Edmontonians Mar08

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with Muggsy, Marty & Mark

T

here are times when it doesn’t matter

how smart you are, your brain quits working.

This happened during that -400 weather we had a month or so ago. After work, I went out to start my car in the parking lot at the insurance office — five stories up on the roof. The key wouldn’t work in any door. I had my car washed a few days earlier so I thought my locks had frozen. I laid my briefcase on the hood... got a book of matches to warm the key but it was windy as heck. Next I tried using an old coffee cup as a shield—all I did was burn my finger. My parking space is above Webber Motors so I borrowed a can of lock spray which worked like a hot damn. But, part way home, I remembered my brief case; it wasn’t on the windshield. I thought it had slipped off. Dr. Ollie and I went back to see if we could find it but to no avail. When I got home I had a phone call from a gentleman who had found it on his windshield, opened it and found my day-timer and called. I couldn’t quite figure how everything had come about until I walked up his driveway and spotted his car—the same make and exact colour as mine. I’d been trying to open his car with my key.

Because of our busy schedules, Dr. Ollie and I have a standing date every Friday night. We often take in a movie at the City Center Empire Theater. Afterwards we go to the next door restaurant for a bite to eat. I love Bangers and Mash but they took it off the menu. But if I talk to server Nina, she makes sure they make it for me. How nice is that? Thanks, Nina—love those Bangers and Mash.

It must be my month to look helpless. Our dog Cue is still young enough that we have to puppy proof the place before we go out. He can reach about three feet up to sweep everything onto the floor where he can chew it. Cue managed to destroy my new, fairly expensive sun glasses.

Here’s the good part: I had bought them at the Eddie Bauer store in Kingsway so I dropped by to ask if they knew where I could get them repaired. Assistant manager Kristen Dowkes laughed and said she had good news. Off she went and came back with a brand new pair—no charge.

Apparently it’s Eddie Bauer policy to stand by their products. Now, isn’t that the kind of company we should support?

When you buy a silent auction item at the Meals on Wheels fundraiser, you never know what surprises are in store. Dr. Ollie and six of our friends picked up a cooking lesson from Chef Gail Hall. She has appeared on television, written books, has a regular radio show, leads cooking tours, and gives about 25 personal cooking lessons a year. The home is interesting: built in 1912, burned down in 1913 and re-built in one year. It’s a four storey brick structure with massive wood beams.

Gail is like a conductor in a food symphony: Everyone has a task, everything is mixed, everything smells wonderful. We all sat down at a beautifully set table… The wine is poured and explained by Gail’s husband, Jon, who also helped with cleaning up. Lovely evening.

held tight until he would catch his breath and they’d be off again. Limitations were more challenges than obstacles.

Thanks to many kind people and organizations, Evan was ecstatic when he went with his family on his Make a Wish trip to Disney World.

Evan became a national celebrity after his Glenn Procedure. The Stollery Children’s Hospital was featured Got this photo and a note from Rob Seidel, during a press conference on the statistical success of heart national managing partner with Davis LLP. That’s none surgeries performed at the hospital. The press fell in love other that Her Imperial Highness Takamodo of Japan with artist Ted Collier and Rob. The occasion was the 10th with him and his amazing story. Evan wasn’t impressed with the attention. For the next three years, his quality of anniversary of Davis’ office in life was improved by his first open heart Japan, and it was held at the surgery. Evan’s second complicated openCanadian Embassy in Tokyo. heart procedure did not provide the hoped It’s the only Canadian law for results and he struggled for the next six firm with an office in Japan. months.

The artwork is called When asked what he wanted to be when Mountain Mist and was he grew up, Evan would reply, “I am going sponsored by Davis for the to be a superhero!” And he did become a true Princess to use in developing superhero to his friends and family. His funding and relationships Ted C—Rob S an d grandparents said, with the Prince Takamodo Imperial Highnes s Takamodo “What a wonderful Foundation, located at the life the family shared UofA. with a remarkable little guy. In between Dr. Ollie and I attended the Edmonton birth and death, there Glenora Rotary Club’s Have-a-Heart Dinner and is life.” Sadly, Auction at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. About 200 inevitably, Evan patrons dressed to the nines for the fundraiser. This was passed away from a a lot of fun—what with my fellow columnist Mark massive stroke on July Scholz taking on the auctioneering duties. He’s really 22, 2006 after being very good and he can run up the bids very sneakily. The taken off life support. president of the Club is Councilor Jane Batty and the To celebrate their co-chairs of the event were Leslie Beard and Penny grandson’s life, they Omell PHF. The Glenora Rotary Club was originally have established The women only in the charter, but they opened up to a lot of Evan Ty Jenkins hen pecked men who immediately felt at home—relax, Pediatric Research that’s a joke! The membership is now approximately Evan Ty Jenkins Foundation, operating 70/30 percent women to men. as Treasure Life.

We were seated with Northland’s general manager Grandmother Judy Ken and Kathy Knowles, and The Sutton Place Hotel Chapman (who was with Cowan Graphics for many GM Richard and Vivien Wong. Some lively conversation years) e-mailed an update on their plans for a golf about Champ Car races and Capital Ex. tournament May 29th at the Coloniale in Beaumont. A walk for school kids in Beaumont is on May 30th, Evan’s Life is often measured in days, weeks, months birthday. and, in the case of Evan Ty Jenkins, seven short but Call Grandpa Rick Chapman at 990-6120, or Nana impactful years. Evan was born in 1999 with a complex Judy at 686 6187 or e-mail tlife@telus.net to offer your congenital heart disease. His conditions included but were support: 100 percent of net proceeds will be used for not limited to dextrocardia, asplenia, midline liver, TAPVD, cardiac kids or research. The website www.treasurelife.ca is DORV, ASD, VSD, pulmonary stenosis, hypoplastic left ventrical, single AV valve. His whole family had to get their under construction, but keep it in mind. √ heads around accepting that he would never be the same as other boys growing up. But Evan did get the sensations of Call Muggsy Forbes at 780.482.4545 running, playing football by being carried on the shoulders or e-mail mforbes@edmontonians.com of others. When blue lips were most evident, Evan was

EDMONTONIANS MARCH 2008

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s I mentioned in last months’ column,

I headed down to Phoenix for some R + R time, which included some great motorcycle riding, the Super Bowl and the FBR Phoenix Open Golf Championship.

I traveled with my wife Kim, and our Team 1260 Sports Director Bryn Griffiths. Bryn got the two of us media accreditation so we didn’t have

Kim and Marty to pay the exorbitant prices that Joe Public did for some of these amazing events. Tickets for Super Bowl XLII were being scalped from about $2500 to $4000 each… Entry fee to the exclusive Playboy Party, $2,000… John Travolta and Snoop Dog’s party, $1500… The NFL wives fashion show, $750.

The biggest freebie was a live Counting Crows concert, followed by a major fireworks show that was held at Tempe Town, smack dab in the middle of the University area.

At the FBR Classic, they broke a one-day attendance record: 178,000 people. That would be like putting the population of Regina on a golf course. Sitting on the side of the famous 16th hole,—where the raucous crowd cheers and boos and the likes of The Press Gallery Bernie Robitaille and Pete Kozial held court—you could watch private jets landing at the Scottsdale airport virtually every two minutes.

These two events have a massive impact on the Phoenix economy, and projected to bring in approximately $400 million that week. Hotel rooms charged around $500 a night, with a four-night minimum. Taxi rides from Scottsdale to the Super Bowl and back set you back $125 so you can see it’s a rich man’s week.

By the way, as we continue to discuss Edmonton’s potential downtown arena—or, as I prefer to call it, the ‘entertainment complex’—it should be noted that Phoenix has four major league teams in the area including NFL, NHL, baseball and NBA franchises. Each has its own individual stadium.

The baseball stadium actually has a swimming pool behind the outfield wall. The $500-million NFL stadium, which is on university land, has a grass field that is on a moving tray. The field is moved out onto the parking area all week long to be maintained and then moved in to the stadium for NFL or university games. The roof not only opens but also can be adjusted sideways so that the sun doesn’t beat down on patrons during a game. The hockey arena has a fabulous centre court with tons of restaurants, a stage for live bands, two hotels, a convention centre, shopping area, massive fountains, and probably the best sports bar I’ve ever seen.

The economic impact of these teams and their facilities is obviously huge to the city, and they say that the Super Bowl will, most likely, be awarded to Phoenix about every sixth or seventh year.

Weather was described as ‘chilly’ at 60º F when I left Phoenix, and I stepped off the plane to minus 30 C. Ouch.

Upon return I treated my daughter Lauren to a birthday dinner at Ruth’s Chris in the World Trade Centre Edmonton. If you haven’t been to this gem of a restaurant, you’re missing a fine experience. General Manager Brian Welsh and his staff know the meaning of first class—a truly wonderful place to spend an evening or do lunch.

During dinner we were talking about old friends, and the name Bobby Curtola popped into my mind. Kim worked with Bobby for several years. As we stepped out of the restaurant guess who we bumped into? Yup: Bobby’s just moved back to town after a few years in Halifax. He always has interesting opportunities on the go. I’ll update you on what he’s involved with now in a later column.

Last month I told you about the upcoming CRTC hearings for another FM licence in our city. The process is now closed and a few well-known local media types threw their hats into the fray this time around.

Don Kay has been working in media for many, many years, having toiled for my father at CHED early on in his career. Another Edmonton/Phoenix gentleman who has applied is John Yerxa. John owns and runs a wellrespected research company and is also a radio brat. His father, the late Hal Yerxa, was the owner of CFCW and CKRA. As I run competitive properties here in town, I certainly have to be cautious with my thoughts; however as a columnist for Edmontonians, I think you can see where my allegiance would fall if the CRTC awards another licence. The hearing should be later this summer, with a decision in the fall, and potential on-air date about this time next year.

Finally, from my trip down south, I found out where our Alberta ducks go when they fly south for the winter. √

food, live entertainment, live and silent auctions and an incredible guest speaker will round out the evening. For information and tickets contact Sylvie or Crystal at 780.488.2266 or at skeane@alzheimer.ab.ca

What is ihuman you ask?... Well, the ihuman

From Monday to Friday, March 10th to 14th,

W

ell, here’s hoping March comes in

like a lamb and goes out the same way.

Bring on longer days, shorter shadows, warmer weather, and St. Patty’s Day. Time to get out and about and give ’til it hurts… I have a few suggestions.

students and faculty from the UofA School of Business participate in 5 days for the Homeless. No disposable income—their only source of cash will come from begging and bottle picking. Food will have to come from donations.

They’ll sleep outside around campus while still attending and/or teaching classes. This is a fundraiser for the Youth Emergency Shelter Society started here in 2005 and has now spread to eight other campuses across Canada. Its dual mission is to heighten awareness of the growing issue of homelessness and to raise monetary donations for various organizations.

But first I have to tell you a story… My StepGrandfather Jesse Parsons spent many years working as a driller in and around Newfoundland with the Macnamara Construction Company. He blasted tons of rock in order to build countless miles of roads including parts of the Trans Canada Highway. Jesse was a wonderful man and I truly miss him.

