Suburbs Satelliteslii &
CALGARY’S NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITIES SEPTEMBER 2011
all in the family NANTON-AREANANTON AREA RRANCHANCH IISS LLIVINGIVING UUPP TTOO ITS FAMOUS PAST BY PAVING A PATH FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE SEE INSIDE
ALSO INSIDE: Boom times for north-central Calgary • Trampoline star putting Airdrie on the map PLUS: Advantages of life in Chestermere • High River • Okotoks • Cochrane • Langdon • and more . . .
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 1 GRAND OPENING
SINGLE FAMILY HOMES YANKEE VALLEY BOULEVARD t t SW St. 8th STARTING FROM THE $350’s HIGHWAY ELIZABETH QUEEN 2 Perched in Airdrie’s southwest side, Hillcrest offers easy access to downtown Calgary, CrossIron Mills shopping centre and a wide TO array of parks and pathways scattered throughout the area. CALGARY Visit www.hillcrestairdrie.com or contact our showhome builders. COUNTRY HILLS BLVD. NE
Excel Homes Shane Homes Trico Homes Contact: Angela Kolewaski Contact: Jeff Brodowski Contact: Neil Donnelly Phone: 403.948.9359 Phone: 403.536.2316 Phone: 403.980.8510 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.excelhomes.ca www.shanehomes.com www.tricohomes.com
2 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 Suburbs Satelliteslili & 2A
CALGARY’S NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITIES SEPTEMBER 2011 DIDSBURY 582
CARSTAIRS all in the family NANTON-AREANANTON AREA RANCH IS LIVING UP TO ITS FAMOUS PAST BY PAVING A PATH FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE 2 SEE INSIDE
ALSO INSIDE: "OOM TIMES FOR NORTH CENTRAL #ALGARY s 4RAMPOLINE STAR PUTTING !IRDRIE ON THE MAP PLUS: !DVANTAGES OF LIFE IN #HESTERMERE s (IGH 2IVER s /KOTOKS s #OCHRANE s ,ANGDON s AND MORE SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 1 AIRDRIE SUBURBS + SATELLITES COCHRANE in this issue is a special advertising 1 1A CHESTERMERE STRATHMORE 04 A7 Ranche 18 Chestermere publication of the Calgary Herald 1 Special Projects Manager: 560 Cross family tradition lives on Community charts its own course, 22 LANGDON at historic Nanton-area ranch. separate from big-city neighbour. Barb Livingstone, 403-235-7339 22X
[email protected] 22 Project Co-ordinator: 08 Airdrie 20 Okotoks OKOTOKS 7 Local trampoline athlete is putting Local women buy into town’s Jamie Zachary, 403-235-7552 2 [email protected] BLACK city on the global gymnastics map. active lifestyle DIAMOND Contributors: HIGH RIVER Wil Andruschak, Estelle Besserer, CAYLEY 14 North-central Calgary 22 High River Suzanne Beaubien, Alex Frazer-Harrison, NANTON City sector offering residents a Shelter is giving abandoned and Shawn Hoult, Carl Patzel, taste of the Prairies, close to home. neglected pets a second chance. Joel Schlesinger and Gerald Vander Pyl Cover photo: Estelle Besserer, STAVELY 16 Cochrane 24 Langdon www.stellarimagery.ca CLARESHOLM Cleanup efforts underway at Once-sleepy hamlet set to undergo former Domtar site in town’s core. its biggest transformation yet.
ADVERTISING FEATURE New Airdrie community on the crest of something special his is one book you can judge by themselves with Airdrie’s many its cover. amenities, though, making even the T Hillcrest, located in southwest short drive to Calgary will be the Airdrie, greets residents with a striking farthest thing from their minds. entrance-way, and welcomes them to Whether residents are looking for a storybook lifestyle within. shopping or recreation, they will find “People feel proud driving in to everything they need just outside their this community and calling it home,” front doors, says Excel Homes area says Shane Homes area manager Jeff manager Angela Kolewaski. Brodowski. The state-of-the-art Genesis Place “Apex has done a fabulous job on recreation centre sits only minutes the entrance-way. It has a substantial northeast of the community, while architectural design, and it flows CrossIron Mills shopping centre lays throughout the community.” just to the south. Inside, residents are treated to an In between lie numerous green almost European style, as homes spaces, parks, pathways and a mix throughout the community feature of quaint shops and large franchise stone and brick accents that complement stores in and around the city. the neighbourhood’s quiet, friendly “It’s the small-town feel with the character. big-town amenities” says Kolewaski. Shane Homes makes up one-third of 1,700 to just under 3,000 square “The land prices are fantastic out here,” “It’s easy access to different points Hillcrest’s all-star builder group, along feet — there’s enough space to fit any says Donnelly. “We’re providing fantastic in Airdrie and in Calgary.” with Trico Homes and Excel Homes. Each lifestyle. value for people who are looking to For more information about Hillcrest, builder offers two different show homes Trico Homes area sales manager upsize.” visit www.hillcrestairdrie.com. to view. Neil Donnelly says one of Hillcrest’s Also playing to Hillcrest’s advantage is For more information about show Between the three builders, prospective largest assets is its value. Homes start its location just a 10-minute drive from homes, contact Excel Homes at 403-948- residents can choose from 45 different just below $360,000 for a house with Calgary. 9359, Shane Homes at 403-536-2316, home designs that range from just over a front attached garage. Once Hillcrest residents acquaint or Trico Homes at 403-980-8510.
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 3 to be continued... From the outside, A7 Ranche near Nanton looks like any other ranch. Yet take a closer look, and you’ll see its owners are making history
Story by Joel Schlesinger Photos by Estelle Besserer
f someone had suggested to Shelley Willson-Cross a few years ago that she would marry an Alberta rancher, she wouldn’t have likely believed it. But as is often the case, life turns out to be much stranger than any fiction we can imagine for ourselves. A little more than four years ago, Willson-Cross — an environmental writer and vegetarian — met her husband John Cross, a descendent of one of the most storied families in Alberta, at a meeting for Southern Alberta Land Trust Society. The society works to preserve the rangelands adjacent to the Eastern Slopes of the Rockies, from Jasper National Park in the north to Waterton National Park in the south. While it might be safe to assume their chance meeting turned out to be another example of how opposites attract, their beliefs shared a lot common ground — literally. “It was a love of the land that brought us together,” says Willson- Cross, 40, who now has, with Cross, two daughters Isabelle, two, and Helena, 15 months.
