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with Muggsy, Marty & Mark
F
ans arrived two hours early for the
June Grand Story Slam... or they risked being turned away at the door of The Blue Chair. Citytv producer Marina Michaelides hoped she had saved enough seats for her entourage. This was just her second time performing the spoken word on stage, and the petite Greek from England needed to find a quiet corner in which to tighten up her words. The innovative café— located in an obscure retail strip on 76th Avenue—has only 70 Marina Michaelides seats and the place was jammed with writers, teachers, restaurant workers, retirees and university students. Spotted in the crowd for June’s finals were Catherine Kuehne-Harder of the upcoming Doors Open Festival, contestant/speech writer Terrence Harding, and green architect Ernst Von Meijenfeldt. Nine contenders delivered five-minute narratives, judged by patrons as they finished off their pad tai, bison burgers, and beef churasco marinated in lime and spices. Psychologist Dr. Norma Pelkie and her companion were invited to hold up score boards—a couple of tough adjudicators publicly jeered by partisans and secretly supported during intermission. Norma had won a Story Slam twice last year and knew the high performance standards. “Over 1,000 words means you’ve got to read fast,” says Blue Chair owner and recurring story slammer Harold Wollin. “You can’t wait for the crowd to laugh and get your story told in time—600 words is about right.” Read any longer and you lose points from a perfect score of 10. Harold, a NAIT-trained chef turned ship cook turned graphics designer/journalist turned restaurateur, opened his eatery four years ago. Susan Hagan brought him the idea of a Story Slam a while back and it’s been a full room since. Up to $400 can be won for a solid slam. Newcomer Marina stole the night. And the crowd cheered.
Chrysler Intrepid was big enough to raise a family of four in the trunk. I found one on a snowy day at Crosstown Motors and returned for a sales celebration with cake and cola. Hallsy was sitting in the used car office eating the free stuff; I went for a ride with Bob Janis. Judging by the dozens of sales plaques on his wall, he must be their best salesman. I liked the car and low-balled an offer. Eventually, the used car manager, Marko Kamal, walked over and said “You really know Hallsy very well, don’t you? He’s been our spokesman for many years.” “Yes, 40 years,” I said. “Okay, you’ve got your deal.” Two things: I saved about $5,000 off the sticker price (whatever that means)… and, I have to be nicer to Hallsy. The rest of the story is that, in late June, I drove into a landscaper’s truck and trailer, parked half on the road and half on the lawn… sort of jackknifed. Somehow, I didn’t see it in the bright sunlight and did considerable damage to the right front fender. My first accident in a lot of years… but I finally get a chance to try the insurance claim system after selling the product for decades.
anything for the first time. But thanks to We Gotcha Covered, Dr. Ollie and I were invited to a Storyland Valley Zoo fund raiser: the Safari Animal Encounters Gala. The goal is to raise $12 million over the next 10 years to bring it up to world standards. The revitalization is being spearheaded by the Valley Zoo Development Society. Chad Stewart and Donna Zazulak run the ambitious new We Gotcha Covered firm.
I never thought I’d save money merely by knowing Bryan Hall. I wanted a smaller car because my
president of the United States, even to hug him sort of—I couldn’t help myself and security didn’t seem to mind. Interesting that coverage in the other local media missed Bill Clinton’s remarks specific to Alberta. Basically, he supports the continued development of our oilsands and admitted that his “environmentalist” friends aren’t happy with that stance. He does want developers to pay more heed to environmental factors, but is confident that it is a resource that will remain in demand for decades to come— no matter what alternatives to fuel come on stream.
Bill Clinton Photo by Janis Dow
Don’t forget to take in the Taste of Edmonton, starting on Friday, July 18th. Churchill Square will be buzzing with 40 vendors, a Taste of Wine and a Taste of Beer. There is a no pet policy so leave Fido at home. Sunday will be a big day with the Avenue of Cars, a must-see event.
Spent some time with Con Boland and his wife Rose to celebrate his birthday at his Riverdale home, renowned for its beautiful gardens. We got a personal guided tour of his new place across the street. It doesn’t have as big a yard, but the house does have every gadget known to man, including a four story elevator—Con is getting on, you know. We have several family portraits taken by the award winner, including recent ones of Dr. Ollie and me with our miniature Schnauzer, Cue.
As some of you know, I serve on the board of Given my advanced age, it’s tough to do
It was quite a honour to sort of meet the 42nd
Meals on Wheels, and I want to assure folks who rely on this service that Edmonton will not suffer the fate of the Victoria operation which has stopped home delivery. We are blessed with very good hearted donors and people who support our fund raisers. And, I can’t say enough good things about the Meals’ dedicated staff, led by Liz Tondu, the brains behind everything, and Jim Draginda, manager of marketing and fund development. The same goes for the volunteers who dish out the food and make the deliveries no matter what the weather. Please don’t forget our fall fund raiser, the Celebrity Box Social. We would really appreciate auction items.
Now, if we could just get Clinton to impart the same message to attendees at the U.S. Conference of Mayors who were meeting in Miami. They debated a resolution by Mayor Kitty Piercy from Eugene, Oregon that asked “…for environmentally sustainable energy and not fuels from dirty sources like the tarsands.” Some cities are even considering a ban on our fuel. The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers has launched www.canadaoilsands.ca to open dialogue on what is being done to curb greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. Getting Clinton to be part of this initiative would a good investment. √ Call Muggsy Forbes at 780.482.4545 or e-mail mforbes@edmontonians.com
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after many years out of the business. Ernie Mushtuk, now owns ‘half of Edson,” and many will remember Chuck Benson from his days running Yellowhead Broadcasting.
works for Sportsnet out of Calgary… former weatherman Ian Leonard is in Minneapolis… and the bespeckled Ashley Banfield is in New York. Former anchor gal Leslie Miller is with ABC TV Los Angeles.
Blogging from “Down Under” is Matt Hawkins
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From the original K-97 staffers: Al Murdoch
Enjoying their retirement on the coast are folks
I also got word from a few Edmonton Journal
like former ACCESS and CKUA ex-execs Don Thomas, and Jackie Rollins who e-mailed in from the Parksville/Qualicom on the island. Don’ son Myke has been my pal for many years. He toiled at CJCA in the mid 1970s and now is the Homes Editor for the Calgary Sun. Kathy Kovacs checked in from Vancouver, reminding me of several ex-Edmontonians now working there: the multi talented Dawn Chubai, Perry Solkowski, Kerri Adams, Robin Sticklee and Christie Gordon, to name just a few. And, from CISN with one of the best names ever, Mannie Bazunis— nephew of the legendary Ernie Afaganis—is at CTV. Many others contacted me from the area: Jim Archibald, Noreen Lodge, George “Jockey G” Kelso and Al Shaver, all from CFRN… plus Jim Hockley from CFRN/CHQT. Ex Nor Net owners Hugh McKinnon and Gene Daniels stay involved in the business from their west coast base as well.
writers: Wayne Overland has homes here in Edmonton as well as in Victoria and Phoenix… Jim Davies is ‘somewhere in Mexico’ and checks in with me about every two years… Bob Remington calls Canmore home and freelances for the National Post.
is making a great living as a freelance voice talent in Vancouver… ex GM Matthew McBride is now a multi-license holder on the west coast… and former sales guy Wayne Keen was last sighted in Mexico.
hen you’ve been in the media as
long as I have, the number one question I get from people I run into is… “Whatever happened to…?” Last month on my Pugetsoundradio.com blog, I put out the ‘ask’ to Edmontonians Elsewhere and received responses literally from all around the globe.
Starting with family: my brother Gord Forbes, who spent 33 years with Corus Entertainment, and was with Moffat prior to that, is now the VP of business development for the Vancouver Canucks. Brother Gerry Forbes still holds down mornings at Astral Media Radio’s CJAY 92 in Calgary. He worked with me on The Bear for a bit in the mid 1990s.
Some of the original CHED guys from around 1954—when it was 1080 CHED—checked in: John Barton and John Dolan are now in Victoria and Calgary, respectively. Both are still considered two of the top voice talents in the business and keep active by voicing national commercials for radio and television. Other long time CHEDers elsewhere are Bob McCord, living in Laguna Beach, California… Jeff Rechner is now doing freelance voice work in Los Angels….former CHED and Newcap big wig Al Anderson is in Phoenix… onetime GM Roy Hennessey is launching a brand new radio station in Vancouver. Roy has been operating several media based businesses in Toronto for the past decade or so. Former program director in the station’s heyday Keith James Sr is also living on the Left Coast and back in radio
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who worked in the Edmonton media from the early 1960s to the mid-70s at CHED, CHQT and then CFRN Radio/TV as the municipal affairs/court reporter. Matt retired to Nanaimo and is currently visiting his kids in Australia until early November.
ack from the North. Inuvik to be
exact... where I hosted the 8th Inuvik Petroleum Show. Big news out of the gathering includes the successful record bid of $1.8 billion for the rights to explore for oil and gas on a chunk of land below the Beaufort Sea by BP Exploration. That could certainly lead to substantial pumping down the road. Other news includes even more delays on the long-awaited $16.2 billion Mackenzie Gas Project. Fred Carmichael, chair of the Aboriginal Pipeline Group, gave quite a speech saying he wants everyone involved to pressure the Joint Review Panel to make its ruling on the project this year, not next year. The regulatory body has to make sure the gas project does not have a negative environmental impact. Also part of the show: former Alberta Premier Ralph Klein who was the keynote speaker and comedian Rick Mercer. I was so looking forward to Ralph’s speech. I thought that now that he is out of politics, he would let loose and lay us out with his thoughts and opinions—not so much. He rambled on about the media and how “important it was to get out from under the dome.” Entertaining, I suppose, but not much to chew on. In contrast, Rick put on a very smooth and funny show. He told us stories about his adventures on television and backed it up with clips from his show(s). I heard that he might be touring the show across the country. Something to check out.
