Brian Jessel Magazine 2023 Winter Edition by Jessel Magazine (Brian Jessel BMW)

2023 | FALL / W I N TER E D I TI O N

Beedie Rocks - Behind the scenes of ‘the’ live music event of the summer of 2023

Amar Doman Bringing a new breed of ownership to the BC Lions

Honour House - A ‘Home away from Home’ for First Responders, Military Personnel and Veterans

Bill Vigars on ‘Terry and Me’; chronicling Terry Fox and the ‘Marathon of Hope’.

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CLASSIC DESIGN MEETS EXOTIC OPULENCE Living better, living richer – why not have a space all your own where you love to be?

21 J OE LEARY'S EDITORS NOTE Welcoming you to a Special Collector’s Edition Number 5 of Brian Jessel BMW Magazine.

"BEEDIE ROCKS"— AND CHARITIES BENEFIT Behind the scenes at the Beedie Rocks festival in Stanley Park, featuring Bryan Adams as headliner; the legendary Blondie; former Go-Go’s singer Belinda Carlisle; Irish rockers “Inhaler”; and Juno Award-winning locals “Dear Rouge”.

42 B J COOK AND THE LIFE OF A CANADIAN ROCK CLASSIC

Skylark recently acknowledged with induction into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame.

46 B LUE FROG STUDIOS State-of-the-art concert theatre venue and recording studio that draws rave reviews from all who attend and perform there.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contents Cont'd

WAVE 98.3 – VANCOUVER’S COOLEST VIBE Now in its second year on the air, Wave 98.3 FM is a major player of the “New Adult Contemporary” format.

56 A MAR DOMAN – A NEW BREED OF OWNER

B.C. Lions owner; a business titan and founder of one of Canada’s largest and fastest-growing companies.

62 R YAN GAULD OF THE

VANCOUVER WHITECAPS

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

KYLE BUKAUSKAS – CAMPBELL RIVER’S OWN ON HOCKEY NIGHT IN CANADA Hockey Night in Canada's impeccably attired and articulate Kyle Bukauskas is expanding his profile on Canada’s flagship sports program.

72 V ANCOUVER CIVIC THEATRES An invaluable arts and culture hub in our city, committed to serving both patrons and artists alike.

78 R AY AYOTTE – MAKING WORLD CLASS DRUMS

A master drum maker and master percussionist whose sounds have been coveted and engaged by bands all over the world.

84 “ GOLDEN BOY” JERRY

TRIMBLE STILL SHINES

TERRY AND ME: THE INSIDE STORY OF TERRY FOX Terry Fox was just 21 years old and 58 days into his journey when Bill Vigars joined him, halfway between Montreal and Drummondville, Quebec.

97 O UR CITY TONIGHT ALOUETTE BISTRO

Chef Albert Tran tells us more lighter, sweet selections allow you to taste a range of flavours.

98 C HEERS! SANS ALCOHOL!

Dynamic and forceful on the pitch; equal parts gracious and engaging away from it.

Inspired by the legendary martial artist and actor, Trimble immersed himself in martial arts at fourteen years old.

Bottoms up! Alcohol-free drinks are having a moment – remove the booze without sacrificing the flavour.

108 140 162

“THE MICHAELS” - VANCOUVER PRODUCING TANDEM CREATES NEW HORROR MOVIE FRANCHISE “Don’t Look Away,” Vancouver Producing tandem, "The Michaels," on creating a new horror movie franchise.

114 B RENT BUTT Add “novelist” to the list of Brent Butt credits; his first foray into the literary world with Huge, an unexpectedly dark and twisted thriller.

122 T HE GENIUS OF MARIE CLEMENTS

Bones of Crows, now a CBC mini-series, is the latest work from the much-awarded Métis/ Dene filmmaker, playwright, screenwriter, composer, director and producer.

CHANCE HURSTFIELD – A STAR ON THE RISE

The Vancouver-born actor easily qualifies– already–as a showbiz veteran

146 N EW WESTMINSTER’S ‘HONOUR HOUSE’

GLOBAL WATCH COMPANY With over a quarter-century experience in the jewellery industry, Global Watch Company has become a major influence.

A home away from home for Canadian Armed Forces veterans, emergency services personnel, first responders and their families.

166 J ESSEL EVENT PAGES

152 T HE PENTHOUSE NIGHTCLUB

Look for yourself in the Event Pages; If there was a Master of Events in Metro Vancouver, it would be Abdel Awwad at Brian Jessel BMW.

- A RICH HISTORY WITH A TWINGE OF MYSTERY

Celebrity guests included Sylvester Stallone, Halle Berry, the late Ray Liotta: The Penthouse Nightclub serves as a shrine to the ‘who’s who’ of the giants of showbiz.

174 L IGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION British Columbia: Canada’s largest foreign production hub and North America’s fourthlargest centre for motion picture production.

134 T OM CARTER – SHOWCASING 158 G A CHECKPOINT CELEBRATES 176 S UMMER IN THE CITY… FIFTY YEARS

Vancouver as people remember it, or as we wish we remembered it, full of live music.

Outdoor lifestyle through motorsports and marine at its finest.

What could be more iconic than Vancouver’s summer festivals? One part epic weather, one part voracious appetite for all things fun.

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VANCOUVER THROUGH ART

Celebrating 25 Years

Jennifer Kostuik Gallery features paintings, collage, sculpture (wall mounted/free standing) and all photography formats. Artists are local, from across Canada, the USA and Europe. Professional services include art renderings in pictures of your wall space, delivery, installation, shipping worldwide and expertise in special art commissions.

Finding art is a discovery of a new relationship.

CLASSIC DESIGN MEETS EXOTIC OPULENCE by Harris Van Inkwell Media

Classic design meets exotic opulence. French cabriole legs and exquisite metal ormolu sporting an exuberant peacock feather surface. Displayed in “Love Happens Magazine” as one of the top 7 design trends in the 2020’s, this one being home office spaces.

“The mind sets the mood and the mood creates success”

Living better, living richer, why not have a space all your own where you love to be, as opposed to the sterile, linoleum, reeking of Clorox spray and violated by the night cleaners. Then judged by your superiors as a place to be occupied, not enjoyed. Full-time, part-time, some of the time? Who isn’t working from home or has toyed with the idea with all its benefits, the best being an excuse to update an important part of your home. Setting aside a little nook, room or attic space for an office is now more than a luxury but a necessity.

19 JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

This home office design featuring the Exotic Ormolu desk by Koket grabs the olive green out of the more popular colours of the decade, others are burnt orange and rich yellows. These opulent looking colours aren’t limited to walls but find themselves living on the furniture, wall art and even flooring. Under a clear glass top, this Koket design boldly displays iridescent peacock feathers selected from a vast textile collection. Capped off with a high gloss black lacquer finish and gold-plated grass Ormolu Accents.

Ryan and Cindy Beedie and Jim Murray, CEO and Managing Partner, Brian Jessel BMW

EDITOR'S NOTE

Joe Leary, Editor, Brian Jessel BMW Magazine Photos by Jozef Povazan

Those are the words of singer Jackson Browne in his ode to the road, ‘The Load Out/Stay’ released in 1977. Gracing our cover and our feature story in this Fall/Winter 2023 issue are Ryan and Cindy Beedie of Beedie Development. From taking the stage of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre for our cover fun, we’ll take you backstage and behind the scenes of “Beedie Rocks,” the biennial, day-long rock festival that took place in August in Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl. The event remains a key social element and fundraiser among Beedie Development’s commitment to philanthropic work. 2023 proved to be another huge success, showcasing a concert lineup that featured Bryan Adams, Blondie and Belinda Carlisle, among others. Elsewhere within this issue: you’ll meet teen actor, Chance Hurstfield, who has literally grown up in front of the camera and amassed an impressive body of film,

TV and voice work along the way. ‘Our City Tonight’s’ Jim Gordon and Leeta Liepens pay a visit to Vancouver’s Alouette Bistro and Executive Chef, Albert Tran. Tech entrepreneur Mike Agerbo talks Chat GPT (Generative Pre-Trained Transformer); the chat-bot that launched in 2022 and is absolutely revolutionizing the written word. We’ll introduce you to Kyle Bukauskas of Sportsnet and ‘”Hockey Night in Canada”—learn how a local Campbell River kid made his way to becoming one of the hosts of such iconic Canadiana.

And we’ll share the incredible story of Honour House and Honour Ranch, two remarkable facilities created by visionary Al De Genova. You’ll learn about this “home away from home” for first responders, military personnel and veterans seeking medical attention and services in the Vancouver area. We are extremely excited to present our latest edition of Jessel. Enjoy!

Bill Vigars shares his memories of Terry Fox in his new book, Terry and Me. As an Ambassador of the Canadian Cancer Society, Bill was alongside the Canadian hero during his legendary “Marathon of Hope” run across Canada in 1980. You’ll meet singer/songwriter BJ Cook who, along with music producer David Foster, created one of Canada’s most treasured classic songs, “Wildflower.” The band, Skylark, along with Foster, was recently inducted into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame.

21 JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

“NOW THE SEATS ARE ALL EMPTY LET THE ROADIES TAKE THE STAGE PACK IT UP AND TEAR IT DOWN”

President Brian Jessel Managing Partner and CEO Jim Murray Sales & Marketing Manager Abdel Karim Awwad Brian Jessel BMW Marketing team @LaureCaceres @raziehMotiei Published by Inkwell Magazines Managing Editor Joe Leary Magazine Design White Canvas Design Contributing Editors Joe Leary Lin Stranberg Contributing Writers Joe Leary Lin Stranberg Cover Story Team Ryan and Cindy Beedie Jozef Povazan photographer Farrah Sanei hair and makeup Arezoo Aliperti styling Contributing Photographers Jozef Povazan Dylan Dufault Jacob Couture Luke Morrey Translation Provided by Caroline Yao Iris Yim Sindy Lau 22

Published by Brian Jessel BMW 2311 Boundary Road, Vancouver, BC V5M4W5

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

© Brian Jessel BMW 2023. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited editorial material. Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of BMW Canada Inc.  @jesselmagazine

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023 24

BEEDIE ROCKS– AND CHARITIES BENEFIT Story by Joe Leary Photos by Said Aziz

That very concept alone poses a daunting task. And if that indeed is your plan, how do you go about making it happen, given that logistically, you need to build an entire rock festival infrastructure within a limited framework? Further, you want to add in a secondary stage for local support acts; enlist a multitude of curated food and beverage concession

options; and create a uniquely branded T-shirt, designed by internationally acclaimed artist Tiko Kerr, as part of a souvenir gift bag. As for the guest list, you want to extend complimentary invitations to a few thousand of your employees, clients, tenants, trades, colleagues and friends, all in the name of benefitting a select charity. That pretty much encapsulates “Beedie Rocks,” the biannual fundraising concert spectacular that began in 2016 as “Rock ’N the Park. After being rebranded in 2020 to its current identity, Rocks,” the first postCOVID event in this ongoing series took place August 12, 2023 in Malkin Bowl.

25 JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

magine having the thought of hosting your own major rock music festival, replete with a roster of superstar talent, and setting it amid the pastoral splendor of one of Vancouver’s most treasured local environments: Stanley Park.

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Top: Ryan and Cindy Beedie backstage with Elijah Hewson of ‘Inhaler’ Right: Paul Runnals of BRANDLive is Executive Producer of ‘Beedie Rocks’

It was a true rock fest experience—and easily became the most sought-after ticket in town.

From that conversation, a major concert event would soon spring to life.

Real estate developer and philanthropist Ryan Beedie, CEO of Beedie Development, one of Canada’s largest private industrial developers and property managers, and his wife, Cindy, are the masterminds behind this day-long rock spectacle. They take an extremely active and hands-on role in pulling off what is, without question, the ultimate Vancouver summertime concert event.

“I thought it would be a great opportunity to thank our employees; tenants; our trades; anyone connected to this company, and connected to me and my wife, Cindy,” adds Beedie. “It initially started as a thank-you to all of you for making our company. I knew it would be a lot of work but I love to host events, I love to celebrate, and it’s basically just like some big party. I wasn’t discouraged by the work involved as it sounded like it would be a lot of fun.”

winning locals “Dear Rouge” on the bill. The addition of a secondary stage this year presented concertgoers with homegrown talent: Port Moody’s Tyson Venegas. The teen singing sensation literally wowed the “American Idol” judging panel and finished within the “Top 12” finalists during this past season.

THE CONCEPT So where exactly did the concept of “Beedie Rocks” originate? A self-described “music nut,” Ryan Beedie recalls the moment the idea of such an ambitious undertaking in Stanley Park first presented itself. “I won’t take credit for it, but I’m pretty sure I remember it being the summer of 2015,” says Beedie, recalling the initial discussion of staging a branded, corporate event of such magnitude. “My wife and I had just come back from the annual Coachella Festival and were at the company picnic. Cindy and I were having a chat with Jason Tonin, our vice president of land development, and he suggested we do a festival. I loved the idea!”

The Beedie folk are well familiar with fun social gatherings through their own personal experiences over the years. “We’ve thrown events in the past that involved music, including my 40th birthday—so we knew that we had the right people in place at BrandLIVE who have done tons of festivals. It wasn’t like we were starting from scratch. We knew they could handle it.” But given such an undertaking, Beedie was also aware there would be challenges, be it civic politics or ecological concerns and the like. “I think, looking back, the negative stuff fades away and you just look at the positives,” he reflects. “In general, that first event was maybe a little bit easier than I thought it would be because BrandLIVE already had the relationship with the Park Board and the people in Stanley Park. They knew how to navigate those challenges.”

27 JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

While previous rosters have included Billy Idol and The Killers at the top of the marquee, this year’s star-studded line-up featured Bryan Adams as headliner, the legendary Blondie; former Go-Go’s singer Belinda Carlisle; Irish rockers “Inhaler”; and Juno Award-

Beedie Rocks Cont'd

“The BrandLIVE crew virtually move heaven and earth to make the event happen seamlessly.” JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Left: Juno Award winner, Hornmeister Gabriel Mark Hasselbach and his all star Jazz Band

BEEDIE ROCKS– THE SETUP Projects like “Beedie Rocks” are a mammoth undertaking, and concert events of this magnitude don’t just happen—they’re planned down to the smallest detail. Founded by Paul Runnals and partner Catherine, BrandLIVE has produced countless events in Vancouver and around BC, including concerts, major music festivals, award shows, the annual Celebration of Light fireworks and myriad corporate events and fundraising galas, all since its inception in 1994. As partner and senior vice president of creative and production, Paul serves as executive producer of “Beedie Rocks.” This man has been around the track more than a few times over the years, and his duties touch absolutely every single aspect of making pure “event magic.” It’s an all-encompassing role.

“I am responsible for all of the talent booking, staging, production and operational elements,” he says of ‘Beedie Rocks,’ “as well as the licensing and permitting, working through the relationships I’ve built with the City and Park Board over many years of producing events. “I kind of have a foot in both of these worlds.” Having begun his career working in theatre, Runnals went on to take a different path, opting instead for the touring world of rock and roll, where one of his earliest jobs was as a lighting technician on Sarah McLachlan’s 1993 “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy” tour. He would then help manage her worldwide tours for almost fifteen years, along with those of Prince, INXS, The Tragically Hip, Avril Lavigne and numerous others. When Ryan Beedie approached Runnals to have BrandLIVE produce the initial Rock ’N the Park concept, the response was an immediate yes.

29 JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Enter BrandLIVE, an award-winning event and sponsorship agency based in Vancouver.