Flashback: Many years back, we were taking a drive in Halifax on one of my grandparents visits to my hometown.

There was some fine country music on the radio, Marty Robbins as I recall, when Jesse suddenly turned to me and said, “Tom, hang a left here and head up to the dynamite shack. We have to grab a load for that damned stubborn stretch.” Not wanting to confuse the conversation coming from left field, I became his winger Tom and off we went.

“Sure Jesse, what about lunch?” I said. He replied sarcastically “Yes Bye, there will be time for that after we blast.”

That conversation was a window into a moment of time in Jesse’s life. Every detail of the blasting operation, Tom’s family, what the plans were for the weekend in camp up in Northern Quebec were laid out in real time. Better than a photograph.

Jesse lived his last years with severe dementia. In fact, our entire family lived with his condition. If you have done or are doing the same right now, it is a rough road. His blasting memories were bright spots during his dementia.

His flashbacks were vivid and gave me an insight into his life I would not have experienced otherwise. But, when he ‘came back,’ he would know what went down and get upset. That pain Jesse felt was heartbreaking. All of us suffered with him and wanted nothing more than a cure for our loved one. I still want to see a cure.

That said, I want your support for the Alzheimer Society of Alberta Dinner of Nations. Get to The Westin on Friday, March 14th where local celebrities will be waiters, competing for your tips. Henry L. ‘Gizmo’ Williams and Bridget Ryan are but two who will serve you royally. Fine

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear, EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio. Contact marty@edmontonians.com

Youth Society is a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to high-risk youth. They help re-intergrate young people into the community via crisis intervention, arts mentorship and life skills development programs. I can’t describe their up-coming fundraiser any better than the website: “Journey to Light is a night of inspired youth creativity.

Watch a bubbling cauldron of visual arts mixed with original fashion, dance, and music… be a witness to the original talent of youth-at-risk on their own artistic journey.

On the eve of Friday, March 15 at the Art Gallery of Alberta, ihuman youth will strut the fashion runway in their personally designed and sewn garments. As well, be prepared to be awed at the B-Boys acrobatic dance feats and to be touched by the quality of youth art, music, and poetry.”

Wow! I say get your tickets now. Drop in to the Art Gallery of Alberta at Enterprise Square, or call 780 422-6223, or simply go to www.ihuman,org and buy online using paypal.

STARS in the sky… Every time I see one

U of A School of Business “homeless” fundraisers One of the founders, Frank Callele told me it started because, “We were all business students and felt it was important to give back to the community.

There is an unfair impression that business students are just in it for the money. So, we wanted to have an event that gave back and dispelled that myth. All three of us—Clark Barr, Rob Heart and myself—came from farm backgrounds and we knew we were fortunate to go to university.

Therefore we created an event that would bring awareness and support for those that didn’t get as fair a shake as we did.”

To give, drop by the U or go on-line at www.5days.ca and look for the link to information.

Time to go green… The Ireland-Canada Chamber of Commerce is throwing its annual St. Patrick’s Day Ball on Saturday, March 15th. The Sutton Place Hotel will be filled with spirit, the Mattierin School of Irish Dance, the Trocadero Orcherstra, grand food and drink, wonderful people and a wee leprechaun—if the dude who was there last year shows up. It’s a black tie event that raises funds for the Chambers good works. Call 458-0810 or email colm@echem.ca. See you there.

of those distinctly red STARS choppers fly overhead two things go through my mind: First, that somewhere there has been a serious accident… and the second is thank God, they are in that helicopter.

This year’s gala is one not to be missed. I cannot stress that enough: DO NOT MISS THE STARS GALA. Sorry to yell. The event isn’t until Friday, April 18th at the Winspear Centre, but it’s always a sellout.

Other than Lyle Lovette supporting the good and important work the staff at STARS do, the main attraction will be none other than Lyle Lovette.

Tickets are $250 each… for $750, you can grab coveted VIP tickets that include a champagne and hors d’oeuvres reception plus access to the post performance back stage reception with the opportunity to meet and have your picture taken with Mr. Lovette. Gala tickets are available at Tix on the Square or by phone 420-1757 or visit www.tixonthesquare.ca √ Mark Scholz, owner of MES Communications Inc. offers a variety of services including production, creative and entertainment. For more information or to suggest a story idea, email mscholz@edmontonians.com

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CELEBRATING

Poll

19

STATION T

YEARS

With Linda Banister

FOUNDER DICK MacLEAN

Vol. XIX

MARCH 2008

he state of the world’s environment has become a contentious issue across the globe. Environmental issues once pedaled by special interest groups are now being debated and addressed by high ranking politicians, celebrities, and even our next door neighbours. This month’s Poll Station asked Edmontonians about their perspective on the state of the environment, activities they perform to be “green”, and how well they believe the provincial government is addressing environmental issues.

No. 3

SHARON MacLEAN Publisher and Advertising Director

INSIDE VOX POP Muggsy Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Marty Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Mark Scholz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 POLL STATION Green activities/Banister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 LEADERSHIP Design way/Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

percent upgraded their residences with new windows, insulation, housewrap or a new furnace. Other green activities included stopping smoking (three percent), using less water or reducing lawn watering (three percent), drying clothes on a clothesline (two percent), and washing laundry in cold water (two percent).

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENT? 49%

Percentage

Telephone: 780.482.7000 Fax: 780.488.9317 e-mail: info@edmontonians.com edmontonians.com

43%

WHAT ABOUT GLOBAL WARMING? Respondents were then asked how concerned they were about global warming. The majority (82 percent) indicated they were concerned about the phenomenon, with 39 percent of them being very concerned.

Seven percent were not concerned about global warming and provided a variety of reasons why, including that global warming is a scientific exaggeration, that recent climate changes are part of a recurrent normal cycle, and that the Earth needs more warmth.

EDMONTONIAN IN EXILE Condo fever/Edmondson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 CORPORATE ETHICS Respect/Somji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Said they were very concerned with the current state of the environment.

COVER STORY Reinventing downtown/O’Donnell . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 FEATURE Street smarts/McHugh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 TRANFORMERS Contest ends/Brost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 MEDIA MINUTE Aboriginal role models/Hogle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 CIVIC BUZZ A trench?/Norwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 MY E-SPACE Opta-media/Rayner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

To begin the survey, respondents were asked how concerned they were about the current state of the environment. The majority (92 percent) of respondents expressed concern to some degree: 43 percent were somewhat concerned and 49 percent were very concerned.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO REDUCE YOUR IMPACT?

LIVELY LIFESTYLES Menu Magic/Berry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Absolute Bodo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Editor

editor@edmontonians.com COLUMNISTS Linda Banister John Berry Linda Bodo Janet Edmondson Marty Forbes Muggsy Forbes Bruce Hogle David Norwood Erin Rayner Mark Scholz Nizar J. Somji FEATURE WRITERS Barb Deters Don Hill Rick Lauber Peter Drake McHugh Ian O’Donnell PHOTOGRAPHERS Terry Bourque Janis Dow SPECIAL PROJECTS Edmontonians Transformers Tom Bradshaw Les Brost Steffany Hanlen Larry Ohlhauser

98%

98% 88%

Percentage

BARB DETERS

Said they were somewhat concerned with the current state of the environment.

78% 66%

62% 34%

Said they recycled cans and bottles regularly.

Said they Said they Said they Said they Said they Said they recycled paper regularly lowered installed energy purchases energy had taken public had composted and cardboard the thermostat efficient light efficient transportation in grass clippings products. during the night bulbs. appliances. the last year. or leaves.

Respondents were then asked if they had participated in a number of green or environmentally-friendly activities over the past year.

Recycling was the most popular activity, with nearly all respondents having recycled bottles or cans (98 percent), and paper or cardboard products (93 percent). Eighty-eight percent regularly turned down the thermostat at night or when no one was home, and more than threequarters (78 percent) had installed energy efficient light bulbs. Two thirds of respondents had purchased energy efficient appliances, 62 percent had taken public transportation in the past year, while one third (34 percent) had composted grass clippings or leaves.

When asked about additional efforts to be environmentally friendly, 21 percent of respondents had reduced their vehicle emissions by riding a bike, walking, carpooling, driving less in general, or not idling their vehicle. Seven percent picked up litter or did not litter, and seven

ARE YOU SATISFIED WITH GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES? Respondents were not overly satisfied with the job the provincial government is doing regarding environmental issues. Only 31 percent of respondents indicated they were satisfied. Half were dissatisfied in this regard, with 24 percent of them being very dissatisfied. They felt the provincial government could be doing a number of things to address environmental issues: exercising more control over the oil and gas industry, including gas prices and royalties (26 percent); setting stricter emission standards (18 percent); educating the public on environmental issues (14 percent); improving public transit systems or reducing transit costs (12 percent); and enforcing legislation or upholding environmental promises in general (10 percent). They also indicated that the government should comply with Kyoto Accord regulations (eight percent), better address environmental issues concerning corporations and industries in general (eight percent); and limit oil sands development and use more environmentally friendly methods of oil exploration (eight percent). √ 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.

Want a question included in the Edmontonians Poll?

Contact Linda at 780.451.4444 or e-mail at lbanister@edmontonians.com.

Linda Banister is a certified management consultant and the owner of Banister Research and Consulting Inc., a full service provider of market research and program evaluation services. Visit www.banister.ab.ca.

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THIS MONTH’S COVER

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Edmontonian

IN EXILE

By Janet Edmondson in Calgary

By Don Hill

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friend of mine put it well when he said, “Life on the planet seems to be just one damn thing after the other.” It is a sentiment I am sure you have expressed too. I, for one, would prefer to think that there is a way past all the problems of the world.

There is. It is called the ‘design way’, a remarkably simple idea: What would happen if leaders set aside their role as troubleshooters and behaved more like designers?

“Design is a big deal,” Harold Nelson said during a conference session I attended at the Banff Centre for Leadership Development. Dr. Nelson is emeritus at Stanford University, and is president of the Advanced Design Institute in Seattle.

Given all our technological innovation, he surprisingly declared that “Western culture is not very adept at using design to achieve greater purpose.”

During his tenure at Stanford, Dr. Nelson studied and described how managers and leaders from every walk of life tended to frame their perceptions of the world in a problem setting. They had good reason to do so, he said, because communities and customers are usually quick on the draw “to say what they don’t like and what they don’t want,” but almost always have “a difficult time actually stating what they desire.”

In a seminal book The Design Way, Dr. Nelson outlined the circumstances that generally guide leadership to make decisions in the United States, situations that are equally true of politics here in Alberta. “My students monitored the media to see how many times action was taken by either government or business in response to a problem,” and how many times change was initiated because of something that was desirable. “Very, very few times,” less than one per cent according to the study, “is significant action taken out of a sense of desire.”

What would happen, Dr. Nelson mused, if government and leaders “acted as designers and they were serving clients?”

