21,14

Mitch Pileggi Star of: X-Files, Stargate Atlantis, Sons of Anarchy, and the new Dallas

VOLUME 7.14

PRIME MINISTER of the Bahamas,

PERRY CHRISTIE,

Talks with Spotlight page 28

NOTES FROM N’KENGE: Tony Nomine

page 14

SPOTLIGHT COVERS

The Tony Awards in

NEW YORK CITY page 22

spotlightmagazine.ca Cover photo Joan Bateman / Gainsboro Studio

CHARL BROWN

z Ins Agcy Ltd Crystal Metz Ins Agcy Ltd z, etzAgent Ins Agcy Ltd Crystal Metz, Agent s Canada WayTrans SECanada Way SE etz, Agent2-1335 Medicine Hat, AB T1B 1J1 at, T1B 1J1 ansAB Canada Way SE Bus: 403-526-1345 6-1345 Hat, AB T1B 1J1 State Farm, Aurora, ON 1211999CN 526-1345 ON

Happy Canada Day Tumbleweeds RESTAURANT

Lunch Greek Night Monday to Friday Sunday and Monday 11:30am - 2:00pm

Gainsboro Spotlight: Mitch Pileggi 6 Scott Cowan Bill C 9 LaVar Payne

Page 10

Street Art 10 Wendy Struck What Can Vacations Teach You About Investing?

11 Jackson Woodruff From the Politics of Opposition to Government in Waiting 13 Drew Barnes

ora, ON

Private Function, Birthday or Special Event Today!

SCOTT COWAN - EDITOR (403) 504-7092

PHONE (403) 504-7092

Notes From N’Kenge 14-16 N’Kenge

ART DIRECTOR JOAN BATEMAN

FAX (403) 504-0041

Matt Ridley

SALES LYNNETTE SCHILE (403) 581-8075

EMAIL

Estate Planning - The Family Meeting 21 Dan Hein

OREST TKACHYK (403) 878-3260 DESIGNER MICHAEL MALINOWSKI

info@spotlightmagazine.ca

ADDRESS 377 - 4 Street SE Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0K4 For a complimentary subscription to Spotlight, forward your email to:

info@spotlightmagazine.ca

Published and Printed by Spotlight Magazine Disclaimer: No resplinsibility can be taken by Spotlight Magazine for any errors or omissions contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this magazine is not the responsibility of Spotlight Magazine. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Spotlight Magazine. Comments are welcome.

for our special guests 55 plus

Crestwood Dental Clinic 40 Years in Our Community 16 2 States for 2 Peoples 20 Mark Silverberg

Tony Award Highlights 22 Scott Cowan Do I Have to Consent to Travel? 24 Scott Stenbeck Our Trip to Cape Breton Island 26-27 Patrick and Lynnette Schile

Moments with a World Leader 28 Scott Cowan Your Station in Life 30 Mike Doll Crossword 32 Fishine in Southern Alberta 34 Patrick Schile

value features delicious meals made just for you

Dinner salad or cup

2301 Trans Canada Way Southeast of soup just $2.49 ith

té

Page 30

Page 26 Page 3

Sun Country Nissan 2015 NISSAN MICRA

2015 NISSAN SENTRA S

$9998

$19,998

N15003

plus freight

$78

Bi Week

N14149

$121

Bi Week

2014 NISSAN TITANS

2014 NISSAN ROGUE

$28,848

$31,788

CREWCAB 4x4

N14067

$199

Bi Week

2014 NISSAN PATHFINDER

SV 4x4

$36,999 N14015

$5000 giveaway

SV 4x4

N14252

$203

Bi Week

2015 NISSAN ALTIMA SV

Enter to win a $5000.00 cash giveaway with any purchase of a new or pre-owned vehicle. For the month of July! Earn up to 4 ballots on one purchase!

Contact one of our Salespeople. Any trade accepted! $236

Bi Week

$27,999 N14208

$168

Bi Week

All prices plus tax and fees. All payments tax/fees include 0 down for 84 months. Units not exactly as illustrated. Interest rates vary by unit. See dealer for details.

WALK, RUN, CRAWL, BIKE RIDE HURRY TO SUN COUNTRY NISSAN

1750 Gershaw Drive Medicine Hat • 403-526-9500 • www.suncountrynissan.ca

Gainsboro Spotlight

Mitch Pileggi

M H

itch Pileggi is an actor of numerous credits. You may recognize him as Walter Skinner, the FBI director from “The X Files.”

e has starred in Stargate Atlantis, Sons of Anarchy, and the New Dallas series. The list of other shows and movies in which he has guest starred are too numerous to mention in this limited space.

S

potlight caught up with him in a Calgary Hotel where we were able to ask some questions. Spotlight editor Scott Cowan presented him with a copy of his novel, “When Truth Lies.” They discussed the possibility of Mitch starring as the antagonist in the movie version of the book. The novel was originally written with a short list of actors and their personalities, as the muse for the villain.

Mitch was one of the author’s first choices.

Mitch has an incredible range in his acting skills. Few are able to switch from the good guy role to the malevolent. Mitch can absolutely make you believe he is a person not to be trifled with at your peril.

Mitch graduated from college in Austin Texas and worked in defense contracting. He decided to get in to the acting business. He was cast as the lead in the Wes Craven movie, "Shocker."

P

eople started to really notice him in his role of the FBI director Skinner in "The X Files." This led to a long list of guest starring roles in many popular series.

Mitch is a great businessman outside of acting. He owns a football team, a chain of restaurants, and an extensive portfolio of real-estate.

A

s with most interviews, I found Mitch to be extremely forth coming and generous in his comments. We sometimes forget that the people we see on the screen are just doing a job. In real life they are kind and open to fans and to media representatives. The few, who appear to resent the public and their celebrity, are in the minority. Mitch is the kind of person you would enjoy having dinner with and talking about anything but acting.

Page 6

Page 7

Politics

BillC

LAVAR PAYNE - MP, Medicine Hat, Alberta

Spotlight Magazine offers you the Hottest advertising for your hard earned dollar!!

Many business owners are reluctant to try print. Will investing your limited budgets in other mediums like radio yield necessary returns?

Consider the size of Medicine Hat. You can travel from the farthest side of the city, to the opposite end of the Hat in say, ten minutes. That is the most “drive time,” there is for your business to be heard via radio. Every station dilutes your chances of exposure. Four stations in Medicine Hat, so your

$$$’s =’s

10 minutes of advertising is now divided, thus RADIO leaves only 25% chance of your

being heard. Factor in XM radio and …well you see where that’s going.

Let’s chat about TV. Ask

10 people at random and discover how many watch local programming! TV =’s 55555$$$

In Medicine Hat you can get “the news” from papers. If you prefer a “We’re the only game in town” attitude... that also means

Newspaper advertising =’s $$$ Cheap newsprint, with poor resolution, that is

99% black and white format, Yuck!

“As a shopper, one publication in town has gone from my mailbox to the garbage for the last thirteen years, the other takes at most ten minutes to read, and I never scan the ads.”

So that leaves magazines. When you sit in a waiting room, the first thing you do is pick up a magazine to read. Any will suffice.

One of our readers said: “I recently picked up a magazine in a waiting room that postulated… “Will George Bush be re-elected?”

Magazine ads purchased once, may live on to be seen repeatedly, possibly for years!

Magazines = month after year of exposure.

Most of those old magazines in your doctor’s office are thin- 40/60 lb. test paper. Spotlight exactly one reason, to survive as long as possible.

uses

100 lb. paper, for

Spotlight is full color, glossy, designed to please the eye.

topics. We feature local and world renowned celebrities.

Over 160,000 e-mail readers see us each month. Thousands more hard copies are dropped in your mailboxes.

We include a cross section of

Spotlight ads start at only $75.00 monthly, less than $2.50 a day. We can accommodate the most strained budgets. Small ads are just as important to management as the two page spreads we sell.

Call a Spotlight rep now to discuss Medicine Hat’s premier print opportunities.

