To Catch a Rising Star Aldo Nova an iinta exclusive
Dennis Maruk
An iinta exclusive interview with the NHL Legend from the start of his career to where he is now!
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Feel refreshed with a mini vacation at Nigelle Medi Esthetics, your ultimate skin rejuvenation centre.
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Andrew Gouché Meet the world renowned gospel bass player as we dig deep into his favourite memories of performing.
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CONTENT 03-07 ABOUT IINTA CREATIVE ARTS 10-15 ALDO NOVA: TO CATCH A RISING STAR 18-23 ANDREW GOUCHE: A ROSE FOR A SONG 25-31 TIM BONHOMME: HARDWIRED FOR MUSIC LIFESTYLE | SPORTS - NHL 35-40 DENNIS MARUK: 60 SCORE RECORD SETTER 41-47 GILLES GILBERT: HEART FOR HOCKEY INTEREST | TRAVEL & AVIATION 49-53 ICELAND: LAND OF GIANTS 58-62 BATTLES OF AVIATION INTRODUCTIONS 65-68 IINTA BIOGRAPHIES HOME & BUSINESS 70-75 HOW DOES TRADING PRECIOUS METALS WORK? 76 COMING SOON
PAGE 03
ABOUT US & SOCIAL MEDIA iinta is an aggregate of art, music, sports, live edge creations, literature, photography, collectibles, décor, fashion, health, beauty, travel, iintaviews, and the exotic. It is ever changing based on what you, our audience, is iinta. Our exclusive celebrity interviews and product offerings are sure to delight! Topics of interest columns and changing trends ever evolving. With new content weekly, bi-weekly and monthly there is always something new to discover. Including our gift-giving section where users can donate to an affiliate charity and promote positive change for families in need. Sign up as a member for our newsletters, digital magazine and discounts. Follow us on our Social Media pages where we'll be featuring in-house episodes of Zaher's Test Kitchen; the Pilot Talk podcast with experienced pilots, Michel Treskin and Stein Mjåtveit; a dance challenge with Penny Ford of Snap!; acrylic artwork with Michelle Chretien, and more.
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THE TEAM Jennifer J. Lacelle Senior Editor
Jennifer Szendrey iinta Fashion
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Fred Lazar iinta Investing
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Deke Zaher iinta Cuisine
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JM Concerts iinta Music
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Accounting accounting@iinta.ca
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$10,000 SWEEPSTAKES To celebrate our launch, iinta is giving away up to $10,000 (almost 75 prizes) to our new iinta members! We’re offering gift certificates for fashion, shopping, literature and art. Treat yourself with a skin treatment, or enjoy a night out with fine dining and a yacht. There’s much more we have to offer, see for yourself: Shopping & Home 1.iinta memberships: 50 memberships (valued at $500) 2.iinta: Visa Gift Cards a.$500 (1x) b.$100 (5x) 3.Trendy Arrivals: $500 Gift Certificate 4.Fashion: iinta boutique, LuxyLane Collection a.$250 Gift Certificate (1x) 5.Live Edge Wood: $500 Gift Certificate Creative Arts 1.Painting by Mike Cywink Valued at $2,000 a. See Below 2.Photography: $500 Gift Certificate 3.Acrylics: $250 Gift Certificate 4.Literature: $250 Gift Certificate Healthy, Body and Accessories 1.Nigelle Medi Esthetics a.$500 Gift Certificate (1x) b.$250 Gift Certificate (2x) 2.Fast Track Fitness: $500 Gift Certificate for Personal Training
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$10,000 SWEEPSTAKES Sports, Celebrity & Adventure 1.Memorabilia: up to $1,000 in various items 2.Aviation: Introductory Flight (valued at $500) from FLL OSM Academy Fine Dining 1.Yachting: valued at $1,500 a.Dinner for two at Killarney Mountain Lodge b.Three-hour Georgian Bay Cruise 2.Cuisine: valued at $500 a.Executive dinner prepared by iinta Chef Deke Zaher
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IINTA CREATIVE ARTS MUSIC
PAGE 10
TO CATCH A RISING STAR
Aldo Nova. Photo by James St.Laurent
AN IINTA EXCLUSIVE WITH ALDO NOVA BY SYLVIA BECHARD FEBRUARY 23, 2021
Meet somebody who’s been out of the
In 2020 he started doing revamped live
spotlight for a while that’s coming back
home studio versions of his classic songs for
in full force. His name is Aldo Nova and
COVID 19 attracting his old fans and new
he’s known for his song writing, his
ones who had never heard of him before
virtuoso guitar playing, and all-around
leaving them wondering,” Wow, where has
ability to produce an album all by
this guy been?” The artist who was the
himself, playing all the instruments,
soundtrack of their youth was back, and
engineering and mixing it to boot.
fans commented, “STILL ROCKING IT!!!”
Turns out waiting thirty years to come
Once they saw Nova pop up on YouTube
out of a self-imposed hiatus has paid off
looking great,, in shape, and not showing
for Aldo.
any sign of his 64 years of being on this
PAGE 11
planet rocking out to a point where much younger artists couldn’t compete with, they were pleasantly surprised. “COVID was helpful in some ways.” Nova says because it gave me the chance to do something I love while helping people stuck at home because of the pandemic.” Aldo Nova. Photo by Sylvia Bechard
In only a few months his 2020 version of
Aldo Nova-Monkey on Your Back 2020-
Fantasy has already garnished 346,000
Smokin’Hot-for COVID 19
views, with all the other 9 he has done at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
well over 100,000 views each. Here are
v=pdsO1tawNO4&ab_channel=AldoNova
some links where you can watch a few of his COVID 19 performances.
Nova always had musical aspirations.
Aldo Nova-Fantasy 2020-Smokin’ Hot-for
He recalls when he was four years old
COVID 19
asking his mother repeatedly for a ukulele every time they passed the store window it
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
sat in. She gave in one day and bought it,
v=6f4rT30YxCU&ab_channel=AldoNova
starting a long musical journey for him.
Aldo Nova-Blood on the Bricks 2020-
That interest in music never changed. At
Smokin’ Hot-for COVID 19
13, Nova picked up his first guitar and says
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
he didn't leave his room for two years
v=5pkWV_FysqE&ab_channel=AldoNova
learning how to play it by ear.
PAGE 12
experience and confidence along the way. He played four 45-minute sets in clubs four nights a week and that’s where he learned how to perform, perfect his vocals and learned how to structure songs by playing the hits. He then started writing his own songs and at the age of 21 went to a recording studio to record his first demos of those songs for what was later to become his first album. He released his first album, Aldo Nova, on Aldo Nova. Photo by James St.Laurent
April 1st, 1982. It was a massive hit, selling
“Back then he says you used to have to put
over 500,000 copies in the first two months
on the record, play one note, then move
alone. That number would jump to
on learning the song note by note till you
2,000,000 in just a year. The album yielded
finally could play the song from beginning
a song that 40 years later is now considered
to end.” He also adds, “Nowadays, people
a rock classic, the powerful song called
learn things in a minute on YouTube,
“Fantasy”
that’s cheating,” he says laughing. His second album, Subject…Aldo Nova, He began playing in clubs just a few short
was released in 1983 displaying a
years later. He performed songs from the
completely new sound. It had a harder
Bee Gees to The Beatles gaining
edge and was a concept album. It also
experience and confidence along the way.
featured the first rock anti-drug anthem,
PAGE 13
the blistering Monkey on Your Back.
to name a few.
