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EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
12851 - 56 Street, Edmonton, AB T5A 0C9
Tel: (780) 454-3444 Fax: (780) 454-3222
www.edmontonians.com Published by: Cedar Publishing Corporation President Moe Najmeddine Editor Barb Deters Sales Manager Sean Alexander Columnists John Berry • Linda Bodo • Cheryl Croucher Marty Forbes • Todd Hirsch • Bruce Hogle David Norwood • Erin Rayner • Nizar Somji FEATURE WRITERS Cheryl Croucher • Christina Emberley Drake MacHugh • Faaiza Ramji PHOTOGRAPHERS Bruce Clarke • Ian Jackson • Tracy Kolenchuk GRAPHIC PRODUCTION Rage Studios Inc. All rights reserved by Cedar Publishing Corporation. Reproduction or transmission of all or any part of this publication by any means whatsoever is strictly forbidden without prior written permission from the publisher. Although great care is taken to avoid errors in the preparation of advertising material and editorial content, any errors or omissions on the part of Cedar Publishing Corporation are limited and dealt with solely by printing a retraction statement and or correction in the following issue. Edmontonians Newsmagazine is a product of Cedar Publishing Corporation.
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www.cedarpublishing.com EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
in this issue... Message from the Publisher/Moe Najmeddine...................................... 4 From the Editor’s Desk/Barb Deters.....................................................5
About Town
VOX POP... with Marty Forbes..................................................................................... 6 Sizzling in the City... Erin Rayner meets 2007 Sizzler Brent Magnan........................................ 7 Hot Factor Concert... Local and national pop artists perform at WEM by Faaiza Ramji.......... 13
Opinions
Media Minute... Bruce Hogle highlights religious cooperation....................................... 12 Civic Buzz... David Norwood looks at issues facing our new Council....................... 43 Politically Incorrect... Extremists not the majority according to Nizar Somji........................... 44 Civic Wars... Nejolla Korris vents............................................................................... 45 Economic OUtlook... Todd Hirsch says we need heavenly help.............................................. 46
Features
9th Annual sizzling Twenty under 30... This year’s top professionals, entrepreneurs, performers and volunteers are profiled by Christina Emberley......................... 14-36 Global’s Dawna Friesen visits edmonton... Drake McHugh introduces us to the farm girl from Manitoba.............. 37
Visionaries
Double duty...CEOs are each other’s directors Cheryl Croucher showcases Andy and Sam Prochazka........................... 8 briefs with Cheryl Croucher News from the science and innovation community.............................. 10
Lively Lifestyles
Absolute bodo with Linda Bodo Upcycle and repurpose cans................................................................. 40 Menu Magic with Chef John Berry Preserving the fall bounty...................................................................... 42
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Message g
f r o m
I
t h e
’ve been a huge fan of Edmontonians magazine during my entire career. I was saddened when I heard the June edition would be its last. I felt it was a genuine loss to the city and surrounding area, and decided a newsmagazine would be a welcome addition to my repertoire of publications. Cedar Publishing Corporation currently publishes 15 magazines that target specific causes, professions and community initiatives with distribution locally, provincially and nationally as appropriate. I started the company in 1999 and it now employs more than 50 people. The response to my decision to resume publishing Edmontonians has been overwhelming, and I would like to thank the thousands of readers and advertisers for their ongoing support. I am pleased that Editor Barb Deters will continue in her role, and that regular contributors have agreed to resume their columns. The editorial focus will remain ‘the personality of business in the Capital Region’. That said, I have made a number of important changes: Most notably, Edmontonians will be issued quarterly on a seasonal basis; and, obviously, the size has changed to the more traditional magazine format. One of Edmontonians’ greatest successes is the Sizzling Twenty under 30 signature event which has profiled 160 dynamic, young entrepreneurs and promising professionals— all dedicated community volunteers—since 2002. Having been named a Sizzler myself in 2003, I know the value of this kind of exposure and recognition. I’m proud that my first edition will honour the efforts of the top 20 candidates
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p U B L I S HER
selected from more than 200 nominations received this year. The Annual Social Calendar, the Capital Region’s most comprehensive guide to the next year’s galas, will be issued in mid-December. This is the ninth year Edmontonians has compiled the guide, which is also posted online. In the coming months and years, I plan to expand Edmontonians support for charity and not-for-profit groups. To that end, I will be meeting with various community leaders and organizations to explore opportunities to create partnerships that will result in greater exposure and involvement. In the long term, I want Edmontonians to serve as an open forum for discussion and opinion… as a vehicle that will influence and inspire citizens to take positive actions for the betterment of the community… as a publication that reflects the social and economic fabric of our city and its leaders. I welcome ideas about how we can serve you better, and I look forward in working with all of you for many years to come. Please visit us online at www.cedarpublishing.com for more information about our publications. Sincerely,
Moe Najmeddine President Cedar Publishing Corporation moe@edmontonians.com
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
from the
EDITOR’S DESK
O
n June 24th, the day after the wake at Earl’s Tin Palace to celebrate—and mourn—the final edition of Sharon MacLean’s Edmontonians, I packed my bags and drove to Sidney by the Sea on Vancouver Island. This is an annual sojourn: filled with gardening at this seaside paradise… shopping for things I don’t need, but want… laughing with my dear friend Maureen... sharing an occasional bottle of wine… shushing Emily, my Yorkshire Terrorist, as she scolds passersby from her perch on the seawall. Through the wonders of webmail, I had always had access to the steady flow of columns and articles sent by our writers. I had always returned in mid-July to handle production details for the next month’s issue of the magazine. This time, there was no rush… no deadlines to meet… no pages to proof. Maureen and I still filled our days as we had in years past; Emily still voiced her displeasure at people and their dogs who invaded her territory. I could—and did—stay away for a month. I sought—and found—solace in the rhythm of the waves. I lamented my loss of purpose, and convinced myself I would enjoy my freedom from routine. I contemplated the pluses of inevitable retirement. And then, along came Moe. The day after my return, publisher Moe Najmeddine called to say he wanted to resurrect Edmontonians…give it a facelift. He hoped I would be interested in continuing in my role as editor. Would I? Would I? Of course. What else did I have to do? Sense of purpose restored, freedom and retirement be damned. There was work to be done—lots of work. Contact columnists and assign features. Review more than 200 nominations for Sizzling Twenty under 30 and arrange selection. Find a profile writer and photographers. Inform Sizzlers. Re-organize organizing committee for Sizzling reception at Lexus. Contact suppliers about specialty materials. Edit. Proof. Thank God for designer Shane Hill. Pour over final page proofs. Breathe. So here we are. Edmontonians has a new look, but its commitment to the community remains strong. The magazine is now part of large operation, which itself underscores that kind of commitment. Over the years, Cedar Publishing has donated more than $300,000 to charities and supports numerous fundraising events. Moe’s many volunteer activities include serving as president of the Canadian Mental Health Association-Edmonton, and vice-president of the Canadian Arab Professional & Business Club. It’s an exciting time for me personally and professionally. What is especially important is that Moe recognized the value of preserving Edmontonians as an independent voice in the city… that Edmontonians is an attribute that makes Greater Edmonton great… that Edmontonians own story would fit well within these pages.
bdeters@edmontonians.com EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
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...With Marty Forbes
Well, look at us all colourful and proud! Welcome to the new Edmontonians. Great to be back.
H
ey! We’re Grey Cup City! Forget the
Another great team that I’m working with is the
one putting together the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree event, Friday through Saturday, December 17th to 19th. Last year marked the return of this legendary Christmas musicfest, which moved into the Jubilee Auditorium as its new home. John Cameron and Don Robinson are the brains, the money, and the talent behind this magnificent show. If you went last season, you’ll know what I’m talking about—it’s virtually a Broadway show with a huge cast of dancers, singers, musicians, and the famous “tree” which now reaches from floor to ceiling in the Jube. I’m sworn to secrecy on some of the details of this year’s presentation, but please trust me when I say this show will not only blow you away but it will make your Christmas season. There will be a sixth performance, plus a gala VIP night on Friday featuring a very well known group of special guests joining the cast. As well, some of the musicians are on loan to us from David Foster’s Band in Los Angeles. It’s an entirely new show—start to finish—and full information is available on either of our websites: www. edmontonsingingchristmastree.com or on the Facebook friends site. You can also enter our Home for Christmas contest on the web, and possibly be reunited with a family member from far away during the event. Proceeds from the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree are being directed to another project close to my heart, the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit. When completed, it will house Santas Anonymous and several other Edmonton charities under one roof. Check out www.jerryforbescentre. ca for more information.
on-field problems… it’s the off-field fun we’re talking about. I’m proudly involved in the 2010 Grey Cup Festival and we are proud to present a five-day event that the entire city will be proud to be involved in. There really is something for everybody with most of the activity focused downtown. We kick off the fun on Wednesday, November 24th at City Hall. The CFL Player Awards go Thursday night. The downtown festival happens all day Thursday through Sunday—there’s the street festival; Canadian Football Hall of Fame; Scotiabank CFL Experience; EPCOR Activity Centre; and Boston Pizza Indoor Tailgate Party… there’s the parade, the Cheerleader Extravaganza and parties everywhere. The Gala Dinner is Friday night at the Edmonton Expo Centre. The legendary Spirit of Edmonton Breakfast is at the Shaw Conference Centre, both Saturday and Sunday. You’ll find the CFL teams party rooms spread out at various hotels, including The Westin, home of the Spirit. This year we’re calling it Hot to Finally, as you read Huddle—mostly because the time we Edmonton’s Singing Christmas Tree this, I’ll just be hopping used the Party in Your Parka theme the off a plane back from a weatherman made sure we needed to dress trip to Europe with a bunch like the Michelin man for the weekend. of hockey fans who were The executive director of the Grey Cup traveling with the Phoenix 2010 Festival is Duane Vienneau who says, Coyotes. The team was “The theme is tailor-made for use by retailers, opening its season over hoteliers and others eager to support and be part of there with two games the effort. It’s also a reminder that, while it’s cold against the Boston Bruins. outside, there is nothing like a warm welcome and We’re spending a week on a fun time to take away the chill of cold November an amazing tour to Prague, days. known as one of the most “The Grey Cup is Canada’s single biggest sporting beautiful and culturally rich event, uniting people from coast to coast. I’m eager to cities in the world. We have private tours of the historical to make Edmonton’s fourth Grey Cup, the biggest and best yet.” I remember my very first-ever Grey Cup, in 1962 in Toronto. It sites, a river tour, our own private bus with translator… and we get to attend a team practice. I’m hoping to hop over was the famous Fog Bowl where the game was played over two to Austria for a day to do a little motorcycle tour of that days. I also cherish Edmonton’s frozen win over Montreal in the 1975 Grey Cup in Calgary; and again when we were in Calgary’s stunningly beautiful part of the world. So, I’m busy as a beaver… lovin’ it! See you in the spring. √ dressing room celebrating an Esks win in Cowtown a decade or so ago. I hope they don’t return the courtesy to us this year. The game is sold out… but the events are not. Watch for ways Marty Forbes is president of Radiowise Inc, and can be reached to get involved and share in the national game. For details and at marty@edmontonians.com tickets, visit www.greycupfestival2010.com.
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EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
with Erin Rayner
W
riting this column, I get to meet some pretty interesting people. Often when I connect with Sizzlers from years past, they aren’t in the same place they were when they were selected. With a group that moves so quickly, it’s no wonder. It’s been said that Generation Y could experience five career changes in their working lives and entrepreneurs are not the exception. I know my own experience has been one of dreams of being a jazz singer to working in film and television… then on to marketing, event planning and business ownership. Brent Magnan was named a Sizzler in 2007. At the time, he was a 24-year old University of Alberta grad who, along with a partner, owned and operated Comamigo Canada, a master distributor of VOIP telephone systems in Canada. Like many entrepreneurs and members of Generation Y, his first foray into business was a place to learn and grow but, after some soulsearching, he decided selling utility services wasn’t where his interest laid. “We transitioned out of that business in late 2007,” says Brent. “It is a really competitive industry, and my passion wasn’t in phone service.” With partners Darren Weeks and Jim Sand, he launched Fast Track Capital, a private equity investment company that specializes in international real estate. “I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do in university but, if I’d known what I know now, I would have aimed for this position in this industry.” When the trio got their start in early 2008, the economy was sliding and the stock market was in turmoil. Investing in real estate was the last thing on many peoples’ minds. Investors were just looking to hold on to the funds they still had and were leery of re-investing. The market was somewhat paralyzed. “On one hand, it proved our point about the volatility of public investing,” Brent suggest. Then, as if testing their commitment to the industry, their second investment property was severely damaged by a hurricane later that year. Even with that rough start, two years later Fast Track has 102 staff in 10 offices in Western Canada, 4000 investors, $200 million in assets, and has been named to Profit Magazine’s 100 fastest growing companies. According to Brent, “Our vision is to become the largest private equity company in Canada in the next three years with $1 billion in assets. And I think we can do it.” Now I love a good BHAG—Big Hairy Audacious Goal—to quote Jim Collins in his book Built to Last.
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Maybe it’s just a residual conservative attitude after the economic changes in the last few years, but my immediate thought was ‘what is growth like that going to cost, both financially and in terms of work-life balance?’ So, I asked Brent: How does it feel to know you have three years to go at this pace? “It is a daunting task. We delude ourselves into thinking all our systems are in place and it will be smooth sailing from here. But I know we’ve probably got lots of hurdles to overcome and I feel tired but energized when I think of it (what lies ahead).” He continues, “Everyone in the company has sacrificed in pay or long hours and I have too. But we are developing this amazing corporate culture. The balance is coming.” It sure is. Brent is looking forward to a three week surfing trip in Costa Rica this winter. I was fascinated to interview someone who, at the ripe old age of 27, has started his second business and second career. I wanted to know what lessons transferred from one business to the next. Brent answered without hesitation, “I learned a lot about sales [at Comamigo]. Not just selling but about building a sales team. It was and still is the most frustrating and rewarding thing we deal with.” It sounds like the future is still sizzling for this 2007 Sizzler. √ Erin Rayner is president of ED Marketing and Communications Inc. Contact erayner@edmontonians.com
Brent Magnan 7
CEOs are directors in each other’s companies Andy
Sam
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
B
arely 30 years old, the Prochazka twins have already made their mark in the world of business. Andy and Sam graduated in 2001 with degrees in computer engineering from the University 8
of Alberta, just in time for the dot com crash. Unlike the year before, in 2001 there weren’t many IT recruiters hanging around to snap up bright young grads, so Andy and Sam had to make their own way.