403 504 7092 or info@spotlightmagazine.ca

W

e are just wrapping up the Spring Session of the House of Commons and we have agreed to work until midnight each day. This will ensure our Government’s Legislation is introduced and other important Bills are ready to send to the Senate for their review.

T

here is some very important legislation for Canadians that we have introduced in Parliament the last few weeks I will touch on a few of those.

First, I want to let my constituents know that Bill C – 33 the First Nation Control of First Nations Education Act has finished 2nd reading and is now held in suspension. This is as a result of the resignation of Shawn Atleo the Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN). Many of the current AFN chiefs want the $1.9 billion dollars for education without any accountability. I have been assured by the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs that this will not happen.

We are currently debating a number of Bills before the House of Commons and I am listing a few of them as follows: • Bill C – 18 – Agriculture Growth Act • Bill C – 24 – Amending the Citizenship Act and Consequential Acts • Bill C – 31 – The Budget Implementation Act 2014

B

ill C – 18 has a section in the act referred to as the Plant Breeders Rights Act. There seems to be quite a bit of confusion and suggestions by the National Framers Union that farmers will not be able to use their own seed for planting their crop. Here is the section which does confer this right to farmers: 5.3 (2) The rights referred to in paragraph 5 (1) (a) and (b) do not apply to any act done in relation to material of a plant variety that is grown by a farmer on the farmers’ holdings and used by the farmer on those farm holdings for the sole purpose of propagation of the plant variety.

Bill C – 24 ensures that Canadian Citizenship remains a privilege through some important changes. The Minister of Citizenship and Immigration may revoke the citizenship of those individuals who knowingly use someone else’s citizenship documents to personate that other person, or alters those documents, or counterfeits or traffics in those documents. The Minister can also revoke citizenship for fraud or false representation and concealing material circumstances to get Canadian citizenship.

T

hose individuals convicted of high treason under section 47 of the Criminal Code and those convicted of terrorism (serving 5 years imprisonment) under section 2 of the Criminal Code will also be eligible to having their citizenships revoked by the Minister.

Bill C – 31 is part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan put forward by our Conservative Government. Since the global downturn our Government has put in place a plan to reduce over 160 taxes for Canadians, including small businesses. The Government’s lowtax plan is giving businesses strong incentives to invest in Canada, with real business investment now 5.2 per cent higher than its pre-recession peak. Investment by manufacturers in machinery and equipment is strong and outpacing the United States. Modern and up-to-date capital equipment increases productivity and competitiveness for Canadian companies to create jobs and raise living standards. With solid business investment and a resilient Canadian labour market, as a result, over one million net new jobs have been created in Canada since June 2009. This the best job creation record of all the G7 countries.

We are investing $75 million dollars to train older workers over the next 5 years for those who have lost their jobs. These funds will help them to get the training and skill they need to compete of jobs in the economy of today. We are also investing $11 million dollars to reform the Temporary Foreign Workers (TFW) program to ensure that Canadians are the first hired by employers. We have seen a number of companies abusing the program, so the Minster of Employment and Social Development will be revising the requirements for TFW’s shortly. These abusers must be identified and stopped as I have said in the past. Both Canadians and temporary foreign works must be treated fairly by employers.

Budget 2014 offers an impressive list and abundant support for job creation and innovation in trade (chapter 3.2) and supporting families and communities (chapter 3.4). Check out the government’s on-line report of the Budget highlights for more details.

I

continue to diligently and conscientiously serve the citizens of the Medicine Hat Constituency. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, I welcome your calls, emails and conversations; I can be reached in Ottawa, or through my offices in Brooks, Taber or Medicine Hat. Page 9

Street Art Art View

I

n the past I have written about public art, but Street Art is more specific. While it is a form of visual art created in public locations, it began and in some cases continues to be unsanctioned artwork done outside of traditional venues. There are many forms of street art including graffiti (but excluding territorial graffiti or outright vandalism) which boomed in the early 80’s, as well as stencil graffiti, pasted poster art, street installation, and sculpture.

S

ince the 90’s, street art has evolved, and is now known to include a wider scope of public art.

While I wouldn’t consider myself a street artist like Banksy or ROA, as a former set painter I have an interest in large-scale painting, and I find artwork set in the public domain can be intriguing, thought provoking, much more colourful than blank concrete walls, and it can create community in numerous ways. I understand the street artist’s motivation to communicate visually to a wide public audience.

S

ummer is on its way — which undoubtedly means vacation season. You may be looking forward to “getting away from it all,” but, as you know, vacations actually require a fair amount of planning. And it might surprise you to learn that some of the efforts required for successful vacations can impart some valuable lessons in other areas of your life — such as investing. ere are some vacation-related moves that you may want to transfer to the investment and financial arenas:

lthough the motivations of street artists are varied, many are generally interested in wanting to communicate directly to the public, free from any confines of the contemporary art world. Often with political and social messages, it serves as a form of activism and a means to communicate for people who have little resources for creating change. e can’t discuss Street Art without mentioning some of the biggest and best known; Shepard Fairey, Space Invader and ROA, who has travelled the world and taken his work from illegal graffiti to legal public murals. Banksy, a pseudonym for a UK based artist who began working in the early 90’s, had his growing fame take his work from acts of vandalism to “high end” pieces of art. In 2013, Banksy did a residency in New York City titled “Better Out than In”. Clearly he is still on the street, but he wears many hats. He is now described as a graffiti artist, political activist, film director and painter.

What Can Vacations Teach You about Investing?

H

A

W

Finances

Wendy Struck - Tunnel Painting

T

his summer I will be involved in a variety of public art projects including private commissions, Tunnel Vision; the SAW volunteer collaboration project, and another exciting piece for the underpass at 1st SE, in collaboration with the City of MH, the MH city police, students from city high schools, and Street Art Works.

I have also moved into the street to begin large scale portraits with the public watching. It’s an interesting experience which is counter to traditional street artists who often create their pieces in the privacy of the night. In the fall I will move into the studio to continue work on the paintings. By painting among the people I am forcing a shift in the process of creating. It is difficult to allow others to see and judge work in progress that is not yet resolved or completed, but the challenge is invigorating, and my hope is that it will provide the public with an honest look at an artist’s process.

I am happy to talk about my work in between bouts of painting. I will be on the 600 block of 3rd street every Wednesday for Medicine Hat’s Alive After Five, from 5 to 9pm. Come say hello.

Secure your home If you’re going on vacation for a week or so, you may need to take some steps to safeguard your home: stopping your mail and newspaper, putting on a timer to turn on lights, alerting your neighbors that you’ll be out of town, and so on. But while it’s important to secure your home today, you will also want to help ensure it will be there for your family in the future, should anything happen to you. That’s why you’ll want to maintain adequate life and disability insurance.

Know your route If you are driving to your vacation destination, you will want to plan your route beforehand, so that you can avoid time-consuming delays and detours. And to reach your financial goals, such as a comfortable retirement, you will also want to chart your course — by creating an investment strategy that is designed to help you work towards those goals based on your specific risk tolerance, investment preferences and time horizon.

Keep enough gas in the tank As you set out on a road trip, you need a full tank of gas in your car, and you’ll have to keep refueling along the way. And to “go the distance” in pursuing your financial goals, you will need to have sufficient “fuel” in the form of investments with reasonable growth potential. Without a reasonable amount of growth-oriented vehicles in your portfolio, you could lose ground to inflation and potentially fall short of your objectives — so, over time, you may need to “refuel” by reviewing your portfolio and rebalancing if necessary.

Protect yourself from getting burned If your vacation plans include a stay at the beach, you’ll need to protect yourself and your family from the hot sun — so make sure you’re all using sunscreen. When you invest, you can also get “burned” if you are not careful — especially if you are inclined to chase after “hot” investments. By the time you hear about these so-called sizzlers, they may already be cooling off, and, even more importantly, they just might not be appropriate for your goals and risk tolerance. Instead of becoming a “heat-seeking” investor, focus your efforts on building a diversified array of quality investments appropriate for your needs. If you only own one type of financial asset, and a downturn hits that asset class, your portfolio could take a big hit. But by diversifying your holdings, you can help reduce the effects of volatility. Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss.

