the powderhorn song the economic edge the bragg creek opportunity

CELEBRATING ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES ON EARTH
Winter/Spring 2012
THE POWDERHORN SONG
Tim Mitchell and Pat Cardinal:
the people behind the song
THE BRAGG CREEK
OPPORTUNITY
Calling Artists, Investors & Entrepreneurs
THE ECONOMIC EDGE
Calgary Real Estate Board’s
2012 Economic Outlook
1
Winter/Spring 2012
Viewpoint
The beauty of Bragg Creek and Kananaskis as seen through your eyes
09
Heat18things up…
The Powderhorn Song
Philippe Widling, one of our regular contributors, shares a chance
encounter with two well-known locals, Tim Mitchell and Pat Cardinal
The Bragg Creek Opportunity: Calling Artists, Investors and Entrepreneurs
With Calgary’s population expected to double by 2050, the timing – combined
with beauty and location – makes Bragg Creek an outstanding investment
Champions of the Sky
Professional nature photographer Rob McKay showcases some spectacular
raptor images and explains why birds of prey are his favourite subject matter
Every Picture Tells a Story
Calgary photographer Gilles Korent tells the story behind his ‘Living Watercolour’
The Economic Edge
Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) – 2012 Economic Outlook
24
35
48
50
“Worth The Long Wait” 40 x 60 inches
Acrylic on canvas by David Langevin
18
24
35
in the coolest place.
On the Cover
With unwavering focus on the prize, a Snowy Owl banks acrobatically in
pursuit of its prey just east of Bragg Creek. Photograph by Rob McKay
Purveyors of fine original art since 1987
Just west of Calgary, the enchanting Hamlet of Bragg
Creek is the perfect outdoor escape for an adventure© Copyright
2012. Allfilled
rights reserved.
outing with the kids. Watch their faces glow with
Printed in Calgary, Canada on FSC certified paper. Visit: www.fsccanada.org
excitement as they go tobogganing down the hill. Make
For information about
including circulation,
snow angels in the fresh white powder. And warm up by
advertising rates and availability please visit: www.braggmag.com,
email: [email protected], or call:a
(403)
949 3400.
cozy
fire with some hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Showcasing the wondrous beauty of nature as seen
through the diverse eyes of Western Canada’s most talented artists.
2
Bragg Creek Village Centre, 16 White Ave. Bragg Creek, AB. Phone: (403) 949 3777 - www.alicatgallery.com
Looking for a near-perfect getaway that’s not too far from
home? Look no further than beautiful Bragg Creek.
BANDED PEAK
Communications
www.rockyview.ca
3
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4
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5
It is my pleasure to announce that as a result of a
partnership we have recently forged with the Calgary
Real Estate Board (CREB), every edition of this
magazine will now feature a proprietary economic
outlook for the Calgary real estate market, including
Bragg Creek.
Understanding that buying and selling a home is one
of the most important decisions a family can make,
CREB recently hired its own senior economist, AnnMarie Lurie, to help Calgary and area residents make
more informed real estate decisions by identifying
and reporting leading economic indicators for the
Calgary real estate market.
Lurie’s findings substantiate that job creation is
the primary driver for the real estate market. New
jobs attract people to the region, and once the
newly-arrived employees feel secure in their jobs,
purchasing a home naturally becomes the next
main priority. As net migration to the Calgary region
continues to grow, sales volume will rise accordingly,
and if this trend is sustained over an extended
period, the average price of homes in the market will
increase. The forecast summary, including links to
the full report, is on page 50.
The adjacent excerpt from the Royal Bank of
Canada’s senior economist for Alberta confirms that
economists in general are forecasting a very bright
future indeed for Alberta as a whole. With Calgary’s
role as the energy hub of Canada, strength in the
energy sector will continue to stimulate brisk growth
in the greater Calgary real estate market, including
Bragg Creek, for the foreseeable future.
Excerpt from the Annual Provincial
Outlook for Alberta from the Royal Bank
of Canada’s Senior Economist
__________________________________________________________________________
“Amid the heightened economic uncertainty spreading globally in the
past several months, Alberta’s steady progress toward full recovery from
the recession is refreshing.
The provincial economy is now displaying the things that made it a growth
powerhouse a little more than a half-decade ago. Impressed by the
performance to date, we upgraded our call for Alberta’s real GDP growth
to 4.0 per cent this year, which is a pace that we believe will be largely
sustained in both 2012 and 2013, at 3.9 and 3.8 per cent respectively.
With the oil industry buzzing like it was in 2006 and serving as a catalyst
for activity in other sectors, Alberta’s job market is booming. In the first
11 months of this year, there have been 98,000 net new jobs created in
the province, representing the best tally since 2006. This gain could well
cross the 100,000 mark when all is said and done for 2011, which would
set a new record for Alberta.
What is most impressive about this supercharged job market is that the
gains are broadly based across a range of industries, with the energy
sector directly responsible for only a small portion of these gains, with
small to moderate advances being registered in the vast majority of
Amateur Photographer
Competition
700
$
prize
pool
*
John Kearsley: Galatea Creek
Alberta Back On Fast Track
Submission deadline: Monday April 16, 2012
Send in your original photographs of Bragg Creek and
K-Country and you could win a share of the $700 Prize
Pool. In addition to the continued $500 sponsorship from
Rocky View County and CrossIron Mills for the top three
amateur submissions, the first-place winner will also receive
a 24"x36" stretched-canvas print of their winning photograph
from Branded Visuals Inc. (up to a value of $200)
The submission deadline for our Summer 2012 Amateur
Photographer Competition is April 16, 2012. Photographs
must be taken within the Bragg Creek or Kananaskis region.
Photographers retain full rights over their submissions.
Congratulations to John Kearsley – this issue’s winner for
these unique ice formations on Galatea Creek (full image
featured on page 12). Second and third-place winners are
Connie Singer and Clive Cordery, whose submissions appear
on pages 14 and 16 respectively.
Below: Rick Nash, winner of the Fall 2011 competition, with the
stretched-canvas print of his submission from Branded Visuals.
Submission Checklist
• High-resolution files only – we can accept up to 20 MB per email
• Include a description of the image, ideally within the file name
• Bragg Creek and Kananaskis only – that’s all we’ll publish.
industries.
Moreover, the boom entirely emanates from the private sector, which is
the source of an astounding 116,000 new jobs this year. Such strength
easily made up for declines in the public sector and among the selfemployed.
Generally, the outlook for the Alberta economy remains very bright –
Who is eligible to enter?
For the purposes of this competition, the term “amateur”
is defined as one whose primary source of income does not
come from the sale of their photography products or services.
Exceptions apply: see below for full rules. We retain the right to
have the final say over a contributor’s amateur status.
notwithstanding the higher risks that face virtually all global economies.
Meanwhile, work on several oilsands megaprojects is proceeding, which
will continue to generate tremendous economic activity in the province.
FASHION + OUTLETS + DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
There is an inventory of $120 billion worth of oilsands projects currently
at various stages of development and, given the strong commitment by
all stakeholders to build this resource, it will remain a boon to Alberta’s
Dwayne Zaba
Publisher
Visit us at www.braggmag.com
or email [email protected]
6
economy for years to come.”
