Suburbs Satellites& ’S NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITIES JUNE 2011

FOREVER YOUNG AS STRATHMORE CELEBRATES ITS CENTENNIAL, TWO COUPLES REFLECT ON THEIR SHARED PAST

ALSO INSIDE: Saddlery a way of life for craftsmen • Airdrie readies for future boom PLUS: Advantages of life in High River • • Airdrie • Cochrane • and more . . .

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 1 2 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011

Suburbs Satellites& 2A CALGARY’S NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITIES JUNE 2011 DIDSBURY 582 FOREVER YOUNG CARSTAIRS AS STRATHMORE CELEBRATES ITS CENTENNIAL, TWO COUPLES LOOK BACK ON THEIR SHARED PAST 2

ALSO INSIDE: Okotoks sports fans have reason to cheer • Rocky View growth just the beginning PLUS: Advantages of life in High River • Okotoks • Airdrie • Cochrane • and more . . . SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 1 AIRDRIE SUBURBS + SATELLITES COCHRANE in this issue is a special advertising 1 1A STRATHMORE 04 Strathmore 14 Okotoks publication of the Calgary Herald 1 Special Projects Manager: 560 History runs deep through town Golfers don’t have to venture far 22 LANGDON as it celebrates its centennial. for a sampling of quality links. Barb Livingstone, 403-235-7339 22X

[email protected] 22 Project Co-ordinator: 07 Cochrane 16 High River OKOTOKS 7 Town’s housing options open it Craftsmen carry on town’s Jamie Zachary, 403-235-7552 2 [email protected] BLACK up to a new type of homebuyer. local saddle-making legacy. DIAMOND Contributors: HIGH RIVER Wil Andruschak, Estelle Besserer, CAYLEY 10 Cochrane 18 Airdrie Alex Frazer-Harrison, Shawn Hoult, NANTON Revitalization levy could pay off Business is good in growing city, Jacquline Louie, Carl Patzel and for proposed arts and culture. say Airdrie business owners. Gerald Vander Pyl Cover photo: Estelle Besserer, 12 Okotoks 20 Airdrie www.stellarimagery.ca Multipurpose sports facility a Land annexation poses possible potential boon for active families. solution to population boom.

ADVERTISING FEATURE Affordable northwest Calgary living is closer than you think f you’ve always dreamed of owning a home With the addition of five ponds in the in northwest Calgary, now is the time to visit community, there is so much to see and do Ithe new show home parade in EvansRidge. right in your community’s backyard. The latest community by Dundee Develop- All the shopping you could want is also ments and the company’s first in northwest available in several nearby major shopping Calgary, EvansRidge has something for districts, including Creekside Shopping Centre, everyone, including beautiful starter homes which boasts a Calgary Co-op, Shoppers Drug in the low $300,000s and breathtaking estate Mart and Rona; Beddington Towne Centre homes. with Safeway, and London Drugs; and Beacon While many nearby northwest communi- Hill Centre with a Costco and Home Depot. ties might cater to just a few types of buyers, The first show home parade in EvansRidge EvansRidge was purposefully designed to opened May 28 with nine homes by Birch- allow more people to own property in the wood Homes, Genesis Builders Group, Homes northwest, and be near to family or friends By Avi/Avi Concept, Innovations by Jay- who already call the area home. man, Landmark Homes, Morrison/Discovery To create EvansRidge’s wide range of home Homes and WestView Builders. choices, Dundee has gathered eight of In addition, Calbridge Homes will have Calgary’s most notable homebuilders, two show homes on The Ridge, EvansRidge’s including Birchwood Homes, Calbridge exclusive estate home neighbourhood. Homes, Genesis Builders Group, Homes by some innovative designs and floor plans for EvansRidge is also built with northwest Show home hours are Monday to Thursday Avi/Avi Concept, Innovations by Jayman, EvansRidge. Calgary’s wide-open spaces in mind. Home- from 2 to 8 p.m.; weekends and holidays from Landmark Homes, Morrison/Discovery The initial phase in EvansRidge will cater to owners are never more than a few footsteps noon to 5 p.m., or Fridays by appointment. Homes and WestView Builders. different price points and lifestyles, with 200 away from a number of recreation areas, To reach EvansRidge from Stoney Trail, The builders were chosen by Dundee front-drive homes, 98 lane homes, 69 zero- water features and more. go north on Symons Valley Road, east on because of their experience and reputation lot-line homes and 40 townhomes. The community was designed to allow for Symons Valley Parkway, north on Evanspark in constructing homes of the finest design, At final buildout, EvansRidge is expected personal and family growth, with a balance Boulevard to the show homes on Evanston materials and construction. to include 710 single-family homes and 140 between the city’s convenience and the close- Drive. All have responded by coming up with multi-family units. ness to nature. For more information, visit lifeontheridge.ca.

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 3 t was a cold spring. Snow still covered patches of the prairie. There were no roads other than a muddy trail that led to a small one-room farmhouse. The sky was overcast. It had been a damp and cold journey for the two Scheer brothers who had made the long trip from Illinois in the spring of on 1909 to start a new life about 15 kilometres east of Strathmore. heritage “No light looked better than the one they saw that day in the window of the tiny, one-room home,” says John Scheer, 84, about his grandfather John Henry Gustavas Scheer and great uncle Ed as they arrived to homestead in the iarea more than a century ago. Originally from Hanover, Germany, the Scheers had immigrated to the United the prairies States in the mid-19th century. They farmed in Edwardsville, Ill., but soon found the region too crowded for a growing farm family. Convinced by a CPR land promoter that the region — with its newly constructed As Strathmore celebrates its centennial this irrigation system — was a land of promise and prosperity, they packed up their family belongings in three boxcars and rode the rails to the Strathmore region. year, a landmark home stands east of this Freedom, opportunity and, of course, land truly did await them. “My dad wrote you could ride from Strathmore to Drumheller without hitting a town of 12,000, symbolizing just how much barbed wire fence,” he says. “It was all unbroken prairie grass.” At the time, Strathmore was just beginning to flex its civic muscle as a hub for the the community has grown over the years outlying farming and ranching community. It had grocery stores, a livery, bank, two hotels, a blacksmith, two hardware stores Story by Joel Schlesinger. Photos by Estelle Besserer and a doctor’s office — not bad for a community that had picked up stakes in 1905 Pictured top: John and Anne Scheer, left. and moved a few kilometres to where it is today, straddling both sides of the Trans- Winston and Carrie Sproule, right. Highway, 40 kilometres east of Calgary. “The CPR mainline came through Strathmore on its way to Calgary in 1883,”

4 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 It certainly represents an important era in the opening up of this country.