A

s we've seen, some of the same principles that apply to creating a vacation may also be applicable to your investing habits. So, put these principles to work to enjoy a pleasant vacation — and a potentially rewarding investment experience.

Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund

2B-40 Strachan Court S.E. Medicine Hat, AB Bus: 403-504-0550 Fax: 877-335-9404 jackson.woodruff@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Cherie Martens i ense

Page 10

Wendy Struck

a es

r

essi na

Earnie Taylor er i e Manage r

Owner/Business Manager

Page 11

Politics

From the Politics of Opposition After many years of service in the Medicine Hat community, we feel confident that we can cater to your needs. We get the job done and we don’t just meet expectations; we exceed them.

Our customers keep coming back because we’re dependable, knowledgeable and pleasant to work with.

Our employees provide unmatched service, delivering top quality service for your business! Each is committed to personal service.

In keeping with this desire, we’re not satisfied with our work until you are.

Aside from our amazing staff, we take the time and care to make sure even the tiniest detail is managed, in every circumstance.

There, really, is no other way.

P

to Government in Waiting

olitics in Alberta has never been so alive and invigorating.

For the first time in years, the Legislature has a strong Official Opposition that can take government to task on the issues that matter to Albertans.

B

ut more than that, the Wildrose Official Opposition recently announced its positive vision for change. We’ve seen property rights attacked. We’ve seen front line services degraded. We’ve seen ambulance dispatch centralized and patients put at risk with poor management at Alberta Health Services.

ow, for the first time in a generation, Albertans are saying it’s time to replace the governing party. It’s time for a fresh voice in politics. It’s time to get rid of the politics of trying to stay in power for the sake of being in power.

That’s why Wildrose launched Moving Alberta Forward. Moving Alberta Forward is our commitment to Albertans. Whether it’s the unique challenges faced by families, seniors or students, cities or rural communities, Wildrose has a vision to bring the change that’s needed.

M

LYNNETTE SCHILE (403-581-8075)

A Wildrose government would do this with the 10/10 Community Infrastructure Transfer, which would allocate 10 per cent of all tax revenues and 10 per cent of budget surpluses to municipalities.

This would mean more money to our local governments so they can maintain roads and recreation facilities, build infrastructure, and meet their local priorities. Above all, the 10/10 Community Infrastructure Transfer would provide more certainty and a higher level of funding to municipalities than under the current patchwork of grant funding and the Municipal Sustainability Initiative, where communities never know what they are going to get.

Whether it’s the unique challenges faced by families, seniors or students, cities or rural communities, Wildrose has a vision to bring the change that’s needed.

The Politics of Infrastructure keep communities from receiving the hospitals, schools and maintenance they require. Taxpayers are just not getting value for money on sole-source contracts and the grab bags of benefits offered to PC insiders.

N

www.WTEVacations.com 417 3rd St. SE, Medicine Hat, AB

communities. Wildrose is committed to providing urban and rural communities with the support they need to manage their growth and meet the needs of future generations - without the Politics of Infrastructure.

A

s MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat over the past two years, it has been heartwarming to see so many young Albertans engage in politics. I hope readers will take the time to read about Moving Alberta forward and share their thoughts by visiting Wildrose.ca, or by contacting me directly at Cypress.MedicineHat@assembly.ab.ca.

DREW BARNES MLA

y colleagues and I plan to roll out nine Moving Alberta Forward policy initiatives over the coming weeks and months. Our first policy featured our plan for building urban and rural

Cypress - Medicine Hat THIS ISSUE’S

CROSSWORD

ANSWERS

Page 12

Page 13

Spotlight Around the World - New

York

NOTES from

Photo Credit: Chiun-Kai Shih

N’kenge

INTERVIEW WITH BROADWAY’S TONY NOMINEE CHARL BROWN!!!

S

mokey Robinson!!! A Legend that needs no introduction. We love his music, his voice, and his persona. Not only has Smokey Robinson contributed so much to the music world through Motown, he is still an active performer to this day! It was very difficult for the Motown: The Musical creative team to find the perfect Actor to fill such big shoes. Fortunately, through several developmental workshops of the musical before it opened on Broadway, they found Charl Brown. I had the greatest pleasure to sit down with my fellow colleague to discuss his amazing journey.

but I wasn't. I actually was just trying to get to Broadway still. That show didn't end up coming to Broadway although we thought it was at the time. I made some great connections. The Director and the whole creative team-Sergio Trujillo and Ron Melrose, all worked on Jersey Boys together. They ended up casting me in Jersey Boys which I ended up doing for a year in Las Vegas.

N'Kenge: Let's start from the very beginning: Where are you from and how did you get started in this business?

Charl: Yes. I was Las Vegas to do Jersey Boys for a year and then, I came back to New York and got my first show Off-Broadway Show which was a show called Walmartopia. I did that for 6 months. It had a really crazy plot. It was about Walmart and trying to take over the world. It was a drama (laughs). It was a funny piece, but eventually-after doing that for 6 months, I got my first show on Broadway which was Sister Act and I made my Broadway debut about 3 yrs ago.

Charl: Originally, I'm from sunny San Diego, California. I started doing theatre there. I started doing professional theatre when I was about 16 years old at the Starlight Theatre in San Diego. I then went on to the University of Southern California in LA, where I lived for four years while I got my Bachelor's Degree in Theatre. In less than a year after I graduated from college, I went on a European tour for 2 and a half years doing the musical Hair.

N'Kenge: Okay so through New York, you went back to San Diego, then Las Vegas?

N'Kenge: That's great. What were you doing in Sister Act?

N'Kenge: Wow! So that was your first big show?

Charl: Yes! That was my first big show playing Hud in Hair. Being from San Diego, I always dreamed of moving to New York and working on Broadway and being in the theatre but I just wasn't sure about the weather. After I got through my first german winter, and doing 8 shows a week for an extended period of time, and seeing what it really like working with people from New York on that show, I realized I might as well give it a shot. So I moved to New York when that tour was over and I've pretty much been here ever since.

Charl: I was in the ensemble and I was an understudy. I understudied the role of Sweaty Eddie and also 2 of the gangsters that are trying to chase Delores Cartier.

N'Kenge: Nice. I saw Sister Act and loved it so much. When did you start working on the workshops for Motown?

N'Kenge: So you came to New York and you started performing around like we all do when we first come to New York and half the time, you're booked on shows outside of New York.

Charl: Right! Ironically enough, the first show I booked here when I got to New York, was back in San Diego at La Jolla Playhouse. I had to go all the way back to San Diego to do a production of The Wiz and so that was fun. My parents thought I was moving home Page 14

Photo: 67th Annual Tony Awards Red Carpet

Charl: Well the first workshop I did for

Motown was in the spring of 2012 and I was doing Sister Act at night and I was doing the Motown workshops during the day and I think that's where we first met. That's what you call double duty: when you rehearse for 8 hours during the day and you come to do your Broadway show at night. That was a lot also during that time because the people I was understudying both took vacations- so I was in my understudy roles for 2 of those 4 weeks. It was a crazy time for me but it was fun. Sister Act then closed that summer and then we did another workshop of Motown that fall and we started up for the Broadway rehearsals the following winter.

I feel like now that you have this amazing addition to your name like: Tony Nominee Charl Brown, it has also rewarded you in certain ways when it comes to getting opportunities for new shows.

N'Kenge: Let's not forget your role of Jersey Boys on Broadway, which I went to see you in

Charl: Well you know, I just had my first experience with that a couple weeks ago. I was just up in DC at the Kennedy Center doing a production of Children of Eden.

Credit: Greg Mac Working directly with Photo Lunt-Fontanne Theatre Stephen Schwartz and this wonderful piece which is about Adam and Eve. Then Noah and his family. I played Adam and Noah and it was the first time I didn't have to audition for a role. They just called me and asked me to come and play this part. I had been dying to play for a very long time. So it's just the beginning of these types of things starting to occur for me.