Robert Hogue, Senior Economist, RBC
*Prize details: The total prize pool of $700 will be awarded as follows. $500 will be awarded to the amateur contributors
of the top three photographs selected for inclusion in the Summer 2012 issue of
,
as selected by our panel: 1st Prize – $250; 2nd Prize – $150; 3rd Prize – $100. Prizes will be awarded in the form of gift certificates
to CrossIron Mills Outlet Mall. A Canvas Print(s) of the winning submission will also be supplied to the 1st prize winner – total
value of up to $200. This will allow for one 24"x36" Gallery Wrap or a combination of smaller sizes (eg. 16"x24" + 12"x18"). Entry
conditions: All amateur photographs submitted to
will automatically be entered into the
seasonally relevant Amateur Photographer Competition unless specifically requested otherwise by the contributor at the time
of submission. Any photographs received after the submission deadline of 4/16/12 may not be entered into the Summer 2012
competition. For the purposes of the Amateur Photographer Competition, an “amateur photographer” is defined as someone
whose primary source of income does not come from the sale of their photography products or services. Ineligible for entry:
, Rocky View County, CrossIron Mills Outlet Mall, Branded Visuals Inc., as well
Employees of
as all affiliates and partners of the preceding parties. Featured Contributors (ie. any photographer who, through mutual agreement,
is included on our Featured Contributors page) and Professional Photographers are also ineligible for entry into the competition.
(Note: Featured Contributors and professional photographers will get full credit for any contributions that we publish, as well as
exposure on the magazine’s Featured Contributors page and on www.braggmag.com for the four-month duration of the respective
issue.) Promotional terms and usage rights: The panel’s decision is final. All photography submissions, along with contributors’
names, may be used by Rocky View County and
for future promotional purposes, however
full rights for all photographic submissions are completely retained by the respective contributing photographers. Branded Visuals
retain the rights to display the winning canvas print in their gallery for up to one month following the publication of the Summer
2012 issue of
.
7
Philippe Widling is a professional nature photographer whose work
has been widely published in magazines, newspapers, calendars,
postcards, books and on web pages around the world.
Rob McKay is a Calgary-based professional nature photographer who
also provides several mainstream photography services such as fashion,
agricultural, architectural, commercial, executive portraiture and stock.
He is the contributor
of the impromptu and
candid interview (page
18) with Bragg Creek
residents, Tim Mitchell
and Pat Cardinal, two
locally-renowned “singing
cowboys.”
This issue marks Rob’s
first featured article for us.
In Champions of the Sky
(page 35) he showcases
some of his spectacular
action raptor photography
and explains his ongoing
passion for birds of prey.
As a keen photographer
of K-Country and all of
its surrounding regions,
Philippe works out of Calgary, but he is also a frequent world traveller,
which has allowed him to build up a substantial road-trip gallery
viewable at www.pwidling-photography.com, along with a multitude
of his past galleries.
In his popular Birds of
Prey workshops, Rob
effectively teaches the
specific avian photography techniques required to capture
the unique beauty of these fantastic birds. You can view the
full list of available workshops and book your reservation at:
www.robmckayphotography.com
Philippe is available for assignments both locally and worldwide: email
him at [email protected] or find stock images at www.designpics.com
Contact Rob at: [email protected] – (403) 700 1264 or visit
www.robmckayphotography.com for DSLR workshops details and his blog.
In addition to being our resident photographer,
Dr. Robert Berdan also regularly contributes
to other publications such as Photo Life,
Gilles Korent, a nature and wildlife
photographer based in Calgary, is the
contributor of this issue's enchanting Every
Based in Redwood Meadows just east
of Bragg Creek, Chris Martin has been a
featured contributor since our second issue.
Outdoor Nature Photographer and Canadian
Geographic, and serves as assistant professor
at the University of Calgary. He runs his own
multimedia business, Science & Art, offering
royalty-free CDs, prints, photography and
video services, computer training and website
development. For this issue, Robert provided
photography for the informative article, The
Bragg Creek Opportunity, on page 24.
Picture Tells a Story article, titled A Living
Watercolour, on page 48.
His passion for the natural world is reflected
in his photographic pursuits, favouring
intimate portraits of Bragg Creek wildlife and
the majestic drama of the Rocky Mountains.
www.canadiannaturephotographer.com
[email protected] – (403) 247 2457
8
Gilles works primarily in the Calgary area and
throughout the foothills of Alberta, allowing
him to combine photography and his passion
for the outdoors.
A selection of his prints is available at the
Branded Visuals Wildlife Gallery in Bragg
Creek or via his website.
www.wildlife-expressions.com
A Seasonal Perspective of Bragg Creek and Kananaskis
It’s winter time in Bragg Creek and Kananaskis – the skies are
blue, the air crisp, and the sun is shining on all that glorious
white snow. This is one of the best times of year to get out
and take in everything that this amazing area has to offer:
skiing, sledding, ice skating, hockey, hiking and even riding!
Get active and bring a smile to everyone’s face, even our fourlegged friends!
Chris’ wildlife photography and dramatic
Rocky Mountain landscapes are found
in personal collections, businesses and
magazines across North America. He is
available for group or individual workshops,
commissioned shoots and commercial
photography.
Prints are available via Branded Visuals
Wildlife Gallery in Bragg Creek or his website.
www.christophermartinphotography.com
[email protected] – (403) 880 2411
Gerry Ambury
Robert runs practical workshops and one-on-one
training for all skill levels throughout the year,
covering a wide variety of wildlife, flora and fauna
subject matter. Contact him directly regarding his
upcoming workshops and online courses.
His impressive wildlife photographs effectively
portray the unique personalities of each
subject in their natural environment, and are
a testament to his patience, precision and
dedication to the art of photography.
Viewpoint
_________________________________________________________
Robert Berdan
Photograph by Derya Kahraman
Featured Contributors
Main photograph: Smith-Dorrien Creek, heavily
iced during the winter months, with Mount Black Prince
in the background. Inset: a couple of wild horses sharing
a lighthearted moment.
9
Brad Pajot
Kananaskis is constantly evolving in
step with the everchanging external
developments. Spray Lakes Reservoir
(right) was initially a string of separate
lakes along the Spray River, which
were joined together in 1950 with the
damming of the river. Located between
Goat Range and the Three Sisters ridge
at an elevation of 1,720 metres, it is fed
by multiple waterways, including Bryant
Creek, Turbulent Creek, Currie Creek and
Smuts Creek.
The Spray River drains the lake and
empties into the Bow River at Canmore,
about 10 kilometres downstream.
Now a popular recreation area lying
within Kananaskis Provincial Park,
Spray Lakes is a favourite destination
spot for locals and visitors alike, widely
renowned as one of the most beautiful
locations in the Rockies.
________________________________________
10
Devin Featherstone
Chris Martin
Connie Singer
Gerry Ambury
Chris Martin
Freda Montague
Andrew Kulin
This spread, counter-clockwise from top
right: the obvious appeal of the Spray
Lakes Reservoir; Elbow Falls’ beauty
(next two photographs) is as abundant
in winter as in other seasons; with the
entire mountain blanketed in thick snow,
Banded Peak lives up to its name; a
White-tail Deer dramatically silhouetted
by a glowing peach sky; greenery
breaking through the snow heralds
the beginning of spring; the instantlyrecognizable Canada Goose;
adding some festive cheer.