And they did so by starting companies in the fields of real estate and medical devices. Sam is CEO of RealPageMaker and Andy is the CEO of Rehabtronics. They both hold director positions in each other’s companies. EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
By Cheryl Croucher RealPageMaker grew out of Sam’s effort to create a multi-functional website for a realtor friend. “I didn’t really know how to do it, but I took a stab at it anyway.” While naïve at the start, Sam soon realized he had stumbled onto something big. Now hailed as pioneers, Sam and Andy and their company forced major changes in real estate marketing. “What the public doesn’t know is that what you access on CREA, the Canadian Real Estate Association website, is data that is up to a week out of date,” Sam explains. “Our innovation was in linking directly to the MLS data base and presenting the data through realtors’ websites directly, without delay so you could find the listings immediately.” A lot of this technology has since been duplicated by competitors, but the Prochazkas were the first to do it in Canada. RealPageMaker was also the first company in Canada to have a Google map search engine. It has clients in the thousands across western Canada and is making inroads into the United States. Andy heads up Rehabtronics, a company the family started to market an invention by their father Dr. Arthur Prochazka, a neurophysiologist at the University of Alberta. He created a medical device called ReJoyce, the Rehabilitation Joystick for Computerized Exercise. It’s designed to help patients suffering from stroke or paralysis to regain movement in their upper limbs. Sam describes the device as looking like a big desk lamp with a funny contraption on the end of it. “It simulates activities like turning doorknobs or picking up a can of pop or undoing a lid on a jar of jam. And with this, the patients play computer games. We’ve got a gardening game where they have to weed a garden and put the weeds into a compost pile before the flowers die. There’s another game where they play bartenders, filling up beverages and giving them out to clientele, thus simulating movement.” EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Sam looks at the development of Rehabtronics as being vastly more complex than RealPageMaker in terms of hardware. There’s also the detailed work involved in getting the ReJoyce system FDA certified. “Actually delivering the device to market is a huge undertaking. It’s just about to wrap up now and we’re just about to release it. But once it’s there—once it’s accepted—it will be a game changer.” Looking ever forward, the two brothers are using their expertise to expand into e-commerce. And for that, they’ve brought their younger sister, Helenka, into the fold.
“It’s easy when you have someone with essentially the same brain, right down to the DNA, and that you know very well.” The product is memory foam mattresses. “Andy and I are passive investors and our sister is the principle, getting the business up and running,” says Sam. What imbued these young men with their formidable entrepreneurial drive? Sam explains their grandfather ran a food import business in Australia. At home, their father encouraged entrepreneurship. And the boys took their own first stab at business in high school. “The school store was very expensive so we decided to undercut them, selling out of our lockers. We couldn’t get Costco memberships so we went to Real Canadian Wholesale. We couldn’t drive either so we went on our bikes. Andy and I picked up stuff on the weekends and stored it at school. We’d bring cool beverages and ice in every morning. It was a lot of work, but it was successful.” A bit too successful. The school administration shut the pair down after
a few weeks. But in Grade 12, when the school store shutdown for lack of staff, it was the same administrators who approached Andy and Sam to get it back up and running. Cooperation between the twins is their hallmark now, but it wasn’t always that way. “We once competed viciously. But that got replaced in high school when we realized it would be easier if we could reduce the volume of work. Not just split it, but work together on it. It’s easy when you have someone with essentially the same brain, right down to the DNA, and that you know very well.” Even so, Sam does advocate there is a role for a wee bit of difference and dominance. “If you do go into business together, whether with a friend or family member, choose a primary. The buck has to stop with only one person. It can’t stop with two. So, if there’s a dispute, the decision comes from the one person who has 50 plus one percent. Otherwise, there will be problems.” When offering advice to young entrepreneurs just starting out in business, Sam makes two points. One is to choose a big enough market. Two is to embrace real work. “Don’t convince yourself you’re doing work when you’re not. For example, Facebook is not work, no matter how you spin it.” And, in the world according to Sam and Andy Prochazka, what is real work? Sam says, “Real work is not glamourous and it’s not social. It’s figuring out how you can make money and how you are going to pay your employees… and how you are going to make a profit. That’s real work and it’s hard.” √ http://www.realpagemaker.com/ http://www.rehabtronics.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 9
Visionaries Briefs FOCUS
on fibre conversion
technology
T 10
Dr. Stan Blade he growing bio-economy is fuelled by advances in agriculture and forestry. And the development of new technology is what
By Cheryl Croucher
underlines the creation of Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions. Taking the lead as the corporation’s new CEO is Dr. Stan Blade. He brings to the position his extensive experience abroad as a researcher, and as chair of the former Alberta Agricultural Research Institute. As Dr. Blade explains, the new Bio Solutions agency will focus on sustainable production, food and health, bio-refining and a new field called fibre conversion. “There is a remarkable amount of biomass in this province. We have 35 million hectares of forest, over 20 million hectares of annual crops and forage crops in Alberta. But not only that, what are those convergence technologies that can take that biomass and turn it into those new products? We’re making those kinds of investments as well.” Perhaps one example is the new bioconversion network that’s run out of the University of Alberta. Says Dr. Blade, “That’s made up of a number of companies from both within and outside Alberta giving some consideration to what can we do with ag-fibre, with forest fibres, to create fine chemicals, to create a whole array of products that don’t really exist right now.” According to Dr. Blade, Bio Solutions will help commercialize new technology from agricultural and forestry research. √ www.albertainnovates.ca/bio/ introduction
Dr. Eddy Issacs
Isaacs has broad mandate to seek
Energy & Environment Solutions
N
ow that Alberta has revamped its innovation framework, one of the new organizations to emerge is called Alberta Innovates Energy and Environment Solutions. The new CEO is Dr. Eddy Issacs who previously led the agency’s forerunner, the Alberta Energy Research Institute. Dr. Isaacs outlines his mandate as one which will help Alberta produce clean energy with a low carbon footprint. “We’re broadly focusing on energy technologies, environmental
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
technologies, and renewable and emerging resources. Out of those three areas come a number of programs that we are carrying forward. Some of them we have inherited from the old Alberta Energy Research Institute, such as looking at CO2 and looking at renewables. Now we’re putting a lot more emphasis on renewables… but also on unconventional gas, on bitumen, both recovery and processing of hydrocarbons.” He points out that Alberta’s complex energy resources bring big challenges for both researchers and policy makers and that’s why finding ways to reduce energy and water usage will play major roles in future research. For example, energy production in Alberta could not happen without the use of water. But several recent events have focused public attention on toxic tailings ponds, declining lake levels, and disturbed watersheds. And the public is demanding change. That’s why the Alberta Water Research Institute is now under the umbrella of this new agency. As Dr. Isaacs explains, “The former Alberta Energy Research Institute looked only at water as it related to the energy industry. Our main focus was on tailings because that’s a huge issue for the province. And, if we’re going to improve our reputation and our performance in the environmental area, then tailings is going to be a big component of that. The addition of the Alberta Water Research Institute helps because they have been looking
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
at water quality both domestically and with municipalities, and very broadly at water usage. By coming together, we now are looking at the all aspects of water in the environment, if you like. From the tailings in the oil sands to the drinking water in everybody’s home, that is the mandate. Dr. Isaacs says some AIEES research will look at how the industry can reduce its use of freshwater and substituting brackish water instead. AIEES also brings under its umbrella the Alberta Ingenuity Centre for In Situ Energy and the Alberta Ingenuity Centre for Oil Sands Innovation. √ www.albertainnovates.ca/energy/ introduction
FORESIGHT GURU
L E A D S U N E S C O G RO U P
F
or some people, one job just isn’t enough. Dr. Axel Meisen is a case in point. Not only is he the chair of Foresight at Alberta Innovates Technology Futures, now he is also the new president of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. On the education front, Dr. Meisen will focus on ways for UNESCO to expand adult education. On the science front, he sees major concerns over health.
Dr. Axel Meisen “I think a very important part of science that we need to think about and we have to do something about is the field of health sciences. We all know that being healthy is key to one’s present and to one’s future. We all know that the health care system is currently experiencing major cost pressures and those will not go away. We know that many Canadians are not as healthy as they would like to be. So I think there is an opportunity here to enable people to understand the science of health much, much better than what we are currently doing,” Dr. Meisenis looking forward to combining his foresight work in Alberta with the UNESCO mandate to resolve important health concerns. √ www.albertainnovates.ca/technology www.arc.ab.ca www.unesco.ca/en/default.aspx
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MEDIAMINUTE
A carefully staged puppet show?
W
herever I travel, the
first thing I acquire is a newspaper or Internet access to one. When holidaying in Canmore last month, the Calgary Herald had three superb stories dealing with religion. One was about the Al-Madinah Calgary Islamic Centre lead imam Syed Soharwardy being given permission for his 2,000-member congregation to regularly pray this year at the Airdrie United Church and the Symons Valley United Church in Kincora. That included Friday prayer, as well as nightly prayer during the entire month of Ramadan. The actions of the people at those two churches is made even more remarkable when you consider the hate, anger and other negative gestures many Christians expressed toward Muslims on the ninth anniversary of 9/11 which saw 3,000 killed, including 30 Canadians. That might explain results of the second Herald story on a poll conducted by Leger Marketing in Canada and Caravan Marketing in the U.S. It revealed that 55 percent of Canadian respondents and 50.3 percent of Americans disagreed when asked whether “Muslims share our values.” Regional differences were evident with 72 percent of Quebecers—not surprising— stating Muslims don’t share our values. Alberta, where some 35,000 Muslims reside, was closer to the national average, with 57.9 percent stating values weren’t shared by Muslims, compared to 32.4 percent who said they were. Maybe the reason why the majority of Albertans and Canadians polled feel Muslims don’t share our values can best be summed up by the third story I read in
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the Calgary Herald. It was not written by a reporter but, rather, by two highly respected Muslim Canadians: Salma Siddiqui, VP of the Muslim Canadian Congress and an Ottawa businesswoman; and Tarek Fatah, author of the recently released book The Jew Is Not My Enemy. Appreciating that western journalists are often accused of fabricating stories on such subjects as honour killings in Canada (which I have done with grim examples), I think the message from Siddiqui and Fatah is meaningful for Muslims Canadians – if their religious leaders are prepared to listen. Siddiqui and Fatah remind us all of that 2007 Environics poll which found 12 percent of Canada’s Muslims had a favourable disposition toward those “Toronto 18” terrorists, with 14 percent identifying themselves as extremists within the Muslim community. This means, they added, “There could be as many as 100,000 Muslim Canadians who are hostile to Canada and western civilization—a scary number by any measure.” Linking the Toronto 18 and recent charges about the Ottawa terrorist plot, Siddiqui and Fatah scolded leadership of traditional Islamist organizations and the mosque establishment of “…repeating the now tired and cliché-ridden depiction of Muslims as the real victims” and “…Islam being a religion of peace and denouncing terrorism, while keeping mum about jihad.” They bluntly warned: “We have no hesitation in condemning the rising tide of jihadi radicalism sweeping like a contagious disease among Muslim youth, especially of Pakistani ancestry, across Canada.”