Charl: Yes. In between Sister Act and Motown- I got a call with them saying:“Hey, do you wanna come do Jersey Boys again, on Broadway?” and I was like-“why not?, I've got 6 weeks off let's do it”. So the 6 weeks I thought I was going to be off and have a little bit of downtime I actually didn't- Broadway called and you have to say YES. N'Kenge: Who has been your mentor throughout this process?

Charl: I have a lot of people that have been in my corner: I've had a lot of great professors in college, a lot of great teachers, I don't have a mentor per se I just have a lot of people that I look up to, that I kind of try to emulate what they do- Brian Stokes Mitchell is one of my heroes. I've always wanted to be just like him. So now I’m getting to know him a little bit better through Motown. He's been friends with our director Charles Randolph Wright. Following his career and actually knowing him on a first-name basis when I see him , that's very inspiring to me. So it was very good to finally be where I've always dreamed of being, and interacting with the people.

N'Kenge: Yes, absolutely. So now the big question: how was it that day when you got that phone call that you were nominated for a Tony Award?

Charl: Well I was watching the awards announcements live. It was a big year for us all, and our show was going to get nominated. I had lots of friends that were possibly going to get nominated. So I was watching the nominations live and that's when my whole life at this point changed. Everything since then has kind of been like walking in a cloud. Sutton Foster said my name on the announcements and my world has had a different color since. It was a great morning and I haven't come down since.

N'Kenge: I know and that was a year ago. It still seems like it just happened Charl: Yes, it just happened. It still lives with me and my heart so it's one of the best things that's ever happened to me. We do the work because we love it. This is my passion, and to be recognized by your peers in something, that’s the highest award in theatre, it's just a phenomenal feeling. Its so validating that all the years of hard work and sacrifice, are finally paying off.

N'Kenge: Yes I'm like getting chills just thinking about it now (laughs). Well of course your family and friends are all proud of you.

N'Kenge: That is when you know that you've gotten to a certain level in your artistry. Where you don't have to wake up at 4am trying to stand on line for open calls and stuff, that's the reward.

Finally getting someone to say hey would you like to do this?!

Charl: Right. Then it's just a phone call and I hope there's more phone calls to come. it’s always good when theres a project that you really want to do and they just ask you to do it N'Kenge: Yes, and are you still auditioning?

Charl: Definitely. Every chance I get, because there's still Tv/Film stuff and there's other shows. As an actor you never know where your next job is going to come from, your contract is going to be up in 7 months so hopefully they’ll ask you back but if not, you need to be prepared for something else so I'm always looking for the next thing because as an actor, nothing is guaranteed.

N'Kenge: The only thing that's guaranteed is that voice of yours!

Charl: (laughs)Well yeah, I hope so.

N'Kenge: So now, where do you see yourself in the next 3-5 years?

Charl: In the next 3-5 years I actually would love to see myself on TV. My next dream is to be in a hit television show because that lifestyle is more normal. You get to go to the studio 5 days a week, you have weekends off, you're not rehearsing all 52 weeks of the year, you actually have some vacation time longer than a week at a time. Its not 8 shows a week. So its not as grueling and the pay is a little bit better too in most cases. So TV is definitely where I'd like Page 15

to see myself. Theatre will always be the thing I do and somewhere I return to. Starring in a broadway show again at some point as well, whenever this is over.

N'Kenge: There is a range of Actors/Singers who have just graduated High School. Would you recommend they just come to NYC and just do it or would you recommend them going to get an education first before doing the New York City thing?

Charl: I think no matter what, you have to get an education in the theatre. I've seen success happen all sorts of ways. I've seen people move straight to NY and have made it big. I think nowadays more people are going to school. I have a degree in theatre from USC. I felt that helped me not only as a theatre artist, but also as a person.

Someone who now has to manage my money and have to be an adult in this world. Having a college Degree definitely helped me with that. It's very competitive nowadays and casting directors and agents are now looking for people with degrees. So if you can afford to go to college I definitely recommend you doing that and if not then come to New York. At least try to hone your skills. Always be in acting classes and voice lessons. Just become better at all times.

N'Kenge: You got your Tony-nomination for playing Smokey Robinson. How was it meeting the Legend?

Charl: Oh gosh, now that was a dream come true. He was so nice to me. Whenever he sees me he’s like: “hey me,” and that's always fun. He spent his birthday here with us this past year and he's just a phenomenal man. It's so great to not only be playing such a legend but to have that person be such a wonderful, kind hearted person.

To be so giving and so accepting of your portrayal of them, its just something I couldn't have asked for anything more. Its been a great experience getting to play him while he's in the audience.

To Watch N'Kenge's Full Interview at the Lunt-Fontanne Theater with Broadway's Tony Nominee Charl Brown, go to the Divankenge Channel on Youtube!!

Crestwood Dental Clinic 40 Years in Our Community

40 years ago, a young dentist named Dr. Clifford Hrankowski moved his new family from Harniota Manitoba, to Medicine Hat Alberta, to open a new dental clinic to service the people of southeastern Alberta.

The year was 1974, and Medicine Hat was quite a different place from the community we all know today. In 1974, Medicine Hat was a small farming and ranching community with a population of 28, 152. Harry Veiner was still Mayor, but would be succeeded

by Mayor Ted Grimm later that year. The Medicine Hat Tigers were a new WHCL franchise and were defending WHL President’s Cup champs. This was the year that Crestwood Dental Clinic was established on the far south side of town on Dunmore Road. This was before Medicine Hat Mall was built. There was no Ross Glen, no South Ridge, and no Parkview subdivisions. The Medicine Hat Teepee, the Family Leisure Centre, and the Esplanade would be built years down the road.

Medicine Hat was indeed a different place in 1974. Alberta’s first oil and gas boom was gearing up and the city was growing rapidly. This rapid expansion created a need for many services, especially a need for expanded medical and dental services, to look after a growing community. This is the environment in which Crestwood Dental Clinic was established 40 years ago, to help look after the dental health needed of a vibrant and growing Medicine Hat. It is now 2014, and much has change here in Medicine Hat. We have a population of well over 60,000 people, there are new subdivisions springing up almost everywhere. The Dunmore Road, TransCanada overpass is nearing completion, and the new Events Centre is under construction. As Medicine Hat has grown, changed, matured, so too has Crestwood Dental Clinic.

Crestwood Dental Clinic now supports 6 Dentists, 9 hygienists and a staff of over 50 professionals that continually strive to provide all the dental services that a growing modern population demands. We have grown to offer a full range of services, from basic dental care to cosmetics, implants, orthodontics, dental surgery, cancer screening, and much more.

Photo Credit: Greg Mac Lunt-Fontanne Theatre Spotlight's Celebrity Correspondent, N'Kenge is a Pop/Opera Singer and Originated the role of "Mary Wells" in Broadway's Motown:The Musical Page 16

We are proud to have been given the opportunity to serve the health needs of our community for the last 40 years. We can only hope to continue to provide quality dental health care to Medicine Hat in the future. Thank you, Medicine Hat.

Matt Ridley

& Casting Call

Are you a model in the making?

International Designers coming to Medicine Hat November 1st, 2014 We require 50 models for Alberta’s first Black Tie Couture Event Candidates will have experienced European and New York models training them in an intensive 4 day modelling program. Our top model will be chosen November 1st by Heartland CEO, New York. The winner will receive an all expense paid trip to New York City with a guaranteed walk on a New York runway. Top models chosen will be offered Heartland modelling contracts.

Qualifications for females: 5’8” or taller Size 00- size 6 Limited body ink

Qualifications for Males: 5’9” or taller Athletic build Limited body ink

(Malmo-New York-Paris-London-Toronto-Moscow) A professional portfolio will be shot by Gainsboro Studio.

Bring your own clothing and shoes.

Training and portfolio fee applies.