Scheer says. “But the town that was proposed to be called Strathmore was about four miles south of where it’s presently located.” Today, Strathmore still reflects that same original optimism that drew early families to the area 100 years ago. As the town of more than 12,000 celebrates its 100th anniversary this year after incorporation in 1911, many of the original families still call the community home, including the Scheers. John Scheer and his wife Anne, 73, continued in the tradition of his grandfather and father, working the land. Today, they live in central Strathmore in a walk-up, two-storey condominium. They say it’s a path that many farming families follow as they pass the torch to the younger generations, retiring to a comfortable life in town. “We have lots of grandchildren who seem to find their way here as a spot to hang out until they have a job to go to or a sporting event,” says Anne, a former schoolteacher and historian who edited a book on the history of schoolhouses in the district. The Scheers moved to Strathmore after retiring from the family farm in 2003. Today, the youngest of their four daughters, Beth, and her husband Rod Vergouwen, live Today, the old Scheer home is called the Sproule Heritage in the house that John and Anne built in the 1980s, and still farm the House, and it’s found new life as a bed and breakfast — and same land their ancestors did when they arrived in the community more as the setting for commercials by Hallmark and the a century ago. government. Much of the region’s history — from unfenced prairie to a vibrant Run by Winston and his second wife Carrie, the Sproule agricultural community — is evident in Anne and John’s choice of décor Heritage B&B attracts tourists from around the world who in their condo. want to experience some of Western Canada’s rich history. Many old photos hang on walls and rest on end tables and mantels. While its TV past helps add to the colourful past, it’s the They have the clock that commemorates John’s grandparents’ wedding. old home’s construction that makes it a true jewel of prairie One of their prize possessions is an antique settee — a hand-made history, Sproule says. wooden chair for two — that was lovingly restored by a local, former When John Scheer’s grandparents began construction at pastor Winston Sproule. the end of the First World War, it was meant to be their In fact, Sproule’s connection to the family runs much more deeply than dream home. It took about four years to complete, and restoring one piece of furniture. John’s grandparents moved into the house in 1920 just in That settee once sat in the parlour of John Scheer’s grandparents’ home time for their 25th wedding anniversary. — still standing today east of Strathmore. The two-and-half-storey The house, then painted white with grey trim, was grand for its time home was built in the early 1920s by the Hornstrom Brothers, famed — and arguably even for these modern times. It was self-sustaining builders in whose work still stands in many southern with running water, electricity and a coal furnace — something many Alberta communities. neighbours in the area could only dream of in the 1920s. Many of their buildings are historical landmarks, and that includes the “Our farm home was 15 miles farther east, and we just got power old Scheer residence. That homestead — the house, the barn and another in there in the early ’50s,” Sproule says. “This house had a generating smaller structure — is now a designated historical site. system for power back when it was built, and it even had a basement While the buildings are well-preserved today, that wasn’t the case when bathroom, which was unheard of in those days.” Sproule and his wife at the time, Vera — who has since passed away — Now the home is heated by natural gas and powered off the grid, purchased it in 1985. The basement windows were smashed or boarded but its original well and septic system remains. up. Parts of the house were rotten. The front-door window was smashed, For the most part its traditional style also largely remains intact — and the hardwood floors looked irreparably damaged. thanks to Sproule and help from the Alberta Historical Resources The Sproules always admired the home, and decided to purchase it, Foundation, which provided both consultation and funding for aiming to fix it up as a place to spend their post-work years. restoration. “It wasn’t too hard to know what to do,” says Sproule, 71. “You had to “When we got into the actual restoration, we always leaned more do everything, but it had the potential to make it worthwhile restoring.” heavily toward the traditional,” Sproule says, adding one change is the For the first two years, the Sproules couldn’t live in the house. By 1987, home’s exterior is now all white. “We felt that (going with tradition) the couple had restored the upstairs, and the heritage farmhouse was was appropriate because it certainly represents an important era the looking inviting once again. opening up of this country.”

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 5 ADVERTISING FEATURE Serene Wildflower Ranch making some noise in Strathmore et the best of both worlds at incredible value for their dollar. Large homes and lots are available from only parade that currently showcases four single- Wildflower Ranch, Strathmore’s first homes sit on even larger lots, giving $279,000. family models and one semi-detached. Gmaster-planned community. residents the room they need to raise a Homes are held to strict architectural Though the grand opening of the Wildflower Ranch residents can enjoy family or just unwind in the wide-open guidelines. Prospective residents can choose community took place only a few months the unique opportunity to enjoy the prairie landscape. from one of four acclaimed builders: Aquilla ago, Wildflower Ranch is already garnering serenity of quiet prairie living while still The first phase of the master-planned Homes, Paradyme Homes, Canterra Custom a lot of attention, with early sales moving being only a short drive away from development features 61 lots, including 41 Homes, or Carpenter Homes by Astoria. at a brisk pace. Calgary. single-family and 20 semi-detached lots. Between the four builders, a wide range Go online to www.wildflowerranch.ca, Along with a gentler pace of life, Pricing for single family-homes and lots of options is available, some of which are call 403-243-4338, or visit the show home Wildflower Ranch provides residents with starts at $339,000, while semi-detached on display in the community’s show home parade in Strathmore.