11
The outdoor rink, located directly beside the Community
Centre, doubles as a basketball court and general activity area,
including a skateboard park, during the rest of the year. The
organized hockey league offers Tyke, Novice, Atom and Bantam
divisions in this most Canadian of sports, played just as hockey
was meant to be played: in a gorgeous, natural outdoor setting!
Christine Robertson
Karen McConnell
John Kearsley
Joanne Bennett
Ken Johnson
Because of its picturesque location, Bragg Creek is the
ideal base for enjoying the great outdoors. The Bragg Creek
Community Centre, located in the heart of the hamlet, is a
convenient resource for the residents of both Bragg Creek
and Redwood Meadows, as well as an accurate reflection of
the vibrant community spirit. The Bragg Creek Community
Association operates year-round activities such as hockey, ice
skating, tennis and fitness training, to name a few.
____________________________________________________________
12
This page, clockwise from above: when you gotta go, you gotta
go ... even if you’re a squirrel; a recent snowfall dusts a couple
of White-tail Deer; Canada’s favourite sport played on Bragg
Creek’s popular outdoor rink; see no evil, hear no evil, speak no
evil; experimenting with the effects of cold snow and hot coals.
Joanne Bennett
Opposite page: ice clings to surface elements in spectacular
fashion on Galatea Creek.
13
Common throughout the upper reaches
of North America, the Great Grey Owl
is also found in Finland and northern
Asia. With the largest facial disc of any
raptor, its lack of ear tufts and extreme
height, it is truly a sight to behold! Adults
have a grey face, bright yellow eyes, and
live near open areas in dense coniferous
forests. Not being nest-builders, they
opt to use other large birds’ nests or trees
with broken tops and large cavities instead.
Connie Singer
Nesting usually occurs from March to May,
with the average clutch size producing four
eggs. After 30 days of incubation, brooding
lasts another two to three weeks before the
young begin to jump, or fall, from the nest.
Even after they begin flying, the offspring
may remain nearby for many more months.
While Great Grey Owls are numerous
globally, the 100 birds remaining in the
Sierra Nevada mountains are listed under
the California Endangered Species Act.
Opposite page from top: a Varied Thrush takes
cover; a curious Least Weasel emerges after a
heavy snowfall; enjoying a nice cold drink ... of
snow; a mirror image of Kananaskis.
Gilles Korent
This page: Rocky Mountain Sheep and Great
Grey Owls are abundant throughout K-Country.
Gilles Korent
Gerry Ambury
Chris Martin
Emma Garforth-Bles
_________________________________________
14
15
Connie Singer
Chad Beegan
Kailie Sykes
Clive Cordery
Although we may feel that the Rocky
Mountains are synonymous with and unique
to Alberta, the entire range runs 4,830
kilometres from northern British Columbia
down through the U.S. to its southernmost
point in northern New Mexico.
Robert Berdan
It is believed that this spectacular mountain
range was formed by an extensive period of
mountain-building that occurred sometime
between 35 and 80 million years ago.
Today, the resulting peaks and valleys
provide dramatic backdrops for numerous
outdoor activities and seemingly infinite
vantage points, confirming why the Rockies
are a true natural wonder of the world.
_________________________________________
This page: the view of Elpoca
Mountain from Pocaterra ski trail.
16
Opposite spread, from top: the quintessential
Rocky Mountain vista; the luscious green valley
contrasts dramatically with the snow-capped
mountains; a broken, mysterious cabin on Fawn
Hills Drive; the foothills from Highway 22.
17
A tall thin man pushes the swinging doors and enters the saloon.
Not wanting to interrupt the scene, he nods and quietly takes a
seat at a small table, while Tim Mitchell and Pat Cardinal strum
the last chords of their western song.
As they lower their guitars, the last notes of the song fade into
the temporary silence enveloping the big room, with Mitchell and
Cardinal each helping themselves to a steaming mug of dark coffee.
Their hands wrapped around the hot mugs, they begin fondly
reminiscing aloud about their life on the road, music, and a Bragg
Creek that few of the hamlet’s current residents know much about.
The
Powderhorn Song
The dark wooden floor of the Powderhorn Saloon is still wet at 10 o’clock in
the morning, gleaming in the dimly-lit establishment. As a young lady finishes
mopping the floor over in the corner, two cowboys at the bar are strumming
acoustic guitars, their voices filling the saloon with the lyrics of a song they
penned a few years back: “Time to sing some country cowboy songs to those
Bragg Creek friends of mine …”
Cardinal has lived in Bragg Creek his entire life. His grandmother
used to live just behind the round hall, where pictures of a fiveyear-old Cardinal holding a guitar bring back memories from
another era.
“When I was young, I didn’t realize we were poor; I thought we
were camping,” recalls Cardinal, who grew up in a tent pitched
across the street from the Husky gas station. “Life was tough – it
was hard living, hard drinking, and hard dying.
“But we left a mark. This mall we’re sitting in right now: I cleared
the trees to build it,” Cardinal relates.
Born in South Dakota, where his dad hails from, Mitchell was
raised in the Black Diamond/Turner Valley area south of Calgary.
“I rodeoed when I was younger, but I decided that I wasn’t gonna
make no money doing that, just break some bones. I had the urge
to see the country, so I decided to truck,” Mitchell recounts. “A
few years ago, some three-and-a-half-million miles later, I said,
‘That’s it, I’m done driving.’
____________________________________________________________________________
Tim Mitchell (left) and Pat Cardinal perform a local favourite.
Interview and photography by Philippe Widling.
18
19
“I was about eight years old when I
started playing guitar. I asked my dad, a
professional musician who ran a dance
hall in Northern Alberta, to teach me,”
relates Mitchell. “And with my uncle
being a fiddle player, as Hank Jr. would
sing it: ‘It’s a family tradition!’
“I quit guitar before because I had lost the
feeling for it, but Pat pulled me back into it.”
“My love for horses is what originally
brought me here,” he continues. “About
11 years ago I came to help a friend to
look after some horses in Bragg Creek.
After he left I started outfitting, but five
years ago I sold all the horses and started
playing some guitar again.
“He plays the chords but he doesn’t know
what they’re called,” chuckles Mitchell.
“That’s when I came along,” Cardinal
picks up. “I can’t read music and he can.
I’m surprised I’ve been able to do it this
long without being able to read a note.”
A young waitress in jeans and a straw hat
strolls by to top up the coffee mugs, while
another man enters through the swinging
doors and joins the saloon’s first guest of
the day at the corner table. By now, country
music is steadily piping through speakers
on top of the stage opposite the bar.
“I’d go visit him at the old mustang ranch
that he had behind the community centre,”
recounts Cardinal, “and every time I’d
go and have coffee with him, that damn
guitar would be looking at me. So I’d grab
and strum it. When I missed any chords,
he’d go, ‘No, you’re missing a chord.’
“So I’d say, ‘What is it?’, and he would
say he didn’t want to play anymore, but he
really had no choice but to show me.
REALIZE your VISION
“So finally the gig was up, and pretty soon afterwards both
guitars came out for good. That’s how we met – through drinking
and our of love for music.
“Tim already knew a lot of the old songs; he loved the old songs
of Merl Haggard, George Jones … the real country music.
