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ALBERTA’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT PAGING COMPANY
with Mark & Marty
H
ello to you and hello to spring. No doubt this is a far-fetched
thought. Bear with me on this… I was at a jam session with members of local band ‘The Hacks’ the other day. They have a great shot of The Beatles on their studio wall. Well, we got to talking and maybe a little drinkin’ and it was decided that it is time for Ringo and Paul to put out a tune or two together. They
Paul & Ringo
waiter contest was Chris. Word was that they raised over $90,000. The Edmonton Chapter of the Ireland-Canada Chamber of Commerce held its second annual St. Patrick’s Day Ball at the Sutton Place Hotel on the 14th of March. Great news. The entire room was involved with naming a new education endowment fund. The Edmonton Journal’s Nick Lees put up an 18-year old bottle of Jameson Whiskey to the person who came up with the new name. The winner of the hooch is Tony Flanaghan of Amalgamated Mining. He came up with the name, The Wild Geese Endowment Fund. He also put his money where his mouth is… won a bidding war against Chamber President Colm O’Carroll for a trip across the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 2. Flanaghan wound up paying
the Queen Mary 2
were a killer rhythm section. I would be very sad if they didn’t fire it up one more time before it is too late. So there Ringo, Paul—the gauntlet has been thrown down. That should do it….
Now on to other things… I have been quite busy at fundraisers as of late. Considering the shape of the economy, I am happy to report that the last three events I hosted have made money for their causes. The 2009 Alzheimer Benefit Dinner of Nations was held at the Crowne Plaza on Friday the 13th. This event pits local celebrities against each other as they try to raise the most money Brian Hall in tips. This year’s event saw CITYTV’s Michele McDougall, Jesse Lipscomb, Global’s Daintre Christensen, Andrew Misle, CISN’s Chris Scheetz and Ched’s MR. Brian Hall go head to head. Some highlights include: MLA Thomas Lukazuk leading his table with a $800 dollar bid to mess up Hallsy’s hair. No go. “Not enough,” said Hallsy. Out of the corner of my eye, just after Michele drove a dinner roll off my head, I witnessed Chris dressed as a woman in order to raise some cash. The bun off my head was ordered by one of Michele’s tables. The winner of the
clothier Sam Abouhassan paid $1000 to have a photo taken with all the members of the hockey team. A very nice contribution even after he donated a custom made suit for the auction. Watch for our Premier wearing a nice suit.
Blast from the past. He left our city as a captain and landed in Vancouver via Regina as a major. I ran into the Salvation Army’s Major Brian Venables at its Western Canada Public Relations & Development Retreat in Kananaskis. He is the divisional secretary for PR and development in Vancouver. He did some great work for our city and BC is lucky to have him.
Coming up… The Spirit of Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon is set to go Sunday, April 19th. It is a sure sign of spring. There’s also a silent auction. You will see many local guest models strut their stuff in cloths from Blu’s Womens Wear, C’est Sera, Derk’s Menswear, Night Owl and TK Clothing Co., to name a few. Hair by Lorenzo Lawrence Salon. The event is supporting McDougall House, which is a recovery home for women. Tickets at participating stores or 780.498.6216
The 5th Annual Jeans & Jersey Dinner and Auction in support of the Alberta Diabetes Foundation will roll $5100 for the trip. Roxanne Saturday, April 25th. and Patrick Devaney of A night of comedy, Sherlock Holmes/Rose & live and silent Crown and my new local auctions, great food, watering hole Devaney’s put and pending playoffs the trip up of auction. special guest and Hats off to the co-chairs honorary chair Andrew of the ‘Sips, Sticks and Cogliano, #13 of the Andrew Cogliano Stilettos’ event. Doug Oilers. No worries with Goss and Dr. Bob what to wear—just put on Westbury held a fantastic event at your favourite sports Ernest’s Dining Room at NAIT. The night jersey and a pair of jeans. was a fundraiser supporting the B2Ten The event will take place organization and the Ladies First Hockey at the Sawmill Banquet Centre. For info and tickets, Foundation. Both these organizations help our nation’s get hold of Angela at angela@afdr.ab.ca or athletes and the women’s national hockey team reach 780.492.8702. I really like the whole concept of ADF: their Olympic goals. The whole mandate is to raise money and find a cure. Those in attendance included big supporters like Period. √ Premier Ed Stelmach, Angus Watt, Don Metz, Bruce Saville, John Day, and Irv and Dianne Kipnes. Mark Scholz, owner of MES Communications Inc. Guests enjoyed a night of fantastic food and wine as offers a variety of services including production, well as a live auction, and a hot stove hosted by CBC’s creative and entertainment. For more information or Cassie Campbell with members of our woman’s to suggest a story idea, email national hockey team. A special highlight was when mscholz@edmontonians.com
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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Other women you look up to: Dr. Helen Steed, surgeon and gynecological oncologist. She does amazing work in research at the Royal Alex, helping women with ovarian and other female reproductive cancers. She’s young, a busy mother of two and a marathon runner as well.
CARRIE DOLL –
T
heir faces and voices are familiar to most Edmontonians. They come into our living rooms and join us in our vehicles. But, how much do we really know about the wonderful and talented ladies in Edmonton media? I decided to find out about eight of them in radio and television. I fired off the same questions to each of them, and happily share their candid responses with readers. In the interest of fairness, they are presented in alphabetical order.
SEANNA COLLINS – EZ Rock Mornings/Global Edmonton Hometown: Born in Edmonton, raised in Calgary Years here: 22 years… since September 1987 Hobbies/distractions: I have very limited free time but when I do, I enjoy gardening, the theatre, walking with my dog, watching movies, dinner with my husband and friends… plus running my ladies group Babes Without Babes. Best part of being a media celebrity: I admit it... the special treatment and perks that often come along with the job and also being able to lend my name, voice and skills to charities that need extra help. Worst part of your job: Getting up before the birds, never getting enough sleep or having enough time... and having to deal with people who are overly judgmental, critical and never really hear what you say, only what they think you said. Advice for up-and-coming female broadcasters: Grow some thick skin, set your goals high and be confident that you can achieve them, and negotiate a great contract. Favourite Restaurant: Is there a bad one? Sorrentino’s, the Lingnan, Tazza, Il Forno, Violino’s, Mayfield Dinner Theatre, the King and I… so many more. Other women you look up: I am blessed to know so many wonderful women in Edmonton who are friends, acquaintances and business associates. I’d hate to leave out any but some who inspire me are Liz O’Neill of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Judy Harcourt of Harcourt & Associates, Susan Reade of SONIC FM, Lynda Steele of Global Edmonton, my personal friend Pat Williams... and the late Lois Hole and Eleanor Clark.
CTV Edmonton Hometown: I’m a northern Alberta girl Years here: 13 years Hobbies: I love to travel and my family and I squeeze in trips where we can. We also love the outdoors and spend a lot of time in the mountains hiking, biking and skiing. I’m also returning to my musical roots. I studied classical piano for 10 years but put it on the back burner when I went to university. I’ve rediscovered my passion for it and recently bought both a piano and a guitar. Distractions: My son. It’s hard to get anything done when he’s around because we have so much fun together! My Blackberry—I use it for everything including as an alarm clock, e-mail and now Twitter. Best part of being a media celebrity: My job enables me to meet/interview/chat with a lot of wonderful people… from the amazing kids I meet through my charity work at the Stollery Children’s Hospital to those in our community who show courage and leadership, and confront life’s challenges quietly and with conviction... to interviews I’ve done with celebrities like former U-S President Bill Clinton. It’s the people that make this job great. Worst part of your job: The news by nature is negative and sometimes that negativity can wear on me. That’s why my co-anchor Daryl McIntyre and I seize the lighter moments in our newscast where we can laugh and have a little fun Advice for up-and-coming female broadcasters: Immerse yourself in the industry. Watch/listen/read everything you can on a daily basis. Embrace long hours (there will be lots of them) and get involved in your community by volunteering your time. Finally, if you’re not really passionate about the work, choose another career. The pressure is intense and the feedback in not always kind. Favourite restaurant: Sorry. I honestly can’t pick just one. I tried… can’t do it… too many favourites. Other women you look up to: My Mom. She had 10 children—enough said. I will forever admire Lois Holeeven though she’s no longer with us—mother, successful business woman, Lieutenant-Governor. She seemed to strike the right balance in everything she did. Also women whose husbands and children serve in the line of duty.
NICOLA CROSBIE – Global Edmonton Weather Hometown: Duncan, B.C. A lovely little town in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island Years here: 3 1/2 years Hobbies/ distractions: Sewing, baking, working out… mad about golf, tennis, running, reading, writing for pleasure… my two beautiful children Best part of being a media celebrity: It thrills my girls that their friends see their mom on TV—but to them I’m just “Mummy” Worst part of your job: Everyone knowing if I make a mistake at my job... and having a bad hair day in front of the whole city. Advice for up-and-coming female broadcasters: Take any job you can in media and do it with excellence. I started with wheeling a video tape trolley around a newsroom... but I did it really well and was given other opportunities. Always be pleasant and don’t gossip.
GILLIAN FOOTE – The Bear Hometown: Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia—the smaaaall town on this season’s The Week the Women Went on CBC Years here: 5 Years Hobbies/distractions: Social butterfly...always out and about at events in the city. Host the Rush Lacrosse League at Rexall. Concert goer, charity events, traveling, always on the go. Best part of being a media celebrity: Meeting great people and doing cool/exclusive things are awesome, but being able to use my profile as a platform to help others through charity events like Stollery broadcasts… raising money for our community is near and dear to me. Worst part of your job: If I had to name one thing, it would be my alarm ringing so early in the morning. It never gets easy...especially being busy during the workweek, which is very common. Advice for up-and-coming female broadcasters: First of all, have fun. There’s no other industry like this one. Get to know your community, be open-minded, flexible, work hard on your profile and get out there. Develop thick skin and don’t burn any bridges. It’s all about ‘touching hands’, networking, and meeting great people. Favourite restaurant: Piccolino’s, The ThanhThanh and Mikado
Other women you look up to: I respect many women in media in this market; however, the woman I look up to most and admire isn’t in the media. She’s a nurse at The Stollery and her heart and soul are committed to that place. It blows me away to hear some of her stories and how she touches peoples lives in the smallest ways, and how the patients and their families touch her. She learns so much from them and knows not to take things for granted. It’s a powerful feeling when you touch a person’s life. Loving what you do for a living and giving back is the ultimate.
JACKIE RAE GREENING – CFCW Hometown: St. Albert— born & raised and still live there. Years here: When I was getting started in the business, worked in Red Deer and Drumheller, been working in Edmonton for 20 years. Hobbies/distractions: Curling. Curling. And… curling. Best part of being a media celebrity: The different and interesting people I get to meet from celebrities to noncelebrities. Worst part of your job: When I used to do the morning show, emceeing a charity event until late at night and then having to get up at 3am. Advice to up-and-coming female broadcasters: Work hard, have fun. Favourite restaurant: Sicilian Pasta Kitchen on Jasper Avenue. Other women you look up to: My Mom where I learned my love of sports and volunteering. Lois Hole… growing up in St. Albert, we used to go out and pick peas at the Hole’s. As I watched her become our L.G., I was so impressed that she didn’t change from the person I knew.
J’LYN NYE – Joe Morning Show Hometown: I call Sault. Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay, Ontario home—depending on which parent I’m visiting. Years here: 8 plus… since December of 2000 Hobbies/distractions: Love to read, love to write (book comes out this fall, being published by Key Porter)… Love music, motivational speaking, hanging out with my two dogs Tim and Neil, working out, renovating my house, and a good bottle of red wine. Best part of being a media celebrity: Um, good tables at restaurants. LOL. No, the best part is the people I get to meet… the wonderful experiences I have had because of my job. I love meeting people, hearing their stories. I love keeping the people of Northern Alberta entertained and informed. I consider myself very lucky to have had 18 wonderful years in television and now a great job in radio in the city I love. Worst part of my job: Getting up at 3 am. Actually, it isn’t that bad. I think the toughest part of the media gig has been some of the comments over the years about my hair, my clothes, my weight.. It always amazes me some people have no problem being very nasty to a person they’ve never met. My advice to other up and coming female broadcasters: I truly believe if you don’t have a passion for your job you will never succeed. Find that passion and unleash it— whether it’s reporting, producing, writing, anchoring or behind a radio mic. Give everything you have, every day. And develop a very thick skin. You’ll need it. Favourite restaurant: My new favourite is Bistecca Italia at 23rd Avenue and 111 Street and Café Deville on 124th Street. Other women you look up to: Without a doubt Lynda Steele. She is the consummate professional and I consider her one of the best in the business: not only an incredible journalist but an incredible friend as well. Also, I look up to any woman who has the confidence in herself to take chances… to take a leap of faith and do whatever it takes to make her life complete and happy. Strong, confident women are empowering to others. Continued on page 18
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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Poll
CELEBRATING
20
STATION
YEARS
With Linda Banister
FOUNDER DICK MacLEAN
APRIL 2009
Vol. XX
M
any of us are on the quest to find that special someone, but life is busy and it can be difficult to find the time to meet that perfect partner on our own. To compensate, new forms of matchmaking are constantly emerging and becoming increasingly popular. This month’s Poll Station focused on the new ways of dating.