6 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 COCHRANE Room to grow Town evolves as new market for homebuyers

Story by Jacqueline Louie Photo by Wil Andruschak COCHRANE at a glance algary’s neighbouring communities are often categorized by their distinctive Cqualities —­ Airdrie, for example, its affordability, Okotoks for its environmentalism, and Cochrane its enviable location and upscale market. Population: 15,424 (Alberta Municipal Yet Cochrane is also doing its best to dispel Affairs, 2010). those stereotypes with an increase in more Location: Junction of highways 1A and affordable housing, opening itself up to a new 22, 18 kilometres northwest of Calgary. type of homebuyer — like former Calgarian Online: www.cochrane.ca Mike Anderson, pictured, who moved to Ghost Lake, close to Canmore and the Cochrane last December after purchasing a mountains,” says Innovations by Jayman area three-bedroom, two-storey townhome with sales manager, Kym Daigle. attached garage for $295,000. “Living out here, you can get a jump start on “I love it. Everything is a bit slower and more your weekend. Driving into Cochrane, your spirit relaxed,” says the 46-year-old golf professional at is lifted, because it’s so calming.” the Cochrane Golf Club, adding that he found In 2008, the Town of Cochrane developed the condo prices in Cochrane were very similar to Cochrane sustainability plan — “one of the real Calgary’s, or slightly less. policy shifts made over the past couple of years As for the lifestyle, he says, “the difference is toward trying to become a complete community, tremendous — there’s a lot less stress. The car not just a bedroom commuter community for doesn’t get as much wear and tear, and there’s less Calgary,” says Cochrane Mayor Truper McBride. traffic. Cochrane is so close to Calgary, yet when “Part of that is the need to make sure that you get out here it’s like living in a small town everyone, regardless of income, can find a home out in the middle of nowhere. It’s a nice feeling. in Cochrane.” It’s very comfortable out here.” Part of that strategy was to find housing Anderson’s townhome is just a few hundred and encourage home ownership for low- to yards from River, so it’s an easy stroll moderate-income households earning less than down the lane with his two dogs to an off-leash $58,900 annually, says Corinne Burns, housing area where he can let them run. In Calgary, co-ordinator for the Town of Cochrane and the Anderson had to load up his hounds into the car Cochrane Society for Housing Options, a non- to get to an off-leash area. profit organization that provides below-market In an effort to attract more homebuyers like rental housing in Cochrane, Anderson, the Town of Cochrane and area For example, in a partnership with Habitat developers are developing strategies to increase for Humanity, the Town of Cochrane and the the availability of affordable housing. Cochrane Society for Housing Options has Homes in Slokker Canada West’s Riverstone placed 10 families into home ownership in 91-townhome community, for example, start in Habitat-built townhouses. the $270,000s — a far cry from the town’s once The Cochrane Society for Housing multi-million-dollar stereotype. Options is also working to bring the Peak Innovations by Jayman, meanwhile, is offering Home Ownership program into Cochrane, in two product lines in the Riversong community: partnership with Trico Homes and Habitat for 1,387- to 1,611-square-foot semi-attached Humanity. The program assists homeowners homes with front attached garage for under with down payments, and will provide qualified $300,000 applicants up to $56,000 in equity financing “The big pull is we’re just 10 minutes from and mortgage assistance. SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 7 ADVERTISING FEATURE Extraordinary is a way of life at Heritage Hills in Cochrane he Cochrane community of Trico’s staples, with soaring ceilings and Heritage Hills is giving homeowners a kitchen that opens onto a nook and Tthe opportunity to make the unique great room, all of which is brightly lit beauty of the Alberta foothills part of by a wall of six 24-x-60-inch picture their everyday life. 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 beautiful wide-open spaces, it also south, the community of Heritage provides homeowners with plenty of Hills is peppered with green space and space of their own. The large residences variety of homes to choose from. and open designs, as well as standard pathways that accentuate the beauty sit on even larger lots, with ample space Models include two-storey homes, hardwood and tile floors. of the area. surrounding homes that range from bungalows and even large homes with One of the most stunning of Trico’s For more information visit 1,425 to 2,550 square feet. detached rear garages. models is now being showcased as the www.tricohomes.com or www. Trico Homes currently has 15 lots And because of the landscape, many developer’s new Heritage Hills show heritagehillscochrane.com. available for purchase in the highly lots are also able to offer walkout home. Prospective homebuyers are To see first-hand what Heritage Hills sought-after community, with pricing basements. invited to visit the new Fairmont show has to offer, visit the new Trico show starting as low as $359,000. In total, Trico Homes has 16 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 earlier this month. 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and most of their space, Trico offers a offer nine-foot ceilings, huge windows The Fairmont design highlights all of holidays from noon to 5 p.m.

8 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Countdown is on for remaining homes at Riverstone in Cochrane he countdown is on for the final “If you buy in Riverstone this month, single-car garages, storage and an option either. In addition to the golf course, the 15 homes in Riverstone in Cochrane, we’ll have you into your new home before to develop the basement. recreation centre is a short drive away, as is Ta townhome community near the school starts in the fall,” he says. Basic floor plans cover 1,355 square feet Cochrane’s character-filled downtown area. scenic Bow River and all the services and The remaining homes face Riverstone’s over two levels, not including the basement. Prices start in the $270,000s; units with amenities the growing town has to offer. private courtyard — several remain with Upgrade options include hardwood, walkout basements start at $309,900. With construction expected to end this views of the Cochrane Golf Club, which granite tile entrances, stainless-steel Visit the sales centre at 240 Riverview summer, near-immediate occupations are winds its way through the neighbourhood. appliances and fireplaces. Dr. (follow Highway 22 to Griffin Road now available, says Peter Paauw, president A number of the townhomes have Since Riverstone is located in an head east to either Riverview Drive or River of development partner Slokker Canada walkout basements. All floor plans feature established part of Cochrane, there’s no Avenue and turn right). Call 403-932-3988, West Inc. three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, need to wait for amenities to catch up, or visit riverstonecochrane.com.