Jerry Siemons, who used to be CISN program director, was in town from Vancouver to apply for a new FM station for Pattison Broacasting. He was joined by Pattison’s Kelowna GM, Bruce Davis. Another former Edmontonian, Jim McLaughlin, fronted an application to the CRTC as well.
Former Moffat GM Vern Traill still enjoys life in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. And I heard from John Beaudin, an ex K Lite-type, who moved to Calgary. Michael Kuze, former A Channel weatherman is in Toronto.
Finally…checking in from Lloydminster, is In the BC Interior, long time on-air guy Nick Carter is still working in the business in Kamloops. He started in the Canadian Forces Radio Baden-Soellingen, West Germany in 1971; then worked evenings at CFRNAM , CJCA and CHQT in the 1970s. Former Telemedia boss Doug Shillington is retired in the Vernon area.
More ex CTV – Kathryn McDonald and Peter Labardious now toil in Toronto… Roger Millions 350 Z driver, frustrated because he couldn’t get by us, came awful close to clipping one of the cyclists. I’m a wee bit conflicted with Critical Mass. On one hand, after nearly being killed more that once cycling, it’s good that the event shines a light on cyclists. On the other hand, I wonder if it will do a disservice by pissing off car drivers. I find bicycling on Edmonton streets frustrating and dangerous, considering the sloppy road conditions and some drivers who seem unwilling to share the road. It forces a lot of bicycle riders to the sidewalk, which is dangerous for walkers. It would be nice if drivers and riders would share the road and follow the rules. If drivers were more conscience of and courteous to cyclists, more people would bike to work. In a perfect world, this city would have designated bike paths/lanes for commuters—the river valley trails are great for your heart and soul but not the best for getting to work. Sooner than we think, bicycles will dominate the roads of the city. If you want to join a Critical Mass ride, the next one is the last Friday of the month at 5:30pm. Meet at the fountain at City Hall. www.edmontoncriticalmass.com
What a sight at the Alberta Aviation Museum...
Colleen Valentine who worked at several Edmonton stations throughout the 1990s. If I missed you… next time around. Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear, EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio. Contact marty@edmontonians.com line, according to imdb: “A woman’s haunting visions reveal a Catholic priest’s sinister plot to silence her mother from speaking the truth about the atrocities that took place at her Native American boarding school. A contemporary drama of suspense, Older than America delves into the lasting impact of the cultural genocide and loss of identity that occurred at these institutions across the United States and Canada” Morris told me, “I have heard those stories my entire life. I was amazing to see this story on the screen. I have to say that it is important for all to see this film. It helped me and I think it will help everyone fully understand what happened in our past.” When I asked Georgina where we can see this film after its debut at Dreamspeakers, she suggested keeping an eye on www.olderthanamerica.com.
Just say YESS to Chris Curtola... the VP of the Junior Chamber International Edmonton sent me an e-mail to get a plug in for the 10th Annual JCI golf tournament, in support of the Youth Emergency Shelter Society (YESS)— a great and important cause. There’s an 8:00AM-shotgun start on Friday, July 11th at the Links in Spruce Grove. Chris says there’s still time to sign up. The Links is in great shape and the steaks, cooked over charcoal by Dale Connors, are delicious. Contact Colleen Alexander at 780720-3839 or golf@jciedmonton.com
On Sunday, June 22nd, I witnessed a Canadian North 737 Combi aircraft with its side hatch wide open—and Edmonton’s own guitar hero Bobby Cameron, wailing away on his Fender Strat. It was Rockin’ the Runway, I was very fortunate to be sponsored by Canadian North Airlines. among the near 2000 people at The rain didn’t dampen our spirits. the President Bill Clinton speech Bobby, Anne Vriend and others on the 20th of June. My thanks to performed in what was billed as the Edmontonians Sharon MacLean world’s first Boeing 737 Combi and Barb Deters for the Emerald concert. It may hit the road, I mean air, seat. Hey, I got to shake the man’s for concerts throughout the North. It’s hand and will eventually have the been a while since I’ve seen Bobby picture to prove it. Bobby Cameron, Rockin’ play—he was solid. He’s heading east I just wanted to say that Clinton the Runway for the Stan Rogers Folk Fest, then is likely the finest speaker I have he’ll be at the Central Music Fest in Red Deer on ever heard. Nary a um/er/ah in 60 At the end of May, I was out for a bicycle ride August 16th and the Beaumont Blues Fest on the 30th. minutes plus. I really connected with what he thinks are the when I came upon a large group of cyclists near City Hall. www.bobbycameron.com three things that absolutely have to be addressed on our It turned out to be the monthly gathering of likeminded planet: inequality, insecurity and unsustainablilty. He cyclists or any other ‘self-propelled’ I hosted the World Indigineous inspired me to do more... especially with regards to the folks who take part in ‘Critical Mass’ environment. Film Awards... as a part of the 2008 events. They happen in various cities Clinton’s latest book Giving: How Each of Us Can Dreamspeakers International around the world... and the slogan Aboriginal Film & Television Awards. Change the World –explains a lot of what he was rapping sums up the mission: “We aren’t Congrats to all the winning films. I ran about. He’s doing a lot to change the lives of the blocking traffic; we are traffic.” underprivileged around the world. His ability to raise into actor Morris Birdyellowhead The mass, including me, rode from millions upon millions of dollars is impressive—when he who was in Bury My Heart at City Hall to Gazebo Park in Old Wounded Knee, September Dawn, and asks, people give. Strathcona... taking up the entire street He’ll be back... don’t miss him. √ Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto in which on our way. The event promotes nonhe played Flint Sky. He was giving Mark and ‘Critical Mass’ polluting transportation and raises the Mark Scholz, owner of MES Communications Inc. offers a high praise to Older than America profile of cyclists in Edmonton. I found variety of services including production, creative and which won best drama and best feature the riders to be a fine group. It was a pleasure to ride over entertainment. For more information or to suggest a story film. It was directed/executive produced by and stars the High Level Bridge without any cars on it. However, a idea, email mscholz@edmontonians.com Georgina Lightning and Adam Beach. Here’s the story
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CELEBRATING
Poll
19
STATION
YEARS
With Linda Banister
FOUNDER DICK MacLEAN
JULY 2008
Vol. XIX
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No. 7
SHARON MacLEAN Publisher and Advertising Director Telephone: 780.482.7000 Fax: 780.488.9317 e-mail: info@edmontonians.com edmontonians.com
ith the hopes of one day hitting the jackpot, people have been enticed for decades by various gambling activities. From Blackjack to Western 6/49, there are endless opportunities to try your luck. This month’s Poll Station asked Edmontonians about their participation in various gambling activities.
HAVE YOU VISITED A CASINO IN THE PAST YEAR?
OF THOSE WHO HAVE PLAYED THE LOTTERY...
TRENDS Concierge service/Lauber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Coaching/Vespi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
69%
CIVIC BUZZ/Norwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 MEDIA MINUTE/Hogle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 CORPORATE ETHICS Graduation/Somji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 MY E-SPACE Breathe/Rayner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 LIVELY LIFESTYLES Menu Magic/Berry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Absolute Bodo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
BARB DETERS Editor
editor@edmontonians.com COLUMNISTS Linda Banister John Berry Linda Bodo Marty Forbes Muggsy Forbes Bruce Hogle David Norwood Erin Rayner Mark Scholz Nizar J. Somji FEATURE WRITERS Barb Deters Rick Lauber Peter Drake McHugh Marg. Pullishy Laurel Vespi PHOTOGRAPHERS Terry Bourque Janis Dow SPECIAL PROJECTS Edmontonians Transformers Tom Bradshaw Les Brost Steffany Hanlen Larry Ohlhauser
44% 39% 17%
31%
SOCIAL SCENE Country BBQ photo feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 THE TRANSFORMERS End is beginning/Hanlen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Emotional wiring/Brost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Natural abilities/Bradshaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Fearing the worst/Ohlhauser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Percentage
POLL STATION Gambling/Banister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Percentage
INSIDE VOX POP Muggsy Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Marty Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Mark Scholz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Said they had not visited a casino in the past year
Said they have visited a casino in the past year
To begin, survey respondents were asked if they had visited a casino in the past year. While 31 percent indicated they had visited a casino, 69 percent stated they had not. The most frequently cited reason to not visit a casino was that they do not gamble in general (58 percent), while 29 percent had no interest or time, and a small percentage felt casinos were a waste of money (four percent). Of the 31 percent who had visited a casino, 45 percent had been once, 42 percent had gone two to five times, while 13 percent had visited six or more times. Playing slot machines and volunteering were listed as the top activities during the visits to the casino.