Please apply to info@spotlightmagazine.ca or call Lynnette 403-581-8075 cell for more details and dates.

First In

1-866-910-WINZ

SUMMER CONCERTS

& S Y A SUND S Y A D MON e

eiv c e r s r Senio H C T A M in $20.00 0!

0 .

0 1 $ or PLAY f

406-395-5420

With the completion of 10 new hotel rooms, the Bingo Hall, new and improved restaurant menu, live poker, and BIG JACKPOTS, we are happy to be open 27 hours, 7 days a week! Our Casino continues to provide our guests with new real Las Vegas stlye gaming, larger payouts and exception food.

While under new management, as well as the Chippewa Cree Tribal Community, we are hoping you come and experience the great enjoyment that we give to all of our customers. 7 days a week, we also hour our Wheel Spin. Where one lucky customer, EVERY HOUR, has a chance to WIN up to $10,000 and on some days even more!

FULL VERSION NEVADA STYLE GAMES

WIN UP TO $1million

Sign up for a Players Card and receive

$5.00 in FREE PLAY!

Call to pre-book your room.

Rates: $59.00 - $179.00 per night.

From HWY 2, turn left onto HWY 87 and 14 miles to your left you will find Northern Winz Casino! 11275 Hwy 87 Box Elder, MT

T

2 States for 2 Peoples

he Arab and Islamic worlds have been seething in anger and humiliation from the moment of Israel’s rebirth. They have initiated and lost seven wars to annihilate her. They’ve incited hatred against her for decades through their mosques, media, and educational systems. So intense is their hatred, so humiliating is Israel’s presence in their midst, that any compromise on the core issues of settlements, borders, Jerusalem, a Palestinian right of return, can be tolerated. Especially Israel’s recognition as a Jewish state would be seen by the Arab street as a betrayal of such magnitude, that it would threaten their credibility, their honor, their power; and their lives.

S

ixty-six years after Israel’s establishment, the Palestinian refugees of 1948 and their descendants now numbering over five million, remain in the squalid camps of Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. They’re used as political pawns by their Arab masters who preserve UNRWA as a permanent reminder to them of their “right,” to return to Palestine. Over the decades, these Palestinians have been nourished by a hatred of Israel. They’re fed the illusion that their return is a “right.” So successful have Arab leaders been in convincing them of this, that any compromise of that ”right,” would be seen as a betrayal of the Palestinians’ ultimate hope – the destruction of Israel.

Given that no Israeli government would allow such a massive influx of Palestinians into its country (which would mean demographic suicide.) Arab leaders have used Israel’s refusal as a pretext for continuing the conflict.

R

obert Wistrich in his book: A Lethal Obsession: Anti-Semitism from Antiquity to the Global Jihad also leaves no doubt that the Arab rejection of Israel is based in large measure on Islamic principles that permeate the culture of their societies. It is reflected, he writes, in an irrational hatred of Jews who are portrayed as evil incarnate.

Page 20

These religious imperatives are also woven into the PLO Covenant (Charter) that sees Judaism as a religion, not a nationality. The Charter states that Jews are not a nation, and repudiates any claim Jews have to national self-determination, or national sovereignty, that is a Jewish state. Instead, it confers upon them the inferior religious status of “dhimmis,” under Islamic law. The Arab street will not accept the right of Jews to sovereignty on any of the land which according to Islamic law, forms part of the Islamic “waqf ” or holy endowment.

T

his hatred is also reflected in pernicious Palestinian attempts to negate Jewish history by denying the Jewish people’s ancient historical connection to the Western Wall, the Temple Mount, the Jewish historical sites in Judea and Samaria. Including, but not limited to Rachel’s Tomb, the Cave of the Patriarchs at Machpelah and even the city of Hevron.

B

y doing so, they are furthering the myth re-stated time and again by the American and European Left that Jews are “foreign occupiers,” and “imperialists.” They have no legal or historical claim to “Palestine.” For that reason alone, former US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton remarked recently: “Negotiating with the Palestinian Authority has less substance than negotiating with a hologram.”

Thus, the paradigm floated by Secretary of State John Kerry, the State Department, and the Europeans of “two states for two peoples;” is not only naive but dangerous.

It is inconsistent with current Middle East Arab culture and realities, and is therefore fatally flawed.

L

andes makes one more point. “Successful Zionism in the heart of the Islamic world,” represents not only an indignity (but) a shame so staggering, that it could only herald the death of the dominant culture that allowed it to happen.” In effect, the success of Zionism illustrates

both the power of modernity (technology, democracy, mass education) and underlines the impotence of Islamic and Arabic culture in the modern world. Although Israel is the only nation to go from third world status to first world status in the course of the 20th century, the ruling Arab elites prefer their peoples living in misery and poverty, rather than sharing in the wealth that would flow from recognition of a Jewish state.

In short, the Palestinians cannot recognize Israel without suffering an unbearable, catastrophic loss of honor. Israel cannot cede any further territory without absolute security guarantees and its recognition as a Jewish state. Given these two opposing realities, the idea floated by the US and the Europeans of “two states for two peoples,” is a fantasy.

I

t’s a centuries-long war against the very existence of Jews and especially an independent Jewish state in the Middle East. As such, Israel’s return to the 1949 armistice lines euphemistically referred to as borders, will not end this conflict. Rather, any Palestinian state established on the West Bank and Gaza will be the staging ground for “the final solution to the Jewish problem,” in Israel.

The rhetoric and barbarism hurled at Israelis today is part of the long and pathetic history of anti-Semitism, and dhimmitude, that has permeated Arab culture for centuries.

The pathologies of hate, rage, intolerance and jealousy, more than all the other issues combined, have doomed this region to many more years of conflict. An objective review of these facts shows that Arab leadership is uninterested in any remotely plausible agreement with Israel on any of the core issues for the reasons cited.

Only when this zero-sum cultural mindset changes, if ever, will peace be possible.

Mark Silverberg is an expert in counter terrorism.

Finances

Estate Planning – The Family Meeting Estate Planning Series, Part 3 of 4

Families usually underestimate the emotional complexity of their wealth issues. The personal and relational issues in estate planning are often forgotten or assumed to take care of themselves. Yet, in actuality, not addressing these issues often leads to emotional stress, misunderstandings and ongoing family conflict. The good news is that with a little planning and open communication there is the opportunity to leave behind peace, clarity and order for your family, friends and charities.

At the core of an effective Estate Plan is the communication among everyone involved so that there is an understanding of your intentions and wishes.

Step 1 – Choose & Design your Legacy Self-examination – When I’m gone, what will people say about my life? What will future generations recall about me? What qualities will people say I possessed? How do I want to be remembered?

Many people associate the word “Legacy” with money and assume it means leaving a financial inheritance. It is so much more.

LEGACY SCENARIO #1 In a previous column I shared about the premature death of my father in 1964. He left no will and no life insurance for our young family. Although he intended no harm, the lack of a Will, the imposition of the Public Trustee and the holdup of his estate for over a year –compounded the great strain of this overwhelming ordeal for my mother and our family. Not only was our family given a stipend to live on that was decided by the public trustee, but the money was not released to the family- other than an initial amount to pay for a house – for a year and a half. Even though my dad was a great fellow according to all that knew him, discussion of my dad often includes mention of the unfortunate lack of a Will.

This is part of my dad’s legacy.

BMO Wealth Institute Survey by Pollara, May 2013 found that those who haven’t had a deep, full conversation recognize the downsides • 54% - Conflict between family members after the death of a loved one • 42% - Unpleasant surprises after the death of a loved one • 37% - Legal Complications • 22% - Financial & Taxation Issues LEGACY SCENARIO #2 In 2001, I was co-executor in the estate of a close friends’ grandmother. One of three adult children had predeceased “Grandma”. The surviving 2 adult children shared the estate evenly, and the children of the 3rd child received no allocation or acknowledgment. The Will was explicit about the 50/50 sharing between the 2 surviving heirs. Closer examination of the lawyers’ file uncovered background worksheets where initial knowledge of 3 was clearly recorded, but somehow faded from the ensuing plan for distribution. No reasons were given, and no explanations were available. I can report that all these years later, the 3rd family branch maintains an abiding sense of rejection and exclusion. This has become “Grandma’s” legacy.