Even though the album sold in excess of
When Sony Music finally released Aldo
1,000,000 units, the record company
from his recording contract in 1990, he was
didn’t think it did as well as the first
finally able to move forward as an artist.
because of the massive sales and
That year his old friend, Jon Bon Jovi
commercial sound of his first album.
reached out to Aldo to help him arrange and produce the demo for his song, Blaze of
When the time came for Aldo to record
Glory for the film Young Guns 2 to which
his third album, “Twitch,” the record
Aldo wrote the opening hook line intro.
company got really involved and they
When Bon Jovi put his voice on Aldo’s
stated to take control of the production
demo and the film company heard it, Jon
and song choices, to a point where they
was commissioned to write the entire
had Aldo singing songs that he didn’t
soundtrack to the film.
write, like a cover artist. This left Aldo with an extremely bad taste for the music
Bon Jovi again called on Aldo to produce
industry, and he asked to be released
the other demos for the rest of the
from his contract, which they didn’t want
soundtrack, which was later recorded with
to do.
the help of some of L.A.s best studio musicians. Aldo did all the arrangements
After that, he decided to move back to
for the record and Blaze of Glory became
his hometown of Montreal, Quebec and
Jon Bon Jovi’s 1st number one single as a
started to do jingles for an advertising
solo artist.
company. In 1991, Bon Jovi returned the favor and He was very successful at it writing some
signed Aldo as the first artist on his own
for Coca-Cola, Chrysler and Air Canada
record company, Jambco Records.
PAGE 14
One such record earned him a Grammy in 1996 as a producer for Celine Dion’s 30,000,000 selling album Falling into You, which also won a Grammy for Album of the Year for her that year. After 30 years of silence from Nova, fans can rejoice as he is preparing for the release of his new album, The Life and Times of Eddie Gage, a 23 song 2-hour long Rock Opera. The Life and Times of Eddie Gage tells the tale of a young musical prodigy, Eddie Photo by James St.Laurent
Gage, who gets signed to a big record
Together they co-wrote and co-produced
company who bring him to fame but the
Nova’s 1991 album titled Blood on the
path he follows leads to his downfall.
Bricks. In the end though, Eddie finds redemption After that release, Aldo took a break as
and ends up on top again having been
an artist to become a very successful
saved by Faith, Hope and Love. The story
songwriter for many world class artists
is extremely more elaborate though as the
such as Celine Dion, Jon Bon Jovi, Faith
Opera has 12 different characters in it also.
Hill, Clay Aiken and many more, with each having number one singles on the
Nova describes the album as a musical
charts with his songs. He also always
roller coaster ride starting with an almost
produced the songs he wrote for them.
heavy rock sound and leading you through
PAGE 15
the story with music that encompasses
artist, I own the masters and the album
every style with Aldo morphing his voice
will be released on my own label called,
for each character. He started writing the
Viral Records so I don’t have anybody
first song of the Rock Opera on February
pushing me in the back, I waited 12 years
8th, 2008 and 12 years later on May 12th,
to finish it, I can wait 12 more if I have to,
2020 finally wrote the last song for it.
he says.”
He knew that the album was finally
“In his own words he says, “I’m at a point
finished when he wrote that song because
in my life where, at 64, I’m in a better
it was the character that was missing to
place than I’ve ever been, and also the
tie the whole Rock Opera together.
happiest. I realized that happiness doesn’t come from having money or being famous,
“When I was finished putting the final
it comes from within and having good
touches on that last song, called When All
friends and a good family life. I don’t need
is Said and Done, it was a very emotional
fame; I just want to be recognized for the
moment for me, and I’ll always remember
talent that God gave me.”
it.” Now more than ever, fans new and old, are The album was meant to be released on
waiting with open arms for Aldo’s star to
May 8th of 2020, but Aldo had decided
rise again.
then that due to the COVID 19 pandemic, he would wait till things came back to normal “I don’t want to release an album just for the sake of releasing one. I’m in complete control now, I own all the songs, I’m the Art by Curtis L. Smith & Aldo Nova
PAGE 17
MEMORABILIA Do you have a favourite musician, athlete, artist, author or the like? iinta can offer you signed memorabilia. Or say "hello" to your hero with a virtual meet and greet. Perhaps you would even enjoy a personalized video message for birthday celebrations, anniversaries, weddings or graduations. iinta has you covered.
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PAGE 18
A ROSE FOR A SONG
Photos courtesy of Andrew Gouché
TRAVELLING THE WORLD WITH ANDREW GOUCHÉ BY JENNIFER J. LACELLE APRIL 24, 2021
Deep inside the Iron Curtain was a
It was just one of the places Andrew
world onto itself, separate from the
Gouché, world renowned bassist,
influences of the West. Russia was a
remembers in his travels. He has played all
bleak grey as if the country had no
over the world and jokes Antarctica is
coloured paint. The housing district
likely the only continent he hasn’t visited.
could only be described as slums; deprived of the vast array of colours the
Early Days
world has to offer. Rows upon rows of
The Los Angeles native began his musical
grey, musky, lifeless buildings stood like
path as a child when he sang in a church
corpses, and homes within the Iron
choir. At 15 years old, he received a bass
Curtain exuded a “dystopian” world.
guitar and began learning to play by
PAGE 19
offstage during services. Until Gouché,
Michael Tobias, guitar cords from Cordial
bass guitar was unheard of in churches
and amps from Italian company,
and his influence was the key to making it
Markbass. Bassplayer Magazine named
a staple across America.
him in their 100 Greatest Bass Players, which totally blew his mind.
He played with Reverend James Cleveland, honing his skills, in the 1970s
His first solo album was released in 2015
for both live and studio performances.
and he is currently working on his second,
This opportunity was the doorway to his
expecting it to be released in fall 2021.
further success where he toured with a
Gouché is also working on his
number of outstanding performers like
autobiography, which is anticipated for
Andraé Crouch, The Winans and The
2022.
Hawkins Family. “I want to be remembered as somebody Gouché is a Grammy award winning
who brought joy to people,” Gouché says.
producer and his exceptional talent and ear for sound has further led him to
Making Memories with Prince
perform with incredible artists such as
There are a few moments in his profession
Prince, Michael Jackson, Chaka Khan,
that stand out in Gouché’s memory. He
Madonna, Aretha Franklin, Donna
says there’s a stage in every musician’s
Summer and Snoop Dogg. Over his 48
career where they attempt to figure out
years of playing, Gouché has garnered
where they stand amidst their peers, even
over 300 record credits by working with
if they won’t admit it.
various artists. For him, working with Prince was a He now has his own signature brand
chance of a lifetime. Prince watched
guitars, which are hand crafted by
Gouché perform with Chaka Khan, who
PAGE 20
was his opening act. After the show, the
About a week after Gouché stopped
man man himself ran to find Gouché
working with Khan, in late 2011, he
after the show.
received a call from Prince’s keyboard player who informed him that Prince
“It blew my mind,” Gouché says. “Every
would like his number. When he did call,
show we did with him after that, he
Prince’s first words were, “Mr. Gouché.”
would be standing over at the side of the stage with his dark shades on, watching
“The first thing I thought was, Prince
me play.”
knows my name!” Within minutes, Gouché had a first-class ticket to Minnesota, leaving the next day, and a car to bring him to the airport. He says every time he worked with Prince it was “one of those gigs you hear about” with a private car to the airport, flying first-class and having a chauffeur on the other side. Furthermore, he assisted with assembling the legendary man’s next band, which was incredible. Gouché is honoured that his opinion was so highly valued and respected by Prince. Experience the World When Gouché says he’s been everywhere barring Antarctica: believe him.