HAVE YOU PLAYED BINGO IN THE PAST YEAR? Respondents were then asked about their participation in bingo games at bingo halls in the past year. The majority (94 percent) had not played bingo in the past year, while six percent had played. Of these respondents, 50 percent had played once and 33 percent two to five times. Eleven percent were more frequent visitors who had played 11 or more times. When asked what their primary purpose was for playing bingo, 67 percent considered it a social outing. Of the 94 percent who had not played bingo in the past year, having no interest in general and not gambling were the top reasons they hadn’t participated (59 and 19 percent, respectively).
HAVE YOU PURCHASED A LOTTERY TICKET IN THE PAST YEAR AND HAVE YOU WON? Finally, respondents were asked about their lottery ticket purchases (lottery tickets include 6-49, Super 7 or any other gaming tickets available from licensed vendors and lottery kiosks). About one third (36 percent) had not purchased a lottery ticket in the past year, citing reasons that included not believing in them (25 percent), not gambling (25 percent), the perception
Said they played the lottery less than once a month.
Said they played the lottery about once a month.
Said they played the lottery more than once a month.
of low chances of winning (22 percent), and the belief that lottery tickets are a waste of money (14 percent). Of the 64 percent who had purchased a lottery ticket, 39 percent did so less than once a month, 17 percent about once a month, and 44 percent more than once a month. When those respondents were asked whether or not they had ever won anything from their ticket purchases, 66 percent reported that they had, while the remaining 34 percent had not. When the winners were asked what they had won, answers varied from a free ticket or free play (five percent) up to $100,000 (two percent). The most common answers, however, were $50 (20 percent) followed by $20 (16 percent). When respondents who had not previously won in the past were asked if they plan on purchasing a lottery ticket in the future, 96 percent said yes, they are going to keep on trying. The Poll Station surveyed 100 City of Edmonton residents on the topic and, while the results of the research are not statistically reliable, they do provide a qualitative indication of what Edmontonians are thinking.
New to the Edmontonians website: Monthly Poll Station Online Question Visit www.edmontonians.com to register your opinion
Want a question included in the Edmontonians Poll? Contact Linda at 780.451.4444 or e-mail lbanister@edmontonians.com. Linda Banister is a certified management consultant and the owner of Banister Research and Consulting Inc., a full service provider of market research and program evaluation services. Visit www.banister.ab.ca.
GRAPHIC PRODUCTION Rage Studios Inc.
THIS MONTH’S COVER
The Transformers with the Transformees Photo by Terry Bourque Published by 399620 Alberta Ltd. on the first day of each month at C-100 Park Side Tower, 8920-100th Street Edmonton AB CA T6E 4Y8. ©All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Manuscripts: must be accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. Edmontonians is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All stories Copyright ©Edmontonians Publications Mail Agreement No. 40023292 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department C-100 Park Side Tower, 8920-100th Street Edmonton AB CA T6E 4Y8 Email: info@edmontonians.com
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of concierge élan Inc., here in Edmonton. She works primarily with the corporate sector. “It can be as basic as having your dry cleaning or grocery shopping picked up and dropped off. Birthday presents purchased, wrapped and delivered to the office… small event planning… travel arrangements. Whatever our client needs is the service we provide.” A concierge can and does wear many hats. And, who knew, the industry even has an overseeing body: the National Concierge Association. The NCA was established in 1998 in Dallas, Texas by a group of concierge professionals who wanted to create a platform for networking on a local and global basis… throughout the United States, Canada and internationally. The NCA’s presence is felt worldwide with members in the corporate, hotel, retail, entertainment, civic, academic, residential and privately-owned industry sectors. NCA’s founding president, Sara-Ann Kasner, once a concierge herself, often called counterparts in other cities seeking information. “She was phoning around and really trying to connect with that city, so she could be confident about where she was sending her client,” continues Lynes. Kasner uggling requires a sharp eye, questioned why coordination, patience and practice. such It is both a skill and an art. The professionals busker is polished—you or I would were not be lucky to keep all three torches in actively the air for longer than mere seconds. networking Think what you may: juggling doesn’t come with each naturally to everyone. We drive with cell other. Clients phones glued to our ears… we race from the are mobile, office to the gym… we shuttle the kids to and after all: from soccer practices. Our quality of life is Corporate compromised. Instead of vainly tossing yet types often jet more torches skyward, know that there is a to meetings in viable answer: a concierge. other cities… Most of us are familiar with the courteous other hotel concierge who assists guests. Few are of r cto Elan Lynes, dire countries. aware that the position has history behind it, . concierge élan Inc Research dating back to the Middle Ages. In those days, a and webcastle “concierge” kept the keys to each room surfing aside, who better than someone local to and made visitors comfortable. That role has recommend accommodation, restaurants and car since evolved to become a “personal assistant” with rentals? And so, Kasner created the NCA. The more—and different—responsibilities. Regarding services, “A lot of us will say: anything association, now 10 years old, has chapters in many U.S. cities and recently expanded into Canada. legal, moral or ethical,” laughs Elan Lynes, director
Rise of the concierge—
Now in Edmonton
By Rick Lauber
J
Lynes joined the Edmonton chapter and welcomes the benefits of the NCA’s networking, support and annual conferences. Laura Mitchell, president of Details Plus Lifestyle Management Inc.—soon to become Details Plus Lifestyle Concierge Inc.—also sees tremendous worth in the NCA. She, along with her daughter, Katie, will become members “…as soon as they have the next meeting,” enthuses the elder Mitchell. “It’s good for all of us in a similar business to be able to share ideas and things that we can improve. By belonging to an association, it will help us to rise to a level for ourselves and to educate us … I think it will be a good thing to be part of something that’s national.” While Lynes and the Mitchells serve two different client bases, there can be a crossover. With Details Plus clients, Mitchell explains, “We’re trying to focus on their homes and what is necessary to help their corporate lives… we’re making their homes run so their corporate lives can run smoother.” This often involves managing the home while a client is away on business, but there have been other requests. “We’ve picked up passports… taken cars in to be serviced… and picked up exam material for someone who had to study on the plane.” Not many castles remain today, but you can find concierges elsewhere: golf courses, personal health clubs and apartment buildings . “It really raises your value as a property owner,” says Lynes. Even the Edmonton Oilers have hired a concierge. Jill Metz, the team’s Family Liaison, has been with the team for three seasons. She works with newly-acquired players and their families to welcome them, ease their angst in what may be a difficult transition, and orient them to their new community. “It really started with an idea that Kevin [Lowe] had quite a few years ago that a lot more could be done for the family to integrate them both to Edmonton and Alberta,” explains Tandy Kustiak, Oilers’ human resources manager. “It’s been a tremendous resource. You think it sounds straightforward but, with coming from Europe or other countries, barely speaking the language, it’s very, very tough for them.” Now, other NHL teams are considering following suit. “This is a unique position to the NHL overall… many of the teams have been phoning and asking us why we set it up, what are the benefits and how it came about.” Whether you’re a star on ice or in the boardroom, save youself from stress. Leave the juggling to either a concierge or a busker… both are qualified professionals. √
Erickson College offers: Brain Based teaching on how the Human Brain actually works, and with that knowledge you can assist people to: • think and act more effectively; • Solve problems; • Generate new possibilities; • set SMART Goals –(Specific ,Measurable, Realistic & Timed); and much more… “ Whether you are an experienced manager of a large team or an individual contributor, if you believe in coaching and the power of asking questions to inspire and transform people, this course is for you. It has fundamentally changed my perspective on coaching and leadership and we will continue to use the Erickson team to help our company work together more effectively and to perform at a higher level.”
Tim Robinson Ph.D. Director, Corporate Leadership and Executive Development, CANADA POST.
Edmonton Coach Training Program Two Start Dates: Sept 9 and Oct 7
For further information call 1-800-665-6949 or e-mail: info@erickson.edu Erickson College also conducts this ACTP program via online distance learning.
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Summertime
social SCENE
Near the City Photos by Peter Von Hauff
Donna Von Hauff with Natasha on her lap is joined by lawyer–accountant-biz mogul Samy Salloum and Linda Hall. Donna is spending time with two Peruvian Paso horses born this Spring. Sired by her first stallion, El Zorro, one is called El Yuma and the other remains nameless. “They ride like a Rolls Royce,” enthuses the retired author and fund-raising executive. “I will train them for show and continue to breed until my husband, Peter, says it’s time to sell.”
“We’re staying at home this summer looking after our Green and Gold garden,” says the University of Alberta’s Chair, Board of Governors, Brian Heidecker. “That’s Jim Hole’s idea; he’s co-chairing the university’s centenary celebrations.” Brian, a former rancher is the “chief gardening expert among other things” on the Board and likes to project manage 2300 bedding plants out his back door.