4 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 Today, Willson-Cross is no longer a vegetarian, but those same values that compelled her to swear off meat — concerns about sustainability, the impact on the land and animal welfare — are still very much alive today in the way she and Cross, 48, live on the A7 Ranche near Nanton, a 40-minute drive south of Calgary. “I was actually a very happy vegetarian for 10 years,” she says. But life on the A7 Ranche is more environmentally friendly than she could ever have imagined. First, the cattle are grass fed. Cross moves them around the 5,200-plus hectares of largely untouched, grassy rangeland to emulate the feeding patterns of the bison, which roamed the prairie grassland more than a century ago. Macleod Trail in Calgary are named after the colonel, And not one chemical has been used on the land in who also had a hand in naming the city itself. Macleod more than 18 years. suggested the fort built near the banks of the Bow River In many ways, not much has changed on the ranch in its in 1875 be named after Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull 125-year history, says Willson-Cross. near his sister’s home in Scotland. “I’m not sure that we’re so old-fashioned, that we’re now As it turned out, A.E. Cross also had a fondness for his cutting-edge, or we’re so cutting-edge that we’re 100 years Scottish roots, naming the A7 Ranche mansion, built in behind, because we haven’t really changed,” she says. 1914, Braehead after family’s ancestral land in Scotland. “This area is ultra-conservative, and we haven’t changed “It was a great, big house with a pool and there were in how we do things.” always lots of people,” says Cross, one of five siblings, On any given day, Cross and his ranch hands, Travis about the nine-bedroom home that still stands today. Lundberg and Tyler Strader, are on horseback working Today, however, Braehead sits empty, largely due to a herd of as many as 2,000 cattle on rolling grassland its high maintenance costs. Living there simply wasn’t against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. affordable, nor was it environmentally sustainable, says It’s a snapshot of a lifestyle that isn’t all that much Willson-Cross. different from when Cross’s grandfather A.E. (Alfred In contrast, the family’s current home is a model of Ernest) Cross founded the ranch near Mosquito Creek in energy efficiency. From afar, the 2,500-square-foot, two- 1886. storey home with four bedrooms and two baths might not A veterinarian, A.E. Cross was born in Montreal and look all that different from other ranch homes in the area. moved to Alberta in 1884 to work on a ranch near But it’s what’s inside the walls that makes it unique. Cochrane. The home is built of straw bales, framed with wood Two years later, he started the A7 Ranche —the ‘A7’ and chicken wire, and both the inside and outside walls brand representing Cross and his six siblings. have a plastered finish, giving the home a New Mexico, “This year is the 125th anniversary of the ranch,” adobe-style appearance. says Willson-Cross. “As far as we know, it’s the longest- “I first heard about straw bale houses about 10 or 12 running ranch in Canada that is still in the hands of the years ago,” says Willson-Cross. original family.” “It sounded a bit far out — but having lived in one, I But A.E. Cross was more than a cattleman, of course. think they’re absolutely the best.” He was a Conservative MLA for Calgary East, and was The most obvious benefit of having a home with walls one of the founding “Big Four” of the Calgary Stampede. roughly 40 centimetres in thickness is energy efficiency. Cross — along with Patrick Burns, George Lane and “It’s nice and warm in the winter and cool in the Archie McLean — came up with $100,000 in 1912 to summer,” says John Cross, who started building it in 1996 finance the first Stampede. and completed in 1998. He also started the Calgary Brewing and Malting Furthermore, straw-bale homes are very fire resistant, Company (later purchased by Molson), and dabbled in resisting temperatures of more than 1,000 C for two the oil and gas and film industries. hours, according to testing by the National Research When he married Helen Macleod in 1899, it turned Council of Canada. out to be the perfect union of influential Alberta families. The home’s straw structure, however, is just one of its Helen’s father was Col. James Macleod, head of the many energy-efficient characteristics. original North West Mounted Police, which later became “It’s off-grid, running off solar and wind almost entirely,” the RCMP. says Willson-Cross, adding it does have a backup generator Both the town of Fort Macleod, south of Calgary, and in the event the home runs out of power. >>
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 5 “Usually what we find is if the sun is shining, it’s not that windy, and if it’s windy, it’s not that sunny. So they tend to off-set each other.” Admittedly, she says, living in an environmentally friendly home does involve some thought with regard to power consumption. “You live in a very organic way — not like living in the city where you can have power whenever you want it.” That means running the dishwasher when the wind is blowing or sun is shining in the morning, rather than later in the day when overall power consumption may be higher. While electricity comes from renewable sources and water comes from a nearby spring, the home and its hot-water tank are heated by propane. What makes the Crosses’ home unique isn’t simply its energy efficiency. On closer inspection, it also has distinct style — a sort of “Hobbit”-like cosiness. daughter from a previous marriage Tanis, 19, currently “Because the walls are so thick — about two feet studying equine science at university, or the couple’s thick — you end up having a lot of neat features to two younger daughters. the house,” says Willson-Cross. “Most people, when renovating or building a house, For example, window ledges are wider and doorways look at how those changes will affect the resale value, are rounded. In fact, most of the home’s walls have but we don’t think that way,” says Willson-Cross. softened edges, giving it a more earth-like, natural “This house never will be sold.” feel than most homes built today, which tend to have Like the rangelands’ native fescue grasses that help straight, hard edges to corners. protect the waters that flow east from the Rockies and John Cross says he poured the concrete floors sustain much of western Canada, the Crosses’ roots himself, using self-levelling concrete. He also in the land are deep — as they are in the surrounding embedded oak strips in the flooring, using them to community. frame off smaller sections, creating a tiled effect. “The holistic philosophy John follows is, every time But the narrow oak framing also made pouring the we make a decision, is it right for us as a family and concrete easier. the other people who are involved, like the ranch-hand “If you had one big area, you’d have to pour the families?” says Willson-Cross. concrete in one go,” he says, adding that would have One of those decisions has been starting an artisan made the floor more susceptible to cracking. beef side business. Cross selects 15 of the best cattle What Cross couldn’t do himself, he hired whenever every year for special-order customers, and sends them possible from the local community. And, of course, to a small processing plant in High River. the preference was, and is, to build with natural and There, the beef is aged for 21 days to enhance durable materials. flavours and custom cut for customers who appreciate Not only is the furniture is made of reclaimed pine, what the ranch is trying to accomplish. built by a local craftsman, but one of the home’s “It’s an art, like making bread,” she says. “You can central pieces, the stone-built, wood-burning fireplace, get factory-made bread or you can get artisan bread.” features a mantel built from a century-old fir tree that The rest of the cattle are typically sent to a feedlot, blew down one year on Cross’s cousin’s property. a result of economic reality, says Willson-Cross. Unsurprisingly, the home has a decidedly western Ideally, she says, the artisan business will grow to the heritage theme to its design and décor — though point where most of the cattle can be grass-finished it does have touches of old-world charm. A and sent to a nearby processor. Swarovski crystal chandelier hangs in the dining room The transition may take decades, but that’s the to “soften the masculine ranch-house effect.” point: developing a business to be sustainable for the One overarching theme that dominates all design long term. choices is longevity. “The land is like any other kind of capital — like “Anything you build tends to stay here a long time,” financial capital,” she says. says John Cross. “I’m using things that my father and The goal is to live off the interest from the capital, grandfather built, and my children will probably use not the capital itself. those things.” “What interests me is finding a better interest rate The hope is the home will be passed from one without hurting the capital,” he says. generation to the next — whether that’s Cross’s “We look after it and it looks after us.”
6 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Your palace awaits at King’s Heights community in Airdrie njoying a royal lifestyle doesn’t have “It’s a very neighbourly community. private ensuites. Ranging in size from 1,383 with the grand opening of its newest show to come at a King’s ransom. You’re always seeing people going for to 1,694 square feet, these charming two- home parade that will feature a laned and E ReidBuilt Homes in the southeast walks with the kids or with the dogs, or storeys and bungalows are priced starting in attached-garage home design. Airdrie community of King’s Heights offers kids riding their bikes,” says ReidBuilt the $280,000s. For more information, call 403-945- an ideal blend of convenience, cost and Homes general sales manager Dave Abbey. Homeowners will enjoy that old-fash- 0997, go online to www.rbhcalgary.com, comfort that can make any home a palace. For the fi rst time in King’s Heights, ioned community feel, sitting on the front or visit the new ReidBuilt Homes show King’s Heights is conveniently located ReidBuilt Homes is offering a selection of veranda, while their cars are safely parked homes at 1195 King’s Heights Rd. just 10 minutes’ drive north of Calgary, laned homes. Six different models are on the rear concrete parking pad. Similar laned home products are now as well as a short hop from the CrossIron available, offering features such as upper- ReidBuilt Homes is displaying two great also available from ReidBuilt Homes in Mills shopping centre. fl oor laundry rooms, main fl oor dens and examples of what is offered in King’s Heights the new Cochrane community of Fireside.
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 7 AIRDRIE
Top of the world Recent honours only the start for local gymnast
Story and photos by Carl Patzel
orissa Boychuk didn’t expect to be immortalized by the time she turned 21. C But that’s exactly what’s happened just seven years and several gold medals into an impressive trampoline career. The Airdrie acrobatic expert recently bounced into local athletic history, being honoured with a spot on the city’s new Elite Athlete Program tribute wall alongside luger Eric Pothier, arm wrestler Darrell Belyk and fellow gymnast — her twin brother, Zach, plays for the NHL’s AIRDRIE Janelle Desmarais-Moen. Carolina Hurricanes — Boychuk jumped at a glance “It’s a huge honour. I feel very supported around a few sports as a youngster before by the community to be nominated for that settling on gymnastics. and getting that plaque up on the wall,” says “I started figure skating when I could walk, Boychuk of the glass plaque at the Genesis and also did dance when I was very young. It Place recreation complex. wasn’t until I was about 10 when I started doing “Young gymnasts are walking by that all the gymnastics,” she says. Population: As of the 2011 census, time. I just hope to inspire a lot more people.” Since then, Boychuk has thrived in the sport, Airdrie had 43,155 residents. The double-mini trampoline specialist, who notably winning gold at the 2007 Location: 32 kilometres north of downtown trains out of the Airdrie Edge Gymnastics Club, World Age Group Championships and bronze Calgary on the Queen Elizabeth 2 Highway. is no stranger to fame. at the 2009 World Championships. Online: www.airdrie.com Competing on the international scene since Boychuk credits a lot of her success with the 2007, the fourth-year senior national team professional bond that she’s formed with coach Most competitors in the tumbling arena hope member has captured several first and second- Jamie Atkin. Since meeting at that first summer to peak at world championships where the best place finishes in double mini trampoline camp, the duo have built a strong relationship display their talents on the trampoline. Boychuk competitions, culiminating most recently with both on and off the tumbling floor. is no different. gold at the 2010 world championships in Metz, “He’s not only a coach. He’s a physiotherapist, “In our sport, the world championships is France. he’s a psychologist — he does everything for more important (than the Olympics where only “It definitely is the highlight so far,” says us,” says Boychuk. two individuals from each country compete). Boychuk, who more recently captured gold “He’s very good at differentiating between “You see a huge range of excellence when you at both the Canada Cup and Canadian athletes and knowing what they need. He’s like go to world championships.” Championships in double mini trampoline. another kind of father figure in my life as well.” In a sport where athletes are still competing “It’s a constant struggle back and forth — While the sport has vaulted Boychuk around at a high level into their 30s, the relatively young hope to make the national team for individual you win some you lose some. Just everything the globe — including Russia, Spain, Portugal, Boychuk can only guess at where she’ll be several trampoline so I can go to the Olympics. happened to come together for world Taiwan and Africa — her eyes are now firmly years from now. “Being honoured already (is great). I’ve been championships.” set on Birmingham, England, host of the 2011 “I’ve reached a lot of my goals so far and doing this sport for my eighth season, and I feel Raised by a family that’s no srranger to sports world championships in November. I have a lot more to go,” says Boychuck. “I like I’ve just begun.”