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 9 COCHRANE Leveraging the levy Town proposal could pay off for future arts centre

Story by Shawn Hoult toward both infrastructure and community projects, such as the proposed $22.5-million little-known levy that allows Alberta arts and culture centre. municipalities to fund local revital- The centre (rendering pictured right) has ization projects is being targeted by been on the town’s radar for several years. In A 2008, town council approved a $100,000 Cochrane officials as a potential solution to financing the town’s long-debated arts centre. feasibility study that led to the current arts The levy allows municipalities to identify centre proposal. revitalization needs and reallocate taxes that The plan was created by the Arts and would otherwise go to . Culture Society of Cochrane with the aid We always throught it was a big city thing that a small municipality “We always thought it was a big city thing of Proscenium, a Vancouver architectural like Cochrane wouldn’t be able to take advantage of. that a small municipality like Cochrane firm whose resume includes Calgary’s Vertigo wouldn’t be able to take advantage of,” says Theatre and Pumphouse Theatre. Brian FitzGerald, arts centre co-ordinator been invited to the table in the past.” Paige Milner, senior manager of corporate The proposal has been accepted by council with the Arts and Culture Foundation of FitzGerald says the vision for the Arts and services for the Town of Cochrane, and the search for a site will culminate with Cochrane, says there is still a lot of fund- Culture Centre is to create a cultural hub for “This is a creative financing opportunity.” an official announcement in July. raising to be done, but the town has shown a community rich with artists in a variety of She warns the process of applying for the Though the question of how to fund the increased interest in the project. media including painting, music and theatre. commercial revitalization levy is still in its project still looms. “Recent discussions with the mayor have “We want people to be able to go in there early stages. If it does come to pass, it could “In the arts, we have good support but put us in the top three, which is exciting,” any time of the day and something will be help the town free up funds that could go their vision is very expensive,” she says. says FitzGerald. “It’s exciting. We haven’t happening,” he says. ADVERTISING FEATURE Cochrane development makes maintenance-free look easy rom its gorgeous alpine design to suites available for buyers looking to common areas and amenities found customize their homes with their own Fwithin, Lofts on the Bow in Cochrane colours, carpets, hardwoods and finishings. is an extension of the natural beauty that Waterhouse says response to the surrounds it as well as the quiet charm of development has been excellent, adding the town it calls home. that Lofts on the Bow provides the perfect The adult-living 45-plus development solution for homeowners looking to is a community within a community, downsize and enjoy a maintenance-free combining well-appointed condo living lifestyle. with the convenience of 13 different The average suites are larger than most common areas. condos and have storage rooms on the decks, Residents can shoot a game of pool providing lots of space to accommodate that in the billiards room, relax in the library, transition from a single family home. enjoy a barbecue in the 7,000-square- Many residents are also attracted to the foot central courtyard, work out in the idea of living in Cochrane, a community fitness room, or take advantage of the that provides a unique blend of small-town development’s car wash bay, meeting charm and big-city amenities, including a room, dining area or kitchen. brand new 24-hour urgent-care facility only The facility even offers two guest suites minutes from Lofts on the Bow, a valuable for visitors. manager Tom Waterhouse. “They always GST with an excellent selection of floor factor for seniors deciding where to enjoy Lofts on the Bow also offers a location say in real estate: location, location, plans remaining. their retirement. that can’t be beat. The 68-suite building location. Well, we stepped up and bought Most suites feature two bedrooms plus a “There’s so much in Cochrane. People is surrounded by the forested hillside of the location. I think the people who have den. There are also a handful of top-floor who move from Calgary to Cochrane love it‚ the adjacent environmental reserve, and bought in Lofts on the Bow certainly loft suites available, including both one- they just eat it up,” says Waterhouse. provides quick access to walking paths appreciate that.” and two-bedroom models. For more information go online to that wind throughout Cochrane. Of the 68 units, only 23 are still While the majority of the available suites www.loftsonthebow.com, call 403-932-4214 “We have a lot to offer and a location available, with sales continuing at a steady are finished and available for immediate or 403-620-4567 (after hours), or visit the that really is second to none,” says sales pace. Prices start from the $330,000s plus possession, there are also six unfinished sales centre at 45077 George Fox Tr. 10 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 11 OKOTOKS

Ice(ing) on the cake Supporters say proposed facility is ‘catch-up mode’ Story by Alex Frazer-Harrison Photo by Wil Andruschak