Cathy Chomiak pilots her husband, John, around in her new toy at their farm near Moscow, Alberta. John raises Charolais and money for premiers of Alberta. He also heads up Hemisphere Engineering.
Dr. Raj Sherman is the parliamentary assistant for Alberta Health and Wellness and will be “working, working, working” this summer, says his constituency office manager, Mary Martin. Raj was in Boston last week attending an early childhood conference and is off to Halifax for a week in July. In the meantime, he spends one day every two weeks as an emergency doc at the Northeast Community Health Centre. “I look forward to selling raffle tickets for the Downtown Rotary Club at Capital Ex,” says jacket model Dr. Paul Byrne, president of Grant MacEwan College. Between speaking engagements in Quebec on the topic of educational leadership, Paul plans on staying close to home this summer. “And, oh yes,” says the road fan, “I really like the Rexall Indy, too.” Principal electrical engineer at Hemisphere Engineering Vern Mantai with Dr. Wayne Shillington, President of Norquest College, who’s vacationing all of July.
Lorraine and her husband, the pride of Vegreville, Don Mazankowski— for whom the Alberta Heart Institute was named—relax at a BBQ on the longest day of the year. Richard Furtak is on the right. Sharon MacLean with Louise Gray who took over marketing duties at Hemisphere Engineering from Barb Mantai. Barb spent 20 years at Hemisphere before deciding to marry Vern last year and retire.
ENTER TO WIN YOUR VERY OWN TRANSFORMATION! $40,000 Value!
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ENTER NOW! Contest closes: September 30, 2008 E-mail info@edmontonians.com or submit your entry to Edmontonians, C-100 Park Side Tower, 8920-100th Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6E 4Y8 Steffany Hanlen 6
Les Brost
* Winners must agree to having the story of their progress published in Edmontonians
Tom Bradshaw
Larry Ohlhauser EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________
Photos by Terry Bourque
The End is the Beginning with Steffany Hanlen
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f change was easy, more people would do it. If transformation was easy, I think we would all be much closer to living the lives we say we want. In order to be successful, you have to believe it is possible. To get from the daily grind to a life of your own design means habits, behaviours, communication skills and awareness must improve. This is not an option. The journey for Brent Taylor and Arlene Schilke began with an enthusiastic Brent “diving off the cliff” into a fivemonth long experience with the Transformers—almost as if he knew what he and his wife/business partner were getting into. Now I wonder: If they knew then what they know now, would they have taken on this challenge? They ‘said’ they wanted to transform their lives and business, but did they really mean it? My first meeting with the owners of Timewise Event Management Inc. came soon after they won the Edmontonians Transformers’ contest. We selected them for several reasons: The one that jumped out for me was that I saw a small business bursting at the seams with no real plan, direction or vision for growth. This excited me. This realization terrified them. At different times, each actually told me they were afraid of what this process might do to their lives. Whether it was working or not, they knew what to expect on a day-to-day basis. Trying to run a business without some sort of vision is not only an excuse for failing, it is exhausting. And they were both exhausted. They have not taken a vacation in years. Arlene stated that one of the goals she had for the next 12 months was to book a family holiday to Hawaii. Brent was dumbfounded and exclaimed, “Are you crazy?… that means we have to work even harder.” I had my work cut out for me. So, we met for more than three hours. Our time together was designed to begin the process of helping Brent and Arlene identify their core beliefs and start to create a vision for their lives based on balance between home and work.
As very committed and intense individuals, they are strong in their opinions about what each other needs to do… however, neither realized it might have been a good idea to talk about who would do what, by when and why. I didn’t expect their disturbing lack of communication. When asked, neither Brent nor Arlene had any idea how the other felt about their own roles in life or the role the other person had assumed at work or at home. The values exercise I asked them to complete brought up a series of unexpected emotions. Brent and Arlene, by virtue of their answers, both discovered they are more driven by their voids than motivated by things they value. This means they are working extremely hard to not fail… rather working smart to succeed. This leads to a fear based management-by-fire system of leadership that has them reacting to short term issues as they arise daily. The realization stopped them cold. They had been working in their business, and not on it—the classic treadmill trap of small business. During the next few months, I suggested books they
should read… helped them refine their vision… and answered a couple of e-mails to help clarify some of the key issues they still had. As the transformation process came to an end, we booked a final meeting to give their experience some closure. Both Arlene and Brent stated that the process had been “awesome”… that they have seen positive changes in each other. They told us they now attend to the business in a much more communicative and supportive way with each other and their staff. The important revelation for me was hearing that they are structuring their time around having a life balance in place that supports them, using the tools we recommended to help them keep growing and communicating more clearly and respectfully. The downside was that neither Brent nor Arlene committed to building their vision as part of an ongoing success plan: There is no trip to Hawaii booked and neither has added fitness to their daily or even weekly plan. Certainly, I wish Arlene and Brent all the best, but I’m disappointed they didn’t use the Transformers more when they had us at their disposal. Had I won a package like this, I know I would have been way more selfish, especially given its value beyond its dollar worth. And, since change is hard, why try and do that alone, too? Nonetheless, this has been a wonderful experience for me. I met two fantastic people with huge potential for success who were willing to give it their best shot. Brent and Arlene also see that the end of their transformation is just the beginning. √ Steffany Hanlen is a personal performance coach who conducts The Champion Seminars. Contact: shanlen@edmontonians.com
EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________
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Photo by Terry Bourque
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otivation is not an issue for Brent and Arlene. They are ambitious people from rural homes where hard work was a given, seeking success in their business and personal lives. Transformer Steffany Hanlen’s work has focused them on managing their business rather than having their business manage them. That leaves the last ingredient in the transformational recipe: courage. It takes courage to look inward to see the role we play in conflict… to take responsibility for our part… to discard old alibis. We must also be prepared to let go of false scripts. Are our partners and associates really behaving as they do because they want to be difficult? Could it be that their “emotional wiring” is playing a part in the situation? The foundation of successful conflict management is realizing we are all emotional beings with different “wiring”. Our challenge is to understand how to manage those differences and to react appropriately. Brent and Arlene differ significantly in their approaches to emotion. While both try to suppress the feelings driving conflict, their motives for doing so are poles apart. It is Brent’s preference to internalize and analyze conflict. He tends to “de-emotionalize” discord and treat it as an intellectual exercise. This is his default style of conflict management. Arlene works very hard to keep her emotions in check. Understandably, particularly in the business environment which often marginalizes women who show strong feelings. While Arlene has learned to repress her emotions, it is not her preferred conflict style. It takes tremendous concentration for her to maintain control in difficult situations. And, it’s energy-draining. Her powers of concentration are now being put to better use as she learns to “be easy” with her emotions. The first challenge Brent and Arlene faced was to understand how their different conflict
styles affect their relationship. Working with me, they have begun to recognize the dynamics of their own conflicts and see their individual roles in the situation. They have come a long way in achieving that understanding. Arlene’s awareness that, “…the things I say affect Brent more deeply than I realized” was a huge step forward. Brent now has a deeper understanding of the nature of conflict—especially its inevitability. Conflict often emerges because of our human tendency to judge others, and to react toward them in a manner consistent with our judgment. This is particularly true for people like Brent and Arlene who have a strong religious background. The Timewise duo is not unique. All of us play the judgment game and our conclusions say as much about us as they do about the object of our judgment. My Judgment Guide is a handy tool for self-assessment… a checklist I use when I find myself sliding down judgment’s slippery slope. I ask myself these questions: • Am I understanding before I judge? • Is it really necessary to judge this person? Do their beliefs or actions harm anyone but themselves? Is it my place to judge? • Do I listen to what my judgment says about me, more than what it says about others? • Am I judging large, when I should be judging small and specific? For all of us, the rush to judgment is a huge barrier to power listening, and to deeper understanding. Why bother to listen for understanding when we’ve already made up our minds? Arlene spoke of the internal shift that has occurred since she has begun to focus on putting herself in the place of others before going to judgment. Complex relationships bring added pressure—the more roles we play, the greater the potential for conflict. Arlene and Brent are lovers, spouses, parents and business partners. That’s about as complex and as challenging as it can get. It’s important that they have clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and mutually reinforce each other within their company. As parents, they understand the concept of “united we stand, divided our children play us against one another.” It’s the same basic concept for staff management. Brent and Arlene have certainly learned the importance of boundaries. It’s imperative that life partners who are also business partners define parameters around the different roles that are being played at any given moment. At our first meeting, I challenged them to monitor the times they “talked shop” in the bedroom. I asked them at our second meeting to note any shifts or insights that had occurred in the interval between the meetings. Arlene quickly responded, “We had no idea how much we were talking business in the bedroom!’ The more complex the relationship, the more imperative it becomes to develop strategies to manage the boundary issues and conflicts that emerge. Business pressures place huge stress on the loving relationship between couples who are also business partners, and business setbacks or failures can deal a fatal blow to personal relationships. Brent and Arlene are up to that challenge—they are an impressive couple. It was gratifying to work with people who have a strong work ethic, and a deep and powerful commitment to each other, their family and their business. Brent and Arlene are willing to do the ongoing heavy lifting that comes with personal and professional growth. The Timewise team is on their way to transformation. √
EmotionalWiring with Les Brost
Les Brost is head of Souther Star Communications. Contact: lbrost@edmontonians.com
EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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1
Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________
NaturalAbilities with Tom Bradshaw Photo by Terry Bourque
D