8 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 On the local level, Airdrie Transit operates morning and afternoon trips into Calgary. AIRDRIE three weekday fixed routes connecting every “We’re looking at opportunities to expand corner of Airdrie’s residential and commercial the regional service into Calgary from just the sectors. It also provides a “dial-a-bus” service peak times in the morning and afternoon to which operates evenings and Saturdays. something during mid-day or even the eve- But what has put Airdrie Transit on the ning,” says MacIsaac. Easy rider map is the recently introduced ICE regional While early response to services like ICE service between Airdrie and Calgary. is encouraging, MacIsaac admits it will take Launched in October 2010, the service time to change residents’ thinking. Airdrie Transit paving a saw its ridership grow from 433 in that first “The transit culture is going to take month to 4,384 this past June. time for all the communities in the Calgary path for others to follow Ridership is also up from 3,427 in May region,” he says. after changes suggested by a rider survey came “We’re first out of the gate, but once you Story and photo by Carl Patzel into effect. That included adding a direct see the Cochranes, Okotoks, Strathmores express route to downtown Calgary, and a come online with transit, we’re all going to irdrie Transit has your ticket to ride. park-and-ride lot located at the Ron Ebbesen have the same growing pains in terms of Sporting a new fleet of comfort- Arena in Airdrie. people leaving their cars in the driveway.” A able, air-conditioned buses, the Local transit ridership also steadily To that end, Airdrie Transit is looking to service has come a long way since its humble increased since last October when 1,780 hit the future by targeting younger riders. one-bus days before the early 2000s boom the buses. In June, transit averaged 130 riders “They are probably one of the more under- struck this city of 40,000-plus. per day, for 2,650 in the month. served demographics in terms of transporta- “Our service has really evolved over the “We see more of a growth with the region- tion alternatives,” he says. “We’re a young city past 10 years,” says Airdrie Transit co- al ICE service than we do with the local,” and there’s plenty of opportunity for us to ordinator Chris MacIsaac (pictured). says MacIsaac. “Part of that is due to market target that segment.” “We started with a single bus operating demand. People are looking at their alterna- As the city grows, so will Airdrie Transit, on a dial-a-bus service. Then we moved to tives to go into Calgary, and our services have adds MacIsaac. A recent annexation will even- a fixed route schedule within the city. Then seen the benefits of that.” tually double the size of the city, with contin- last October, we brought the ICE (Inter-City The ICE service employs three new low- ual residential and commercial expansion and Express) service online.” floor, accessible buses with 30-minute peak new communities coming on stream in 2012. Best Selection of Lots Available In Phase I
$ * Homes in Hillcrest starting from 360,000 *Price includes home, lot and GST. Prices subject to change without notice.
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SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 9 AIRDRIE
welcomed more than 10,000 new residents city’s growth process, says Mayor Peter Brown. since 2006, making the city one of Canada’s “We’ve had some pretty dramatic growth over On the fastest-growing municipalities. the last little while. The annexation allows our To accommodate the growth, the City planners — working in conjunction with our of Airdrie recently completed annexation citizens, who ultimately have the final say — to negotiations that will add 4,800 hectares to the design the city of the future,” says Brown. move city limits — effectively doubling its size. Adding to that challenge is a population “We grew a lot faster then we anticipated,” growth of between five to eight per cent over Annexed land to says Airdrie senior planner Naren Garg. the past five years, and a 2011 projection of double city’s size “(Council and planners are) realizing that over 40,000 residents. incremental annexations have not been as “When you grow as quickly as we did, I don’t effective as going after a long-term growth think everybody kept up,“ says Brown. Story and photo by Carl Patzel window of 50 years.” “From that perspective it’s really important The projected maps show growth in every to be proactive and more strategic with your ike many families moving to Airdrie over direction of Airdrie city limits, except the relationships with the province and Rocky View the past five years, Tara and Nick Jerred southern borders. County so that we’re working together and we’re Lwere looking for a connection when they Land annexed in 2003, 1,100 hectares’ not reacting to things.” set down roots in Airdrie earlier this spring worth, was quickly gobbled up by developers, Quality of life and retaining the smaller- “We wanted more of a smaller-town and prompted several unforeseen infrastructure community elements is a priority for the city, atmosphere,” says Tara. The Jerreds moved to challenges, says Garg. adds Brown. He notes they are attempting to the northwest Airdrie area in May, with son “We’re still the lowest staffed municipality per erase Airdrie’s “bedroom community” sticker, Brendan, 6, and daughter Kylie, 3. capita in our mid-size city group,” he notes. “All while designing a place where residents can live, “We’re hoping it will be more friendly than that is a result of us not having enough time to work and play. what Calgary is turning into — that we will get catch up and not having a large enough timing “I don’t see us growing to 75,000 anytime to know our neighbours better.” window to put the pieces in place.” soon, so we’re still going to retain that small- The Jerreds are not alone. Airdrie has Looking ahead, public input is essential in the town feel,” says Brown.
ADVERTISING FEATURE Luxury comes home at Cooper’s Crossing in Airdrie omeowners’ dreams of buying with additional living in loft space, and custom-made homes to suit both still have room for spacious backyard. Htheir lifestyles and personalities Also available are move-up homes, are closer than you think. starting from the $400,000s on lots up At Cooper’s Crossing in Airdrie, home- to 42 feet wide, also available in two owners can unlock the door to a luxuri- different styles: ous home and a premier community, • Front Garage: Featuring a wide located just a 10-minute drive north of choice of lots that back onto either park Calgary. or paved rear lane. With a double garage “As Airdrie’s premier community, in the front plus rear-lane access, these this is where you’ll fi nd the fi nest homes homes are ideal for those wanting a sec- in the city,” says Paul Gerla, general ond garage/workshop or backyard space. manager, WestMark Holdings Ltd., which • Rear Garage: Featuring a beautiful is developing Cooper’s Crossing. turn-of-the-century look with wide front “People visiting the area fi rst notice porches. Large lots provide enough space the unusually charming homes lining for a triple garage and a big backyard. the streets and the tremendous amount Cooper’s Crossing is located mere of lush park space.” footsteps from shopping and Chinook The 130-hectare community, located Winds recreation area, which features a on a gentle hillside in southwest Aird- huge skateboard park, baseball dia- rie, has recently added 148 lots in four monds, playground and a soon-to-open different home styles, all which can be splash park. custom-built to suit a buyer’s preference. Within Cooper’s Crossing itself are Remarkably, none of the 148 lots will open spaces, scenic ponds, active play- back directly on to other homes. • Estate Front Garage: The most street of classic estate homes, all facing a grounds and two future school sites, all Included are estate homes, starting prestigious address in Airdrie, with all central park. Rear-lane access, combined linked by a network of lush park trails. from the $700,000s on lots up to 56 feet lots backing onto green space or water. with large lots, allows the fl exibility to For more information, visit wide, in two styles: • Estate Rear Garage: An exclusive build triple car or carriage-style garages www.cooperscrossing.ca.