PAGE 21
From China to Japan, New Zealand to South Africa, where the band was required to fill out a form stating that they were honorary whites because black people still didn’t have equal rights. Gouché was mad about this and the frustration escalated at a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant when he was approached by a man who commented, “you’re not from here.” (1947-1991) to explain the invisible barrier Lowering his head and eyes, Gouché’s
the Soviet Union was creating as a means
shoulders hunched, explaining that was
to close off contact with the West. It later
how black people walked in South Africa.
became a physical entity as border
He stood out because he never needed to
defenses arose and different types of
hide himself, and always had the
barriers were erected.
confidence to walk tall and not step out of the way for whites passing by in the
The Iron Curtain was essentially designed
street. He says California has always been
to prevent citizens from leaving and stop
“kind of isolated” from that temperament
information from entering. Military
so that was his first experience with such
personnel were assigned to outposts along
attitudes.
the borders to watch for signs of escapees.
Then there was Russia. Former British
Before the Iron Curtain was removed,
Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, used
Gouché was playing with Bebe and Cece
the term ‘Iron Curtain’ in his March 5,
Winans in Europe, England and Poland
1946 speech, just before the Cold War
before being told they were going to
PAGE 22
Russia. Gouché recalls being hesitant for
Once in Moscow, they boarded a plane to
two reasons: the Iron Curtain and the
their next destination. Gouché laughs as
little knowledge he had of the country.
he explains the airline has the worst track record for flight crashes in the world. He
“We hear our own version of the news,”
learned it was common knowledge, but
Gouché says. “But you can go somewhere
the crashes were never actually reported
and it’s a whole other thing.”
publicly.
They ended up taking the train from
The group landed in Novosibirsk, a city
Poland to Russia, which he says was
where the artistic community was
incredible. Gouché remarks that because
banished from the mainstream. Gouché
Russia was so hypervigilant of being
explains that Russia was “anti-everything
invaded, they made their train tracks
during the years of communism” to a
larger than the standard used in Europe.
point that even music required approval
This led to the group waiting two hours
and had to be state sponsored.
for a machine to literally pick up the train and place it on the specific tracks
Jazz music, and similar styles, were not
into Russia!
approved at that time.
“Which was absolutely amazing to me,”
However, he remembers going to a jazz
Gouché says of the process.
bar where he heard absolutely incredible performances. He even remembers wishing he could bring them back home so they could freely do what they love. The group themselves performed in Novosibirsk and it was astounding for
PAGE 23
Gouché. He still remembers as if it were yesterday. They played in a one ring circus, directly in the centre, for five nights straight. This is when he realized music transcends language barriers. The crowd didn’t know the words to their lyrics but would still come forward, every single night, and place roses along the front of the stage. “It was really, really beautiful.” Gouché smiles, his memories taking him back to that moment. “It was one of the best experiences I ever had.”
PAGE 33
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PAGE 25
HARDWIRED FOR MUSIC
All photos courtesy of Tim Bonhomme
BEACH BOY TIM BONHOMME EXCLUSIVE BY KELLY LOUISEIZE MARCH 10, 2021
His father never wanted him to be a
remembers Rosemary Park and skating so
musician. He would have preferred he
long his toes ached when he finally
graduate university as a real estate
submitted to the cold and returned home
lawyer, an accountant, anything but a
to have mom’s hot chocolate.
musician. But something inside Tim Bonhomme was hardwired for music.
His father, Conrad Bonhomme, was the owner and broker of the ReMax offices in
Tim grew up in Val Caron, Ontario just
Sudbury area. Feeding seven children
outside of Sudbury. He along with his six
meant spending a ridiculous amount of
siblings moved to New Sudbury on Gary
time at work, showing homes, or creating
Street when he was a small boy. He
appraisal reports.
PAGE 26
That kind of discipline paid off, not only
University of Toronto (U of T).
for Conrad but for his sons who adopted his determination. Tim’s older brother
Training in University
Al is a professor at the Musicians
“I get there, readying myself for the
Institute in Hollywood, California. Al
audition. I hear all the other musicians and
was the reason Tim threw himself into
they sound so much better. I asked myself,
music. He played guitar as a young boy.
‘What am I doing here? This is a world
Tim was intrigued and picked up the
class institute!’”
instrument. He’d bang around on it, but the instrument didn’t resonate with his
A gentleman escorted Tim to the nine-foot
style. When their father sold a house
grand piano on stage and there he sat in
down the street and the owners decided
front of an audience of 2,000 empty seats.
not to take their neglected piano,
A faint light dimmed in the back row
Conrad brought it home.
where three men sat awaiting his performance.
“I remember the keys were half off, some of the back some of the back strings were
“I hit one note on the piano, and it was so
broken. It was a mess trying to get it into
loud. I wasn’t used to it. I mean, this is a
our house,” Tim’s eyes rolling with a grin
concert hall!”
on his face. “It was never tuned.” Tim played a few classical and jazz pieces. Marcel Pinard at Le Centre des Jeunes,
The professors were open to hearing
was his teacher. He was on Elgin Street,
anything. When he was finished, Tim was
down from his father’s office. After four
completely deflated, terribly disappointed
years of tutorage, Tim felt ready to
in his performance.
audition for student placement at the “I completely blew the audition.”
PAGE 27
“Here I felt like I blew it, but the profs felt I had potential.” Tim, however, had already accepted a full year with Western University Professor Cornelius Rodert, a Holland immigrant who taught the art of technique, and speed. “He really slowed it down, so slow with the finger dexterity and placements on the piano. The pressure on where the fingers were placed had a direct correlation to the independent muscles in the hands, the He chalked it up to experience and on he
arms, and the back.”
went to a second interview at London, Ontario’s Western University. This time
It was all interconnected and dependent at
he was in front of one teacher, an
the same time, he said.
environment he felt comfortable with. In the subsequent days Tim received a call
After completing the year, Tim went back
from U of T asking why he hadn’t
to Sudbury to work at Falconbridge Ltd., a
returned a reply.
Canadian mining house which has since been purchased by Glencore. He spent the
“What reply?” Tim asked.
year saving money to meet his brother Al in Los Angeles (LA) who had been touring
Apparently U of T had been trying to get
with his band for the last five years. Al
hold of him. He had been accepted!
recommended Dick Grove School of
PAGE 28
Music, for Tim to learn more jazz.
With a fender Rhodes keyboard as his only instrument, Tim began to integrate
Time to Shine in Los Angeles
himself into local bars, clubs, playing
Landing in LA, Tim had to find a vehicle
country, weddings bar mitzvahs – anything
to transport himself and his music
to survive. The cost of staying ahead of the
equipment. He bought a 1969 Ford LTD
music trends was steep. New technology
and lost its transmission a few weeks
and keyboards were expensive.
later. His Uncle Claude, a self-made man, “There was no reverse. I had to put my
offered to invest in a music studio for both
foot out to push it backwards.”
his nephews.
PAGE 29
So, the boys moved into a small house
“Those gigs paid more.”
and worked tirelessly on their instruments and new technology.
The Beach Boys Through some of the 60s bands, Tim met
“We didn’t see the sun for years.”
Jeffrey Foskett, who introduced him to Mike Love, the lead for Beach Boys. In
They produced a band called Visitor
1990, he was asked to join Mike’s band,
with Vancouver-born Paul Friesen as
Mike Love’s California Beach Band, on a
lead vocalist. It was an 80s band with
tour to Japan. It was first class all the way
some good rock quality. Record labels
and Tim had a fabulous time. The next
were showing an interest. Then the
scheduled destination was Hawaii where
market shifted. People wanted to listen
Tim’s father joined. Conrad was a ham. At
to heavy metal bands like Guns and
home Tim remembers his father dancing
Roses. Visitor, after three years of hard
The Hustle with Lisa, his daughter, in the
practice, was toast overnight.
living room.