Beedie Rocks Cont'd

Top Left: Ryan Beedie backstage with Brian Jessel Managing Partner, Jim Murray Bottom Left: Dear Rouge singer, Danielle McTaggart Right: Singer, Belinda Carlisle

“Ryan had this idea that he wanted to put an event on, and I was the connector, able to get access to Malkin Bowl during the summer season of ‘Theatre under the Stars,’ as I have an excellent relationship with that organization. “The broader conversation was that we didn’t just want to use Malkin Bowl. We wanted to use the Stanley Park Pavilion and the Gardens as well, and connect them all into one larger site. That was me leveraging and working the relationships that I have with the park staff.” While old hat to someone with Runnals’s experience, the task of staging such an event is daunting. Planning is done well in advance and covers every single detail. “Any festival takes a full year to plan, sometimes longer, as was the case with the 2018 SKOOKUM Festival that BrandLIVE produced in Stanley Park. “In the case of ‘Beedie Rocks,’ despite the fact it’s a complicated event with a significant budget, it’s at an existing venue so we’re programming bands into a space that already has a stage but we’re also adding other elements to it.

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

“It’s not as complex as starting with a grass field site that has nothing on it, but still involves bringing in a significant amount of additional site infrastructure to expand the footprint and capacity beyond the typical setup. “The first edition back in 2016 took over a year to plan, but it doesn’t take any less time now, because we keep growing it and adding new elements. The East Meadow field where the second stage is now located

was a new addition this year, and we also moved the main catering tent over there.” To say that a lot needs to occur within a very limited timeframe is an understatement. The BrandLIVE crew virtually move heaven and earth to make the event happen seamlessly. “Inside Malkin Bowl there’s an incredible amount of work that needs to happen within a 12-hour period because we only get access to the venue at 6 am,” says Runnals. “By 6 pm, we’ve got Bryan Adams’s crew onstage wanting to soundcheck. So we have to transition from a fully-built ‘Theatre under the Stars’ environment, and remove all of their scenery, seating and front of house facilities, and load all of our concert equipment in within those 12 hours.” BrandLIVE is responsible for absolutely everything behind the scenes of “Beedie Rocks,” from making travel and flight arrangements for the artists to booking hotels and transporting the performers to and from the venue. This is all done with their full-time workforce of sixteen people, plus the addition of parttime staff that they utilize when they resource their specific projects. “We infill where we need to with freelance contractors,” he adds. As for the exact number of people involved to make “Beedie Rocks” the success it is—the answer is many! “If you include security, food and beverage people, front of house and backstage personnel, IATSE stagehands and so on, it’s anywhere from 400-500,” says Runnals

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023 31

Beedie Rocks Cont'd

Above: Jessel Magazine Managing Editor talks with ‘American Idol’ contestant, Tyson Venegas

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Below: Ryan Beedie explains the concept of ‘Beedie Rocks’

Left: ‘American Idol’ contestant, Tyson Venegas

Left: 'Blondie' backstage at ‘Beedie Rocks’

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Beedie Rocks Cont'd

Right: Newlyweds, Jim Murray and Linda Mah, bask under the ‘Beedie Rocks’ Neon Glow

THE BENEFICIARY For this year’s event, the Greater Vancouver Food Bank was selected as a first-time recipient of “Beedie Rocks.” “We have always focused on different organizations we support, like the ‘One Campaign,’ and previously, the YWCA,” says Beedie. “This time we chose the food bank as they’re a tenant of ours and we have a really good relationship. We’ve been really inspired by their incredible work and I thought ‘what a great platform for the wonderful work they’re doing,’ and ‘let’s educate the people,’ and it’s something I think that everyone can get behind.” “Beedie Rocks 2023” raised a whopping $2 million for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. The need couldn’t be greater. Statistically, some 17,000 people per month utilize the Food Bank via direct distribution, while tens of thousands of others do so additionally through the organization’s 138 affiliated agency partners. Sadly, those numbers continue to rise.

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

“Very much so,” acknowledges David Long, CEO of Greater Vancouver Food Bank, of the increasing dependence on their organization amid growing food insecurity throughout the Lower Mainland. “We have gone from 6500 people (needing our services) per month to 17,000 — in just five years,” he notes. “Last year alone we distributed nine million pounds of food.” Contributions from charitable endeavors such as “Beedie Rocks” are essential to provide sustenance to those in need (Beedie double-matched every donation). As demand for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank hampers this year has been unprecedented, David Long is

extremely appreciative for the Beedies’ much-valued contribution. “We are so grateful to Cindy and Ryan for their support and generosity,” he says. “The Beedie organization—from top to bottom —is first class and every interaction we have with the Beedie team is a positive one.” While the Greater Vancouver Food Bank is this year’s sole financial beneficiary, the contribution is merely a fraction of the organization’s ongoing community involvement. Primary among their corporate initiatives is Ryan’s latest philanthropic project, Beedie Luminaries. Maintaining that your past doesn’t define your future, the Beedie Luminaries program is a scholarship designed specifically for students facing financial adversity and constrained by circumstance. It embodies the “Built for Good” philosophy that drives Beedie’s corporate world and philanthropic commitments. “It was Ryan’s experience growing up in Burnaby and seeing friends who did not have the same opportunities to pursue post-secondary education as he did that motivated him to establish the foundation,” says Beedie Luminaries executive director, Martina Meckova. The registered foundation and non-profit society was created in 2018 with an initial $50 million personal donation from Beedie to coincide with his 50th birthday. To date, Beedie Luminaries has awarded 625 scholarships valued at $44,000 each to Grade 12 students; students who are single parents; refugee students; and graduate students in British Columbia. That alone tops $27 million!

In addition to financial support, every Beedie Luminary becomes part of a strong, diverse and well-connected support network that helps them reach their full potential. It is a personal project that removes barriers while empowering those seeking higher education, providing financial support to those who are without means and facing adversity. “Beedie Luminaries represent the diverse communities we live in,” adds Meckova. “They are selected for their academic merit and their ability to demonstrate resilience, creativity, critical thinking, empathy and purpose. These are individuals chosen for their potential to improve the world around them and their ability to contribute to a growing community. They are true luminaries.”

“‘Beedie Rocks 2023’ raised a whopping $2 million for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. The need couldn't be greater.”

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023 35

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Beedie Rocks Cont'd

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JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023 38

Beedie Rocks Cont'd

THE LEGACY AND BEYOND

His past philanthropic work has already earned him multiple awards and acknowledgements, including the prestigious Order of British Columbia. Additionally, the Burnaby-born developer was duly recognized earlier this year, being named “Business Leader of the Year 2023” by the esteemed Canadian Chamber of Commerce. And while any of those accolades alone may seem enough for a person to pull back on the reins, you simply don’t know this organization. Beedie is poised to continually add further; planning the next fundraising event already; configuring the benefactors; and perhaps, more immediately, drawing up the ideal roster of talent for “Beedie Rocks 2025.” It begs the question: Are the names of artists that will ultimately fill the bill of the next roster already being considered?

“It’s funny you should ask because, yes,” he states. “I thought to myself after we had The Killers, how do you top that? “I told people, you don’t—and I’m not going to try because you can’t —there’s got to be an endpoint. “And this time with Bryan Adams, people thought that was great, but what do you do next time that’s maybe not equivalent but kind of in the same area? Just so long as we make each event memorable. What’s better than Bryan Adams in Stanley Park? One can only imagine the potential line-up that’s being considered and the names swirling around in the mind of Ryan Beedie, this far in advance of the next event, slated for 2025. 39

“That’s a conversation for another day,” he says, “but it’ll be good.” And, knowing Beedie—it’ll rock!

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Philanthropy remains a vital element of the Beedie story and its ensuing legacy. Beedie has already contributed in excess of $100 million to a number of charitable endeavors over the years, including BC Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House. And 2023 has been another banner year for Ryan Beedie, both personally and professionally.

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Beedie Rocks Cont'd

Left: Jessel Magazine Managing Editor backstage at ‘Beedie Rocks'

Above: Singer, Belinda Carlisle

JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

BJ COOK AND THE LIFE OF A CANADIAN ROCK CLASSIC. JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Story by Joe Leary Photos by Quinn Bender

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Let her cry for she’s a lady, Let her dream, for she’s a child. Let the rain fall down upon her, She’s a free and gentle ﬂower growing wild. ‘Wildﬂower’ – Skylark Capitol Records 1973

ince its release fifty years ago, the song “Wildflower” has become ingrained among our country’s musical mosaic.

Today, it proudly holds a distinct place of honour in Canadian recording history. The group responsible for this musical gem, Skylark, was recently acknowledged with induction into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame. Written by David Richardson and Doug Edwards and with soulful vocals performed by the late Donny Gerrard, “Wildflower” rocketed up the charts in 1973 and has since become enshrined as a classic rock radio staple since. Victoria-based ‘Skylark’ became the breeding ground for esteemed music producer David Foster, but it was his bandmate and soon-to-be wife, BJ Cook, who was the impetus that ultimately led to the group’s recording success. BJ is a trailblazer in the British Columbia music scene, having performed as both showgirl and nightclub singer throughout the sixties, opening for Johnny Cash and Della Reese, before joining forces with the legendary Ronnie Hawkins. While in Edmonton she teamed up with Foster, before moving back to Vancouver and forming Skylark.

“David had just been fired from the Ronnie Hawkins band because, to quote Ronnie, ‘Son, you play like Beethoven but you look like a cadaver on stage. This is a rock and roll band, son, so I’m gonna have to fire ya!’” The Hawks were the nucleus of Skylark, and when talk of forming their own band occurred, Foster had caveats in terms of personnel. “David announced he wanted three singers in the band – he had a concept, sort of,” says Cook. “Hey, I’m a good singer, but I ain’t Celine Dion and I love singing harmony, so I was in. We auditioned a few singers, but when Donny Gerrard was available, one rehearsal - we knew he was the one.” Were it not for Cook’s persistence, the song —and possibly the band—would not exist, as BJ’s connections led the demos to Capitol Records and an eventual move down south. “I had gone to Los Angeles and met a really stand-up guy named Dino Airale and he really tried to get me discovered, so I did tons of auditions,” she recalls.“I eventually went back home to Vancouver but stayed in touch with Dino and when we put Skylark together and recorded a bunch of stuff, I sent it to him.” Airale would take it to Capitol Records, where it caught the attention of Grammy and Emmy Award-winning producer Barry DeVorzon and a deal was done!

The song gained airplay on local Detroit radio stations, where one fateful night it caught the ear of Rosalie Tremblay, the legendary Music Director of CKLW — ‘The Big 8,’ the revered Windsor, Ontario operation known for a powerful signal that blanketed several key US markets. It was also considered Detroit’s biggest and most influential radio station. CKLW became a gateway for Canadian recording artists to gain exposure to American audiences. Tremblay gave it a shot in the arm through radio play. Without her there may not be a “Wildflower,” but without BJ Cook, there may not be a Skylark.

Cook and Foster married in 1972, resulting in the birth of their daughter, Amy Skylark Foster. She is an accomplished songwriter in her own right, having written multiple hit songs for Michael Bublé.

that’s just the original Skylark version. It has seen countless covers, from soul artists The O’Jay’s, Color Me Badd and crooner Johnny Mathis, to being sampled by rap and hip-hop icons 2Pac, Kanye West and Eminem.

After the pair went their separate ways, BJ continued composing music with Foster, Michael McDonald, Chicago keyboardist Bill Champlin and singer, songwriter/producer, Brenda Russell.

Now 81, BJ Cook is an inspiration to aspiring to a new generation. And though the early days of the music industry may have been maledominated, she didn’t let that stand in her way.

David Foster would ultimately find fame as a multi-Grammy Award-winning music producer, composer and arranger. BJ and Foster remain close and were recently co-celebrated during their BC Entertainment Hall of Fame induction. “Wildflower” endures as a fixture on radio playlists for 50 years and counting – and

“Never felt discrimination,” says BJ. “When you sit in a dressing room with a bunch of guys, working dives, and listen to them talk about their lives for years, instead of being offended or insulted by the stuff that goes on in the ‘locker room,’ it gave me a sense of power.I never let the fact that I was a woman get in my way. Not ever.”

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“Wildflower” was the second single released from the group’s self-titled album, a record that saw the previous single go virtually unnoticed.

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BLUE FROG STUDIOS by Joe Leary Photos supplied by Blue Frog Studios

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Nestled in the beachside resort town of White Rock lies a state-of-the-art concert theatre venue and recording studio that draws rave reviews from all who attend and perform there.

“It is such a picturesque, artsy town by the sea, similar to other West Coast beach towns like Carmel, California. It seemed like a perfect spot for musicians to create and thrive.” It’s known as Blue Frog Studios, and has been a fixture in the community since opening its doors in February, 2010. Kelly Breaks remembers it well, as he was setting up the studio and saw one of the Olympic Flames torchbearers passing by. Known for its world-class sound and lighting system and a 4K audio and video facility that can comfortably accommodate an 80-piece orchestra, Blue Frog stands as a beacon in recording technology. Despite its international acclaim, what was it that made White Rock the ideal location? “There was an amazing recording studio there called ‘Rock Beach,’ which I had done work in as a music producer,” says Breaks. “I got word that the studio had closed down, so I approached the owners and made a deal to take it over.

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“It seemed like a natural, as I was born in White Rock and grew up there. It is such a picturesque, artsy town by the sea, similar to other West Coast beach towns like Carmel, California. It seemed like a perfect spot for musicians to create and thrive.” And that it has.

From its original mandate as a recording venue, it has since morphed into a full-on recording and concert space. The 5000 square foot facility intimately accommodates and seats 100 studio audience members for a unique, up-close and personal experience. “When we first opened, we were a 100% recording facility,” he adds. “In the fall of 2010 we heard that Grammy Award-winner Dan Hill (‘Sometimes When We Touch’) was heading to the West Coast. We booked Dan to come in and do this cool singer-songwriter concert within the studio, and talk about the back stories of what was behind his hit songs. “We printed up some tickets, and poof, they were sold out in a day, so we asked Dan if he could do a second show the next night. We knew that we were on to something so we started doing monthly shows, then twice monthly, and then weekly. Now, the live shows are 80% of our business.” No longer a hidden gem, Blue Frog Studios have earned accolades internationally for their myriad performances. “There have been so many highlights over the years,” says Breaks. “From Grammy and JUNO Award stars to emerging new artists that we see as they start their music careers.

Dan Hill was a highlight, Randy Bachman, Alfie Zappacosta, Jim Byrnes, 54-40, Maria Muldaur (‘Midnight At the Oasis’), Juice Newton (‘Angel of the Morning’)… the list goes on and on. I love getting to know them and seeing that they are mostly just ordinary people that are out there following their passion for music.” Blue Frog Studios offers amazing concert sound, both live and online, and it’s the latter that has really taken off in terms of growth. “In April 2014 we did our very first global live streaming concert in conjunction with World Earth Day with Jefferson Starship. It was a lot of work but it showed us the future, where we could have a live show audience and simultaneously stream to the comfort of your home. We’ve done hundreds of streamed shows since on our Blue Frog TV channel.”

No longer a hidden gem, Blue Frog Studios have earned accolades internationally for their myriad performances.

The Stage at Blue Frog Studios

Blue Frog Owners Kelly Breaks (L) and Juanita Moffat (R) with country music star Lisa Brokop (C)

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Mary and Doug Kirk of Broadcasting

WAVE 98.3 VANCOUVER'S COOLEST VIBE Story by Joe Leary Photos supplied by WAVE 98.3

Launched in July 2022, Vancouver’s newest radio station is owned and operated by Durham Radio Inc., an independent Ontariobased group comprised of seven radio stations. Vancouver’s Coolest Vibe, now in its second year on the air, is part of the “New Adult Contemporary” format.