ormer NHLer Sheldon Kennedy says a proposed regional multipurpose Frecreational facility between Calgary and Okotoks is a place where he and others could be healthy parents. “I see the whole mindset and goal around creating this facility is about creating healthy kids,” says the former Calgary Flame, pictured second from the left, who has lived in municipal district for about 12 years. “Sport has so much to offer, and we can’t lose that perspective.” I see the whole mindset and goal around creating this facility is OKOTOKS Kennedy is one of several local sports about creating healthy kids. at a glance icons who have thrown their support behind the to-be-named $5-million facility, used by the school and residents in the Roger Taylor, chair of the Dunbow which is expected to provide recreation area.” Recreation Board, which was established to opportunities for the municipal district’s The rural area to the south of Calgary, develop recreation facilities in Division 6 growing population. closest to the planned facility is home to of the MD, says getting a rink and other The proposed recreation centre is planned about 12,000 people and growing, says indoor facilities up and running at the Population: 23,201 (2010, Alberta for a site off Secondary Highway 552, MD of Foothills Reeve Larry Spilak, proposed location is a case of being “in Municipal Affairs). between the present K-9 Heritage Heights pictured far right catch-up mode.” Location: Junction of Highways 2A and 7, School and a planned second school. “We currently share facilities with the “The reeve recognized that the rate of 23 kilometres south of Calgary. “There’s no more ice time (available) neighbouring towns of Okotoks and High development and the pace of growth here Online: www.okotoks.ca for kids in Okotoks or even Calgary, and River, but those facilities are overrun. More has been fairly fast and we haven’t had the there’s definitely a need,” says Kennedy. facilities are required,” he says. facilities,” says Taylor, pictured far left. second from the right. “This is my country “I grew up in a rural community on Heritage Heights School currently “We have a concept plan at the moment, and any time I can help out, that’s great.” the Manitoba-Saskatchewan border, and accommodates as many as 500 students. and as soon as we have confirmation on Organizers of the planned facility are we’d play hockey (at the local recreation The separate school board has indicated it funding, we’ll get engaged in the detailed currently raising funds for the facility. The complex) at noon hour, or run around will be building the second school within planning.” most event was an NHL-Flames Alumni and Rollerblade in there. It was a place we the next two to three years. Taylor says the hope is for construction Gala & Game at the Centennial Arena and utilized as much as we could.” “The plan is to put this facility right to begin in 2012. Foothills Centennial Centre in Okotoks Kennedy says creating a one-stop shop between the two. We feel the two schools For another Flames legend, former in mid April that included donations of for recreation and sports programs will make it an ideal location,” says Spilak. trainer Bearcat Murray, supporting the $250,000 and $100,000 from the Scott be good for students and families from The facility’s exact layout and amenities planned facility continues a family tradition. Seaman Sport Rinks and Okotoks Minor Okotoks and beyond. have yet to be determined, and will Murray arena at the Okotoks Recreation Hockey Association, respectively. “You see the big shopping malls — depend on funding and other factors Centre was named after the Murray family’s The next major fundraiser, the Second they’re better utilized when everything’s — an application for P3 (public-private commitment to the local sports scene. Annual DRB Turkey Dinner, is set for Oct. 1. together,” he says. “The kids will have a partnerships) funding was underway at “The ice is badly needed out here,” says For more information, visit www. pretty awesome facility that will be totally press time. the longtime Okotoks resident, pictured dunbowrecreation.org. 12 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Secret is out on Drake Landing’s ‘hidden’ potential in Okotoks hh! Drake Landing in Okotoks has many floor plans have you seen that plans omit the secret door for an additional The Venetian is one of 14 floor plans a secret. No, it’s not that it’s one of incorporate a secret room hidden behind a bedroom or a bonus room, if you prefer. available, ranging from 1,447-square-foot S Canada’s greenest communities. Nor double bookcase? And this isn’t a cramped It’s just one of the features in the 2,474- bungalows to two-storey plans covering that it’s in one of the country’s fastest- hideaway closet — it’s a full-sized room square-foot Venetian model, which includes 2,764 sq-ft. Prices start in the $420,000s. growing towns. perfect for a children’s playroom, “man 10-foot ceilings in the kitchen, a great room Visit the Venetian show home at 149 Nor is it the fact that homeowners are cave,” an office, or just your own secret with gas fireplace, a main level designed for Drake Landing Loop in Okotoks by only moments away from shopping, culture quiet getaway. It even has a wet bar. entertaining and hardwood throughout. following Milligan Drive east from Highway and even a small airport. “This is a unique hideaway that you can’t Ideal for families, the Venetian offers a 2A and watch for the signs. You need to look closer — at Lifestyle see from the outside,” says sales manager walk-through mudroom/pantry connecting Or call 403-938-2504; visit www. Homes’ new Venetian show home. How Clint Pilon, adding it’s all in fun; other floor the kitchen with the garage. lifestylehomes.ca.

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 13 OKOTOKS To the fore(!)ground No shortage of local links to tempt golf lovers Story by Carl Patzel A full-service golf club from the locker- Calgary Herald photos room to club cleaning, D’Arcy Ranch is a 20-year-old mature course designed to hether it’s a quick nine holes harmonize with tree-lined ravines, water and after work or a challenging sloping fairways. scenic walk through a “We have (everything) from a red tee for a W rank beginner, which brings the course down championship links, Okotoks has a little something for every golfer. to 4,500 yards, right up to our championship Ranked high on several best public golf tees, which are 7,000 yards,” said Watt. course lists, and selected in 2010 by ScoreGolf “We implemented (the shorter tee boxes) a Magazine as the most underrated golf course couple of years ago, and that has really caught in Alberta, D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club, pictured on, especially in the tournaments when you get opposite page, offers a challenging 6,919-yard, someone who has never played before.” par-72, 18-hole experience. Several holes run through a main ravine, “We like to treat the public like they are a producing sidehill lies and requiring straight member for the day,” says D’Arcy Ranch head drives to avoid long fescue grass through the CPGA professional, Tim Watt. rough.

14 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 The seventh hole is particularly stunning, lined by 50-foot tall cottonwood trees. offering a tough, risk-reward, 500-yard challenge Highlighting the course is a stretch through that’s bordered by rough, water and sand traps. holes 13, 14 and 15 — or, as it’s better “We have long natural grass. Once it gets known, Death Valley. thick, it gets pretty tough. That’s what makes “The best three holes in Alberta are in that it pretty challenging,” says Watt. “We don’t river valley,” says Engelhardt. “In summer, it’s have a lot of trees, but the natural rough sure the nicest walk you can get down there. But makes up for it.” it’s a survival test. You just have to hit good Situated within a wedge of the Sheep shots down there and play smart.” River, Rivers Edge Golf Club is located three Their marquee hole is the ninth, a kilometres east of Okotoks, and offers views 184-yard, par three challenge known as of the Rocky Mountains and sandy cliffs. Waterworld. Complete with an island green Designed in 1994, the 18-hole, par-71 surrounded by water, the picturesque test has layout expanded from nine holes in 2004, been known gobble up a few balls. We have long natural grass. Once it gets thick, it’s pretty tough. and hosted the 2010 Alberta Ladies Amateur “It can be a beast into the wind,” laughs That’s what makes it pretty challenging. Championship. Engelhardt. “I’ve hit a three wood there “It’s a unique golf course … offering plenty of times.” morning round or evening round,” says Crystal “Depending on the tees you play, you can different things. We’re a more relaxed If you only have time for a quick nine-hole Ridge CPGA head professional, David Robinson. really see five entirely different golf courses,” atmosphere,” says general manager Mike round, Okotoks’ youngest course, Crystal But you won’t have to suffer quality says Robinson. Engelhardt of the semi-private course. Ridge Golf Club (pictured opposite page), for speed. The former tree-farm property “The championship tees are definitely for Ranging from 5,200 to 7,000 yards from will card up nicely. was carved out between the Crystal Ridge low-handicap players. But it’s a great golf the championship tees, Rivers Edge winds “We depend on the people who don’t have development in 2004 and includes 70-foot course for all ages and abilities provided through the river valley with several holes five or six hours to kill in a day, whether it’s a poplars with plenty of rock and water work. people play the right tee.”