Newly married and with two children,
He put those moves to good use in Hawaii
Tim played in clubs, Disneyland, and
when four professional cheerleaders asked
casual weekend weddings.
him to shake a leg.
PAGE 30
Arriving back in LA, Tim was now
long distance and asked if he had two
playing with Hollywood bands. It wasn’t
tickets available for the evening
until 1996 that he became a full-fledged
performance. Apparently, one of his good
Beach Boy. Mike Love took over
Australian friends was babysitting two
managing the bookings, hiring the talent
twin boys who had just lost their father.
and setting some team goals.
Tim was only too happy to give these boys something else to think about.
There wasn’t an audition or panel of judges to mark his placement as a Beach
“Sometimes you wonder what the hell
Boy. Once a musician attains that level of
you’re doing out here. I mean I am away
excellence, he or she doesn’t have to
from family, my kids,” he said, as his chin
audition anymore, he said. The craft
begins to dimple and the tears well up in
speaks for itself.
his eyes. “It just comes down to making people happy. It was my pleasure to take
“The biggest part of keyboarding is the
the stress away from these boys, if only for
sound. You have to make it work. It isn’t
an evening.” Wiping back his tears Tim
just hitting a note. It’s how long you hold
sighs. “Geeze, I didn’t expect to be so
it. The pressure in which you hold it, and
emotional about this. You got me.”
you have to marry that with other instruments in the band. It is the
Perhaps it hit a nerve. Perhaps he was
technical pressure you have to deal with
missing his own children, his family, the
as a keyboardist.”
feeling of connectedness to something or someone.
Tim has played everywhere except for the Antarctic.
Home is important to Tim, cooking his own meals, going to the gym, hiking,
In Australia, his brother Pierre called
spending time with his children, his
PAGE 31
brother Al and a handful of friends.
The seasoned vets teach Tim a thing or two on how to slam it. No other language
Travelling can wear the best man out, he
bonds people together like music. He is
said. “At times you wake up and don’t
thankful he can play alongside the caliber
know the city you’re in. That is the real
of musicians, grateful for the set-up crew
deal.”
and for the life he isable to live.
Last year, Tim was gone 220 days out of
“Our crew, the band and the management
the year with performances in different
are one very well-oiled machine, everyone
time zones. “I just sleep when I’m tired. If
is very professional. We tour so much
I can sleep four hours and nap
together; we are a family. I’ve been
somewhere through the day, I’m good.”
fortunate to have been able to tour with The Beach Boys and entourage all these
Travelling can wear the best man out, he
years.”
said, "At times you wake up and don't know the city you're in. That is the real
And to think, it started with a throw away
deal."
piano on Gary Street in some hick Northern, Ontario town called Sudbury.
Last year, Tim was gone 220 days out of the year with performances in different time zones. "I just sleep when I'm tired. If I can sleep four hours and nap somewhere through the day, I’m good.”
PAGE 32
AUTOMOBILES
WHAT'S NEW IN THE WORLD OF CARS? WHAT TECHNOLOGY IS RISING TO THE FOREFRONT OF THE INDUSTRY? LEARN MORE ON IINTA.
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IINTA LIFESTYLE SPORTS
PAGE 35
DEFYING THE ODDS
All photos courtesy of Chris Mackeigan and Dennis Maruk.
NHL STAR DENNIS MARUK EXCLUSIVE BY JENNIFER J. LACELLE MARCH 3, 2021
What does it take to play sports
He needed to be persistent in proving
professionally? Skill, ability, persistence,
himself as an outstanding athlete if he ever
and motivation are several factors when
had hopes to play in the “big man’s game.”
it comes to many areas of life, but especially so in professional sports.
Maruk started playing hockey when he
Sometimes, a player’s size is also a factor.
was eight years old and the sport quickly became a passion for him. He began
For NHL legend Dennis Maruk his size
playing competitively as a young teenager
and height were obstacles in the eyes of
in his hometown of Toronto, Ontario,
others when it came to being drafted and
with the Ontario Hockey Association
signed into the NHL.
Junior Division.
PAGE 36
1972 to 1975 had a very successful junior career with the London Knights. During his time with the Knights, Maruk won the Rookie of the Year award, the Red Tilson award for most outstanding player in the OHL and scored an impressive 159 goals. In 1975 Maruk was drafted by the NHL’s California Golden Seals, however being drafted was no guarantee that Maruk would ultimately play in the NHL. “There’s no guarantee,” Maruk says. “Even when drafted you didn’t know.” At 15, Maruk was traded to the London
When Maruk and his agent at the time,
Knights hockey team in London, Ontario.
Boom Boom Geoffrion (Joseph Bernard
This was a difficult move for him, as he
André Geoffrion) spoke with the Golden
had his mind set on playing junior hockey
Seals’ general manager, Maruk was told he
in his hometown of Toronto, Ontario. For
would not be playing in the NHL, but
some time, he resisted the move to
rather that he would start his career
London, but Maruk’s older sister Karen
playing in the minors.
convinced him to take the opportunity. Despite Maruk’s agent urging the Seals to Moving at such a young age away from
sign him, the general manager stood firm
family and friends proved difficult for the
with his decision. Although this was not
young Maruk, put he persisted and from
good news, Boom Boom encouraged the
PAGE 37
young Maruk to keep playing his best hockey and prove, once more, that he was an exceptional player and worthy of playing in the NHL. Shortly thereafter, Maruk was brought up from the minors to play with the Golden Seals during an exhibition game. He impressed the Seals’ manager in his first game and scored his first NHL goal playing against star player Marcel Dionne. After the game, Maruk received the call from Boom Boom that he was being offered a contract to play in the NHL. This was the beginning of Maruk’s incredible 15-year journey and career with
record with the Capitals was only
the NHL. He played with a few different
recently broken by Alex Ovechkin who
teams for the first several years of his
scored 65 goals in the 2007-08 season.
career, but his major highlights stand with the Washington Capitals with whom he
Maruk continues to hold the record with
played for from 1978-83.
the Washington Capitals for achieving the most points in one season accumulating
With the Washington Capitals Maruk
136 points in 1981-82. During this season
scored 50 goals in the 1980-81 season, and
he was fourth in the league for total
then surpassed this record in the 1981-82
points, just behind Wayne Gretzky, Mike
season when he scored 60 goals. This team
Bossy and Peter Stastny.
PAGE 38
The superb skills Maruk displayed on the
Maruk also played hockey internationally
ice led him to play in two NHL All-Star
during his NHL career. He played for
Games: the first in 1978 when he played
Team Canada winning bronze medals in
with the Cleveland Barons, and again in
1978 and 1982, and the World
1982 as a Washington Capital.
Championships in 1978, 1979, 1981 & 1983.
Playing in the All-Star Games were
Maruk ended his career with the
memorable experiences for him, although
Minnesota North Stars in 1989 whom he
he does acknowledge that today’s All-Star
played with from 1983-1989. He retired in
games are more interactive with the
1989 when his kneecap shattered during a
players and the audience with speed races,
game. Although he healed significantly, he
hardest slapshot competitions, etc.
didn’t feel 100% to return to hockey.