Owners Doug and Mary Kirk are thrilled at its warm reception within the local radio landscape. It’s a labour of love, as it gives them the chance to showcase artists—particularly exceptional Canadian artists—whom other radio stations have largely ignored. “We love the artists that we’re presenting and we recognize the importance of THE WAVE for these amazing Canadian talents who get little to no airplay anywhere else,” says Mary Kirk. “A lot of them have really developed their careers after being introduced to a much wider audience through THE WAVE.”

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ith a playlist that features a select mix of classic Motown and R&B, alongside today’s superstar artists such as Michael Bublé, The Weeknd and Adele, all framed by groove-oriented instrumental pop selections, WAVE 98.3FM continues to offer a unique musical alternative for Vancouver radio listeners.

Mary and Doug Kirk of Broadcasting

“We love the artists that we’re presenting and we recognize the importance of THE WAVE for these amazing Canadian talents who get little to no airplay anywhere else...”

Hasselbach is heavy on musical accomplishments and honours, with gold and platinum jazz albums and charted Billboard hits. Local airplay, however, was scarce prior to the arrival of THE WAVE. “Canada has long been behind in the world —especially behind the US—regarding original-driven adult contemporary, jazz and pop instrumental music and has fallen into the narrowly-defined stock airplay formats that are corporate directed and strictly sponsorship-driven,” he says.

“However, Mary and Doug Kirk had a vision to unearth the gems (largely under-exposed Canadian material) that typically would fall between the format cracks at ‘regular’ radio and to proudly hoist the flag for the way FM radio used to be. “Every day at WAVE 98.3 is an exciting learning experience for music lovers, bringing the hidden gems of Canadian music to the forefront and mixing them with soulful classics that people love to hear, which also tend to fall between the cracks of the increasingly more format-restricted airscape. THE WAVE is building a long-overdue culture on the West Coast, one that perfectly matches the lifestyle and the vibe of Vancouver and that of likeminded listeners on the web. 53 JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Jazz great, Gabriel Mark Hasselbach, is among the local artists who have their music featured prominently on this Vancouver radio playlist.

“Every day at WAVE 98.3 is an exciting learning experience for music lovers, bringing the hidden gems of Canadian music to the forefront and mixing them with soulful classics that people love to hear...” “Hats off to such a forward thinking, musically-generous guiding hand and music mentor: Mary Kirk!” “At the end of the day, we’re trying to get the radio station to a certain market share,” adds Doug Kirk. “The initial response here in Vancouver has been very good, especially considering it usually takes awhile to build awareness out there. It’s not that far a climb to get to a level of commercial acceptability for advertisers.

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“We’re already seeing accounts renewing expressly because the station works for them. It’s not just a numbers game! THE WAVE is all about a lifestyle. As we develop the format here in Vancouver, we remain convinced that the market is certainly big enough to support and embrace this new entry.”

LISTEN LIVE AT WWW.WAVE983.FM

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Amar Doman Story by Joe Leary Photos by Jacob Couture

A New Breed of Owner

There are all types of personalities among owners of major league franchises in professional sports. Some are highly visible, flamboyant; some are controversial and outspoken; while others are aloof and rarely seen or heard. With the press, they can be evasive, dismissive and even downright combative. Amar Doman is neither of these. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find anything other than praise for the owner of the BC Lions Football Club. Already a business titan and founder of one of Canada’s largest and fastest-growing companies, Futura Corporation, Doman purchased the BC Lions in 2021. Now, in just his second year at the helm, he has clearly illustrated that his passion for the club is sincere and his support for the CFL is unwavering.

That opportunity was sealed when he purchased the team from the estate of previous owner David Braley. Braley, who owned the BC Lions from 1997 until his death in 2020, was passionate about the CFL, and made it clear that he wanted the team to remain in the hands of dedicated local partners. Doman certainly ticks that box and stresses that’s one of the keys to success.

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“I love football and have always loved the BC Lions.”

“It’s something you dream about since you’re a child, really,” he says of his desire to purchase the team. “I love football and have always loved the BC Lions. I grew up on the Island so there wasn’t a lot of opportunity to get over to Vancouver for games but when we did it was special. I always thought in the back of my mind if there was ever an opportunity for me to get this done, it would be fantastic.”

“He is humble, loves to do media and get his message across and the fans recognize that— and that’s important.” “I think local ownership really matters in the CFL,” he says. “We’re talking about a league with some smaller cities in a smaller country, so really working through the community is important —that’s Number One. “Number Two: investing in the club and making it exciting for youth, and really re-growing that young fan base again— which we’re doing.” And given the myriad ownership groups in professional sports, Amar Doman also brings a refreshingly new and accessible style of ownership to the sports world. Broadcaster Rick Dhaliwal, co-host of CHEKTV’s popular sports talk show “Donnie and Dhali,” has a longstanding affiliation with not only the BC Lions but the CFL as well. He asserts the Lions have the ideal owner in Doman. “Amar has all the qualities to be a successful owner,” says Dhaliwal.“First off, he loves football and the CFL; and he did not buy the BC Lions for the wrong reasons.

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“The late David Braley would always tell me, ‘I will not sell to someone who does not love the CFL.’ And boy, did he find the right owner.” Amar also does not display the massive ego most owners have. “He is humble, loves to do media and get his message across and the fans recognize that— and that’s important.” Dhaliwal also notes that

Amar Doman has made it his mission to bring excitement back, not just to the game but to the game day presentation. “He has also stepped up and put his money where his mouth is. All the activities around the game day experience he has invested in will pay off.” To that end, Doman has brought in high-level performers for consecutive BC Lions season home openers: One Republic headlined in 2022, and that was followed with rapper LL Cool J in 2023. It’s a policy he maintains will greet each new season. “Absolutely,” he says emphatically, of headline acts kicking off the season home openers at BC Place.”I cannot wait to do this year after year, no matter whether we’re having a good season or a tough one. We’re going to throw the biggest concert home opener kick-off every single year.” Doman’s distinctive new style and approach has been replenishing a diminished fan base that tailed off in recent years. And Dhaliwal feels certain that Amar Doman can serve as the blueprint for CFL ownership going forward. “Nothing has changed overnight, but certainly the rest of the owners have taken notice of the Lions’ improved TV numbers and attendance,” says Dhaliwal. “Especially in Toronto and Montreal, two cities that had the same problems as the BC Lions before Doman took over.”

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Ryan Gauld of the Vancouver Whitecaps Story by Joe Leary Photos by Jacob Couture

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A Star is Born Ryan Gauld tallied 12 goals and a team-high 17 assists this season earning him VWFC ‘Player of the Year’.

Dynamic and forceful on the pitch, he is equal parts gracious and engaging away from it. He clearly possesses and displays all of the essential elements of being a bonafide star. A 27 year old midfielder who hails from Aberdeen, Scotland, Ryan Gauld signed a three-year contract with the Vancouver soccer club in 2021, following a stellar stint with Portuguese side FC Farense. While not initially familiar with the whole Vancouver vibe, he and his girlfriend (now fiancée) did their due diligence and researched what the West Coast has to offer when the Whitecaps came calling. And despite Aberdeen, Scotland being 7000 km away, geographically, there is a distinct parallel between the two locales — certainly with respect to climate. “One big similarity is the amount of rainfall,” he notes.”In Scotland it rains pretty much year round but the big difference is that here in

Vancouver you actually get a good summer. It’s very picturesque and there’s a lot to do.” And yes, he has acclimatized to all the West Coast lifestyle has to offer. “We surf,” he says of his outdoor activities away from the pitch. “We’ve been to Tofino a number of times, because whether it’s the mountains and hiking or being close to the water, you’ve got everything here.” Gauld’s professional career started at Dundee United, helping that squad to reach the 2014 Scottish Cup Final. His MLS arrival has been pure magic. With his skill, the Vancouver Whitecaps won the Canadian Championship in 2022; with Gauld winning the George Cross Memorial Trophy as tournament MVP in the process. Earlier this year the Whitecaps retained the championship, with Ryan scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot. Paul Dolan knows a thing or two about the value of an asset like Ryan Gauld.As a former Vancouver 86er and Canadian World Cup goalkeeper,

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n the pantheon of premier pro caliber athletes, the Vancouver Whitecaps FC has a true gem in Ryan Gauld.

“...he really is the most selfless, high profile player in MLS...” Dolan serves as MLS analyst for Apple TV and is an honoured member of the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame. “Whitecaps FC Coach Vanni Sartini calls him the workingman’s DP (Designated Player) and he really is the most selfless, high profile player in MLS,” says Dolan. “Gauld gives everything he can for the betterment of the team on both sides of the ball and he’s been the best player in the league, in my opinion, since his scoring streak started in May.” Compared in his attacking style to international superstar Lionel Messi, Gauld acknowledges that now being in the same league is nothing but great for soccer in North America. “It’s just amazing for the league and it’s shown that the MLS has taken the next step forward to attract what a lot of people think of as the best player of all time. “He’s not here for a holiday—you can see he’s taking it seriously. I think a lot of teams so far have kind of been in awe of him and that’s proven to be pretty deadly going against him.” “As hard as it would be, I think the best way forward is to forget that it’s Messi and play your normal game and hope he doesn’t produce a piece of magic.” While local fan enthusiasm may not be quite as frenetic as in his home country, Ryan Gauld is impressed, nonetheless, with the Whitecaps ticketholders. “The support plays such a big part, and we’ve had that when we’ve gone through tough times and the fans kept showing up and supporting us,” he says. “As players, we really appreciate that.

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“We want to be playing in front of as many fans as we can and we want as many people as possible to come to the games. If we play some good attacking football, we’ll do that.” Away from the pitch, don’t be surprised to see Ryan Gauld somewhere in Kitsilano, where he calls home and enjoys the local terrain and its proximity to water. “I’ve got two dogs so I spend a lot of time at Spanish Banks,” he notes. “I’m also a coffee lover and I think I’ve tried just about every café in Kits.”

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Kyle Bukauskas Campbell River’s Own on Hockey Night in Canada Story by Joe Leary Photos supplied by Sportsnet and Kyle Bukaukas

While Ottawa may be his current mailing address, there’s no place like home for Sportsnet TV host and rinkside reporter, Kyle Bukauskas. Home remains the “Salmon Capital of the World: Campbell River, British Columbia.” Impeccably attired, articulate and genial in his presentation, and blessed with arguably the best hair ever among television sportscasters, Bukauskas continues to earn accolades among both broadcast peers and players alike, all the while expanding his profile on this country’s iconic sports telecast, “Hockey Night in Canada.” Sportsnet has clearly found a new star.

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While the plan may have been the thought of perhaps playing professional hockey one day, Bukauskas discovered that the sweet spot in his sporting life is covering the play and the players of the game he loves. “When I was young I had dreams of playing in the NHL, but as the years went on it became very clear, watching the pros was the way to go,” he says. “The closest I got to being in ‘The Show’ was when I was eight years old. My minor hockey team got to play a mini-game during the intermission of a Vancouver Canucks game, at then GM Place.

"...I just try to uphold the standard that was set decades before I got a chance to be part of it." Sadly, the commanding memory I have of that night was getting food poisoning and being sick all over the arena. I'm just thankful I kept everything down while we were on the ice!”

Institute of Technology) in Calgary, taking their Broadcast News program—that was the foundation I had to build upon in the years since.”

Developing an interest in broadcasting, watching the likes of former Sportsnet television anchor Don Taylor and TSN’s “Jay

Success has often been identified as the intersection where luck meets opportunity. Shortly after moving to Toronto, that opportunity existed.

But could he have foreseen playing a vital role on Canada’s flagship sports program? “Never,” he states emphatically. “My dream when I first pursued this career was to be sitting on an anchor desk, reading highlights. To me, ‘Hockey Night in Canada’ felt like an entirely different world that I never even considered, let alone imagined I would have a chance to be a part of.” It was a chance connection in Grade 10 when Bukauskas began the broadcast journey. “I reached out to Warren Andrews,” he recalls.“He was the longtime play-by-play voice of the Campbell River Storm and, at the time, also the afternoon host of a new FM radio station that had launched in town: 99.7 ‘The River.’ He took me under his wing and went to bat for me with the station to give me an opportunity to intern and learn everything I could about local radio. Without him believing in me back then, I'm not convinced I'd be where I am now. “Between my years spent there and two incredible years at SAIT (Southern Alberta

“The news dropped that Rogers had secured a 12-year national rights deal with the NHL,” he says. A few years went by where I was reporting for Sportsnet but not part of the hockey department.” That is, until 2016. “I moved from Ottawa to Montreal to be the rinkside host for the Canadiens regional broadcasts, but there was no mention of ‘Hockey Night in Canada.’ That September I'm in the middle of covering the ‘World Cup of Hockey’ in Toronto and the email comes out with the production schedule. “As I'm scrolling, I stop dead in my tracks at the first Saturday of the season: ‘Ottawa versus Montreal’ - and there's my name next to Bob Cole and Garry Galley—(cue the song ‘One of These Things’ from Sesame Street!) I thought, surely an oversight, right? “Somehow, it wasn't.” It’s the realization of a dream and certainly beyond imaginable for a sports broadcaster, let alone a devoted hockey fan!

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and Dan,” Bukauskas uncovered some early video footage of him interviewing a childhood friend in his youth, suggesting the broadcast bug must have been implanted early on.

Kyle Bukauskas with the Stanley Cup outside the Bellagio Las Vegas

“It's not lost on me what kind of impact ‘Hockey Night in Canada’ has had on generations of Canadians,” adds Bukauskas. “Every time the red light comes on the camera, I just try to uphold the standard that was set decades before I got a chance to be part of it.”

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Cool moments have been plentiful thus far, including being on the ice amid the frenzy of a Stanley Cup Final, when the cherished trophy is awarded, before ultimately getting to interview the winning players during the greatest moment of their hockey lives. But for Kyle Bukauskas, there may be one situation in particular that stands out amongst all others. It’s a full circle moment. “In the final season of ‘Rogers Hometown Hockey,’ they made a stop in my home town of Campbell River,” he recalls.

“Sportsnet was great for allowing me to fly out there for the broadcast and my heart was so full, being able to show off the place I grew up in and to celebrate a number of terrific athletes and people that came from there. When I started to pursue this career there was this understandable narrative that if I really wanted to try to make it, it would have to happen far away from home. “So the fact I was back in Campbell River for something like Hometown Hockey...it all felt even more improbable than working on a national TV show to begin with.” And despite his meteoric rise, Kyle Bukauskas puts it all in perspective, especially when walking those humble streets where he was raised, on the East Coast of Vancouver Island. “When I go back home to Campbell River, I'm just someone who grew up there”, he says. “Or ‘Walt's kid’, for the older demographic.”

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VANCOUVER CIVIC THEATRES OVERSEEING THE CITY’S HALLOWED VENUES

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Story by Joe Leary Photos supplied by VCT

Vancouver Civic Theatres (VCT), owned and operated by the City of Vancouver, is so much more than a collective of performance venues. It’s an invaluable arts and culture hub in our city, committed to serving both patrons and artists alike.