The service model tends to work well when there is a contractual relationship

between equals and there is a genuine exchange of value. “The designer tries to bring into existence what they hear the client saying they desire,” Dr. Nelson explained. What’s more, “they help the client understand what is desired.”

So what would happen if governments and leaders contracted with us, striking a bargain as one might between designers and their clients? Dr. Nelson feels certain this would create the conditions to “bring something into existence that we desired,” with the understanding that the relationship is an ongoing deal, subject to change and never, ever should be taken for granted.

not our political masters; they are there to represent and serve us.”

Manning, as former Leader of the Opposition in Ottawa and the son of a longserving premier of our province, made the excellent point that we—you and I—have a responsibility to make it clear to politicians what we desire, as Dr. Nelson might put it, rather than what we object to (especially now that the so-called runaway train of development and its impact on the environment is of concern to a majority of Albertans).

I have written about this before, but the story merits a repeat.

A couple of years back, I had Manning on my province-wide radio phone in show. I THE VISION THING was intrigued by his response to a question “Ordinary leaders take people where they about the environment, following an want to go,” said Ken Low, director of the otherwise unremarkable speech he made in Action Studies Institute of Calgary. “Great leaders take people where they ought to go.” Red Deer. “I don’t think Albertans are getting the governance that they deserve,” he However, there is a real and present danger said. And when I prompted him to further for leaders who get so far out and ahead of explain (because he did leave things the crowd; they can get mistaken for the hanging a bit), he volunteered that, in his enemy. opinion and given the history of rapid-fire To my way of thinking, the provincial political movements in the West, the election campaign of late is a concrete environment might well be the rallying example of the leadership that comes point for a new style of governance and a bundled with “the politics of problems” new political party “that has yet to reveal its articulated by Dr. Nelson. Not one of the name.” Manning also hinted that whatever party leaders outlined a vision for Alberta the party called itself, there was a very good beyond dealing with long-standing probability ‘it’ would be the next political complaints and dynasty in the province. being compliant We have a new government in to the immediate Preston Alberta this month. Is this the woes brought to Manning governance you genuinely desire or the their attention. type of administration—no matter what Over a year political flavour you favour—that you ago now, a have simply learned to live with? √ newspaper article by Don Hill is a ‘thought leader’ at the Preston Leadership Lab at the Banff Centre. He is Manning also an award-winning writer and brought broadcaster with a large footprint on the home the Internet. His address is idea of a donhill@gmail.com. Listen to his radio new design series Inspiring Leadership, a 20-part for what otherwise could be documentary on contemporary leadership considered ‘politics as usual’ in the land. and the challenge of leading in the 21st “We have a bad habit in Canada of Century. For more details visit looking to our political leaders to solve www.ckua.com and www.appropriatechallenges for us,” Manning wrote in the entertainment.com √ Calgary Herald. “We forget that they are

$20 Million mortgage financing on The ATB Place was negotiated

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owntown Calgary, like Edmonton, is in condominium overdrive.

Given that it has Canada’s second highest concentration of corporate head offices, about 12 percent of the population works downtown. The city is 722 square kilometres in area, so many people drive two hours or more to get to a downtown office, and then pay exorbitant prices to park nearby. As a result, there is a galloping desire to live in the Calgary core.

re in the co Condos Savvy condo developers figured out years ago that “if you build them, they will come.” In addition to the scores of high-rise buildings finished and fully occupied downtown, there are currently 850 condo units being built, and 1700 more are proposed or approved for construction. You can add to those almost 15,000 units proposed, approved or under construction in the ‘Beltline’ high density area directly south of downtown. That’s a billion dollars worth of construction. The Calgary skyline has more cranes than an origami convention.

Right now, there are two major grocery stores in the Beltline— Safeway and Co-op—three blocks apart. Downtown has nothing but 7Elevens, Mac’s and the prophetically named B&E Grocery. This means that all those people who are moving to be closer to downtown are getting back into their cars and driving out of the core to buy groceries. Likewise with other necessities.

Sears was the only place you could buy a hammer or a power tool downtown, but its Eaton Centre store closed shortly after Christmas. I don’t think the new tenant—Holt Renfrew—is going to fill the hardware niche. The city centre has but three movie theatres … no pet food stores… and most retail outlets in the downtown core are only open for late night shopping on Thursdays and Fridays. Don’t sell that car quite yet.

Edmonton is in the same predicament. SaveOnFoods is on 109th Street and Sobeys is under construction on 104th—a few blocks apart. And, convenience stores are pretty much non-existent in the core. Need a screwdriver?... not even at The Hardware Grill. Urban Edmontonians are frustrated by the same limited shopping as their Calgary cousins.

Both of our cities need to have accessible retail facilities to keep pace with their explosive city centre developments.

Downtown dwellers are crying out for a closer grocer. √ jedmondson@edmontonians.com

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C

orporate Ethics

R •E •S •P •E •C •T

By Nizar J. Somji

O

ver the years, we have

often heard the elders of our various communities talk passionately about “respect”… what you must do to earn it and how it can never be bought. From a corporate standpoint, you are told that if an organization does the right things for the right reasons and delivers the right results, the rewards will follow. The rewards could be in the form of higher share price, larger contracts, or longer term client relationships.

The reality is that the world has fundamentally changed, and it takes a great deal more than just doing the right thing. It takes respect to really transcend to the next level, and earning that respect can sometimes be counterintuitive.

An example of “disrespect” is the rivalry between Calgary and Edmonton.

Even for purists, Edmonton is often considered (particularly by those outside our fair city) as the ugly sibling.

Many theories have been discussed as to why Edmonton is (purportedly) inferior to Calgary. In reality, Edmonton is not only the gateway to the North, it is also the political, cultural and, above all, sports capital of the province. In terms of quality of life—education, facilities, access and even the weather—it is equal to if not better than Calgary in all aspects.

But what Edmonton lacks is the

Are we a white collar city with a blue collar reputation?

“flash” that gives Calgary instant credibility and respect. Because we don’t live it up like Calgarians, we have to work hard to earn the same level of respect. While this may seem harsh, and to some rather naïve and presumptuous, it is the reality. Many corporations end up not finding growth beyond a certain point if they are not willing to do more than just the “right things” to create the image that will bring respect and esteem. And it takes more than marketing to make that happen.

The first and foremost key to earning respect comes from access. The ease with which individuals in a given company can be accessed is directly proportional to the perceived value of these people. It is well established that during a sales call, if the seller makes the senior specialist or management available immediately or quickly agrees to a free product trial, the perceived value of what the company has to offer declines instantly. On the other hand, the unknown creates a level of curiosity and, if managed well, can significantly increase the perceived value of company and its product.

The second key is getting the appropriate value for the knowledge and expertise that you provide. Many companies share a common mantra: “People are our biggest asset.” For smaller companies, potential clients have the tendency to call upon key

individuals to discuss issues and potential solutions as part of their personal education process, with no returns for the company.

I recall a meeting with a potential client. I had prepared a detailed proposal, upon their request, as to how we could solve a severe problem they were facing. After my presentation, fully expecting the contract, the client coldly informed me, “This is amazing.

We did not realize this could be done but, now that we know, we can do it ourselves.” The value was in my design and the proposed solution, and giving it away without a commitment diminished the value that I could offer. Of course, there was no other business from that client.

The third key is creating and nurturing an image. It is not about enhancing the ego. It is about creating an image that enhances the perceived value that the company offers. Referring to the specialists and talent that form the bench strength of your company without making them initially available creates an image of an organization that is strong and powerful. Strategically, when the time is right and the client has made some form of commitment, making such individuals available can drive real value.

The final element is to strategically market this image. The image of the people and the organization—their

accomplishments, values and aspirations—are key to creating the right admiration and respect for the organization.

“Nice guys finish last” is still valid.

Many executives feel that if they maintain the “nice” person image—easily accessible, humble in their outlook and presentation, always available to dig in and solve client problems—they will succeed. While this may be noble, beyond a certain point, image is everything.

Case in point on my earlier argument about Calgary’s flash. Recently, I was booking a flight to Phoenix. I found it very interesting that the business class seats from Calgary were all sold out with a number of economy seats still available. Departing from Edmonton, there were no economy seats available, but business class was wide open. Of course, I was looking to fly economy.

We often wonder why there are fewer direct flights from Edmonton. It is not about the number of travelers but what those travelers are willing to pay. √ 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.

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Photo by Terry Bourque

Ian O’Donnell is a downtown dweller and a prolific, no-holds-barred blogger on Connect2Edmonton. His lively commentary comes from his passion for good architecture. As the president of the Inspired Development Group, Ian handles a lot of the nittygritty details for his developer clients.

This month he shares his angst and his hopes for how we can put soul into the heart of the city.

So committed is Ian to practicing what he preaches that he plans return to school to earn his post-graduate degree in architecture. He’ll be back to put his stamp on the face of the city.

M

ention “downtown” and it evokes different reactions about Edmonton’s core.

Some espouse the numerous developments and improvements taking place. Others bring forth negative correlations about exhorbitant costs. The overriding perception is that a downtown is just that—a downtown… filled with buildings: offices, stores, restaurants, theatres and hotels… inhabited with shop owners, clerks, executives and middle management, artists, students, public servants, visitors, homeless people and the working poor.

The good, the bad, and the ugly… beauty marks and blemishes. For sure, the inner city is a very different experience than suburbia.

For years, we weren’t particularly proud or fond of our downtown—and that was embarrassing to us. Finally, our attitudes—and, yes, perceptions—are changing. We are witnessing a downtown in transition. There is a momentum we haven’t seen in nigh on 20 years. But, looking at the bricks and mortar of the many new buildings is only seeing half of what is really taking place.

I want to present not only a holistic review of the changes in the downtown, but also to challenge Edmontonians to re-think everything about what a downtown is, what it should be, and how people can interact with it.

SINS OF OUR PAST The seeds of change that were planted a decade ago are taking root. The fix was in to make downtown a more friendly, liveable and practical option. From condos to public squares, from restaurants to chic shops—independents and brand names alike—we saw the foreshadowing of a transformation in downtown Edmonton.

Positives aside, it remained a challenge to convince investors that

By Ian O’Donnell

downtown was the place to be. Ross a way to go before it is widely accepted, Lizotte of Lizotte Realty remembers all but there are few out there that can argue too well the day five years ago when he with the sheer number and value of the “showed 26 (vacant) buildings” to an proposals and developments slated for investor from Toronto. Not surprisingly, the core of our city. This is truly setting the investor didn’t buy into the the stage for a push to a critical mass— “booming city” image we hoped to an essential, if you will—for a portray. For many years, downtown successful downtown.

Edmonton was simply not on the radar Cantor has a lot to be proud of himself of many developers. The first blips with the recent announcement of appeared in the late 1990s with the Edmonton’s first major commercial advent of a better economy, a renewed office tower in 20 years. The new focus on the environment and urban headquarters for EPCOR will be a 28living, and visionaries who understood storey LEED (Leadership in Energy and that without a critical mass of people, Environmental Design) complex, and stores and vivacity would not will kick off the long awaited follow.