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 15 HIGH RIVER

Easy riders Saddlery a way of life for local craftsmen Story by Alex Frazer-Harrison Photo by Wil Andruschak

eneath every great cowboy and cowgirl is a saddle. And behind every saddle is Ba skilled saddle-maker. High River is home to a number of these craftsmen, who can transform countless pieces of leather, sheepskin and other materials into a heirloom in the making. “On average, the guys will pass them on to their grandkids,” says saddlemaker Steve Mason. Mason, a longtime High River resident, can rightly claim saddlery is in his blood. His great-grandfather and grandfather were both saddle- and harness-makers. His great- grandfather bought out a saddle business from his brother in High River in 1902. The saddle trade is one of the few trades where your old HIGH RIVER “I played around with leather all through at a glance high school, and I got a couple of ranch jobs methods are still the best. out of school,” recalls Mason. “Then I ended up on a road trip to Groff, pictured, has been in the leather and begin stamping it,” explains Mason as he Wyoming and got talking to a saddle-maker industry for 43 years, 21 of those running stands next to a 1930s-era sewing machine down there, and ended up doing a year-long his own shop, which, besides saddles, also his great-grandfather used. apprenticeship with him.” makes a number of specialty leather items “We’re still using the same tools as 100 Mason has been making custom saddles ranging from gun holsters and portfolio years ago — it’s still about punching holes in Population: 11,788 (2010 town census), full time since 1989, and works out of binders to wastebaskets. leather and making a stitch.” Location: Junction of Highways 2, 2A a workshop in his garage. Most of his “When you get into the handmade items, A key to making a good working saddle — and 23, 48 kilometres south of Calgary. customers are “working cowboys.” whether it’s a saddle or a simple thing like one a rider and horse may be expected to use Online: www.highriver.ca “Some will want a saddle that’s plain Jane, a belt, you’ll never get two exactly the same, for eight to 10 hours at a stretch (as opposed not a lick of stamping,” he says. “And there even if you’re using the same patterns and to saddles you might see rodeo competitors are saddles covered with flower carvings … tools,” he says, adding while most of his use which are mostly designed for shorter Chan when the Hong Kong action icon was lots of guys will put their brand or initials business these days is tack and specialty rides) — is making a saddle that fits the in the area filming Shanghai Noon in 1999. in.” items, he also serves the working cowboys in rider, rather than a specific horse. “He was so into this type of thing — every Visiting Mason’s workshop, as well as that the area. “The saddle will live longer than the chance he’d get, he’d come here,” says Groff. of Stan Groff Saddlery, another High River “A plain saddle would run about 80 to 100 horse,” says Mason. “He was just fascinated by the cowboy-type saddle-maker, you notice something missing: hours (of work),” Groff says, while a more- “It’s got to work for the broader spectrum stuff. We always laughed that he had a chair there’s not a computer to be seen. elaborate saddle may take 300 hours to make. of horses he rides, and it’s got to work for made, but he’d never sit in it because he was “The saddle trade is one of the few trades The patterns seen on a saddle are mostly the guy who’s riding it. They can’t afford to such a hyper person.” where your old methods are still the best,” stamped in with metal tools when the leather hurt their horse, and they can’t afford to hurt Mason says saddlemaking is more a passion says Groff. “They’ve never been able to is wet. themselves.” for him than a living. improve on them, no matter how hard they “The first thing you do is draw a pattern, Groff has had some famous visitors to his “I look forward to coming to work each try.” and I’ll transfer that pattern to the leather shop. He made a director’s chair for Jackie day, so I’m richer than most people,” he says.

16 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Anything but ordinary at Montrose in High River scape the big city for the quieter lifestyle scape. Five new tennis courts will add to the building estate homes on 50-foot walkout that back onto a green space and pond. of Montrose in High River, only a community’s numerous outdoor amenities lots that back on to green space and a pond. All homeowners in Montrose benefit from E25-minute drive south of Calgary. when they open June 15. Homes start from the mid-$400,000s. Buyers the community’s location near shopping and With amenities that are out of the ordinary, Montrose offers a variety of homes at have the option to purchase a lot direct from services, including a new Calgary Co-op store and home selection that is extraordinary, different price points, with three show home Dundee and choose their own builder. that will soon be under construction. Montrose represents a gateway to idyllic living. parades currently available. Phase 2 of Montrose includes The Murals Visit escapethecity.ca, or call 403-245-3515. A master-planned community by Dundee The first features homes by Crossley townhomes by Evolution (Greenboro) starting Montrose is also launching a social media site Developments, Montrose is self-contained Custom Homes and Westview Builders, with in the $240,000s, with July possession dates. at www.escapethecity.ca/treasure so poten- within High River, and features a majestic prices starting from the mid-$300,000s. Phase 2 also features European-styled tial homeowners can get a feel for the local 6.5-hectare (16-acre) pond with lush land- On Montrose Terrace, Lifestyle Homes is homes by Bellia starting in mid-$300,000s lifestyle.