That’s why, they cautioned, young Islamists on campuses with Bruce Hogle across Canada are distributing free booklets titled Towards Understanding Islam, written by Abul Ala Maududi. Siddiqui and Fatah emphasized that Maududi exhorts Muslims to launch jihad, as in armed struggle, against non Muslims. Fatah and Siddiqui conclude their in depth Calgary Herald piece with this prediction: “Unless the leaders of Canadian mosques, as well as Islamic organizations, denounce the doctrine of jihad, their chant that Islam means peace will fall on deaf ears. It will merely reinforce the suspicions of many Canadians, who feel some overseas groups are pulling the strings in this carefully staged puppet show.” With the incredible gesture of opening their doors and hearts to the 2,000 members of the Calgary Al-Madinah Calgary Islamic Centre by congregations of the United Churches of Airdrie and Kincora, this would be a golden opportunity for the Centre’s lead iman Soharwardy to denounce the doctrine of jihad once and for all… to urge his fellow imans to do likewise… and to advocate the dismissal from the Islamic faith for those still professing same. I’ll be anxiously awaiting his actions. √ Bruce Hogle is the former news director at CFRN TV and retired head of the Alberta Press Council. Contact bhogle@ edmontonians.com
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Emerging Artists Showcased
By Faaiza Ramji
J
ohn Yerxa is no stranger to the Edmonton radio community. He has a feel for the city… spots trends… and knows where the action is. So, when he embarked on his latest broadcast venture, he focused on sounds that would appeal to the young listener, and set up in the middle of West Edmonton Mall. HOT 107 is one of the only FM radio stations in a major Canadian market that is locally owned and operated. As such, it has made a tremendous financial commitment—over $700,000 during its first license term—to support and nurture local musical artists. Shortly after its launch in October 2009, HOT 107 announced its HOT Factor Program, designed to support and encourage local artists through education, mentorship and promotion. The unique initiative kicked off in early 2010 with an open call to artists, looking for anyone in Edmonton who demonstrated the “hot factor”—whether in the form of singing, songwriting, performing or production—in any music genre. Then, in mid-May, HOT 107 hosted an Emerging Artist Workshop for over 100 members who had signed up for
its program. The station partnered with Alberta Music (AMIA) and the Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings (FACTOR) to educate artists about developing marketing plans and obtaining funding. The day also included a demo critique session with an expert panel including Chris Taylor, a prominent entertainment lawyer and founder of Last Gang Entertainment— home of Metric, MSTRKRFT and Crystal Castles.. The program culminated with the HOT Factor Showcase 2010, a free concert in West Edmonton Mall that attracted hundreds of fans. It featured six local acts—Young Desperado, Habe, Vibe So Fly, DpaC, Sonik & K-Blitz, C-prian, and Mass Choir. Also taking the stage were headliners Craig Smart and Elise Estrada, two internationally-recognized Canadian pop stars. Owner and general manager Yerxa says he is thrilled with the outcome of the first HOT Factor program, pointing out, “HOT 107 is dedicated to its listeners, and they have demanded greater exposure to the depth of talent this city has to offer. Therefore, we will continue to assist and showcase as many local artists as we can.” Check out more about the HOT Factor Program, including profiles of the six amazing, local acts at www.hot107.ca /hotfactor.php. √
Mary H of Mas urlbert s Choi r
C-Prian
Habe EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Headliner Craig Smart Pop star Elise Estrada 13
m a e r D Maker M
ost tomboys don’t give much thought to weddings—at least, not until they abandon sneakers for stilettos and sweats for skirts. Just ask Jennifer Bergman: At 26, weddings are now top-of-mind. As the owner of a wedding planning company, she gets her thrills from table settings, floral arrangements and dreamy atmospheres. Who knew this was her destiny? While enrolled in commerce at the University of Alberta, Jennifer worked for Fountain Tire as her academic co-op. Upon graduation in 2007, she was hired full time in the marketing department. She discovered her enthusiasm for event planning, after putting together the annual convention for Fountain Tire’s managers. “My passion came out, I loved it. It was the favourite part of my job.” Jennifer was never one to dream about her own wedding day but, when she got engaged and started planning, things changed. She saw the potential for a viable business. After her marriage in May 2008, Jennifer achieved certification from the Wedding Planner Institute of Canada that September, and launched her website two months later. For almost two years, Jennifer Bergman Weddings was a
JENNIFER BERGMAN Wedding planner, goal setter
14
sideline. But, in May, she left Finning to focus her full attention on making wedding day dreams come true for other couples. Because of the web presence, word-of-mouth, and her own hard work and dedication, Jennifer has planned more than 20 weddings for clients from all over Canada. But, she stresses it isn’t just about cakes and napkin holders. “I can be their sounding board for ideas. I’m sometimes a counselor when they have issues... I see it all. It’s nice because it’s such a people job and I feel like I’m always learning.” Outside her business, Jennifer is a director on the University of Alberta Alumni Association, a board aimed at keeping alumni engaged as well raising funds for scholarships. She also applies her skills to planning its special events and business alumni dinners. In terms of the future, Jennifer is concentrating on how to grow her flourishing business. To do that, she follows her father’s advice to ‘just do what feels right’. She prefers to make goals instead of plans. She recalls a professor telling her class to write down 101 things they wanted to do before they died, explaining that writing goals down helped achieve them. Well, it worked for Jennifer. Starting her own company—once high on her Bucket List—has been crossed off. “You can make them happen through goal-setting,” she says. “If you’re open to those opportunities, they’ll happen.” √ ~ Christina Emberley
Photo by Bruce Clarke EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
’ ’ y a D y r e v ‘‘E E N G I N EER N OT Y O U R
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
A
ndrew Usenik is effectively managing dual careers. The 24-year old is the lead singer of Ten Second Epic and a civil engineer with IBI Group. The five-man alternative pop/rock band was formed in 2002, when the members were still in high school. Four years later, when the band signed to Black Box Recordings, Andrew was enrolled at the University of Alberta. Did he quit school? No, he stayed dedicated to his studies and received his civil engineering degree in 2008, despite his hectic touring schedule. “At the end of it, I was doing some crazy, crazy stuff to get my degree done,” Andrew recalls. Crazy stuff like flying from a show in Pittsburgh the night before, writing four exams back-to-back in 10 hours… only to fly back the same night for a gig in Philadelphia. “It was one heck of a party that night,” Andrew laughs. “I had the weight of the world lifted off my shoulders.” But, the beat goes on. Ten Second Epic is enjoying national success, and touring internationally. This year, it received nominations for Juno’s New Group, and Much Music’s Independent Video Award for Every Day, which is posted on YouTube. This was the group’s fourth MMVA nomination in the past four years, and second in the best indy category. At the same time, Andrew is getting closer to his designation as a professional engineer. Currently, he is working for IBI Group, an urban development design consulting group, where he earns hours whenever he can. He also volunteers with Edmonton Urban Development Institute and Alberta Music, two organizations close to his heart.
ANDREW USENIK Lead singer, recording artist, engineer
Luckily, Andrew has had a lot of time to put in hours at IBI this summer. The band has been stationed in Edmonton working on a new album. This will be the first album they have written, preproduced and recorded in Edmonton, and Andrew is hoping this one will “bring it home”. When talking about the future, Andrew has Juno Awards written all over his face. “To me it would be a huge accomplishment to be the first band to win one of those awards with five members all born, raised and currently living in Edmonton.” Wouldn’t that bring a whole new meaning to Hometown? √ ~ Christine Emberley EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
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T
he 2010 edition of Edmontonians Sizzling Twenty under 30 introduces readers to another 20 dynamic, young entrepreneurs from the Capital Region. Since 2002, we have featured the faces and stories of 180 accomplished and impressive men and women. They are the Sizzlers—self-starters… promising professionals… gifted artists and performers… hard-working entrepreneurs… motivated community volunteers. They are dynamic, creative, urban and modern trendsetters. They are the products of
our colleges, universities and life’s experiences—driven by the need to succeed. This year, the selection of the final Sizzling 20 was particularly challenging. More than 200 nominations were submitted by business leaders, professional mentors, colleagues, educators and interested individuals— including parents, siblings and friends. The level of commitment to community and entrepreneurship, evidenced among the candidates, was inspiring and impressive. The finalists’ stories pay homage to all the nominees. Christina Emberley, a recent graduate of
the journalism program at Grant MacEwan University, interviewed the finalists, wrote the profiles and provided a first-person account of her experience. The majority of photographs were taken by Bruce Clarke and Tracy Kolenchuk. Edmontonians Sizzling Twenty under 30 encourages other young Albertans to reach beyond their grasp. And, as part of this Signature Event, Lexus of Edmonton— together with Edmontonians, Global Edmonton, HOT 107FM and numerous corporate sponsors—host a blazing reception to recognize our rising stars. √
KRISTINE AANDERSON
JENNIFER BERGMAN
ANGEL CHOK
GREGORY BOTT
LANDON CROOME
Registered Provisional Psychologist Aanderson Animal Assisted Counselling 780.953.8979 kristineaanderson@gmail.com
JUSTINE BARBER
Senior Program Planner Housing & Urban Affairs Government of Alberta 780.850.7135 Justine.barber@gov.ab.ca
FRANK BARRY
Owner, Coach, Track Builder Barry’s Ultra Motosports Park Busby, Alberta 780.405.2630 info@bumpmx.com www.bumpmx.com
LISA BELANGER
Personal Trainer Doctoral Student, Research Assistant University of Alberta 780.938.4644 lisa.belanger@ualberta.ca
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Owner Jennifer Bergman Weddings 780.298.8244 info@jenniferbergmanweddings.com 214, 10030.110 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 1J5
Owner/Operator Original Joe’s Restaurant and Bar 65301 Wye Road, Sherwood Park T8V 0A4 780.554.6640 gbott@originaljoes.ca
Owner/Operator Novelle Bridal Shop 780.761.0888 info@novellebridal.com 12424 102 Avenue, Edmonton www.novellebridal.com
President and Co-founder Phantom/Solaris Products Ltd. 780.980.8588 • 780.720.8778 #102 7811 Sparrow Drive, Leduc landon@solariscanada.com info@solariscanada.com www.solarisproducts.ca www.solariscanada.com
KEITH BRUINSMA President Yellowhead Waterjet 780.758.4665 yhwj@shaw.ca www.yhwj.com
TOM ERICKSON
COO Renovation Watch Dogs 780.700.6767 tome@renovationwatchdogs.com www.renovationwatchdogs.com
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
MARK HOLOWAYCHUK
Owner, Live Pure Health www.LivePureHealth.ca Co-founder/Owner, PerfectShakers.com www.PerfectShakers.com CEO, Vitamart.ca www.VitaHub.ca 780.628.4139 • 780.266.2833 mark@livepurehealth.ca
ZIYAH KARMALI
AMANDA LUSK
Owner Master & Master Real Estate 780.469.5637 3411 - 107th Avenue, Edmonton accounts@masterrecorp.com www.masterrecorp.com
CAROL McBEE
Teacher/Model/Journalist 780.297.6796 zbhagat@ualberta.ca
President & Founder Mommy Connections & Bossy Momma 780.554.8687 carol@bossymomma.com
MAZIYAR KHORASANI
ANDREI METELITSA
Co-founder/VP Business Development Biolithic Corporation 780.729.4334 maziyar@biolithic.com 4344 Enterprise Square 10230 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton www.biolithic.com
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Canadian Board Certified Dermatologist Fellowship, SkinCare Physicians, Assistant Clinical Professor, Tufts University School of Medicine Boston andrei.metelitsa@gmail.com
ERIN RADKE-HALL
Chartered Accountant Director of Training, Junior Chamber International Edmonton 780.224.7954 erin@jciedmonton.com www.jciedmonton.com
JOTI TUNG
Owner Zaika Bistro Bar 780.462.8722 joti@zaikabistro.com 5303 Ellwood Drive, Edmonton
ANDREW USENIK
Lead Singer, Ten Second Epic Consultant, IBI Group 780.428.4000 tensecondepic@hotmail.com andrew.usenik@ibigroup.com
ARIF VIRJI
Pharmacist/Owner LeMarchand Dispensary 780.906.0790 arif.virji@shaw.ca #3B 11503 100 Avenue, Edmonton
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Dispensing more than
Pills
A
rif Virji didn’t always want to be a pharmacist. In his youth, he preferred audio and visual activities, often making wedding videos for family. But, in an attempt to decide what to do after school, he shadowed a family friend at his pharmacy. This experience put Arif on the path that got him to where he is today. “It really opened my eyes to what pharmacy was. It was more than counting pills and wearing a white coat,” Arif remembers. “It’s relationships with people and helping them through hard, difficult times.” While studying pharmacy at the University of Alberta, Arif worked at the Real Canadian Superstore Pharmacy. He then moved on to Sobey’s, where he signed a one-year contract after his graduation in 2005. He went on to open its Leduc location as a manager, where he got his first taste of running a business. Last year, when the opportunity arose to buy his own pharmacy, Arif didn’t second-guess it. “The risk is always there, but I thought, ‘It’s something I wanted to do eventually’… and, if this opportunity was the first one, I was willing to jump at it.”
ARIF VIRJI
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
Pharmacist, volunteer, ball hockey player
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Now the owner of LeMarchand Dispensary, Arif is enjoying his new responsibilities and giving it all he’s got. At 27, he’s already married, running his own business and volunteering as often as possible. His passion for helping people also plays into the volunteer work he does alongside his wife, Seema. An active member of his Ismaili community, Arif helps with the mini-medical clinics, presented at mosques around the city. He believes the clinics are crucial aspects of raising awareness about health issues, given South Asians have a much higher risk of certain ailments like diabetes, heart conditions, and high blood pressure. Arif also says it’s imperative to give back, because it is the volunteers that really keep the Ismaili community together. “Everything that’s done—any person that cleans or helps out in any regard in our community—really makes it run.” He also stays involved by playing on the Ismaili Ball Hockey League, something he has been doing for over 10 years. At the end of the day, Arif works hard and stays thankful for all he has. He is a true believer that what comes around goes around. “Everything in life is not just given to you… you’re not entitled to it. You should use what you’ve got to give back.” √ ~ Christina Emberley
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Mastering
a better life
A
manda Lusk is not afraid to talk about money. She’s actually quite good at it. And, since a young age, she’s also been very good at making it. When she was 19 years old, Amanda got her first taste of commission. After taking a real estate certification course from MSB, she bought her first house, renovated it, and then flipped it. She worked hard for her money, doing most of the renovations herself and putting all she had into the property. Amanda admits when she got to hold a $30,000-cheque, “I was hooked!” She continued her ventures in real estate, eventually teaming up with her husband Jan to buy, hold and sell properties. In 2003, they formed Master & Master Real Estate Corporation. With their in-depth knowledge of the industry, success wasn’t difficult to come by. Amanda, now 29, and Lan have a net worth of over $21-million. And they want to share that knowledge with the community, in order to create great partnerships and educated independence. To this end, Master & Master offers weekend classes, free of charge, for those looking to learn more about real estate, including how to buy with little or no money down, and no credit.