“Stationlands” site on EPCOR’s new On the high end of our 101st and 105th commerc learning curve was a newAvenue. This is ial found respect for design and office tower perhaps less about a architectural standards. The new building and ‘raising of the proverbial more about a new bar’ is the result of the reoptimism from the creation of the Edmonton business community…

Design Committee—this time with clout. At last, there was recognition of the need to review development proposals from a different angle—one of urbanity, one of design, and one with its surroundings taken into consideration.

Downtown needed a gatekeeper: We got just that.

For so long, our perception of the downtown was cemented in comparing it to other cities with glistening new office towers and trees of glass apartments above vibrant and attractive streets. We have overlooked the substantial progress that has occurred in the downtown in recent years. More is needed, more is coming.

PROMISING PRESENT There is a renewed energy downtown or as Qualico’s Ken Cantor puts it, a “public pride that wasn’t there eight years ago.” This emerging awareness has

A member of the Core Crew sweeping up

one that recognizes the value of a strong downtown core in reference to a healthy region as a whole.

Perhaps the best example of an urban shift in Edmonton can be found on 104th Street between Jasper Avenue and 102nd Avenue. Contrasting built forms of old and new, we see a wonderful movement happening. Anchoring the northerly end are two Icon condominium towers by Langham Properties, architecturally consistent at street level with the 1916 Metals Building on the corner. Then we have the four-storey mixed-use development on the former Cecil Hotel site. It will feature an urban format, main floor Sobeys grocery store, with two floors of office space above in the neighborhood of 42,000 square feet, a usable “green” rooftop amenity space, and one level of underground parking.

Architecturally, it mirrors the rounded corner and style of the fabulous Birks Building, but in a way to complement history with a modern interpretation. The developer behind this project, John Day, sees it as “a catalyst” for 104th Street and the rest of downtown.

Now, we have a proposal for 104th Street and 102nd Avenue on the long defunct Greyhound lot. With a working title of “Urbia Tower” and soaring a potential 28 storeys into the sky, it could become another wonderful addition on one of the more important remaining undeveloped lots. However, the initial renderings do little to inspire: They remind me that we still have a long way to go before developers understand that mediocrity is unacceptable—I trust the Edmonton Design Committee will request significant changes in keeping with other old and new architectural gems in the warehouse district. Truly, we need buildings with multiple uses that transcend traditional limits… that engage and motivate others to follow suit.

In late 2007, we saw the opening of Continued on page 8

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Continued from page 7 the Don Wheaton Family YMCA, a multi-purpose public recreation facility at the heart of the core. When we look at healthy downtowns, we must understand that such facilities are vital to creating an area that attracts people at all times of the day and each day of the week. One that contributes to positively enhance working nearby but also—and perhaps more importantly—living nearby.

Although smaller in stature than its neighbours, this building will exponentially increase livability, welcoming both families and workers.

For instance, consider the relatively high number of educational facilities located in the centre of the city—some 30 public and private institutions. The recently completed Robbins Health Centre at Grant MacEwan College and the U of A’s Enterprise Square in the old Bay building are welcome additions.

lacking downtown? But, a few words of caution: We need a landmark—an arena that defies everything that Rexall Place currently is. It needs to embrace not only fans but the public… to be streetfriendly… to foster confidence in the area north and east of it. A concrete box absolutely will not do.

Randall Stout-designed Alberta Art Gallery

downtown that now commands a premium to live in, work at, or rent from. Realtor Lizotte has seen rents jump from $7 to $20 or even $30 a square foot for retail or office space.

This has had an interesting effect on fringe, or B and C class, space where businesses are now relocating in the hopes of staying central. Simultaneously, downtown residential rates are escalating beyond the reach of many. Without creating areas for all incomes, sizes and demographics, we will see the downtown become viable only to those with big names and even bigger wallets—not a positive eventuality.

CHALLENGES OF CHANGE To fulfill the promise of a rejuvenated, revitalized downtown, we need a road map with a clear vision of our destination before we reach it. We need to look ahead and foster a downtown environment with a holistic vision. We need to recognize that there needs to be

ing pool City Hall’s wad

Walid Melheim Photo by Ian O’Donnell

Downtown is reinventing itself by convincing people to see it as a viable place to live and grow rather than previous misconceptions that it was a transitional community. As a new resident who has worked downtown for many years, Walid Melheim wasn’t sure what to expect. “I was amazed at how much more there is from exploring.” In the same breath, he wonders how it can be conveyed to those who haven’t clued in. Perhaps we need more overt statements, strategies and recognition of what it has to offer.

Bringing thousands of students into downtown is a real boost to bridging the gap between the work and live milieu.

Culturally, downtown is receiving its crown jewel in the form of the Randall Stout-designed Alberta Art Gallery. A departure from anything this city has seen, it will anchor what John Day views as our “cultural node.” I expect nothing short of phenomenal with this impressive structure and see it as our first Iconic piece of modern architecture, a new symbol for the Arts District.

There’s been quite a buzz about a downtown arena and, while the jury is still out on where or when, many people including Cantor believe it will “bind a lot of things together.” I agree here, to: A downtown inherently binds a city together and, on a more micro level, its components bind each other together. A multipurpose facility would truly give off “tremendous energy,” as Day puts it.

Doesn’t that sum up what has been

However, all of this is not without certain challenges or impediments.

We’ve seen a significant shift from the much professed “discountville” to a

a comprehensive and collective revelation for the downtown that incorporates all of its stakeholders be it a corporation, a condo owner or a homeless person.

A downtown needs to become more inviting and more interactive through

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Beltline condo construction in Oliver

Scotia Place

Colton Kirsop

Rendering of John Day’s 104th Street project “improvements in urban design,” says Colton Kirsop, principal planner with the City of Edmonton. He recognizes that the city is the greenhouse for the cultivation of how the downtown will develop. A new plan, expected this spring, will provide the 15-year vision

for the downtown—that will be our road map to the future.

Moreover, downtown needs to literally clean up its act to signal to investors and buyers it is serious about an image change. There is a collective understanding that, as Cantor says, “We

need to do a better job (of visually) presenting our city to our citizens.”

We have a great opportunity to mold a downtown core into a shape we all can be proud of and enjoy. Cantor asks rhetorically, “Will future generations be proud of it? If the answer to that is yes, then do it”. When we look back in one, two or five decades, what do we want to see? Will we really be proud of the mediocrity we continue to see rising around downtown? When we will understand that ‘acceptable’ is not good enough any more?

In addition to and part and parcel of creating a vibrant downtown, we must begin to better incorporate the downtown beltlines of Oliver, the North Edge, East Jasper and the very much underused and

potentially creative land in lower Rossdale. We must reach out and embrace these areas to take advantage of mutual beneficial relationships.

Downtown must understand it is not an island but, in fact, an estuary.

Cantor left me with a statement that I quite like: “Ego is not a bad thing”… blunt but with more merit than most people immediately see. If downtown is to take that next step, it becomes more of a psychological and philosophical reallocation of how you view a downtown. It becomes less reliant on the monetary investments occurring in the core and more about the personal investments we each are willing to make.

THINK ABOUT IT Downtown is far more than the just the epicenter of Edmonton; far more than a collection of buildings or parking lots. It is a place for gathering, for learning, for exploring, for inspiration.

Edmontonians need to begin to practice a little urban husbandry, a philosophy of growth that encourages participation and interaction by business owners, residents and policy makers to organically grow an area while ensuring the garden has water and sunlight.

Take a moment to reflect on downtown. It needs you to embrace it and—more importantly—to champion it. √

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Ice Festival on Whyte

By Drake McHugh

I

t is one of those rare events. A good news story that is changing the look of Edmonton… building strong neighbourhoods… increasing business… and, finally, fostering much needed character throughout the city.

The idea is not new. In fact, it has been functioning along Edmonton’s main commercial thoroughfares for about two decades—a bit of a take on what has been practiced successfully in malls for much longer than that.

I speak of our Business Revitalization Zones—BRZs. We have 11 such parcels throughout the city: 10 on the Northside, from east to west, and one the Southside. The concept is simple but the devil is in the details. It starts with area business and shop owners agreeing to a special tax, much as happens in malls where marketing is done centrally and everybody chips in to ensure success.

Set up and governed by a combination of provincial legislation and City policy and initiated at the request of the business community, it is a bit of an awkward child. If success has many fathers, everyone wants credit for this one. Fortunately, there is enough success to be shared.

To be established, 25 percent of businesses in the area must sign on. Once there is a go-ahead, all businesses must join the BRZ. Those who know the system best cite this as the most important requirement. When a BRZ is created, City Council establishes a business association, sets boundaries, and approves a board of directors and an annual budget. The budgeted amount is collected by the city through the special levy. The second most important is that the city returns all it collects to the association in quarterly installments to fund BRZ initiatives.

The businesses must then, well, run a business. They produce an audited financial statement and annual report, hold an annual general meeting and nominate a board.

Doesn’t sound too complicated but, according to those in the know, it works smoothly and overcomes common challenges. Entrepreneurs are a particular type and have many talents but precious few have the promotional skills and the time to implement a plan. By clubbing together, they have the resources to hire executive directors to stick handle day-to-day administration, launch promotional campaigns, organize events and deal with the media. As well, the planning and development department provides the civic coordinating function for Edmonton BRZs, including consultative and planning services related to their establishment and ongoing operations.

STREETS AHEAD OF ALL OTHERS It will probably come as no surprise that the Old Strathcona Business Association has pride of place amongst many. The historically significant district boasts 600 members, mostly clustered along Whyte Avenue from 99th to 109th Streets.

The executive director is effusive in her praise of this BRZ concept. In the past, Shirley Lowe has not been a fan of the runaway development that the city specialized in during the boom years of the 1970s and 80s. “The program is intended to make city streets more inviting and interesting to walk and to shop. It helps building owners attract and retain tenants… and builds civic pride among the local business community. We contribute to the quality of life of residents, workers and visitors and we promote marketability… If local businesses do well, the entire neighbourhood does well.

“Our members pick up garbage and wash the sidewalks just as in Europe; we promote theatre, the Farmers’ Market and festivals. We’re the eyes on the street. If something needs fixing, we know about it first and city council is very open and helpful with us.”

Old Strathcona’s Fringe Festival

INGLEWOOD’S ARC

goes inte

M

anasc Isaac

Architects will be represented at the world’s most prestigious architectural exhibition in Venice, Italy, from September 14 to November 23.

Three of the local firm’s “sustainable” projects—the Hinton Government Centre, St. John Ambulance Alberta headquarters here, and the Athabasca Health Centre in Stony Rapids, Saskatchewan — are featured in 41º to 66º: Architecture in Canada, an exhibit organized by Cambridge Galleries in Ontario. Vivian Manasc and Richard Isaac’s high performance buildings are in the company of other contemporary designs from Arthur Erikseon, Patkau Architects and KPMB Architects. The locals are renowned for their environmentally efficient buildings. Congrats on yet another first.