10 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ARTIGIANO
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 11 ADVERTISING FEATURE Affordable north-central Calgary living is now within reach iving in north-central Calgary has property in the northwest, and be near to Residents are never more than a few foot- Landmark Homes, Morrison/Discovery never been more affordable for more family or friends who already call the area steps away from numerous recreation areas Homes and WestView Builders. Lhomeowners thanks to the growing home. including fi ve ponds in the community. In addition, Calbridge Homes will have community of EvansRidge. The initial phase in EvansRidge will cater Shopping amenities are also within two show homes on The Ridge, The latest neighbourhood by Dundee to different price points and lifestyles, with reach, including Creekside Shopping EvansRidge’s exclusive estate home Developments also represents the com- 200 front-drive homes, 98 lane homes, 69 Centre and Beacon Hill Centre. neighbourhood. A grand opening for pany’s fi rst in northwest Calgary, zero-lot-line homes and 40 townhomes. A show home parade in EvansRidge in- The Ridge takes place Sept. 17. While many northwest communities only Homes start in the low $300,000s. cludes nine models by Birchwood Homes, For more information, including cater to a few types of buyers, EvansRidge EvansRidge was also designed with north- Genesis Builders Group, Homes By Avi/ directions and show home hours, was designed to allow more people to own west Calgary’s wide-open spaces in mind. Avi Mix n Match, Innovations by Jayman, visit www.lifeontheridge.ca.
Where Families Grow Come and See Why Life is Better on the Ridge
Evanston Dr. NW Centre St. From innovative starter homes to walkout executive estates, hours of family enjoyment. You will find shopping centres Symons Evanspark Blvd. NW the Northwest community of EvansRidge offers several within a short drive and easy access to the entire city. Symons Valley Parkway Valley Road unique home styles from eight premier builders. A wide choice Put down roots with your family in a neighbourhood that of schools, from elementary through to high school is offers the perfect balance between the invigorating energy of Stoney Trail NW Beddington nearby and convenient. Parks and playgrounds provide the city and the tranquility of nature right at your back door. Stoney Trail NW homes from the low $ Country Hills Blvd. NW Trail NW 300’s
lifeontheridge.ca 403.245.3515
12 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Calgarians’ dream homes arrive at Skyview Ranch t’s time for you to Arrive at your dream home. I Located in one of Calgary’s fastest- growing suburbs, Arrive at Skyview Ranch offers a mix of single- and two-car garage town homes. But there’s more to the community than just quality construction. It also gives owners the peace of mind that they’ve bought a home built to the highest environmental standards. “All of the townhomes at Arrive are Built Green-enrolled at a Gold standard,” flooring options, design features such as says Partners Development Group Ltd. rounded corners, and a built-in fireplace president Greg Gutek. and entertainment centre package. “We’ve focused our homes on being “Above the mantel, there’s room for environmentally friendly, with energy- a flat-screen TV to be mounted, and saving fixtures.” we have cabinets with shelving units — For example, every townhome uses a perfect for setting up a place to entertain, heat-recovery ventilation unit to heat the or watch TV. home more efficiently, while maintaining Townhomes also come with large, high air-quality standards. The homes are enclosed decks — a perfect vantage point built airtight, with no heat leakage during for a planned on-site park area with tot lot. the winter. Homeowners are even eligible Skyview Ranch is located just off Metis for government-sponsored rebates of Trail, which provides fast connections between $1,500 and $3,000, says Gutek. to Stoney Trail and the CrossIron Mills Additional standard features include shopping area to the north. A southbound Energy Star appliances, high-efficiency connection is scheduled to open soon, furnaces and water heaters, low-flow which will give direct access to 36 Street faucets, low-E windows, spray-foam N.E. and all of its services. insulation and dual-flush toilets. Prices start at $249,900 for single-car “With these energy ratings and other garage models. Double-car garage models innovations, for our buyers, the long- start at $269,900. term operating costs will be lower than a Homes are offered as bareland condos, standard home,” says Gutek. with condo fees of only $135 per month, “I don’t think any of our competitors Gutek says. are doing things to this level — we’re The first showhome at Arrive is now putting a big capital investment into these open for viewing at 118 Skyview Ranch homes.” Rd. N.W. Hours are 2 to 8 p.m. weekdays, The message seems to be getting out noon to 5 p.m. weekends (closed holidays). there. Two more show homes will be opening “Our first phase is 71 per cent sold; soon — watch for the grand opening we’ve got a few new units left, and we’re celebration this fall. offering builder incentives,” says Gutek. For more information, visit arrivehome. Those incentives include hardwood ca, or call 403-264-8963.
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 13 Go north, young man! Calgary’s north-central corridor is booming, as homeowners seek prairie comfort closer to home SKYVIEW RANCH SHERWOOD Access to the community is via Metis Trail from Country Hills Touted as “legendar Story by Gerald Vander Pyl y Boulevard in the south or Stoney Trail in the north. Sherwood has historic- Photo (main) by Gerald Vander Pyl; inset by Calgary Herald t The epitome of Big Sky Country, SkyView Ranch has views homes clustered around of the mountains and city skyline in the distance. It is the first a high hill topped by a t’s a beautiful fall evening in Calgary, and the Bruce family is s residential development in an area that will also include major Several ravines in the enjoying the fine weather with a jog along the pathways in the h employment centres. home sites also back on north-central community of Kincora. t I Arts and Crafts-style architectural guidelines are in place for the Already well establishe Two-and-a-half-year-old Jacob is running alongside mom Melissa, d mix of front-drive and laned homes, along with semi-detached Sherwood’s Beacon Heig who keeps a slow pace, while dad David brings up the rear with a h and multifamily townhome developments. community offers additi stroller in case little legs get tired. o As two-year residents of the area, the Bruces say they love the small Access is currently via Shaganappi Trail north oe community where they live, with its quiet roads and lack of traffic. f David adds they also enjoy the walking paths, and actually live alongside a large pond and environmental reserve. Melissa, meanwhile, says they still have lots of shopping nearby, and found a great day care in the Creekside Shopping Centre. The opening of Stoney Trail was also a great addition, say the Bruces. The family regularly heads out to the mountains, and the northwest leg of the new ring road puts them on the highway travelling west in only 10 minutes. The Bruces are among a growing number of people who are flocking to new communities springing up like prairie grass in north-central Calgary, a region of rolling hills, mountain views, and vast prairie grasslands. Developers and homebuilders are also embracing the region by creating communities that appeal to a wide range of buyers and budgets. For Dundee Developments, its new community of EvansRidge SAGE HILL, SAGE MEADOWS was the first for the company in north Calgary. While the company has historically focused on Calgary’s west side, Located west and east, respectively, of Symons the quality of the land available led it to purchase more than 242 Valley Road north of Stoney Trail, Sage Hill is EVANSTON, EVAN defined by rolling hills and mountain views. Sage hectares in north-central Calgary, with the 62 hectares of EvansRidge EVANSRIDGE its first development in the area, says Dundee marketing co-ordinator Meadows, meanwhile, has eight ponds and West Nose Creek running through the community. Located just north of Sto Cheryl Heilman. via Symons Valley Road, the North-central Calgary embodies the land of the Prairies, with its A naturalized pond in Sage Hill is linked to neighbourhoods made up of single-family homes, communities rise from prair wide-open spaces, big-sky feeling and spectacular unobstructed west alongside West Nose Creek views, says Heilman. duplexes and future multi-family development. With its abundant water, Sage Meadows offers slope to a ridge with imposi EvansRidge, foe example, offers easy access to grassland and ponds mountains. bordering West Nose Creek Valley, as well as to Prairie history with a the unique opportunity of estate homes backing on to either a pond or creek. The varied terrain is dotte former buffalo jump right in the community. naturalized ponds and parks With access to many north-central communities via Stoney Trail, connect the communities. there are also plenty of amenities for residents nearby. Creekside Boasting a broad selection Shopping Centre is just down the road, with CrossIron Mills, estate, the Evanston area off Beacon Hill and Deerfoot Outlet Mall all in close proximity. from apartment-style condo Here’s a look at some of the new communities in north-central townhomes to starter homes Calgary: estate homes. 14 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 y living” by its developer, themed home styling with green spaces and parks, and sandstone lookout. hilly community mean many to natural areas. d with single-family homes, hts community-within-a- onal opportunities. either Sarcee Trail or f Stoney Trail.
NSVIEW,
ney Trail ese three ie grasslands KINCORA up the valley One of Calgary’s first north-central communities, ing views of the Kincora wears its Celtic theme proudly with a signature 80-foot tower and stone wall at its entrance. ed with Accessed from Symons Valley Road north of Stoney s, while pathways Trail, Kincora has a six-hectare water feature and environmental reserve at the centre of the community, n of real linked with area pathways. fers everything The final phases of development are selling with miniums and front-drive-garage single-family homes and s, move-ups and townhomes, some of which back onto a ravine.