No. 4
SHARON MacLEAN Publisher and Advertising Director Telephone: 780.482.7000 Fax: 780.488.9317 e-mail: info@edmontonians.com edmontonians.com
INSIDE
WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT CHARACTERISTIC IN A MATE OR PARTNER?
POLL STATION Match making/Banister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 WOMEN IN BUSINESS Salute/List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Alyssa Haunholter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Katie Soles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Norene Stasiewich . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Marcela Manderville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Westcorp Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Leanne Krawchuk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Melissa Dunkley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Miller Thomson LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Quantum Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Gail Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Suit Yourself/Pullishy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 CELEBRATING 20 YEARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 THE BUSINESS OF LOVE Counselling/Jespersen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 VISIONARIES Kerr/Gazin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Armour/Croucher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Briefs/Croucher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Social Media/Schwabe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 BARB DETERS
Percent
VOX POP Mark Scholz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Marty Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
31% 14% Said honesty was the most important
10%
9%
8%
Said compatibility Said personality Said trust/loyalty Said compassion was the most was the most were the most was the most important important important important
2% Said appearance was the most important
To begin the survey, respondents were asked to identify what they believed to be the most important characteristic in a mate or partner. The most frequent answer was honesty (31 percent), followed by compatibility (14 percent), personality (10 percent), trust/loyalty (nine percent) and compassion (eight percent). Appearance was only mentioned by two percent of the respondents, and 11 percent were unable to provide a response.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO MEET SOMEONE?
Editor
editor@edmontonians.com
FEATURE WRITERS NJ Brown Barb Deters Greg Gazin Rick Lauber Peter Drake McHugh Marg. Pullishy PHOTOGRAPHERS Terry Bourque Barb Deters Cindy Gannon Murray Sielski SPECIAL PROJECTS Edmontonians Transformers Tom Bradshaw Les Brost Steffany Hanlen Larry Ohlhauser GRAPHIC PRODUCTION Rage Studios Inc.
THIS MONTH’S COVER
30% Percent
COLUMNISTS Linda Banister John Berry Linda Bodo Cheryl Croucher Marty Forbes Muggsy Forbes Bruce Hogle Ryan Jespersen David Norwood Erin Rayner Mark Scholz Walter Schwabe Nizar J. Somji
20% 15%
9%
Said meeting Said meeting Said meeting someone through someone through someone through mutual friends work hobbies/clubs
8%
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT DIFFERENT DATING SERVICES? Before respondents were asked about a number of different dating services, they were asked if they believed there were any negative perceptions surrounding dating services in general. Sixty percent believed there were, while 27 percent indicated they believed there were not. Respondents were then asked if they, or someone they knew, had ever used an online dating service. Sixty percent indicated they did. Interestingly, the same question was asked back in 2006. Since then, there has been approximately a 30 percent increase in respondents that have tried it, or have known someone who has (61 percent versus 31 percent in 2006). Of these respondents, 85 percent ended up dating, or knew someone who had dated, the person they met through the online dating service (compared to 81 percent in 2006). Furthermore, 48 percent married, or knew someone who married, the person they met online. Respondents were then asked about speed dating, where men and women rotate to meet each other over a series of short “dates”, usually lasting from three to eight minutes. Not quite as popular, only 14-percent indicated they, or someone they knew, had participated in speed dating. Of these respondents, 43 percent indicated they had, or known someone who has, dated the person they met while speed dating; of those, one person married the person they met. Finally, respondents were asked if they, or someone they knew, had ever used a professional dating service to meet a prospective partner. Eighteen percent indicated they had tried a dating service. Of these respondents, 94 percent dated, or knew someone who had dated, the person they met; and 40 percent married, or knew someone who married, the person they met through the service. √
Monthly Poll Station Online Question
6%
Visit www.edmontonians.com to register your opinion
Said meeting Said meeting Said they didn’t someone through someone through know the best way social events church to meet someone
Next, respondents were asked for the best way or place for someone to meet a prospective date. Most frequently, respondents thought meeting someone through their friends was the best way (20 percent). Respondents also mentioned work (15 percent), through hobbies and clubs (nine percent), at a social event (eight percent), or at church (six percent). Interestingly, 30 percent of respondents did not know the best way or place to meet a prospective mate or partner.
Want a question included in the Edmontonians Poll? Contact Linda at 780.451.4444 or e-mail lbanister@edmontonians.com. Linda Banister is a certified management consultant and the owner of Banister Research and Consulting Inc., a full service provider of market research and program evaluation services. Visit www.banister.ab.ca.
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Kim Kerr Real & Virtual Photo by Terry Bourque Published by 399620 Alberta Ltd. on the first day of each month at C-100 Park Side Tower, 8920-100th Street Edmonton AB CA T6E 4Y8. ©All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Manuscripts: must be accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. Edmontonians is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All stories Copyright ©Edmontonians Publications Mail Agreement No. 40023292 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department C-100 Park Side Tower, 8920-100th Street Edmonton AB CA T6E 4Y8 Email: info@edmontonians.com
You force out toxins. Once the toxins are gone, the lymphatic fluid decreases and you lose inches. It is not water loss—rather, an exchange of minerals for toxins.
That’s a Wrap! Call Linda Perras at Suddenly Slimmer Day Spa
780.459.3444 pedicures. manicures. facials. aroma therapy message
www.suddenlyslimmerdayspa.com EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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4th Annual
W omen in Business T SALUTE TO
his fourth annual edition of Edmontonians devoted to women in business is our largest. It reflects the growing number of women who are entering the professions... starting thier own businesses... making a difference in our community and country. Within all industry sectors, women are moving into areas that require higher education. Our knowledge based economy not only provides greater opportunities, but also more diverse challenges for women entrepreneurs. As new technologies emerge, so does the need to keep informed... to improve products and services... to expand to new markets.
T
Featuring MELISSA DUNKLEY Co-President, Master Coach Trainer Results Now Inc. 13 Desjardins Terrace St. Albert T8N 5T9 780.459.2770 melissa@resultsnowinc.com www.resultsnowinc.com
Interestingly, many women entrepreneurs educate themselves as they build their businesses, and many start up with no business-related training. Some feel they don’t need courses that teach them traditional approaches; they are looking for creative new models that are more flexible and more likely to suit their particular circumstances. Two resources are at the forefront of “selfeducation”: The Internet has opened doors to a limitless wealth of information, management tools, and networking opportunities. Access to other business women and support groups is easier than ever before. Generally, women are more willing to share their successes and failures with other women.
KATIE SOLES President Soles and Company 1363 Falconer Road Edmonton, Alberta T6R 2C5 780.433.8936 katiesoles@shaw.ca
NORENE STASIEWICH
There are a number of local and national organizations that offer networking opportunities, role-modeling and mentoring, and career resources among other services to women in business. In addition, sector-specific groups and larger corporations provide programs and leadership forums. Women are also more likely to embark on journeys of “self-discovery”... working with consultants or coaches to improve their performance levels and strengthen their presentation skills. Edmontonians proudly profiles this year’s Women in Business—a diverse and dynamic collection of executives and entrepreneurs whose careers and lives are inspiring. √
Miller Thomson LLP Barristers & Solicitors Patent & Trade-Mark Agents 2700 Commerce Place 10155 - 102 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4G8 Fax: 780.424.5866 www.millerthomson.com
JESSICA BUCKWOLD Associate 780.429.9747 jbuckwold@millerthomson.com
High Performance Skating Systems
Founder & CEO Pivit, Inc. 780.660.4838 780.471.1845 norene@pivit.ca www.pivit.ca
STEFFANY HANLEN
GAIL A. TAYLOR, CIMA
Owner & Founder Speaker & Performance Coach 780.436.4159 steffany@steffanyhanlen.com www.steffanyhanlen.com
Vice-President, Investment Advisor The Gail Taylor Investment Group of CIBC Wood Gundy 1780 Manulife Place, 10180-101 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3S4 780.498.5078 • 1.800.232.7296 g.taylor@cibc.ca www.gailtaylor.com
Student-at-Law 780.429.9737 mchau@millerthomson.com
Quantum Speed
VANESSA HETTINGER General Manager & Master Instructor 780.489.4159 vanessa@quantumspeed.ca www.quantumspeed.ca
ALYSSA HAUNHOLTER Vice-President of Government Relations North West Capital 780.504.2623 ahaunholter@nwcap.tv
LEANNE C. KRAWCHUK
Westcorp Properties Inc. JANE BARRIGAN JESS General Manager Metterra Hotel on Whyte 10454-82 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T6E 4Z7 780.465.8150 jbarrigan@metterra.com www.metterra.com
Partner Parlee McLaws LLP Barristers & Solicitors Patent & Trademark Agents 1500 Manulife Place, 10180-101 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4K1 780.423.8625 Fax: 780.423.2870 lkrawchuk@parlee.com www.parlee.com
General Manager Matrix Hotel 10640-100th Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1J1 780.429.2861 jkirkland@matrixedmonton.com www.matrixedmonton.com
MARCELA MANDEVILLE
DONICA WILKIE-MORROW
Programs & External Relations Manager Alberta Women Entrepreneurs #100-10237-104 Street Edmonton, Alberta 780.422.1410 marcela.mandeville@awebusiness.com www.awebusiness.com
JOANN KIRKLAND
General Manager Varscona Hotel on Whyte 8208-106 Street Edmonton, Alberta T6E 6R9 780.434.6111 dmorrow@varscona.com www.varscona.com
MARIA CHAU
CAROLINE COOPER Associate 780.429.9772 ccooper@millerthomson.com
WENDI CROWE Partner 780.429.9764 wcrowe@millerthomson.com
FIONA FJELDHEIM Associate 780.429.9718 ffjeldheim@millerthomson.com
DRAGANA SANCHEZ GLOWICKI Associate 780.429.9703 dsanchezglowicki@millerthomson.com
SANDRA HAWES Partner 780.429.9787 shawes@millerthomson.com
TERESA MEADOWS Partner 780.429.9706 tmeadows@millerthomson.com
ROBYN MEARA Student-at-Law 780.429.9744 rmeara@millerthomson.com
MONIQUE PETRIN NICHOLSON Associate 780.429.9704 mpetrin@millerthomson.com
CHARMA STANG Associate 780.429.9729 cstang@millerthomson.com
CONNIE TAYLOR Partner 780.429.9780 ctaylor@millerthomson.com
LAUREN TORESON Associate 780.429.9708 ltoreson@millerthomson.com
ANALEA WAYNE Associate 780.429.9741 awayne@millerthomson.com
DALE WESTON Associate 780.429.9715 dweston@millerthomson.com
TANIS JALBERT Associate 780.429.9733 tjalbert@millerthomson.com
DEBRA CURCIO LISTER Partner 780.429.9763 dlister@millerthomson.com
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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lyssa Haunholter is a motivated 29-year old—with somewhat of a feisty streak. Sheʼs driven by challenges without boundaries. “I donʼt know what my limits are, and I am going to do everything I can to keep pushing them until I get to that point,” she says. “If I have something I can contribute, I am going to contribute until someone tells me I canʼt… even when they do, that will likely drive me even more.” These are exhilarating times for Alyssa and the companies she works for. She is Vice-President of Government Relations for North West Capital Inc., North West Upgrading Inc. and Enhance Energy Inc. “North West Capital is a venture capitalist firm with the foresight to pursue business development and investment opportunities in the energy sector where technical complexity is often a deterrent for others. Four years ago, that vision led to the beginning plans of designing a world scale upgrading and refining business, North West Upgrading, and an enhanced oil recovery business, Enhance Energy. “North West Upgrading is building an upgrader in Albertaʼs Industrial Heartland to upgrade bitumen into the clean fuels that Albertans need, using technology that is able to create pure capture-ready CO2. Enhance Energy is developing one of the largest carbon capture and storage projects in the world that would use the CO2 produced from upgrading and other industrial activity for enhanced oil recovery and secure CO2 storage,” she expains. With todayʼs heavily-debated environmental concerns, these are hot topics, indeed. As a child, Alyssaʼs life goals were varied: “Although I always contemplated various career paths including law, medicine, business and politics, I feel fortunate because my choices thus far have exposed me to all those disciplines. I always knew that I needed a challenge… to prove to myself that I could be faced with any obstacle and find a way to overcome it.” Alyssa pursued studies at the University of Alberta. “I took a degree in Sociology and Political Science.” She was exceptionally busy, piggy-backing her own painting company jobs with her classes. “I kept thinking that I was going into the business side of things, but always had a passion for politics and policy.”