AMANDA LUSK Real estate investor, instructor
While people of all types and places are welcome, Amanda has a passion for educating women. She teaches them ways to become financially independent; a topic that is often seen as taboo. “Women have a tendency not to want to talk about money,” Amanda says. She is also a frequent speaker at various women’s groups and conventions, doing even more to help women succeed. Luckily, she is able to combine her volunteer work and her company, as many of the women she speaks to participate in her classes. “I had a lot of women come into a course the week after I’d speak, which is fantastic to see.” Amanda feels the topic is important because so many women are dependant on their spouses. After being out of the workforce to raise children, or following the death of their husbands, many women are left with few resources. Amanda advocates real estate investment with minimal money as a great path to take—one house can generate 10 ten years of investment income. But their good deeds don’t stop there. Amanda and Lan sponsor two children through World Vision, and are active participants in the Treasure Life Golf Classic. Clearly, Amanda is not simply satisfied in helping people build better businesses, but better lives as well. √ ~ Christina Emberley EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Photo by Bruce Clarke 19
... Bossy in the best way
C
Photo supplied
arol McBee has deftly combined her joys of motherhood with her business acumen. Carol received an academic scholarship to study at the University of Texas in Arlington, where she earned her Bachelor of Commerce with a major in marketing. It was there that she met her husband, Daniel… and, after her graduation in 2004, they decided to return to her hometown, Edmonton. She began working as a corporate programs manager for Cold FX but, once she left for maternity leave, Carol says she knew she wasn’t going to go back. That didn’t mean she was willing to give up her life as a businesswoman. “I looked at various franchises, but I knew I wanted to be at home with my daughter, and I knew I wanted to continue working for myself.” After giving birth to now 22-month-old Madelyn, Carol was able to get into the Capital Health New Moms Network because of a cancellation— her friends weren’t that lucky. So in January 2009, she launched Mommy Connections, a six-week post natal program that shows new moms how to settle into the rhythm of motherhood. The need was clear when almost 70 moms registered for her first program. “For us, the difference between what’s currently available out there and our program is that we really try to bring out modernized, applicable things that moms need to know these days.”
CAROL McBEE
Mompreneur, networker, volunteer Through ads on Kijiji and chatting on Facebook, Carol quickly grew her business from her living room to having program directors in seven locations throughout Alberta and Ontario. Bossy Momma came next in early 2010, and was born out of the need for a network that catered to entrepreneurial women, whether they were new moms or not. “We have a very diverse age group, and not everyone is a new mom. Some are grandmothers and some have children that are grown up and don’t need their full time attention.” But Carol makes one thing clear: The meetings are not time to talk about your children or life as a mother. “At my networking events, you’re not a mom, you’re a businesswoman. We’re here to network… we’re here to grow our businesses and that’s the bottom line.” The 28-year old recently launched a pre-natal program, and is planning Daddy Connections. She makes times for community involvement. She participates in a number of fundraising runs, and chaired Think Pink Week. Carol is a member of Junior League and served on the acquisitions committee for the Stollery Children’s Hospital for three years. Despite her busy life, however, Carol says there is nothing she loves more than spending time with her daughter. Maybe that’s why she is so successful in helping other mothers enjoy their time with their pride and joys. √ ~ Christina Emberley 20
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Building a better i n d u s t r y
T
om Erickson does not mess around. He built his first house at the age of 18. Now six year later, the Certified Master Builder is running a successful construction “watchdog” corporation. A few years ago, while Tom was tuned into HGTV—as usual—he question why nothing was being done about builders and contractors who rip people off. “I was wondering, ‘Why isn’t anyone doing anything about these problems? And, it just kind of popped into my head, ‘Well, why don’t you do something?’” So he did. Tom set off to find local supporters for his vision of a better industry. Although many slammed their doors in his face, Tom persevered and found enough backing to start a website. It generated more cash flow… which led to money for advertising… which led to launching his company in 2008. As the CEO of Quality Control Corporation, Tom operates four subsidiaries that help protect and educate homeowners, buyers and renovators. Under Renovation Watchdogs, Tom will kick any unprofessional worker off your property with a smile on his face, just like his idol Mike Holmes. “There’s nothing better than saying… ‘You’re a scumbag,’” he laughs. And he loves it even more when he gets to do it on camera. Tom had gotten a call from a distraught elderly woman who had paid a contractor $35,000 up front to renovate her basement… the contractor took off, never to be seen again. Her dilemma inspired him to organize Renovation Rescue which aired last March on Global Edmonton; he rallied people from the industry to donate time and supplies, and fix her basement. In the end, the homeowner had a basement worth $70,000 at no cost to her.
TOM ERICKSON Builder, consumer advocate
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
He also runs Watchdog Home Inspections which works with an insurance company to provide a one-year warranty program, something that is unheard of in the inspection world. The other companies are paid programming television segments. Showhome Parade will feature homes for sale around the city; Homes in Mind will showcase a realtor, mortgage broker, renovator and home inspector. Tom also is involved with the Doctors of Tomorrow Program, which sends medical students to Third World countries, and he is a volunteer builder with Habitat for Humanity. There could be change afoot for Tom: “I’ve had some offers to buy the company out. And I’m seriously considering it.” If he does choose to sell, Tom would likely pursue a career in acting and films, either behind or in front of the camera. But Tom knows himself well. “Even if nothing worked out and everything crumbled around me, I’d still come back to building.” √ ~ Christina Emberley 21
Global mindset
Ignites
W
“
hat haven’t you done?” That’s really the only question to ask Justine Barber. She’s put more into her 26 years than most fit into a lifetime: from studying abroad… to monitoring sea turtles for signs of cancer in Costa Rica… to learning French in Quebec and Portuguese in Brazil… to preparing a position paper for the Conflict Prevention Program to be launched at the European Parliament… to working alongside Stephen Mandel and other mayors in an effort to end homelessness in Alberta. Hers is an extensive—and impressive—resumé. While earning her commerce degree at the University of Alberta, Justine spent a semester in Italy, an experience that would spark her passion for volunteering and international issues. “Having gone to Italy by myself... I realized how difficult it is for new students coming to Canada,” she says. Inspired, she became a Peer Leader with the University of Alberta’s International Centre, where she helped students familiarize themselves with Canadian customs, and served as a student ambassador for the business faculty. Internships with various government departments and private firms sparked an interest in just communities with strong economic and political foundations. This took Justine to Belgium for her Master’s in International Conflict Analysis at the University of Kent, Brussels campus. She graduated first in her program, and wrote an award-winning dissertation that explored the mass levels of rape in the Congo.
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
local imaginations
JUSTINE BARBER Urban planner, conflict analyst
Currently, Justine is working for Alberta Housing and Urban Affairs as a senior program planner, homeless cross-ministry initiatives, to implement the province’s 10-year plan to end homelessness, something she says is incredibly rewarding. “When you’re in a room with people working on it, whether it’s an agency or people in government, there’s always this huge conviction that you’re doing the right thing.” And, despite her hectic work schedule, Justine continues to volunteer within her home community. She coordinated Open Your Eyes, a Red Cross working group to stop sexual exploitation in Canada, and was a youth leader for Alberta’s first ever Global Youth Symposium. The marathon runner is a mentor with Big Brothers, Big Sisters, maintains an Urban Eden Community Garden, and is a member of the Downtown Community League, to name a few. One has to wonder what her own 10-year plan looks like. Justine foresees a lot of travel but, for the meantime, she’s content learning new skills here in Canada. “I’ve always been grateful to Edmonton, in life and in my career, and I like being a local in a city that I know.” For Justine, there’s just no place like home. √ ~ Christine Emberley 22
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Riding F
HIGH Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
rank Barry doesn’t know why he felt compelled to ride dirt bikes. Actually, he was so good at it, he was riding at a pro level by the age of 15. That’s not to say his passion didn’t come without a price. In fact, while practicing for his very first race, Frank broke his arm. “That’s how I started my racing career, so I got it out of the way”—or so he thought. In March 2006, Frank’s racing career changed forever. During a training run, he was kicked off his bike and landed head first, simultaneously being crushed by the bike. The local hospital wasn’t equipped to deal with his extensive injuries, so he was transferred to the University of Saskatchewan facility. “I woke up two weeks later in Saskatoon,” Frank remembers. He says the doctors described his insides as mush: collapsed lungs, lacerated liver, fractured vertebrae, internal bleeding, among other injuries. Amazingly, he recovered quickly, and was back on his bike within three months of the accident. “It’s what I love doing but, as soon as I got back on, I knew things would be different.” The Barry family lives near Busby, about 70km northwest of Edmonton, and normally rented a large portion of their land as pasture. When the renter backed out, Frank took action. “The land was just sitting there, so I basically just went out and started making a track,” he says. Based on his vision, Barry’s Ultra Motosport Park—BUMP—started in 2008, and was officially launched in May 2009. Moreover, it would provide Frank a practice track at his doorstep. The successful operation also involves his wife Elisabeth and other family members. Currently there are five tracks, including his own “master track”, one for peewees and a ladies’ beginner track. Frank hopes to make the track national quality. “I just want the biggest facility around that’s open to everyone all the time.” Away from the track, Frank works as a parts technician at Riverside in St. Albert. He got his ticket from NAIT in 2007, using that as another way to be involved in the biking community. BUMP sponsors a local rodeo, as well at the hot lunch program at the elementary school Frank attended. Considering all he has accomplished in his 25 years, Frank obviously has a knack for overcoming obstacles. He just won the provincial championship in September. √ ~ Christine Emberley
FRANK BARRY
Professional Motocross Rider, track designer EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
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NOTHING SHADY ab o u t h is c h a r ac t e r
A
ccording to Landon Croome, he was always making money, any way he could. “I was always the kid with the lemonade stand or a snow shovelling business,” he remembers. When his father was too busy with his plumbing business to capitalize on a side-line in retractable screens, Landon saw an opportunity. He begged his dad to show him how to install the screens and, at the age of 17, Landon began making fliers and handing them out to neighbours. With his determination on high and his 1982 Toyota Celica loaded up, he started on a venture that would take him down a path of success. For years he worked out of his father’s home, but Landon realized he would have to expand his resources if his business were to grow. While studying for his diploma in Business Management at Grant MacEwan College, he was encouraged by his teacher and mentor Lynne Fisher to go after Costco as a client. In 2006, he graduated and he signed an agreement to have his product sold in Costco stores across Canada. The deal enabled Landon to expand, acquiring a distribution centre in Leduc, new products, and staff. He renamed his company from Mainstream Screens to Solaris Products Ltd. in 2007. The real challenge followed when the recession hit and business got harder. Landon had to make a choice. So in 2009 he joined forces with his biggest competitor, Phantom Screens, owned by Tim Houle. Together they created a superstore of sorts…a partnership that created better business and friendship opportunities.
LANDON CROOME Entrepreneur, volunteer
Landon is enjoying sharing the company with someone he respects and considers a true friend. “After years and years of wanting to be a part of Phantom Screens, I finally got it.” They have also opened an office in Grand Prairie. Solaris stocks high-quality screens, shades and umbrellas, and is the exclusive supplier of Phantom Screens to Edmonton and Northern Alberta. At 27, Landon understands the importance of giving back. As a member of Team Solaris, he participated in the MS Bike Tour and helped the team raise $4,000. He also takes on field placement students from Grant MacEwan, considering it a winwin situation. “It forces me o become a teacher and a leader. And giving back is important because I think Grant MacEwan really shaped my outlook on business and my focus.” Overall, Landon credits his business success to having confidence and doing things a little differently than everyone else. “Because I was an underdog it forced me to be creative.” √ ~ Christina Emberley 24
Photo by Bruce Clarke EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
A Taste For
S
Bridal Fashion
her initial nervousness: Novelle Bridal Shop opened in February 2009, among the many boutiques in the 124th Street area. Angel and her staff pride themselves on the experience they give clients. “A lot of girls appreciate the personal feel of the store. We try to only take one appointment at a time.” The store is not exactly traditional. “We’re more trendy, fresh, young and different,” Angel says. “So it’s not for everyone.” Appealing to a niche market has worked for Novelle. To meet client expectations, Angel is expanding her sample inventory to include bridesmaid dresses. She also acquires lines from Chicago and New York on twice-a-year buying trips. Angel generously loans gowns—many of them exclusive to Novelle—to charity fashion shows and events, something she has plans to do a lot more of in the future. The 28-year old is proud of her reputation, stating that “…98 percent of the time, girls who love our store love our service as well.” Obviously, Angel has a true talent for making brides happy, all the while feeding her own happiness as well. √ ~ Christina Emberley
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
ometimes, weddings have a way of changing more than marital status. Sometimes, a trip down the bridal path can turn into a career path. That’s what happened to Angel Chok two years ago when she started shopping for her wedding gown. She knew exactly what she wanted… and how much she could spend. Marrying her vision with the reality of what was available locally proved to be a challenge. Angel opted to return to her native Hong Kong where she had her gown custom-made in less than two weeks for about $1,000—mission accomplished. So, how did this experience change her life? Well… when Angel graduated from the University of Alberta with her Bachelor’s in Nutritional Science in 2006, she joined Jenny Craig as a nutritionist. She admits there were many aspects of the job she enjoyed, but not the attitudes people often had about their body images. “I love working with women and I love helping them… It was just very negative.” Planning her wedding in 2008 unveiled her passion for fashion. Angel quit her job at Jenny Craig to become a consultant at a local bridal shop. She decided she wanted to open a wedding boutique. “I was a little bit hesitant to start my own business because I had absolutely zero experience,” Angel remembers. Her determination and the support of her husband Dustin over-rode
ANGEL CHOK Nutritionist, retailer
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
25
On theCutting-edge Photo by Bruce Clarke
E
ntrepreneurship runs in his family. Keith Bruinsma always knew he would start his own company. “It’s in my blood. It’s in my DNA,” he explains. At the age of 29, he owns and operates Yellowhead Waterjet, which specializes in abrasive jetting technology to cut materials like steel and stone into various products— precision parts, signage, promotional items and even decorative works of art. Keith graduated from NAIT’s business program in 2008, and then achieved his certification in his profession by working in the industry. “That’s my advice to any entrepreneur,” Keith says. “If you want to start a business, go out, find what you like, what you know, and work for someone. Then get ready to jump into 18-hour days.” After being employed by local company for more than three years, he opened Yellowhead Waterjet in July 2008 with start-up funding from his father. He set out marketing his company to local shops. Recognizing that potential customers might be reluctant to give up their existing suppliers, Keith offered lower prices and faster service. Once he landed clients, he impressed them with quality products and excellent customer service to keep them coming back. He also “loves the free stuff” to help market, and found ways to make his business and success known. Keith was one of 10 winners in North America of the 2009 Silver Lining Entrepreneur Awards, and received a trip to Bermuda to network with the other winners and business owners.