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 15 COCHRANE
Cleaning house Remediating former Domtar land underway Story and photos by Gerald Vander Pyl
magine if an area the size of 20 city blocks in downtown Calgary were Iunsuitable for development due to contamination. That’s the situation the Town of Cochrane A concept plan for the area is expected to go has faced for more than two decades, as a site to town council for consideration this month. that once housed a wood-preserving plant has McBride says the south portion of the site sat unused and in the way of the community’s will include a traditional “power centre,” with downtown expansion retailers including a Wal-Mart store. Yet now, residents and the local business The northern portion will be more community are looking forward to a new creative, with streetscapes perhaps similar future for the area, following a massive to Calgary’s Stephen Avenue, featuring cleanup project expected to be completed boutiques and restaurants, wide sidewalks by this fall. and the potential for residential housing on Cochrane Mayor Truper McBride says third or fourth levels. development of the remediated land will be The Cochrane Sustainability Plan has been a guiding force in planning for the former the largest single economic expansion in the It’s not very common for a municipality to be able to go back town’s history, and provides a chance to do Domtar lands, with its emphasis on transit, something “really interesting and great for mixed use and the creation of a walkable and plan and put in place the downtown that they want. the community.” community. “This is really a remarkable opportunity “A lot of the directions of the area, including Banff, Canmore, Sundre, Bragg COCHRANE that we have,” says McBride. “It’s not very sustainability plan are going to be strongly Creek, Springbank, Bearspaw and the west at a glance common for a municipality to be able to go reflected in this concept plan,” he says. end of Calgary, says Foy. back and plan and put in place the downtown As part of roadway plans to link the new In addition, as more choice in products that they want.” area to the existing downtown, council will be and services becomes available in Cochrane, The 18-hectare site across the railway looking at creating separated bicycle lanes on more of the local shopping dollar should stay tracks from Cochrane’s historic downtown downtown streets, a rarity in the core of in the community rather than gravitating to core was used by Domtar Corporation from a municipality. Calgary. Population: 15,424 (Alberta Municipal the 1960s to mid-1980s for a facility that The local business community is looking “Shopping locally is always important to Affairs, 2010). treated railway ties with creosote and other forward to the redevelopment of the Domtar smaller communities like Cochrane,” he says. Location: Junction of highways 1A and petroleum-based products. site, says Cochrane and District Chamber of With transportation planning a key 22, 18 kilometres northwest of Calgary. With parts of the site heavily Commerce president Richard Foy. ingredient of the new development, Foy says Online: www.cochrane.ca contaminated, it was only in 2007 that new ”Although it is still too early to know it is important that traffic is allowed to flow owners of the property began planning for a exactly which businesses will locate to the in a way that does not inadvertently create cleanup and eventual development. site, the consensus is that this development limits on local business activity. “It is essential that historical downtown, The project is currently moving along will be good for the local business “The business community would like to see Fifth Avenue, Railway Street the west end well, and the town should be able to start community,” he says. transportation designs that will allow both and other areas that will develop over time all constructing deep utilities by the end of The new business is expected to attract vehicle and pedestrian traffic to move easily share in the economic revival that seems to be 2011, says McBride. “consumer shopping” dollars from a wide among the various business areas in Cochrane. coming to our business community.” 16 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Extraordinary is a way of life at Heritage Hills in Cochrane he Cochrane community of Trico’s staples with soaring ceilings, as Heritage Hills is giving homeowners well as a kitchen that opens onto a nook Tthe opportunity to make the unique and great room, all of which is brightly beauty of the Alberta foothills part of lit by a wall of six 24-x-60-inch picture their everyday lives. windows. Airy eight-foot doors further Located on the north side of Cochrane, highlight the size of the space. Heritage Hills is everything life in The show home also features a southern Alberta should be. The nearby finished basement with a large games Rockies fill the horizon, the town room, bedroom and bathroom, below is brimming with small-town All of Trico’s homes have been charm, recreational opportunities wait designed to match the beauty that around every corner and all the big-city surrounds them, which is no easy task. amenities sit mere minutes away. Along with the mountains just a short While Heritage Hills brings residents drive to the west and the Bow River closer to some of the world’s most only a few minutes walk to the south, beautiful wide-open spaces, it also the community of Heritage Hills provides homeowners with plenty of is peppered with green space and space of their own. The large homes sit pathways that accentuate the beauty on even larger lots, with ample space variety of homes to choose from. well as standard hardwood and tile floors. of the area. surrounding homes that range from Models include two-storey homes, One of the most stunning of Trico’s For more information visit 1,425 to 2,550 square feet. bungalows and even large homes with models is now being showcased as the www.tricohomes.com or www. Trico Homes currently has 27 lots detached rear garages. And because of developer’s new Heritage Hills show heritagehillscochrane.com. available for purchase in the highly the landscape, many lots are also able to home. Prospective homebuyers are To see first-hand what Heritage Hills sought-after community, with pricing offer walkout basements. invited to visit the new Fairmont show has to offer, visit the new Trico show starting as low as $359,961. In total, Trico Homes has 18 different home, which was officially unveiled home open Mondays to Thursdays from For those who want to make the models to choose from. All models offer nine- earlier this month. 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and most of their space, Trico offers a foot ceilings, huge windows, open designs, as The Fairmont design highlights all of holidays from noon to 5 p.m.
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SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 17 CHESTERMERE
Go your own way Town charts path distinct from big-city neighbour
Story and photo by Paula Trotter
inding itself at a crossroads familiar to many of Calgary’s growing Fsatellite communities, the town of Chestermere has decided its best course is one charted alone. Over the last several years, local administrators have been aggressively rebranding this once-sleepy lakefront community as one where residents can live, play, eat, shop and even work. That’s no easy task, considering more than 90 per cent of the town’s workforce We recognize how close we are to Calgary, and our residents CHESTERMERE makes the brief daily community into have told us that they don’t want to be part of the city. at a glance Calgary. “We recognize how close we are to Calgary, but our residents have firmly shops and retail services. don’t lose our identity as we grow. We want told us that they don’t want to be part of A health centre on the southeast end to maintain that small-town feel.” the city,” says Mayor Patricia Matthews. of Chestermere is slated to open by the Andrew Marriott, pictured, has “So we’ve created an identity that is end of 2012. experienced first-hand Chesteremere’s Population: 14,285 (2010, municipal synonymous with serenity — it’s that The centre will offer local residents recent boom. census). Alberta oasis feel.” community health care, after-hours services, Marriott moved to the community Location: Trans-Canada Highway, about The town started its re-branding exercise a laboratory and retail outlets including a seven years ago to operate a Tim Hortons 18 kilometres east of downtown Calgary. three years ago to, “start with a fresh pharmacy. franchise, which opened its doors just over Online: www.chestermere.ca approach after years of booming growth,” Plans are also in motion for light five years ago. says Matthews. industrial and commercial development to While he agrees with Matthews “In the last decade, we’ve gone from a begin within town limits next year, says that the town needs to focus on town of roughly 3,000 to about 15,000. In Matthews. business development, he also believes growth for the area. the last decade, everything’s changed year “To maintain our own identity, we administrators must not lose sight of the “With business like that comes after year.” need to be as sustainable as possible fact that local recreational opportunities hotels, comes restaurants, comes more Once just a recreational community, and not rely on other centres for some will continue to be a driving force in the opportunities for jobs for people to Chestermere now boasts a growing business our basic amenities and needs,” community’s future plans. be working in town here, and to make base and park development, both of which she says. Chestermere remains a marquee site Chestermere self-sustaining,” he says, started taking off about five years ago, “We’re well on our way with that now, for a number of recreational events and adding he would also like to see other notes the mayor. but each step we can take toward festivals year-round, he notes. amenities such as hotels, insurance Chestermere also features a well- that whole sustainability allows us to have Marriott believes a recreational sports agencies and a registry in the community. established town centre and three separate more control over our identity. complex would attract additional events, “We don’t want to be a crutch onto commercial areas that include restaurants, “We (also) want to make sure that we and spur a “trickle effect” of positive Calgary.”
18 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Luxuries match the lifestyle at Chestermere Station lose to all the amenities you could Chestermere itself is very much a lifestyle The development will include a variety Six units have been designed to be need but with the relaxing lifestyle community, says Slokker president Peter of townhome building styles ranging from barrier free in order to accommodate less Cof a lake community, Chestermere Paauw. It is big enough to have the desired 830 to 1,310 square feet in size, with two- mobile occupants. Station is everything homeowners are amenities, but still small enough to main- and three-bedroom units starting in price The town of Chestermere is located looking for, and then some. tain the sense of community. from $189,900 to $279,900. a short drive east of Calgary, while the The latest townhome development by In keeping with the Chestermere look, In total, Chestermere Station will include nearby Stoney Trail ring road provides Slokker Canada West will boast a great Chestermere Station will adhere to a 246 units, most featuring single-car ga- quick access to points west and north. location in the heart of Chestermere, near heritage building style that includes varied rages. Townhomes will have contemporary Interested buyers can view fl oor town hall, and footsteps from shopping colours and design touches such as stone interior detailing and fi nishes and open plans and fi nd further information at and the lake. elements. fl oor plans. www.chestermerestation.com.