Alyssa Haunholter Photo by Terry Bourque
By Rick Lauber That passion led her to an impressive career experience with Iris Evans, now minister of Alberta Finance and Enterprise. “I was her executive assistant, chief of staff and senior policy advisor and we worked together in three different portfolios.” Those years were nothing short of “amazing” and remembered fondly. There are few empty slots in Alyssaʼs daytimer and her Blackberry is seldom idle. The selfconfessed workaholic—not her favourite term, by the way—recognizes her priorities, knows what is important. “I probably would say that prioritizing my personal life is not as easy to do as prioritizing my professional life. That being said, I will always make time for my family and friends, no matter what.” Instead, Alyssa looks at her activity-filled days in a positive light: “When you see opportunity, the work never ends. I love what I do… and working for two small companies at the beginning stages of a business, we donʼt have a large team and there are not a lot of people to delegate things to, so we all work off our own strengths, and do everything it takes to get things done. We believe in our business and that is the driving force.” Alyssa, an Edmontoniansʼ Sizzling Twenty under 30 in 2007, wants “to be part of something big. I want to contribute to making this world a better place in some capacity and, whether that is working with companies whose vision and mandate are aligned with my own personal philosophies, consulting, working with governments or on policy... “I think at the end of the day, we just have to have our eyes on what makes us happy.” √
Unlocking the best thinking
By NJ Brown
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nergy and passion are not the only descriptors that come to mind when Katie Soles describes what she does for a living; they are just the most immediate. Within just a few minutes of talking with her, itʼs readily apparent that she is invested— heart and soul—in the belief that change, when consciously, carefully, and creatively managed, is a powerful tool for achieving positive results in industry, business or government. It is this very foundation on which Soles and Company has been facilitating results-driven change—whether in the context of corporate culture or social programs, mergers and acquisitions, or broad visions for the future—for over 20 years. As an “expert in the psychology of change,” Katie describes the process as “unlocking the best thinking of all the people we are working with—whether they are on the ground or at higher levels—and putting those ideas into motion in a constructive way.” To that end, Soles and Company custom tailors its services to clientsʼ needs. Rather than relying on permanent employees, Katie says, “We deliberately assemble a constellation of the best players in the business and build an allstar team for every project.” This approach has clearly paid off for both the company and its clients: Counted among the companyʼs many successes is the delivery of a Leadership Summit for Indiaʼs Fortune 100 companies. On the social front, it has lent its expertise to such issues as homelessness and safe communities. The company has gained recognition both locally and internationally for its groundbreaking work, and Katie herself has won several awards that recognize entrepreneurial excellence. Being the “captain of her own ship” is something that, in many ways, comes naturally. “I first learned business at my fatherʼs knee,” Katie recalls. “I grew up in Calgary during the first boom, and I watched my dad go from being a coal miner to vice-president of an oil company. Because of him, I am equally comfortable in the boardroom or on the shop floor.” Add to this a Masters of Organizational Behaviour, a Bachelor of Physical Education and Leisure Studies, and various jobs in government, and the net result is a strong base of both theoretical and practical knowledge. And it is this combination of theory and pragmatism that characterizes the “grace and elegance in simple processes, current procedures, and timeless principles” that Soles and Company has become known for. “The magic is in knowing what is needed when and being able to build a team to deliver that.” But Katieʼs energy and passion donʼt just begin and end with business. In digging deeper, it becomes evident that she is equally passionate about life. And, as with most successful entrepreneurs, balance is important to her. In describing her approach to life, Katie admits, “I have learned lately that itʼs not so much about time management as it is about energy management—managing energy so that it encompasses the spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental.” Part of this energy management is the conscious development of social relationships. Hence her unofficial membership in an unofficial group unofficially coined “FINE”—Friends in Need of Excitement— which exists for the sole purpose of gathering its members together once a month to “do something out of the norm.” And, let there be no mistake, when Katie says “out of the norm” sheʼs not talking Karaoke—sheʼs talking more along the lines of bungee jumping and sky diving. Howʼs that for energy? If change is an indication of anything, it is an indication of movement and growth. It is Katie Solesʼ job to ensure that the movement is forward and the growth is positive. And itʼs a job she does extremely well, not only because of her knowledge, education, and experience, but also because of her passion for life, her rapport with people, and her talent for not only managing, but embracing, change. √
Katie Soles Photo by Cindy Gannon
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Leanne Krawchuk Photo by Terry Bourque
Building Relationships…
FUTURES
Building By Rick Lauber
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or Leanne Krawchuk, BComm, LLB, itʼs all about building. But, youʼll be hard-pressed to find her with a hammer, cordless drill or power saw in hand. This smooth, sharp and sophisticated career woman is a legal beagle and partner with Edmontonʼs office of Parlee McLaws LLP. “I have specialized in working with clients who are involved in the construction industry and assisting in negotiating construction agreements,” Leanne explains. If there is a new property being constructed, thereʼs a good chance that sheʼll be involved. Additionally, she is involved with “mergers and acquisitions … the purchase and sale of the business. The other part of my practice would be involved in securities, public company and private company financings. Then there are takeovers and private placements.” In the fast-paced world of business, transactions are what appeal to Leanne. “You have a client that you may never have acted for and, within a very short period of time, you do a transaction that typically has a very quick closing date. You give your core attention to getting the deal done for the client.” When it comes to the legal field, many will immediately think of litigation practice. Whereas “litigation goes on for many years typically,” Leanne points out that “four months is a long-time horizon on the commercial transaction… clients are trying to get deals done in two or three months. Often, those transactions are strategic and you help a client grow their business.” There is also relationship-building with her clients. “Itʼs not just about the legal work,” notes Leanne. “You need to take time to invest in getting to know your clients … I am still a firm believer in talking to your clients on the phone, getting to know them.” Leanne takes the firmʼs “relationship-focused” slogan seriously and strives to develop more of a working friendship with a client “…so that you can talk about things other than legal matters all the time.” Then, there is the family-building. With the long hours involved in her business, Leanne admits this can be difficult: “You have to sacrifice a lot to put in the hours; youʼre sacrificing time away from your family.” Still, she looks for balance in her life and always manages to find time for husband Gregg Shavchook and their two young boys—a one-and-a-half-year-old and an “almost” six-year old. Being involved with her children, at some level, is vital to Leanne, who has served as “the vice-president of my sonʼs playschool for a year.” She also tries to instill good values into her children. “I just was at my sonʼs kindergarten class and they had a day in the life of various professions. I think itʼs important to pass along to children that they find [a career] that inspires them and, that whatever they do, to work hard at it. You have to have a very strong work ethic… negotiate in good faith… and certainly be honest.” Leanne is undoubtedly building her own future with Parlee McLaws LLP. “I plan to stay where Iʼm at… I love Edmonton and certainly love the firm Iʼm with and the people that I work with… Iʼm not sure you can find that everywhere.” Parlee McLaws LLP is a full-service law firm built on trust and tradition. The first office opened in Calgary in 1883; the Edmonton office opened in 1889. Among its many areas of practice, Parlee McLaws specializes in corporate and securities law, commercial real estate, commercial litigation, financial services, and intellectual property and innovation. √
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hey have high symbolic significance and hang above many beds. According to legend, Aboriginal dreamcatchers bestow pleasant dreams, good luck and lifetime harmony. Good spirit dreams pass through the centre of the hanging web and flow down the dangling feathers to the person sleeping under the dreamcatcher. Nightmares are caught in the web and disappear with the morning light. Business dreams, specifically, can go unfulfilled—lack of financing, self-confidence and/or training can be a nightmare. Now, Alberta Women for Entrepreneurs (AWE), a non-profit association, is here to mentor, support and guide women in the pursuit of their aspirations. Further to this mandate, AWE is now offering NextStep to Success, created specifically to assist Albertaʼs Aboriginal women. Marcela Mandeville, Programs and External Relations Manager, handles much of the administration and marketing for the program. “This program is an ideal way to celebrate success, to share experience and to encourage Aboriginal women to develop businesses that will positively impact communities and, ultimately, Albertaʼs economy. “In addition to providing learning and financial resources, the program will connect women with or without entrepreneurial experience and create a supportive environment to pursue viable business ventures,” she adds. AWEʼs NextStep to Success is an off-shoot of its Business Startup program. During the pilot project last year, “AWE connected with 50 Aboriginal women from across the province to share information on entrepreneurship and offer support to women who wanted to create a business. The relationships, comments, and business development activities generated during the pilot were very positive.” Marcela says session participants explored many avenues including custom-designed embroidery and promotional products, Aboriginal art and supplies, eco-friendly products, pet care as well as public speaking and/or facilitating. The NextStep to Success program is open to Aboriginal women 18 years of age or older who live in Alberta and are, or plan to be, the majority owners in a business. Ideas must be sound and the entrepreneur must show a personal commitment to success. Those fulfilling criteria will benefit from valuable services, specifically through mentoring and coaching. For example, AWE will work with Aboriginal clients to develop and help implement strong business plans, and to build a network of resources. With funding through Western Economic Diversification Canada, AWE can also offer non-traditional financing. As well, Alberta Employment and Immigration provided $250,000 toward the program for Aboriginal women entrepreneurs. “NextStep to Success offers a specific micro-loan program (up to $10,000) for Aboriginal womanowned businesses with specialized pre-and post-loan support. We also share information on other development opportunities in the Aboriginal community that would be beneficial for clients. NextStep to Success will include a business planning workshop series and mentoring circles to share knowledge and create a support network for business development among women in the community,” explains Marcela. “Even the best business idea is at risk of failing without active marketing. Therefore, visits will be planned with communities and organizations that are interested in learning more about the NextStep to Success program.” Marcela has an impressive educational background, having graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce in International Business from the University of Alberta. She has worked in research, program management, oil and gas financial analysis, and as an entrepreneur. She is fluent in English, French and Spanish. As a “proud member of the Marcela Mandeville Salt River First Nation in Fort Photo by Terry Bourque Smith, Northwest Territories,” Marcela has realized many of her dreams… and she relishes the opportunity to help her clients follow their dreams and secure their futures. √ For more details on AWEʼs programs, visit www.awebusiness.com, e-mail info@awebusiness.com, or call 1.800.713.3558.