KEITH BRUINSMA Business owner, specialist
He has ambitions to expand his business into a total welding machine shop, employing a staff of 20 to 30 people. A lofty goal, but he isn’t worried. “I do something very well and that is how I’m going to grow my business.” Keith volunteers at Operation Red Nose and Santa’s Anonymous. Corporately, he has made a commitment to hire workers from the Bissell Centre, to give them a chance to get back on their feet. But he says he also benefits from their employment. “The quality is really good,” he acknowledges. “They want to come in and they want to work hard.” They’re not the only ones, as Keith is obviously working hard to create a better life for himself, his family, as well as the members of his community. √ ~ Christina Emberley 26
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
MOTIVATED …by loss
Photo by Bruce Clarke
L
isa Belanger is the kind of woman that sees the positive in life. During her first year of Human Kinetics at St. Francis of Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Lisa lost her best friend Jane to Hodgkin’s Lymphoma—a tragedy that prompted her unfailing motivation. Lisa has since raised thousands of dollars for cancer foundations and done invaluable research on the subject. “To lose someone so close to you when you’re 18, and someone your age, is pretty traumatic in itself,” Lisa remembers. Inspired, Lisa started up X Cure, a cancer fundraiser at St. FX that is still in place today. Over the years, she has participated in walks, run a marathon in Paris, shaved her head, and organized numerous events and workshops. Lisa is chair of the Canadian Action Plan for
LISA BELANGER
Doctoral student, cancer researcher, trainer Young Adult Cancer Survivors, and a member of Team in Training for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada. Lisa has dedicated her studies to cancer research. She received her MSc in Physical Education and Recreation from the University of Alberta in 2009, where she focused on exercise and young cancer survivors. Currently working on her doctorate and expecting to graduate in 2013, she and other PhD students are conducting a cancer trial on the effects of physical activity on young adults. Primarily working in a fitness centre at the university, Lisa describes the atmosphere as “…so cool— everyone’s bald, music’s blaring, and we’re just having a great time.” The 25-year old is also a coordinator on a colon cancer trial that is sponsored by the Canadian Cancer Society—the first ever exercise trial to be sponsored. Lisa recently launched Exceed Wellness, a personal trainer/corporate wellness company. She provides in-home training to people who won’t or can’t go to a gym, and works with elite athletes and weight loss clients. Her “Lunch-and-Learns” for businesses focus on workplace wellness and cancer prevention. “It’s been so much fun to start up. I’m having a blast with it.” She relies on her friends for balance, explaining, “They keep me sane, they really do… I think their job in life is to just make me relax. Without them it wouldn’t be possible.” And for everyone out there, young or old, Lisa offers one piece of advice. “Take everything you can from life, because you only get one… and you may as well have an awesome time.” Not surprisingly, Lisa has an uncanny ability to motivate without even trying. √ ~ Christina Emberley EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
27
Flash-drive
diagnostics
C
omputers play a large part in Maziyar Khorasani’s life. In high school, he fixed computers for friends and classmates to make extra money. Now, the 28-year-old is applying his extensive knowledge to create a hand-held laboratory-on-chip that cuts the time for medical test results from days to minutes. After earning his Computer Engineering degree in 2005 from the University of Alberta, Maziyar was offered a grad position. He explored his options and chose to do his Master’s in Electrical Engineering. “I went in and talked to some professors about different grad opportunities, and I found it very interesting.” His studies focused on lab technology and how to miniaturize it for personal care. Before graduating in 2008, he and five fellow students started Ukalta Engineering, a wireless communications company. Maziyar was primarily responsible for marketing, building capital wealth and acquiring nearly $1-million in financing for operations. “Over that year, I did less and less time in engineering and more in business development.” He remembers “…thinking back to the technology I helped develop at the university during my Master’s. For me, that technology had much more potential than what we were doing with Ukalta.” So, he approached former classmate Mohammad Benham, and two of his professors, Chris Backhouse and Duncan Elliott. Together, they formed Biolithic Corporation in January 2009 to develop a palm-sized device that could test bacteria and virus samples onsite with lightning speed, using molecular biology. Their goal is to release the diagnostic product into the hands of doctors within two years, and pharmacies within four to five years. The ability to confirm infection rapidly has the potential to save lives, reduce healthcare costs, and prevent the spread of diseases. As the winners of the 2010 TEC Edmonton Venture Prize, Biolithic received about $90,000 in cash and in-kind services, which the partners are using as leverage to help them pitch possible investors—not an easy sell, according to Maziyar.
MAZIYAR KHORASANI Innovator, VenturePrize winner
“Alberta isn’t a place where money is thrown at medical start-ups. They want to invest in something they have a very good understanding of, so it’s very difficult to launch a company like this.” It’s been a learning experience that Maziyar is willing to share with other young entrepreneurs who are struggling to get their businesses rolling. “If anyone ever comes in and has any questions, I try to advise them on what kinds of funding they can get. “It’s pretty challenging to get funding when there’s no company… there’s no people… and all you have is an idea.” √ ~ Christina Emberley
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
28
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Tasty… in any language
O
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
ne would think that after working in her father’s Indian restaurant throughout her teens, Joti Tung would have wanted a change. Not so. “Since I was 18, I had been bugging my dad, ‘I want to open a restaurant… I want to open a restaurant,’” Joti recalls. But her father encouraged her to try something different. So Joti went to the University of Alberta, acquired her International Business degree in 2006, and worked in that field for a short while. It simply wasn’t what she wanted. Again, she appealed to her father for support. “One day he just said, ‘OK, pick a spot.’” Joti says. Thus, Zaika—an Indian word meaning ‘tasty’—was born. Located on the south side of Edmonton, Joti’s fantasy of a sleek, modern twist on the traditional Indian restaurant is a reality… in living colour. And it is bright. Decorated by her husband and business partner Shawn, the bistro bar is adorned with black leather booths, sparkling tile, and two striking photos of Joti’s exotically decorated eyes and lips hanging from the walls. Certainly not what a traditional Indian restaurant would look like, but exactly what they wanted. “We didn’t want to go to other restaurants to see what they were doing… we wanted to see what they were not doing,” Joti explains.
JOTI TUNG
Restaurateur, trend setter “Everyone’s got to start taking lessons from here—we need to liven up the industry.” Since opening in September 2009, there have been many people who didn’t believe in Zaika. Despite negative comments about their ability to run a restaurant, Joti and Shawn just held their heads high. “They start trusting you the more you trust yourself… your ability and your passion for it just kind of shows,” Joti says. With Zaika’s first anniversary under their belts, Joti has even more plans to improve their lives, as well as their restaurant. They’ll introduce their own brand of wine in the near future, and a food-related book about her experiences. The 27-year old makes time to be involved in Big Brothers, Big Sisters, where she mentors a young girl, and the Good Samaritan Society. Travel is on their to-do list but for now their focus is on Zaika, a passion that has only grown. Joti is determined to turn those naysayers into regular customers. “It just takes time. You put out great food and a great atmosphere and people will come in and say, ‘OK, these kids know what they’re doing.’” √ ~ Christina Emberley EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
29
Making his Mark Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
M
ark Holowaychuk loves money. Always has… always will. While most children were busy trading cards and playing Pogs, Mark was selling cards and investing in GICs. While many guys in their 20s were playing video games in their basements, Mark was building an on-line business from his. “I love the idea of a passive income,” he admits. He also loves health and nutrition, so at the tender age of 22, Mark decided to fuse his two passions to create Vitamart.ca, an on-line health, supplement and nutrition store. Employed by World Health at the time, Mark would stuff boxes and pack orders before work at the gym, on his lunch break and after his shift—no matter how exhausted he was. Attending to his clients was crucial: Customer service was—and still is—his number one priority. “That is my entire business philosophy, and it is what my entire enterprise is built on.” For months, that was his daily routine. But the stress of two demanding jobs became too much, so in a leap of faith Mark quit his job at World Health to devote all his energy to his dream. The hard times weren’t over quite yet, however, as the new business-owner started to miss basic human interaction. “There were times I wouldn’t leave my house for days,” Mark recalls.
MARK HOLOWAYCHUK On-line retailer, product developer
“I started to get really depressed.” But he had a vision, and through perseverance and hard work, it all paid off: Vitamart.ca is now the largest on-line only health and supplement store in Canada. This Grant MacEwan graduate, with an applied degree in International Marketing and Supply Chain Management, grew his company from $1000 in sales to a million-dollar corporation in five years. Mark also launched several other projects. He founded Edmonton Internet Millions Mastermind Group, a monthly get-together for local internet entrepreneurs… co-founded PerfectShakers.com, a store of promotional shaker cups and vitamin container, geared toward gyms and studios… and just launched VitaHub.com, which allows anyone to have their own online-health store. Being financially secure affords Mark the opportunity to move to Las Vegas for the upcoming winter months. His goal is to expand his evergrowing enterprise into the United States—more comfortable from a poolside cabana than a basement, for sure. Oh, he’ll also be organizing VitaCruise for like-minded people who are passionate about the health industry. Clearly, there is no end to Mark’s ideas or ambition. It’s not every day you meet someone who launched a retail empire in his pyjamas. √ ~ Christina Emberley 30
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Over-achiever Photo by Bruce Clarke
Z
iyah Karmali is a self-proclaimed social butterfly. That’s not a bad attribute when you’re Miss Edmonton 2010 and a finalist for Miss World Canada, who is also fully bilingual, academically accomplished and multi-talented. After graduating with her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Alberta in 2009 and completing her practicum, Ziyah signed a one-year contract to teach French immersion to a grade five class in Spruce Grove. Although the commute is long, the 23-year old is more than excited about her job. “I have a passion for kids,” Ziyah says. “It’s deep rooted inside of me.” Because of her outstanding academic achievements, Ziyah received a full scholarship to pursue her Master’s in Education, which she plans to complete sometime in the next two years. Being keenly interested in journalism, she co-hosts Bollywood News weekly on the Asian Television Network, and contributes to Shave Magazine. “It’s something that I really enjoy. I don’t have time to watch movies or keep up with gossip, so it keeps me up-to-date”” But Ziyah’s greatest motivator is giving back to the community, something she values above all else. “Essentially, I am who I am because of my community.”
ZIYAH KARMALI Teacher, model, volunteer
Among others, she volunteers at Goodwill and as a computer camp counsellor. She and her mom have participated in the Mother Daughter Walk for the Heart and Stroke Foundation the past nine years. Ziyah spear-headed a fundraiser with Mayor Stephen Mandel, former Oiler Georges Laraque and the Edmonton Eskimos that raised over $6,000 for the Variety Children’s Charity, and she is developing a lunch program for underprivileged children. In whatever spare time she does have, Ziyah likes to model—a hobby she was basically thrown into. It all started when friends nominated her for Miss Edmonton Indy, which she won… followed by being crowned Miss Edmonton 2010… and numerous print and television assignments. “I’m not exactly the mould. I don’t exactly fit the stereotype,” Ziyah admits. But she hopes to pass the meaning of that accomplishment on to her students. “I want to show them that even if you’re not the tallest or blondest girl out there, if that’s your dream, chase it.” Ziyah sings… she dances… she acts… she plays soccer and the piano—Royal Conservatory of Music level 7, of course. She’s definitely not someone who holds back. “I’m the girl who makes herself known,” Ziyah proclaims proudly. Indeed. √ ~ Christina Emberley EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
31
PETPROJECT
K
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
ristine Aanderson found a way to develop a career and volunteer programs around healing with pets. The 29-year-old owner of Aanderson Animal Assisted Counselling and mom to two-year-old daughter Valkyrie likes to keep busy. “I have always been an animal nut,” Kristine laughs. “I was so excited when I started my Bachelor’s degree to discover that there was a profession that had animals helping people.” Since graduating from Athabasca University with the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2006, Kristine went on to receive her Master’s in Counselling from Yorkville University, and a certificate in Post-Combat Behavioural Health from Alliant International University in 2009, and became a registered provisional psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists in 2010. Her practice, opened in 2009, provides traditional therapy as well as specialized services like binge eating treatment. What sets her apart is her use of a therapy dog and cat—named Pippin and Roger—to help put clients at ease.