The St. John’s Ambulance headquarters are located on 118th Avenue and 122nd Street in t 10

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OSBA president Dell Kronstede with Shirley Lowe

Window shopping on Whyte Avenue Lowe hasn’t forgotten that, not so long ago, older buildings would have been razed or moved to Fort Edmonton in the river valley, a policy that effectively sterilized Edmonton’s downtown. “I think we’re smarter now. You can’t expect to tear down your history and have a liveable city.” She sees the liveliness of European cities as something we are only now beginning to copy. But, she shakes her head at the recent proposal to run a traffic trough through the centre of Old Strathcona which would effectively destroy the ambience of the area. “Sometimes I think we really haven’t learned anything at all… I hope Edmonton is not doomed to repeat its terrible record of destroying liveable, interesting neighbourhoods.”

I re-visit the topic of Edmonton’s dismal record of building monolithic tower blocks with no setbacks from the street. A big no-no in any good city design. “You have to be cautious,” Lowe suggests. “Sometimes, people will say they are consulting with you and, really, it has already been decided and all you get to do is choose the colour. That’s not consultation.” She also says that NIMBY—not in my backyard—is often used by developers against residents as a put-down but she argues that often it has nothing to do with NIMBY… it’s just inappropriate development.

Clearly you don’t want to be putting a tunnel through this lady’s backyard. “We do have an advantage here,” Lowe says in parting. “City council in the ’80s put in a million dollars over 10 years to ensure… that we can walk amongst our history.”

CHITECTURAL GEM

ernational

Frank Spinelli statue in Giovanni Caboto Park

ew Year’s parade Chinese lunar N

NOODLES, BY ANY OTHER NAME, ARE PASTA… AREN’T THEY? Across town, Marco Polo would have approved of the Chinatown and Little Italy Business Association. You might think this a bit of a journalistic stretch, but the 13th Century Italian adventurer claims to have trekked to China twice and lived there for 17 years. He was an explorer and a businessman with an eye for ‘new’ products: Marco brought gunpowder and noodles back from China. So, last year’s

expansion of the 97th Street BRZ to include the Via Italia/95th Street businesses seems to have deep roots.

Ratan Lawrence, executive director of the 275-member association, says, “It clearly has a character of its own. Our main priority is to make this area more pedestrian friendly.

It’s true that weather is a problem here but, once you get out of your house and go meet people on the street, you’ll be back. We think this is the most vibrant part of the city.

Business owners realize that it is the diversity of cultures that draw business to the area.”

The new logo for the BRZ features the head of a red Chinese dragon on a green Italian gondola. Who said you couldn’t have a little fun in business? While the name and the logo of the BRZ represent the “gated” themes of the two areas (including a stretch of the Avenue of Nations/107th Avenue), its shops and services reflect a much larger ethnic community—including Vietnamese, Thai, Laotian and other cultures—which has always attracted newcomers to the country. Herbert Chui, president of the association believes this rich cultural diversity is the big draw. “There will always be big box stores,” he concedes, “but we offer much more of a shopping experience. People like to come here just to walk around and they are welcome. We think it’s a lovely neighbourhood.”

Continued on page 12

the Inglewood Business Revitalization Zone. √ EDMONTONIANS MARCH 2008

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A Home

Making a House

Helen Nolan and Alex Paterson at TU Gallery on 124th Street

FIRST IN A SERIES o you truly LIVE in your own home? It’s an interesting question.

The “perfect” home often remains elusive and home owners accept and adapt — you’ve likely stretched an extension cord across the floor from an electrical plug located on the wrong wall. Doing this is both unsightly and unsafe.

“Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make”, explains Keith Takaoka, President of Connect Home Innovations, Inc. (Connect Home).

Considering this expense, why settle for something less than ideal?

Your “ideal” home may differ greatly from others’ views; however, it will incorporate elements of safety, entertainment, functionality, aesthetics, comfort and convenience. And those elements are best built in from day one, stresses Takaoka. Working with new home builders, Connect Home designs a home “prior to the framing stage”.

This saves time and expense, plus increases a home’s resale value in the future – all things beneficial to you, the home buyer. With different trades people having different specializations, this often stalls the building process … “you would need to put a security guy in; you would have to put in low voltage structure wiring – being the telephone and cable – and a different guy would come in for that.” “My sell to the builder was we have a company here that will do it all. In one shot.”

Any number of home upgrades is possible. With just wandering through the 3,000 square-foot showroom at Connect Home, one can begin to imagine the wealth of possibilities … great rooms, kitchens, lighting, home electronics, multi-room audio/video, central vacuum cleaners, home theatres, and, of course, security systems and monitoring to protect you, your family, your belongings and your investment.

“The number one upgrade is audio,” states Takaoka. “It’s affordable. It is also aesthetically pleasing, now that you can hear speakers you don’t really see.”

Speakers can be mounted throughout the home – in the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom or the back deck.

While Connect Home has been primarily working with new home builders in and around Edmonton for the past five years, Takaoka is stretching his wings. “We have two customers … home-builders and their clients … now, we are accepting more appointments … phone-in appointments or clients building new homes.” Connect Home will also help existing home owners with older properties; “We just trained four guys on the – we call it – ‘retro’ because you have to fish the wires through the walls … more a renovation than anything,” says Takaoka. And all of Connect Home’s work is guaranteed … “There is a one-year warranty … on any of our work,” he adds.

Enjoy and live in your own home. Connect Home, your home automation specialists, provide “Smart Homes for Intelligent Living!” Drop in to 17313 – 107th Ave. in Edmonton between 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

Call during business hours to 484-8300. Their home on the Internet is www.connecthomeinnovations.com.

D

Photo by Terry Bourque

Continued from page 11

UMBRELLA ADVERTISING JUST ONE OF THE BENEFITS Over at the 124th Street & Area BRZ, President Alex Paterson is a big promoter of BRZs. He’s speaking from the TU Gallery which he runs. “I’m here because I contacted the BRZ and they immediately told me who I should talk to, what was happening and the buildings that were for rent. I was very impressed. I’m here because of the BRZ. “This is a community,” Paterson says.

“We had a fellow come into one shop and use a scam about needing money to pay his security company because he’d set his house alarm off. By the time the shop owner realized he’d been had, a message went out immediately to all the businesses in the area—lo and behold, another store had the guy on video tape.

“I had the sense, years ago, that 124th Street was pretty rundown… that’s not the case any longer. We get the potholes filled, we get the graffiti removed and the whole atmosphere of the area is one of safety. When I started I didn’t share information with all the other BRZs, but I quickly learned it is important to share, and you can learn a lot from others. Sure, we’re in competition but, if the city does well, we all do well with it.” Indeed, exchanging ideas and sharing successes can take place during BRZ Council meetings where all 11 areas are represented.

Don’t miss Keith Takaoka in upcoming editions on Flat Panel TVs, HD, and Home Theatre audio!

ent Huculak, sma, Kent Barber, Br uin Br y hle As : ht) Back Row (left to rig kaoka, Chantel Reid, Xiuying Wang Ta Austin Moland, Keith hnessy, Jason Forth haug O’S dy Jo w: Ro nt Fro An Edmontonians’ Feature Advertisement

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A celebration of food at Souvla Taverna on 124th Street

The executive director, Helen Nolan, believes that the big plus for the association’s 450 members is umbrella advertising which was not previously done.

“This is a cluster of businesses that do much better business together than we ever could alone. We bring a sense of creativity and innovation.” That includes the bannered custom streetlamps, the oversized flower tubs and the decorative lighting on the trees.

Moreover, Nolan ensures that members’ concerns are addressed. “We have a wonderful relationship with the police, and city councilors really listen when we talk with them. It’s a win, win situation for everyone.”

VERTICALLY INTEGRATED AND MULTI-DIMENSIONAL STREETSCAPES Quick trip to downtown Edmonton which bore the brunt of brutal architecture during the boom times when there was money to do better. No sooner were the buildings up than there was an exodus of government agencies and head offices.

For a while, you could wander the empty canyons between skyscrapers wondering if anyone cared or had a plan for Alberta’s capital city. Lamenting ‘paradise lost’ can get quite Jim Taylor depressing, but a quick call to Jim Taylor, executive director of the Downtown Business Association, will cheer you up.

“The great thing about BRZs,” he enthuses, “is that if they do a good job, you don’t even know they are there, that’s good… sometimes we don’t get recognized for all we do. We have some special problems and some opportunities. We represent all the business in a square area, that’s unlike the others who tend to run lengthwise along streets or avenues.

“We’ve managed to do a lot with what we have. We’ve re-done facades on buildings and have really looked at setbacks on buildings to give a nicer feel when you go for lunch or supper downtown. We work hard at picking up paper and garbage EDMONTONIANS MARCH 2008

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Family Day at Churchill Square

downtown and it seems a small thing but it pays dividends in tourism dollars and liveability.

“I suppose if you had to describe what it is we do,” Taylor explains, “we’re the marketing arm for businesses in the downtown. that’s not just storefronts, that’s the executives in the high rises and a couple of malls. As I said, we’re a little different than the others. We get a great deal of support from the city and we do the time consumptive things that can be a drag on a businessman’s time.”

Taylor acknowledges that rents have jumped in the downtown, but he still fields calls from businesspeople looking for space or needing other information. He also says bus service between downtown and West Edmonton Mall has proved to be popular.

He chuckles. “It’s true that we are taking people out of the downtown but, it is also true that we are bringing them into the downtown.. It’s good business for everyone.” So what would make someone want to visit downtown? “People like to be outside when they can be and malls are fine but really our streetscape (there’s that word again) is more multi-dimensional. And more diverse. There is a realness on the streets of downtown Edmonton and people love to come to shop or just wander about.”

reimbursement of up to 50 percent of the cost of eligible renovation, up to a maximum of $20,000. “It is wonderful to see the progress,” Zahara says. “This can really help keep the city in touch with people who are in the neighbourhood and live with problems. There is a personal touch here that cannot be underestimated: Cleaner, safer neighbourhoods. People really being involved in their neighbourhoods.”

If Zahara extols the virtues of the human component, urban design guru Assama Galali says there is an increased understanding that good design in a city doesn’t cost, but pays off—not only in attracting shoppers and tourists but in reduced policing costs. “We refer to it as ‘the art of making a place for people’… creating a streetscape with open spaces and gathering areas as it was for thousands of years before the modern age. People love to explore, window shop, look at other people. Put people in your downtown and

Continued on page 15

GOOD DESIGN IS GOOD BUSINESS Ken Zahara with the City of Edmonton planning department says the BRZ concept works very well but is not yet final perfect. “Some areas haven’t qualified, but we continue to work with them because with BRZs we see healthier parts of the city benefiting—not just business but the entire neighbourhood.

Part of the program can provide a

(Inset) Edmonton City Centre’s food court

City Centre pedway EDMONTONIANS MARCH 2008

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13

Tom Bradshaw, winners Brent Taylor and Arlene Schilke, Steffany Hanlen and Les Brost

t s e t n o C T

here is magic about transformation, but working with the Edmontonians Transformers is not about magic wands or pixie dust.