Step 2 – Prepare for the Family Meeting Gather your documents – This includes your Will, Power of Attorney and Personal Directive. If you have already prepared them, review them in light of the legacy you intend to leave. Make sure your legacy is reflected in the documents.

Prepare a list of your assets, their value and their cost base. For example, if you want to be remembered for fairness, then you need to ensure that fairness is clearly reflected in the documents, or if not then provide an explanation. Perhaps you have chosen to leave more money to one child than another. There may be a very good reason for doing so; however, without an explanation your heirs might interpret this as unfair. An explanation might prevent years of emotional strain and family conflict.

Plan for items with emotional/sentimental value – Some families take turns choosing possessions by a random draw. However, if you have a possession or possessions that you know are loved by several of your heirs it may save significant heartache to discuss how to distribute these possessions. This is even more important in light of the large number of second marriages and blended families.

Final Meeting Details – Who do you want to attend, when is a good time, and what is the best location?

Step 3: Hold the Family Meeting The more open you are in these conversations the more likely your wishes will be carried out and your legacy ensured. It may be hard to know how to broach the subject, but by not opening the topic and having a forthright conversation you risk your legacy being one of misunderstanding and hurt for years to come. If you are not comfortable running the meeting, consider a facilitator.

Conversation Starters • “I was thinking about what happened to John Smith, and it made me realize…

• “My independence is important to me, but I’ve made arrangements in case I need help one day – I’d like to tell you about my plan…

• “I’m meeting with you because I want to share some details about my estate plan…

• “I want to take this opportunity to talk about my wishes and intentions for all my possessions when I’m no longer here.

• “Now that you’ve heard from me, what do each of you feel and think?”

Conversation Guidelines • Clearly identify the issues – do this when you begin the meeting and be concrete and clear.

• Avoid assumptions and expectations – recognize that everyone will likely see the situation differently…. Family members are often surprised that their children or siblings hold a certain viewpoint.

• Hear out the point of view of anyone involved – one of the greatest human needs is to feel heard and understood… not agreed with, but understood. Try to run the meeting with the thought that everyone is entitled to their opinion; everyone should have an opportunity to speak. Be patient as everyone will or could react differently. This could take more than one meeting.

For more information, contact:

Dan Hein, BRE

Associate Investment Advisor BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. Medicine Hat, AB Tel.: 403-528-6771 Dan.Hein@nbpcd.com www.bmo.com/nesbittburns The comments included in this article are not intended to be a definitive analysis of tax applicability or trust and estate law. The comments contained herein are general in nature and professional advice regarding an individual’s particular tax position should be obtained in respect of any person’s specific circumstances. . All insurance products and advice are offered through BMO Nesbitt Burns Financial Services Inc. by licensed life insurance agents, and, in Quebec, by financial security advisors. ® “BMO (M-bar roundel symbol)” is a registered trade-mark of Bank of Montreal, used under licence. ® “Nesbitt Burns” is a registered trade-mark of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of Montreal. Opinions are those of the author and may not reflect those of BMO Nesbitt Burns. The information and opinions contained herein have been compiled from sources believed reliable but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to their accuracy or completeness.

Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund and IIROC

Page 21

Southern Alberta's Largest Hotel & Convention Centre

Top Left: Alycia Kaback: The It Factor Productions Top Right: On the red carpet with Serena Bateman, Actor Middle Right: Tony Award winning producer, Pat Addis Bottom Left: Inside Radio City Music Hall Bottom Right: Center stage Tony Awards

Spotlight delivers Tony Award updates to our readers.

Page 22

187 Deluxe Guest Rooms 34 Luxury Suites Alberta Massage & Spa Stunning Courtyard Indoor Waterslide Park Banquet & Meeting Facilities Casino Elements Entertainment Lounge Exercise Room Hair Salon Gift Shop Plus Much More!

1051 Ross Glen Drive SE Medicine Hat AB T1B 3T8 1-800-661-8095 www.medhatlodge.com The gold hue is result of 24 karat gold leaf on the walls and ceiling.

The Law

_

DoI Have to Consent to Travel?

A

t this time of the year, there are vacations planned with children. The issue of travel, and the necessary consents often arrives. For travel over any international border, including to the U.S., a notarised document is needed showing that one parent consents to the travel of the other, with the children. Often at this time of year there are applications. One parent or the other refuses to provide the necessary consent to facilitate such a vacation.

T

he objections to providing consent are varied. Sometimes it is a righteous indignation. The travelling parent seems to have more money available, and is able to take more extravagant trips with the children. The other parent is worried about what they see as an attempt to buy the children’s favor with trips. Other times the travelling parent has refused to be reasonable on other requests. So the other parent refuses the consent to react in kind. Occasionally I run into a situation such as “well, you refused to consent to the children being registered in swim lessons, so I am not consenting to you taking them to Disneyland.”

A

s with all areas in family and divorce law where children are involved, the only thing the Court cares about is the best interests of the children. When dealing with an ex-spouse that has been difficult themselves, it can be often difficult to understand why they should get co-operation when they turn around and need a consent

Page 24

to travel. Unfortunately, while a lot of difficult parents make their own bed and probably deserve a taste of their own medicine, the Court’s concern is not reciprocity between parents, but the effect on children.

W

hen I do see these applications, they are almost always resolved with the parent seeking travel, receiving an order compelling the other parent to sign a travel authorisation. Regardless of whether there is a lack of parity between the vacations on which each parent can afford to take the children. Regardless of difficult conduct in the past. The only exception to this is when there is a bona fide and provable risk that the parent seeking travel will abduct the children and not return. Even that is not always good enough if the travel is to a Hague convention reciprocating jurisdiction or a country that is part of an international agreement to assist in the return of children taken by one parent against the wishes of the other. In such circumstances, if the parent were to refuse to return with the children, they would face arrest by the authorities in the country they travelled to, the children would be returned, and the parent would be extradited back to Canada. Likely face Criminal Code charges of abduction.

_

Dr. Bryan Murray Changing the Lives of Our Patients 25 years of experience! $1900.00 single tooth implant plus crown and grafting.

Call today for your free consultation

Just a short drive away Convenient Location Free parking

1.877.910.2396

wheelchair accessible

abledentalgroup.com

Monthly payments to fit your budget

Able Dental Group offers warm, safe memories, because under anesthesia there are no memories at all.

Competitive pricing Direct bill to dental insurance Sleep dreamily through dental procedure Dental implants and restorative dentistry 24 hour emergency

W

hen I am asked about this issue by my clients, my first question is usually if there has ever been a threat to abduct the children or not return them. Or if there has been conduct where the travelling parent has refused to return them from access visits. Where the conduct is definite enough, there can be reason for refusal.

Otherwise, as difficult as it often is to hear, I usually have to advise my clients that if they refuse and the matter goes to Court. Two things are likely to happen. The first, in the case of a high conflict divorce or family case is that the travelling parent is probably going to make sure one way or another that the children hear that it is the other parent’s “fault,” you are the reason they can’t go on a trip that they have been looking forward to with excitement. The second is that if the travelling parent goes to Court for assistance, they are probably going to succeed. The parent resisting the travel will probably spend enough money, between my costs and the Court costs ordered against them when they lose the application, that they could have taken the children to Disneyland themselves.

Scott Stenbeck

Why Us?

General Dentist

The Travelling Spotlight

Our Trip to Cape Breton Island

I

f you have never been to Cape Breton Island, you absolutely need to make a point to go. This island has something for everyone. Once you make your way across the Canso Causeway, you cross over into another world.

We based our trip around visiting Baddeck, a beautiful town on Lake Bras D’or (a large salt water lake on which Alexander Graham Bell had a home). The museum created in honor of Bell is a must see as well, as it showcases his many inventions, such as the telephone, high speed boats, and many others. Baddeck also has great accommodations and food.