They have also played a significant role in our city’s rich history. Dating back to 1927, the venerable Orpheum theatre holds the distinction of being designated a National Historic Site of Canada. It was once a vaudeville house and then a cinema before becoming a live performance space for many arts organizations, including the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

The QET has continued to host an impressive list of internationally renowned artists since it opened in 1959, with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip in attendance for a gala performance. The Vancouver Playhouse followed in 1962, becoming a home to local and visiting theatre, music and dance companies, while the Annex, the most recent addition to the VCT family, opened its doors in 2010 to provide a spotlight for emerging artists and performance groups. A civic organization since 1961, VCT’s venue spaces have hosted touring theatrical engagements, award-winning Broadway productions, the best stand-up comedians in the business, classical, rock and pop concerts

and the like, numbering roughly more than 800 events per year, entertaining some 800,000 guests annually in the process. “The VCT vision is to amplify arts, culture, entertainment, and community for the city of Vancouver,” says Natalie Lue, Director of Vancouver Civic Theatres. “Our mission is to provide a welcoming place to experience the world together, and to develop, enhance and promote Vancouver’s vibrant arts scene.” With the mandate to lasting relationships with local non-profits and arts organizations, VCT provides culture enthusiasts with access to an endless array of arts and entertainment opportunities.

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The venues in VCT’s portfolio are some of Vancouver’s most-heralded: The Queen Elizabeth Theatre (QET) and its adjunct, Vancouver Playhouse, on Hamilton Street; the historic Orpheum theatre on Granville Street and its accompanying black box theatre on Seymour Street, the Annex.

Major Broadway productions including “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Hamilton,” and next summer’s blockbuster, “Disney’s Frozen,” grace VCT’s stages. From the “Just for Laughs Vancouver Comedy Festival” to international and local dance productions and symphony performances, the objective of Vancouver Civic Theatres is simple: “To offer the community a myriad of transformative arts and culture encounters while remaining accessible and responsive to their needs.” VCT’s long-standing venue partners share this vision. “‘Just for Laughs Vancouver’s partnership with the Queen Elizabeth Theatre as the marquee stage for our festival, and the bustling public plaza activation we do, establishes our commitment to create a vibrant cultural event for the city,” says JFL Festival’s Director Heather Wallace.

“We aim to create an immersive experience that not only entertains but also weaves laughter and community into our collective spirit.” JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

Founder & Artistic Director of Vancouver Recital Society Leila Getz echoes this sentiment: “The Vancouver Recital Society’s relationship with VCT dates back to 1984, when we began presenting concerts at the Playhouse. Since then, we’ve presented over 400 concerts, predominantly at the Playhouse, but also at the Orpheum, the Annex, and, for the first time this year, at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

“We have forged warm and meaningful relationships with many VCT staff, both on the administration side, as well as backstage. And, at each and every concert, the wonderful VCT front of house staff welcomes us like family.” VCT is committed to equity, diversity, accessibility and inclusivity, and supports these commitments through grants and public programs, which offer low-barrier and free opportunities such as outdoor movies every summer, dance classes, venue tours, visual artist programs and more. And they continue to broaden their roster of “VCT Presents’” programs with ticketed events. These include “National Geographic Live” and “Silent Movie Mondays,” VCT’s wildly popular new film series that screens silent movies accompanied by dramatic music played live on the historic Wurlitzer organ—the last theatre organ in Canada still performing in its original home. The immersive event takes place at the Orpheum Theatre, with a pre-show jazz quartet, photo booth, and food and beverage specials. Patrons are encouraged to come dressed in period costumes to join in on the celebration of the city’s entertainment history. Following each show, Keith Blackmore of Vancouver Film School hosts a lively discussion about the movie and the role of silent films in the evolution of film history. VCT has one of the most comprehensive event listings in the Metro Vancouver area. Visit their website (vancouvercivictheatres. com) and follow them on Facebook and Instagram (@vancivictheatres) for the latest scoops and the hottest tickets in town!

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Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre Stylist: Arezoo Aliperti Photographer: Jozef Povazan Photography

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MAKING WORLD CLASS DRUMS Story by Joe Leary Photos by Jacob Couture

ay Ayotte has been playing drums since the age of thirteen. It’s been a lifelong association ever since. From performing as a musician to teaching the craft to students, Ray eventually created his own brand, providing the rock and roll world with another iconic name. Drums are the life of Ray Ayotte. Unlike most designers, who use metal rims, Ray constructs his drums with wooden hoops and has been doing so since 1982. It was ten years after selling other manufacturers’ brands through his bustling local shop, “Drums Only,” he decided it was time to make his own, and the Ayotte brand was born. “By year ten we had developed a sophisticated repair and drum customizing facility,” says Ayotte. “That was when we decided to make our own drums and put the family name on them—the birth of Ayotte Custom Drums.” And the very name is legendary within the world of rock drummers. With kick drumheads in rock bands bearing the name of iconic brands like Ludwig, Gretsch and Sonor, the Ayotte name proudly stands among them.

Theatre and concert producer and promoter Bill Allman, owner of Famous Artists Limited, has been around rock bands his entire life and has nothing but praise for the brand, and the man. “Ray is a master drum maker and master percussionist whose sounds have been coveted and engaged by bands all over the world, including the ‘World's Most Dangerous Band’ on ‘The Late Show with David Letterman,’” says Allman. “I had just met Ray when I noticed his name on that kit and thought, "COOL! I know him.” “My goal has always been to make drums that sound great at all dynamic levels,” says Ayotte. The feedback certainly supports this. Ray made a unique custom set for longtime music executive Frank Gigliotti. That kit sits proudly on display in his North Vancouver winery, California Cult Classics, and is unique in the sense that the drums were crafted out of wine barrels.

“My goal has always been to make drums that sound great at all dynamic levels.”

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RAY AYOTTE

“In my opinion, his drums are the best-sounding drums ever made by anyone.”

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California Cult Classics owner Frank Gigliotti chats with drum maker Ray Ayotte

The one of a kind Ayotte-designed drum kit made from wine barrels

“Ray is one of one,” says Gigliotti, himself pretty adept on the drums. “There are no others. No one has done what he has done —and he’s a hometown boy. In my opinion, his drums are the best-sounding drums ever made by anyone.

someone who has been obsessed with music since his formative years, many decades ago. At a point in life when a lot of people start scouring the tube for ‘Matlock’ reruns, Ray continues to innovate and perfect the manufacture and art of percussion.

“When I was with Columbia Records, it was my job to look after the artists, so I had an opportunity to be with Jeff Porcaro (drummer for Toto) and a lot of the great drummers of the era. “I would be there for the afternoon sound checks before the gigs, so I’ve heard a lot of drums and I’ve played a lot of drums. There just aren’t any that have his sound and that look.”

“He remains an inspiration and one of Vancouver's world-wide achievers for good reason.”

“With his new brand, RAYA drums, Ray Ayotte continues his masterful work,” adds Allman. “His instruments are without parallel and his sense for performance and rhythm is that of

And the smile that he emanates when hitting the skins is clear evidence of the passion he still holds. He’s a true craftsman—at work and at play!

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Today’s version of Ayotte’s personal craftsmanship lies within the RAYA name.

Ray Ayotte is a fit 76 years old and still plays to this day. When not handcrafting a kit, he’s sitting behind one.

JAMES HAU TOP 1% REAL ESTATE ADVISOR IN GREATER VANCOUVER

JAMESHAUHOMES.CA - 604.618.8325

The knowledge an agent has, their marketing system, negotiation skills, network, and character will have a tremendous impact on the final outcome of your purchase or sale.

ames Hau, a Top 1% real estate advisor for Greater Vancouver and Top Individual Performer at faithwilson | Christie's International Real Estate, says in order to properly assist clients it’s vital to have a deep understanding of the market—on both a macro and micro-economic level. “Armed with this knowledge, we can create an individualized marketing plan tailored to your home, which emphasizes its unique features,” says James. “In today's tough market, it's more important than ever to have exceptional representation through brand management and optimal exposure in the right channels.” That “tough market” includes rising interest rates and a negative narrative often propagated by the media, which together have caused apprehension and a state of uncertainty amongst buyers and sellers. James notes that those are just

two of the reasons it’s so important for buyers and sellers to find a knowledgeable real-estate advisor they can trust.

Estate and their understanding of constant progression, ethical standards, exceptional training and ingenious marketing initiatives.

“People think all real-estate agents are the same, and hence the results will be the same,” says James, who grew up in Greater Vancouver. “In actuality, who you choose to represent you matters. The knowledge an agent has, their marketing system, negotiation skills, network, and character will have a tremendous impact on the final outcome of your purchase or sale. Who you choose, matters.”

“To truly help someone, you need to understand them and their goals,” says James. “Everyone has their unique situations, ideas and concerns, so it's up to us to learn about them and guide them through the process.”

To that end, James has learned that by combining patience, honesty and empathy with his experience, knowledge and negotiating skills, his clients will always have the best possible outcome, especially when backed by the outstanding support of his firm at faithwilson | Christie's International Real

“My belief is that every home deserves its own tailored strategy, and with impactful marketing on a global scale, I achieve top dollar for my sellers,” says James. “Despite the challenges that come with this profession, I consider it a blessing to help people and make a difference in their lives.”

James is also fiercely dedicated to his clients, many of whom he is now proud to call friends, so isn’t afraid to get competitive on their behalf.

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“GOLDEN BOY” JERRY TRIMBLE STILL SHINES Story by Joe Leary Photos by Luke Morrey

“There’s a quote that says: ‘To be the best, you have to believe in the best. You have to see it, feel it, hear it, nurture it and live it.”

While his current role is rallying young people to be champions in their day-today existence, his own life tells the tale of being routinely victimized; striving to overcome torment; and the ensuing demons that accompanied his plight. Ultimately, triumph prevailed in the face of adversity. “It was hell as a kid,” says Trimble, of his upbringing in rural Newport, Kentucky. By his own admission, he was in secure, fearful and constantly targeted by bullies. “If I wasn’t bullied at home, I was bullied in schools. “I was so angry at myself and life that I contemplated suicide too many times to count, jumping off the bridge in Newport, Kentucky. I tried all the sports and quit them all because of the bullying and eventually ran away from home. Fortunately, I found out about Bruce Lee.” Inspired by the legendary martial artist and actor, Trimble immersed himself in martial arts at fourteen years old, training relentlessly, six days a week, four to six hours a day. Within just six months he was teaching the craft, and, at just fifteen years of age, Jerry

Trimble earned the rank of first-degree black belt. He soon started competing in tournaments, where he became among the top teenage fighters in the United States. The International kickboxing media acknowledged his skill and called him the flashiest fighter and fastest kicker in the sport. With his trademark hook-kick, registered at 118 mph, Trimble was labeled “Golden Boy” and quickly gained world recognition with his flamboyant style of fighting. He soon became a crowd favourite, inspiring vindication for the hardship he endured as a youth. He currently holds the rank of 6th Degree Black Belt and was inducted into the World Kickboxing League Hall of Fame. By 1990, Trimble retired from the ring with two World Championships. He moved to Hollywood to embark on a career in entertainment, where his first two auditions resulted in leading roles. He has appeared in numerous film and TV roles, including “Heat,” alongside Al Pacino and “Charlie’s Angels,” among others, including a memorable fight scene with Tom Cruise in “Mission: Impossible III.” Ironically, Trimble also appeared in “The Green Hornet,” a big screen adaptation and remake of the classic 60s TV series that starred his boyhood hero, the late Bruce Lee.

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is business card reads: “Youth Motivational Coach—Inspiring Youth to Be Champions in Life.” But Jerry Trimble’s depth, character and range cast a much wider net than those words suggest.

By his own admission, life had begun so troubling that he didn’t see his current age of 55 on the horizon, adding, “I thought I’d be long gone by now.” But life can turn itself around, and Trimble made certain of that.

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Today, Jerry Trimble is vegan, healthy and happy and recently became a Canadian citizen, along with his wife, artist, author and actor, Ami Dolenz, daughter of Micky Dolenz of the legendary 60s pop rock band, “The Monkees.”

The couple enjoys life in their Kitsilano home. Reflective of his own troubling past, and wanting to keep today’s generation on a path to personal victory, Trimble makes it his mission to motivate youth across the US and Canada. He currently mentors youth locally via the East End Boys Club, founded by Jimmy Crescenzo. “I speak to at-risk kids,” he says of his regular role. “That’s my audience. And when kids tell me that I’m really helping, I ask them if they’re helping themselves by standing up to their fears and getting out of their

“And I try to encourage kids to be their best self every day of their life and it goes from everything physically, mentally and emotionally and spiritually.”

“And I try to encourage kids to be their best self every day of their life and it goes from everything physically, mentally and emotionally and spiritually.

“There’s a quote that says: ‘To be the best, you have to believe in the best. You have to see it, feel it, hear it, nurture it and live it.” It has become the daily affirmation and personal mantra for the “Golden Boy.”

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comfort zone on a regular basis. And if not, I help them to get into that mindset with meditation, visualization, exercise and more. As the weeks go on—they get it.

Above: Jerry Trimble relaxing with his wife, Ami Dolenz; daughter of Micky Dolenz of The Monkees

“Defined by Service & Expertise” And, I am Committed to Excellence! Serving Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley since 2006. When you make the important decision to buy or sell Real Estate, I'm committed to going the extra mile to ensure that all of your needs are successfully met in a professional and honest manner. For Service and Commitment, let me help guide you with your next purchase or sale. My tools will make it easier than ever!

Neeraj REALTOR® C 604.357.3838 T 604.224.5277 neeraj@faithwilson.com neerajsood.com

MINA AMINI I

n what can oftentimes be a competitive industry, Mina Amini, a realtor with faithwilson | Christie’s International Real Estate,has never forgotten that building meaningful relationships and helping people achieve their goals is the most important aspect of the job she loves. “It's a career that offers both personal and professional satisfaction and it allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of my clients,” says Mina. “The values of honesty and integrity serve as the foundation of my real estate career.”

Mina notes growing up in West Vancouver and working as an award-winning realtor in the Lower Mainland for more than 13 years has given her the opportunity to experience Vancouver at its best, insider knowledge she’s happy to share with clients. She adds her father, an architect with a degree from Venice University, inspired her early interest in real estate and interior design. Mina also pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in psychology from the University of B.C

Mina adds that honesty and integrity guide her daily and help her build trust with clients. She believes those attributes have contributed to her long-term success in an industry where credibility and reliability are of vital importance.

“This academic background has proven invaluable, particularly in honing my negotiation skills,” says Mina, who also speaks English, Italian and Farsi. “Combined with more than two decades of experience in sales and marketing, I've been able to leverage this wealth of knowledge to great advantage in my real-estate career.”

“My clients can rest assured that they are working with a realtor who not only understands their needs, but also prioritizes their best interests above all else,” says Mina.

As a realtor, Mina has developed a great insight into the Vancouver real-estate market, blending knowledge, passion and experience into a one-stop resource

for clients. As a life-long resident, Mina recognizes it’s the natural beauty, cultural diversity and high quality of life in and around Vancouver which makes it a place both locals and visitors hold in such high regard. Using her extraordinary skillset and local knowledge, Mina customizes each client experience to fit their individual preferences, creating an enjoyable and successful experience. “I am committed to having my clients' interests in mind at all times and delivering a service beyond their expectations.”

mina@faithwilson.com minaamini.com 778.895.6462

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Book Cover Photo by Gail Harvey

Photo by Michael Floman

TERRY AND ME

THE INSIDE STORY OF TERRY AND THE MARATHON OF HOPE Story by Joe Leary

Despite having his right leg amputated above the knee, due to cancer while in high school, he made it his sole purpose in life to raise money for cancer research. Terry Fox was just 21 years old and 58 days into his journey when Bill Vigars joined him, halfway between Montreal and Drummondville, Quebec. The date was June 9, 1980. As Director of Fundraising and Public Relations for the Canadian Cancer Society of Ontario, Vigars had been informed that there was “this kid” running across Canada and was asked to go see what he could do for him. Bill Vigars has now chronicled that incredible time in his life of being on the road with a true Canadian hero. Terry and Me; the inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope is a detailed account of his connection to an incredibly selfless human being, and the interpersonal relationship that the two shared. Vigars recalls their introduction.