“So pretty soon Tim started playing our music and sharing our
lifestyle. We get people coming in here from Calgary, who
would see these two cowboys playing acoustic guitars in the
Powderhorn Saloon, and they would go, ‘Whoa, it’s like walking
into a movie set!’”
Cardinal asserts: “Well, my life has been like a movie set. I’ve lived
a life that most people only read about or watch in movies.
“I rode buffaloes at the Calgary Stampede when I was a kid. I
rode steers, I rode bulls and I played country music everywhere I
rodeoed.
“I’ve been pretty blessed, you know,” Cardinal reflects, “albeit
sometimes I think I’ve been cursed too, and possessed. Some
days I can’t move from rodeoing. I can’t get up and it hurts –
that’s the cursed part.”
Technically precise design, exquisitely
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20
(403) 519-5221
[email protected]
www.timberwolffdesigns.ca
From single rooms to entire homes, I
personally guarantee that we’ll turn your
vision into something that you’ll cherish
for years to come.
Rod Wolff
Adds Mitchell: “Pat’s written a number of his own songs, and we’ve
both done some recording. We started at the Ranchman’s years
ago, what’s now known as the ‘Cowboy Church.’”
_________________________________________________________________
Tim and Pat are often found casually strumming their guitars
around the Bragg Creek mall ... inside and out.
21
Cardinal explains: “On Sunday mornings, we’d be looking for a
place to eat, because we didn’t want to cook breakfast. So we’d
come in and bring the guitars. To walk in and see two cowboys
sitting at the bar, playing acoustic guitars and singing old country
music songs and cowboy songs … you can’t really buy that today
– it’s a really cool thing!
“That’s why we wrote the Powderhorn Song – it’s about the
people in here and us playing – and this song became sort of
famous around here. People would come in and say, ‘Play that
Powderhorn Song, I want my friends to hear it.’”
“We’ve got a lot of history here [but] life in Bragg Creek is very
different now. I can imagine some of these kids around here
today saying one day, ‘Remember those old cowboys who used
to come and sing in here?’ One day we’re going to be part of that
history too.”
Philippe Widling
_____________________________________________________________________
Nature & Travel Photographer
_____________________________________________________________
Based in Calgary, Alberta, Philippe Widling’s photographs
have been published in books, magazines, newspapers,
calendars, postcards, and web pages around the world.
Watch the video of Tim and Pat at Bragg Creek days at
www.braggcreek.tv/video13
Philippe photographs nature, landscapes and wildlife,
mostly around Calgary, Kananaskis, and the Canadian
Rockies in Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.
Philippe’s location work has taken him as far as Mount
Everest’s Base Camp in the Himalayas, Nepal. He also
regularly visits and photographs in the United States,
Europe and, recently, Argentina.
Interview recorded at the Powderhorn Saloon in Bragg Creek
by Philippe Widling
Stock images available at: www.istockphoto.com and
www.designpics.com
W E B S I T E
www.pwidling-photography.com
Cardinal continues: “A lot of my songs come from the rodeo,
being an Indian, being a cowboy. I used to wear braids and a
cowboy hat. In high-school, one of my teachers asked me, ‘Pat,
you wear braids, you wear a cowboy hat, what are you? Are
you a cowboy or are you an Indian?’
CO N TACT
[email protected]
“And so I wrote a song called Indians and Cowboys,”
he chuckles. “Inspiration often comes from everyday
life and everyday situations. It is often about the sun
still coming up, people still falling in love, people
getting into a fight, people still liking to drink …”
“I’m Cree, I dance Pow-Wow, I grew up a traditional
person my whole life – fishing and hunting, which I
still do to this day. When you drive into Bragg Creek
on that number 8 Highway and you see the malls,
the cars, the new businesses, the opportunities,
the nature ... I see a very different Bragg Creek.
I see home, and for my family it’s been home
for 100 years. It’s got a special place in my
heart.”
22
Rocher Percé, Quebec, at dawn.
“And people still falling out of love too,” Mitchell
deadpans as Cardinal pauses to take a sip from his
coffee mug, quickly rejoining the conversation.
23
As a global energy superpower, the City of Calgary is expected
to double its population to over three million people by 2050,
with this extraordinary growth being largely driven by the fact
that Calgary is the epicentre of Canada’s vast strength in the
hydrocarbon sector.
While global markets remain shaky due to crushing sovereign
debt, Canada is widely considered an investment safe haven – in
large part thanks to Alberta’s energy industry fueling the country’s
continued economic growth.
It is often said that people from Calgary work hard and play
hard; and when it’s time to play, many head right for Kananaskis
Country, Alberta’s only provincial mountain park and its very own
Crown jewel.
The Bragg Creek Opportunity
Calling Artists,
Investors and
Entrepreneurs
A combination of beauty, location and
timing make Bragg Creek an outstanding
investment right now
__________________________________________________________
Article by Dwayne Zaba
Photography by Dr. Robert Berdan
24
Officially designated in 1976 by former Alberta premier Peter
Lougheed, this 4,200 square-kilometre, world-class forestry
reserve begins its vast sprawl at Bragg Creek, only half-an-hour
west of Calgary, and extends directly into the world-renowned
Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park.
Kananaskis Country was intentionally created to provide Albertans
with a place to recharge their batteries, and as Calgary begins to
reach its full potential, the appeal of this one-of-a-kind, natural
recreation Mecca will increase exponentially.
When I met Peter Lougheed last summer, he told me that he and
his team always envisioned a second Kananaskis Village. Bragg
Creek’s strategic proximity to both Calgary and Kananaskis
Country certainly makes it ideally positioned to fulfill that
pioneering vision.
Bragg Creek is the closest gateway to Kananaskis Country for the
vast majority of Calgary residents, and by keeping commercial
development outside of Kananaskis Country, the picturesque
hamlet is also the most ecologically sound ‘second village’ option.
Bragg Creek provides Calgary residents with three major access
routes to Kananaskis: a 30-minute drive from the south end of
Calgary via Highway 22X; a 30-minute ride from the city’s west
end via Highway 8; and a 35-minute drive from the city’s north end
via Highway 1.
The combination of Bragg Creek’s direct adjacency to Kananaskis
Country and the triple access it affords to Calgary makes it
the natural staging area for Calgary residents wishing to enjoy
Kananaskis Country.
25
The Bragg Creek Opportunity
To: Lake Louise
and Banff
The combination of beauty, location and timing make
Bragg Creek an outstanding investment right now:
1
8
To: Calgary West
Location – Only 20 minutes west of Calgary, Canada’s
economic growth epicentre; a 50-minute drive to the
Calgary International Airport; and directly adjacent to
Kananaskis Country.
Surrounded by a growing number of affluent people
and routinely attracting big-spending visitors from
around the world, Bragg Creek offers an unrivaled
staging area for countless outdoor adventures such
as hiking, cycling, skiing, canoeing, kayaking, horseriding and more, making it destined to become a
true, world-class resort town.
RIVER
Moreover, the proximity of a growing number of highincome earners with avid interest in the arts provides
Bragg Creek with extraordinary potential to develop
into a world-class centre for performing arts, drawing
art-lovers and culture connoisseurs from Calgary’s
west end and far beyond.
Bragg Creek is quite literally a diamond in the rough,
offering entrepreneurs a unique once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity to play a direct role in the responsible
development of Canada’s most desirable, newlyemerging model of a resort town for the 21st Century.