uring the Transformers original interview, Arlene and Brent presented vocal tendencies that would require a bit more investigation. Consequently, some fun vocal challenges were in order. Both had breathing issues and articulators that needed motivation. We discussed a number of issues related to speaking and the voice—from how to negotiate speaking protocol at conventions and seminars to proper pronunciation issues (schedule, skedule). Then I heard this common complaint: “Why is it that sometimes you meet with a prospective client… and you know that you are their perfect match. You explain your plan in detail and expect them to jump at your offer. What happens? They stare blankly, thank you for your time, and excuse themselves.” Sometimes you never had a chance. More often, the answer has to do with what happened, in the room. Perhaps the presentation missed the mark. We moved on. I gave Arlene and Brad a challenge: I asked them to tell me about themselves, Timewise and what role each plays in the company in a three- to fiveminute presentation. Arlene was up first and is a naturally gifted speaker. She has a strong voice, a great smile and skill as a writer. But, there were also some not so great things happening. The pace was very fast; there was a lack of effective phrasing and limited pausing. The result? Too many ideas were coming at us at once. We were being asked to consider ideas but not given enough time to think… our brains couldn’t keep up and our focus began to drift. Once Arlene lost us, it wasn’t easy getting us back. With Brad, it was a surprise to see the effect stepping in front of the camera had on the onetime cameraman. His tension rose, his voice retreated into the back of the throat and he became difficult to understand. Brad has the Canadian habit of inflecting up at the end of most sentences, turning statements into questions. This put his credibility at risk. His natural ability with humour helped make him likable but the verbalized pauses made his presentation difficult to follow. Brad’s gestures were generally good… but, during the second part of his presentation, his hands remained interlocked in a death grip, flying apart on the line “Well, that concludes my presentation.” Getting their points across, especially with the pressure on, was not easy. Giving smart people good information went a long way to getting this dynamic couple on track. Like most people, it is what they do not know that holds them back. A few weeks later, I spent time talking with Brent and Arlene and introducing them to a new tool designed to correct some of their speech sounds and improve their voices. At the final interview, Arlene’s speaking pattern had noticeably improved. There were a few times when the passion increased and speed took over but, more often, her words were well chosen. Generally, she expressed herself well. Brent has made great strides. He told us how simply marking places to pause in a speech helped his speaking at a conference. His voice has come along way but still recedes into the back of the throat at times. There is a battle to keep the sound coming forward
without it sliding into nasality. Both are works-in-progress and I hope they continue to apply the advice they have been given. As the other Transformers asked them questions regarding the experience, I listened to their voices, what they were saying and how they were saying it. While Brent and Arlene have grown and learned a great deal, they expressed some frustration that the process was wrapping up just when their schedules were becoming more open, and this training could really be more fully explored. Alas, I have noticed in my life that we meet teachers not when we are ready for them but when we need them. There is no doubt that the time spent with the Transformers affected their lives. The true test will be to see if it changes their lives. Over the next few months, they will have the opportunity to work on the T4 skills and to keep exploring and building everyday. If they can make these skills not something they are doing, but the way they are doing things, they will be on their way. √ Tom Bradshaw is the head of the Academy of Voice & Speech. Contact: tbradshaw@edmontonians.com
EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________
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In praise of the coach It’s not therapy By Laurel Vespi
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oaching is one of the fastest growing professions in the world, having gained increasing popularity in the past 10 years. This growth reflects people’s interest in personal development and organizations’ desires for advantages over competitors in a glo7l economy. Success stories have also contributed to the demand for coaching as people become aware of the tangible benefits that individuals and organizations experience when working with a professional coach.
WHAT IS COACHING? Coaching is an ongoing professional relationship that helps people produce extraordinary results in their lives, careers, businesses or organizations. Through the process, clients deepen their learning, improve their performance, and enhance their quality of life. Coaches partner with clients in a collaborative, thought-provoking and creative exchange that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaches are trained to listen, to observe and to customize their approach to individual client needs.
WHY HIRE A COACH? Individuals hire a professional coach for many reasons: to boost their career performance… to have higher-quality relationships… to improve health and wellness… to explore spiritual and personal fulfillment… or to set and achieve more ambitious goals. Organizations use coaching as a way to provide personal and professional development. Studies demonstrate that it produces more profound and longer-lasting results than just training and/or consultation interventions alone. At one time, coaching within organizations was primarily focused on remediating under-performance. Today, organizations partner with coaches for a wide variety of reasons: team and leadership development, change management, employee motivation and retention, workplace culture, and vision clarification.
HOW DOES COACHING WORK? Coaching can take place via telephone or in person, between
two and four times per month in meetings that last 30 to 60 minutes. In each meeting, the client chooses the focus of the session, while the coach listens, and contributes observations and questions. The coach provides structure, tools and support for clients to examine their assumptions and perceptions, identify obstacles and set goals. This interaction creates clarity and moves the client into action.
HOW DOES COACHING DIFFER FROM OTHER PROFESSIONS? Coaching is distinct from other professions in both the techniques and approaches used. Consultants are usually hired for the purpose of accessing specialized expertise. They usually diagnose problems and prescribe solutions. In general, the assumption with coaching is that clients are capable of generating their own solutions, with the coach supplying supportive, discovery-based approaches and techniques. Coaching can also be distinguished from therapy that deals with healing pain, dysfunction or conflict. The focus is typically on resolving difficulties arising from the past which hamper an individual’s emotional functioning in the present. Coaching, on the other hand, is forward moving and future-focused with emphasis on action and accountability related to personal or professional success. Mentoring is often confused with coaching. Mentors use their own experiences in a specific industry or area of career development to guide less experienced individuals. Although some coaches may mentor new coaches, they are not mentors to their clients.
WHAT SHOULD SOMEONE LOOK FOR WHEN SELECTING A COACH? Professional coaching is a self-regulated industry; there are no legislation or regulations governing who can use the title “coach”. With the increasing popularity of coaching, there has been a proliferation of people adding “coach” to their business cards. Many have not been formally trained in specific coaching skills and are simply transferring skill sets from other professions. Often, this results in an inadequate or ineffective coaching experience for clients. Coaching has its own unique skills and competencies.
Professional credentials in other areas do not mean that an individual has the skill set needed in effective professional coaching. Potential clients should be diligent in asking about coach-specific training and credentials. Certification comes from the International Coach Federation (ICF), the largest organization of professional coaches. It means the coach has received professional training from a program specifically designed to teach coaching skills in alignment with the ICF Competencies, and is accountable to the ethics and standards set forth by the ICF Code of Ethics. √
Need a coach? Questions to ask when hiring a coach: • What is your coach-specific training? • Do you hold an ICF credential, or are you enrolled in an ICF accredited training program? • What is your area of coaching specialty? • What specialized skills or experience do you bring to your coaching? • What is your philosophy about coaching? • What is your specific process for coaching? (How sessions are conducted, frequency, etc.) • What are some coaching success stories? (specific examples of individuals who have done well and examples of how value was added). For more information about coaching or to locate a trained coach in your area: International Coach Federation www.coachfederation.org Edmonton Association of Professional Coaches www.edmontoncoaches.com Laurel Vespi is a certified life coach and author of Spontaneous Combustion: Setting Your Life on Fire. She is the President of the Edmonton Association of Professional Coaches. Check out the Free Stuff on Laurel’s website where you can also receive free coaching tips and inspiration by subscribing to her newsletter, Inside the Circle. www.stonecirclecoaching.com
find a coach Yvonne Grabowsky, PHEc., CEC G & G A S S O C I AT E S Cell: Ph:
403-741-6447 780-372-4219
wygrabow@xplornet.com www.edmontoncoaches.com
Email:
Leadership, management and coaching experience in government with access to Emotional Quotient. Coaching focuses individuals on:
• • • •
How to develop in new positions Transitioning into leadership roles The “crisis of too much” Increased professional and personal success
A graduate of RRU Executive Coaching program with a BHEc from U of Manitoba
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EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________
Photo by Janis Dow
Fearing the Worst
with Dr. Larry Ohlhauser
O
ur meeting began with: “Good afternoon, my name is Dr. Ohlhauser. I am one of the Transformers.” “I know who you are. You scare me,” said Brent. Great way to start the interview. Later, Brent explained that he was concerned about his life-work balance and, in particular, his health. He was afraid he would flunk the wellness test. Arlene was eager to participate in the wellness assessment. Her biggest concern was finding time for herself while working in the business and raising three young children. The couple completed the self-assessment tool that I have used with literally thousands of people across North America. When answered truthfully, it provides an accurate snap shot of a person’s current health status with a focus on factors that include levels of exercise, quality of nutrition, sleep patterns, stress levels and capacity for leisure. Arlene and Brent got a wake up call. Brent was happy that his Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist measurement were better than he thought they would be. It became clear why he was scared of me when we reviewed the wellness factors of levels of exercise, quality of nutrition, stress and capacity for leisure, his scores were 2-4 out of 10. Not good. Arlene—doing double duty time in their business and household—scored better than Brent, but still in the danger zone: less than 4 out of 10 on the same wellness factors. The good news is that my wellness program doesn’t end with the evaluation. Brent and Arlene did what most smart
individuals do when faced with a reality check: They wanted to change… to become responsible for their wellness… to be the CEOs of their health. Change is a process that takes discipline. Their success in business indicates to me that they practice discipline while bringing change to their business. Now they had to learn to apply those same change processes to improve their health. First, Brent and Arlene learned how each’s factor can influence their health… and accepted that their attitude toward health was their responsibility. Arlene and Brent then developed specific goals to improve their health. Hers was “to have a BMI of 22 by the beginning of June.” His was “to have a level of exercise rating of 5 (out of 10) by the end of June.” They developed an action plan to take them to their goals, including milestones to measure their progress at 30, 60, and 90 days. The agreement was that I would hold them accountable to their action plan. Success at each milestone would be met with a reward that they could celebrate together. Independently, both Arlene and Brent developed very similar action plans that included purchasing a pedometer to monitor their goal of 10,000 steps a day… joining a fitness club… engaging a personal trainer to conduct a fitness assessment and provide advice on an exercise program… and working out three times a week. Arlene committed to spending three hours a week just for herself. Ninety days later, are Brent and Arlene moving forward on their quest for wellness and have they reached their goal?