PAGE 39
“I probably could have played a few more
He briefly worked on the business side of
years, but I felt it was time to move on,”
the NHL but didn’t feel it was a good fit
Maruk says.
for him. From there, Maruk held different positions which included teaching hockey
As was common for retired NHL hockey
to children and adults of all ages in the
players from that era, the ending of his
United States, Canada, and Europe. He
career led to many years of struggling as
has also become involved in charity games
he had not prepared for post-career life.
and is an active member with the NHL
During his time in the NHL Maruk was
Alumni.
told that there would be opportunities available for retirees, but these
After spending 35 years post-career in the
opportunities rarely presented
United States, Maruk returned to his
themselves.
hometown in Toronto, Canada in 2008. Many in the hockey world were happy to see him back in Canada and welcomed him home. He was often told upon his arrival to Canada that they wondered where he was hiding all those years. He has since been asked to participate in a multitude of charity games, and now typically plays anywhere between 50-60 games per year with charity organizations such as Easter Seals, Canadian Cancer Society and Special Olympics. Since 2014 Maruk has also been running a
PAGE 40
summer hockey school in Huntsville, ON.
and dealing with anxiety, depression, and
“It’s lots of fun to give back,” Maruk says.
addiction.
In 2017, he released an autobiography
As it turns out, Maruk’s book hit the
which he co-wrote with Sportsnet’s
shelves in his 60th year, encompassing 60
sportscaster Ken Reid. The book, Dennis
chapters, and celebrating his 60 goals in
Maruk: The Unforgettable Story of
the title of his book.
Hockey’s Forgotten 60-Goal Man, talks about the highs and lows of the sport, as
The book’s chapters are unlike traditional
well as his life after his hockey career.
hockey autobiographies that can be 30-40 pages long. Rather, he chose to make the
Maruk explains that parts of the book
chapters short, quick reads which helps
were difficult to write as they were
make the book more interesting and
“personal situations,” but he felt it was
unique. Maruk’s book has been well-
important to provide a full picture of his
received, and he often brings copies for
story. He notes that his life hasn’t been all
fans at the charity events he participates in.
“peaches ‘n cream.” Currently, COVID has made participating There is a great deal in his book that
in these events difficult, but Maruk is
pertains to overcoming adversity, such as
hoping to get back into playing charity
moving from home at such a young age,
games and attending alumni events as soon
how his size affected his NHL prospects,
as restrictions are lifted.
PAGE 41
HEART FOR HOCKEY
All photos courtesy of Chris Mackeigan and Gilles Gilbert
AN IINTA EXCLUSIVE WITH GILLES GILBERT BY JENNIFER J. LACELLE MARCH 18, 2021
Life & Family
skates. That is to say, there’s two blades
From the moment you can walk there’s a
along the front and two along the back.
pair of skates put on your feet. It’s cold
Then the young skater goes onto the large
outside, because Quebec City is often
bladed style before finally obtaining a
chilly with lots of snow, which means it’s
regular pair. Of course, it’s necessary to
time to play ice hockey. Of course, the
build up to regular skates because it’s
first pair of skates a child receives isn’t a
essential to learn how to slide across the ice
size ten adult, NHL grade—though
first, and ankles need to be strengthened.
parents have hopes and dreams of such. Gilles Gilbert, one of the top goalies in What children first receive and learn to
NHL history, began skating as soon as he
skate with are a pair of double-bladed
started walking.
PAGE 42
Gilbert’s natural talent and abilities provided him ample opportunity growing up and leading to professional sports. The chance to play major league baseball was openly offered to him around the time he was drafted for hockey. However, players could spend many years in the minors before ever reaching the majors. A normal baseball player’s career can span well into their forties, which could have been a benefit since in hockey most people Fortunately for Gilbert, he’s a natural
retire in their early thirties. Despite the
athlete and the pro-baseball leagues
longer career potential, it didn’t seem
wanted to draft him just as much as the
nearly as appealing to Gilbert as hockey.
NHL did.
Afterall, hockey was built into his DNA.
He proudly states his daughter, Jennifer,
Growing up, his family lived in an
received this athleticism from him and
apartment across from a church that had
can pick up any sport she tries. His son,
ample lighting and space for ball hockey,
Terry, was also a natural on the ice and an
making it a great resource.
excellent goalie, but he chose a different kind of athleticism in the long run and
He recalls coming home from school for
became a firefighter. Funny enough, it
lunch and playing street hockey. A normal
was a potential career Gilbert himself
day also happened to include a game of
would have chosen if hockey hadn’t
hockey after school. Weekends were also
worked out.
included in this busy schedule and Gilbert
PAGE 43
recalls playing street hockey down three to four different streets. It wasn’t just other kids who played though. Gilbert recalls his dad being an excellent goalie and teaching him how to goaltend. His older brother also helped teach him, in fact, he too became a proathlete and ended up playing in the American Hockey League. Even his mom would play street hockey with them. Struggles in the Dream Gilbert began playing in a league at nine
The reason for this wasn’t just Gilbert’s
years old, however, it was at 13 he knew
skills, but practicing with only one goalie
for sure he wanted to play in the big
available is quite difficult.
leagues! At this point, Gilbert had been playing It all happened when his brother was
with people older than him for awhile
playing in the AHL and asked his coach,
having done two tournaments in peewee
Boom Boom Geoffrion, if his younger
and bantam.
brother could join in place of an injured goalie.
“I was always playing not at my level,” he says. “It was pretty strange for a young kid like me to play with the juniors. All the pictures I’ve got, ‘who is that kid?’ No, I was the goalie.”
PAGE 44
That shift was a difficult time for Gilbert, not only was he young and away from home but he was the only French speaking person on the team and hadn’t learned English yet. Not only that, but he was replacing a former goalie. This led him to feeling ostracised among the team. Because he didn’t speak English, Gilbert didn’t know what was going on, and he says there were moments when he would Although, Geoffrion had initially been
enter the showers and everyone else would
concerned about the lack of in insurance
leave.
but also his age and Gilbert recalls him saying, “my god, this kid is too young.”
Furthermore, he was unable to obtain
Gilbert was thankful his dad was there
rides unless he stayed into the wee hours
and signed papers stating that the team
of the morning just to get a ride from the
wasn’t responsible if something did
trainer.
happen to him. Despite living with three other players, This solidified his dream to play in the
they “wouldn’t let him in the car” and left
NHL and he continued to progress and
him to walk a mile to the arena or catch a
develop his skills. He went on to play in
bus.
the Juniors in Quebec before moving on to London, Ontario.
“No one spoke to me,” Gilbert says.
PAGE 45
“Then after practice when it’s 3:30 a.m.,
“You’re finishing. It’s your last year in
you don’t feel like hanging up the
junior, and having a great season, you’ll
equipment [to obtain a ride home]. I don’t
have a much better chance to be in the
wish that any anybody. It was tough.”
NHL,” Gilbert recalls his dad saying.
In fact, partway through the first season
Reflecting on it, Gilbert says, “thank God I
he called home and told his dad he
said ‘okay, I’m going to go back with the
couldn’t “stand the situation” anymore.
team.’ So, we lead the playoffs and all of a sudden everyone wants to pick me up and
He even looked up the price of a ticket
drop me off.”
from London to Quebec City and asked his dad for the money ($85) when he
Finally!
called, but his father told him no.