Please call us if you would like to discuss Bragg
Creek’s potential: We will be glad to help you realize
an outstanding return on your investment.
FORREST
_________________________________________________________
Watch a video tour of Bragg Creek:
www.braggcreek.net/video16
N
22
W
R ive
r
0 0.5 1 1.5 2
Kilometres
Bragg Creek
Provincial Park
66
E
S
To: West Bragg Creek
Provincial Park
and K-Country
Elb o
w
MOUNTAINS
Beauty – Located in the Rocky Mountain front ranges
and set in one of the most stunning forests in the
world, with the sparkling, crystal-clear Elbow River
running directly through Bragg Creek.
Timing – Calgary is embarking on an era of
unprecedented growth and prosperity, and Bragg
Creek has just commenced work on a major communal
water and sewage infrastructure investment to enable
larger-scale commercial development.
26
To: Calgary Airport and
Calgary North
To: Calgary South
22X
To: Elbow Falls
and K-Country
Distance/Travel Times from Bragg Creek
Key
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Destination
Calgary North
Calgary West
Calgary South
Calgary Airport
Elbow Falls
Banff
Lake Louise
kms
38
32
30
65
22
115
173
mins
25
20
19
50
15
1.25hrs
1.75hrs
Destination times and distances are approximate
___________________________________________________________________________________
Bragg Creek Inquiries
Rocky View Inquiries
A 5-Star Retreat offering
Accommodation, incl. gourmet
breakfast and Function Facilities:
• Wedding Ceremonies
• Sponsored Functions*:
- Presentations
- Concerts
- Art Exhibits
• Corporate Events*
• Movie/Fashion industry events
• Group Photo Sessions*
*Extra charges apply. Minimum of one night stay required.
Ask about our elegantly presented Gift Certificates
104 White Avenue,
Bragg Creek, AB, T0L 0K0
BANDED PEAK
Communications
Dwayne Zaba
Publisher, Bragg-About the Creek
(403) 949 3400
[email protected]
Dave Kalinchuck
Economic Development Manager
(403) 230 1401
[email protected]
(403) 835-6032
www.riversidechateau.com
27
Bison - Photo by Gilles Korent
Barred Owl - Photo by Wayne Lynch
Living
the
Dream
The outdoor patio of this 10,000-square-foot
executive home – located in the prestigious
Elkana Estates – sets the scene for a wealth of
premium features contained within: from the
fully-equipped chef’s kitchen to the plethora
of premium recreational facilities, such as the
custom-built indoor lap pool and squash court.
With the hamlet of Bragg Creek just a short walk
away, what else could you ask for?
28
29
A stunning walkout hillside bungalow with
panoramic views
With a creek meandering through it, this scenic property
is adjacent to a stunning, 100-acre environmental reserve
that features a hiking path up Two-Pine Hill – the highest
elevation point in the Bragg Creek area – providing
panoramic views of both the Kananaskis and Banff
mountain ranges.
Located a mere 20-minute drive west of Calgary, Bragg Creek
is the quintessential retreat community for busy business
executives working in the fast-growing metropolis. No matter
where your business is located in Calgary, it’s easy to get to
Bragg Creek via one of three available routes, with Highway
22X providing access to the city’s south end; Highway 8 leading
into city centre; and Highway 1 crossing the city’s north end and
connecting with the newly-extended Stoney Trail, providing
50-minute access to the Calgary International Airport.
Offering a fine example of the extraordinary lifestyle Bragg
Creek affords to business executives, this stunning hillside
bungalow in Elkana Estates – one of the most sought-after
neighbourhoods in Bragg Creek – is located within walking
distance to all the amenities located in the hamlet.
The beautiful home – custom-designed by Down + Livesey
Architects in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright – features over
10,000 square feet of living space, including an indoor lap pool
and squash court, home theatre, wine cellar, chef’s kitchen, a
spacious family game-room, two executive home-offices, and a
grand master bedroom suite complete with a spa-like, eight-piece
en-suite bathroom. A state-of-the-art control system, featuring
an i-server home network, employs user-friendly touch panels to
enable full control of the custom lighting, blinds, heat and wholehome audio systems throughout the expansive house.
30
31
WESTERN LIVING STORE
Offering Tomorrow’s Heirlooms
Cadillac Side Chair with Tight Back
& Ottoman - shown in Hair-on Hide
Visit our Gallery: Art, Bronze, Rugs, Jewellery
Jane Seymour Furniture • Terri Clark Licensed Headwear
Hand-Tooled Saddle Leather • Home-Cooked Bakery
Lunches • Soups • Coffee • Desserts including our specialty Lemon-Meringue Pie
Work hard – play hard.
After a hard day’s work in one
of the two executive home-offices
(above), it’s time to work up a sweat
in the fully-equipped gym, the indoor
lap pool, the spacious game-room,
or the personal squash court.
Offering unrivaled contemporary luxury
right in the heart of Bragg Creek, this
stunning property features beautiful
terraced landscaping that seamlessly
integrates into the surrounding woodlands,
offering an opportunity to enjoy luxurious
modern elegance in one of the most
idyllic natural settings in the world.
Just imagine living less than a half-hour
drive from Calgary and right next to
Kananaskis Country – a 4,200-squarekilometre, world-class forestry reserve
that extends directly into Banff National
Park. Inaugurated in 1976 by the
Honourable Peter Lougheed to provide
Albertans with a natural wilderness area
to recharge their batteries, Kananaskis
Country offers everything to fast-moving
Calgary business executives looking for
that perfect place to call home.
_______________________________________
Video tour of this property available
at: www.braggcreek.net/304
216 Main Street (1st St West)
Box 1297, Cochrane, AB T4C 1B3
32
[email protected] • 403-932-2121
www.hqmercantile.com
33
Champions
of the
Sky
With many ‘Bird of Prey’ species so prevalent throughout Bragg
Creek and Kananaskis, it seemed only natural for us to dedicate
an entire article to them. In this feature from one of our regular
contributors, Rob McKay, we showcase some of his spectacular
avian photography, along with Rob’s personal insights explaining
why raptors are his favourite subject matter.
_________________________________________________________
34
Prairie Falcons are fast-flying, open-country birds of prey
famous for attaining high speeds as they dive from high
altitudes to knock pursued birds out of the air.
35
Snowy Owl
My love of avian photography stems from an early age, when
I would accompany my grandfather, Ralph Hayes, an avid
bird-watcher and hunter, on his trademark long nature walks.
I quickly developed a keen fascination and became hooked
on identifying all types of birds, but I specifically became
drawn to the raptors – seeking them out at great distance
and carefully observing their behaviour.
Rather than always trying to photograph the whole bird,
focusing on a specific feature, such as their talons,
can produce captivating results.
Great Grey Owl
Eventually, simply watching them wasn’t enough: I had to
photograph these magnificent birds of prey! So I purchased
my first DSLR camera and immediately started trying to
capture the majesty of these spectacular birds, as they
danced around the skies.
I soon realized that my preferred in-flight
photos were images that are uniquely
different: a strange twist or arch in their torso,
or a penetrating glare from their intense eyes.
Action shots are what it’s all about for me:
not the usual slow-motion glide. I want fastmoving, acrobatic in-flight photos.
______________________________________________________________
36
Great Grey Owls, who like to hunt from perches close to the
ground, are slower flyers than other smaller, faster raptors.