KRISTINE AANDERSON Psychologist, animal-assisted therapist
Kristine also collaborated as the project manager with the Government of Alberta to develop a pilot program that certifies owner-trained service dogs for people with mental disabilities to help them deal with their illness and become reintegrated in society. Hope Heels launched last year and has two main components: Psychiatric Service Dogs helps patients by alerting them to outof-control emotions, lowering the severity of anxiety attacks, reminding them to take medication and much more. The Bravo K9 program caters specifically to war veterans or service members who have symptoms of Operational Stress Injury or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. “Things they wouldn’t do for themselves, they have to do for the dogs,” Kristine explains. “So they’ll start to reintegrate with their life and start to do those things like going to the movies or grocery shopping again.” Her demo dog Vimy has set the standard for other service dogs to be trained in both sectors of Hope Heels. Participants can keep the trained dogs for themselves or place them with others. No stranger to training herself, Kristine has received education in more than 14 different areas associated with her work. “Whenever I see a need that has to be addressed, and I think I have the knowledge and skill set to address it, I just say, ‘Let’s get started!’” In 2008, she published a book with the Chimo Project, called Paws on Purpose, showcasing the benefits of animal-assisted therapy, and authored two research articles. Kristine’s volunteer activities include dedicating about 15 hours per week to Hope Heels, counselling with The Support Network, and serving on the board of the Canadian Fallen Heroes Foundation. Kristine says she always works in five-year chunks; her current mission is to grow her business, and her family. “I don’t suppose to guess what I’m going to be doing in five years. But I know I’m going to love it and I know it’s going to be fun.” √ ~ Christine Emberley 32
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
An original approach
G
to success
rowing up on a farm near Eckville, Alberta., Gregory Bott probably never expected he would be where he is today. The 27-year old has received over $50,000 in scholarships and funding, and embarked on two very successful business ventures. In 2001, he enrolled in the Business Management program at Red Deer College, where he met his now business partner Shaun Anderson. After two years, both transferred to the University of Alberta’s Commerce program. Upon graduation in 2006, they invested in rental and “flip” properties: six in Edmonton, and two in Sarnia, Ontario. They decided to opt out of those investments in 2008. “Luckily, we recognized what was coming, and decided to transfer the equity that we’d gained in real estate into restaurants,” Gregory says. Despite their lack of restaurant experience, they chose to invest in an Original Joe’s in Okotoks, and later in Sherwood Park. “We just recognized that they had a great concept that really worked, and the existing ones were very profitable,” Gregory remembers. “More importantly, it was a great team that was backing the brand.” The Original Joe’s franchisee support package includes operating systems, purchasing power and guidelines. And, it is with that team the partners will be expanding their casual dining operations, having recently signed a joint venture with head office
in Calgary to open a number of new locations. All this is in the works while Gregory is earning his Master’s in Agricultural and Resource Economics. He has presented his research on customer-driven food chains at conferences in Canada and Australia. He was the student member of the Alberta Agriculture and Food Council from 2009-2010, and his team of graduate students won second place in the American Agricultural Economic Association 2009 Graduate Student Case Study Competition. Gregory was a sessional lecturer for the Department of Rural Economy last semester, and has been invited to speak to other classes and government officials. Gregory received his pilot’s license in 2008, and was recently appointed by the City of Red Deer to the board of the Regional Airport Authority. And, he’s back into real estate investment, having acquired seven properties.
GREGORY BOTT
Restaurateur, agri-food expert, pilot Gregory is co-organizer of the Annual Motorcycle Ride for KidSport, and sponsors other community events. Original Joe’s raises money for and provides financial support to several local charities. “Since we’ve opened in Sherwood Park, we’ve given more to the community than taken out,” Gregory says. “I think it’s just good business.” √ ~ Christina Emberley
Photo by Bruce Clarke EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
33
Poster Girl for Balance E
Photo by Tracy Kolenchuk
rin Radke-Hall grew up on a grain farm in Northern Alberta where community pride was a given. Because her parents were so active in nearby Bonanza and the surrounding area, she is no stranger to being involved. “I learned to volunteer and give back to the community at a very young age,” Erin says. Now, at 29, the tradition continues. In fact, she could be a poster girl for achieving work/life balance. Erin is a wife, mother to three-year old daughter Quinn, successful business woman, and active member of Edmonton’s community. Beyond her responsibilities as a chartered accountant with KPMG, she is the Director of Training for Junior Chamber International (JCI) Edmonton, an organization of motivated individuals between the ages of 18 and 40 who want to network and “be better”. She has been treasurer of JCI Canada since 2006, and sits on the board for the national convention. Erin says she’s so passionate about the organization because it teaches you skills you can’t learn at a firm or institution, and the enthusiastic nature of its members keeps her coming back. “To be around people who are positive and want to do positive things, makes you more positive.” Erin joined JCI in Prince George, BC, while she was studying Accounting Finance at the College of New Caledonia. She was the second female member of that chapter, and eventually became president in 2006. Seven years after graduating college, Erin moved to Edmonton in 2009 to broaden her horizons. She is now in charge of the training and leadership opportunities at JCI Edmonton, and teaches a class on how to be a confident speaker.
ERIN RADKE-HALL Chartered Accountant, JCI volunteer
She also acts as a mentor to professionals in Edmonton, giving them advice on how to grow themselves as business people and individuals in general, a struggle sometimes. Erin believes communicating effectively and understanding others breaks down barriers. For her, mentoring is a way of saying “thanks” to those who did the same for her. “The best way to return the favour is to do the same for someone else,” Erin advises. So how does she juggle work, family and volunteering? Erin acknowledges there are two factors that help her keep it all together: her husband, Oran, and an extra-large calendar. “I couldn’t do it without either of them,” she chuckles. √ ~ Christina Emberley
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EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
GRAND SLAM
Career Choice
A
s a top 10 tennis player in Moscow, Andrei Metelitsa had to decide whether to quit school and follow his passion… or to quit tennis and follow a career. “In Russia, unlike North America, you have to make a decision very early in terms of your athletic career,” Andrei explains. So, he chose the career route. He was 12 years old. Two years later, his parents—both physicians—moved to Alberta in 1995 to give him better opportunities. Andrei graduated medical school at the age of 23 from the University of Alberta in 2005, and completed his five-year dermatology residency in June. “To me, dermatology was the funnest career path because it offered so many options,” Andrei explains. His accomplishments are many. Andrei published a textbook—Stedman’s Illustrated Dictionary of Dermatology Eponyms—by the age of 23, and authored a number of articles for 20 scientific publications. He has made presentations, primarily on skin cancer, at more than 40 national and international conferences. No stranger to recognition, Andrei has received over 30 awards and scholarships including the Alumni Award of Excellence from the University of Alberta in 2010. He is winner of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Review Article Incentive Program, among other .He was chosen by the faculty to be the Chief Dermatology Resident, and has since been named the American Academy of Dermatology Resident Liaison for 2010. Now, at the age of 29, Andrei is a Canadian Board Certified Dermatologist. Currently, he is completing a fellowship in Boston with SkinCare Physicians, with four world-renowned professors from Harvard and Yale, studying laser treatments for cosmetic surgery and skin cancers. His clients include high-profile politicians and celebrities. During his stay, he is serving as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Tufts University School of Medicine. But Andrei says all his research, studying and efforts are not hassles for him. “Because I was able to choose a career that I really love, going to work for me was more like fun.”
ANDREI METELITSA Certified dermatologist, Fellowship student
Andrei is committed to his community and Canada as a whole. He volunteers in nationwide skin cancer screening, sits on boards for sunscreens and sun awareness, including the National Sun Awareness Campaign with the Canadian Dermatology Association. He was a small group instructor for three years and an admissions interviewer. He was inducted into the American Academy of Dermatology Leadership Circle of Volunteerism. His plans for the future include working parttime at the University of Alberta and opening a private practice. Although he loves the work he is doing in Boston, and has received many offers to stay in the United States, Andrei says he can’t wait to come back to Alberta, a place he truly considers home. √ ~ Christina Emberley EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Photo by Ian Jackson 35
Raising the Bar I
was more than excited to be selected to write the profiles for the Edmontonians 2010 Sizzling Twenty under 30. It was my first “real” job as a new journalism graduate from Grant MacEwan University. Originally, I had been booked to do the profiles as my internship, but when the magazine suspended publishing in June, those plans changed. Things got brighter, however, when I received a call from Editor Barb Deters saying the magazine would resume with this Sizzling signature edition. And so here we are. It’s all over and I can’t even express how much I have learned from this experience. When I first started reading the nomination forms for the finalists, I was astounded. As someone who was juggling school, work, volunteering and life in general, I thought I was busy. My life was like lounging on a beach compared to these people. These Sizzlers started their own businesses, bought existing businesses, created programs, and raised thousands of dollars for charity—all before blowing out 30 candles on their birthday cakes. Their accomplishments greatly changed my views.
CHRISTINA EMBERLEY
Photo by Bruce Clarke
Profiler
36
Honestly, before this assignment, I was not a believer. I did not like Edmonton, or journalism for that matter. But, since meeting all of these amazing people, I have acquired a new appreciation for this city and my profession. I had the opportunity to see that journalism isn’t just about car crashes and politics; it can be about realizing the remarkable people in the world and sharing their stories. The Sizzlers have shown me how much room there is to grow in local business—no matter what you wanted to do—and given me a new perspective on my career. They see the potential that lives here, not only in the business sector, but also in growing the community—something I am so happy to have been able to share with readers. After this project, I’ve decided to cancel my plans to move to Ontario for school. Instead, I will be continuing my education in Political Science at the University of Alberta next year. The biggest thing I got out of this experience, however, is motivation. I honestly came back from certain interviews high almost, ready to volunteer and make a difference. No matter how busy Sizzlers’ lives are, their priority is others… they try to give as much as they gain. I have had an amazing time meeting the 2010 Sizzlers and I hope to one day reach the bar they have set, maybe even raise it a little higher. √ ~ Christine Emberley EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
Global Edmonton co-anchors Lynda Steele and Gord Steinke posed with Dawna Friesen for localized spots that will promote her national newscasts.
PRIMED for primetime
By Drake McHugh
S
he is the quintessential Canadian. Her story is the stuff of novels: Farm girl from Manitoba works hard to become a news correspondent… makes it… then becomes a foreign correspondent for an American network… finally returning victorious to Canada to take up the prime hot position for a national television network. Could be a good Monday night movie. Instead, it is just a snapshot of the life story of Dawna Friesen, the new host of Global National, the TV network’s primetime news program. In fact, she is the first female news anchor for a national primetime newscast in English Canada. When Friesen visited here in September, Edmontonians was invited to Global’s inhouse meet-and-greet, including alone time for an exclusive interview. Friesen just wrapped up 11 years as a foreign correspondent and anchor for NBC News, based in London, England. Also appearing on The Today Show and MSNBC, she travelled extensively to cover major international news stories, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. One can imagine it wasn’t all good times while Saddam Hussein was still in power. Friesen spend time in Iraq, followed by EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
several months in neighbouring Egypt and Jordan in the lead up to the war. She returned after the American-led attack on Iraq to report extensively on the country’s slow descent into chaos. Friesen spent months in Pakistan, travelling to the tribal territories, covering the kidnapping and murder of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Peal in Karachi. She was in Belgrade after the fall of Slbodan Milosevic and spent time in Russia covering the siege of a theatre by Chechnyan rebels in 2002, the Beslan school massacre in 2004, and the train bombings in Madrid, also in 2004. The list goes on… suffice it to say she has done an eclectic mix of feature stories all over Europe and the Middle East, including inside coverage of every election in Britain in the past decade. She was part of the NBC team covering the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. Oh, by the way, she won an Emmy Award for her part in NBC’s coverage of the night Barak Obama was elected president of the United States. Prior to joining NBC, Friesen was a national reporter for CTV News in Toronto and back-up anchor on Canada AM. In addition, she served as a parliamentary reporter in the CTV Ottawa bureau, and as a reporter and anchor for CBC-TV in Vancouver.
GRASSROOTS BEGINNINGS
Born in Winnipeg, Friesen grew up on a Manitoba grain farm, and graduated with a degree in communications from Red River College. She began her journalism career in 1985 at a newspaper in Portage la Prairie before moving on to radio and television in Brandon, Saskatoon, Thunder Bay and Winnipeg. In 1993, she received a Southam Fellowship for Journalists from the University of Toronto and, in 2009, The Distinguished Alumni Award from Red River College. She still remembers the ‘80s in smaller markets as wonderful training. “Had they been larger markets, I wouldn’t have got the training I did immediately. I learned to do everything. My father used to say I have ants in my pants,” she laughs. Friesen looks younger than her 46 years and a tough promotional tour would lead you to suspect. Edmonton is the last of her promotional tour that has taken her to Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary and Winnipeg before flying home to Vancouver. Indeed, the marketing of the Friesen brand is news in Canada. Promoting her spans radio and newspaper ads, transit shelters and billboards, plus eight 30-second TV spots that will be rolled out on Global over the next few months. Common in America but not seen much in Canada. 37
Part of the Global Edmonton news team: reporter Linda Nguyen, assignment editor Kory Siegers, producer Christine Meadows, reporter Laurel Clark, weekend anchor Erin Chalmers, and reporter Kendra Slugoski.
Gord donned these heels the next day for the “Walk a Mile in her Shoes” fundraiser for the YWCA Family Violence Prevention program.
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NorQuest College now offers weekend courses downtown! Call 780 - 644 - 6480 2 Year diploma available norquest.ca/cfe/printmedia/parttime_classes.asp 38
Gord and Lynda shared a laugh with Dawna as they prepared to pose
Rhonda Halarewich, manager of creative services, with HR manager Fraser Hiltz, communications coordinator Ashley Warnock, and News Hour Final anchor Christina Salvo. Is seeing herself larger than life on a billboard embarrassing to this Canadian? “It feels odd. I’ve never seen myself as a billboard before,” she admits, “and my friends make fun of that, but I’m no public relations expert. It’s a bit daunting… I’ll leave that to the people who know a lot more about that part of the business than I do.” Fine, then if we went to a cocktail party together would she regale me with tales of daring-do in world journalism? She chuckles. “Not really,” she says disarmingly, “I’m more of a listener than a talker.”
INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCES
And the issue of women as news anchors? “I suppose what I would say is that I don’t think I’d be where I am because I’m a woman, I’m here because somebody thinks I’m very good at what I do. And, because I have a great deal of experience in Canada and abroad… that helps you grasp the significance of things and to pass the information on. Anchors or not, I’ve always admired Barbara Frum and Mary Lou Finley, Ann Medina, and Kate Adie in Great Britain.” So, what differences does she find coming home to Canada? “Honestly, after so long in London, I’m impressed with how polite and friendly people are. It’s not just a cliché.” And what’s changed? “Oh my,” Friesen ponders, “absolutely everything. As news anchors, no one can pretend we have the influence we used to have. People get their news from so many sources today, so many different sources—cheeky and flippant and not terribly deep. It’s a natural progression. News anchors are dinosaurs EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
News Hour producer Darcy Craig had a chance to speak with Dawna… that’s Troy Reid, Senior VP of Global News & Current Affairs in the background.
Dawna was welcomed by general manager Tim Spelliscy.