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 17 AIRDRIE

Good for business City’s shop owners respond favourably to survey

Story and photo by Carl Patzel AIRDRIE at a glance irdrie is open for business — and according to a recent survey, business Ais good. Close to one-third of the Airdrie-based companies that were contacted responded to the City of Airdrie’s first-ever Business Population: As of the 2010 census, Satisfaction Survey earlier this year. Airdrie had 39,822 residents. Of the 522 commercial, industrial and Location: 32 kilometres north of downtown home-based businesses that took part in the Calgary on the Queen Elizabeth 2 Highway. survey, 89 per cent rated the city a good to Online: www.airdrie.com excellent place to do business. Jeff Smith, manager of Original Joe’s Restaurant and Bar in Airdrie, has seen a returning to school during the non-summer surge of business growth since opening the months. establishment in June 2010. The owners keep their employees happy “‘The world is our oyster’ is the easiest through contests, promotions, staff parties way to say it. We have a great group of and a positive work environment. people working for us right now,” says “We want to keep the people who are Smith, pictured with kitchen manager Jimin making us our money ultimately happy. John It’s stressful, but it’s a controlled chaos. “We’re past the year of everyone trying us If people aren’t happy you definitely out, and we are driving our sales increasingly notice it.” 15 to 20 per cent weekly — especially with Respondents to the Business Satisfaction the weather getting nicer.” Survey gave Airdrie positive reviews Another healthy indicator came in the area in quality of life, location of the of staffing. More than 70 per cent of survey establishment, community growth, and respondents said recruitment and retention access to customer base and business of staff isn’t a problem. support services. The more places there are in Airdrie for people to go, the better. A whopping 87 per cent of businesses More negative responses regarding the The local money is staying with local businesses. plan to hire more employees or maintain cost of commercial, industrial and office constant staff levels over the next year. space and land, availability of management Age demographics also played a role in happy” with their location. Smith says Original Joe’s currently runs staff and access to professional development coming to Airdrie, adds Smith. The adult- Alberta’s recent economic downturn was a continuous labour force of about 36 programs. oriented neighbourhood pub, with no targeted by a majority of respondents as employees between the back and front of Smith, who also operated an Original minors allowed, is attracting young urban having a negative impact on their bottom the house, with minimal turnover. Joe’s in Red Deer, was originally attracted professionals and couples to its relaxed lines, though the same percentage expected “I would say 30 per cent of our staff that to Airdrie’s strong growth over the past five dining atmosphere. future growth and expansion. are currently working for us have been with years. “A lot of the 25- to 35-year-olds still Smith agrees that most businesses, us since day one,” says Smith, who operates “You can see that (growth) just in regard want to go out for a nice evening, still like including the restaurant industry, felt a bit the Airdrie location with managing partner to the chains coming in,” he says. “The the pub atmosphere, but don’t want to go of a pinch during the recession. Carla Gilchrist. other thing, with CrossIron Mills, you’re and maybe be around kids,” he says. “I think everyone would be lying if they “Staffing is very cyclical — it’s a constant getting more of a pull. There’s more reasons “Our concept is no minors, and it’s a said it was all peachy keen. Did we notice issue with us. But we keep our staff very for the rural areas to now stay home versus massive selling feature for the community a little bit? Yeah, a little bit. But we kept happy.” going into Calgary. here.” people happy,” says Smith. Smith balances his workforce with full “The more places there are in Airdrie for More than 90 per cent of survey-takers “Now that the economy is a little bit and part-time employees, with several people to go, the better. The local money is reported a high satisfaction in quality of stronger, we’re seeing that come back. The of those, ranging in age from 19 to 24, staying with local businesses.” life in Airdrie, while 86 per cent were “very summer is going to be awesome.”

18 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 ADVERTISING FEATURE Hillcrest community makes an entrance in Airdrie illcrest, Airdrie’s newest residential to maintain a large hill in the centre of the homes by Excel Homes and Shane Homes Later phases will include multi-family and community, sure knows how to community — it’s important we preserve the now available for viewing, with two more estate properties,” says Henderson. Hmake an entrance. original topography of the land,” says Susan by Trico Homes opening June 4. “Our aim is to create a truly well-rounded A distinctive half-million-dollar stone Henderson, senior development manager Phase 1 features double front-drive community — a real neighbourhood.” tower marks the gateway to a community with APEX Limited Partnership, which is garages with prices starting in the Visit Hillcrest by heading north on the that feels upscale, but promises to offer a developing Hillcrest. “The community will $349,900s, including lot and GST. QEII Highway, exiting at Yankee Valley wide range of housing choices for a wide have an abundance of green space, with Architectural styles range from Arts and Boulevard, heading west to Eighth Street range of buyers and budgets. play equipment, a plaza within the park and Crafts and Craftsman to Prairie and Tudor. S.W., turn south, and watch for the signs. “What makes Hillcrest unique among an extensive pathway system.” “Our first phase features homes that will Also visit hillcrestairdrie.com to register Airdrie neighbourhoods is we will be able Phase 1 is now open, with four show appeal to the starter and move-up market. for updates.

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 19 AIRDRIE

what Calgary is turning into — that we will get to know our neighbours better.” “Our street (in Calgary), no one talked to Busting at each other or knew each other. And no one had kids on our street. Here in Airdrie I see kids everywhere, so that’s great. the seams “I want the camaraderie — the friendliness that seems to be lacking in the city.” Recent land annexation The Jerreds are not alone. Airdrie has welcomed more than 10,000 new residents a sign of the times since 2006, making the city one of Canada’s Story by Carl Patzel fastest-growing municipalities. Photos by Carl Patzel (left) To accommodate the growth, the City and Calgary Herald (opposite page) of Airdrie recently completed annexation negotiations that will add 4,800 hectares to ike many families moving to Airdrie the city limits — effectively doubling its size. over the past five years, Tara and Nick “We grew a lot faster then we anticipated,” LJerred were looking for a connection says Airdrie senior planner Naren Garg. when they set down roots in Airdrie earlier “(Council and planners are) realizing that this spring incremental annexations have not been as “We wanted more of a smaller town effective as going after a long-term growth atmosphere,” says Tara, who moved to the window of 50 years.” northwest Airdrie area in early May with The proposed annexation boundaries will be husband Nick and son Brendan, 6, and finalized later this year, but the projected maps daughter Kylie, 3. show growth in every direction of Airdrie city “We’re hoping it will be more friendly than limits, except the southern borders.