Prairie Falcons are consistently fast flyers who rarely soar. In
comparison, Swainson’s and Red-tailed Hawks prefer to soar
high on hot-air thermals, searching for small game far below.
Rough-Legged Hawk
Swainson’s Hawk
It is always worthwhile studying a specific species’ unique
hunting style, as it often determines their flight patterns.
37
I always shoot handheld because I feel
somewhat tied down when using a
tripod – you can’t swing into action as
fast – and in fact I don’t even own one.
I prefer a heavy 300-mm f/2.8 lens on
a cropped sensor DSLR body – giving
me a total focal length of 450 mm.
The longer lens isn’t an issue once
you get used to it. To get more reach,
teleconverters are an option, but keep
in mind that they will slow down the
focusing speed of your lens.
Northern Hawk Owl
Manual exposure works best for me
with a good fast-focusing camera
and lens combo, using a single autofocus point. Staying away from the
auto exposure settings like aperture
priority and shutter priority has
generally allowed me to create better
images for many reasons, but I’m not
going to go into them here.
Getting close enough to owls, hawks, falcons and other
raptors to get a decent shot is the tough part. Therefore get
out in the field as much as possible, whatever the weather, to
make your own luck, rather than sitting at home and waiting
for the perfect day.
A good plan of attack is to continually practice your in-flight
photography skills on ducks, pigeons and seagulls. This not
only improves your photography know-how, but also gets
you familiar with the often erratic movement of the birds,
making it easier to anticipate their actions. So when the
opportunity arises to shoot a spectacular raptor in perfect
light, you’ll be suitably prepared. Practice, practice, practice.
First-year birds of prey are usually easier to approach because
they have not yet developed a real fear of humans. Sadly,
many of these birds will not survive to their second year for
various reasons, with starvation being the main culprit.
Fledgling Great Horned Owl
Camera settings can be overwhelming.
I use about 10 per cent of what my
digital camera is capable of simply
because that’s all I need.
Fall migration is the best time to see large numbers of raptors
heading south for the winter, offering great opportunities for
some in-flight photography work. If you prefer more static
subjects, you’ll also find plenty of Swainson’s and Red-tailed
Hawks lining the telephone poles for miles around.
While some birds are migrating away from us, other
raptors are moving in for the winter, including the Snowy
Owls, the Northern Hawk Owls and, of course, the Roughlegged Hawks. These birds of prey can be observed locally
from about November through to April, although this can
obviously fluctuate slightly from year to year.
We are fortunate to have a good number of Great Grey Owls
making their home in the Bragg Creek area. These large
owls are expert mousers, fairly tame in nature, and often
hunt using fence posts as their hunting platform. This fencepost sitting preference often provides an unexpected bonus
for avian photographers. It’s significantly easier to find and
photograph a Great Grey Owl on a close fence post than a
small Hawk Owl perched in a distant pine tree.
____________________________________________________________
38
Migration also takes a heavy toll on young hawks, such as
Swainson’s and Red-tailed Hawks. Unfortunately, 80 per cent of
them do not survive their first migration.
Rough-legged Hawk
Swainson’s Hawk
Although raptors top their respective food chains, their survival
in early years is definitely not guaranteed. Depending on the
size of the species, first-year birds may need to consume three
to 10 mice per day simply to survive.
39
Rob McKay
_____________________________________________________
Winter months offer great lighting throughout the day
because the sun is low in the sky. At other times of the year,
I try to shoot either in the morning or late afternoon to avoid
the high-overhead, midday sun.
Finally, a key thing to remember when photographing birds of
prey: Never approach active nest sites or trespass on private
property. If a bird is upset by your presence – obviously
displaying aggression or fear – you are too close, meaning
you could scare parent birds away from a nest, or spook a
PHOTO GR A PH Y
single bird away from a prime hunting location. Either of
these scenarios could adversely affect their survival rates, not
to mention possibly provoke an uncharacteristic attack.
_____________________________________________________________
R A P TO R
Rob McKay is a professional nature and wildlife photographer
who specializes in birds of prey.
Based in Calgary, Rob McKay provides popular group
workshops throughout the year. Specifically geared
to photographing birds of prey, many of these
workshops are fully-booked well in advance. He
also provides four-hour photography workshops on a
personal one-on-one basis, conveniently on-location, at
various local parks across Calgary.
Hoar frost and frozen partridge blood on the face of this male
Rough-legged Hawk (above) shows his determination, and
ability, to hunt even in extreme -30˚C temperatures.
E N T H US I A S T
Visit www.robmckayphotography.com for more
information and to read his blog.
W E B S I T E
Dragon
L A N D S E RV I CE S
( B R AG G CR E E K ) LT D
Over 25 years of experience in the landscape
industry creating unique Residential and
Commercial outdoor spaces. Serving
Bragg Creek, the Foothills and Calgary.
Family-based Business
Reliable Quality and Service
Customized Landscape Construction
Complimentary Consultation
Legendary Solutions
for Outdoor Living
40
(4 0 3 ) 949 33 2 7
www.dragonlandservices.com
Adult Great Horned Owl Hiding in the forest at dusk
www.robmckayphotography.com
CO N TACT
[email protected]
(403) 700 1264
41
L EISURE L AKE D RIVE W EST
At the end of a private tree-lined lane, this custom home, built by
Beckedorf, is perfectly set among the towering evergreens on a
sunny eight acres.
This property offers privacy, a subtle rustic luxury, and unlimited
opportunity to enjoy nature at its most spectacular. Bordering on
expansive reserve lands, this country haven affords peace and quiet
within the community of Leisure Lake – only 15 minutes from Calgary.
Allow nature to nurture your spirit with hiking and crosscountry
skiing; peek at the muskrats as you skate on the clear, frozen lake;
awake in the morning to the haunting distant call of the loons; enjoy
the passing families of ducks and tundra swans; and marvel at the
wonder of life as deer give birth in your own backyard. Imagine
the breathtaking natural beauty of the community the residents
endearingly refer to as “Neighbour Heaven.”
East Bragg Creek
5 Bedrooms
8 Acres
3 Bathrooms
Offered at $997,000 • Property tour
2,630+ sq. ft.
3-Car Garage
www.braggcreek.net/60
L EISURE L AKE B AY
Embrace the freedom of living on this expansive lakeside property
comprised of enchanting mixed forest and surrounded by spectacular
flora and fauna. Wake up to the symphony of the songbirds, the earthy
smell of the forest and sweet aroma of the bountiful wildflowers.
the haunting call of the loons.
Experience the freedom of riding your horse through the open spaces.
Choose solitude or be part of the fun-filled community festivities,
including community skating parties on the lake, cross-country skiing
Imagine walking through your own private gate onto an environmental around the municipal reserve land, canoeing and neighbourhood hay
reserve that cradles walking paths around Leisure Lake, and taking rides. This is an exceptional opportunity to own a spectacular lakefront
time to relax on the conveniently located benches to appreciate the property only a 15-minute drive from Calgary.
beauty of nature. Feast your eyes on the deer as they nibble on the
East Bragg Creek
24 Acres
Bare Land
vegetation, the moose giving birth on the island, and the entertaining
Offered at $799,000 • Property tour
www.braggcreek.net/172
procession of a wide variety of winged creatures – all while taking in
42
W EST B RAGG C REEK
Peaceful and private, the towering evergreens that define this
charming lane magically lead you to this exceptional custom log
home, built by Beckedorf. This Douglas Fir cabin, with glowing
logs, is perfectly designed to inspire heart-warming times.
on the surrounding forest. As day gives way to twilight, and the
star-studded blanket of the pitch-black sky comes alive, imagine
being with family and friends gathered around a blazing campfire.