In 1969, Gilbert was drafted to play in the pros at the age of twenty. He was the third
“I want you to play there,” Gilbert recalls
pick and was feeling great!
his father telling him. Though, it initially didn’t go as planned. However, the situation didn’t improve
While he wanted to play in the NHL, he
and when they were playing a game in
wasn’t too impressed with the contract as
Quebec City a few weeks later, Gilbert
it wasn’t very much of a paycheck. They
had packed all his bags and brought them
told him if he didn’t sign it then he would
with him. After the game, his father asked
be on the next bus back to Quebec City, so
where he was going and Gilbert said he
he signed on.
was going home with them. Thereafter, they told Gilbert he would play However, his dad once again told him no.
in the minors for one month. During those
PAGE 46
four weeks he had a great time but awaited their call patiently. True to their word, they called after a month and but he only ended up playing two games. “I had 48 shots, number 1 star,” Gilbert says. “Second day we played Chicago, 48 shots, then won 2-1.” However, he didn’t play for another month and in his frustration, he went and caught a flight from Minneapolis to Cleveland, and played in the minors without permission from his coach.
he was invited. Gilbert ended up playing because their best goalie had been injured,
The morning after his flight, he called the
he actually showed up in crutches with a
coach and told him not to search for him,
broken ankle.
that he was in Cleveland and wanted to play. He also told him that it was
After they won the game, Gilbert’s coach
ridiculous to be waiting a month without
showed up and stood next to him but
playing.
never spoke to him. Gilberts says, “he was mad.”
“They could have kicked me out for that,” Gilbert says.
Usually, Gilbert notes, when people are sent from NHL to the minors it’s because
He joined a practice there only to be told
of an injury. While that wasn’t the case for
they were playing a game that night and
him, the coaches were lying and said that
PAGE 47
was the reason for his arrival in
“I’m still in hockey, that’s where I belong.”
Cleveland. Gilbert played five games with them before returning to Minneapolis
Gilbert also had the opportunity to play
though he still didn’t play very much upon
in the NHL Hockey Legends: 30 games in
his return.
30 days, two days off, and repeat, for five months.
“They should have left me there to play the rest of the season,” he says.
It was strenuous but he had a blast playing these games.
In 1973, he was traded to the Boston Bruins, where he would spend the next
He strongly credits his wife, Diane, for
seven years of his total 14-year career.
being resilient throughout their 47 years
Gilbert earned a stellar record of 17
of marriage, stating she often raised the
consecutive wins and it remains
kids alone since he was away constantly.
unbroken, though he says someday it will be. His overall SV% is .883—which is
“She was patient all these years,” Gilbert
absolutely remarkable for a goalie’s
says before laughing. “I’m keeping her, I’m
career.
not trading her, no way! Only goalies get traded.”
After his retirement in 1983 he tried several different jobs but went back gone back to his roots in hockey. He’s spent the last 35 years working for Canadian Hockey Enterprises as their public relations liaison; part of that includes handing out shirts, speaking to players and giving the teams their trophies.
IINTA INTEREST TRAVEL
PAGE 49
ICELAND
Mountain waterfall. Photo by Douglas Landsborough
THE LAND OF GIANTS BY DOUGLAS LANDSBOROUGH MARCH 15, 2021
When Norse explorers first landed on the
No matter what you are into, Iceland likely
shores of Iceland, they believed that the
has an experience for you. If you are an
island was home to mythical giants. From
adrenaline seeker or are seeking a relaxing,
the soaring mountains to glaciers that
rejuvenating getaway, Iceland is a hidden
can span the horizon, Iceland is nothing
gem of a destination that is only now
short of awe-inspiring. On this island
starting to get the attention that it
nation, natural beauty is combined with
deserves.
a culture that values time spent with loved ones and appreciating everything
The People of Iceland
life has to offer.
As an island nation, Iceland has historically
PAGE 50
been focused on both their independence
with limited natural resources, but this
as a country and their togetherness as a
mindset leads to after-work hours being
people. This has led to a culture that
laid back, spent with family, enjoying what
values one another, one where your
life has to offer.
friends, family and neighbours are appreciated and can be relied upon. In
Don’t let that discourage anyone looking
this regard, equality is a fundamental
for an active nightlife, though! Reykjavik,
aspect of Icelandic society; the country is
the capital city of Iceland, is a popular
seen as a forerunner for both LGBT and
destination for backpackers and boasts an
women’s equality and is consistently
incredible nightlife.
ranked as one of the best countries to live in for women.
The Landscape of Iceland For anyone who visits Iceland, it will take
Beyond that, the people of Iceland are
no time at all to realize why Vikings
very welcoming to tourists. Anyone
believed giants lived on the island.
travelling to the country often find
Glaciers, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, lava
smiles from strangers and a willingness
fields and volcanoes all make up the
to help out. Though the Icelandic
diverse landscape of Iceland.
language still exists, everyone in Iceland speaks English fluently.
If you decide to rent a car and drive around the Ring Road that is just over
What might take some visitors by
1,300 kilometres long, you can see volcanic
surprise is how laid-back Icelandic towns
rocks, ancient ice fields, icebergs floating
are after working hours. Icelanders are
in crystal-clear water and awe-inspiring
incredibly hard-working people, as they
mountain peaks... all in just a few hours of
have had to be to survive the harsh
driving. The various landscapes of Iceland
winters and the nature of being an island
are something from a fantasy novel.
PAGE 51
Here are just a few things to keep in
in Iceland. With massive glaciers in the
mind when traveling around Iceland:
center of the island receding over the centuries, combined with rain and snow,
-Iceland exists on two continents, and
an incredible amount of water pours over
you can scuba dive between North
the beautiful landscape of the country,
America and Europe. The Silfra Fissure
making its way towards the ocean.
is a beautiful, crystal-clear space that
Travellers should be sure to check out
exists between two tectonic plates and
many of these stunning waterfalls, like
swimming there is a must.
Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, two waterfalls on the South Coast of Iceland
-There are upwards of 10,000 waterfalls
that both tower 60 metres in height. -Volcanoes have helped form the island and are still there to this day. While you will need to rent a Jeep and trek to the centre of the island if you want to see the awe-inspiring lava fields, the impact of the volcanic nature of the island is everywhere. Black sand beaches and lichen-covered fields of volcanic rock look like something from outer space, while hot springs and sulfur pits are incredible natural phenomena that can’t be missed. Take advantage of the natural heat made in the Blue Lagoon to treat yourself to mineralfilled hot springs that are as rejuvenating as they are good for your skin.
Behind Seljalandsfoss Photo by Douglas Landsborough
PAGE 52
-Because of the waterfalls and
Summer spans June to September and is
geothermal nature of the island, about
the peak travelling season in Iceland. For
85% of Iceland’s energy use comes from
those used to a warmer climate, it’s
renewable sources, with oil being
important to note that temperatures in
imported almost exclusively for vehicles
the summer usually range from 5C (40F)
and fishing fleets.
to 15C (58F).
There are few guarantees in life, but you
Everything is open during the summer,
can be assured that a visit to anywhere in
including the sun; a phenomena known as
Iceland outside of its capital will treat
the Midnight Sun occurs during this
you to breathtaking views and scenery
season, meaning that some days during
that will stay with you for a lifetime.
the summer experience 24 hours of sunlight.
The Seasons of Iceland Being so far north, Iceland has very
Fall runs from September to December
unique seasons that you should keep in
brings more rain, snow and
mind when planning any type of travel.
unpredictability. While experiencing like dog sledding are available, many other
Spring in Iceland is a great time for
cultural events start up again after tourist
anyone looking for adventure and runs
season.
from March to June. The snow of winter has melted and plants are beginning to
Winter comes in full force in Iceland
bud again. Accommodations during
between December and March. Snow and
spring are typically cheaper than during
frigid temperatures can show up suddenly
peak times like the summer, but
and close off entire roads or sections of
experiences like hiking and whale
major routes like the Ring Road. That
watching are available with the thaw.
being said, those who love the idea of
PAGE 53
the Northern Lights and incredible sights like ice caves are in for a treat during Icelandic winters, even if the sun is only around for five hours some days.