Transformers-style magic happens when skill, knowledge and inspiration blend with motivation and perspiration to change someone’s life. The degree of transformation increases in direct proportion to the commitment to hard work, self-honesty and desire to change.

The Transformers are most successful when they work with highly motivated people. That’s why Edmontonians decided to conduct a competition to find business people who were motivated to take their skills to the next level and prepared for a transformation experience. If the results of the contest are indicative of the transformational readiness of entrepreneurs, the business community itself is primed for dramatic change.

When the competition closed on December 31, our

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Photo by Terry Bourque

By Les Brost inboxes were full of applications from interesting candidates. Our first step was to identify those contestants most ready, willing and brave enough to make the short list for assessment and evaluation.

The Transformers—Steffany Hanlen, Dr. Larry Ohlhauser, Tom Bradshaw and I—carefully reviewed each submission. It was obvious that short-listing three candidates was not an easy task. We looked at websites, business plans, poems, ideas, essays and proposals as we searched for the clues that would guide us to the three who would move on to the next phase of the competition.

Slowly, the three finalists began to emerge from the pack.

It was interesting that the three finalists would come from three completely different business models: a not-for-profit, a start up and a family owned small business.

Each of the three finalists completed face-to face interviews with the Transformers and publisher Sharon MacLean. The process identified the finalist who appeared

best positioned to benefit from the transformation, and whose story would be compelling for readers of the magazine.

Selecting the winner was no slam dunk. Michelle Aasgard is the director of the Alberta Community Cooperative Association, which represents thousands of members of agri-business, consumer, and natural gas co-ops across Alberta. ACCA also plays a leading role in youth leadership development in Alberta. Michelle is an articulate and thoughtful individual with huge potential as an organizational leader.

Catherine Lam and Rebecca Loo of Octii Corp. are two inspiring young start-up entrepreneurs with a dynamite business concept aimed at parents who want to prepare their children for leadership roles in society. “Cat” and “Reb” impressed us as wonderful examples of the passion and smarts possessed by Edmonton’s young entrepreneurs.

Brent Taylor and Arlene Schilke, who have three

EDMONTONIANS MARCH 2008

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children, are the business and life partners.

They are the owners and managers of TimeWise Events, a full service meeting, conference and event management company with offices in Edmonton and Calgary. They provide professional planning and coordination services to corporate, association and government clients, both locally and nationally.

The Transformers faced a difficult decision. Michelle is an experienced professional manager who wants to further develop her skills to better serve the members of her organization. Catherine and Rebecca are young businesswomen looking for the vision and life management skills required to establish and grow their business. Brent and Arlene are deeply committed to personal and professional growth and to the dramatic expansion of their existing business.

The Transformers assessed the merits of the three finalists from the perspectives of the overall transformation exercise and of our individual specialties. Ultimately, it was the TimeWise team’s awareness of their multiple challenges and their determination to meet those challenges that tipped the scales in their favour. Brent and Arlene were our unanimous choice as the contest winners.

The selection process was also a powerful experience for the Transformers.

We were inspired and humbled by the trust the finalists placed in us, by their commitment to self-improvement and by their willingness to offer their stories to Edmontonians’ readers.

The Transformers will work with Brent and Arlene over the next several weeks to guide them through strategies and mindsets that will help them reframe their experience and knowledge… show them how to utilize their soft skills… and steer them on a path to ultimate physical, mental and financial success. In an upcoming issue, we will present our “before” and “after” accounts of Brent and Arlene’s journey.

This selection experience reminded us again of the power of the transformation process. The four of us transform people’s lives, and we in turn are transformed by each transformee. That’s why it’s magic. √

The Migrants at City Hall

Continued from page 13 they will attract people. If you take South Edmonton Common, it is many things but I don’t find it an enjoyable place to be. At one time, we believed that the public spaces would be in shopping malls and that’s somewhat true but it is not real and it has a bit of a feeling that there is no character there.”

Galali claims that in order to see where Edmonton can go, we have to remember where the city came from. Beginning with oil discoveries at Leduc it became a topsy turvy boom and bust society where design was often seen as a barrier and obstacle to timely development. “There was great pressure to grow quickly and more than one developer would tell the city ‘If you don’t allow me to build this building, I will leave.’

“The boom times were heady and the city created roads, not streets. There is a big difference. You must create streets that are fun to wander. A street is a place for people as we have seen in Europe.”

Galali often talks with Albertans who come back from Europe astonished at how liveable the cities are, and wonder why we can’t have cities like that in Alberta. The short answer is we can, and we’re working on it.

“There is a much greater understanding about what makes a great city. They don’t just happen. They have to be planned and the BRZs are the places on the ground where you can plant the seeds of good design that make you want to get out and walk—not that you have to walk, you want to walk.”

Galili grew up in Egypt and Paris. And, he has an observation about the City of Light. “You can wander through neighbourhoods in Paris and there is not one skyscraper. All the streets have maybe six storey buildings and people come from around the world because the design is timeless. It is feast for the eyes. There is adventure and vibrancy around every corner. There are people everywhere.

“It’s best to get it right the first time,” he says, “but if you didn’t that doesn’t mean that all is lost. I am always amazed at the BRZs because they are interested in good design. They understand that good design is good business. BRZs can be agents for change. They can have impact on design on main streets and old mature neighbourhoods. People are a lot more aware of their surroundings. They’re more exposed to wonderful design and they travel and come home they say why can’t our city be more like a Vancouver or a Paris and the answer is, ‘no reason at all’—you just have to decide that this important for people and a profit line for business.”

As I head toward Jasper Avenue, the sun is warming the street and the snow is melting. Edmontonians have crowded back onto the streets to celebrate the coming spring. It’s an annual ritual but this year, for some reason, I’m much more aware of their presence. √

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15

M edia Minute with Bruce Hogle

The University of Alberta’s commitment to a $60-million Aboriginal Gathering Place could not have come at a better time for all Métis, Inuit, First Nations and other indigenous students, faculty and staff at the U of A, as well as those who live elsewhere in Canada.

Belcourt, and lawyer and former Olympian Willie Littlechild.

The Aboriginal Gathering Place facilities—700 residential rooms, a communal kitchen and conference rooms—will provide a living and learning environment, while enhancing the education and developing a strong appreciation for the cultures of these Canadians. It will be ideally located on vacant university land off Saskatchewan Drive at 117th Street, close to the International Centre.

bilingual programs are becoming more popular within our public schools. As well, the city’s all-native high school, Amiskwacity, is assisting in reducing high drop-out rates. A highly successful cadet movement at Hobbema has dramatically reduced gang activity in that area. And, in 2005, Edmonton council demonstrated foresight with the signing of the Aboriginal Accord, calling for a “strong aboriginal voice” here.

All this is wonderful and hopefully will have a positive influence on

Herb Belcourt

Aboriginal rolemodels Learning environment tailored to Aboriginal students

University Chancellor Eric Newell , Vice Presidents Carl Amrheim and Don Hickey are working closely on this innovative U of A 100th anniversary project, with highly respected Aboriginal/Métis representatives Alan Benson of Native Counselling Services, social activist/entrepreneur Herb

C

ivic Buzz with David Norwood

The good news is that the City plans to replace the 95-year old Walterdale Bridge and widen Gateway Boulevard. The bad news is that it wants to connect the 103rd Street-boulevard to the new bridge with a trench under Saskatchewan Drive. The proposal has garnered strong reaction, mostly negative. [I must declare a bias here: I live on Gateway Boulevard immediately across from End of Steel Park and Saskatchewan Drive.]

Very few people challenge the need for a better way into downtown and, contrary to what Paula Simon wrote in her Edmonton Journal column, there are many collisions at the hairpin turn off Saskatchewan Drive onto Queen Elizabeth Road. Most are relatively minor fender-benders, but some are serious—in any case, they all tie up traffic. The turn must be eliminated.

What many people object to is the nature of the widening of Gateway Boulevard… and the concept of a trench. Unless the redeveloped roadway also goes under Whyte Avenue, the character of Old Strathcona will be seriously compromised.

The Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, certainly one of the City’s biggest and most popular events, will be harmed by a wider, open road… the yearround Farmers’ Market, a huge draw on weekends, will be separated from its major parking area—in fact, the parking lot could be eliminated. Many other events—from January’s ‘Ice on Whyte’ festival to the annual summer Art Walk—which attract sizable crowds will also be compromised.

Catalyst Theatre, the Yardbird Suite and Ritchie Mill will be negatively affected.

And while some people see Whyte Avenue as just a collection of bars and clubs, in fact the whole area from 109th Street to 99th Street is alive and vibrant with wonderful shops, restaurants and services.

The most sensible solution, in my view and that of many others, is to put this vital community, its people and pedestrians first.

Widen Gateway, by all means, but take it 16

Edmonton now has the second highest Aboriginal urban population in Canada at 52,000. There are 400,000 Métis in Canada, and their population in Alberta has increased 72 percent since 1996. The province’s Inuit population is small at about 2,000 people, a third of whom live in the Capital City.

The U of A is not alone in recognizing the need for an Aboriginal Gathering Place. Herb, his cousin Orville Belcourt and George Brosseau are the masterminds of the visionary $16-million Belcourt-Brosseau Métis Awards which, in the last four years, have donated $2million in scholarships directly to Métis students at various universities and colleges. That helps explain why NAIT now has 500 Aboriginal students compared to 100 in 1996, and why Cree

underground from about 78th Avenue northward, and cut and cover it until it emerges from the river bank beyond Saskatchewan Drive. Maintain a two-lane service road where Gateway is now, running right to Saskatchewan Drive. And, thinking even further ahead, make provision for LRT lines to Mill Woods and the southeast. This is a costly solution, no doubt, but it will preserve and in fact enhance an area that is a proven tourist and business attraction.

In recent years, other large cities have taken steps to eliminate vehicular traffic from popular tourist and people-oriented areas, and it’s time Edmonton joined that group. Mayor Stephen Mandel and several city councillors already have shown forwardlooking vision for LRT expansion, so we have reason to be optimistic. Enlist the support of both senior levels of government for this project, and make it something that we can be proud of. In the end, properly done, it will be a win-win situation.

We’re seeing evidence of ‘big city’ thinking in council chambers. After much ado, council has approved the Davidoff Group’s residential and commercial development at the corner of 142nd Street and Stony Plain Road. It’s a step in the right direction—one, I think, that will enhance the vitality of both Glenora and Grosvener neighbourhoods. It further reinforces the city’s Smart Choices strategy, which calls for planned intensification of certain neighbourhoods as an alternative to urban sprawl. The four towers, townhomes and ground-floor commercial space are welldesigned and will present an attractive western gateway to Edmonton’s inner city.

Despite criticism of the project by some as too dense, the entire complex will contain only 270 residential units, almost 30 fewer than the adjacent, once-controversial Crescent Place tri-tower, constructed in 1968.

Aboriginal students—50 percent of whom do not complete high school; a factor that contributes to unemployment rates which are three times the level of the rest of Canada.