This property is the perfect retreat in the woods: only 25 minutes
from Calgary and five minutes to both the wilderness playground
The open-concept living space, along with seamless integration of of Kananaskis Country and the charming hamlet of Bragg Creek.
country charm and modern convenience, provides an ideal counterWest Bragg Creek
4 Acres
1,518+ sq. ft.
balance to the hustle and bustle of life. The expansive, southwest3
Bedrooms
2
Bathrooms
2-Car
Heated Garage
facing deck allows you to commune with nature and wildlife, while
the bright sun streaming through the trees paints elusive shadows
Offered at $780,000 • Property tour
www.braggcreek.net/303
S OUTH B RAGG C REEK
Build your dream home on this incredible 23-acre hideaway located in
Pine Ridge Estates. The sunny, private property boasts a southwestfacing plateau that offers beautifully serene long-distance views in
every direction, capturing the stunning sunrises and breathtaking
sunsets.
walking distance to Kananaskis Country – a 4,200-square-kilometre,
world-class wilderness paradise. The property has a drilled well and a
roughed-in road leading to the designated building staging site, with
all other utility services available at the property line.
Create the amazing country lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of – only
Feel the magic and inspiration of an enchanting old-growth forest a half-hour drive from Calgary.
– a mix of pine, spruce and aspen that is home to a wide array of
flora and fauna – including a spectacular assortment of wild alpine
South Bragg Creek
23 Acres
Bare Land
flowers. Boasting a fantastic location, the property is located only
five minutes south of the charming hamlet of Bragg Creek and within
Offered at $580,000 • Property tour
www.braggcreek.net/319
43
E LK VALLEY C RESCENT
Embraced by tall trees and tucked away at the end of a private, paved
laneway, this intriguingly unassuming, grand estate-home boasts a
large outdoor deck to allow you to marvel at the beauty of the majestic
natural surroundings, enjoy the abundance of sunshine flooding
the backyard, and observe the diverse wildlife as they approach a
meandering creek bordering this park-like property.
Backing onto an 80-acre environmental reserve that provides a vast
natural extension to the home’s own backyard – all within a five-
F ORESTRY W AY
minute drive to the hiking and ski trails of the wilderness playground
of Kananaskis and the quaint hamlet of Bragg Creek, and a 25-minute
drive to the outskirts of Calgary – this is a truly magical and inspiring
place to call home.
West Bragg Creek
5 Bedrooms
2 Acres
5 Bathrooms
Offered at $968,000 • Property tour
2,217+ sq. ft.
3-Car Garage
www.braggcreek.net/323
Summer Camp Registration
starts February 15
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in a an adjacent hay shed, with a sand-based riding arena and automatic
horse-waterers making it a true equestrian heaven. Imagine spending
lifestyle that embraces old-world charm and peaceful country living.
the day adventuring in your own wilderness playground and returning
Cradled in a sunny valley, this impressive eight-acre property
to the warmth of the glowing embers in the custom river-rock fireplace
seamlessly blends into the captivating splendour of the surrounding
all within the natural grandeur of your charming country home.
natural landscape and lies within easy walking distance to Kananaskis
Country, providing the quintessential ideal retreat for horse-lovers and The property is comprised of 2, individually titled, 4-acre properties.
outdoor enthusiasts.
The property features wood fencing and cross-fencing, a radiant-heated
four-stall barn with a tack room, self-contained water system and
West Bragg Creek
3 Bedrooms
8 Acres
3 Bathrooms
Offered at $990,000 • Property tour
2,307 sq. ft.
2-Car Garage, Barn
www.braggcreek.net/271
Where Work Meets
Businesses, leaders and managers that leverage and stimulate learning
have an edge in the marketplace and bring out the best in their people.
At Inside Out Experience we utilize an array of original activities which
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you rejuvenate, relax and unwind with your employees or clients.
Specialized
Specialized summer
summer camp
camp programs
programs for
for youth
youth and
and adults
adults
with
with disabilities,
disabilities, special
special needs
needs and
and serious
serious illnesses.
illnesses.
Located
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just west
west of
of Bragg
Bragg Creek.
Creek.
44
For
For more
more information
information visit
visit easterseals.ab.ca
easterseals.ab.ca
Find
us
on
@EScamphorizon
&
Find us on
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We bring people from the inside out.
Specializing in:
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Activities include:
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map & compass work
snowshoeing
[email protected] (403)949-3305 www.insideoutexperience.com
45
W EST B RAGG C REEK
Let the beauty of nature inspire you! Build your dream home on the
sunny, southwest-facing, gently rolling hills of West Bragg Creek.
Experience a harmony of contrasts as you are embraced by the
strength of the forest amidst a backdrop of delicate wildflowers.
Be charmed by endearing encounters with families of deer, moose
and winged visitors who return year after year.
Nestled in the splendour of the Rocky Mountain foothills, this
private, peaceful, park-like five acres is close to all amenities of
the hamlet of Bragg Creek, and lies within easy hiking and crosscountry skiing distance to the wilderness playground of Kananaskis.
West Bragg Creek
5 Acres
Offered at $375,000 • Property tour
s
Cre
t
cen
Wh
lace
it e P
Park Place
Park Point
A
M ile
it e
it age
Avenu
e – Her
www.braggcreek.net/99
Wh
W hite
Bare Land
N
Access to residential lot via Park Place
r
Rive
w
Elbo
W
E
97 White Avenue Property
B
Access Points to Property
A
B
S
Commercial Lot
Residential Lot
Bragg Creek Provincial Park
W HITE A VENUE
This 4.2-acre property is comprised of a 1.1-acre commercial lot that your entrepreneurial dreams on the commercially-zoned lot fronting
fronts onto White Avenue – the oldest commercial street in Bragg on to Bragg Creek's Heritage Mile! This property offers unique and
Creek – and a 3.1-acre residential lot backing directly onto the Bragg outstanding value; call us for your personal guided tour.
Creek Provincial Park.
Imagine building your dream home on a huge private acreage in
the heart of Bragg Creek amid towering evergreens, while fulfilling
46
Bragg Creek Hamlet
4 Acres
Offered at $750,000 • Property tour
Bare Land
www.braggcreek.net/217
47
Every Picture Tells a Story
A Living
Watercolour
by Gilles Korent
It is midweek in late October. The leaves are showing their
autumn colours and are well on their way to disappearing. Even
though it is still too early to think about winter, the forecast
is calling for a light dusting of snow in the next few days. It
is getting windy, and this late in the season the last of the
remaining leaves could be gone in no time.
It is now mid-morning, and the appearance of the landscape
quickly changes as the light breeze begins to chase the pockets
of fog away. Near and far, the undulating landscape mystically
appears and disappears in tune with the constantly changing
mist. Because this magical dance is not going to last long, I need
to stop, absorb and record this majestic scene, so I take out my
Nikon D300 and start shooting.