Photos by Bruce Clarke
Reporter Laurel Clark chats with Dawna.
but, hopefully, we can leave some good skeletons behind. “We have one million viewers and that’s significant. We have more women than men—and a younger audience than the other national stations… more viewers between 18 and 54 than the others. My goal is a young and hip, fasterpaced show. We’re on earlier—that helps. One of my goals in life has been not to be on a bus, seeing and doing what everybody else is seeing and doing.” Friesen says, too, there is a difference between Canadian and American news. “America is more insular. That’s not a slur. That reflects who they are in the world, whereas Canadians are more interested in the rest of the world. The two countries see themselves very differently.” Any advice for young journalists? “I don’t subscribe to formulae. I worked bloody hard and did my utmost. I would say ‘find yourself a mentor and be self-critical’. On the other hand,” she says with an easy laugh, “life is separate from work… I’m looking forward to doing things with our son Lucas—who is five—that we couldn’t do in London, skiing for instance.” For those who don’t know, she is married to Tom Kennedy who works for CTV in London, and they are still working out how to do the commute. So, what is she telling her colleagues in Edmonton? “I sat down and looked at the major national newscasts and I think Global’s is best. That’s what I’m telling them. They do a fantastic job in this market. The operation is small and nimble and there are not layers of bureaucracy. They are doing wonders with new technologies. I’m telling them to be proud.” Friesen concludes, “They do a very good job for the Edmonton viewer.” √ EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
39
ABSOLUTEBODO
40
UnCANny Clock
This whimsical piece is timely for any kitchen. Ask a local restaurant to save you a large tin if you don’t normally purchase canned goods in such large containers. Cost Time $10–15 2–3 hours Materials • Large tin • Pendulum clock movement (available at hobby or craft stores) • Small, lightweight wire whisk • Novelty clock hands (available at craft stores, optional) • Wood paint stir stick • Double-sided tape
Photos by Akemi Matsubuchi
I
t begins with subtle changes. Skies are deeper blue, nights are crisp and clear. Autumn takes her final walk down the runway in the season’s hottest palette as a wicked wind disrobes her, leaf by leaf. A few lingering geese banter about last minute travel plans to their winter sojourn, honks echoing in the distance. The scent of winter is heavy—a sure sign that Jack Frost is moving in. Burning leaves colour the air with thoughts of preparing for the cold months ahead; canning, preserving and preparing the pantry for hearty comfort food to warm the soul. You shiver and wrap your sweater closer about you, then head inside to warm by the fire. The revival of heirloom agriculture, gourmet preserves and conserving fresh food in season has contributed to a renewed interest in canning and preserving—the ultimate urbanite hobby. We anticipate a rush of primal satisfaction, savings of cool hard cash and a home filled with delicious aromas as beets, beans and berries are boiled and brewed to perfection. The same can be said for DIY, where the emphasis on the home and all things domestic has made us hungry for items touched by human hands, handcrafted with charming imperfections, rare in value. Canning isn’t a practice solely relegated to the kitchen. If you have been saving cans or tins for recycling, consider repurposing them into domicile decorations. These projects promote a ‘small batch’ principle, easily accomplished in an afternoon—perfect for those with hectic lifestyles and little free time.
with Linda Bodo
Tools Drill, 11/32” drill bit Wire cutters Handsaw Tape measure Marker Scissors Goggles Step-by-Steps 1. Drill 11/32” hole in centre front of can for clock movement. 2. Cut stir stick to fit between top and bottom lips of can. Fix to back of can with double-sided tape. (Stir stick will prevent clock from wobbling when pendulum is swinging.) 3. Drill 11/32” hole through wood and can, approximately 1” down from top (for suspension). 4. Place two strips of double-sided tape on front of clock movement. Attach movement according to package instructions. Replace hands with novelty set, if desired. 5. Pull out looped end of whisk from coiled neck to create a hook and attach to pendulum latch. EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
CANdle Power
Mismatched spoons can create a souper pendant. This inexpensive light is perfect for small spaces and tight budgets—the ideal solution for college dorms or a first apartment. Cost Time $5–10 3–4 hours Materials • Large can • Hanging lamp kit • Variety of spoons
CANapes
These squirrel-proof feeders are the ultimate recycling project for discarded tuna tins and meat renderings. They are perfect for attracting smaller birds into your yard during winter. Cost Time $1 15 minutes Materials • Selection of small, wide tins (e.g., tuna) • Coat hanger • Chopstick • Beef, pork or chicken rendering Bird seed or dried fruit and nuts • Metal ornament, holes drilled top and bottom for suspension (optional) • Electrical tape
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
• Printed labels • Floral wire or 24-gauge wire Tools Drill, 1/16” and 1/2” drill bits Wire cutters Double-sided tape Scissors Tape measure Marker Goggles Step-by-Steps 1. Scan or computer-generate a soup label, sized to cover can. Print in two sections, if necessary, and adhere together with double-sided tape.
Tools Awl Wire cutters Pliers Step-by-Steps 1. Cut coat hanger into 6” lengths. Fashion a hook at one end of each length. 2. Puncture side of tin with awl and insert hanger. Bend inside end of hanger to secure. Cover hole with electrical tape to prevent heated rendering from leaking until it has set. If using a metal ornament detail on hanger, cut wire into two 3” lengths and wire ornament onto tin. 3. Melt rendering and mix with sunflower
Laminate for durability, if desired, and trim to size. 2. Drill 1/2” hole at centre top of can and several 1/16” holes around centre for ventilation. 3. Drill 1/16” holes around bottom circumference of can and through handle of each spoon. 4. Install lamp kit according to package instructions. 5. Adhere label to can with double-sided tape. 6. Wire spoons to bottom of can.
seeds, dried fruit and/or nuts in a oneto-one ratio. Pour into prepared tins on a plate lined with paper towel. Freeze until set. 4. Keep frozen until ready to use. Hang outside when birds need a snack on a chilly day. Cut chopstick to length and insert into feeder for a perch. √ Author and columnist Linda Bodo typifies the ultimate upcycler; and do-ityourselfer. She inspires DIY virgins and aficionados alike to repurpose, recycle, and redefine leisure time by transforming trash into posh accessories. Contact: lbodo@edmontonians.com www.absolutebodo.com
41
Preserving a taste
MENUMAGIC
of the past
A
bout two weeks after Labour Day, I looked skyward to an incredible sound. Close to two dozen geese were flying directly overhead, in formation, and heading south—heralding their departure with that haunting call for other geese to join them. As I looked down the block, two trees had already turned a brilliant yellow. Fall came early. For me, the only thing missing was an incredible aroma of the Berry family fruit relish, simmering on the stove… a sure sign the harvest was in and fall had arrived. Now that Mom has passed, my wife Mirna occasionally whips up a batch. I stand by teary eyed, reliving old stories of my childhood. Our 19-year old daughter, Ashley, chuckles at how emotional I get over a very humble fruit chutney.
what’s going into this,” says Rona. She donates regularly to the Good Shepherd Catholic Church fall fair, the Alberta Avenue Christmas and Bake Sale, the Royal Alexandra Hospital Home Grown Christmas Craft Fair. She figures she’ll do at least 120 jars to donate, not counting her own items including diabetic jellies. Then there’s 28-year old Jackie Jeffrey who is following in her mother’s foot steps. She lives with her husband Jeremy on a farm near Holden. You might recognize the name and voice from helicopter traffic reports on CHED and Global TV.
Jackie gro ws whatev er she can.. .
with chef John Berry RONA’S SWEET ONION PICKLES:
4 Quarts Onions sliced 1/2 bag of ice 1/3 Cup Salt 3 Cups Vinegar 5 Cups Sugar 1 1/2 tsp Turmeric 1 1/2 tsp Celery Seed 1/ 2 tsp Allspice 1/2 tsp Ground Cloves • Peel and slice onions. • Sprinkle salt over onions. Mix ice throughout and let stand three hours. Drain. • In a large saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar and spices. • Add onions and heat until onions absorb the color of the pickling liquid. DO NOT BOIL. • Put in regular-sized glass sealing jars and seal. Listen for the lids to pop. If they don’t, they can be eaten and held in the fridge for up to a week. Yield: 1 case of regular sized sealing jars.
BEN’S EASY PICKLED BEETS ns… res the onio Rona prepa Rona Newcombe knows what I’m talking about. She lives and breathes food. What she didn’t learn from her mother on the farm, she picked-up along the way. At 76, the retired teacher spends most of her time cooking to help others. Her passion is preserving. And her wares are in high demand. Little wonder. Preserving and canning is a dying art, one that seems to have gotten lost with the last generation. Rona fears that “…in another generation or two, (people) won’t know how to cook.” I’m amazed at people who say it’s easier to buy it at the store. True enough but store bought, while good, does not even compare in taste and texture to home grown and homemade. “Some of the stuff you buy says low fat and low sodium, when in fact it’s not. At least I know 42
She’s growing virtually everything she can, and then preserving it. She’s after the complete gardening experience. “I look at it this way. Why pay good dollars for foods from the store, ie: imported pickle relish… when you don’t know how it’s made and, in some cases, where it comes from.” Another reason Jackie likes to preserve? She uses mason jars. “It’s not in cans, it’s not in plastics, and there’s no chance of toxins or anything leeching into the food.” She’s afraid a lot of people today just run to the store because of the convenience. “It’s a lot of hard work and this turns some people off. For me and my husband, it’s time together and we reap the rewards. It’s interesting to see what you can do if you put your time into it.” Here’s hoping more people like Jackie take up this dying culinary art form. Because other than farmer’s markets and special bake sales, you can’t find good quality goods like this anymore.
Jackie shared her neighbour’s recipe: 8 Quarts Beets 4 Cups White Vinegar 4 Cups Sugar 1 tsp Pickling Spice
• Scrub beets and cut beet greens off to about 1”. • Boil beets whole to avoid bleeding. Boil until tender. • Remove from water. Cut off stems and remove skins. Cut into pieces. • In a large saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar and pickling spice (tied in a cheesecloth baggy) with cut beets. Boil for 30 minutes on medium heat. • Add beet mixture into heated mason jars. • Seal jars and put in canner. Boil for 30 minutes. • Remove and store upright. Yield: 6-500mL jars √ Contact Chef John Berry at jberry@edmontonians.com EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
CIVICBUZZ
I
Issues linger on t seems that Edmonton is
almost always poised on the brink of some event or decision that will shape the future of the city. Edmonton’s new City Council will have to deal with some interesting, not to say contentious, issues as it settles into its three-year term after the October elections. While there is no doubt that all large cities face issues that seem to be subject to endless debate, officially and unofficially, Edmonton seems to have more than its share of them.
One of the longest-standing—and
certainly among the most contentious— matters, the future of the Edmonton City Centre Airport, was the subject of an aggressive petition drive by Envision Edmonton to force a plebiscite in the October election. In the end, City Council rejected the petition: a count by City staff revealed too few valid signatures. Furthermore, the provincial Municipal Government Act clearly states that any petition to overturn a City Council decision must be commenced within 60 days of that decision being made. In this case, EE’s petition launch wasn’t even close, coming a year after Council’s decision to close the airport. Still, the City spent $150,000 verifying the petition’s 92,000+ signatures. One has to wonder why the effort—with the ensuing cost— was undertaken, since the MGA is so clear in its wording. There’s fault on both sides here but, most important of all, is deciding the issue once and for all. In the end, Council reaffirmed its July 2009 decision, meaning the closure is still slated to go ahead, and one runway has already been closed. Still, at least two mayoral candidates and several City Council candidates focus on keeping the airport open as a campaign issue. Personally, I have long-favoured looking to the future instead of the past, and see the potential for the land as virtually unlimited, especially since five of the world’s most respected architectural/ planning firms have been selected to submit master plans. The fabled history of the downtown airport will live on, as it should—ably assisted in this regard by the Alberta Aviation Museum. But, it is time to turn the page and let a new era begin. EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
City Council will also have to deal
with an issue that potentially will change the face of downtown Edmonton as much as the decision about the airport’s future. The Katz Group’s arena proposal, quietly simmering in the background over the past several months, will come to the fore again after the election. This is a huge issue and has to be done right. Of course, “doing it right” has many points of view. As many have pointed out, the new arena – or ‘entertainment district’ – isn’t just about the Edmonton Oilers hockey club. The proposed venue will cater to all types of entertainment and recreation, from concerts to conventions and everything in between. The major stumbling block, among others, is who will pay for what. The Katz Group has said it will fund $100 million of the new arena costs, as well as another $100 million for new building construction in the immediate vicinity. And it is looking for some form of public funding as well. There is also talk of federal support for new sports venues across the country, spurred on by talk of a possible federal contribution to a new arena in Quebec City. The provincial government, meanwhile, remains adamant that it will not contribute funds directly toward new arenas in either Edmonton or Calgary. I think this is the right approach, though I wouldn’t be surprised if the government might support related infrastructure projects like LRT or neighbourhood improvements. We shall see. Another fly in the downtown arena ointment is the role, if any, that Northlands might play. Rexall Place remains a viable sports venue in many respects, but does need renovations and upgrading. And any upgrade, according to most in the know, will not bring Rexall up to NHL expectations, especially with respect to capacity. Already one of the smallest arenas in the NHL, Rexall would almost surely have to shrink even more to provide wider concourse areas and more luxury boxes. Yet Rexall Place is an important source of revenue for Northlands – it is one of the busiest concert venues in North America, and almost certainly its role as such would be dramatically reduced when and if a new downtown arena is built. At the same time, it might well be a suitable venue for smaller concerts and events, especially of it is renovated to be smaller and more intimate. A number of people have suggested that
Northlands’ overall role be rewith David Norwood examined with respect to any new arena. One suggestion that makes total sense to me, and others, is leaving Northlands out of the arena operation altogether, but give it control of the Shaw Conference Centre, which it could operate in tandem with the Edmonton Expo Centre. At this point, the venues do compete for some events but, working together, the two convention/ exhibition centres could complement each other, and provide Northlands with an additional revenue stream. In my view, this pairing would also leave the Edmonton Economic Development Corporation with more time to focus on business development in all its aspects (which is not to say it has not performed this task well in the current context), and give Northlands the flexibility of operating two complementary venues. This makes even more sense in the context of the expressed need for expansion of the Shaw: Northlands could explore whatever synergies exist between the Shaw and the Edmonton Expo Centre and plan any expansion appropriately. Obviously, many details would have to be worked out, but the suggestion should be given some serious thought.