A
Moving On EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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fter the final meeting and photo session between the Transformers and the Tranformees, Editor Barb Deters got an e-mail from Brent that said, “Thank you so much for being a part of this experience and helping to make us part of the Transformer experience. It has been an awesome ride.” So, Edmontonians asked Brent and Arlene to share their thoughts on their experience with the Transformers: “Over the past few months the Transformers have set us on a path that will take our personal lives and our company to new levels. As the owners of Timewise Event Management, we were apprehensive going into the transformation as we were unsure of what would be involved in the process. After our initial meetings with the Transformers, we found ourselves looking forward to the experience with great anticipation—and we were not disappointed. “Like every small business, we face a multitude of issues and have to continually innovate and seek new resources and solutions. It is also challenging to balance the exhausting demands of a young family in our personal lives with the growth of the business and addition of new employees. To make matters more complex, we are married and business partners… and the line between the two often blurs. “Our greatest lesson evolved from our time with Steffany Hanlen as we came to the realization that we need to work on the business rather than in the business. This has been a complete paradigm shift for us as we have had
Brent desperately wanted to improve his level of exercise, but explained, “This is our busy season, I just did not have the time. But what I now do, I read the nutrition labels on everything I pick up to ensure what kind of fat I am eating. Thanks, this process will make a difference, I need to rework my goals and plan smaller changes.” Arlene met her goal of achieving a BMI of 22. Great work. She agreed that spring had been a busy time for the business, but “…I took control and decided to put our health back into our lives. The pedometer was a very helpful accountability tool.” Both Brent and Arlene are now committed to truly getting back on track, as their business slows down through the summer, and to take more responsibility for their wellness. When you have the discipline to repeat a behaviour 21 days in a row, it becomes a habit. Brent is no longer “scared of me.” After his reality check, building his action plan and commitment to improving his health, he should get the success he desires. I’m confident Brent and Arlene can be the CEOs of their wellness. √ Dr. Larry Ohlhauser, MD, is the author of The Healthy CEO and president of Ohlhauser & Associaties. Contact: laohlhauser@edmontonians.com to rethink how we work. In a small business, it is easy to let the work distract from the attention the business needs. Now, we are taking steps to train and empower our employees to do more of the critical event logistics we have been doing ourselves. This is giving us the time we need to focus on what we should be working on: business structure and development. “Les Brost provided us a small piece of advice that has made a big difference in our personal lives and marital relationship. He asked us to make grand efforts not to discuss business in our bedroom. This gem helped us to take the focus off our business and to place it on us. Not only has this helped us to reduce our sleepless nights of anxiety, but we are taking more time to focus on our relationship, creating more intimacy and reducing conflict in our personal lives. “These are two small insights into the breadth of value the Transformers have added to our personal lives and our business. They have given us a firm foundation from which to take ourselves and Timewise Event Management to a whole new level. We look forward to further utilizing the relationships we have made with them—and the tools they have given us—to develop a bigger and brighter future for ourselves, our employees and our clients. “Thank you to the Transformers and Sharon MacLean’s Edmontonians for making us a part of this invaluable opportunity.” √ Brent Taylor & Arlene Schilke Timewise Event Management Inc. 11
Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________
C ivic Buzz with David Norwood
F
ollowing through on my
column last month, the urban village concept is becoming increasingly popular: What was old-fashioned is suddenly new again, and this time it looks as if it’s a trend that is here to stay. Century Park, Strathearn Village, Vision for the Corner in Glenora, the Village at Griesbach and downtown Edmonton itself are some of the developments that I highlighted in that column. All moreor-less characterize the urban village, which Wikipedia defines as a concept whose aims are “to create an environment in which... people can live
and work… is self-sustainable, is environmentally friendly [and] encourages community development and bonding. A key focus is selfsustainability, where people can live, work, shop and entertain in a single urban area.” One of the latest projects embracing the urban village concept is the $450 million St. Albert Village, which St. Albert City Council approved unanimously at its meeting in late May. The project, to be built out over the next five- to seven-years, will become home for up to 2,000 residents. It will include low-rise townhomes as well as five highrise towers of 15- to 19-stories, and commercial and retail space. The Village
M
edia Minute with Bruce Hogle
Canada is 139 years old. I was delighted that Isabel Gauthier of Edmonton took the opportunity to speak glowingly about our flag and remarkable country at a Daughters of The Nile— phenomenal supporters of Shriners Hospitals—convention last month in Seattle. She pointed out that the Maple Leaf Flag, proclaimed in 1965, represents our nation’s unity without distinction of race, belief opinion or language. The Trudeau era later established Canada as bilingual. With a backlog of one million immigration applications, we will eventually become more multicultural than bilingual. I have no concerns about the influx of immigrants. But Public Policy Forum President Jodi White says fear of being misunderstood as antiFrench or anti-English is keeping Canadians from engaging in an overdue 12
Urban Village Embrace the concept community: It’s the first high-rise development Saint City has seen. Another project that comes close to embracing the urban village concept is Bellwether Park, comprising some 750 homes in northwest Edmonton. Instead of being self-contained, however, the development takes advantage of the mature Athlone neighbourhood’s proximity to existing amenities: grocery stores, restaurants, pubs, specialty shops, schools (K to 12) and playgrounds, as well major retailers such as Costco, Best Buy and Home Depot, along 137th Avenue. Described as “family-oriented,” Bellwether Park is high density without being high rise. Most of the units are in St. Albert Village... four-storey apartment buildings, while the remaining units comprise two- and three-floor townhomes. Designed by Rositch Hemphill Architects, with interiors by False Creek Design Group, both of Vancouver, this project is proving to be a popular concept—an urban village of sorts with a twist. While the housing market in Edmonton—and Alberta in general—has slowed, demand still exists for good quality, well-designed properties. Century Park is well underway with a third tower crane erected on site in midJune. Urban planner Armin Preiksaitis, who is involved with many of metro Edmonton’s urban village concepts, l al M n Grandi suggests that initial ...will replace work on Strathearn Village should commence in the spring of 2009, while engineering work and detailed architectural design for Vision on the Corner is about to commence, and development permit applications are being prepared.
will replace Grandin Mall, which will be torn down in phases. The development has been designed in such a way that its highest density units are furthest away from existing residential neighbourhoods, yet the site sits virtually in the heart of the city, with many existing amenities located in close proximity. St. Albert Village is being developed by Amacon, a successful Vancouverbased property firm with major condominium and redevelopment projects in Vancouver, Surrey, Port Coquitlam, Montréal, Toronto, Los Angeles and Mississauga. This is the
world, including industry giants such as Warner Brothers, Ogilvy of New York and the PGA Tour at the recent 29th Annual Telly Awards in New York. Dynacor won a prestigious Silver Telly statuette for its high definition production, Dig a Little Deeper in the Canadian Badlands, created for and currently used by Alberta Tourism, Parks & Recreation to promote travel to this unique tourism destination. “It’s an amazing piece of hardware to put on your shelf,“ says managing director Terri Dorn. She also brought home five bronze statuettes for outstanding creative achievement in safety, public relations, multimedia, education, as well as travel and tourism. Especially significant was that Dynacor won an award in almost every category it entered. Each entry is judged on its own merit against a standard of excellence; more than 75 percent of entries receive no award, and only seven to 10 percent win the highest honour; a Silver Telly, designed and minted by the same company that produces the Emmys and Oscars. Dynacor Media also received a recent award for Best Digital production from the Alberta Motion Picture Industry Association. To view the winning entries, visit www.dynacormedia.com.