“The first time I ever talked to Terry Fox was in Sheet Harbour, Nova Scotia,” he says. “I could see that he was somewhat discouraged because the local Cancer Society chapter didn’t really have the wherewithal to provide any support and there wasn’t much media attention to assist him at that point. “Terry’s run had raised $8000 in Port a Basque—with a population of 8000 people —and that’s where the germ of the idea came to raise one dollar for every Canadian. “The momentum of the Marathon of Hope really grew as we headed closer to Ontario.” Terry Fox ran as much as 48 km per day, often through adverse conditions and on a primitive, weighty, custom-made prosthetic leg that would be considered prehistoric by today’s standards. “Privately, he would admit that it hurt,” says Vigars. “But then he would add that he saw kids in hospital in the cancer wards in Vancouver, and anyone else who’s fighting cancer and say, ‘They can’t quit—I can quit anytime I want.’”

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During his historic Marathon of Hope, Terry Fox ran across Canada for 143 days, registering a total of 3,339 miles.

“That's how I remember Terry.” Fox continued to endure the physical hardship, and public support quickly swelled with Vigars’s help as attention soon reached international heights. Sadly, Terry’s Marathon of Hope came to an abrupt end on September 1, 1980, after he collapsed outside of Thunder Bay, Ontario. A diagnosis had shown that that cancer had spread to his lungs. Bill Vigars will never forget that day. “I, along with all of Canada, was shattered with the news, yet even before the emergency flight to return him home left the tarmac, I knew that this was not the end of the Marathon of Hope,” he says. “It was only the beginning and in my heart I felt his example, determination and courageous run would grow to become something bigger.” It did indeed.

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Terry Fox passed away on June 28, 1981, but his legacy has exceeded any possible Picture of Author, Bill Photo by Shane Harvey

expectations. He became the youngest person to be bestowed the Companion of the Order of Canada, in addition to twice being named Canadian of the Year.

And as for what Terry Fox would think of what he accomplished in his short life, but more importantly of the impact he left on a nation, Bill Vigars is quick to suggest.

Public support for his image to grace Canadian currency continues to gain support while Terry Fox Runs are held annually in

“He would never believe what his legacy would become, not just Canada-wide but around the world,” says Vigars.

To this day, the Marathon of Hope has generated more than $850 million, and that number is projected to hit a billion dollars in 2024. Despite the grueling undertaking Terry endured, Bill Vigars cherishes those memories of that special time in his life, and of the incredible human being and spirit that touched the lives of Canadians for generations to come. “When people think of Terry they think of his concentration and determination and that pain on his face,” says Vigars. But I remember a different guy. “At the end of the day, Terry had a very dry sense of humour and was unbelievably friendly, had a great smile and we all played pranks to lighten the mood at that time. That’s how I remember Terry.”

“His decision at such a young age to rise above his fate won the hearts of a nation. 43 years later he's still with us, still running on those long lonely Canadian highways. I hope reading Terry and Me puts you in the passenger's seat of his van so that you may share his journey.”

“It was only the beginning and in my heart I felt his example, determination and courageous run would grow to become something bigger.” 93 JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

cities, towns and hamlets across Canada.

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assionate expertise, integrity, discretion, exceptional client services, smart business judgement and innovation are the core values and skills Faith Wilson, founder of Faith Wilson | Christie’s International Real Estate, has remained committed to during her meteoric rise to the top of the West Coast real estate industry. Of note, in 2018 Faith sold the most expensive home in British Columbia and, to date, has closed more than $215 billion in real estate sales. Faith began her career in 1993, quickly becoming one of the Top Realtors® in Vancouver. Not long after, she aligned herself with the #1 national real estate brand where she continued to refine her talent, and the results soon followed. During those early years, Faith made a commitment to invest in the development of her personal brand, implement innovative real estate marketing, and was an early devotee of technology. Of most importance she has always put her clients’ goals first and foremost and worked hard to help them achieve their goals. “And I continue that mantra to this date,” says Faith. “To ensure I can put my word to this, we have to stay on top of market trends, be ferocious in our marketing initiatives,

and ensure that our client properties are being marketed to the broadest audience, which means both local and global exposure, which we have in spades.” To that end, Faith opened the doors to Faith Wilson Realty Group in spring of 2011. In 2017 she formed an affiliation with Christie’s International Real Estate, the global authority on luxury real estate and the elite clientele those properties attract, to become Faith Wilson | Christie’s International Real Estate. “Our core values align, it’s a natural fit, and the benefit to our clients is an imbedded local brand with global reach and the most penetrating marketing initiatives of any firm in our area—or Canada, for that matter,” says Faith. Faith notes, hard work, dedication and technology aside, it’s the success of a very simple tool of the trade she’s most proud of—word of mouth. “For me, it has been a career built upon the success I have created for each of my clients, who in turn speak of me in positive terms to their family, friends and associates,” says Faith. “This is a relationship business and, for the most part, we are selling someone’s most valued asset, which is also the roof over their heads. Our clients place their trust in us—it is well placed.”

Being a third generation Vancouverite, Faith is also imbedded in the fabric of community, so it makes sense a commitment to give back is imbedded in the philosophy of the firm. Just some of the numerous local groups faithwilson | Christie’s International Real Estate has supported in the past and present include Union Gospel Mission, KidStart: PLEA Community Services, BCSPCA, Animals Asia Foundation and the Greater Vancouver Food Bank—to name a few. “This business is all about people, and realtors are a part of each of their clients’ lives for a time, so although it is business, it’s also personal, it is full circle,” says Faith. “We are blessed to live in and serve our community.” Reflecting on the past year, Faith says a highlight was the opening of a new office on Kelowna, and hints Whistler might be next on the agenda. Looking to the future, Faith is excited about growing the brokerage with like-minded professionals who embrace the core values of the brand and value the luxury experience. “For us, luxury isn’t just a price point, it’s a lifestyle and a service,” says Faith. “The realtors who work at our brokerage are immersed in what it means to be ‘luxury,’ and this is exemplified in how we work with our clients to help them achieve their goals.”

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FAITH WILSON

OUR CITY TONIGHT

Alouette Bistro O

by Jim Gordon and Leeta Liepins

n a weekend in late October, we decided to experience the south of France at Alouette Bistro. This charming restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and a cozy bar. The menu is extensive and we chose to sample the brunch platter known as “Le Grand Plat.” This dish is chock full of authentic French fare, including croissants, brioche, baguettes, seasonal jam, honey, butter, crème fraiche, smoked salmon, seared tuna, poached eggs, fresh fruits, and nuts.

“The idea and philosophy behind the grand plate is inspired by the classic idea of a French breakfast,” Alouette Executive Chef Albert Tran tells us, “where you have more lighter, sweet selections, this allows you to taste a range of flavours, without feeling too full and adding touches of what our west coast offers.”

Brunch platter known as “Le Grand Plat" Photo courtesy of Our City Tonight

While waiting for our food, and feeling in a rather celebratory French mood, we opted for a classic style but unique cocktail, the “Empress Club.” This fresh, citrus-forward cocktail consists of Empress Gin, raspberry, syrup, ginger-lemon juice and egg white. We sampled a few other choices from their all-day menu that were recommended by Executive Chef Tran, including the Onion Tarte with leeks, raclette, fennel and arugula salad and the Rainbow Trout Almondine served with green beans, baby peppers, radish, almonds, capers, brown butter sauce.

Chef Albert Tran Photo courtesy of Executive Table Group Visit Alouette Bistro at 567 Hornby St in the Executive Hotel Le Soleil, Vancouver alouettevancouver.com

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CHEERS! SANS ALCOHOL! By Lin Stranberg Photos Courtesy of Sansorium

heers! Santé! Salud! The toasts may be the same, but what’s in the glasses is radically different. Bottoms up —alcohol-free drinks are having a moment. Thanks to a new high-tech process called dealcoholization, which removes the booze without sacrificing the flavour, alcoholfree wines and spirits are tastier and more appealing than they have ever been before.

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Dealcoholized wine is real wine that has undergone processing techniques that have removed most or all of its alcohol content. The dealcoholizing process takes the alcohol level down to 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) or below. The global standard and common definition of non-alcoholic is anything 0.5% ABV. Dealcoholized wine, with an ABV of 0.5%, is non-intoxicating and considered alcohol-free. It tastes much more like regular wine. It contains many of the same healthy polyphenols that are found in regular wine, and it’s often much lower in calories and carbs. People can enjoy drinking fine dealcoholized wine without the side effects of alcohol.

A perfect storm of factors, from Canada’s legalization of cannabis to stricter provincial driving laws to the new Health Canada guidelines, has made choosing to avoid alcohol more common and generally accepted than at any time in the past. Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health, published in 2023, is based on the latest evidence-based research on alcohol-related risks, replacing Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines (LRDGs) issued in 2011. Key points are that there is a continuum of risk associated with weekly alcohol used where the risk of harm increases with the amount of alcohol consumed: • 0 drinks per week — Not drinking has

benefits like better health and better sleep. • 2 drinks or less per week — You are likely

to avoid alcohol-related consequences for yourself or others at this level. • 3–6 drinks per week — Your risk of

developing several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer, increases at this level.

"We chose our name, Sansorium, from the Latin ‘sensorium.’ It means ‘feeling more—more sensuality, more beauty..."

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"These drinks do a great job of convincing both your palate and your brain that you’re having a real night out but enable you to drive home safely at the end of it."

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Your risk of heart disease or stroke increases significantly at this level. • Each additional drink radically increases

the risk of alcohol-related consequences. • Consuming more than 2 drinks per

occasion is associated with an increased risk of harms to self and others, including injuries and violence. • When pregnant or trying to get

pregnant, there is no known safe amount of alcohol use. • When breastfeeding, not drinking alcohol

is safest. Relax. The good news is, with the proliferation of sophisticated mocktails and the availability of high-end alcohol-free wines, beers, spirits, ciders and pre-mixed cocktails, you can enjoy the best of drinking without worrying about the negative effects. There are loads of interesting non-alcoholic options out there with dry, complex and satisfying flavors. These drinks do a great job of convincing both your palate and your brain that you’re having a real night out but enable you to drive home safely at the end of it. Sansorium is an alcohol-free drink retailer who has done a great job at bringing it all together. A couple of years ago, when the alcohol-free trend first hit,. North Vancouver mom Kathryn Hepher and her daughters Fiona and Sarah were so enthusiastic about it that they started up their own company, Sansorium, and got busy sourcing, curating and selling a selection

of fine alcohol-free wine, beer, spirits and ready-to-drink creations. Their website is full of fabulous alcohol-free tipples that you can shop at home, as luxurious as anything from Big Alcohol. “We chose our name, Sansorium, from the Latin ‘sensorium.’ It means ‘feeling more—more sensuality, more beauty,’ Fiona Hepher said. (The ‘sans’ part would seem to be French, indicating the products are all without or ‘sans’ alcohol.) lt’s a small operation with just a few full-time employees and a few part-time employees. Sansorium likes to be involved with their community. “We have tastings in Vancouver every quarter or so, and we had one in Toronto last summer as well. Typically, around 75 people come to a tasting,” she said. Sansorium is the exclusive Canadian importer for Edenvale wines, an award-winning Australian producer that ranks at the top of Kathryn, Fiona and Sarah’s lists of favourite alcohol-free wines. “We are dedicated to bringing you the best in alcohol-free wines, and we hope to continue to connect with more premium alcohol-free wineries around the world and bring their products to Canada too,” Fiona said. All Sansorium products are intended for people who want to connect more fully with themselves and the world around them, and don’t want to waste time on hangovers. Many are on offer at fine restaurants in the Vancouver area. For the full story, and a list of retail and restaurant locations where their products are available, see the Sansorium website: www.sansorium.com.

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• 7 drinks or more per week —

Generative AI, Seatbelts Not Included Story by Mike Agerbo

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With ChatGPT alone:

You would have to have been living under a 1. Customer Support rock not to have heard and Engagement: about the explosion ChatGPT can be deployed as a virtual customer support agent, offering real-time of generative AI tools: assistance on your website or through messaging platforms. It can efficiently large language models address common customer questions, like ChatGPT and image guides users through troubleshooting, and even offers personalized generators like Microsoft recommendations. By providing instant Image Creator. How and effective support, ChatGPT enhances customer satisfaction and lightens the can your business use load on your human support team. them? The list grows exponentially every day. 2. Content Creation and Marketing: ChatGPT is a time saver for generating high-quality content, including blog posts, product descriptions, and marketing copy. It ensures consistency in tone and messaging while saving your marketing team valuable time. This empowers your business to maintain a strong online presence and connect with your audience effectively.

3. Market Research and Data Analysis: ChatGPT's data analysis capabilities enable your business to process extensive datasets, identify market trends, and extract valuable insights. It can also generate reports summarizing findings, empowering your decisionmaking process. It allows you to easily upload your own documents for this. But remember, by doing this, you’re further training it, so make sure it’s not proprietary information!

“Remember, it’s a tool, not a replacement for human brain power and talent”

There are many text-to-image creation tools available, like Midjourney.io and Microsoft Bing Image Creator. I like Midjourney.io for the quality of images and photos it can create, but there is a learning curve, and not that easy to use. If you can get the results you need from Microsoft’s tool, its simplicity can’t be beat. But as you can see with the photo in this article, we’re not quite there yet. Remember, it’s a tool, not a replacement for human brain power and talent, yet and like the unbuckled children, with AI, seat belts aren’t included. Mike Agerbo and team at getconnectedmedia.com have been reporting on breaking technology news, testing gadgets, interviewing experts, and bringing technology to you for nearly 20 years.

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This season’s look is all about cosy, livable comfort. Start with the natural warm look of stunning fabrics, then build in layers of textured fall tones for a trending look that’s totally yours.

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Right: Michael Mitton (left) and Michael Bafaro (right)

“THE MICHAELS”

Vancouver Producing Tandem Creates New Horror Movie Franchise Story by Joe Leary Photos by Luke Morrey

mong Vancouver’s film community they are referred to collectively as “The Michaels”: two men with the same name, albeit different spellings.

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The tandem both write, produce and edit, but while Micheal Bafaro adds “director” to his titles, Michael Mitton adds “actor,” as he has a large screen presence in film. Their latest collective venture is “Don’t Look Away,” a captivating, potentially new horror film franchise released earlier this year. And while the big battle at the box office during the summer was largely

between “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” it appears there is always a hunger among moviegoers within the horror category. “Definitely there is,” says Mitton of the popularity of the genre. “The industry keeps saying horror is out but every year it comes back, and there’s a great interest in it,” adds Bafaro. The Michaels formed the Supersonic International Picture Group partnership in 2018, and with this latest effort the plan is to go forward releasing more within that branding.