F

rom there, we drove to the Cabot Trail, starting in Cheticamp, a small Acadian town on the water. It’s a quaint fishing village with a rich sense of pride stemming from their French Acadian heritage, which made the visit very warm and inviting. We stopped at a record store to buy some local music to listen to as we drove around the countryside. The owner of the store was extremely friendly and helpful, as he recommended the Rankins, the Trotters, and other local acts. After talking for a bit, he invited us to a kitchen party at his house that night, where

we got to experience the local seafood and music firsthand. I can’t begin to describe how friendly and inviting the people of Cape Breton Island are. Please stop by and enjoy the local Acadian cuisine in Cheticamp, as there is a selection of very good restaurants. The town is also known for its beautiful catholic church, Saint Peters Church.

From there, we followed the trail along the Margaree River, which is known for its Atlantic salmon. On your way, you will travel through a number of small towns that look as though they are frozen in time. As you drive through the highlands and follow the trail along the mountains, you will see beautiful scenery that you will never forget. The drive will take about a full day. If you want to stop and enjoy your drive to the fullest, feel free. Don’t rush through as nobody in the Maritimes is in a hurry. The second day, we drove to Sidney and Fort Louisburg, which is the largest reconstruction project in North America.

The French founded the original settlement in 1713. When you pass through the dauphine gate of this old fort, you will step back in time to the forts heyday. Plan to spend most of your day

at the fort, as there is so much to see there. After the fort, we went to Rita McNeil’s teahouse on the big pond. Now, unlike my wife, I’m not a big fan of tea, but there was a lot of great memorabilia there and they served great food alongside their tea.

On the third day of our trip, we drove to Mabou, where the

Rankin family has a pub named the Red Shoe. They have cold beers and great food there. I recommend the fish cakes, as they’re to die for. The atmosphere in the pub is laid back and the place is filled with some of the friendliest people you will ever meet.

While talking to our waitress, we got onto the topic of lobster fishing and she told us that her father is a lobster fisherman.

She could see that I was really intrigued about it, so she asked us if we wanted to join her and her dad on their boat the next morning to go lobster fishing. The funny part of this story is that I had promised my wife that I wouldn’t do any fishing on this vacation, since for the last twenty years of vacation I have always gone fishing. But to my surprise, she said I could go. At first, I thought she was testing me, so I decided I would pass the test by politely declining the offer. But after turning down the waitress’s offer, I found out my wife was being honest and would have let me go. That was a big mistake on my part.

T

here are plenty of other things to see and do in Cape Breton Island, such as visiting the Genora distillers, a company that makes amazing scotch-style single malt whiskey. Also, don’t forget to stop by the Highland College or Gaelic College, which both have a rich history drenched in Scottish culture. All the things I listed are merely a few of the many sights to see on the island. If you plan to enjoy your trip to the fullest, please take at least 5 days to visit the island.

Page 26

by Patrick and Lynnette Schile Page 27

Moments with a

W O

World Leader hile waiting in the elevator of the New York Times Square Hilton, several people entered all wearing blue suits, I asked. “Are you guys at a life insurance convention?”

ne person pointed and said, “This is the Prime Minister of the Bahamas.” Most would have cowered in embarrassment. Instead I held to my motto of, “Seize the moment.” Mr. Prime Minister I asked, “May I have an interview?”

Many politicians I’ve interviewed seem stuffy and pretentious, I found Mr. Christie compelling and real. The following are excerpts from an extended discourse the Prime Minister offered.

I

believe that tourism is everybody’s business. Each year some 20 million visitors come to experience our beaches, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, sport fishing, eco tours, local food dining, culture and other activities.

project ever undertaken in one phase in the Caribbean opening in December.

• The Memories 400 room Blue Diamond Resort in Grand Bahama, with airlift from five Canadian and eight U.S. cities.

• The Resorts World Bimini resort, new casino, daily Superfast Ferry service from Florida.

• The Cove, at Gregory Town.

• Sandals, February Point and Crab Cay resorts in Exuma.

• Cat Island Partners residential and PGA Golf Course project in Cat Island.

• Club Med and Sand and Ocean refurbishment.

• Continued refurbishment and new features at Atlantis.

• Acquisition, upgrade and expansion of One & Only Ocean Club as premier ultra-luxury resort by Access Industries, operator of iconic hotels and owner of Warner Music Group.

I would like to take this forum to touch briefly on three areas which are very relevant to achieving sustained and further growth.

“Many politicians I’ve interviewed seem stuffy and pretentious, I found Mr. Christie compelling and real.”

We are justifiably proud of the many accomplishments of The Bahamas’ Ministry of Tourism over the last fifty years. One of the most recognized advertising slogans and product identifiers “It’s Better in The Bahamas,” has drawn many millions. Caribbean tourism has grown by “leaps and bounds”.

F

In order to do a more effective job in the task of greater penetration of existing markets and creating an awareness in new far flung global markets, stronger public/private sector partnerships will become increasingly necessary.

Secondly, I strongly advocate that we must be unified in our relationship with cruise lines.

A

t the same time as we espouse public/private partnerships at the regional level, it is of primary importance that we do so as individual countries.

To embrace these opportunities, the Region must mirror what we are doing in The Bahamas upgrading public infrastructure like: • The new Lynden Pindling International Airport built at a cost of over $400 million and operated to world class standards.

• The new $30 million dollar terminal facility in Abaco.

• Creating new docking and harbor facilities in Abaco, Andros, Bimini, Exuma.

• Urban renewal.

Again The Bahamas is aggressively pursuing this through a mix of new and renewed products like: • Fishing and boutique resorts and high end private residences.

• The $2.6 billion Baha Mar resort, the largest single resort

Page 28

irstly, we must recognize we are a specialized region, and very special countries within the region. Our rich history, our culture, and our people are our greatest assets which have impacted world acclaim.

T M

hirdly, we must aggressively and in a united manner address the menace of crime and the resulting cautionary travel advisories. y brief time with the Prime Minister has encouraged me to visit the Bahamas again. I whole heartedly recommend Nassau. I enjoyed it more than Hawaii. Don’t miss eating at five star restaurants, Greycliff. It is the best food I’ve ever experienced. After, you can sit and enjoy a cigar on the same sofa as Winston Churchill. Possibly Prime Minister Perry Christie will join you there.

Call to book now at: 403-527-8844 or online at www.executiveontheridge.com

W

here is the road to happiness? I think we’d all love to have an answer to that question. For me, the road to professional happiness, started with a beer and a phone call.

I

had graduated from McCoy (GO COLTS!) back in 1994 and unlike many of my peer’s, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I decided the best thing to do was take a year off, work, and figure out the next step in the mean time. I probably spent too much time in bars, pubs and pool halls that year but at some point during that year, I decided Social Work would be a good calling for me. I enrolled in the program and a short few months in, I knew this wasn’t for me. I finished the first year but decided I wasn’t going to continue on. I was back to square one.

A

while later, a few buddies and I were having a few beers on a Friday night when hunger struck and we needed to order a pizza. I called a local pizza establishment to place our order. Before getting to our order, the gal on the other end of the line asked “Are you on the radio...you sound like a radio guy.” I told her I was not but at that point the dream was hatched in my brain! I could be on the radio...right?

I looked into various broadcast programs and applied to several with the hopes of getting into Lethbridge Community College, so I would still be close to my family and friends in Medicine Hat. The competition to get into broadcast programs at the time was fierce.

As many as 150 people would apply for the available 25-30 spots.

Anything you could do to set yourself apart from the others would be huge!

W

ith that in mind, I approached the folks at 1270 CHAT about the possibility of my volunteering at the station. They took me up on my offer in short order. However, I did not start out “On the Air” but instead, I was cleaning out storage sheds, washing station vehicles, and doing every other gopher job the station could find!