By Rick Lauber EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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isters are like snowflakes. Each shares similar characteristics, yet each is uniquely different. So it is with three of Edmontonʼs boutique hotels and the women who manage them. The general managers overseeing operations are JoAnn Kirkland at the Matrix Hotel downtown, Jane Barrigan Jess at the Metterra Hotel and Donica Wilkie-Morrow at the Varscona Hotel, both on Whyte Avenue. The sister hotels are owned by Westcorp Properties Inc., a locally-based company that builds and manages revenue-generating properties including residential, retail, office, hospitality and mixed-use projects. This trio agrees that the road to the top in the hotel business can have interesting twists and turns. Donica began her formal hospitality career in 1987, and has worked throughout Europe including the French Alps and the Mediterranean, and across Canada. In 2004, she took on the position of Director of Catering for the Varscona and Metterra. A promotion to Operations Manager for the Varscona in 2007 led to the position of General Manager last year. JoAnn admits she has had “kind of a strange background… I worked in the education field in the Dominican Republic and always had a desire to get into the hotel business.” While sharing office space with a school counselor, she started leafing through binders of worldwide colleges and universities. A hotel school in Switzerland caught her eye and “the rest is history”. Jane wanted “to get out in the world” after a career in the printing and publishing industry. She “pursued the sales side of hotels and was bitten by the bug.” Dynamic, ambitious and proud are among the words that describe their
shared personality traits. “Iʼm a very driven hotelier. I expect a lot of my team but I also put a lot of effort into ensuring the guest experience is fantastic,” explains JoAnn. Like her colleagues, she is a firm believer in the ʻmanagement-by-walkingaround principle.ʼ “Because youʼre open 24/7,” adds Jane, “your work is never done. You always have your guests to think about and to ensure that theyʼre safe and happy.” And, there is always something to be done—“You never go, oh good, my in-basket is empty.” Donica stresses that “one of the key components to our success is our people. We have been very fortunate as GMs to employ some of the most passionate individuals in this industry… amazing, high caliber talent.” Despite a certain level of friendly competition, JoAnn points out that they even share resources. “If I have a banquet and I donʼt have enough staff, I wouldnʼt hesitate to call one of my colleagues and say, ʻCan you help me out?ʼ And they wouldnʼt hesitate to help… thereʼs a really fantastic camaraderie between our hotels.” As boutique hotels, each focuses on creating and marketing its own special individuality. According to JoAnn, “More independent companies have boutique hotels. Theyʼre not mass-produced. They have very interesting characteristics that are unlike chain hotels. Thereʼs a uniqueness in décor, design and location that differentiates boutique hotels from ʻbig boxʼ hotels.” With management decisions, Jane says, “You can make a change and turn on a dime. Youʼre not dealing with all the red tape and having to go through different procedures all the time.” Long-time Edmonton residents will remember the Matrix Hotel as the former Inn on Seventh, located on 100th Avenue at 107th Street. It was treated to an extreme make-over and reopened with 184 guest rooms and all the amenities, including a sprawling 8,500 square feet of meeting space, and a fitness centre. The Varscona, at Whyte Avenue and 106th Street, has 89 guest rooms. For conferences, it boasts 3,700 square feet of space with full catering services. The Metterra, just two blocks east on
Checking in…
Jane Barrigan Jess
By Rick Lauber
JoAnn Kirkland
Donica Wilkie-Morrow Photo by Terry Bourque
Whyte, has 98 rooms, unique meeting rooms, a business centre and fitness facilities. At all three Westcorp properties, guests are welcome to enjoy complimentary deluxe continental breakfast and evening winetasting. Additional perks include free valet parking, high-speed Internet access, satellite TV, and cozy bathrobes. “A comment we often hear from our guests at the Varscona is that the hotel instills a feeling of comfort that is like being home,” says Donica. “Weʼre all proud of the welcoming atmosphere that is provided by our dedicated team of employees.” So, much like each unique snowflake which swirls and dances to the ground, these three hotel GMs, along with their individual hotel properties, are distinctive. Together, JoAnn Kirkland, Jane Barrigan Jess and Donica Wilkie-Morrow form a strong alliance while their hotels exist as a conspicuous and comfortable corporate presence for business travelers and vacationers. √
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friendly smile… a freshly-pressed outfit… a confidant handshake. All speak volumes when creating a positive first impression. People judge you by your appearance and conduct, whether in personal or professional circles. But, these days, others can evaluate you even when you do not meet face-to-face. With the Internet, individuals and businesses are instantly available. Anybody can simply Google your name and be directed to your website. Through this incredible tool, others can learn about you and your products or services even from a distance. That website presence must be easy-to-use, engaging and professional stresses Norene Stasiewich, founder and CEO of Edmontonʼs Pivit, Inc. No spelling mistake here: “Pivit”, a play on words, promises quick turnaround time… the “i-t” refers to the Internet. “You have to adapt to change quickly, especially in our industry and our economy.” Norene and a virtual team of experts create websites. “We design, build and develop the applications, and then maintain them afterwards.” In a highly competitive field, good old-fashioned client service makes the difference, says Norene. “I think you have to listen to your clients… and you have to be there to guide and support them.” What is impressive is that she restricts herself—currently, she is working with about 12 to 15 clients – not too many to be overwhelming nor too many to provide sufficient support. Her impressive client list includes The City of Edmonton, Edmonton Tourism, Edmonton Airports, the Shaw Conference Centre and Edmonton Economic Development Corporation. Norene demonstrates a strong work ethic, honed leadership skills, enthusiastic commitment to quality work and consideration for her clientsʼ overall vision and return on investment. These are qualities the independent mother imparts to her 16-year old son, Silvan, whom she proudly describes as “smart, disciplined, and well-rounded in sports and academics.” Like many entrepreneurs, Norene always wanted to run her own business. “There came a point when I wanted to make my own decisions and when I wanted to choose how I would work with clients. I was looking for something new… and I thought, if I am not going back to the corporate world to work for someone else, then what?” Pivit didnʼt just come about overnight. “I began contracting my services in 2000; however, I didnʼt choose to incorporate until 2005.” For a first-time business venture, Pivit is purring along nicely. Norene truly demonstrates a “you-can” attitude: Nothing is impossible. She doesnʼt consider hers a solo journey. She thanks her current team of highly skilled individuals, who exceed project expectations time and time again. She also
credits her business mentors and partners for their inspiration, as well as her four sisters and extended Stasiewich family for their ongoing support. First impressions dwindle, so Norene has her 2009 plans mapped out. “Pivit will be focusing on existing work for both our primary and newly-referred clients. I am also looking to invest additional time on the next phase of development for the Connect2Edmonton website initiative.” C2E provides a platform for people who are passionate about Edmonton. With shared opinions, thoughts and concerns about our city, the C2E forum can be a vocal and interactive place. This ongoing “conversation” often leads to inspired ideas. The newly-created “Ask” forum has featured Reg Milley, president and CEO of Edmonton Airports, as well as Mayor Stephen Mandel—both have been available to answer C2E membersʼ questions. “The C2E site currently has just over 5,200 members, nearly 175,000 posts and is visited by over 30 countries. We would like to see our membership double by 2010. And, with the upcoming planned website enhancements, we think this is possible.” Noreneʼs drive, persistence, passion and superb client-service skills, provide an excellent package. Step forward boldly… create and maintain that admirable first and lasting impression. √
By Rick Lauber
Norene Stasiewich Photo by Terry Bourque
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elissa Dunkley has no problems with being “tough”—itʼs how she brings out the best in others. Melissa was only 23 when she started her first company with her husband Blair. They are also the inspiration behind Results Now Inc. which provides professional corporate coaching and training services. “Weʼre a company that goes in and
presents corporate alternatives to people issues… identifying their points of pain in their management skills, corporate culture, evolution or deployment,” she explains. “Results Now deals with the people performance issues at the behavioral level which deals with root causes. Weʼre behavior scientists—we know what people need in place for them to want change in their behaviors.” Melissaʼs professional training focuses on “leadership and sales, primarily.” Training programs are available for small, medium and large enterprises and “can be delivered through an individualʼs request or an initiative with human resources where they are trying to do leadership competency development, succession planning or increased performance from employee performance reviews,” Melissa continues. Results Now can also assist with “re-engineering the corporate culture.” Over the course of the past 11 years, Melissaʼs company has performed much good for many impressive clients: including J. Angus Watt of National Bank Financial, Bruce Clark of CCI Industries, Don Kasian of Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning and Dr. Larry Ohlhauser, former head of the Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons, now author of The Healthy CEO and a member Edmontoniansʼ Transformers.
experiences that truly make us leaders.” Melissa is described by her colleagues as a leader who believes in the fundamental core of people and their ability to change behaviors when given support, skills and the opportunity to grow and rise to be at their best. “After spending any time with Melissa, whether it is for a brief moment or whether you are one who considers her a mentor and a friend, your life is never the same—forever changed by her passion and purpose, which leaves you prepared to move to uncharted territory with self-confidence and clarity,” says colleague and friend Sandra Hojjati. Melissa achieved her Master Level of Coaching through Edmontonʼs Life Skills College, after 1500 hours in class, two years internship and 30,000 hours facilitating training programs across Canada. “Change can happen in a single moment. A lot of people actually think you can change tomorrow; however, this is not possible. Tomorrow is actually created by the decisions you make today.” And change still lies ahead for Melissa and Results Now. “Iʼm growing my business to be the place where professional coaches and corporations can come to… to tap into manuals, books, training programs and facilities where they can refresh themselves, review skill sets and update themselves on the leading edge within the marketplace.
Changing Behaviours... By Rick Lauber
Melissa Dunkley Photo by Murray Sieleski
One client at a time
Ironically, it hasnʼt been all good for Melissa herself. “I wasnʼt born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I actually had a rough childhood… up until 16, I was in seven foster homes and, after that, I finally found a wonderful family who adopted me. I went on to get married just out of college. Two years later, I was widowed. “Right now, Iʼm battling cancer. Iʼm planning on surviving this… and not being defined by this illness.” Instead, Melissa puts a positive spin on her diagnosis to inspire and encourage others. In fact, sheʼs an aspiring competitor in dressage who works withi Olympic level trainers. “As a mother, partner and coach trainer, Iʼm always looking for ways in which to role model to people. We have all had challenges in our lives, but it is how we rise above them and are enriched by those
According to Melissa, co-president, we are “developing the product line of our company… weʼre redoing our website to accommodate the books weʼre writing and video products, allowing people to tap into our researched technologies. I want Results Now, in the future, to be more accessible.” Melissa is a master of change, both on the personal and professional level. So often, society views change— whether through job loss, family moves or deaths—as negative. “Itʼs easy enough to allow ourselves to hit a brick wall. The challenge is to take this “bad news” and use it for future “good”. While uncomfortable, achieving this mindset is possible; it just sometimes needs a “tough coach” like Melissa to build on the shoulders of clientʼs positive intentions and realize them through concrete skills for effective change. √ For further information, please visit www.resultsnowinc.com. To book a complimentary assessment session, call us at 780.459.2770.
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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Photo by Terry Bourque
ON FLOOR (left to right) Robyn Meara Monique Petrin Nicholson Tanis Jalbert Dale Weston Analea Wayne Connie Taylor Charma Stang (sitting)
ON STAIRS (Top to bottom) Teresa Meadows Caroline Cooper Wendi Crowe Maria Chau Lauren Toreson Dragana Sanchez Glowicki Sandra Hawes Fiona Fjeldheim Jessica Buckwold Debra Curcio Lister
The Women of Miller Thomson LLP
increased the speed at which administrative tasks, correspondence and basic research can be performed. However, while this has created, in some members of the profession and the public, an expectation that everything should be done faster, I ultimately donʼt think the ʻe-ageʼ has changed the steps and the time required for thoughtful legal analysis.” Indeed, taking time for legal analysis is particularly important given that lawyers must keep current with laws and regulations that change to address emerging local and global priorities and concerns. “As an environmental lawyer, this is a big issue,” says Teresa Meadows. “I teach courses, write articles, contribute to texts, and attend seminars on emerging topics. However, clients are not simply looking for a general overview of what new frameworks say: They are looking for synthesis and analysis regarding what it all means. Business associations, sector/industry newsletters and discussions with my clients help me complete the picture by staying up-to-date on changes in industry and business drivers that influence the client-specific risks and opportunities created by new legislation.” According to partner Wendi Crowe, “Staying on top of tax law can be a challenge. New caselaw, administrative policies and budgets mean lots of reading. Tax legislation is often retroactive… so itʼs important to read government press releases and commentary to help clients plan for upcoming amendments. Our national tax group divides new material for review. I also attend tax discussion groups to share ideas and stay current.” Associate Dragana Sanchez Glowicki, whose practice centres on wills, estates and dependent adults, says that “these areas have undergone extensive legislative changes in the past seven years. I find the best way for me to keep current is by being continuously involved with the various organizations responsible for making the changes. I also read extensively, write and present at conferences for the Legal Education Society of Alberta, the Canadian Bar Association, the Society for Estates and Trust Practitioners, as well as local organizations such as the Edmonton Estate Planning Council.” The world financial crisis also affects the legal profession and the kind of advice that is offered to clients. Associate Lauren Toreson specializes in solicitor contracts and corporate work. She indicates that “as my clients adapt their businesses to navigate the economic downturn, my practice has become more focused on assisting them in achieving the same in a cost-effective manner, whether it be by providing advice on financial re-organization or drafting contracts that incorporate the necessary flexibility to deal with these unstable economic times.” Litigator Monique Petrin Nicholson, another associate, adds, “New dynamics have arisen in relation to the shareholder dispute aspect of my commercial litigation practice.