An Unforgettable Experience There are so many unique experiences to be had in Iceland, whether you are an adrenaline seeker, looking for cultural experiences or want to see some of the most breathtaking sights in the world. Though this island nation has traditionally been seen as a layover destination or just a small country on the map, it is a must-visit for just about anyone.
A midnight beer with the midnight sun. Photo Credit: Douglas Landsborough
PAGE 54
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PAGE 55
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IINTA INTEREST AVIATION
PAGE 58
THE BATTLES OF AVIATION
FROM THE FLIGHT DECK BY CAPTAIN MICHEL TRESKIN MARCH 5, 2021
Good morning folks from the flight
Oh boy, do I miss flying. The good old days
deck. This is your Captain speaking. We
are gone. I remember flying with the
are currently flying at 39,000 feet, going
cockpit door open at all times but that
900 km/h. The temperature outside is a
changed after 9/11. It took a while for the
warm minus 45˚C, but the temperature
aviation sector to rebound after these
at our destination is plus 28˚C.
tragic events. The whole industry had to re-think security measures and it has never
We have another three hours of flying
been the same.
before reaching our destination. So, sit back, relax and enjoy our hospitality.
Nowadays, passengers are used to an hour
Thank you for flying with us.
wait in line for airport security and a
PAGE 59
detailed check in. The world adapted and it almost returned to normal. Currently, cockpits are the equivalent to vaults with armed doors. So impersonal, if you ask me. Though, a few pilots will come out of the cockpit once the plane has returned to the gate to thank passengers. The financial crisis of 2008 was another
Why can’t there be a plane in which the
event that made a significant difference
pilot will always have the option to take
in the aviation industry. So many people,
control of the aircraft completely if
including myself, lost a bucket full of
needed? After all, that is what we are paid
money. Flying was reduced, but it was
for.
more of a financial hardship than anything else.
The travelling public became scared and the whole fleet was grounded. As a result,
Sometime later, the aviation world
many pilots were laid off.
witnessed several incidents and accidents involving a new commercial jet called
An interview with FAA Administrator,
Boeing 737 MAX. The Lion Air flight
Stephen Dickson, was published by USA
610 on October 29, 2018, and Ethiopian
Today on June 17, 2020 indicating the
Airlines flight 302 on March 10, 2019,
COVID-19 pandemic has also delayed the
urged the grounding of this aircraft
already long process of thoroughly
model around the world.
scrutinizing the aircraft systems.
PAGE 60
It has taken almost two years for Boeing
never be the same. Ever!
to correct the glitches in the software. Or will it? Aviation, along with every other industry in the world, has been severely impacted
At this very moment, the future of aviation
in an unprecedented manner by the
might not look promising; especially if you
COVID-19 pandemic.
are a youngster contemplating a career in aviation.
It has been a year since the aviation industry began experiencing what can be
Equally, those that have invested hundreds
considered its worst collapse in history.
of thousands of dollars now wait upon a
Thousands of professional pilots,
darkened promise that once they obtained
mechanics, Air Traffic Controllers,
their license, a job would be waiting for
Airport Fire Fighters, ground personnel,
them. How discouraging must this be since
all the commercial businesses in each
air travel has been reduced to a bare
airport around the world, flight
minimum?
academies, and corporate jets have been affected one way or another by this worldwide tragedy. The percentage of all professional pilots who have lost their jobs, or have been furloughed, surpass 60 per cent. Regional airlines have ceased operations, and Asian carriers have fired all expat pilots. The devastation has, and will, cost everyone dearly. The whole world will
PAGE 61
This pandemic will be controlled, and eventually life will get back to normal. People will start to travel again. It is part of our DNA, human nature, a predisposition in our blood, so to speak. People will want and need to take a long, well-deserved break after what we have been through. I predict air travel will spike considerably in the next year or two as citizens around the world will want to get Who wants to travel and be quarantined
away from the confines of their residence
in a hotel for 14 days — at your own cost?
and even countries.
This situation needs to be controlled sooner than later by whatever means
Interestingly, the reality for aviation is
necessary in order to make air travel
that we will be facing a pilot shortage as
attractive again.
soon as this pandemic is under control. CAE, Canadian Aviation Electronics Ltd,
We might be looking at a vaccine
has predicted that this year alone, the
passport in the near future. I have read,
world will need an excess of 26,000 new
for example, that Spanish authorities will
pilots, and over the next 10 years, it will
keep a registry of those who refuse to be
need over 250,000.
vaccinated, but it is unclear what or how they will use the information.
“Excuse me? How could that be,” you ask.
But enough of the bad news. Time to
Many pilots who were close to retirement
check out the bright side.
became redundant at the beginning of the
PAGE 62
pandemic, and took an early retirement.
start a career in aviation. I personally
Furthermore, the maximum age to be an
believe aviation is not dead. It has survived
airline pilot is 65, and some countries
and recovered from other crises and will
have established a maximum of 60.
begin anew. Maybe a little slower and
Another factor to take into consideration
more cautiously, but my bet is we will find
is that the new generation is
ourselves “almost” back to normal
understandably not too keen in investing
operations within two years.
large amounts of money in an industry that is struggling.
The world needs aviation and cannot live without it. Could you imagine not being
Generally speaking, it’s between $120,000
able to travel except by boat or rail? Or
—150,000 US to get a multi-engine
travel at all?
commercial license. Nonetheless, and taking into consideration the estimated
*The views and opinions contained within subjects, content,
numbers, I think this is the best time to
iinta, iinta’s staff, or iinta’s affiliates.
information, data and imagery does not necessarily reflect those of
IINTA INTRODUCTIONS BIOGRAPHIES
PAGE 65
CUISINE | DEKE ZAHER
iinta’s culinary mastermind, Deke Zaher, is a true connoisseur of unique cuisine and fresh, whole food ideas. His foremost memories of being in the kitchen start at the age of four. Zaher says during large family gatherings he was often in the kitchen with his aunts rather than playing video games with his cousins. Zaher’s favourite memory is the
scent that occurs when olive oil is heated and has garlic and lemon added to it, calling it “the essence of Palestinian cooking.” Zaher’s first public display of his family’s traditional cooking was in 1984 when he explained to his fellow classmates what was in the hummus that he regularly brought to school. “I got tired of being the kid with weird lunches,” he says. Zaher officially trained to be a social worker, which was his career for 19 years, where he often supervised lunch periods in schools — a place where junk food is readily accessible. Over the years he noticed correlations between what the kids were eating and their behaviour afterward, noting lack of concentration, lethargy and mood. “Food is mood,” Zaher says. “If you’re going to eat garbage, how do you think you’re going to feel?”
PAGE 66
“Old world tradition meets new world flavours,” he says of his creations. Zaher has been selected by FedNor (Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario) to participate in the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair the last three years: 2019, 2020 and 2021. He officially retired from social work in 2019 in order to further expand his business. He has received five nominations for the 2021 Bell Business Excellence Awards: Entrepreneur of the Year, Company of the Year, Service Excellence, Small Enterprise and Business Start-Up.