Another issue the new City Council
will have to face is LRT expansion. Under the leadership of Mayor Stephen Mandel—who I believe will win another term—Council and the City have laid out aggressive plans for expanding LRT from downtown west to Lewis Estates, and south to Mill Woods Town Centre and very close to the Grey Nuns Hospital. Virtually everyone I have discussed this with agrees that LRT expansion is a priority and that City Council should seek funding for the expansion as assertively as possible. To take it literally a step further, many people believe that the City should look seriously at taking LRT to the International Airport, especially if we win the bid for Expo 2017. More about this in an upcoming column. √ David Norwood is a freelance writer and editor. dnorwood@edmontonians.com 43
POLITICALLYINCORRECT
Islam and America … arch enemies or common themes?
T
he last month saw a fundamental shift in the challenges that face the United States as it deals once again with Islam—this time from a very different perspective. The issue has been created to a greater extent by many of the virtues so vehemently promoted and adhered to by all Americans: freedom and individual rights. On one hand is the desire by the American Muslim community to establish an Islamic Centre and Mosque (Cordoba House) at Ground Zero... on the other hand, the possibility that President Barack Obama was born a Muslim. To complicate matters further for American politicians was the desire and threat by a pastor in Florida to burn copies of the Quran to commemorate the events of September 11th. Unlike previous challenges faced by the United States, the Taliban in Afghanistan and the yet-to-be-found WPD (weapons of mass destruction) in Iraq which were easily addressed with a massive show of military force, these challenges are from within and by Americans. They have the potential to divide the country in a way not seen since the days of Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King and their fight for racial equality and opportunity. They are fuelled by the same concepts that make America one of the most soughtafter places for people to migrate to. The concepts of democracy, human rights, individual and collective freedom, the ability to practice one’s faith without fear and so on make the United States a place where those who have never known freedom or opportunity can come and build their own American “dream”. “The principle at stake in the Cordoba House controversy goes to the heart of American democracy and the value we place on freedom of religion,” J Street President Jeremy Ben-Ami weighed in, confirming the challenges that face all involved. 44
Muslims aiming to build the centre and the pastor looking to burn the Quran all want to be protected by the same charter that allows people of all denominations to co-exist. Let us look at each of these to understand what the motivation really is. Until the issue of building the centre at Ground Zero emerged, Muslims in the U.S. were finally settling… the blame for the events of 9/11 and Al Qaeda were moving from the entire Muslim population to specific individuals responsible for these crimes. Muslims were once again looking forward to a peaceful co-existence with their neighbours and colleagues. So why would anyone want to wake up the sleeping giant of intolerance against Islam? Was it because, this centre would: • Aim to heal the wounds of 9/11 and create a positive image about what Islam truly is about? • Take advantage of the freedoms accorded in the United States to “rub it in” to non-Muslim Americans that they not only have the capability but can effectively use the legal and political systems to drive a wedge in the community? • Or perhaps stake a claim to a piece of Ground Zero history? Will Ground Zero be another Jerusalem where individual groups fight for space or will it be a place that will allow people to heal and come together? Is the desire of having a centre at Ground Zero, similar to Rosa Park refusing to give up her seat on the bus, to validate the right of Muslims in the U.S. and their desire to be treated fairly and not be discriminated against? I would like to suggest that a significant majority of Muslims Americans would rather not have the few so-called “leaders” take on this fight, but use the resources in a different, more effective and less devise way of promoting the values and ethics of the faith. Pastor Terry Jones suggests, “We believe that Islam is of the devil, that
with Nizar Somji
it’s causing billions of people to go to hell, it is a deceptive religion, it is a violent religion and that is proven many, many times.” In fact, he coined 9/11 as “International Burn a Quran Day”. It is interesting that a person of faith, such as Pastor Jones, would take on a violent theme (burning) while accusing Muslims of being the same—similar to the pot calling the kettle black. This action begs one key question: What can possibly be accomplished by this action? Burning pages of the Quran will not wipe away the message of the faith. Many have tried that before and used religious books—be it the Quran or the Bible or others—or flags to drive their message resulting in nothing but chaos and bitterness. The reality is that this action—had it been carried out—would have had a significant global repercussion. The various riots and attempts by individuals from both sides of the argument to retaliate would have destroyed many innocent lives and created a further divide within a global population already ravaged with many natural and manmade disasters. However, as much as the Ku Klux clan has continually burned crosses, the might of individual freedom could have allowed Pastor Jones to start a chain of events that led many to feel “hell” on earth. Interestingly, if one were to conduct a poll, most Americans would rather preach humility, tolerance and understanding as opposed to vengeance. Given that the masses would rather focus on what is positive and build as opposed to destroy, why are individuals or groups allowed to create so much chaos and destruction? There are many reasons, but it all boils down to leadership, or lack thereof. Extremism: Whether it is Al Qaeda or a pastor looking to burn the Quran or any of the extremist leaders we see globally, extremism allows these individuals to gain recognition and notoriety. They play to the media’s immense appetite for EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
controversial material, and their desire to display this to levels beyond anyone’s imagination. Clearly, if the media did not popularize the actions of a few, their impact would be minimal. Political: Political leadership is constrained by the focus on retaining leadership on a periodic basis. Elections are a way of forcing leaders to move to the centre, giving up their core values and concepts with re-election a key motivating force. As such, they can only exercise influence on issues that lack controversy. Moral and moderate leadership: In all faiths, there are those who are moderate in their views, whose persona and image promote concepts of pluralism. These individuals can play a strong role in promoting the views and interests of many… in focusing on issues that bring communities and people together while publicly voicing their disapproval of extremism. Unfortunately, given their moderate mode, such leaders fail to get involved in a timely manner to have any impact. Be it within the Muslim or Christian world, many leaders have failed to recognize that their personal actions also impact the strength of their voices or credibility and, in particular, their opulence and personal conduct enables extremists to discredit their messages and claim higher levels of piety for themselves. For me, as a Muslim, it is disheartening to see, hear and watch what is happening in the United States today and the impact of that globally. Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world and in the United States… and, no matter what the individual belief systems are, there is room and tremendous benefit for pluralism to flourish. Individual freedom comes with huge responsibility, and it is up to those who want to build a better tomorrow to force the issue today. These issues have to be dealt with one objective: Bring people together and build strong communities. The United States can play a critical global leadership role in making that happen. In conclusion, does it really matter now if President Obama was born a Muslim? It does not really add to the fact that a socialist is a socialist—no matter what colour, or faith or how strong an orator he is. Until another day… √ Nizar J. Somji is president and CEO of Jaffer Inc., a management/investment consulting firm; and chairman of the board of Matrikon Inc., a company he founded in 1988. EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
CIVILWARS
with Nejolla Korris
Despite our wonders and greatness, we are a society that has experienced so much social regression, so much decadence, in so short a period of time, that in many parts of America we have become the kind of place to which civilized countries used to send missionaries. William J. Bennet
Real Men Don’t Spit
H
ave you noticed how many people spit in our city streets? You see men in suits spitting… teens in jeans spitting… young kids on bikes spitting… even, heaven forbid, the occasional girl spitting. Where did this phenomenon come from? Historically, spitting—aka hawking or horking—was believed to ward off evil spirits. Considering how much spittle I see emanating from our citizenry, there must be a lot of evil around. The Greeks apparently used to spit three times when they saw a madman. But, I haven’t seen anyone spitting three times, so it can’t be that madmen are roaming our streets. I was in a cab in the Wall Street district of New York a few months ago and a handsome, well dressed man in a designer suit was walking along the sidewalk. Without breaking his pace, he leaned over the sidewalk, stepped in front of my cab and spit! Any romantic notions on the sophistication of this heavenly being were instantly shattered the second that I saw the phlegmy projectile leave his mouth. Spitters, do you think about what you do? Is there no compass that actually makes you stop and think whether this is necessary in public? What woman—or man—would find this attractive? Most bodily functions that involve expectorating fluids are done in privacy where no one is watching—for good reason, not the least of which is hygienic. In this allegedly (I hate this term for its overuse) civilized society we claim to live in, some of our daily habits have reverted to being boorish and unmanly. It is not manly to spit—it’s disgusting. I don’t want to see it… I don’t want to step on it… I don’t want to hear it. I doubt if you asked any spitter today why that he would say he was warding off some evil spirit. More likely than not, it will be some clinical reason about why he can’t
walk around with a clogged throat. In sharing these observations with a male friend, he told me that men simply have to spit, and that he has been spitting since he was a young hockey player. Aha, so is that the culprit? Apparently, hockey players “have” to spit because mucous in their lungs condenses. If they can travel around the ice with an athletic cup, why not a spit cup too? So, why do hockey players continue to spit after the game is over? Even after the season has ended? What’s with the spitting on a street corner on a summer day? Spitting has become so rampant in China that the government decreed an official “no spit day” before the Olympics to try and break its citizens of the bad habit.* A Beijing health official declared that spitting was the major cause of respiratory diseases stating “spitting kills even more than the atomic bomb”. Men, if you want to attract women: Don’t spit. If you want to show some class: Don’t spit. If you want to stop the spread of airborne diseases: Don’t spit. But, the bottom line for whatever reason: Just don’t spit! √ *Quoted from the English version of People’s Daily Online, March 1, 2008. No spit: Beijing’s latest etiquette campaign draws mixed reaction
Nejolla Korris is an international expert in area of interviewing skills and linguistic lie detection. She is a keen observer and fan of the human condition. Dubbed the “Human Lie Detector” by some clients, she is a popular speaker on lie detection, fraud prevention and investigation, workplace fraud, and organizational justice. Nejolla recently launched a new speaker’s series on the differing communication styles between men and women. Contact: nkorris@working-it-out.com 45
ECONOMICOUTLOOK
economists don’t have a clue Economy is in angels’ hands:
B
ack in the ‘90s, Canadian songstresses Jane Siberry and k.d. lang sang a hauntingly beautiful duet about the beauty and pain of life, and all its unanswerable questions.
“Calling all angels, walk me through this one, don’t leave me alone. Calling all angels: we’re trying, we’re hoping… but we’re not sure how this goes.”
Little did these women know that they could have been singing about the Canadian economy in 2010. Near the end of August, close to a 100 economists from across the country met for our annual summer conference. Over a day and a half, we heard presentations and keynote speeches on topics ranging from pension reform to health care. Phrases like “income quintiles” and “multifactor productivity” were used liberally. We munched on scallops and roast beef, renewed old acquaintances and met new ones. There was much laughter, levity, and lively debate.
U.S. STILL IN SERIOUS TROUBLE
But two events dropped a sobering tone on the party. The first was a speech by a highly revered economist from the Swiss-based Bank for International Settlements. (Don’t worry if you’ve never heard of it—only economists really have.) He suggested that the U.S. economy was still in serious trouble, and that by no means are they out of the woods yet. We all swallowed hard. He also trashed the general equilibrium models and theoretical frameworks that have formed the foundation of macroeconomics for the past 50 years. He said they’ve failed—failed!—to predict what happened in 2008, and offer little help in getting the global economy out of this current mess. Considering the audience, this is a serious statement. The average attendee was probably around 45 years old, which implies that most everyone in the room has either studied macroeconomic theory or worked under its assumptions for about 25 years. With close to a 100 economists in the room, that works out to 2,500 years of cumulative study and work on a theoretical framework we were just told was useless. Ouch. The second sobering event came near the end of the conference. 46
with Todd Hirsch
After a full day of pondering a double-dip recession and if monetary policy would be sufficient to jump-start the GDP, one delegate stood up to pose a question. She essentially asked: “Does any of this matter if low income Canadians are losing ground by the day? When senior executive incomes are triple what they were a few years ago, but the best they can offer their lowest income employees is a 25 per cent cut in wages, do we even care?” In my opinion, it was the wisest question of the conference. This wasn’t a call to crush the capitalist system—this is a group of free-market economists, after all. But it was a sombre reminder that economists’ main preoccupations should really be the advancement of all Canadians, not just the statistical average. During the conference, we had brazenly referred to low income Canadians as “the bottom quintile” as if they were a scientific category. We needed a reminder that we are talking about the lives of Canadians and their families. The tricky part, of course, is knowing how to raise up the incomes, the skills, and the literacy levels of those Canadians most vulnerable to falling through the economic cracks. Handouts aren’t the solution, and government programs have been hit-and-miss. But the free market has failed these people. Whatever the solution, I’m sure it will start by us not referring to low income Canadians as “the bottom quintile.”
ECONOMISTS NOT SURE WHAT’S NEXT
Ms. Siberry and Ms. Lang called on the angels for guidance. But another writer, one from ancient times, also wrote about angels. He penned some verses to his friends in Corinth, Greece. To paraphrase liberally, Paul said: “If I’m an economist and can speak with the tongues of men and angels, but have no compassion for the least fortunate among us, I’m nothing but a crashing cymbal. All my talk is useless noise.” The economy is in uncharted territory. The U.S. is in real trouble and, without question, Canada will be affected. Some jobs may never come back and many more of us may fall on some very hard times. Calling all angels! We economists need your help because we’re not sure how this goes. √ Todd Hirsch, senior economist with ATB Financial, is the Alberta Business Columnist for Troy Media. Contact: THirsch@atb.com EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010
47
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EDMONTONIANS FALL 2010