Early Saturday morning arrives, as the snow blankets the ground.
After a quick bite to eat, I’m off on one of my regular fall outings
– somewhere in Kananaskis Country – searching for moose,
deer, and maybe a late-season bear. Regardless of what I may
encounter, I’m anticipating an enjoyable trip. Maybe I’ll spend
some time with a Great Grey Owl ... if I can find one.
The few leaves that remain on the trees are unveiled to reveal a
subdued palette of colours standing out against the whitewashed
landscape. As the sun struggles to break through the fog to
highlight the beauty of the sporadic foliage, the scene becomes
reminiscent of a living watercolour painting.
As I drive through the rolling hills just outside Calgary, I’m taken
aback by the solemn beauty brought about by another change of
seasons. I seem to be the only one on the road, and this heavy
blanket of fog and mist gives the landscape a mysterious and
eerie feeling. It is thick – so thick that you can hardly discern the
nearby hillsides – but thankfully the road remains clear.
As late morning arrives, the warmth of the sun and the light wind
have completely cleared out the fog blanket – returning everything
back to ‘normal.’ I find a good spot to park, eat my small lunch
and reflect on the experience. I may not have encountered any
moose, deer or pre-hibernation bears, but I did enjoy another one
of nature’s many wonders: a quiet and painterly morning.
_______________________________________________________________
Gilles Korent is a nature and wildlife photographer based in
Calgary. A selection of his prints are available at the Branded
Visuals Wildlife Gallery in Bragg Creek, as well as via his website:
www.wildlife-expressions.com
48
49
The Economic Edge
An edited excerpt from the Calgary Real Estate Board’s Economic Outlook – January 2012
Alberta will remain the Canadian leader in terms of economic growth,
based on the strength of the energy industry. Despite short-term
volatility in the energy markets, long-term growth prospects for the
industry remain strong and will continue to be a source of wealth and
employment growth for the province for years to come.
With the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) prices having recovered to
their pre-recession levels – owing to growth in demand from emerging
economies around the world – oil prices are expected to average $91.13
per barrel in 2012. That is well above levels that would be considered
problematic to the Alberta energy sector, considering that most oilsands
investments are profitable at oil prices averaging over $80 per barrel.
While economic growth is anticipated to be sluggish next year for most
of the advanced economies, world oil prices are projected to remain at
high levels over the long term, prompting many companies to reactivate
their temporarily shelved expansion plans and thus generate substantial
employment growth throughout the province of Alberta.
With Calgary being the energy hub of Canada, strength in the energy
sector will continue to stimulate growth throughout all sectors in the
Calgary region. The rising GDP growth will generate increased demand
for labour, boosting disposable incomes, increasing net migration to
Calgary, and fueling rising consumer spending – thus providing many
beneficial spinoffs across all local economic sectors.
A move in the right direction
CALGARY CMA GDP GROWTH
18.00%
Forecast
6.00%
4.00%
2.00%
0.00%
Gainfully employed
CALGARY CMA TOTAL EMPLOYMENT
Y/Y%
Average Annual Employed
10.00%
Forecast
8.00%
750,000
6.00%
700,000
4.00%
650,000
2.00%
600,000
0.00%
550,000
-2.00%
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
% Change (Y/Y)
Total Employment
500,000
Seasonally Adjusted Data, 3 month moving average
Source: Statistics Canada, Conference Board of Canada Forecast
The sales of single-family homes have already started on the path of
slow recovery, with average prices expected to increase a modest 2.4 per
cent in 2012. Given the underlying strength in commodities, the Alberta
economy will continue to grow, supported in large part by strong gains
in the energy sector. While some short-term volatility is to be expected
in the larger context of global economic uncertainty, the local economy
is expected to continue to grow and drive further gains in employment
and migration in the Calgary region, providing the catalyst for a thriving
local housing market.
“Worth The Long Wait” 40 x 60 inches
Acrylic on canvas by David Langevin
Ecomony and affordability making Calgary attractive
-4.00%
CALGARY CMA NET MIGRATION
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
GDP Growth
Source: Statistics Canada, Conference Board of Canada Forecast
Driven by renewed business investment in Calgary, 2011 figures
substantiate a strong economic recovery, with employment growth
boosting the housing sector throughout the coming year. Despite global
economic concerns, total employment is forecast to rise by three per
cent in 2012 – not only recovering the jobs lost during the recession,
but also creating new positions across a growing number of companies.
In fact, some industries are reportedly already concerned about the
potential of skilled-labour shortages limiting economic expansion and
driving up wages.
25,000
23,000
21,000
19,000
17,000
15,000
13,000
11,000
9,000
7,000
5,000
Forecast
in the coolest place.
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009 2010
2011
2012
2013
Source: Statistics Canada, Conference Board of Canada adjustment, Conference Board of Canada Forecast
For 2011, migration is estimated to soar to levels similar to those
recorded in 2006. Calgary’s strong economy, impressive employment
To view
complete
report prepared by Ann-Marie Lurie,
finea wide
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artthesince
1987
opportunities, and general affordabilityPurveyors
will continue toof
attract
Senior Economist at the Calgary Real Estate Board, go to:
range of job-seekers from both domestic
and international
With beauty
www.braggcreek.net/economicoutlook112
Showcasing
the sources.
wondrous
of nature as seen
through the diverse eyes of Western Canada’s most talented artists.
contributors; Rocky View County; CrossIron Mills; Branded Visuals; Annwho contributed to this edition of
Marie Lurie and the Calgary Real Estate Board; our loyal advertisers;
: Philippe Widling; Rob Mckay; Gilles
BraggDr.Creek
Village
16 White
Ave. Bragg
Creek, AB.
Phone:
(403)
949 3777
www.alicatgallery.com
White
Elephant
Marketing;
George- Guidoni.
Korent;
Robert
Berdan;Centre,
Chris Martin;
our amateur
photography
Thank
50
Heat things up…
Calgary’s job growth, the area is expected to continue to sustain strong
migration levels, providing a significant boost to the housing sector in
terms of buoyant sales activity across all sectors. Moving into 2012, we
anticipate the volume of home sales to increase by 13 per cent during
the year, reflecting strong employment and migration gains and their
positive impact on the sales of single-family homes.
-2.00%
-6.00%
800,000
you
to
all
Just west of Calgary, the enchanting Hamlet of Bragg
Creek is the perfect outdoor escape for an adventurefilled outing with the kids. Watch their faces glow with
excitement as they go tobogganing down the hill. Make
snow angels in the fresh white powder. And warm up by
a cozy fire with some hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Looking for a near-perfect getaway that’s not too far from
home? Look no further than beautiful Bragg Creek.
www.rockyview.ca
51
Farewell to Rick Butler
I am both saddened and honoured to write this tribute to our
friend and colleague, Rick Butler.
Rick brought an endearing enthusiasm to the community of
Bragg Creek, and he dedicated his astute mind, experience
and heart to the needs of the people within his constituency.
He helped us see beyond our differences and inspired us to
realize our potential. Rick poured his heart and soul into
everything he did and, as a result, made many significant
contributions to the betterment of our community.
You were a great man, Rick. Thank you for your commitment,
leadership and friendship.
We miss you.
Dwayne Zaba
Rick’s family has established a foundation to honour his
passion for community leadership. For details please visit
www.rickbutler.ca
52