20 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 Land annexed in 2003, 1,100 hectares’ and middle term. In the long term, obviously worth, was quickly gobbled up by things will change,” he says. “It’s a learning developers, and prompted several unforeseen process. We’re setting the stage for the future.” infrastructure challenges, says Garg. If that future is to be bright and cheery, “We’re still the lowest staffed municipality per public input is essential in the Airdrie growth capita in our mid-size city group,” he notes. “All process, adds Mayor Peter Brown. that is a result of us not having enough time to “We’ve had some pretty dramatic growth catch up and not having a large enough timing over the last little while. The annexation window to put the pieces in place.” allows our planners — working in The City of Airdrie held public hearings conjunction with our citizens, who ultimately in early May looking for input prior to the have the final say — to design the city of the annexation application with the province. future,” says Brown. Garg says response from land owners in Adding to that challenge — particularly as Rocky View County was positive, with most it pertains to housing, schooling and health concerns coming from estate-lot owners in care — is a population growth of between The annexation allows our planners, working in conjunction with surrounding acreage communities. five to eight per cent over the past five our citizens ... to design the city of the future. “They generally had some concerns years, and 2011 projection of over 40,000 about what’s going to happen around their residents. community elements is a priority for the city, boom has become a normal aspect of life in community,” he says. “We’ve had to educate “When you grow as quickly as we did, I adds Brown. central Alberta. them that this is a long-haul process” don’t think everybody kept up,“ says Brown. He notes they are attempting to erase Airdrie’s For now, at least, Airdrie offers a less-hectic Garg adds through public hearings and “From that perspective it’s really important “bedroom community” sticker, while designing lifestyle, they say. financial impact analysis, they’re hoping to to be proactive and more strategic with your a place where residents can live, work and play. “As long as things don’t get too much more smooth the transition of existing residents in relationships with the province and Rocky “I don’t see us growing to 75,000 any time effected in Airdrie I don’t think I’ll mind,” the annexation area. View County so that we’re working together soon, so we’re still going to retain that small- said Tara. “If it’s within five or 10 years, “(We want to) make sure their life doesn’t and we’re not reacting to things.” town feel,” says Brown that’s just progress — that’s just life going on. really get impacted in any way in the short Quality of life and retaining the smaller- For the Jerreds, going through a population I don’t get upset with that.”

SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 21 ADVERTISING FEATURE Cochrane community opens door to idyllic lifestyle hile The Village in Cochrane sits gymnasium, indoor soccer and three NHL- only minutes from the heart of sized ice surfaces. WCalgary it offers a lifestyle that is The town of Cochrane also sits only miles away from big-city living. minutes from Ghost Lake, making it easy Located on the west edge of the sought- for residents of The Village to spend a after Cochrane community of Sunset quiet afternoon boating or sailing. Ridge, the apartment-style condominium And with Kananaskis, Banff National community offers well-appointed homes Park and the Rocky Mountains all waiting that make it easy to relax and re-energize nearby, recreation opportunities are for the adventures waiting outside. endless, including everything from hiking, The Village consists of a mix of stylish biking and skiing to kayaking, rafting and condominiums, including penthouse hang-gliding. suites and townhome units that offer A few suites are still available in the first homeowners a lock-and-leave lifestyle. phase of the project, with many offering Along with perks such as access to immediate move-in dates. heated underground parking, the suites Suites are also available in the second offer a number of interior design highlights phase starting at $199,000 plus GST. such as in-floor heating, nine-foot Suites in the second building will be California knockdown ceilings, masterfully move-in ready within six months. designed kitchens with raised granite Yet the development doesn’t just different kind of Sunday stroll. A future third phase will add another 51 eating bars and ensuites with spacious provide a window on the beauty of its For those who love the water, the Bow suites to the 35 and 40 originally available five-foot showers. surroundings — it also provides a door to River runs through the town and offers in the first two phases, respectively. Adding to the beauty of the design, the wealth of recreation and adventure excellent opportunities for fly-fishing or for Discover The Village at 3102 12 Sunset oversized windows and large balconies that lies just minutes away. a leisurely summer float. Sq. in Cochrane. Show suites are open 2 to connect the stylish homes to the natural The town’s extensive network of walking For indoor adventures, Cochrane is also 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and elegance outside and invite fresh air into paths comes practically to residents’ front home to the Spray Lakes Sawmills Family noon to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays. generously sized master suites and well- doors, while both the Links of Glen Eagles Sports Centre, a huge recreation complex For more information call 403-851-5281 appointed kitchens. and Cochrane Golf Club wait nearby for a that offers a fitness centre, running track, or visit www.calbridgehomes.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE Sensational new show home ready for touring in Windsong ometimes there are show homes that others might create a den or a library. deserve a cursory glance. Other times, The master suite is a place where the Sthere are show homes well worth stress of a long, hard day melts away. The spending time in. main sleeping area includes a double door And then there are show homes that just entrance with a his and hers walk-in closet blow you away — the kind of home you’d and an ensuite that redefines the standard be happy to never leave. for a home spa. Please resist the urge to Mattamy’s new show home in Airdrie’s lock yourself in. Windsong community is definitely in the There are now six show homes in latter category. It will, quite simply, take Windsong, so you can get a great your breath away. sampling of the diverse styles available The Weston has just about everything in this master-planned community, which you’d want in a dream home. For starters has quickly become one of Airdrie’s most it features 2,647 square feet of well- popular neighbourhoods planned space. Homes in Windsong are priced from The graciousness of this home starts $199,990 to $484,990. outside where a front porch overlooks The Windsong sales centre and the street, providing a friendly place to show homes are located at 907 greet neighbours. The two-car garage Windsong Dr., Airdrie, 403-980-8765. is integrated into the home, so it’s less you’re greeted with an astonishing view of the the kitchen and dining room, perfect for For online information, visit www. obtrusive. As soon as you enter the home, great room and its dramatic stone fireplace. easy entertaining. mattamyhomesalberta.com you will experience a sense of calm — the The kitchen is worthy of a good, long If the downstairs is designed for activity, Sales centre hours are Mondays to muted tones and tasteful décor draw you look. Ample, well-crafted cabinets are then the upstairs is designed for serenity. Thursdays from 1 to 8 p.m.; Fridays from 1 into each room. featured, as is a large central island, which There are three bedrooms and an open to 6 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays and holidays The entrance foyer features a coffered is perfect for meal prep, light snacks and loft with railing instead of walls, which has from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. ceiling, as does the private dining room. As homework before dinner. many possibilities. For some, it will be a TV Show homes close half an hour prior to you move toward the back of the main floor, There’s also a butler’s pantry between room; for others, a home office. And still sales centre closing. 22 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011 23 24 SUBURBS + SATELLITES JUNE 2011