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 19 OKOTOKS
Ride of their lives Local women always up for the challenge
Story by Suzanne Beaubien Photo by Wil Andruschak
f Joanne Laliberte had been told she’d be competing in triathlons a few years after Igiving birth to her twin boys in 2007, she would have shaken her head in disbelief. After all, she didn’t own a bike, couldn’t swim and had never competed in such an event. But after moving to Okotoks from Grande Prairie three years ago, Laliberte (pictured right) quickly realized nearly everyone she saw in this writer and mother of eight-year-old twins who active community was out running. And if she runs half-marathons. OKOTOKS wanted to make new friends, she’d just have to “But knowing that the ladies are waiting and at a glance tie on some sneakers and join them. we’re going to go for a bike ride — it’s that “In less than a year, I learned how to swim, accountability.” I got a bike and I started running,” recalls And while these women can count on their Laliberte, who also has an eight-year-old team members to keep them motivated on a daughter. “I did the triathlon on a $100 long ride, as moms — a whopping four of department-store bike — and I didn’t do bad. them have twins — they also know family Population: 23,201 (2010, Alberta I placed 11th in my first triathlon.” comes first, says Deb Zelez (pictured centre), Municipal Affairs). Since then, Laliberte has competed in a who also has eight-year-old twins. She works Location: Junction of Highways 2A and 7, number of running races, sprint triathlons and in Calgary a few days a week doing cardiac 23 kilometres south of Calgary. the epic 225-kilometre Ride to Conquer Cancer rehabilitation. Online: www.okotoks.ca (after finally buying herself a real road bike). “The really cool thing about our team is And all of it was possible because she did it when one of us says, ‘You know what, I need to “You don’t achieve anything by making with a training group of like-minded women be a mom tonight. My kids need me,’ we’re all excuses,” Evans says. who say they motivate each other to attain goals like, ‘That’s OK. Totally cool.’” Zelez, meanwhile, has been a Type 1 diabetic they never thought possible — at the same time Still, those times when they just want to curl for 30 years. She wears an insulin pump and they’re giving back to the community. up on the couch are probably the times when trained for her first half-marathon pushing her Mostly recent transplants to Okotoks, these they need a workout the most, they say, and twins in a double-stroller. women now find it nearly impossible to make their friends won’t let them forget it. Today she leads a running group with 15 excuses or put off running, even though the In fact, if they were looking for a team name, members — many of them moms who only them two years and my pancreas still doesn’t dozen of them all lead busy lives in this popular “No Excuses” would be an apt one. started running after she met them on the work. So I’m signing them all up for Team community. “I work full time, I have two kids. I just make playground. Diabetes and we’re running the half-marathon.” “If I didn’t have a goal and I didn’t have it work,” says Tammy Evans (pictured left), a Her team members have decided that next She’s not worried anyone will balk at the someone waiting for me at 7 a.m. on a mom of two girls, 14 and 4, who regularly runs year they will take on a new challenge, and challenge: “Those girls can get you up any hill. Saturday morning when it was -20 C, I duathlons and has competed in the Ride to Zelez already has plans for the ladies. They’re just such strong, committed people. wouldn’t get out of bed,” says Elena Aitken, a Conquer Cancer three times. “I’ve told them that they owe me — I’ve given They’re some of the strongest girls I know.”
20 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Golf-course living is a lot closer than you think You don’t need to move to Arizona to enjoy quiet community living on the edge of a gorgeous golf course. The Lakes of Muirfield, located east of Calgary, offers the kind of peaceful living many Albertans have been looking for at a reasonable price. The Lakes of Muirfield is a small, idyllic community in Lyalta, located north of the Trans-Canada Highway halfway between Chestermere and Strathmore. The prestigious community is built around the Muirfield Lakes Golf Club, which features both a scenic and challenging course, as well as a clubhouse that has become a central amenity for residents. “The course owners have taken our vision for the golf facility and exceeded our expectations,” says developer Jimmy Souza. “If you’re a golfer and you’re going out for a golf experience, that is the course you want to walk.” The first phase of the 700-lot community offers a variety of single- family homes. Roughly 100 lots are currently available, including many backing onto either the golf course or the canal that wanders through the community. The soon-to-be-unveiled second phase will also offer a selection of attached villa homes. Homes ranging in price from the low $300,000s to the $600,000s. While many are already enjoying the Lakes of Muirfield’s quiet lifestyle, inter- est is at an all-time high this fall as the community gets ready to open its new show home parade. The parade will celebrate its grand opening this October, and will feature products from community builders Ribero Homes, Douglas Homes, Today’s Homes and Compass Rose. For more information about The Lakes Of Muirfield, call 403-934-4778 ext 3, go online to www.lakesofmuirfield.com or e-mail [email protected]
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 21 HIGH RIVER
New lease on life Animal rescue centre gives pets second chance Story by Alex Frazer-Harrison Photo by Wil Andruschak
hen Kim Hessel moved to High River in the late 1990s, it was to Wgive herself a fresh start. Instead, the founder of the Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue Foundation ended up giving that fresh start to hundreds of stray and abandoned cats and dogs who otherwise might have died in the fields or been euthanized. Hessel (pictured left) was inspired to get involved by news of an animal-abuse case that occurred in High River in 1999. I have seen a lot of animals getting re-homed, and it really HIGH RIVER “I’d been working in the city and I had a at a glance cat, a couple of dogs, but I didn’t realize what gives them a second chance at life. the issues were. “I realized after reading about the (case) Hessel has since expanded her operations always need help,” she says as she holds in a local newspaper that there were no into a storefront adoption centre in High Mossleigh (pictured), a dog given that name resources here; nobody was doing cat rescue. River at 119 Eighth Ave. S.E. because he was recovered near that town. So, Heaven Can Wait started because of that She also purchased more than three Megan Lievaart (pictured left), meanwhile, need.” hectares of land south of the town for is in her fourth summer with Heaven Can Population: 11,783 (2010 town census), Hessel, originally from Montreal and Room to Run Boarding Kennels which houses Wait. Location: Junction of Highways 2, 2A formerly in the radio business, started some 200 cats and dogs, many once from “I have always loved animals — I came out and 23, 48 kilometres south of Calgary. running the organization out of a small Heaven Can Wait. and never left,” she says with a laugh. Online: www.highriver.ca house in High River where she’d take in dogs Hessel’s work takes her to many “I have seen a lot of animals getting and cats that were strays, abused, feral or communities in the area that do not have re-homed, and it really gives them a second abandoned. animal rescue services — communities such chance at life. At family dinners, people are from different levels of government that will “We had 30 cats the first week — we as Blackie, Turner Valley and Longview. constantly asking me, ‘Who did you save allow her to build a low-cost spay/neuter worked as an alternative to euthanizing,” she Hessel works with the MD of Foothills, today?’” clinic on a corner of her Room to Run says. and the towns of High River and Okotoks to The process of adopting out cats and property. Once Heaven Can Wait finds a dog or cat, handle bylaw dogs — “If they have a stray or dogs is not quick, and that’s intentional, says “We’re looking at what funding might efforts are made to identify the owner and a dog running at large, they can bring the dog Hessel. be available from the Town of High River, return the animal if identification is available. to me. We will do anything we can to find the “We help people choose the right animal. province, MD — for me, that’s the ultimate If this is unsuccessful, or if the animal never owner,” says Hessel. I make people work for it because I want the answer,” she says. “That’s our big goal of the had an owner to begin with, Hessel runs an Volunteers are the lifeblood of Heaven dogs and cats to get good home — and we future.” adoption program that finds homes for as Can Wait, and Hessel seems to attract long- always do follow-ups.” For more information about Heaven many of her charges as possible. timers, such as eight-year veteran Mikaela The need for animal rescue is greater than Can Wait Animal Rescue Foundation, visit Unfortunately, demand for Hessel’s services Benn (pictured centre), who started when ever, making spaying and neutering vital, says heavencanwait.ca or call 403-601-2520. has never abated, as more dogs and cats have she was 10. Hessel. For information on Room to Run Boarding been found over the years that needed homes. “It’s just the constant need — animals She is currently exploring funding options Kennels, call 403-652-5002. 22 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Discover the simpler life at Montrose community in High River scape the big city and discover life’s River, and features a 6.5-hectare (16-acre) tom Homes and Westview Builders, with starting in the $240,000s, as well as a new simpler joys in the quiet community pond and fi ve new tennis courts that opened prices starting from the mid-$300,000s. retirement living project by Statesman Eof Montrose in High River, only a in July. A new Co-op grocery store, liquor On Montrose Terrace, Lifestyle Homes is called the Manor Village at High River. short 25-minute drive south of Calgary. store and gas bar are under construction. building estate homes on 50-foot walkout For more information, call 403-245-3515, An idyllic neighbourhood with beautiful Montrose offers a variety of homes at lots that back on to green space and a pond. visit escapethecity.ca or the new social me- mountain views, Montrose has amenities different price points, including entry-level Homes start from the mid-$400,000s. dia site at www.escapethecity.ca/treasure. that are out of the ordinary, and home homes, move-ups, estate homes and even Buyers can also purchase a lot direct from Show home hours are Monday to Thurs- selection that is extraordinary. retirement living homes. Dundee and choose their own builder. day, from 2 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday The master-planned community by Dundee Three show home parades are available. Phase 2 of Montrose includes The Mu- and holidays, noon to 5 p.m.; and closed Developments is self-contained within High The fi rst features homes by Crossley Cus- rals townhomes by Evolution (Greenboro) Fridays.