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BUSINESS | FRED LAZAR
One of Canada’s leading experts in Economics, Fred Lazar, has been an Associate Professor at York University since September 1972. This role includes the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies, as well as the Schulich School of Business. Prior to taking this role he was a researcher for Prices and Incomes Commission from 1970-71. Lazar has a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics from
the University of Toronto (1965-69); he furthermore has a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy from Harvard University for Economics (1970-78). Though he has done far more than teach throughout the span of his career. Lazar worked as a government advisor through the 1970s-80s. Most notably, while working in the Prime Minister’s office in 1982, he was involved with economics and policy work that included trade negotiations, pension reforms, industrial policy, taxation, competition policy and deregulation. Consulting with a wide assortment of companies has also been a prominent aspect of his career. Some of these areas include the auto industry, financial services, resource industries and cultural industries. He’s also had the pleasure of being the Director for several companies since 2015: Air North, Interknowlogy, and Metis Infinity Investment. These companies range from a Yukon-based airline, a California-based software company, and the economic
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development branch of the Metis Nation of Ontario. He is strongly involved with First Nations issues across Canada. Currently, he is an expert witness in three cases about land claim disputes by First Nations people. Lazar’s reasoning for studying economics was that he had no interest in medicine, law or science. Subsequently, he chose Commerce and Finance in order to avoid taking English classes — ironically, his career has involved a great deal of writing and communication. The area of economics is intriguing to Lazar because it covers such a broad spectrum of topics. “Almost every major issue during the past 30-40 years has required some degree of economic analysis,” he writes. “I have become increasingly more interested in finding the flaws in the mainstream economic theories.” Becoming a professor hadn’t been his intention initially, however, when the job posting came to light, Lazar decided to apply as he needed the money. He was still in grad school completing his thesis at this stage. There are two primary reasons he has remained in academia the past five decades. One is because he has the freedom to work in all the aforementioned areas, which also allows him to continually learn. The second reason is the freedom permitted him the ability to remain present in his children’s lives as they grew up. Over the past five decades he has noticed that his students general age range hasn’t changed, which has allowed him to see how each generation adapts and uses technology. It’s also given him the ability to see how their thought processes have changed over the years. Though, interacting with and learning from his students has been his favourite aspect.
IINTA HOME & BUSINESS INVESTING
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PRECIOUS METALS
HOW DOES TRADING PRECIOUS METALS WORK? BY DOUG LANDSBOROUGH MARCH 17, 2021
Long before human beings were trading
dominate the conversation but they aren’t
bitcoin and holding mutual funds, even
the only options available for investing.
before paper currency or minted coins
There are a variety of commodities we pull
were commonplace, we used precious
from the earth, and many of them are
metals as both a signifier of wealth and as
traded on exchanges or physically owned
a method of exchange. These days, metals
by individuals.
are a viable option for both investing and day trading.
Though precious metals like gold might not hold the same mainstream favour they
Within the metal market, gold and silver
once did, metals are still a valuable
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method of investing and potentially
Through institutions like banks, you can
gaining wealth, and are widely used in
purchase different forms of precious
investment portfolios today.
metals. You can either keep those metals yourself or you can purchase the physical
If you’re looking to invest in metals, there
products without them ever being
are a few different avenues you can go
delivered to you.
down. When it boils down to the basics though, trading commodities like metals
In the latter case, you will normally pay an
is really trading ownership of an actual
institution to store and keep custody of
amount of that metal, usually measured
your metal. This allows for more security
in troy ounces. Whether or not you have
than you would likely be able to provide
that metal in your physical possession is a
but is not free.
different story. Alternatively, you can invest in metals With precious metals like gold and silver,
through a brokerage that offers a mutual
you can buy and own actual pieces of
fund or exchange traded fund (ETF)
these metals. These might come in the
dealing with precious metals. Through this
forms of bullions, bars or coins.
method, you will contribute to the fund and the fund manager will put that towards the investments offered. With this indirect investing, you will pay management fees but do not have to worry about monitoring prices, market news, interest rates, etc. For anyone looking at direct investing— where you control your own investments
PAGE 72
either over a long term or like a day
from jewelry to electronics, but all of
trader—you can trade metal futures. This
them share an innately higher value than
means that you are responsible for your
the metals in the second category because
own portfolio and can invest based on
they’re more difficult to find and mine.
where you think the price of a metal will go and either hold a long position, a short
Base metals encompass the other tradable
position or simply trade throughout the
metals and are much more common and
day.
industrial in nature. These include aluminum, copper, iron ore, lead,
As with any investment, it’s important to
molybdenum, nickel, steel, tin and zinc.
be smart about your money. Direct investing in metals or any other asset or
Even though these metals aren’t
security comes with its own risk, which
commonly used in high-ticket items like
we will touch on later.
jewelry, they are required for everyday products.
What Kind of Metals Can You Trade? Within the world of metal trading, there
When it comes to trading metals, most
are some major players and some
people focus on precious metals. That
commodities that have flown somewhat
doesn’t mean, however, that base metals
under the radar. Of the metals that are
do not see their fair share of movement.
traded, your options are split between two types:
What Are the Advantages of Trading Metals?
Precious metals are your more valuable
There are a variety of potential benefits to
minerals This category includes gold,
including metals—both precious and base
silver, platinum and the lesser-known
—in your investment portfolio. These
palladium. The uses of these metals ranges
include:
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High liquidity. Metals are traded at high volumes every day, so it is likely that you will be able to buy or sell when you want to. Better rates for leverage trading. Leverage trading is a specific type of trading that has the opportunity for great gains (and oppositely, losses). Be sure to understand leverage
Security. Unlike other assets or
trading before trying your hand at it,
securities, you can physically hold
as there are more rules surrounding
gold and silver bars and coins. If you
it than your normal trades.
possess the metal, there is no way you can be hacked or fall victim to an
Long-term stability. Though metals are
online scam.
far from immune to volatility, they are generally seen as stable long-term
Countering inflation. Many investors
investments.
recommend including metals in your portfolio to help counter inflation,
Practicality. Because both types of
since they are physical assets and not
metals have practical uses we have
contingent on a government.
come to rely on, and the fact that
However, no metal is completely
precious metals are indicators of
immune to inflation.
wealth, there is no signal that these metals will suddenly disappear in the
What Are the Risks of Trading Metals?
near future.
With all of those upsides, you might be
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rushing to add gold or another metal to
harm mining causes, governments
your portfolio. However, take a few
adopting more eco-friendly regulations
moments to understand the risks
might impact the supply of precious and
associated with investing in these
base metals.
commodities. Volatility. Even though they are good for hedging against inflation and used in long-term investing, metals can be one of the most volatile investments out there. Gold, for example, has seen quarterly ranges spanning from 4% to 40%. This is great for experienced day traders but isn’t appealing to all investors. External influences. These metals have to be mined from somewhere, and these expensive and laborious operations can be limited or
Scams. If you’re trading physical assets
completely stopped by external
—bars and coins—be sure to purchase
influences like natural disasters and
them from reputable channels. There
politics.
are a lot of scammers out there.
Environmental impact. Mining is
How Do You Get Started?
incredibly damaging to the
Like any investment, the first step is to
environment. In addition to the
understand your own financial position.
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Nothing is ever a sure bet, so never invest
of gold, check out your local bank. If you
more than you’re willing to lose.
are interested in trading metals online, look to any platform that trades futures.
If you want to purchase physical pieces of gold, check out your local bank. If you
For centuries, fortunes have been made
are interested in trading metals online,
and lost on metals like gold. Do your
look to any platform that trades futures.
research, trade smart, and these commodities might pay you back in folds.
Like any investment, the first step is to understand your own financial position. Nothing is ever a sure bet, so never invest more than you’re willing to lose.
Disclaimer The opinions expressed in this blog are for general informational purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual or on any specific security or investment product. It is only intended to provide education about day trading and the financial industry. The views reflected in the
If you want to purchase physical pieces
commentary are subject to change at any time without notice.
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