Different considerations applied in a rising market, when the value of businesses was often increasing. Now that values are falling in many sectors, weʼre seeing different dynamics at play in litigation between shareholders and, therefore, different approaches to protecting our clientsʼ interests.” Established in 1957, Miller Thomson LLP is a full service national law firm—the ninth largest in Canada—with offices in four provinces, employing more than 430 lawyers. As such, it offers tremendous opportunities to its lawyers in all aspects of the practice of law. The lawyers at Miller Thomson practice in a variety of areas of law and handle situations for a variety of clients. Student-at-law Robyn Meara says, “There are always new challenges and every day is different. Another thing I really like about being a lawyer at Miller Thomson is the camaraderie within the profession and the firm. People are always willing to answer questions and point you in the right direction.” Caroline Cooper agrees that she enjoys being a lawyer “because it provides a forum where I can use problem solving and analytical skills. These skills have been especially useful in developing a successful corporate commercial and business law practice.” Connie Taylor is a partner who has a long history with the firm, having articled there in 1985. She explains, “I handle claims for people who are injured and that gives me an opportunity to learn about and understand the clientʼs situation… to help them to get fair compensation for what has happened; however, it is the relationship with the client that I treasure most about my job and that gives me the greatest joy and satisfaction.” “People often only come to lawyers during difficult times in their lives or with their businesses,” suggests Fiona Fjeldheim, an associate. “As a lawyer practicing in commercial litigation, I understand the importance of working with my clients to resolve their legal issues and help them with their business or personal challenges.” Partner Sandra Hawes says, “As a litigation lawyer, each of my files presents an array of interesting facts, making my job challenging and varied. Depending on the file, I can learn, for example, what it is to be an electrical engineer, a contractor, a firefighter or a medical examiner without having to become one.” Associate Analea Wayne, the incoming president of the Canadian Bar AssociationAlberta Branch, concludes: “Thereʼs obviously the gratification of doing something altruistic on a daily basis, whether itʼs helping someone with a house deal or making sure someone gets costs for future medical care if theyʼve been severely injured. For me, the bigger picture lies with my pride in belonging to a great profession, being a part of promoting access to justice, and working alongside like-minded people. √
Miller Thomson LLP
ll of us face the dilemma of balancing our personal and professional lives. There is no magic formula… no set rules. What works for one person may not for another. “I measure balance on a quarterly, rather than a daily, weekly or monthly basis,” says Debra Curcio Lister, a partner at Miller Thomson LLP. “At times, my personal life takes precedence over my professional life and vice versa. If, overall, a balance is achieved, I would attribute that balance entirely to organization and flexibility.” Two associates with the firm would agree. According to Tanis Jalbert, “…time management and organization are a must from both a personal and professional standpoint. My practice area, being wills and estates, has allowed me to work part time, which goes a long way to balance my personal and professional life.” Dale Weston admits that no matter how busy she is at work, she makes “time for aspects of my personal life that are important to me. I do this by setting priorities and making plans that I can stick to. It helps that I work at a firm that encourages me to have a balanced lifestyle.” The fact that Miller Thomson provides the Womenʼs Leadership Initiative to its employees is a reflection of the value it places on its female lawyers and of the need to take a proactive approach to addressing their particular circumstances, such as maternity leave and other family obligations. Assistance is offered to absent female professionals to manage and maintain their practices, delegate to others and provide services to their clients. Technology helps in the delivery of service to the client. Whether at the office, at home or away, the e-age has had a tremendous impact on the ability of lawyers to keep current and stay in touch with colleagues and clients. While the Internet aids in the flow of information, it also presents new challenges to the profession. Charma Stang points out that “as businesses have become more techno-savvy, access to information and data has exploded. Ever increasingly, I am finding that our clients require advice as they manage their IT solutions and deal with accompanying privacy and confidentiality issues. Our use of the most current IT available has allowed us to provide responsive advice in these fast moving and ever changing times.” Associate Jessica Buckwold concurs, “It allows me to communicate more effectively with my clients; we are not tied to our office phone or fax lines anymore. In my labour and employment practice, Iʼm noticing that companies are trying to navigate workplace challenges raised by the Web 2.0 phenomena, like blogging and social networking sites. Itʼs an evolving area of the law, which makes for an interesting practice.” Maria Chau, an articling student, adds, “The Internet and electronic resources have
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By Barb Deters
The Women of
By Rick Lauber
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or two Edmonton women, life is not only like hockey, life is hockey. Steffany Hanlen and Vanessa Hettinger operate Quantum Speed High Performance Skating Systems, a division of Hanlen Consulting, established in 1980. “Quantum Speed is an on-ice developmental process for high-end athletes that allows them to take their personal skills at skating and their mental performance to a whole other level,” explains Steffany, owner and founder. With expert coaching and practice, they become stronger, faster and better players. Steffany and Vanessa, the general manager and master instructor, work with both amateur and professional players, aged six to 24. The improvement process starts with an assessment and continues to a complete skating evaluation… keeping emotional, intellectual and physical considerations in-mind. At the end of each session, players show incredible improvement, much to the immense satisfaction of Steffany and Vanessa—and, often, to the amazement of the players, parents and coaches. They even work with pro players in the National Hockey League, many at the top of their game. There is an expectation that “high-end athletes of all ages are already confident and may have gotten to a certain level or skill set, but it gets normalized,” says Steffany. Injuries, being traded or a losing season “can just kick the guyʼs confidence.” Vanessa adds, “Every so often, every player is a rookie again and thatʼs very hard on a personʼs self-esteem. When we see them in the off-season, we recognize that. We have players come back in their fifth or sixth year and say ʻI had a terrible season… Iʼm so glad to be back working on my skills again.ʼ They realize they are dealing with human beings. “We treat athletes with the highest level of respect and awareness as people first and athletes second,” notes Steffany. There is no “cookie-cutter” approach to the training, continues Vanessa, “We look at each player as an individual.” Strengths and weaknesses are assessed and a plan for improvement is drawn up. In hockey, a team has to work together to win the game. Quantum Speed is definitely on the same page. “Hockey is highly competitive, but weʼre very supportive in what we can do for each other,” says Steffany. Vanessa agrees. “We work very well as a team and focus on different aspects of our expertise and the playersʼ needs.” It is this approach that has become their working mandate: “Our business is based on the team philosophy that individuals will get better when they are trained by a team.” Each works in her respective role while respecting and supporting the other. They believe in each other and each otherʼs dreams… allowing enough freedom to pursue personal and professional goals. Steffany wants to continue her work in the public eye as an author, inspirational speaker and a member of Edmontonians Transformers. Vanessa is eyeing a future as a skating coach in the NHL. Since Quantum Speed started in 2002, things have gotten easier—but it hasnʼt always been smooth skating, so to speak. Part of the problem was that there is no educational degree to help open the door. While Steffany worked as an Olympic and world-class performance coach as well as a skating coach for the Edmonton Oilers and St. Louis Blues, she relied more on street smarts—or what she jokingly refers to as “the Bachelor of S-H” (SH, in this respect, stands for Steffany Hanlen). Vanessa, the younger of the two, is busily building her credibility through results-based performance. Her career path isnʼt in sync with her education—she boasts a BA in political science and economics with a certificate in globalization and governance. No doubt, her participation on the Pandas womenʼs hockey team, while studying at the University of Alberta, influenced her change in direction. Despite occasional bumps, bruises and body checks Steffany and Vanessa are enjoying life on the ice. And, Quantum Speed is stickhandling its way to success. √
Vanessa Hettinger and Steffany Hanlen Photos by Terry Bourque
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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Follow the gameInvest plan: with purpose By Rick Lauber
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“
Gail Taylor Photo by Terry Bourque
etʼs continue with running the ball…” Should the score be lopsided at halftime, many football coaches will steadfastly swear by the original game plan. Our worldʼs current economic recession can be likened to such a gridiron battle. Although bleak financial forecasts exist, Gail A. Taylor, CIMA, Vice-President and Investment Advisor, with The Gail Taylor Investment Group at CIBC Wood Gundy, points out that recessions have occurred regularly, and “we were due.” Gail reminds us that, historically, recessions last between 12 and 18 months and there will be a recovery. Parting with money now, rather than hoarding it under your mattress, may seem frightening; however, Gail urges her clients to stay the course with their investments. “Stick to your financial plan,” she advises. Gail has a game plan in mind. Although this is one of her “best years” ever, she strives for more. “I want to grow the practice. Iʼd like to manage more assets than I do right now.” Currently, she works with 150 individual and corporate
Marathoner Ga il with trainer Jessica Zapata of Infinite Fitn ess
clients, a discerning group with many holding “between $500,000 and $5 million” in assets. A rarity in the maledominated field of investments, Gail has the smarts and gumption to excel. Her work days fly by and husband Harold, who “often makes a wonderful supper for us,” sometimes has to provide a loving prod. “Many nights, he has to call me to tell me itʼs time to come home because I lose track of time!” Heʼs one of the lucky few that can get away with telling Gail what to do. A self-admitted “very entrepreneurial ʻType Aʼ personality,” Gail knows what she wants and tackles new challenges with fervor. As she approached her 50th birthday in 2005, she decided to run the grueling 26-mile New York City Marathon. Despite having “never been a long-distance runner,” she doggedly stuck to her guns, crossed the finish line, and raised $20,000 for the Mexican group, Children of the Dump. “It was just about doing it… it was the most exciting experience.” Will she repeat? “Never!” she laughs. She has since replaced her running shoes with a remote control for the Wii Fit program. Another less physically-exerting marathon lies ahead. “I just recently got accepted at Queenʼs University in Kingston, Ontario,” she smiles. “Iʼm going to start in the fall and work full-time and do my Executive MBA at the same time.” Gail expects the 15-month program will mean about “20 hours per week for studying.” As she dons her reading glasses to hit the books, one wonders if she views the world through rose-coloured glasses. “I really think that I can make the world a better place. My passion is eradicating extreme poverty. I donʼt understand how we could have a world with as much abundance as we have and have 800 million people in starvation.” Is this naïve? Gail doesnʼt think so. Thanks to her office team—Doreen Breitkreuz, Alicja Krzymien, and Laurie Booth— who significantly ease her office workload, Gail can better pursue her passion through community involvement. To date, she has served on numerous boards including HealthBridge International, the University Hospital Foundation, Mental Health Foundation – Capital Region, and the Riverview Rotary Club. “I believe in helping the local community and not just the global one,” she explains. So, what the scoreboard reads at halftime is irrelevant. Return to the locker room to determine how much more you have to give to win. Gailʼs game plan covers all the plays whether your goals are socially responsible investments, charitable giving and/or succession planning: Create your financial plan and follow it. √ Gail Taylor is an Investment Advisor with CIBC Wood Gundy in Edmonton. The views of Gail Taylor do not necessarily reflect those of CIBC World Markets Inc. CIBC Wood Gundy is a division of CIBC World Markets Inc., a subsidiary of CIBC and Member CIPF.
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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Sometimes… clothes do make the Difference By Marg. Pullishy
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t’s a hand up, not a hand out. Just ask 38 year old Cherie, a single mother of three whose world hit the skids when the word ‘recession’ was still the ‘R’ word nobody was quite prepared to utter aloud. “I got laid off in January,” Cherie explains. “I mostly worked in labour jobs up until then, and then I thought maybe I should try something else.” Rather than allowing the job lay-off to bring her life to a standstill, she saw it as an opportunity to move forward, perhaps undertake some retraining and follow her dream of working with troubled youth. After exploring some of the available alternatives through Employment Insurance and the Boyle Street Coop employment programs, and whipping her resume into shape, Cherie quickly realized that she had to reinvent herself to a certain extent. New clothes. A new look. A new attitude. All pretty challenging to achieve when your major focus is survival and finding work. It is overwhelming and disheartening. Enter Suit Yourself, a not-for-profit organization whose sole function is to reach out to women like Cherie, to give them a little retail therapy without the financial consequences, when they need and want to make fresh starts in their lives. The organization, established in 2001, was the brain child of Karmen Masson, a legal professional who says, “I was looking for an opportunity to give back to the community, looking for positives, for ways to create good karma for others.” Her concept was simple: Get working Edmonton women to donate their still fashionable office/workappropriate clothing, shoes, accessories, jewelry and even toiletries to Suit Yourself. The goods would then be provided free to women who needed just a little extra boost entering or re-entering the workplace. With the help of her mother, sister and brother-in-law, Masson got the word out. The clothing and a roster of volunteers willing to consult and help the clients with their selections came pouring in. Today, more than 800 clients later, Suit Yourself is housed in the heart of St. Basil’s School. The former classroom closely resembles a 700 square-foot walk-in closet, with racks of clothing, sorted by size (from two to the high 20s), a couple of change rooms carved out of a small corner, mirrors, and all the other paraphernalia required to make the experience fun for both client and volunteer consultant. The volunteers have absolutely no professional training in the field of fashion, but common sense, combined with good taste and an impressive selection of clothing, makes the job fun for everyone. “To tell you the truth, I never needed to dress up for the kind of work I did, so I really didn’t know very much about clothes, like what’s in style, what suited me, what colours look good with my skin tones, and that kind of stuff,” Cherie admits. “I really didn’t know what to expect when I went there, but the woman who helped me find my clothes sure knew a lot more about fashion than I do. She was a big help, and I felt so good when we were finished. I still do.”