The new Sobey’s Urban Fresh is proving very popular with downtown dwellers. The store is more than a grocery destination; not only can people purchase everyday food and other items, but there’s an amazing selection of fresh fish, exotic meats (kangaroo burgers, anyone?), a huge variety of cheeses, deli meats, food prepared to go (including pizza baked in a sizzling pizza oven). Sobey’s also includes a bistro, where one can relax with some food, a glass of wine or a beer. Look for a second Urban Fresh to open this fall in College Plaza, where Organic Roots used to be located. √
Edmonton-based Dynacor Media company’s first foray into Alberta. Construction of the first phase could begin this coming winter or next spring. St. Albert Village also represents a major departure for our neighbouring
did us proud in the Big Apple, bringing home six international awards honouring the best in television, video and film production. Its entries were among 14,000 submissions from around the
national debate about bilingualism. She feels this policy must come in line with the vast number of immigrants whose first language is neither French nor English. That’s why I deplore the cheap racist shot that Quebec separatist writer Victor-Levy Beaulieu used in describing Governor General Michaelle Jean as a “Negro queen”. That came about after Jean suggested the French should look beyond Quebec to the one million francophones in the rest of Canada who struggle to preserve their language and culture. Jean’s feelings were echoed by Denis Perreaux of L’association canadienne-francaise de l’Alberta. Acknowledging there are 22,000 francophones in Edmonton—from Quebec, Congo, Haiti and Burundi— Perreaux said: “We have to change the mindset from being a French-Canadian community to being a francophone community.” I also have no idea what Beaulieu
thinks of current Montreal Canadiens coach Guy Carbonneau. Before he returned to Montreal, Carbonneau had to join the Dallas Stars. Why? Because Quebec would not allow his teenage daughter to attend an English-speaking high school since she was a francophone. Earlier this year, a Leger Marketing poll revealed Quebecers are more comfortable with people of their own ethnic origin and more likely to think minorities weaken their culture. That was followed by the long-awaited Bouchard-Taylor report on the integration of immigrants in Quebec: It stated, among other things, that minorities are seeking employment in that province much more than accommodation. Having started my journalism career with Canada’s first bilingual station— Sudbury: two hours English/two hours French—I pride myself on having many bilingual friends. But I see no difference between Louis Desrochers,
David Norwood is a freelance writer/editor. Contact dnorwood@edmontonians.com Jim Edwards and Louis Douville all being able to speak French and English than I do with Tony Cheung being able to speak English and Mandarin, Willie Littlechild speaking Cree and English, or Premier Ed Stelmach conversing in Ukrainian and English. I love that Governor General Jean overcame skeptics when she first got this position and has proven to be a remarkable visionary and wonderful spokesperson for all Canadians. She reminds me of another favourite GG, Quebec-born Georges Vanier, who espoused the creed: “I am not English, I am not French. I am a Canadian!” Isn’t that what’s most important in our discussion on language? √ Bruce Hogle is the former news director at CFRN TV and recently retired head of the Alberta Press Council. Contact bhogle@edmontonians.com EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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corporate ETHICS
’Tis the Season of Graduation By Nizar J. Somji
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s proud parents (including yours truly), we spend a better part of the month of June in various graduation ceremonies, listening to speeches from a wide range of individuals, including those being recognized for lifetime achievements. As I sat through some of these speeches, I recognized a prevailing theme: Times have changed and the future facing today’s graduates is very different than the future their parents found. One of the main differences is in the struggle of “uncertainty.” Twenty-five or 30 years ago, the level of uncertainty was much less than today’s youth face. We had the luxury of an established, proven path for new graduates to take. Few would deviate from this path and, in most cases, there was little to no risk involved with following it. Today’s youth lack that established path. They are faced instead with numerous options, each with its own set of opportunities, challenges and levels of uncertainty. Gone are the days where one would drive through life… changing careers maybe two or three times… ultimately, riding into the sunset at the end of an illustrious career and a lifetime of achievement. At the Ivey Business School at the University of Western Ontario, the keynote speaker also spoke of global uncertainty. This uncertainty, he suggested, was rooted in the pace of global growth and its impact on the environment. This uncertainty was further compounded by global political instability, global terrorism and global growth in capitalism. With more of the world’s population wanting more “stuff”, the cycle of capitalism and
consumption and the impact on the environment continues to accelerate. The key accelerant to this cycle is easy access to and mass proliferation of data globally. Thus the pace of change and the breadth of uncertainty continually advance. Consider the price of oil. While the whole world is focused on the change in price, it is not the change itself that is astounding, but the speed of change. Clearly, global oil supply, reserves and consumption, cannot possibly change at the same pace as the price of oil. So what drives the price? Analysts continually gather data: Oil supply, reserves, expected production, stability (or instability) of various oil producing regions, expected increase (or decrease) in demand, etc. They analyze this data to determine trends and anticipate the future. This anticipation can lead to speculation which, when driven by greed creates massive price swings, results in immense wealth for some and despair for others. There are interesting dimensions to this process: • Each analyst uses a different model, giving different levels of importance to the data, resulting in sometimes differing results, not so much in magnitude, as in the rate and pace of change. • The situation changes, sometimes long before the forecast actually materializes. This changes the anticipated outcome, thus adding momentum to the swings. • Different organizations (or countries or people) have varying ability to either capitalize on the swings or to protect themselves from them, which contributes to further uncertainty in the global market place.
It is interesting to note that the organizations that these oil analysts and economists work for (be it banks, or investment houses or the like) often end up as the largest beneficiaries of these swings, since without the swings they have no income. Unless of course greed permeates (as it did with the mortgage crisis), and then everyone has to pay the price. The proliferation of data not only impacts world-wide business, but also the mental health of the masses. One of the fastest growing societal ailments is anxiety. Anxiety hits those who have the innate ability to anticipate hard, especially because they perceive consequences, many of which are not real, nor possible. Unfortunately, there is no school that teaches you how to decipher and interpret this world of mad data: What is real… what will likely change… what is the range or time span for the change… and, ultimately, how to make the right decision, at the right time and for the right reason. Our graduates of today must develop the skills and ability to anticipate, understand and solve “real” challenges and problems while, at the same time, avoid getting caught up in the cycle of speculation and greed. Congratulations to the class of 2008! √ 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.
One breath my space For Young Entreprenuers away from fit
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reath is essential to life. Breathing is one of the foundations of a good work out and, done properly, is part of good technique that helps increase the flow of oxygen to your muscles, allowing them to work harder and repair themselves faster. A fellow who knows this better than most is Len Panchuk, owner of Breathe Personal Training and Fitness. Len graduated with a Masters in plant biotechnology and molecular biology from the University of Alberta in 2001. Two years later, disenchanted with the “lab life” of a scientist, he focused on building his physical training clientele and doing personal training full time. When I asked Len about his favourite mistake, surprisingly and without hesitation, he said “My Masters degree for sure. You don’t know until you know. I knew that it (science) wasn’t what I wanted to do… but going through the program taught me the skills that I have since used to start my business. It’s not the specifics you learn, but the process.” The experience helped him achieve his dream of owning a gym. In early 2004, he opened Shape In Up Personal Fitness, just off Whyte Avenue. Len attracted clients looking to focus not only on weight loss but also on an overall philosophy of feeling great about themselves, sticking to their workout plan and consistently fitting that plan into their lives. With the mentorship of David Dorward and Don MacDonald, Len’s business grew. He wanted to build his business without sacrificing time with his two small children, which meant having more space to hire more trainers. The opportunity arose when he purchased Breathe from owners Chris Ring and Scott Ogonoski
earlier this year, and moved into a bigger space on Whyte Avenue and Calgary Trail. From a marketing perspective, the Breathe Personal Training and Fitness logo—a person over a workout tool called a Bosu—is easily recognizable and visually communicates the brand very well with its fluid, runner-like look. Len understands that his success is dependent on how well he builds and maintains his relationships… with clients, trainers and others in the
By Erin Rayner
talking, perhaps he can launch a new class or program with some fanfare, or host an event to recognize referral partners who have helped grow his business. With a few deep breaths, Breathe will continue on the right track.√
BREATHE’S TOP THREE Tips for staying fit while travelling We don’t always have a say about where we go or when if we travel for business… but just because we’re on the road doesn’t mean our fitness regime has to fall by the wayside. Here are Len Panchuk’s tips for staying fit while traveling:
community who focus on fitness (chiropractors, massage therapists, physio therapists). Although some direct mail or strategic advertising could help build brand awareness, it will be word of mouth that makes or breaks his business. Over coffee, we pondered how to get people talking. One of Len’s goals is to offer classes and to develop programming to keep the whole family fit. He sees his gym becoming a hub for the community. To get people
1. Plan but be flexible. Build an exercise plan, based on using your own body weight, that is flexible enough to adapt to available equipment. 2. Eat well and get enough sleep. Be consistent with your exercise plan by making healthy food choices and getting sufficient rest. 3. These shoes were made for walking. If you take one extra thing with you on the road, make it your running shoes, because you can walk or run almost anywhere. It’s also a great way to get to know the area you’re visiting. √ Erin Rayner is president of ED Marketing and Communications Inc. You can submit marketing materials for review; suggest young entrepreneurs to be profiled; nominate a Top Three; or ask a business developement question. Contact erayner@edmontonians.com
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lifestyles LIVELY
Picnic...