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SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 23 LANGDON Changing landscape Biggest transformation yet for growing hamlet
Story and photo by Paula Trotter
ake a snapshot of Langdon, because this once sleepy hamlet is set to Tundergo a series of changes that will forever change its landscape. A revitalized Main Street, a new elementary school and a possible residential community are reshaping this community of 3,500-plus located 16 kilometres west of Calgary. “Langdon is at a pivotal point, and it’s It’s really going to start to be recognized more like a LANGDON really going to start to be recognized more at a glance like a Chestermere or Okotoks or Cochrane Chestermere or Okotoks or Cochrane just because just because of our growth,” says Langdon of our growth Community Association president Jeanette Dame (pictured left). Earlier this spring, Rocky View County County and Rocky View Schools have, Newcomers have been steadily relocating council approved unanimously a conceptual however, identified a 16-hectare site for a to Langdon since 1995 as a way to escape plan for a proposed 18-hectare residential future local high school. Population: 3,595 (2006 municipal census) the hustle and bustle of Calgary without community in the hamlet’s northwest end. Redevelopment of downtown Langdon Location: Junction of secondary highways having to leave all of the urban amenities The community of Mornington would is also ongoing. The historic street is 797 and 560 (Glenmore Trail), approxi- far behind, says Dame. consist of more than 140 single-family being designed to mirror how the hamlet mately 16 km east of Calgary. She should know — she was one of them. lots, which each ranging from 0.05 to 0.4 looked in 1908 in an effort to pay homage Online: www.goodlucktown.ca She moved to Langdon with her husband hectares in size. to its history as a once thriving railroad and two young children four years ago. It would join current developments such community. going to attract industries and things that She praises Langdon for being a friendly as The Arbours of Langdon, a townhome Projects such as these three are necessary people can do for a living,” he says. community where people know their community by the Partners Development to stay ahead of the growth Langdon has “It’s at that size that it’s really starting to neighbours. Yet she also knows as the Group in the hamlet’s northeast end. been experiencing steadily for the past 15 attract things.” hamlet sets forth to undergo its biggest Another project reshaping Langdon years, says Rocky View County Reeve The hamlet already has a golf course, a transformation yet, maintaining that sense is a much-anticipated new elementary Rolly Ashdown (pictured right). park, a field house, a deli, a medical office, of community won’t be easy. school, which is currently under “When you’re considering development, a veterinarian, a dentist, a coffee shop, a bar “Part of our challenge going forward construction and slated to open in you don’t consider development as the — and an Italian restaurant that Ashdown is with this growth — with all these new September 2012. next house needs to be built. You have and Dame both rave about. communities coming in and making sure Sarah Thompson Elementary School to consider development with what the But both would like to see more amenities, they really are brought in to be part of the is expected to accommodate about 450 trend is. And the trend is that Langdon is such as a grocery store, come in to serve the community,” she says. students from kindergarten to Grade 4. growing,” he says. needs of the community. “We’d really like to embrace all of these This will help take the strain off Langdon The community’s growing population As the transformation continues, new neighbourhoods to be Langdon.” School, a kindergarten to Grade 9 school will likely appeal to new businesses that are Ashdown urges everyone to stay tuned. Dame suggests connected pathways and that Dame says “is bursting at the seams.” considering setting up shop in Langdon, “If you’re following what’s growing, regular town events as two examples of ways Older students currently attend adds Ashdown. Langdon is one to watch, that’s for sure,” he to create a strong community atmosphere. Chestermere High School. Rocky View “It’s going to attract businesses. It’s says.
24 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE
Strathmore community offers homeowners big-city savings uality and value come together flooring upgrades available. at Wildwood Village, a new The two-car garage models also include a Qtownhome development in fireplace and entertainment centre layout. Strathmore. Customizing options including paint Located on the east side of this fast- colour selection and flooring are growing town, adjacent to major shopping available. On-site amenities include a and schools, Wildwood features a mix of large, family-oriented park located in the double-car and driveway units with price middle of the development. points and incentives that’ll have you raring Located about 30 minutes’ drive from to roar up the Trans-Canada Highway. Calgary on the twinned Trans-Canada “This is about quality and value — we Highway, Strathmore is coming into its have homes located next to the Sobey’s, own as a destination for those looking to Wal-Mart and Shoppers Drug Mart, so enjoy the amenities of a large town, with there’s great proximity for shopping — ease of access to Calgary, the mountains, and there’s an elementary school only a and even the badlands to the northeast. block away,” says Partners Development Gutek says Strathmore offers a more Group Ltd. Greg Gutek. affordable alternative to Calgary real estate. “What we’re offering is small-town “Compared to the city, you’re easily living, but with big-time savings. getting $50,000 in savings if you were to Wildwood Village offers a selection find a comparable product in Calgary,” of three-bedroom townhome units with he says. driveways, starting at $204,900, and Since 1998, Partners Development ranging from 1,125 to 1,150 square feet. Group has built more than 800 multi- Townhomes are ready to move into family units in the Calgary area, including now, with the added incentive that Arrive at Skyview Ranch in Calgary, Partners will pick up half of homeowners’ Arbours of Langdon in Langdon, Tara mortgage payments for the first year, Springs in Calgary, Silver Creek Lodge in which works out to almost a $9,000 Canmore, and Dakotas Sky Ranch and value per unit. Spring Meadows in Okotoks. Wildwood Village also offers a selection Two show homes are now open of two-car garage units covering 1,425 in Wildwood Village at 330 and 331 square feet that feature a 22-by-24-foot Ranch Ridge Mdws. To get there, follow garage, three bedrooms and a master Highway 1 east to Lakeside Boulevard, ensuite. Prices start at $239,900. turn left, and then right at East Ridge Standard features include high-efficiency Road and watch for the signs. furnaces, rounded corners, nine-foot For more information, visit www. ceilings, large kitchens with island and partnershomes.ca, or call Stan Johnson pantry. Some units have tile and hardwood at 403-560-9364.
SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 25 ADVERTISING FEATURE Sun setting on opportunities in Cochrane community ocated on Cochrane’s scenic north Floor plans start at 1,387 square feet, side, Sunset Ridge by Innovations by with three-bedrooms and two-and-a-half LJayman offers high-quality, affordable baths, up to 1,890 square feet, with four single-family homes, no matter what your bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths (plus stage of life. third-storey loft). But you need to move fast — there are Prices start at $304,900, including lot, only 14 opportunities left in the latest GST and move-in ready package for the phase of this innovative community. 1,387 square-foot model. “These are all spec homes, and five The spec palates used in the Phase 8 come with what we are calling a Move-in homes “were chosen by professional interior Ready Package,” says area sales manager designers, and we have paint upgrades Ashley Hebert. available from contemporary to traditional to “In five of the 14, we’re going to be suit everyone’s tastes,” says Hebert. including front and rear sod installed, a “As an extra promotion for customers Hunter Douglas blind package, and a who have a house to sell, if they list their Samsung front-load washer/dryer package.” current home with Jayman Realty, we’ll All this is on top of standard features pay the listing fees.” that include hardwood and tile, Samsung Sunset Ridge fills a need in Cochrane for Sunset Ridge is located close to all of For more information, visit the show stainless steel appliances, potlights and buyers looking for that first home, adds Cochrane’s amenities, including the historic home at 9 Sunset Cmn. — head north rear decks. Hebert. downtown and shopping areas, as well as on Highway 22 from Highway 1A to Of the 14 homes left in Phase 8, four “Traditionally, Cochrane doesn’t have a junior-senior high school that recently Sunset Boulevard, turn right and follow have back lanes, while the other 10 are a lot of starter homes, so that has really opened in the community itself. the signs. semi-detached with single front attached been drawing a lot of people in here,” she A strip mall with 24-hour convenience Show home hours are Monday to garage. says. “We’re seeing young professionals, store is also under construction in the area. Thursday, 2 to 8 p.m., and weekends “A number of our homes are walkouts, young families, but we’re also seeing All this, and you are still only 15 and holidays, noon to 5 p.m. and we have one left with a mountain- empty nesters who are downsizing. There minutes’ drive from northwest Calgary, Also learn more online at www. view walkout,” says Hebert. is a good mix out here.” and less than an hour from the mountains. innovationsbyjayman.com. ADVERTISING FEATURE Mattamy adds new styles, new park to Windsong community attamy’s unique Windsong Whether you are looking for a first home community in Airdrie has become or a larger one, this is a great place to explore M“the” place for family living in and — you will not find a more varied selection around Calgary. anywhere. More than 360 families have moved into The last, lingering days of summer are a this master-planned community. To date, perfect time to see the advantages of life there has been more than 540 sales in total. in Windsong. Come for a stroll and you’ll Windsong is a great example of how a instantly see how totally distinctive this neighbourhood can be designed to serve the community really is, with fewer homes families that live there. Private park spaces, per street and great shared spaces where playgrounds, walking/biking trails and neighbours can gather and become friends. recreational opportunities are built right into Just by strolling around, you’ll run into a lot of the community. very happy families. The homes are stylish and offered in a wide Mattamy has a full line up of six show variety of exterior styles, so each street has homes, so wear comfortable shoes and spend its own identity. There is no sense of homes some time finding the kind of home that’s built on an assembly line in Windsong — perfect for your family. individual character flourishes throughout. every family, including a variety of single-family same architectural and family-friendly features Homes in Windsong are priced from Mattamy has also chosen to add an homes with two-car garages. The truly special as the two-car garage versions. $199,990 to $484,000. additional park, instead of cramming in a few features in these homes include walkouts and Mattamy also offers two types of The Windsong Sales Centre is located more homes, with plans for a third park to inviting front porches. townhomes in Windsong: village homes, at 907 Windsong Dr., Airdrie. For more commence in the fall — more parks, more Inside, you’ll find a sense of space and which are three-storey, back-to-back style information, call 403-980-8765 or visit playgrounds, more places to enjoy life. brightness, with well-planned rooms and with a full-sized front-attached garage and www.mattamyhomesalberta.com Windsong is also now featuring a couple special attractions such as mudrooms, street-level entrance; and urban townhomes, Sales centre hours are Mondays to of new designs: one featuring a triple- second-floor laundry, large bedrooms, and which feature double-attached rear-lane Thursdays, 1 to 8 p.m.; Fridays, 1 to 6 p.m.; car garage, and the other a new urban special architectural features throughout. garages, balconies and basements. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, 11 a.m. to townhome end unit. Windsong also features a variety of single- There are no condo fees on any of the 6 p.m.. Show homes close a half hour prior to There’s a place in Windsong for just about family, single-car garage homes that share the townhomes in Windsong. sales centre closing. 26 SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 DON’T JUST RIDE INTO THE SUNSET, MOVE INTO IT. Only 12 opportunities left in Phase 8 of Sunset Ridge, so act now!
ThePULSAR 1554 sq.ft. TheSOLSTICE 1543 sq.ft. TheNOVA 1387 sq.ft. ThePULSAR 1554 sq.ft. 245 Sunset Common 233 Sunset Common 213 Sunset Common 197 Sunset Common $312,900 | $1,352/mth* $314,900 | $1,360/mth* $304,900 | $1,317/mth* $311,900 | $1,347/mth*
ThePULSAR 1554 sq.ft. TheNOVA 1387 sq.ft. TheSIRUS 1414 sq.ft. TheMOTIV 1611 sq.ft. 277 Sunset Common 221 Sunset Common 149 Sunset Common 125 Sunset Common $338,800 | $1,464/mth* $304,900 | $1,317/mth* $319,900 | $1,382/mth* $319,900 | $1,382/mth*
Sunset Common Sunset Blvd
THE SUNSET RIDGE Suns OF COCHRANE ustDrive Sunset
e t iha 22 Highway Way Sunset Heights SUNSET RIDGE, COCHRANE 9 SUNSET COMMON Phone: (403) 981-3147 Sunset Point TheNOVA 1387 sq.ft. TheMOTIV 1611 sq.ft. SHOWHOME HOURS: Calgary 145 Sunset Common 121 Sunset Common Mon - Thu: 2-8 pm Town of Cochrane Sat, Sun & Hol: 12-5 pm $314,900 | $1,360/mth* $324,900 | $1,403/mth* Closed on Fri
3.39% Fixed 5 year interest rate UNBELIEVABLE MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES at Jayman Financial. Interested in a quick possession home? Rates starting from 2.97% ona5year50/50term. Some conditions apply. Must qualify at a higher rate. Visit our sales centre for more information. InnovationsByJayman.com * Based on 5% down, 30 year amortization, 5 year fixed rate of 3.39%. O.A.C. 45 day rate hold. E.&O.E. Some conditions apply. Rates subject to change without notice. See sales centre for details. Renderings may not be exactly as shown. SUBURBS + SATELLITES SEPTEMBER 2011 27 mattamyhomesalberta.com Here’s A Place Where 3 Cars Can Live Comfortably.
New Tandem Triple Car Garage Plan Now Available.
Our newest home in Airdrie’s Windsong has lots of family living space. It also has plenty of room for 3 cars. You’ll find the homes in Windsong have a very distinctive look and the streets are filled with a variety of exterior architecture. Our homes have welcoming front porches, lots of oversized windows for more natural light in the home and great family features are evident throughout the home. All of this in a neighbourhood with its own park spaces, playgrounds and walking/biking trails. Visit Windsong in Airdrie and discover why more than 360 families have already decided to enjoy life here. Double Car Garage WideLot™ Home, The Wentworth ‘B’, 1,988 Sq.Ft.
PATIO DOOR
DROPPED CEILING OPT. DOOR GAS FIREPLACE IF GRADE PERMITS Tranquil Family space W.I.C. ENSUITE with an Owner’s Retreat
OWNER'S RETREAT DOUBLE HANGING DINING AREA Open concept OPT. DOUBLE SINKS GREAT ROOM 17'4"x13'0" complete with Ensuite and Breakfast Bar and 9'0"x11'0" 12'0"x17'6" TANDEM Great Room. Walk-in Closet. Food Prep Island. 9'4"x25'5"
DW
BEDROOM 2 FLUSH 13'0"x11'6" BREAKFAST BAR S BEDROOM 3 2 spacious Bedrooms ISLAND 13'6"x10'6" Walk-in pantry and lots KITCHEN PWD 9'0"x14'0"(9'6") complete with
WALK-IN PANTRY LAUNDRY SUNKEN
F DN IF REQ'D. W of cupboard space. COAT Walk-in Closets. NICHE IF REQ'D Large BATH W.I.C.
D OPT. UPPERS DOOR 3-Car Garage. IF GRADE PERMITS W.I.C. LINEN SLIDERS
MIRRORED UP Large Family Room FOYER GARAGE SLOPED KNEEWALL Spacious welcoming 18'8"x19'6" KNEEWALL FAMILY ROOM with large windows for LEDGE OPEN SLOPED KNEEWALL 18'10"x13'0" (14'6") TO ABOVE Front Porches Foyer. OPEN TO FOYER BELOW wonderful natural light.
DN DN LEDGE are perfect for saying ‘hello’ to PORCH neighbours. INSET STEP(S) IF REQ'D. Second Floor Plan Main Floor Plan Double Car Garage WideLot™ Home, The Wentworth ‘B’, 1,988 Sq.Ft., $381,990
M a in S treet Townhomes from $199,990 Yankee Valley Blvd. CO-OP Windsong ™ Dr ive 2 Single Car Garage WideLot Homes from $277,990 Sales 8th Street W Centre WAL MART
Nose 10 Minutes ™ To Calgary Double Car Garage WideLot Homes from $341,990 Creek These prices include the lot, the home and GST. Balzac Range Road 11 566
There are no condo fees on any Mattamy Home. CrossIron Mills Mall Sales Centre Hours: Monday to Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pm 28 SUBURBS + SATELLITESAll SEPTEMBER illustrations areartist’s 2011 concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.