Cherie left with three complete outfits, and virtually everything she needed to get herself started. Though she has not yet found new employment, she’s optimistic and more confident—intangible benefits that came with the garments she selected at Suit Yourself. “I think now, I look at myself in a different way. I’m more positive about myself, my outlook is better and I feel more confident when I go for interviews.” Women are referred to the program through a variety of pre-employment training and employment placement programs in the community. For Masson, who has two small children, a full time job and teaches business law part time at a technical school, her night job is volunteering. “If I ever need reminding of the purpose of this very necessary service, I think about the many times I’ve been involved in matching an outfit to a recipient and, at the end of the fitting, the client invariably gives you a big hug and says, ‘This feels just like Christmas.’ Suit Yourself gives them one less thing to worry about.’” Remember the pants that would be perfect if you just dropped another five pounds? The shoes that hurt your bunions? The silk shirt your spiteful sister-in-law gave you because she knows the color washes you out? Time to put them to good use. Masson will do the April 2nd luncheon presentation at the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Conference at the River Cree Casino from April 1st to 3rd. Registrants are asked to bring clothing for donation to Suit Yourself. All clothing should be clean, on hangers and in ready-to-wear condition. If you are not attending the conference but have garments you would like to recycle, contact Suit Yourself at 780.488.9930, or check out the web site (www.suityourselfclothes.org) for more information. √
Karmen Masson Photos by Terry Bourque
Have your say online at edmontoniansvisionaries.wordpress.com EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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THAT WAS THE APRIL THAT WAS
2006 Cindy Benson [Miss Edmonton 1981-82 and partner in Leonard and Associates photography] says women “by and large have a terrible time in business with credibility with men.” Cindy’s advice for young women going into business today: “Not to expect too much too fast and be prepared to work like a dog.” ~ Dick MacLean Dossier/Time Out 1990
Dancer/choreographer Indrea Rabmovich says, “…hybrids spring from the urgency with which artists need to make their statements to the world. If that means mixing art forms together—so be it.” ~ Fred Keating Arts & Entertainment 1994 “If I see or utter the word ‘empowered’ one more time, I’m going to throw up.” ~ Tom Peters’ farewell column 1995 “Best printable joke heard at the World Figure Skating Championships: What do you call a woman who works as hard as a man? Lazy.” ~ Barb Deters Hot Flashes 1996
“It doesn’t seem that long ago that sports editors would fight to keep figure skating (fancy skating) off the sports pages… Any selfrespecting sports ed would banish such stories to women’s pages along with the recipes, patterns, gossip-mongers, et al…” ~ Don Fleming Mink & Manure Set 1991
“…the job demands such a large part of your life… I would love to be married and have a little of the security that comes along with that lifestyle. But, this is not an advertisement calling on all eligible single men,” says Kate Ashton, general manager of The Westin. ~ Robert Simpson Faces 1997
Body Shop founder Anita Roddick states: “The world of retailing taught me nothing. Huge corporations (are) dying of boredom caused by the inertia of giantism… “All the big companies seem to be led by accountants and lawyers and become moribund carbon-copy versions of each other.” ~ Tom Peters On Excellence 1992
“One of the funniest exchanges [at the Annual Premier’s Dinner] was between lawyer Gary Scuir and Shirley Schlotter as they tried to figure out where they had previously met. Having explored numerous possibilities to no avail, Gary finally asked, ‘Did I ever sue you?’” ~ Barb Deters Hot Flashes 1998
“Prima donnas on the podium… Will Edmonton’s next symphony conductor be a woman??? “The combined credentials of the nine [candidates] are pretty dazzling, and the two women, Maria Alsop and JoAnn Falletto, are among the most interesting.” ~ John Charles Arts Beat 1993
“April 27: Reach for the stars at the Unique Lives & Experiences lecture series tonight at the Winspear. Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada’s first woman in space, will prove what women already know: the so-called ‘fair sex’ aren’t the space cadets some men would like us to be.” ~ Eva Marie Clark Calendar Cogitations 1999
“Picking a winner for this year’s Winter Whiner contest has been difficult… The award goes to [CFRN’s news group] for their consistently shrill, simpering weather whine, and for the oh, so pixy shudder Shawna Randolph gives whenever the temperatures threaten to drop. You can count on CFRN to terrorize the public into winter hibernation. Not only is their weather information negative, it’s hurtful to our city.” ~ Ken Karpoff Business of Sport 2000 “Sandra Woitas, principal of Norwood Elementary School and a formidable advocate of inner city children, took steady aim at a collection of business and government executives gathered at the Mayfair Golf & Country Club last month… Woitas fired a volley at the assembled crowd. ‘If you can take an hour-and-a-half out of your day to attend this luncheon, you’ve got the time to be a mentor.’ Touché.” ~ Muggsy Forbes Funny, Pompous & Unfair 2001
Lieutenant-Governor Lois Hole on Women of Vision recipient Harriet Winspear: “She’s one of a kind… the crown jewel,” she says of the centurion, “…who likes to make things happen.” Mrs. Winspear, in her usual sharpwitted and self-deprecating style of humour, commented on the arts: “I don’t play a thing. I donate money.” ~ Social Studies Women of Vision 2004 Karen MacKenzie, the new director of the faculty of management, University of Lethbridge Edmonton campus “…wants to extend the Bachelor of Management in First Nations Governance program. ‘We have may qualified Aboriginal students. This program is attracting students who want to make a difference in their communities.’” ~ Cheryl Croucher BizIntel 2005
“…Edmonton Variety Shows, started by Marie Wilce… gave guys like Bob Goulet his start. Senator Tommy Banks started playing in the pit at the tender age of 15. He couldn’t even 2007 read music, says he still can’t.” ~ Muggsy Forbes Funny, Pompous & Unfair 2002 “You have to wonder ‘does the hip mom beget chic children?’ How much does she sway her kids from trendy to develop their own classic style?” ~ DK Parker Styling in the City 2003
2008
EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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17
The Business
Alpha Course
of Love With Ryan Jespersen
Kari Skelton, and I attended our first “Alpha” marriage preparation course at the Royal Glenora. Friday nights there mimic a high school hallway when classes get out: Hundreds of people on site for many different events, mingling and morphing into an obstacle course for the dozens of servers bustling between rooms. As our Alpha group sat and discussed the components of a strong marriage, I couldn’t help but find a metaphor as I watched entrée after entrée leave the busy kitchen. Everything Kari and I learned in the months leading up to our March 22nd
Club Royal Glenora
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egendary playwright Oscar Wilde said it best: “I have the simplest tastes. I am always satisfied with the best.” Within modern-day wedding circles, that’s the bridal mantra. Smart men learn in a hurry—It’s her day, she only gets to celebrate it once, and it better not fall short of the perfect plan she’s devised in her mind since she was old enough to dream. The Royal Glenora Club’s Faouzi Ibrahim knows that mindset well. “We understand (the bride’s) philosophy,” the veteran food and beverage manager tells me. “Since she was a girl, she’s been watching the Cinderella movie with the man on the white horse. She only gets married once.” I first met Faouzi when my fiancée, Capital FM’s
wedding suggested a successful long-term relationship will be built on priorities, passion and communication. Without the same approach to hospitality, venues like the Royal Glenora would be sunk. I can only imagine the impact of a major gaffe with reputation and return business at stake. “Most importantly, we know our clients will evaluate us on [whether] they got what we promised them,” says Faouzi.
Though weddings account for just 15 percent of total food and beverage business at the Royal Glenora, promises made to brides matter most. “We want every bride to feel like an absolute winner,” Faouzi tells me. That winning feeling takes extra effort, says catering manager Christina Parks. “There’s a lot more hand holding with weddings. As compared to Rotary clubs or corporate clients, brides and grooms are way, way, way more high maintenance.” I didn’t need our afore-mentioned marriage prep class to know the phrase “refined tastes” works better than “high maintenance” in a wedding context, but I keep my thoughts to myself. Having just emerged from close to a year’s worth of wedding planning myself, I understand exactly what Christina is getting at. She tells me it’s not unusual to take five, sometimes 10 phone calls a day from anxious brides. Many couples swing by the club multiple times as other weddings are being set up, to take notes on what works and what doesn’t. The downtown Edmonton club can mirror a Moroccan carpet bazaar as couples barter for the lowest possible price at every turn. “Brides and grooms want the best for the cheapest,” smiles Faouzi. “I’ve seen it a million times.” There it is again—a simple, uncompromising pursuit of the perfect experience. Sounds like the type of life Kari and I are shooting for... call it our version of doing the Wilde thing. √ Next month: The Costa Rican Wedding Album Ryan Jespersen hosts Breakfast Television weekday mornings from 6-10 am on Citytv. E-mail Ryan at rjespersen@edmontonians.com
Continued from page 3
LYNDA STEELE
SHANNON TYLER –
– Global Edmonton Hometown: Proud to say, I was born in Edmonton at the Royal Alexandra Hospital… but grew up in Hinton, inhaling the daily smell of money. Years here: about 30 altogether Hobbies/distractions: Eating out, working out, reading, traveling, shopping, soaking up the splendor of Canmore, cheering for the Oilers. Best part of being a media celebrity: People feel like they know you, so they often skip the small talk, and leap to really important and deep personal conversations in the checkout line. It’s a privilege to be thought of as a “friend” to strangers. Worst part of your job: Constant scrutiny. If I had a loonie for every bit of unsolicited hair and makeup advice… Advice for up-and-coming female broadcasters: Be pro-active. Do your own homework, and seek out advice from media people you admire. Make yourself stand out… do the extra things that make you get noticed. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. And, there’s no such thing as a stupid question—don’t be afraid to ask. Favourite restaurant: I have many—too many to mention—like Piccolinos, Pazzo Pazzo, Il Forno, Café DeVille, Allegro West, Sofra, Sabor Divino… and the list goes on. Edmonton has a million great restaurants. Other women you look up to: Lorraine Mansbridge, Jan Reimer, Dr. Ruth Collins-Nakai, Marjorie Bencz, Iris Evans, Linda Duncan, all the women’s shelter directors, Lori-Anne Munzer… again the list could go on and on. There are a lot of impressive women in Edmonton who I admire.
Magic 99 Mornings Hometown: I grew up in Fort Saskatchewan Years here: 17 years. Hobbies/distractions: I sing with the funk band The Retrofitz and often front smaller jazz ensembles. Plus my husband, Jesse Lipscombe, and I own a personal training company called P.H.A.T. Training (www.getphatnow.com)... and most importantly I’m mother to a one-year old boy named Chile... and I must say, he is the finest wee man around. Best part of being a media celebrity: Having talented friends who insist on taking good care of me. Judy Normandeau at The Urban Body Clinic and Alex Russo of Russo Innovative Hair. That is without a doubt the best part—thank goodness for them. Worst part of your job: The worst part of my job is hearing the alarm go off before 4am... and missing those happy morning hours with my son and husband. Advice for up-and-coming female broadcasters: Cultivate thicker skin, and resiliency. Do as much as you can and learn as much as they’ll teach you. It’s a fascinating business... but most importantly, it’s a fun business. Favourite restaurant: Oooh, I have a couple: that new place on the Boardwalk downtown called Sabor Divino. It’s divine. Also a place called Lan’s Asian Grill near NAIT... it has the best Pad Thai and salad rolls in town. Other woman you look up to: I really look up to my mother-in-law actually. Her name is Monica Lipscombe and she is a Doula (birth coach). She runs a company called Doula Connections (www.doulaconnections.com). She is a fearless, generous and kind soul. In fact, all the
woman in that family are remarkable. My grandmotherin-law, Marianne Miles is 80 years old and is still a practicing psychologist. I am honoured to be a part of a family of such strong women.