or pique-nique? MENU
Magic
It’s whatever you want it to be
with Chef John Berry
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or some, picnics can be a royal pain... for others, it’s a feast on wheels. Let’s look back to the Victorian era. Back then, picnics in the outdoors differed little from sumptuous feasts in elegant dining rooms. It is whatever you want to make it. My favourite is still a French loaf, several wonderful cheeses, some apples, grapes and strawberries, a bottle of champagne or wine, some chocolate and voila—a simple, fun summertime picnic. Whatever you want to do food wise, there are a few precautions to keep in mind... First, refrigeration is a must. You don’t want your potato salad, or any other dish with a cream sauce, mayonnaise or raw eggs— anything that can cause food poisoning if it’s not kept cold—left in a hot car on a Sunny Alberta day. Be especially careful with raw hamburger. Make sure your cooler contains ice, or use a portable mini-fridge that plugs into your car lighter. Instead of bagged ice cubes, I fill an old milk jug or pail with water and freeze it for at least three days. It’s the best way to ensure your cooler stays cold for a long time. Also, freeze juices the night before and they’ll be ice cold when served. Secondly, pack compactly. Your cooler should hold all perishables: salads, sauces, creams, meat, fish, and desserts. A cardboard box or plastic storage bin will handle plates, cutlery, napkins, buns, unopened condiments, chips and so on. If cold storage is a problem, pack foods that don’t need to be chilled: peanut butter and/or jelly/jam sandwiches in plastic baggies... dried/tinned fruit snacks and nuts... cookies and crackers... fresh fruits. To avoid viruses and bacteria during prep and serving, keep work surfaces, utensils and containers clean. Hand washing is a must so take some towelettes. Use disposable plates and cutlery for easier clean-up. It’s imperative to fully cook all your meats and fish. Never partially cook meat to be finished later: This allows bacteria to grow, some of which produce toxins. People have died from e-coli. Cook hamburgers until the juices run clear, and serve them right away. If you are uncertain, simply cut into a burger to check. Don’t leave food out longer than one hour. Ideally, return cold foods to the cooler right after serving. Hot
with Linda Bodo foods should be kept hot or refrigerated to avoid the growth of harmful bacteria. The picnic Linda Bodo and I had with editor Barb Deters is a good example. After preparing our Ultimate Mushroom burgers, they went right on the grill, were thoroughly cooked and eaten right away. Our vinaigrette and salad fixings were held in the cooler until served. Leftovers went back into the cooler immediately. Have a wonderful, safe and exciting summer. Cheers!
ULTIMATE MUSHROOM BURGERS 1 1/2 lbs ground beef, bison, moose, elk or venison 4 Portobello mushrooms, 3-4” across 1 finely diced shallot (or 1/4 purple onion) 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbs. Dijon mustard 2 Tbs. soya sauce 1/2 tsp sea salt 4 hamburger buns 4 lettuce leaves 4 large white button mushrooms ketchup 4 pcs. apple wood smoked cheese 1 egg • Wipe the Portobello mushrooms with a damp cloth. Remove the stem and brown gills and discard. In a small bowl, mix 1 Tbs. of mustard, oil, 1 Tbs. soy sauce, and pepper. Liberally brush over both sides of the mushrooms. • Finely chop the button mushrooms. Set aside. • In a medium bowl, mix ground beef with remaining mustard, soy, shallot, chopped mushrooms, pepper and one egg. Shape into 3/4-inch thick patties. • Grill the Portobellos over direct medium high heat until tender. Turn occasionally and baste with the mustard sauce. • Grill hamburgers over medium high heat until well done. Place a piece of smoked cheese on top. When cheese is melted, place burger on bun with a dollop of ketchup. Top with a Portobello and lettuce. Serve with salad. Enjoy! √ Contact Chef John Berry at jberry@edmontonians.com Check www.edmontonians.com for Chef John’s Apple Vinaigrette to give zing to a green salad and apple slices; and Linda Bodo’s picnic projets and recipes.
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a pique-nique debuted in 17th-Century France. Oddly enough, these first excursions occurred indoors and were a precursor to the potluck affair. Piquer translates to pick or peck at food… and nique is a term used to describe something small. The double barrelled pique-nique signified a fashionable gathering where guests contributed to the occasion with canapés, crudités and champagne. After the French Revolution in 1789, royal parks opened to the public and picnicking became a popular activity. A couple of centuries later, the picnic migrated to England during Queen Victoria’s reign, where the tradition continued in mossy woodlands or on estate lawns, resplendent with fine china and crystal. They were lavish affairs—sumptuous foods: a variety of meats, game and poultry… fresh salads, vegetables and lobster…. savoury pastries, pies and tarts, fruits, cakes and biscuits… wine, champagne and, of course, tea. And a kerosene burner, used solely for boiling the water. Today, the picnic is the perfect compromise between the concrete jungle and nature. Choose the right spot—neither too close nor too distant. Picnickers should feel well removed from their usual environment, but not exhausted by the journey. Food and drink should be easily stored, transported and enjoyed with a minimum of fuss. As a salute to its French creators, celebrate your next pique-nique with a Provençal-style setting that would inspire Monet. Repurpose an oilskin tablecloth into a sail to elude sun or rain and suspend it with bungy cords. Use wooden crates to haul accoutrements or unperishables to the site, then flip them over for seats. Comfy cushions can pad bottoms. Replace the ubiquitous gingham throw with a subtle Provençal print and adapt wine crates as trays lined with placemats and napkins. For evening affairs, add votives nestled in canning jars hung from branches Keep water, wine or pop bottles from spilling with simple spiral holders fashioned from chain link fence wire. Empty tuna cans do double-duty as votive holders, olive oil tins as wine coolers, and tomato cans as vases for freshly picked wildflowers. Ultimately, a picnic depends not so much on food as on mood. At the heart of the matter is the ambience created by a happy coincidence of good grub, the right setting and great company. Santé! √ Contact Linda Bodo at lbodo@edmontonians.com or visit www.absolutebodo.com.
Slimming Secret! Lose 4 to 20 inches in an hour! A hot new detoxifying body wrap!
Why it works? The wrap detoxifies the body. The body can get overloaded with toxins because it cannot keep up with the filtration process. The more toxins in the body, the more lymphatic fluid increases to protect cells. You force out toxins. Once the toxins are gone, the lymphatic fluid decreases and you lose inches. It is not water loss—rather, an exchange of minerals for toxins.
That’s a Wrap! Call Linda Perras at Suddenly Slimmer Day Spa
780.459.3444 pedicures. manicures. facials. aroma therapy message
www.suddenlyslimmerdayspa.com 14
EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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Create a sail to ward off rain or shin from oilskin cloth. Fortify corners with interfacing and fold fabric for a two inch hem. Add large grommets. Fly canopy with bungy cords between tree trunks. The elasticised cords allow cloth to move with the wind omitting the need for slits in the fabric.
Repurpose tins or cans
Crates used for hauling picnic fare play double duty as comfy seating when paired with cushions
Wine crates cease precarious balancing acts with knees, plates and glasses
EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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ACQUISITIONS, DIVESTITURES & CORPORATE FINANCE with Stephen W. Kent, CA (780) 441-6793
Blood—thicker than water Greed—thicker than both Most private company owners fulfill a dream when their children join their business. As these children mature and participate in the challenges of running family operations they rise through the ranks and often become partial owners of the companies. However, we have found with family owned businesses there is rarely a shareholders agreement that clearly determines the rights of each shareholder or what happens if shares are sold in family businesses. One father ran his business for many years. His son helped him while attending high school and joined the company full time upon graduation. The son took on increasing responsibility until the father let go of the reins completely. By this time company operations had expanded into a variety of areas which involved several subsidiaries owned by the father, the son or both of them. The arguments began when an offer was made to purchase the entire business. How was the value to be allocated to each subsidiary? The father felt that the son owed everything to him; the son believed that without him the company would have failed years before. The inhouse disagreement escalated and the situation turned ugly. The buyer eventually walked away from the deal. Another family business had a problem when the eldest son became the company president. He wanted to buy-
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out his parents and two siblings who had been given shares in the company but did not participate in the operation of the business. An independent valuation was made and a deal was struck with his parents and one of his siblings. The other sibling didn’t like the valuation and wanted more. The deal never closed. As a result some family members no longer speak to each other. The company was eventually sold at a discount to a third party. In another case a founding father retired and left the running of his business to his daughter while retaining significant ownership shares with his two children. The daughter who ran the business decided she had had enough and wanted to sell the company. Her father and sibling who enjoyed the financial benefits of ownership were opposed to the sale as they enjoyed a good lifestyle financed by the profits of the company. The dutiful daughter felt trapped, believing she had an obligation to her family and no way out. Structure your business properly. Always have a unanimous shareholders agreement in place even if all the shareholders are related. If you need help structuring your business for sale please call me.
EDMONTONIANS JULY 2008
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Proof__ _________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________