But besides the aforementioned opportunities, Alberta Aboriginals have phenomenal role models the likes of Herb, Willie, Alan and George, plus John Brosseau, Patti Laboucane Benson, Bobby Morin, Muriel Stanley Venne, Leila Houle, Chester Cunningham, Maggie Hodgson, Pearl Calahasen, Cliff Whitford, Leith Campbell, Lewis and Mike Cardinal.

I’d also be remiss in not adding Federal Court Judge Tony Mandamin, Provincial Court Judge Tom Goodson and world acclaimed architect Douglas Cardinal.

Conceptual sketches of Strathearn Heights redevelopment project

Let’s be brutally frank. Many Canadians don’t understand or care about Aboriginal Canadians. Two who do are Louise Hayes and Bob Gibson.

Louise has been associated for over 30 years with various Aboriginal organizations and people, as well as governments from former P.M. Joe Clark to our last four Alberta Premiers (including Ed Stelmach). Her insight and care has drawn high respect from both Métis and First Nations people.

That same esteem holds true for Bob, the former CFRN program manager, for his assistance in helping the Aboriginal People’s Television Network (APTN) becoming a reality. He is one of few non-Aboriginals to have participated in three sacred sweat lodge ceremonies which he admits changed his life forever, and opened his eyes to the concerns and challenges facing Canadian Aboriginals. Bob has also visited the Yellow Quill Reserve in Saskatchewan (which he described as worse than any developing country) and recently talked to a tearful former Chief Henry “Hank” Neapetung about their January tragedy.

Louise and Bob could teach all of us a few lessons. We would to well to emulate their understanding of Aboriginal issues and their respect for Metis and First Nations peoples and their traditions. √ Bruce Hogle is the former news director at CFRN TV and recently retired head of the Alberta Press Council.

Contact bhogle@edmontonians.com

This development warrants approval by council and, given the increased affordable housing component increase, it likely will be granted. But it should be approved on its other merits as well: This urban village— designed by Sturgess Architects and planners Armin Prieksaitis & Associates—will offer a wide variety of residential accommodation, superior architecture, attractive streetscapes, appropriate commercial and retail outlets within walking distance of the surrounding neighbourhoods. Its approval will again demonstrate, as did the Century Park and Glenora projects, that this city is emerging as a 21st-Century metropolis.

A few blocks east of Strathearn is

Next up for City Council discussion and decision (scheduled to have taken place by the time Edmontonians hits the streets) is the larger scale—in both area and scope— Strathearn Heights Ltd. rejuvenation project which won a 2007 Edmonton Urban Design Award for its master plan. The 23 acre (9.3 hectares), 1,750 unit mixed-use complex will include town-houses, and low, medium- and high-rise apartments. The lowest units will be on the periphery of the property, and the tallest ones, ranging from 18 to 21 floors, at the centre. Like the Glenora project, the towers will be slim, resulting in a more aesthetic appearance having less shadow impact than current zoning allows. The Strathearn redevelopment also has attracted criticism mainly because of its high density and the height of the high-rises. Significant consultation with area residents has taken place, and modifications have been made.

Among the most important is a recent agreement to increase the affordable housing component of the complex to 20 percent of the total—at least 350 units could be reserved for Habitat for Humanity and low-cost rental apartments.

Holyrood Gardens, on 85th Street between 90th and 95th Avenues. The property manager is Westcorp Properties which, according to its website, “intends to redevelop this prime site with a mix of apartments, town homes, seniors housing, and retail.” The first phase of the redevelopment, Holyrood Boulevard at the north end, consists of 96 fully leased residential units in two buildings.

Westcorp doesn’t provide a timeline for the redevelopment but, if it goes ahead, the project will eventually comprise more than 700 residential units, including a possible “congregate care” facility, large amounts of public space, and “convenience and service oriented retail up to 55,000 square feet.” Considering the first phase was completed nearly three years ago, there seems to be no rush to replace the other four blocks of aging, but fully occupied, townhouse units.

One clarifiction from last month’s column on new condominiums: Panache on 112th Street was designed by Gene Dub, but it is an Alldritt Development Ltd. project. √ David Norwood is a freelance writer/editor.

Contact dnorwood@edmontonians.com EDMONTONIANS MARCH 2008

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branding

A

d agencies are a world unto themselves. Sometimes to me they seem out of reach to many of the business owners I deal with. Creative? Absolutely.

Interesting from a marketing perspective? Of course. For the right company that is the right size with the right strategy, they can be a perfect fit.

However, my perceptions have been challenged.

I met Chris Bolivar, creative director and owner of Edmonton’s Optamedia, at a downtown networking function late last year. We have subsequently had a number of discussions about marketing companies and advertising agencies: how they differ and how they can effectively work together to complement each other for the benefit of the client.

So I though I would share a bit about Chris’ company and the differences between advertising agencies and marketing agencies.

By the way, Chris was profiled in Edmontonians Sizzling Twenty under 30 in 2006. I’m happy to report he and his team are still sizzling. Recently, Optamedia was included on another publication’s list of Alberta Fast 50 companies.

Chris started his company while he was working toward his degree in political science at the University of Alberta. He began programming websites which led to a contract to run a national advertising campaign. Upon graduation, Chris decided to take his business to the next level.

The first sizable client was the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo which required complete re-branding—a challenge for a start-up business. I asked Chris how he dealt with this foray into the realm of a full service agency. He wisely “…went out and found the people with experience and talent in areas we needed.” Valéry Goulet, his art director added, “Some businesses start small—we had to ramp up fast.”

With their first project under their belts, Chris and Valéry began building a capable team with a diverse set of talents

E

my space For Young Entreprenuers

expanding and skills. Over the six years they have been in business, this has created a culture with nearly zero turnover—a blessing in today’s competitive Alberta labour market. Optamedia focuses on individual talents and strengths and looks specifically for work that suits the team. They’re also keen on the value of continuous learning. Valery explained, “It’s serious sometimes, but the way we learn is not under pressure”.

Many business owners are unclear in the various facets of marketing and advertising and the intricacies of the industry.

Chris pointed out—and I agree—there are three types of marketing companies: “There are ‘strategy’ companies which typically employ marketing strategists who act as integrators for creative services, media planning, production, etc. They typically source creative, media, production, etc. An example of a company like this would be ED Marketing.

“There are ‘design studios, firms, etc.’ which do not have in-house strategy or media planning, but source production.

An example of a company like this in Edmonton would be Plumbheavy.

“Then, there are ‘agencies’ which have in-house strategy, creative services, media planning. Sometimes, these agencies will adopt a client’s strategy, rather than write it. Examples of companies like this are Optamedia, Red, Calder Bateman. Within this sector, there are small, boutique agencies such as ours, and large agencies such as the DDBs and TBWAs that have a worldwide presence.”

Each of these marketing specialists

have a place within a business’s marketing and growth plan – but one without the help of the others is not the strongest route to take. Design without strategy leads to beautiful brochures that collect dust and aren’t out working for the business. Strategy and design without proper, knowledgeable media buying may not attract the attention a business is seeking.

Marketing wise, I love this company’s business cards. The back of each team member’s card is designed based on that person’s creativity. This is so congruent with its branding. Optamedia’s promotional material states, “Creativity is in everyone; it just manifests itself differently with each person.” A business’s brand is not just words.

It is a life philosophy… the soul the business is built on… a way of doing business and Chris Bolivar communicating what you and your team value. These business cards impressively embody Optamedia’s core value of the strength in the individual.

Going forward, Optamedia is looking at expanding its focus from the businessto-business marketing at which it has excelled to include more end-user mass media campaigns. My immediate thought was, will geography be an issue? Edmonton is not known to be the advertising hub for many of the CocaColas or Mac’s of the consumer world.

Although Chris acknowledged the challenge, he’s hopeful that building on Optamedia’s reputation for quality will encourage more consumer based marketing contracts.

How can Optamedia forge the kind of relationships needed to break into the tough consumer market? I think it will take some travel on Chris’ part. He may have to partner with Toronto, Vancouver or New York design or marketing firms

By Erin Rayner

that have already made crucial in-roads with up and coming consumer companies. Why re-invent the wheel? A design firm in Toronto may be interested in the media planning and strategy that Optamedia could bring to the table.

Ideally this would enable each firm to go after larger, more high profile contracts.

Chris could also look at sponsoring specific events to get some increased recognition for his brand in the central Canadian market… and inspire some curiosity. With a bit of a budget, Optamedia could then host its own event in another market. Exploring such possibilities to build relationships is what marketing and sales are about. It’s common knowledge that we do business with people we like and trust. Stretch those wings, get some frequent flyer miles – go out and build new relationships, Chris. √ 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

Erin’s Top Three Marketing Mags I asked Chris to tell me where he gets his up-to-date industry knowledge. He provided his Top Three choices for marketing publications, explaining, “We read those magazines because it keeps us up on current marketing and creative trends across Canada. Keeping ourselves educated on what is going on in the marketing communications industry ensures that we bring the best and boldest ideas to our clients.”

Top Three marketing magazines that Chris Bolivar reads:

Marketing Magazine Applied Arts How Magazine

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Stuart Blackwell and Chef John

What’s in a

name?

MENU

Magic with Chef John Berry

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dd one part Australian outback cowboy, one part scoundrel, and a heaping dash of deep passion and love of winemaking, let it ferment for a while, and you end up with Stuart Blackwell, an engaging, enthusiastic, devoted winemaker from the Barossa Valley. His winery is about one hour north of Adelaide in southern Australia, and boasts some of the best Shiraz wines anywhere.

Stuart ventured into our city during the Big Chill to talk about Allison Lougheed St Hallet Winery, and I was fortunate to attend a luncheon at The Sutton Place Hotel where several of his wines were perfectly paired with each course. The matchup of Poacher’s Blend with the Oxtail Wonton and Corriander Coconut Soup was divine… the Faith Shiraz, paired with grilled Alberta Lamb and Poached Venison was a highlight for me.

As the senior winemaker at the family run winery, Stuart has been honing his skills for more than 35 years. St Hallet has long-term relationships with 60 growers in the valley, giving the winery access to the Barossa’s most prized old vine Shirza vineyards that date back over 100 years.

The end result is nothing short of a little sip of heaven.

St Hallet’s Faith Shiraz is made with grapes from 50-year old vines—a bold, robust wine that immediately got my attention. Aged in French and America Oak for 12 to 15 months, it would stand up well to a nice spicy pasta or perhaps lamb and wild game. It was voted best red in Australia in 2004 by Uncorked magazine. There’s an

interesting story behind this wine’s name: It was originally named as a tribute to the Germans who settled in the Valley in 1842, and their unwavering faith as they cleared and cultivated the land. With a touch of serendipity, Stuart’s wife’s name is Faith.

Another bold wine that impresses is the Blackwell Shiraz.

The grapes come from 80-year old vines growing on the north- and west-side sloping vineyards of the Borassa Valley sub-region. The berries are picked at full ripeness to gain optimum power and concentration of fruit flavour and a dense inky colour. The wine is left to mature in American oak barrels for two years. It was voted by AGT Wine Magazine as one of the top 10 Shiraz varietals under $30 in 2003 and 2004.