MELISSA WRIGHT – K-97 Hometown: Born and raised in Edmonton… lived down east, down south and downtown, but am a prairie girl at heart. Hobbies/distractions: Love to see live music, read great books and walk my fat Pug Nubbin. I just learned how to cook(?) as I am recently engaged and realize that guys really do dig that. Best part of your job? I honestly love the music we play, and honestly love to torture the listeners who call in. I guess guys dig lippy, sarcastic women… Advice for up-and-coming female broadcasters: This would be good advice really for many branches of life: Get it in writing. Favourite restaurant: A tough one...so many good ones to pick. Will it get me a free meal? But, really, nothing beats my Grandma’s kitchen... Other women you look up to: In all honesty… all of the women included in this article. It’s no joke that it is still tougher (for us) than our male counterparts in this industry. To have such a rich talented bunch of females in Edmonton is another of example of why we are still considered the City of Champions. I am in incredible company indeed. √ Marty Forbes is the recently retired VP and general manager of The Bear, EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio. Contact marty@edmontonians.com EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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The real Kim Kerr By Greg Gazin
Prospering in a virtual world
communications marketer for Edmontonians signature editions—especially Visionaries in Science, Technology and Medicine, Women in Business, Transformers, Doors Open— Spaces, Places and Architecture of Edmonton, Sizzling Twenty under 30, Social Calendar and others reflecting the personality of business of Greater Edmonton. “We became involved with Kim because social media strategies and applications represent the future of publishing. Media in Canada are changing before our eyes and Edmontonians plans to emerge from that transformation strong and vital. We intend to be a dynamic media player based in Alberta’s capital city.” Among Kerr’s initiatives are creating communities in cyber space for the magazine’s signature initiatives. Her world revolves around establishing brand presence on-line and developing relationships around the world through methods that include Facebook, LinkedIn, blogs, and Twitter for now and then creating cross links with fans and followers. “It’s astonishing how quickly these communities have attracted conversations,” says Maclean. “It’s possible to reach many more readers online than we ever could in print.”
Photo by Terry Bourque
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ust look at Kim Kerr’s LinkedIn profile—a social media networking site for business professionals—to see her accomplishments, paying attention to the dates. It appears she’s been able to be in many places all at the same time. And while I didn’t notice any connections to Captain Kirk, Scotty or the Starship Enterprise, a closer look at her CV does reveal references to transporters, avatars and virtual reality business. For Kerr, as co-founder and director of marketing and sales for VR Technologies Inc., being omnipresent is closer to the truth than you think. VRtech’s goal is to commercialize advanced visualization and networking technology. It was created in 2008 by Kerr and Perry Kinkaide, president of Kinkaide Enterprises Inc., as a spin-off of TRLabs, Canada’s largest information and communications technology R&D consortium. To explain: Teleconferencing allows us to interact with others who are elsewhere. Tele-presence allows us to create an environment where your brain tells you that you are really somewhere else and part of it… like the sudden sense of vertigo while watching an Imax movie or going “Back to the Future” in the DeLorean at Universal Studios. What’s lacking in tele-presence is having the full experience of being separated from your existing background in real-time, and being inserted into a 3-D environment with all your senses (except for touch and smell) believing you are there. This is what VRtech is all about—tele-immersion, the “transporter” equivalent of networking. By combining augmented reality—real real world and computer-generated data—with tele-presence, VRtech has created a technology that allows users to be immersed or “teleported” into any virtual environment. “It’s like blending video conference and virtual reality,” explains Kerr. Or, as Kinkaide, who is also president of the Alberta Council of Technologies and a director of several private/public companies, calls it, “Real faces in virtual places.” Kerr says, “I can put 20 people in my living room or on the beach. We can turn our heads and look at each other in
full 3D, not just a flat image… or have the camera on the beach and make it look like I’m in the office or on the moon.” She intimates the real opportunities to commercialize advanced visualization and networking technology can be as diverse as our imaginations in areas like performing remote surgery, repairing underground cable, saving travel costs, and reducing our carbon footprint. Kerr is excited about the prospects of their technology— traditionally the domain of big business—being affordable for medium-sized enterprise and eventually small businesses. But even more so, “Our goal at VRtech is to put our fair city at the top of the global map when it comes to this technology.” She’s got a soft spot for Edmonton and wants to give back… to help get the city to the next level when it comes to science and technology… to help create global awareness of other organizations and individuals. She’s also involved as the volunteer marketer for ABCTech. That’s also why she’s teamed up with publisher Sharon MacLean and will be in charge of business development for Edmontonians, now in its 20th year of publication. MacLean sees Kerr as a visionary. “Kim is applying her experience as a tech entrepreneur and skills as a
PERHAPS, IT WAS KARMA Kerr was born and raised in Edmonton. As a pre-teen, she’d watch her Dad, an engineer, working at a drafting table. Fascinated, she thought she was destined to follow in his footsteps, and pursue a career in public service. So how did this woman take herself on a different trajectory and end up in the realm of virtual worlds? “Initially, technology was not even in the cards,” says Kerr. “It was a matter of necessity. Being a single mother of three, I couldn’t make ends meet with the job I had.” After leaving her government position, she took a series of jobs, each time for more money, because “I had three mouths to feed.” Perhaps it was karma… or the planets were aligned… or the sci-fi movies she loved to watch with her dad. Little did she know that necessity would lead to a passion and a new orbit. Continued on page 22
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Fun & flexibility for women in science
By Cheryl Croucher
I
Margaret-Ann Armour
BRIEFS
f you can’t find Margaret-Ann Armour in her office at the University of Alberta, you might very well find her in a school classroom surrounded by kids. Take March 13th as an example. That’s when she spent the day at Windsor Park School showing grade three and grade five students how to make nylon. “One of the great joys of my life has been going out to schools and having fun with chemistry. That means I can take all sorts of colourful demonstrations that I can get the children involved in as well. They get quite excited when, out of a beaker, you can pull a thread of nylon.” Even I learned a thing or two listening to this amazing professor explain the chemical reaction that produces polymerization. “We talk about the fact that nylon is made from two small molecules. And these two small molecules are in some way like people. They’ve got two arms. That means they can
all join up together in a long line. And, of course, I always have the children join up. Nylon in chemical terms is called a polymer. And that just means that it is ‘many molecules’. We have such fun. I tell the children when they are all joined up with their hands that now they are ‘poly-people’. They remember that and so they’ve got the idea of the many molecules and this long chain which is why you get a thread of nylon.” Aside from her love of chemistry and of teaching, Dr. Armour understands completely that if we want to encourage more young people to go into the sciences, then we have to get them excited about it first and foremost. It’s vital to help students see the applications of science, the relevance to their lives, rather than boring them first with theory. It’s a principle that underlies Margaret-Ann Armour’s second passion in life: encouraging young women to become scientists. Aside from her academic career where she became an expert in the chemistry of hazardous waste disposal, Dr. Armour is probably best known for her work over the last 25 years with WISEST—Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology. It was actually the brainchild of Dr. Gordon Caplan, a former VP Research at the University of Alberta. He enlisted Dr. Armour, then a professor of chemistry, as one of the founding members of this group. He tasked
Richard Gibson
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Wade Chute ulp made from wheat straw is commonly used in countries like China and Turkey where trees are in short supply. With the growing push for environmentally sustainable products, pulp and paper manufacturers in North America are also interested in wheat straw. Over the last decade, Wade Chute and his colleagues at the Alberta Research Council have been looking at how wheat straw pulp could meet our market demands for brightness and strength. He is the team leader for pulp and paper in the Forest Products Business Unit at the ARCl. As Chute explains, “In China they will cook wheat straw to a higher yield, so they will remove less of the lignan. As a result they will bleach to a lower brightness. The lower brightness and the higher yield basically saves them money, but it is more than enough to achieve the paper objectives that they have there. In North America, we seem to have this fascination with ultra high bright, ultra white, ultra pure printing and writing papers and that necessitates that you cook to a much, much lower yield. It also implies that you use a lot more bleach. So the straw pulp that’s produced in China right now, they just cook it and bleach it a little bit differently.” Chute says ARC’s pilot plant is now processing a wheat straw pulp that could meet the high standards of North American pulp and paper makers. What’s needed, however, is access to a full size pulping line to demonstrate that wheat straw pulp can be produced in commercial quantities. √ ~Cheryl Croucher
ho needs oil from Saudi Arabia or Fort McMurray when you can grow triticale in the back forty? Triticale is a cereal grain hybridized from wheat and rye half a century ago. It never took off as a substitute for wheat flour. But in the 21st Century, the Alberta Research Council is betting triticale will make a dandy substitute for petroleum. The Council has just received $15 million dollars from the federal Agricultural Bioproducts Innovation Program to show us how. Richard Gibson is the business development manager for Industrial Bioproducts at ARC, and marketing manager with the Canadian Triticale Biorefinery Initiative. He says the main interest in triticale is its potential for chemical and material applications. “If you had crude oil coming out of the ground and you put it into a refinery, you’ve got crude oil turned into a whole range of products. And if we think about triticale as the crude oil for a biorefinery and put triticale in one end of the refinery, we’d get a whole range of products coming out the other side— anything from materials to chemicals and energy as well. Gibson points out that triticale is a crop well suited for growing in marginal areas, and it is a good addition to a suite of industrial crops for biorefining, including hemp. √ ~ Cheryl Croucher
www.arc.ab.ca
www.arc.ab.ca
Perfecting Wheat Straw
PULP
TRITICALE... a new source of
bioproducts
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them with figuring out what the barriers were to young women going into science and engineering, and then more importantly, taking action . A quarter of a century later, Dr. Armour has several awards recognizing her achievements in this endeavour, including the Order of Canada. When asked what stands out about WISEST, she replies, “More and more, I’m beginning to discover what influence the programs that we’ve put in place have. And, if anyone had asked me when we started some of them, I would have been surprised.” She points to the WISEST Summer Research Program for girls in Grade 11. They spend six weeks working on serious research projects. When Dr. Armour and her colleagues wanted to determine what effect this six week program might have, they designed an experiment of their own. Of the group of students who applied for the program in 1994, out of the top 150 applicants, 50 were assigned to the full six week program, 50 had one day on campus, and 50 had nothing. Then the WISEST committee followed the progress of the careers of the three cohorts. “We discovered, after following them as long as we could for 10 years, that the commitment of the women who had spent the six weeks at the University of Alberta was considerably stronger to the sciences and engineering than it was in the other groups. One of the things we had to recognize was that all the young women who apply for the WISEST Summer Research Program do so because they are interested in science in the first place. But particularly the numbers who went on and did a PhD or a post doc… what really came through was this commitment.” Dr. Armour is excited about the new national role that WISEST is taking on. The group has been a member of the Canadian Coalition of Women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology for 20 years. Now, with some financial help from the Alberta government, Edmonton will become the
headquarters for a new national centre dedicated to improving the access of women to these nontraditional fields. “That means we have a national group that can pull together data which can help support the groups at the local level which can add value to what they are doing. It will really be a virtual centre. So, when a workshop needs to be done, we’ll be looking for a group in the area of the workshop that might be prepared to take it on… It will be a small, ongoing staff and eventually small, satellite offices across the country.”