Was it exactly what I was hoping for? Not really, but it did give me the ability to say that I volunteered at a radio station. I did gain acceptance into the Broadcast Journalism program at LCC and now I was on my way to “living the dream”!

T

he next several years included a return to LCC for my second year, a move to Lloydminster for my first “paying” (I use that term loosely...lol) radio gig and an eventual return to CHAT as an evening announcer. Over the years, I was lucky to receive opportunities to learn and advance. I moved up to doing afternoons Page 30

and taking care of the music on CHAT 94.5. About 3 years ago, I was promoted as to the role of Assistant Program Director for CHAT 94.5 and MY 96. Just weeks ago, I received the news that I was the new Program Director for CHAT and MY! From cleaning sheds to having control over two fantastic radio stations! I couldn’t be happier!

Radio has presented many unique and special opportunities over the years. I’ve had the chance to meet and interview many “stars.”

People like Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, and even the iconic Garth Brooks. I watched Eric Church play the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville at midnight with about 100 other radio people. Later that night, we visited the home of John Rich of Big & Rich fame.

I interviewed the Premiere of Alberta on a couple of occasions. I spent a day with one of my all time hockey heroes, Theo Fleury, and was able to assist him in getting his message out about Childhood Sexual abuse. All experiences I wouldn’t have had without radio.

R

adio is unique in that we are lucky to have the power to help people because of our listeners and business partners. I watch with amazement every year when the CHAT 94.5 Food Drive brings in well over 100,000 pounds of Food for our Food Bank with huge support from our Medicine Hat & Area business community. I was blown away when we organized a Flood Relief Concert and brought it to life only 3 weeks after the flood, largely because of partnerships with people like the MH Exhibition & Stampede. That concert raised $70,000 for The Red Cross thanks to Medicine Hat coming together. I watch my coworkers create happiness on a regular basis.

Most recently, KJ & Kirby, our morning team on MY 96, grabbed on to a message we received from a listener regarding her son and his lack of a birthday party with friends. By the next day, KJ & Kirby had a fantastic birthday party planned for that young autistic boy. The party would include water sliding and pizza at Medicine Hat Lodge, a free movie and snacks at Cineplex, and season tickets to the MHC Rattlers Basketball Season. I watch our CHAT morning team, Jim & Val, go into schools and read to kids and also serve as Honorary Chairs for The United Way. When you watch all these things happen, get to work alongside the people who make them happen, and maybe play a small role in helping these things happen, it’s a pretty good feeling.

O

ne of a kind experiences, great people, and the chance to extend a helping hand. Those are the things I enjoy most in radio....and I get to experience it all thanks to a beer and a phone call!

Mike Doll

Insurance & Financial Services

ENERGY INDUSTRY

Simplified insurance and financial solutions for the energy industry.

• General Liability • Disability Insurance • Health & Dental Plans Thomson-schindle-Green insurance & Financial services ltd.

#100 chinook Place, downtown medicine hat

(403) 526-3283

Toll-Free: 1-800-830-9423

SPEC 687•AP

Y

our Station in Life

TEAM

40

Celebrating

Years!

A Story Behind Every Smile!

(403)526-0777 • www.crestwooddental.ca • 200 1899 Dunmore Rd SE

Page 31

CROSSWORD

PUZZLE Across 1- Entr’___ 5- Hardware fastener 9- Banned apple spray 13- Fresh 15- Architect Saarinen 16- Approached 17- Conical dwelling 18- Wife of a rajah 19- Comparison word 20- Connections 21- Lustful look 23- Fourth highest peak in the world 25- ___ well...

26- Trouble, slangily 27- Certificate 30- CD-___ 31- Permit 32- A bit 37- Futile 38- Newly married woman 40- Latin love 41- Monocle 43- Home ______ Culkin movie 44- Ltr. holder 45- Prophesy 47- Idle talk 50- ___ about (approximately) 51- Except if 52- Son of Rebekah 53- Anaconda 56- Flat-fish Page 32

Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (http:/www.bestcrosswords.com).

Used with permission.

57- Knocks lightly 59- ___ Ark 61- Bahrain bigwig 62- ...___ saw Elba 63- Skin layer 64- Meets with 65- Rod’s partner 66- Coarse file Down

1- Italian wine city 2- Capital of Calvados, in NW France 3- Cookbook amts.

4- End for Siam 5- Mother of Calcutta 6- At hand 7- Pot used to contain the ashes of

a dead person 8- Laborious 9- Role player 10- Actress Christine 11- Accumulate 12- Actress Russo 14- Egg yolk 22- Shade tree 24- Actor Cronyn 25- As a companion

26- Walked 27- Humorist Barry 28- Now ___ me down...

29- Ballet bend 32- Lisa, to Bart, briefly 33- Strong Australian horse 34- Med. care providers 35- Top-notch 36- Corner 38- Handrail 39- Invitation request 42- To a smaller extent 43- About 45- Remains of any organism preserved in rock 46- ___ roll 47- Garden figure 48- Stan’s pal 49- Visionaries 51- Employs, consumes 52- Foil alternative 53- Vamp Theda 54- Resistance units 55- PDQ 58- 100 square meters 60- Not ‘neath

1018 Allowance Ave. S.E., Medicine Hat, AB, T1A 3G8

WWW.CITYSIGNSANDCANVAS.CA

403-529-5535

FREE desert for every MOM Answers on page 13

CLike us on Facebook and receive FREE pancakes!

1343 Tans Canada Way SE, Medicine Hat, AB

Man Cave

By Patrick Schile

W

hile southern Alberta doesn’t have the immense number of lakes and rivers as northern Alberta or Saskatchewan, we more than make up for it with our quality of fishing. The best example of our excellent fishing culture is the enormous trophy rainbow trout found at the Bulls Head Reservoir. The 55cm one fish limit is the reason for these trout growing as large as they do. Because of this limit, the reservoir never gets overfished, which allows for the trout to grow larger than they normally would.

W

hen it comes to fishing in southern Alberta, you can’t forget about Cavan Lake or Michelle Lake, which are both known for their sizable rainbow trout. If you are more in the mood for big brook trout, Spruce Coulee is the place to go. This excellent lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery in the heart of the Cypress Hills Provincial Park and is a great place to go ice fishing in the winter. If you want to stay in the park, don’t forget to check out Reesor Lake for rainbow trout and the Main Lake in Elk Water for pike and perch. Fishing in the Cypress Hills Provincial Park is amazing as the park provides some of the best scenery in Alberta with its rolling hills and majestic trees.

I

f you want to catch mainly pike, there are plenty of places to go in southern Alberta, such as Murray’s Dam, Forty Mile Reservoir, Grassy Lake, Rattlesnake, Tilley B, Yellow Lake, Rolling Hills Reservoir, Lake Newell, and many more. Some of these lakes have been known for their walleye and perch populations as well, but please see the regulation guide before fishing to check the catch, size, and possession limits. While on the topic, let’s not forget the South Saskatchewan River, which is known for trophy size fish in a variety of species, such as sturgeon, pike, walleye, goldeye, and burbot. There are plenty of great fishing holes all along the river

Page 34

from the forks in grassy lake were the Bow and Old Man Rivers meet to become the South Saskatchewan, all the way to the Sandy Point Bridge off of the Route 41 highway.

I

n the heart of Medicine Hat, there are many superb places to fish. If you have never fished in a river, or haven’t been out to one in a while, don’t rule out this great fishery. All you will need is a lawn chair, a tub of minnows (or a pail of worms), a pickerel rig, a few weights, and a rod and reel, for you to be set for a great day or evening. It’s a great place for kids to go and fish as it is right in town. To get there, you can take the bus to Strathcona Park or even walk downtown, and in a few minutes you’ll be fishing. The best thing about fishing in southern Alberta is that you never know what you might catch. It could be a 15lb pike, a 4lb goldeye, or even a 12lb walleye, all within a few minutes of your home. Since I was a kid, I have spent a lot of time fishing the river and have never been disappointed by the amount of or size of the fish that I caught in the Medicine Hat.