The best by far was the Old Block Shiraz, which comes from 80 to 120-year old vines that don’t produce like their younger cousins, but the fruit borne by these very old vines is exceptional. Rated as one of the best 100 wines in the country.

A pleasant surprise for my pallet was something Stuart called “fruit salad in a glass”… affectionately labeling it “a patio pounder, 26 ounces of fun.”

Poachers Blend is most certainly fun, especially when you learn how the wine got its name.

One day a neighbouring vintner brought Stuart a load of grapes he needed crushed, and assured him that he’d return the following Friday to pay him. You can see this one coming. He didn’t and Stuart was left without any payment for his trouble.

Three long years passed and still no money. So Stuart, being Stuart, went over to see the man, who was nowhere to be found. But Stuart found acres and acres of big, juicy grapes, ripe for picking. So the next day, he grabbed his harvester and helped himself to eight tons of grapes. He blended the juice with Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Reisling and found himself with a sensation on his hands. When it came time to name the wine, Poacher’s Blend was a natural.

Postscript: When Stuart eventually met the owner of the vineyard where he had claimed the grapes, he told him the story. After he stopped laughing, the grower entered into a business arrangement with Stuart and now supplies St Hallet with the varietal needed for Poacher’s Blend.

Several of the St Hallet wines were paired with an incredible menu created by Sous-Chef Allison Lougheed of The Sutton Place Hotel, who shared some of her recipes.

Pan Seared Sea Bass with Cabbage Parcel, Asparagus and Crunchy Vegetable Salad Plating: Place the cabbage parcel in a large flat bottomed bowl. Place the fish on top. Pour the sauce around the parcel and sprinkle the asparagus in it. Garnish the fish with the crunchy vegetable salad and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Sea Bass Season four 4 oz portions of sea bass with salt and pepper and sear in a hot non-stick pan to crisp the skin. Finish cooking in a 350ºF oven for 5 minutes or until desired doneness is reached.

Cabbage Parcel 4 leaves of Savoy cabbage, lightly blanched in boiling salted water, with the bottom part of the core cut out Julienned Vegetables: 1/4 zucchini, 1/2 red onion, pepper ends reserved from the crunchy veg salad, 1/4 carrot 200g Asian egg noodles Thai dressing Sauté the julienned vegetables and blanch the egg noodles.

Toss them together with the Thai dressing and set aside.

Place the cabbage leaf into a 2-1/2“ cutter so the cut out part overlaps inside. Fill with the dressed noodles and veggies, close in on itself so you have a parcel. Gently turn over and place in a pan on a piece of parchment paper.

Remove from the cutter and repeat. Put a couple of spoonfuls of water in the pan, cover with foil and heat in the oven at 350ºF for 10 minutes.

Thai Dressing 1 Tbs sesame oil 1 Tbs Kecap Manis 1 tsp minced garlic 1 Tbs chopped cilantro Salt and pepper to taste Whisk together.

2 Tbsp Hoisin Sauce 1/2 Tbs minced ginger 1 tsp orange juice concentrate 1 tsp Sambal Oelek

Crunchy Vegetable Salad 1 each: carrot, red pepper, yellow pepper, small Moolie 1/4 cup pea shoots, ends trimmed 1/4 tbsp black sesame seeds Peel the carrot and moolie and slice thinly on a mandoline.

Cut in a fine julienne. Cut the top and bottom off the peppers and reserve. Cut out the seeds and most of the flesh from inside the pepper. Cut in a fine julienne. Toss all the vegetables together. Dress at the last minute with rice wine vinaigrette.

Rice Wine Vinaigrette 2 Tbs Rice Wine vinegar 1 Tbs Sesame Oil 1 tsp orange juice concentrate Salt and pepper to taste Whisk together.

GST Butter Sauce 1 bottle St Hallett GST red wine 1 lb cold butter, diced 2 shallots, sliced 2 sprigs thyme 3 cracked peppercorns 2 Tbs cream Pour the wine into a pot, add the shallots, thyme and peppercorns and reduce the bottle of wine by 2/3. Slowly whisk in the cream and reduce a little more. Gradually whisk in the butter, a few pieces at a time, over very low heat, until it is all incorporated. Strain through a chinois, and keep warm but not hot.

Asparagus 4 pieces asparagus Starting at the head of the asparagus, slice it very thinly on a bias until you reach the last 2 inches of the stalk. Discard ends. Blanch for 15 seconds in boiling heavily salted water and shock in an ice bath. Drain. √ Contact Chef John Berry at jberry@edmontonians.com 18

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lifestyles Stitch ‘n’ Bitch LIVELY

who knew?

Needle heads

superhighway has created a need for people to get in touch with fundamental hands-on creativity. Conveniently, knitting is a basic skill that almost anyone can learn, those with Linda Bodo two simple stitches—knit and purl—can be knotted into shapes, forms and patterns as individual as you are. But, this onfession time: I used to be a closet knitter. does not involve Grandma’s yarn of yore. It’s about funky, Ever since my mother taught me to work the chunky and in-your-face fibres. And the needles… have you sticks, I have been knitting and crocheting seen the needles? They are nothing behind closed doors. The like the boring aluminium or ivory craft which belittled elderly ladies plastic sticks of old. declining toward senility was deemed ‘Stitch ‘n’ Bitch’ circles regularly dorky or incredibly un-cool. When gather across the country, questioned about my woven encouraging participants to banter wardrobe, I would lie, claiming the about spouses or the hottest handmade items were store bought. I American Idol contestants, and even went as far as sewing in labels partake in some wine tasting that I had absconded from other without missing a stitch. And these garments. To my relief, no one noticed sessions aren’t exclusively aimed my uneven stitches or asymmetric at women. Men are hooked as sleeves. well—preferring to loop doggie Today, knitting has become an sweaters and skull caps rather accepted art form. Julia Roberts knits on than leg warmers and laptop movie sets. Madonna, Sarah Jessica sweaters. With today’s hefty Parker, Bob Mackie, and Rosie Grier all lighted needles ed at er yarns and thick needles, knitting op ry te at B extol its virtues as a creative outlet and has become instant gratification. stress reliever. From that, a new audience That’s the appeal: You can knit a scarf in a couple of hours has come on the scene, picking up needles and throwing and wear it tomorrow. down wallets in search of quality fibres and high end wool.

The relative ease and mobility of knitting makes it the Why? Stress relief, creative outlet, sense of perfect hobby for the impatient. Just pick up your uber chic accomplishment—the list is endless. According to the Craft animal print bag and take your project wherever you go. If Yarn Council of America, women tagged gardening as their you are saddled with a short attention-span, then knitting first leisurely activity, knitting the second. Emphasis on fits into your lifestyle. It allows you to multi-task, proving home and all things domestic has made us hungry for items to be relaxing and productive at the same time. Knitting or touched by human hands, handcrafted with charming crocheting can slow your heart rate by allowing your imperfections, rare in value. thoughts to wander, much like meditation. You can almost feel your blood pressure dropping as you knit and purl your PURLS OF WISDOM way to calmer climes. It is also suggested that knitting is a When your fingers parlay a skein of wool into a shawl or a great way to keep fingers nimble, by avoiding problems sling chair, knitting becomes an exploration of self. stemming from arthritis.

Through the gentle click clack of needles, you begin to So kick back, catch a flick, and whip up a poncho Martha reflect… to feel centered and relaxed. The technological Stewart would be proud to wear.

C

CASTING OFF This ancient craft of knitting has spun back into vogue with a huge boost from the Internet. Online knitting sales, howto advice and free patterns have mushroomed across the Web and many ‘fa-knit-ics’ use this milieu to organize knitting circles. If blogs and e-mails are not your thing, check into local wool shops for ‘a loosely knit circle’ of Stitch ‘n’ Bitchers to hook up with in your area. Take on the latest craze in stress relief and transform tofu-based wool into posh ‘gosh-yarn-it’ cell phone cozies. Viva La K-1 P-1 revolution!

I don’t pick up the sticks as much as I used to, but my mother, Lilli, has never missed a stitch. After decades of knitting for friends, family and several generations of dogs, she has channelled her talents to a more compassionate cause. In the past year, she has knit and purled her way through 96 children’s sweaters to send to orphans in Romania. The warm woollies find their way to young ’uns living in harsh climates through the good people at Zion Baptist Church. If the knitting bug has you hooked, consider donating your handiwork to a church or favourite charitable organization.

Check out these hip knit units in and around Edmonton: Knit & Purl 780.482.2150 10412 124 Street NW, Edmonton, AB River City Yarns 780.477.9276 107-10106 111 Avenue NW, Edmonton Wool Revival 780.471.2749 6513 112 Avenue NW, Edmonton Ewe Asked For It 6523 111 Street NW, Edmonton

780.433.8975

Mi Yarn Shop 5014 50 Avenue, Camrose

780.672-0679

Kountry Knits & Sewing Centre 780.998.1635 10103 100 Avenue, Fort Saskatchewan Or, if you’re not sure knitting will be your thing, check out local thrift stores where you can pick a bagful of yarn for a fraction of the cost to test your interest and skill levels. √ Contact Linda Bodo at lbodo@edmontonians.com or visit www.absolutebodo.com

Knitting bags

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ACQUISITIONS, DIVESTITURES & CORPORATE FINANCE

with Stephen W. Kent, CA (780) 441-6793

Lean does not mean green We work with a number of companies that serve a specific niche in their marketplace.

They have revenues from five to $10 million and their work is typically very high end or specialized. As they fill a need that larger competitors cannot with any economy, they are left alone as long as they do not go after too large a piece of the market. These companies are usually staffed with very talented and educated over achievers. The employees are very loyal to the owner and are well remunerated. The company operates with a minimal administrative staff and consequently has very high margins and generates a significant profit for the owner.

When an owner decides to sell there is a valuation expectation that is driven by its current profitability. For instance if its earnings before taxes, interest and depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) is one million dollars and the industry typically values the company at a five multiple, the owner would expect five million dollars for the company. However, a disconnect occurs if the EBITDA being generated represents 35% of the revenue and the normal percentage being achieved by larger, similar companies is 20%. Buyers are reluctant to value the operations using an EBITDA that is calculated well above the average percentage of sales. In fact they will discount it as they know that new owners will have trouble maintaining such a high number. The larger the size of the company, the greater the overhead and processes are and the lower the EBITDA percentage. So although buyers may be prepared to pay five times EBITDA for acquisitions, their definition of EBITDA could vary significantly from the vendor’s definition.

Owners of highly efficient companies wear a number of hats and as the company grows they take on more and more diverse roles within its organization.

Many owners contemplate selling when their company has developed to a point where further expansion will require a whole new level of infrastructure and/or they are just tired of being the CEO, CFO, IT expert and VP HR. Potential purchasers know this and factor these costs into their valuation.

There are ways to bridge this gap and we can help you do it. If you are contemplating selling your business please contact me.

E-mail stephen.w.kent@ca.pwc.com or call 780.441.6793.

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