“When I met Micheal I had just graduated film school at San Francisco State,” adds Mitton.“I was making my student film and got robbed at gunpoint. I had no money and I was bummed, so I came back to Vancouver, and my mom introduced me to him because she had seen him around the neighbourhood and knew he was a filmmaker. “I started going to him for advice. I realized that I was writing really stupid stuff that was never going to get made and asked what I could actually make that had a shot. He told me horror/action—that sort of thing. “We started working together and giving me a better education than four years of school did.” “Before you know it we ended up becoming business partners,” adds Bafaro of his connection to his fellow Michael.

bit different because of the tone we take. We were heavily inspired by a lot of 70s Italian movies and we wanted to have a bit of humour in there as well. “But it’s not a horror comedy like “Evil Dead”; it’s more inspired by the Giallo Films, which a lot of filmmakers are inspired by. Giallo is a reference to a style of Italian-produced mysteries in the horror/thriller/suspense genre that can also include slasher violence. “The name derives from the yellow page, pulp novels published in the sixties and seventies. ‘Don’t Look Away’ pays homage to this style and has been extremely well-received.” “We’re on 300 screens in the U.S., and that’s a big deal,” adds Bafaro. It’s a fun, well-presented concept and has no shortage of positive review fan buzz online, raking in some glowing praise. “Palpably scary, atmospheric and chilling.”

“Initially we had another movie in mind called “The Rain Man,” but that one was going to eat up a good portion of the budget, because the way we conceived the film it was going to require a lot of CG work. We started pitching the story and everyone loved it but it came down to cost.

“One of the best horror films of the year.”

“So we thought we could do something else. That’s when we came up with a mannequin.”

Released on Video on Demand in October, ‘Don’t Look Away’ was shown on over 300 screens among two major US chains.

Described as “Hallowe’en with a Mannequin,” “Don’t Look Away” tells the tale of a group of friends that cannot escape the gaze of a mannequin and its trail of imminent horror.

And the Michaels suggest that their creative process clearly sees more films in the “Don’t Look Away” franchise going forward.

“People are really enjoying it, and a lot of the reviewers have gotten the movie that we made, because on paper it’s a

“By all means take the title seriously. ‘Don’t Look Away’—you might miss something scary, funny and pretty good.”

“One can revel in its disturbing disco bloodbath scene.” “By all means take the title seriously. ‘Don’t Look Away’—you might miss something scary, funny and pretty good.”

“It’s set up for sequels— for sure,” says Bafaro. “We’ve kept the mannequin.”

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The pairing of the Michaels came about somewhat by chance.

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BRENT BUTT Story by Joe Leary Photos by Jacob Couture

n addition to the titles of screenwriter, actor and comedian, you can now add “novelist” to the list of Brent Butt credits. And his first foray into the literary world comes with Huge, an unexpectedly dark and twisted thriller. Set in 1994, it’s a psychopathic tale of three stand-up comics on a touring run of shows, set within a remote stretch of a rural Canadian landscape. Suffice to say that things go horribly awry. It’s also not the type of content one would expect from such a funny guy. Published by Doubleday Canada, Huge marks the beloved comedian’s literary debut and begs the question: how long has this concept been percolating? “I love writing and I always wanted to write a novel,” he says. “In fact, when I was a little kid, I made a list of things I wanted to write in my life professionally, and a novel was the second to last thing. “It’s pretty daunting. I always wanted to do it but didn’t know if I would be able to.” It turns out he was — it just needed to be the right time. When normalcy was curtailed during the Covid-19 shutdown, Butt figured there was no time like the present. “I thought if not now, when?”

“...when I was a little kid, I made a list of things I wanted to write in my life professionally, and a novel was the second to last thing.” Fortunately the origins of Huge had been ruminating within for some time. “Doing stand-up over the years, I often had this notion of being on the road in a vehicle, and you’re driving across Northern Ontario or Saskatchewan at midnight, often with other persons, and the things they’re saying make you realize they’re not wired up right and certainly volatile. “You’re thinking: ‘this guy has got issues and there are a lot of places to hide a body. There’s nowhere for me to hide—but he could hide my body.’ That was the germ of the idea.”

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Huge marks a dramatic departure from Butt’s traditional comedic styling, honed after years of stand-up and writing television scripts. “TV scripts are very structured and very ‘to the minute’ and you need a plot point by a certain page count. I told my literary agent that this book is more like a horse that you let out of the pen and it just runs freely along the beach. It was just such an enjoyable experience.”

“It was a blast,” he says, of the quirky comedy that ran for five years as live action, before completing a two-season run in animated form. It captivated Canadian audiences and far surpassed network expectations. Interestingly, despite our country’s wealth of top-tier comedic talent, few Canadian TV projects resonate with viewers. “Corner Gas” is a notable exception. “For a long time we always heard that Canadians don’t watch Canadian television shows,” he adds. “‘Corner Gas’ kind of broke that notion.”

It was the only time since they started keeping track that the Number One comedy in Canada was from Canada. That had never happened before. Mark McKinney from ‘Kids in the Hall’ said in an interview that Canadian TV will now always be dissected between pre & post “Corner Gas” because after it, you started having “Little Mosque on the Prairie” and “Schitt’s Creek” and broadcasters suddenly started taking meetings about Canadian sitcoms that they didn’t do before. With Brent Butt now an accomplished actor, writer and comedian and, most recently, published author, his wishlist of writing goals has realized another career achievement. “I’ve been able to accomplish them all with one exception,” he says. “The only thing left on that list now is to do a play and have it staged professionally.” Stay tuned.

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After years as one of Canada’s most popular comics, Brent Butt hit pay dirt in 2000 as the creator and star of “Corner Gas,” the highly-rated CTV sitcom about life in the fictional small town of Dog River, Saskatchewan. The acclaimed series brought together a memorable ensemble cast of characters and achieved top Canadian primetime ratings in the process.

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n the realm of Interior design and Architecture, the choice of materials plays a pivotal role in defining the aesthetics and functionality of a space. Quartz countertops have long been the preferred choice of homeowners, designers, and architects due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Among the quartz brands available, Vicostone stands out as a clear leader in the industry, and in 2024, it's set to make waves with the introduction of six new colours inspired by nature. One of the defining features of Vicostone is its commitment to environmental sustainability, and healthy environments. Vicostone quartz is not only known for its beauty and durability but also for its eco-friendly approach to

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first Indigenous and female-led, produced, written and directed drama about the residential school experience in North America.”

THE GENIUS OF MARIE CLEMENTS Story by Lin Stranberg Photos courtesy of Marie Clements

She is a Métis/Dene filmmaker, playwright, screenwriter, composer, director and producer whose award-winning documentary and feature films have screened around the world—at Cannes, TIFF, MOMA and VIFF, among others. Her work as a playwright has been decorated with the CanadaJapan Literary Award and two Governor General’s Literary Award nominations, and her plays have been presented on some of the most prestigious stages for Canadian and international work. She wrote, directed and produced Red Snow, a 2019 feature film that tells the story of a Gwich’in soldier from the Canadian Arctic who is captured by the Taliban in Panjwayi, Afghanistan, and escapes across rough terrain with a Pashtun family. It was shot in four languages: Gwich’in, Inuvialuktun, Pashto and English. In 2019, Red Snow was nominated for several Leo Awards, named Most Popular Canadian Feature Film at VIFF, and Best Canadian Feature Film at the Edmonton International Film Festival. In California, it won Best Feature Director and Best Achievement in Film from the L.A. Skins Festival and earned nominations for Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress and Best Film at the American Indian Film Festival in San Francisco. In 2020, it won Best Screenplay, Best Director and Best Feature at the Vancouver International Women in Film Festival.

Her latest work is Bones of Crows, a multi-generational epic drama grounded in historical truth, a story from Canada’s dark past that highlights the resilience and strength of Indigenous people, their language and culture, in the face of multiple injustices that are collectively considered to be cultural genocide. It is at once a five part CBC miniseries which debuted on the national network and the CBC Gem streaming service September 20, 2023, and a full-length feature film whose premiere was at TIFF in 2022. They were shot together, which was challenging in itself, and the COVID-19 pandemic added an extra layer of complexity to the project. “We were working in full-on COVID for about eight months,” Clements said. There were 57 shooting days, plus months of pre- and post-production work. Then it was time to edit the miniseries episodes into a feature film. “It was a hard edit to get it down to a feature length. Deep down in my heart I was hoping for a long movie, and I was ever hopeful,” she said, “as directors are.” As a five-part miniseries, Bones of Crows is around five hours in length. Bones of Crows, as a feature film, is just over two hours long. Of necessity, the film touches on each issue and keeps on moving. The miniseries, on the other hand, takes viewers through a more fully developed journey through the genocide and

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MARIE CLEMENTS IS A FORCE OF NATURE.

its aftermath (residential school sweeps, the losses, the abuses, the murdered indigenous girls and women, the indigenous status during and after wartime, starvation, illness, addiction, alcoholism, suicide, depression). Frequent flashbacks and time jumps in each contribute to the viewer’s grasp of the intergenerational trauma and its roots. The story takes place around the horrors of colonialism in Canada and the resilience of the Indigenous people and their culture. It is seen through the lives of a family of Cree women headed by matriarch Aline Spears (played by Grace Dove; younger Aline by Summer Testawich; and older Aline by CarlaRae). They represent Indigenous women who continue to advocate for human rights despite the injustices they endure, demonstrating their dignity, tenacity and resilience in the face of almost insurmountable obstacles. Clements’s own mother was a residential school survivor, but didn’t talk about it to her children. A lot of those memories were too painful to share, although the trauma was deep-rooted.

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“In those days,” she said, “people didn’t talk about hard things very easily. My mother really only started talking about it when she was in her sixties.” Her mother left the north in her early twenties to live on Galiano Island. In 1962, Marie Clements was born in Vancouver and, like her mother before her, now lives on Galiano Island.

Bones of Crows was commissioned into development by CBC in 2019. The intention was to create a large-scale dramatic production that gave voice to the multigenerational effect of the residential school experience in Canada. It was also made in response to the calls to action that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommends from the CBC, SRC, APTN and other federal institutions to create public programming and education about the history of residential schools in Canada, and to support Reconciliation. “One of the actions of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is to let these stories be told. There haven’t been that many stories of residential schools in Canada,” Clements said. Bones of Crows is the first Indigenous and female-led, produced, written and directed drama about the residential school experience in North America. The project was very large, bringing together some 180 cast members and 150 different sets shot in five different regions across British Columbia. Five generations of Indigenous performers and some of Canada’s most outstanding Indigenous and non-Indigenous talent came together to tell a story of hard truths that challenges a singular vision of history in order to create change. “I think we can agree that connecting with characters based on truth opens your heart to understanding other people’s point of view, and the ability to feel empathy for someone else has the ability to change attitudes going forward.”

“...Connecting with characters based on truth opens your heart to understanding other people’s point of view...”

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W16 BY OLSON KUNDIG PUSHES THE DESIGN ENVELOPE IN THE HEART OF CAMBIE VILLAGE JESSEL FALL/WINTER 2023

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Unveiling this fall, W16 features 53 masterfully crafted homes W esgroup Properties has gathered world-renowned masters of architecture and design to bring W16 by Olson Kundig to life in the heart of Cambie Village. W16 is a limited collection of 53, one-to-three-bedroom homes located on the prominent corner of Cambie Street and W16th Avenue.

One of Wesgroup’s latest projects, this unique seven-story concrete form reshapes livability and pushes the design envelope in this much sought-after urban community. When Wesgroup searched for an architectural firm that could explore originality within the context of this iconic Vancouver neighbourhood, Olson Kundig was a natural choice because it embraces the philosophy that world-class design and building performance are intrinsically connected.

Award-winning architect Tom Kundig describes W16 as a striking, distinctive building, which is experimental, yet elegant and unites architecture, individual and nature. “I try to redefine what it means for humans to be in a relationship with architecture,” says Tom Kundig, principal owner and founder of Olson Kundig. “Architecture is evolutionary – not revolutionary.” W16 is carefully proportioned to optimize the building’s footprint and the functionality of each home. The design was first shaped with insets, producing corner windows for all homes, allowing air and light to freely circulate and penetrate deeper into living spaces. The façade was then shifted to further lighten the mass of the form, matching the neighbourhood’s scale. This created covered balconies that appear as articulated boxes from the street. So, no matter the weather, the horizontal shifts in the building’s façade create covered outdoor living spaces protected from the elements for year-round enjoyment.

“There is that leap that happens when you take classic principles and rethink them,”

Bob Rennie, founder of Rennie, one of Vancouver’s largest real-estate marketing

says Tom Kundig. “Access to outdoor living is vital to ensure livability and a healthy home environment.”

firms, confirms W16 is like no other in Vancouver. He notes W16 is unique in the fact it offers world-class architecture typically reserved for large, world-renowned projects or select, single-family homes.

The interiors were designed to enhance the simple material palette of the exterior’s façade, masterfully created from bronze panels, sleek glass and textured brick. The result—unique dimensions and enhanced livability. Cabinetry by Italian icon Stosa Cucine for Informprojects, a Canadian leader in creating architectural kitchens in luxurious multiresidential projects, adds to the sophisticated look of each kitchen. Stosa Cucine has been producing quality Italian kitchens for more than 55 years and is internationally recognized and appreciated for its innovation and style. A family owned company, Stosa is guided by passion and skill passed down from one generation to the next. Multi-disciplinary design house Matthew McCormick Studio was also a natural fit for W16 due to its experimental design ethos and the artistry that drives its bespoke work. As with Olson Kundig, the studio focuses on natural materials and bringing the outdoors in. To that end, the Line Light, which will be installed above the kitchen island in every home, features natural wood and, rather than being ornate, is designed to focus on its streamlined beauty.

“That much architecture going into a small building is something we haven’t seen. And there are a lot of architectural fans of Olson Kundig in Vancouver, so it’s a really unique opportunity,” says Rennie. Located along the Cambie corridor, one of the city’s main transportation corridors, W16 offers easy access to the downtown core and a limitless selection of retail, cultural and entertainment options. And, with its close proximity to many local parks and green spaces, including the world-famous Queen Elizabeth Park and Bloedel Conservatory, and VanDusen Botanical Garden, residents can also get back to nature whenever the mood strikes. Unveiling this fall, registration is now open for W16 by Olson Kundig. Visit w16byolsonkundig.com for more information and to register.

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Wesgroup was also drawn to Olson Kundig’s humanistic approach to sustainable design, which expands the context of built and natural landscapes. By blurring the boundaries between inside and out, their buildings connect people to nature and reminds them that they are deeply intertwined with the environment, even when they’re inside.

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FOR THE OFFSHORE ANGLER WHO WANTS IT ALL KingFisher Boats has ofﬁcially released our newest 3025 GFX

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With a top speed of 53 MPH and 5.5 seconds to plane, this craft is set to dominate the 30’ heavy gauge class. The expansive cockpit is 7’11” by 8’4”, with two 55 USG fish lockers and a transom fish locker. From its easy walk-thru cabin entrance, the interior reflects our larger GFX models styling . Add King Leather urethane upholstery and Sapele wood finishings throughout. The standard port side folding bench seat can be upgraded to a single suspension seat for maximum comfort. Standard offshore features including a stand-up head with 25G holding tank, flush toilet and macerator. The well-appointed galley includes plenty of wood cabinets, drawers, cupboards a stainless steel sink with a 40 G fresh water tank

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TOM CARTER SHOWCASING VANCOUVER THROUGH ART

ou’d be hard pressed to find someone with a greater knowledge of Vancouver than Tom Carter.

But rather than just knowing our city’s storied history, Tom has preserved it, most notably in the broader field of visual art and entertainment. As a board member of the Vancouver Historical Society, Friends of the Vancouver City Archives, the Vancouver Police Museum and the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame, he is more than qualified on the subject. Carter’s love of Vancouver’s rich past emanates from his earlier days in the recording industry. Above: "Marquee Magic" acrylic on canvas 40"x30" Vancouver's iconic Theatre Row in the early '50s. Left: "Vancouver Conﬁdential" acrylic on canvas 48"x36" Hastings and Main - site of the city's only "grand union" - where streetcars could turn in any direction.