CAREERS IN SCIENCE How do numbers of women stack up against men in the sciences and engineering faculties? Dr. Armour is quick to cite the statistics. In her role as Associate Dean, Diversity in the Faculty of Science, she is concentrating on increasing the number of women in the faculty. “Across the Faculty of Science at the moment,” she says, “we have something between 15 and 16 percent women, which is quite low.” That gives Dr. Armour lots of room for improvement at the higher levels. “When we first started our Women in Science program 25 years ago, there was probably about 25 percent enrolment in the first year of science. Now there’s 52 percent. So there’s a huge change in that area. And even in the graduate students, in the masters program it’s about 45 percent, PhD is about 38 percent. At post-doc, they drop off to 17 to 18 percent. And then faculty is down to 15 percent. So at each transition in the educational system, there are fewer women choosing to go on to the next step.” What that means, according to Dr. Armour, is that the pool of women who have the requirements for a faculty position is very small indeed. What accounts for that drop-off if just as many women as men are completing their Bachelor of
Juan Enriquez
Alberta’s
Bioeconomy
Potential
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he current global economic meltdown could easily crush inventors looking for investment capital. But according to Juan Enriquez, out of crisis comes opportunity. And Alberta companies focused on life sciences can profit from the emerging knowledge economy. He is one of the world’s foremost authorities on the business of life sciences, a founding director of the Harvard Business School’s Life Sciences Project, and author of As the Future Catches You. While in Edmonton recently for the Ingenuity in Our Community symposium, Enriquez offered his perspective. “The economic meltdown is in the financial and credit institutions, in the old economy. If you look at the top 10 performing stocks of last year, the ones that are doing very well, five or six of them are life science companies because people still get sick. People still need to be treated. People, if they have an additional dollar, probably want to spend it on a quality of life. So these are companies that have continued doing well, and that I expect will continue doing well despite the economic meltdown. Enriquez says Alberta can build a life sciences industry based on its strong capacity in research, resources and entrepreneurship. √ ~ Cheryl Croucher Learn more about Juan Enriquez at www.biotechonomy.com
On the APRIL
Science degrees? Well, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure that one out. It’s all about biology and a little common sense. “Women recognize that at some stage they may want to get married and have families. As undergraduates, they often hear from their teaching assistants in the lab what it is like being a graduate student. It’s a busy life and it’s fairly committed. And they see their faculty teachers and the lifestyle they have, and I think women are saying maybe that’s not what they want.” The big task for Dr. Armour is figuring out what the university can do to turn that situation around, so the potential of talented young women scientists isn’t lost to other professions. As it is, the competition among universities to attract the limited number of post-doctoral women is fierce. While speaking to a different issue, a comment by Dr. Armour could easily apply to this issue as well. “It’s been shown over and over again, when the workplace is friendly to women, it’s friendly to everybody.” Perhaps it’s time for a bit more flexibility in the lab and the classroom environment. How’s that for improving hiring perks to boost the numbers of female professors and researchers in the Faculty of Science? √ www.wisest.ualberta.ca To hear Cheryl’s conversation with Dr. Margaret-Ann Armour, visit www.innovationanthology.com Cheryl Croucher hosts Innovation Anthology which is broadcast on CKUA Radio at 7:58 am and 4:58 pm Tuesdays and Thursday. Or download the podcasts at www.innovationanthologyy.com
HORIZON
April 1 BioAlberta Breakfast Meeting Speaker Dr. Billen, VP & General Manager of Amgen Canada. 7:30 to 9am Royal Glenora Club RSVP 780-425-3802 April 1-3 Alberta Women Entrepreneurs Conference: Innovative Approaches to Success Speakers Debbie Travis, Eveline Charles, Ben Barry and Dr. Valerie Young Marriott River Cree Resort www.awebusiness.com April 1-19 Telus World of Science Lego Building Competition Prize: 5-day trip for 4 to Legoland, California Full details at www.telusworldofscience.com/edmonton
April 17 – 19 Witec Connections 2009 Connecting Wireless to Business Solutions Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel www.witecconnections.ca April 23 Business Link: Small Business Seminar Promotional Strategies: Create Buzz for Your Business Presenter: Greg Gazin, Parallel 2000/The Gadget Guy 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm 100, 10237- 104 Street, Edmonton 1-800-272-9675 (toll-free) 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm (via Videoconference) 250-639 5 Ave. SW, Calgary 403-221-7800 www.canadabusiness.ca/alberta/events
April 16 Cybera Luncheon Speaker Duncan Stewart of Deloitte Canada Research Visiting the Future and Reporting Back Room 333, UofA Computing Science Centre 11:45 to 1pm RSVP www.hypermail.cybera.ca/registration/index.php
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witter and other forms of social media continue to penetrate the psyche of Edmontonians. One indication is the kind thank you I received from Jason Darrah, communications business advisor for City of Edmonton within the deputy city manager’s office. He’s responsible for managing the @CityofEdmonton Twitter account (mentioned here last month). and as I found out there’s change in the wind. I asked Darrah what the City hoped to achieve through its early use of social media: Twitter, Youtube and Facebook. He gave several answers around the common theme of “listening to Edmontonians” and indicated that there is strong support to “connect better, be more open and responsive to Edmontonians.” With increased nimbleness, Darrah feels that the City will be in a better with Walter Schwabe position to “engage citizens.” when considering entry into the social web: “What about I must admit this was music to my social media ears but, before I get all misty, let’s back it up and talk about how the privacy, security and risk?” Beyond that Darrah said, “Everyone came to the realization that it’s not about @CityofEdmonton Twitter account came to be. Of course, controlling every citizen.” Thank goodness and good luck it’s not as simple as registering—ideally, it includes debate, to those who think they can actually do that—they’re living planning and discussion. Darrah briefly explained that this in a Technicolor dream world. “What we’re starting to see entire social media effort is a collaborative multiis a shift in thinking”—absolutely critical for social media department exercise… to be sure, this hasn’t happened efforts to be successful and not an easy thing to accomplish overnight. “The number one place we started was with a sound strategy… The project team began its work based on in a public sector environment. For example, many have witnessed in recent weeks, the assumption that using social media wasn’t an option Speaker Ken Kowalski’s efforts at trying to rein in social but, rather, an inevitability.” media activity within caucuses. And, many within the local There I go getting all misty again. Darrah credits the social media scene believe that Troy Wason’s departure success of the City’s efforts to date to support from the from PC caucus communications was a direct result of the Deputy City Manager Joyce Tustian. (Having the support of leadership is a critical first step; you’d be amazed at how controlling, anti-social media comments made by the Speaker in a government focused newsletter. More of the many don’t get past that point.) Speaker’s tongue-lashings regarding control over MLA’s The communications team at the City started the online activities during Question Period are welldiscussion with the same question almost every other large documented in Hansard. organization and certainly those in the public sector do
Social media
Back to the good work happening at the City, operating in near real-time for a large organization not used to doing so has implications. So I asked Darrah how this was impacting internal processes in his department and others. His response, “It’s impacting our internal informational best practices.” In other words, city departments are changing how they communicate. “The IT department has been very forward looking and there is fresh discussion around the process gap and practice changes, along with a cultural shift.” Ladies and gentlemen, these guys are on the right track. I’m often asked why, if it’s so easy to start up a profile on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, am I such a steadfast proponent of strategy development. Simple, for organizations that have something to lose, they typically have cultures that are not built for wide-open transparency happening in a real-time environment with people who have opinions. In some cases, miscalculated efforts end up being a barrage on the heart of the corporate soul, challenging established processes, assumptions, internal belief systems and corporate capacities in unexpected ways. Not everyone is designed to “connect better, be more open and responsive”—nor do they have the appetite to be so. Folks—like Darrah, who is clearly an evangelist for this team—who work for Robert Moyles, director of strategic communications, are tackling challenging philosophic issues and succeeding. The fact that it’s happening on Mayor Mandel’s watch shows savvy and guts. Political leaders in surrounding communities should roll-up their sleeves and immediately start planning. Remember: It’s inevitable. √
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Walter Schwabe is the Chief Evolution Officer of fusedlogic inc., a social media strategy firm and Alberta company since 2000. You can learn more at www.fusedlogic.com
Continued from page 11 A friend suggested a job with Speedy Cellular (a Cantel dealer, now Rogers). That gave her the bug for technology and made her realize that she could make more money in sales than a salaried position. “Our sales manager literally locked us in a room for eight hours a day and made us cold-call. I developed tough skin. I learned how to take rejection… and now I’m not afraid to pick up the phone and call anyone.” These new life skills and confidence and her passion for technology would prove to be invaluable. Moving from cell phones to IT Sales, she excelled in hardware and software solutions including Novell networks and eventually service support. “The sky’s the limit in sales and I loved technology.” Kerr fondly remembers the $14,000 commission cheque she received for one month’s work—big money in the 1980s. Technology also caught on in the Kerr household. “This is not your typical single mother latch-key story. In 1989, I sold my condo, so my kids could be closer to TD Baker School.” Located in South-East Edmonton, it was considered the high-tech junior high school in Canada. Two of her three attended. Kerr jokes about not being a “Soccer Mom,” but rather a “Gamer Mom.” Although she confesses Tiger Woods Golf was the extent of her personal gaming. While many parents abhorred the thought of kids wasting their time playing games, Kerr encouraged it. “Bryan, my eldest son, was 12 years old… Dave was nine when Doom/ Wolfenstein 3D released in ’92, and the boys started playing it at the office while I worked overtime on proposals.” At first, it was more to occupy their time, keep them off the streets and out of trouble… but it went beyond that, teaching them strategy,
agility and an appreciation for technology. “By the time Dave got serious about gaming in his early teens, he was one of the world’s top players.” All her children have embraced technology: Brandy, her 30-year old daughter, is in human resources and has a penchant for desktop publishing; David, 25, is the hardware guy, building computers; and Bryan, 29, is the programmer, just getting his portfolio, KerrDataSystems.com, up and running.
LIFE HAPPENS: REAL & SURREAL Kerr eventually moved into high-tech consulting, sales and marketing. However, during those gaming years, all was not fun and play. In 1994, Kerr was seriously injured in a car accident. “I’m lucky to be here… happy to be alive.” It was a slow recovery from a lifealtering event. She eventually got back on track and tried a couple of things, but admits there were times where deals went sour and a few projects just didn’t turn out as expected. However, Kerr could not curtail her belief that technology could break the distance barrier for business. So she started her own company and focused on virtual communications. While toying with a number of marketing ideas and how the Internet could play a significant role, she stumbled upon avatars—computer representations of the user. “Out-of-the-blue I cold-called their VP in the U.S., who suggested I contact the company itself in Asia.” The Taiwanese company, Reallusion was receptive. Not knowing exactly where to take this, an associate invested $5,000 in a trial run. Kerr herself would be the guinea pig—an accidental avatar. Not just any avatar, the first photo-real, full-body avatar.
“The guys made me in Taiwan,” she exclaimed. “It seemed funny. They kept sending the body and face back and forth— they made me.” She was presented in a brown suede suit and a necklace from Tiffany’s on-line store. “It was me, about as real as you can get. I could even see the bump on my nose.” While e-business was becoming more acceptable, a personal element was still missing. “I felt people wanted to see who they were dealing with and photo-real technology could help get us there.” But it was a November 2006 magazine article about IBM’s $100-million investment in virtual worlds that seemed to be Kerr’s tipping point. CEO Sam Palmisano was scheduling an announcement… a town hall-style meeting both in Beijing—physical—and Second Life—virtual—simultaneously. SL, created in 2003 by Linden Lab, is an Internet based 3D Virtual World designed as an alternate reality. Participants can interact through avatars. It even had its own currency, with real dollar exchange rates. “It drew me in. IBM invested… If it was good enough for them, we could make some money at it, too.” Moving full-steam ahead, Kerr registered, created avatars and started building customer relationships to do business in SL. “We created a virtual shopping mall, CanadaInSL. Telus had kiosks where they demonstrated cell phones. You could text message your avatar and real cell phones, too.” Kerr set up an avatar company to market 30-second voice-over photo-real avatars, both in the real and virtual world. But, there was small hitch: the cost. “We had a better product, but production costs were way too big; $7500 was a tough sell when you could buy SL avatars for $5.”
It was just too soon—Kerr’s product was way ahead of its time. SL still proved to be fruitful. That’s where she met and put together a virtual team of people around the world who are still together today… including Eric Hall, from San Francisco, part of the original SL platform creation. Kerr’s SL exposure resulted in creating training programs, which took her to the real California to deliver educational seminars and learning programs around virtual worlds. Returning to Edmonton, Kerr was determined to create her own virtual platforms as a business/communications tool—a Global Virtual World Training Centre here in Edmonton, based on a paper developed with Professor Dan O’Shea from Florida. After numerous discussions, meetings, research with a number of organizations, investors and individuals—and with Kinkaide’s assistance to create a business case—it was evident that there was a synergy between Kerr’s vision and TRLabs and what they could both bring to the table. “As VRtech emerged, it began to shift away from simply building virtual reality spaces to actually teleporting people into those spaces,” says Kinkaide. Think more of Al (Dean Stockwell)… Quantum Leap rather than the Princess Leia’s hologram from Star Wars. The rest, shall we say, is history—hmm, the future. √ Greg Gazin, “The Gadget Guy”, is a serial entrepreneur, freelance technology columnist, small business speaker, an avid Podcaster and producer of Toastcaster.com. Greg can be reached at 780.424.1881, gadgetgreg.com or greg@gadgetguy.ca EDMONTONIANS APRIL 2009
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