“I started my first studio in my twenties and engineered and produced many albums,” he says. “I played piano and Hammond B3 organ on more CDs than I can count — in fact, at the start I’d play for free just to get sessions in the door. “I’ve always been really into older music and at one point I had a record collection of about 10,000 78 RPM records. Word

got around the music scene and soon a lot of older musicians were booking our studio as we “got” what they were doing. “Over those years I got to know and even play with guys who had been professional musicians as far back as the 1930s. They told me all about what the scene in Vancouver was like back then, and I just fell in love with it.” Carter’s acclaimed artwork transports one back to a simpler time in Vancouver’s past. “It’s what I feature in my original paintings — Vancouver as people remember it, or as we wish we remembered it, full of live music.” For the uninitiated, Vancouver was viewed as a vital entertainment hot spot back in the day. “We were the ‘try-out’ town. Vancouver was known as the place to work out an act before taking it into the US. Our audiences were considered to be tough-but-fair and representative of audiences south of the border. “If the act didn’t work here, the producers and artists could rework and refine it until it was road-ready, and do so away from the mainstream American press.”

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Story by Joe Leary Photos supplied by Tom Carter

“It’s what I feature in my original paintings–Vancouver as people remember it, or as we wish we remembered it, full of live music.” In those days, artists would be booked into the city’s hottest nightclub venues: the Cave, Marco Polo and Isy’s Supper Club. Each would book the top recording and touring artists of the day for a week at a time as the city was entertainment-hungry. Even as far back as the vaudeville era, musical acts would play Vancouver for a week. “Weeks ran Monday to Saturday; everything was closed Sunday so you could attend church rather than be morally corrupted by a variety show,” he says.

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“In the vaudeville years Vancouver had theatres for all the major chains (more than most cities) as we were the terminus of all the railroads (east-west and north-south) and had a population that was very willing to part with their money for entertainment! “This is still true in the rock world today.” Tom Carter’s artistic creations are prized and acclaimed. Typically, he features Vancouver in the 1950s, a clear nod to his love for the city’s history.

“The decade following the Second World War (1945-1955) is one of my favourite periods,” he says. “It was such an exciting decade of transition and modernization—jazz turns to rock, radio to television and car design goes from running boards and six-window sedans to the sleek, chromed-up tanks of the mid-fifties. We saw the first of the West End towers and new infrastructure included our current Granville Street Bridge. “At the same time, Vancouver was still very much a working-class, industrial city, and while my generation doesn’t have a personal connection with it, it’s still one that we can identify with and recognize.”

"False Creek" with artist Tom Carter

“And from the first Pantages (1908), I saved loads of the ornamental plaster and various items found in the safe, including blueprints and ledger books.” Tom’s vast collection includes hundreds of table photos, menus, programs and signage

from early nightclubs including The Palomar, The Cave, Isy’s, Arctic Club, Commodore and early vaudeville venues including both Pantages Theatres as well as the State, Royal, Avon, and Beacon. “I have the entire music library from a working 1920s dance orchestra in Vancouver—along with folios for individual players as taken off the stands after the last gig in 1929, and a massive local audio collection of transcription discs from Vancouver radio.” To view Tom Carter’s incredible visualizations visit www.tomcartergallery.com

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Tom Carter boasts a trove of entertainment treasures including pieces saved from the second Pantages Theatre (1917) before demolition, including stained glass, seats, a piece of the elaborate music stand from the orchestra pit—even signed photos of vaudeville celebrities from manager Roy McLeod’s office.

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CHANCE A STAR ON HURSTFIELD THE RISE Story by Joe Leary

It’s not uncommon for a kid to grow up dreaming of one day being an actor. However, it’s a lot less frequent for a kid to grow up acting while on the path to becoming an adult. First appearing on screen at the age of four in the TV movie “Innocent,”appearances soon followed in a variety of projects, including “Mark & Russell’s Wild Ride” and the 2018 thriller, “Darc.” In addition to his myriad on-screen work, Chance has also provided a number of voice roles, including Nickelodeon’s animated series, “Paw Patrol” and Netflix’s live-action film, “The Package,” which has accrued hundreds of millions of views and is going viral almost monthly. He played Atticus in the film, “Good Boys”in 2019; voiced the final season of “Dinosaur Train” for PBS as well as voice work for “The Bravest Knight” and Disney Channel’s “Pup Academy.”In addition, Chance landed a major role alongside Mel Gibson in the feature film, “Fatman.” That’s a pretty full resume for someone just 17 years of age. As for what led him to find his North Star in the entertainment world? “I don’t think I ever really thought about it, as I was only just learning to walk and talk when I did my first role at four,” says Chance. “But I think because my dad is in entertainment and being around him at the studio and seeing his big events, it was pretty evident that I was going to be a part of the industry one way or another.” Chance’s father is veteran song writer, music producer and former recording artist, Adam H, proving the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

“He certainly has a lot of connections in the music and acting world but it was actually an agent that asked him if I wanted to do an audition. I went for it and got it and it was complete love. “If I didn’t get that I don’t know that I’d be doing this today”. The acting roles and voice gigs have come fast and furious for Hurstfield through the years. Among the most notable, Chance landed a pivotal role that saw him traverse from young kid to young man on the ABC prime time drama, “A Million Little Things.” Over its fiveseason run from 2018-2023, the actor earned critical acclaim portraying Danny, the son of Jon and Delilah Dixon, who ultimately comes out as gay in the opening season of the series. It was a vital character with a compelling story and one that proved beneficial to scores of viewers, themselves struggling with their own sexual identity. “One of the beautiful parts of my job is that every now and then, the opportunity to play a character that tells the story of many people out there comes along,” he says.”Danny was one of those characters. “One of the best parts of the show was that the writers and my co-stars were so talented that sometimes when you’d watch the show,you’d forget you’re watching a show and get lost in the stories that are these peoples’ lives. Many people find themselves able to resonate with what these characters are going through. “I got a multitude of messages from teenagers my age telling me how Danny served as a role model for them, in allowing them to be more

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One such example is Chance Hurstfield. The Vancouver-born actor easily qualifies — already—as a showbiz veteran.

comfortable with who they are. Not only that, but adults messaged me, talking about how special it is for a character like Danny to be on TV.

“It’s ambitious but I’m dead set on making it happen. But I’m also a really big Marvel fan and when I was five or six years old I’d walk around wearing superhero capes.

“They would always tell me that if they had a Danny to look up to when they were growing up, they would feel a lot less pressure to simply be who they are.

“Now I realize watching these Marvel movies, they look pretty muscular.So I should probably start beefing up now because I want those offers within the next five or six years”.

“It’s miraculous to me how simply playing a character on television can strike so many chords within one’s heart. It’s one of the best parts of the job.”

While actors are known for often being under non-disclosure agreements and on-hold for projects they cannot discuss, the young Hurstfield can provide a glimpse of the future.

Predicting and following one’s path in the film industry can be difficult to navigate. But it’s best to have a game plan and see it forward.

“There are definitely some things on the horizon that would lead me to believe there are some very good days ahead.”

Chance Hurstfield has one in mind.

Location: Sutton Place Hotel Photographer: Dylan Duffault Stylist: Arezoo Aliperti Clothes: Holt Renfrew Vancouver Black suit/White shirt: Alexander McQueen Denim pants and jacket: 3.PARADIS “Date night” Outﬁt, Top and jacket: Dolce & Gabbana

“Ideally I’d love to be on that Leonardo DiCaprio trajectory and have a feature film or two under my belt by the age of 19, and start solidifying my name towards larger features,” he says of his “feature” future. He did “This Boy’s Life” and the offers started coming in after that.

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“It’s miraculous to me how simply playing a character on television can strike so many chords within one’s heart. It’s one of the best parts of the job.”

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New Westminster’s ‘Honour House’ A Place of Healing for Those who Protect our Lives Story by Joe Leary Photos supplied by Honour House

home away from home for Canadian Armed Forces Veterans, Emergency Services Personnel, First Responders and their families, Honour House is a refuge for the extended families and loved ones requiring vital medical care and treatment from serious, and often life-threatening, injuries incurred while serving in the line of duty.

It contains eleven private bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, a shared kitchen, living room, media rooms and sun rooms, along with common spaces. Completely modernized and fully wheelchair accessible, it provides much-needed comfort for those in a most difficult time of need.

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Located in a serene, residential New Westminster neighbourhood, Honour House is a beautifullyappointed, fully-renovated, retro-fit heritage home that is available free of charge to family members of those personnel who have to travel to Vancouver for treatment.

The concept of Honour House came from Al De Genova, a prominent name in civic initiatives. “One evening, my wife and I were watching ‘Peace Warrior,’ a documentary about Captain Trevor Greene,” he says of the origins of his idea. “While in Afghanistan, he took his helmet off—out of respect—while meeting elders, at which point a young insurgent planted an axe into his head, splitting it in half.” Amazingly, Capt. Green survived and was transported to Germany, where, once stabilized, he was operated on and transferred to Alberta for treatment at a very specialized clinic for brain injuries. It was at that time that they said he would not recover.

Al De Genova, creator of Honour House

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“When he was transferred back to Vancouver there was nowhere for our men and women in uniform, and their families to stay while receiving treatment. I knew I had to do something about it.” Thus Honour House was born. “I was challenged by then Chief of Defence Staff General Rick Hillier to this safe space. He said to me—I remember it to this day— “I hear you want to build Honour House. He then put the Challenge Coin in my hand and challenged me to build Honour House.” Challenge Coins are used by military and other organizations as a method to promote camaraderie while recognizing outstanding achievement. That challenge issued, the next came in the form of where to create this structure. “We needed a location that was supported by zoning and in a neighbourhood where people felt it wouldn’t impact too much activity,” says De Genova. “I knew we

“It was when we received the call from New Westminster Mayor Wayne Wright, to ‘look no further—we want this house in New Westminster.’” As an adjunct of Honour House, Honour Ranch opened its doors in 2019, providing a place of tranquility which serves as a retreat offering education and personal growth. Honour Ranch is located 10 kilometres south of Ashcroft, BC, and contains a hundred acres of rolling hills overlooking the South Thompson River. Much like Honour House, the needs for Honour Ranch are greater than ever from the men and women in uniform dealing with operational and post-traumatic stress. “We have ten cottages and the main lodge but need more, and are in the early preparations of building our equine therapy program with four horses. The cost of this is expensive but that is just a number. The cost to the mental health and wellbeing of our men and women in uniform is what is really at stake here.” Honour House is an independent registered charity and receives no direct funding, relying instead on various fundraising efforts and the generous support of volunteers who help to maintain the properties. “We are grateful for the community support we receive, both with volunteers’ time and donations,” says De Genova. “Our volunteers are the lifeline of Honour House and Honour Ranch, and we wouldn’t be where we are without them.” It’s a tireless endeavour for De Genova and all involved to make Honour House and Honour Ranch continue to assist the people who have provided the ultimate sacrifice. “It’s the least we can do to take care of

needed it to house ten or eleven units then as the need was already so great.”

our men and women in uniform who give unconditionally each and every day,” he adds.

The journey took three location attempts, dealing with municipalities, the provincial government and the development community for assistance.

“They do so much to look after us. It’s the least we can do to look after them.”

Interior spaces of New Westminster's Honour House

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“Our volunteers are the lifeline of Honour House and Honour Ranch, and we wouldn’t be where we are without them.”

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Your ride can take you down many different roads. It’s dangerous to go alone. With Yamaha’s 60+ years of

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the renowned supersport R series or the best selling Adventure bike, The Tenere 700, we’ve got you covered. Rev your engine, Rev your heart. Buy a Yamaha.

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“It was the spot where the elite hung out and the pictures that line the walls tell quite the story.”

THE PENTHOUSE NIGHTCLUB

A RICH HISTORY WITH A TWINGE OF MYSTERY Story by Joe Leary Photography by Jacob Couture

With a history that contains elements of both shady and savvy, the legendary nightspot is the subject of books and documentaries; it has been used frequently for movie and television shoots; and continually hosts narrated tours outlining its incredible past. The Penthouse Nightclub serves as a shrine to the ‘who’s who’ of the giants of showbiz. Back in the early days, if anyone of note swung through Vancouver, they popped up at the Penthouse: everyone from Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. to Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, the Mills Brothers and Ella Fitzgerald.

More recent celebrity guests include Sylvester Stallone, Halle Berry, the late Ray Liotta, and scores of professional sports stars. It was the spot where the elite hung out and the pictures that line the walls tell quite the story. Throughout its colourful history, the Penthouse has literally seen it all: police raids; criminal charges, including “living off the avails of prostitution”; liquor license seizures; and even a murder. 153

Eighty years later, The Penthouse is still going strong and has become a fabled Vancouver entertainment institution.

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he Penthouse has been a staple of downtown Vancouver’s nightlife since opening its doors back in 1943.

And while the surrounding landscape has given way to major development and towering condos that dot every square foot of the downtown core, the historic venue endures in its familiar location at 1019 Seymour Street. The club adjoins the original family home: the oldest remaining registered house in Downtown/Yaletown South. Ross Filippone with jazz great Louis Armstrong and vocalist Velma Middleton

At a racially-divided time when Sammy Davis Jr was denied hotel rooms in Vancouver, the Filippones rolled out the red carpet, letting him stay in their apartment

It was there where the four Filippone brothers—Joe, Mickey, Jimmy, and Ross— began their base of operations in the 1930s. In 2011 it was also the scene of a nearly disastrous fire, which threatened to gut the entire 30,000 square foot structure. Danny Fillipone is the owner of The Penthouse and has been working at the legendary nightspot since he was 18 years old. Starting as a waiter, Danny had the opportunity of working for a few years with his uncle, Joe Filippone, the family patriarch. “It was a real treat to learn the operation from Uncle Joe,” says Danny. “Working alongside him was always an adventure. He had the ability to make everyone feel like they were walking right into his living room. “I recognized, growing up, that being a Filippone had its perks—especially when it came to my grades in high school.”

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Joe Fillipone was shot dead in his office in 1983 in a botched robbery attempt, at which point control of the family business went to Danny’s father, Ross. He had always been working alongside his brother but dealt with the financial and business side, allowing Joe to hold court and showcase his larger-than-life personality.

“After my Uncle Joe passed away, it was literally a sit-down face-to-face with my father and he simply asked, ‘We need to know—are you in or are you out?’” Danny Filippone was all in and Expo 86 became his first true test as Manager, bringing in a few new ideas; a renovation refresh and live music acts to attract new clientele. “My goal was to make the Penthouse a multi-venue space”. Ross Filippone passed away in 2007. The Penthouse is still owned by the Filippone family and operated by Ross’ son Danny, who dutifully carries on the family legacy and the Penthouse remains a beacon in the city’s nightlife scene. “We’ve done a good job in Vancouver of bringing in the new but not always preserving the old,” says Aaron Chapman, local historian and author of the best-selling chronicle on the Penthouse, Liquor, Lust and the Law. “The city has changed so much— especially downtown—over the years, but there are a few places left that your grandparents might have gone to, your parents went to and that you can go to. “You can almost count them on one hand. The Penthouse is one of those places that make up the DNA of the city. “And for all the stories about the police liquor raids, celebrities, musicians and sports stars who visited, ate, drank and entertained inside those four walls, that you can still go there on a night yourself, that’s a great thing. It’s living history.”

Danny Filipone now operates The Penthouse and has been working at the legendary nightspot since he was 18 years old.

And while the vaunted structure remains in its original location amid the ever-changing neighbourhood, developers stand at the ready, chequebooks in hand, should Danny Filippone decide it’s time to finally turn out the lights at the Penthouse for good.

“Over the years, it’s impossible to not notice the changes in development that surrounds us,” he states. “It seems like every couple months I’m getting a knock on the door from developers and realtors. “My goal is to operate the Penthouse Nightclub for as long as customers keep marching through those famous front doors!”

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The four Filippone Brothers were posthumously inducted into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame and proudly hold their place in Vancouver’s history.

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GA Checkpoint Celebrates Fifty Years Story by Joe Leary Photos supplied by GA Checkpoint

A Checkpoint has a history that dates to 1973, when it was simply known as “Pit Stop,” selling Yamaha motorsports and marine equipment. That eventually led to a name change and growth to five retail locations around the Lower Mainland within the first five years. Today, the business has been streamlined with two fortified locations in Port Coquitlam and Abbotsford.

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Owner Gord Aulenback has been in the business of selling “fun” for over half a century and in 2010, joined forces with Brendan Keys. In doing so, the pair have added multiple boat lines, including Hewescraft and Kingfisher, while also expanding the area of inflatable boats, and are now the largest such dealer in the Pacific Northwest and the largest Yamaha dealer in Western Canada.

Yamaha is the brand that Gord first aligned with and he has stuck with them for fifty years. “Fun is a generational thing and given the fact that GA Checkpoint has a fifty year history in the marketplace, it’s important that our clients and customers become more than just that. They become family,” he says. “It’s all about relationships,” adds co-owner Brendan Keys. “We see the young guy in his 20s buying a dirt bike from us and then they’re coming back years later with their family to buy a boat for them all to enjoy. Our focus is to get our customers outside and to be able to enjoy the wonderful lifestyle we enjoy in BC.”

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In fifty years, you know your business thoroughly and your customers; and the level of service offered is second to none.

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“The product is second to none,” he notes.

In fifty years, you know your business thoroughly and your customers; and the level of service offered is second to none. Another vital component is the knowledge of the staff at GA Checkpoint.

GA Checkpoint is all in on the Yamaha brand: motorcycles; eBikes; ATVs; outboard motors; waverunners; inflatables; sport boats; aluminum boats; fishing boats and anything else that you need for water or on- or off-road.

“They enjoy being here and selling the products that we offer and have contributed to the success of the brand over 50 years,” says Aulenback.

“Our success at GA Checkpoint is the passion, because we are selling fun,” says Keys. “If someone wants to go

“And seeing the enjoyment on the faces of the customers, and getting the feedback from them after the fact—that’s what it’s all about. We love introducing new people to the outdoor lifestyle through motorsports and marine.”

waterskiing or if somebody just wants to get out and explore the coast or go all the way across the Strait of Georgia in all types of water, we’ve got a boat for you.”

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Clearly, the business has become an unqualified success and Aulenback attributes that to the Yamaha name.

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GLOBAL WATCH COMPANY Story by Joe Leary Photos by Jacob Couture

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“I have always appreciated the craftsmanship of creating spaces and things that are aesthetically and functionally pleasing.”

Or in more modern speak, it is something that remains a constant source of happiness and pleasure. There could be no truer example than that of an elegant timepiece. With over a quarter-century experience in the jewellery industry, Global Watch Company has become a major influence, and one of the most notable luxury retailers in Western Canada since being founded in 2008. “It has always been my dream to create my own company,” says Global Watch Company founder Sassan Pourfar. “I built the experience, learned the know-how and earned the reputation since the late 90s when I started in the industry.” Coming to Canada in 1999, Pourfar has an education in architecture. “I have always appreciated the craftsmanship of creating spaces and things that are aesthetically and functionally pleasing. “During my youth I worked with a few watch stores and learned to do minor repairs. That’s when I learned to appreciate timepieces.” Beginning by collecting colourful Swatch watches as early as ten years old, Sassan found his passion in mechanical watches at 14 when he was able to see the inside of the working mechanism: the technical aspects, the complications and craftsmanship.

The Global Watch Company has expanded exponentially in its 15-year history, with more to come. They opened the first store in Vancouver’s Cathedral Place in 2014, carrying a handful of Swiss brands. That was followed two years later, when Canada’s first and largest free-standing Rolex Boutique opened in the Shangri-La Hotel. Continuing on their growth trajectory, Global Watch Company opened Canada’s largest free-standing Chopard Boutique, which is now located on Alberni Street. Last year Sassan opened Western Canada’s only Tudor Boutique, making it the largest in the country. “We have several free-standing mono brand boutiques on Alberni,” he says, noting the street “has been a great address for GWC, with plenty of further potential.”

from start to finish, with a larger selection of products and access to exclusive pieces. We work with the most coveted brands in the world and are here to deliver the best brand experience to our clients.” It’s a realization that luxury timepieces and jewellery are not everyday purchases and as such the experience and relationship must achieve the highest of standards. “Often these items signify investments or purchases that mark significant milestones, such as promotions, weddings or birthdays,” he says.“Thus, it’s a privilege for me to have the opportunity to play a role in these celebrations and become a part of our clients’ cherished memories. “This holds great significance for me.”

And there is more to come as the company continues to grow. “The luxury market in Vancouver is always changing,” he says, “and the next luxury destination will be on the West Side, with Oakridge Park development. We are privileged to announce Global Watch Company will expand with a few projects there in the coming year.” While Pourfar’s personal motivation is to be “the best of the best, of the best,” the focus of Global Watch Company’s brand remains on the overall boutique experience. “When clients visit any of our boutiques, they are provided with the full-brand experience

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ccording to a classic John Keats poem, “A thing of beauty is a joy forever: Its loveliness increases; it will never. Pass into nothingness.”

JESSEL EVENTS Sarahang Concert Gala

rian Jessel BMW and the Brian Jessel Foundation proudly sponsored the Sarahang Entertainment Fundraiser Gala Dinner and Concert in collaboration with the Afghan community in Vancouver. The event aimed to nourish young minds and fuel kids' meal plans in Vancouver's elementary schools. The gala was attended by over 600 people and featured a performance by Afghan superstar Najim Navabi.

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Coast Mental Health’s Courage to Come Back Awards 2023 As proud sponsors, the Brian Jessel Foundation is honored to share in the mission of transforming lives and creating lasting change within the realm of mental health. We illuminate the path to recovery and inspire communities to embrace empathy, erase stigma, and foster an inclusive environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and supported.

Ertuğrul and HCI FUNDRAISING EVENT Brian Jessel BMW and Brian Jessel BMW Foundation, with the cooperation of HCI and Ertuğrul (The #1 Turkish actor), provided a North American tour to increase access to clean water in poor communities worldwide.

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EVENTS

rian Jessel BMW hosted its exclusive Summer Soirée event, an evening of luxury, sophistication, and stunning cars, exclusively for VIP clients. The highlyanticipated event was attended by high-profile business people, celebrities, and influencers, who were able to connect and network in an opulent atmosphere. Jessel Magazine, known for creating unique platforms for luxury events, was proud to be a part of this celebration of elegance and style.

Summer Soirée Event

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Greek Festival 2023 Our Jessel Magazine Group had a blast at the Greek Festival, bringing the magic of Greece to life with a mesmerizing photo booth and a cozy lounge area, complete with an unforgettable Nespresso experience, in Kitsilano, Vancouver. We were thrilled by the overwhelming response as enthusiastic visitors flocked to our booth, eagerly inquiring about the prestigious Brian Jessel BMW brand and the captivating Jessel Magazine.

Phantom Creek Winery Visit in Osoyoos

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Brian Jessel BMW hosted a VIP Osoyoos Retreat for its customers that was nothing short of spectacular. The event offered an exclusive and unforgettable experience that aimed to provide customers with the luxury lifestyle that Brian Jessel BMW is renowned for. The retreat included amazing helicopter journeys, luxurious BMW shuttles, and exquisite experiences at the Phantom Creek Winery. The event was a resounding success and demonstrated Brian Jessel BMW's commitment to providing its customers with a unique and luxurious experience. The company's dedication to exceptional service and quality was evident throughout the retreat and reaffirmed its position as a leader in the luxury car dealership industry.

EVENTS

he 24-hour event brought our customers and guests through our most luxurious VIP weekend getaway.

In collaboration with BMW Canada, our attendees witnessed first-hand the impressive power of BMW's M lineup. The electrifying adventure proves to be an unforgettable one for our fans and enthusiasts.

Area 27 Racetrack Event in Osoyoos

15 Shades of Pink Gala The mesmerizing pictures captured at the 15 Shades of Pink Gala in Vancouver! Brian Jessel BMW and Jessel Magazine were honored to participate in this unforgettable event, hosted by @harpsohal.

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Forbes Global Alliance Event We were honored to be part of theM Interplay Summit organized by Forbes Global Alliance on September 8th. As Jessel Magazine and Brian Jessel Foundation, we had the pleasure to share our experiences in many topics such as diversity, luxury retailing, and building the luxury lifestyle for many brands, The event also focused on the intersection of technology, creativity, and society.

Bolly Royal Gala Night Event

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On the evening of September 8th, 2023, Brian Jessel BMW had the privilege of supporting the British Columbia chapter of ICAl (Chartered Accountants Association). We took pride in providing a sophisticated and welcoming space for our valued customers and BMW enthusiasts to gather and engage with one another. The team at Brian Jessel BMW is committed to delivering a seamless and personalized experience that exceeds expectations.

EVENTS

rian Jessel BMW proudly served as the Gold Sponsor at the Michael Cuccione Fundraising Gala event. This heartwarming event united 800 incredible individuals, joining hands in support of the Michael Cuccione Foundation's mission to fight cancer in children.

The Michael Cuccione Foundation Fundraising Gala

Prostate Cancer Supportive Care Fundraiser Dinner On the evening of October 2nd, Brian Jessel BMW hosted the 2023 Prostate Cancer Supportive Care - PCSC Program Fundraiser Dinner at the Vancouver Club. It was a day that brought together clinicians, specialists, staff, and investors from across industries to share novel research findings, foster networking within the community, and stimulate discussions about the necessity and importance of mental health and aftercare for patients and their families.

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Italian Fashion Show The opening night of the 5th edition of Italian Design Weeks at our Brian Jessel BMW dealership was an unforgettable experience filled with glamour, elegance, and a fine ambiance. The evening included a sophisticated cocktail reception, various Italian brands in Vancouver, and a stylish runway show featuring talented fashion designers showcasing their latest collections. Our guests, which included industry experts and luxury design enthusiasts, enjoyed an exclusive launch of the latest BMW 5 and i5 models, which added the powerful touch of BMW to the event. The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd was captivated by the stunning designs on display

The United Nations of Canada Model Conference 2023

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On the evening of October 13th, the Brian Jessel BMW team was honored to host this year's Model UN conference, which focused on youth delegates, social justice, and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Together with special guests Jamie Webbe, President & CEO of the United Nations Association in Canada, Aluki Kotier, President of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, Consuls and Vice Consuls from around the world, as well as executives from the development, tech, and investment sectors, we had an unforgettable evening contributing to building a healthier, fairer and more sustainable future for all.

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LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION Story by Leslie Diana

At the time of this writing, the WGA have ratified an agreement while SAG and AFTRA (American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) remain in negotiations. While Canadian actors support their US colleagues, they are able to work on ACTRA (The Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists) contracts, and some productions have been granted SAG-AFTRA waivers. British Columbia is Canada’s largest foreign production hub and North America’s fourthlargest centre for motion picture production. Hallmark’s “When Calls the Heart” finds a home in BC and, thanks to their fans, “The Hearties,” is currently filming Season 11. It’s an uplifting period drama inspired by Janette Oke’s bestselling book series and created by Michael Landon Jr. and Brian Bird. WCTH is set against the backdrop of an early 1900s coal mining town and blends elements of romance, adventure and family values.

Starring Erin Krakow, Pascale Hutton, Kavan Smith, Jack Wagner, Chris McNally, Kevin McGarry and a talented supporting cast, it weaves a powerful story of hardship, faith and love. It airs on Hallmark Channel in the US and Super Channel’s ‘Heart and Home’ in Canada. Highway thru Hell is airing its 12th season on Discovery Channel and Crave. It’s one of the longest-running, unscripted series in Canada, in which Jamie Davis Motor Truck & Auto, a heavy-vehicle rescue/ recovery towing company based in Hope, B.C., illustrates the hardships of operating along B.C. highways such as the Coquihalla. Tyson Media is filming Season 3 of Pets & Pickers, taking viewers on an uplifting mission to help animals in need. The docuseries follows RAPS ,a one-of-a-kind animal hospital, and covers the story of animals, their owners and the special team of veterinarians who care for them. It currently streams on Crave, CTV.ca and app, and airs on Animal Planet and Animal Planet USA. DOPPELGÄNGERS: Face to Face examines the curious phenomenon of identical strangers

and our desire to meet ourselves.It follows six unique characters with strong individualistic personalities, interesting passions and unique life stories as they embark on an adventure to meet their “second self.” The documentary that first aired on CBC’s The Passionate Eye is now streaming on CBC Gem. British Columbia is an international force in animation. Recognized with many prestigious awards and nominations, B.C.’s computer animation companies are breaking out some of the most prolific productions for television and direct-to-video, long-form CGI for feature films, commercials and interactive entertainment. Wildbrain Studios is one of the many creative companies producing animation series in Vancouver including the LEGO show Ninjago: Dragons Rising. In this show, a ninja master must train a new generation of heroes to help find elemental dragons who can save the planet before the forces of evil use the same dragon energy to destroy this new world. The cast includes Deven Mack, Sabrina Pitre, Sam Vincent, Vincent Tong, Kelly Metzger, Brian Drummond, Kazumi Evans and Nicole Oliver. Season 1 is currently airing on Netflix worldwide.

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his year has been a challenge to the entertainment industry throughout North America because of Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and Writers Guild of America (WGA) strikes.

Driving it Home

SUMMER IN THE CITY… Story by Leeta Liepins: TV Host/Co- Executive Producer: Our City Tonight TV airing Sundays at 10:30am on CHEK TV Ambassador of the Extraordinary Italian Taste Tour - Italian Chamber of Commerce Canada West Instagram: @ourcitytonight, @culturebitesvancouver @LifewithLeeta Photo by Said Aziz

One-part epic weather, one-part voracious appetite for all things fun. Let’s enjoy a look back at the summer of 2023. There is a lot to unpack here, so let’s get to it!

hat could be more iconic than Vancouver’s summer festivals? From Bard on the Beach to the Coastal Jazz Festival to Pride Parade, truly something for every girl and boy and others, too.

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These were participatory events that allowed and encouraged us to reconnect as a community. There was palpable energy generated, and it was a joy to experience. The Honda Celebration of Light never disappoints, and this summer the crowds came early and in numbers not seen before. The Celebration of Light became a metaphoric vehicle representative of our emancipation. That in itself was cause for celebration.

The Michelin Star nabobs popped by to officially certify that certain of our local eateries prepare food on a level befitting those burdened with sophisticated palates: a surefire way to ensure that one can never just pop into these beloved places without a reservation made months before. What they missed, of course, was the myriad of culinary delights and special spots that dot every main and back street in our fair multicultural Vancouver. Those who know, know. Our dining out options have always been both diverse and delicious. The PNE and Playland never disappoint, and this summer was no exception. The PNE Fair itself is like a day on the

mystical island of Never Never Land. Adult behavior is not condoned. The Summer Nights Concert series lineup was testament to Vancouver’s international entertainment status. Whether missing it all for far too long simply whetted our appetites, or the critical mass of entertainment opportunities has simply now been achieved, none can deny that Vancouver has now become one fun place to be!

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