30,15 by Spotlight Magazine

Fashion Files Jay Godfrey at Mercedes Benz VOLUME 02.15

CHHS

Musical ”all shook up” Get your tickets now!

Guilty Until Proven Innocent

THE LAW Careful Where You Get Your Advice

R E W RE

F T T m o A o M r d a e H x Ma

y a d To

Photo Credit: Joan Bateman - Gainsboro Studio1

Tumbleweeds RESTAURANT

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

Private Function, Birthday or Special Event Today!

for our special guests 55 plus

value features delicious meals made just for you

Agcy Ltd Crystal Metz Ins Agcy Ltd sntAgcy Ltd Crystal Metz, Agent nada WayTrans SECanada Way SE gent2-1335 Medicine Hat, AB T1B 1J1 T1B 1J1 anada Way SE Bus: 403-526-1345 45 T1B AB 1J1 State Farm, Aurora, ON 345 1211999CN

Dinner salad or cup

2301 Trans Canada Way Southeast of soup just $2.49 ith

Cherie Martens i ense

Owner/Business Manager

a es

essi na

tĂŠ

Earnie Taylor er i e Manage r

SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE EDITOR SCOTT COWAN (403) 504-7092

PHONE (403) 504-7092

ART DIRECTOR JOAN BATEMAN

scott-cowan@live.com

DESIGNER CARL GEORGE

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

THIS ISSUES

CONTENTS

COVER STORY Matt Frewer Cover Story....................................................4 LAW Careful Where You Get Your Advice................................22 Scott Cowan Scott Stenback, Lawyer OPINIONS Guilty Until Proven Innocent............................................8 FASHION FILES Scott Cowan Featuring Jay Godfrey.......................................................25 Scott & Joan Bateman-Cowan FINANCE (Cover Photo: Ania Charlot) What can you learn from “Oracle of Omaha”.............10 Edward Jones Donating Appreciated Securities..................................12 Dan Hein, BMO POLITICS Mandatory School Fee Burden.......................................18 Drew Barnes, MLA POLITICS Democracy in Action........................................................20 Brent Dunstan, Columnist

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY FROM SPOTLIGHT

Disclaimer: No responsibility 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.

r e rew

F t t Ma

is someone who just enjoys his fans and it shows in conversation. Whether he is on stage speaking to crowds, at a signing table, or as I found him backstage during our inteview. Chatting with Matt is easy, no pretense or celebrity shining through. You walk away feeling like you’ve made a new friend. Born in Washington but raised Canadian, he is an ambassador for Canadians to the world of Hollywood. We should all applaud him.

killed off in the second season. He moved to his latest television project the new series, “The Librarians.” He plays a really good bad guy, which is so opposite of his true persona. Knowing Matt personaly gives you a trmendous appreciation for his acting skills. While in character he can make you believe is a tremendously vile individual, devoid of compassion. He can speak volumes with a steely glare. He is one of the rare actors who can communicate anger, even psychotic tendencies, with facial expressions.

There are few people more Born in Washington but raised Canadian, he is down to earth than Matt. He As a teenager an ambassador for Canadians to the world of was willing he played a Hollywood. We should all applaud him. to answer any mean game question I posed, of hockey. He simply saying he was injured at had nothing to age fifteen ending his hopes of a professional career. After graduation he tried acting. hide. Then he added, “If you ask something I Having been trained in England he naturally don’t like, I’ll just refuse to answer.” began acting the classics. He soon tired of Shakespeare. “Too many thee’s and thou’s,” he We laughed about his upcoming but now expressed. Although, I would buy a ticket to defunct Broadway debut. The lead who he was excited to work with passed away suddenly, hear his voice reprise Othello or King Lear. which he said, “put me on the unemployment His unusual break with destiny came through line.” voicing the famous Max Headroom. He parlayed the character into a cult classic. From there He is a committed environmentalist, being the he retired the computer generated celebrity spokes person for Rainforest Action Network. and moved on to movies, and television. You He spends his private time at his homes in would know him from Stephen King’s “Riding Malibu or the Gatineau Hills of Quebec. He the Bullet, Desperation, The Stand, and The claims Canada is his home. Lawnmower Man.” He did voice over’s for the animated Pink Panther cartoon, and starred in Matt is definitely someone who would fit in at your home watching a game of hockey, or “Chronicles of the Paranormal.” He was one of the leads in Steven Spielberg’s mini-series, “Taken.” He played the hardnosed G-man. Willing to kidnap little girls from their mother because they carried alien genes. He mentioned that the actors working on the show were continually amazed at the series special effects. Considering the show was only a ten part television production. His recent credits placed him in the sci-fi thriller, “Falling Skies.” Unfortunately he was

sharing the BBQ on a summer’s evening.

The new Murano*

COME IN FOR A LOOK 2014 PATHFINDER SL FWD WAS:

$37,613 NOW:

$30,636 Stk#: N14005

2014 TITAN PRO-4X

NOW:

$35,347

Stk#: N14230

Guilty Until Proven Innocent?

infractions. They cared only about s society stumbles into crafting a fantasy to disparage 2015, some simple Mayor Ford. Simply because questions need to be he had the audacity to win as a Scott Cowan addressed. In the past few years conservative in Toronto. Few if we’ve witnessed the political left any of the protagonists could scott-cowan@live.com trash hundreds of years of common stand a fraction of the scrutiny law. I refer to the presumption they heaped on their victim. They he “must” be guilty. I’d be more of innocence until proven guilty. held him to a standard of morality convinced if one or two made such Liberal policies planted over the they despise and denounce if accusations, but twenty? last few decades are blossoming. accusations are made toward Why would a celebrity of Cosby’s liberals. Today, trials by media demand stature need to force women to that conservatives in particular, Bill Cosby is the latest target do anything? False accusations “prove their innocence.” Case in of the self righteous left. He generated from jilted aspiring point, the previous mayor, now committed the unpardonable sin actresses trying to gain attention, councilman of Toronto, Rob Ford. of saying young black men should or get even, makes more sense. There was never a formal charge, pull up their pants and get a job. Regardless, he was accused, so he’s let alone a conviction. Yet the He gave an impassioned speech at guilty until proven innocent. man was destroyed in the court a NAACP meeting. He voiced his of public opinion. The Liberal belief that minorities should take Britain’s Prince Andrew isn’t prosecutors scrambled their media responsibility for themselves, and immune, he is rich and royalty. Therefore bringing him down minions, instructing them to hurl quit blaming white people. makes commoners feel powerful. innuendo as factual evidence. Day Truth is liberals wish they could after day sophisticated suggestions This didn’t play well with a black entitled audience. I find it rule and reign. Since they can’t, color the perceptions of the interesting shortly thereafter, destroying a royal makes them general public. fifteen women conveniently particularly happy. Repeat the lies long enough, come forward telling stories they become truth, perception from decades ago. These women I don’t know if any of these men are innocent or guilty. I do know becomes reality. We live in the sought out a celebrity, went to era of the demythologizing of the his room, drank alcohol, claimed none have had their day in court. They’re all still innocent until hero. We love to see the mighty sexual activity, and years later proven guilty. fall. Especially if they’re elected they suddenly realize they were as conservatives. I’ve been around drugged. The left is thrilled You might consider... after enough city politicians to know, to throw Cosby under the bus Liberals run out of princes, those who bitch about others are without credible proof. celebrities, and mayors, the next the biggest hypocritical offenders. to meet the virtual guillotine will The worst kept secrets in Canada Once again, there has been no revolve around the peccadilloes of trial or conviction. None of these be you. If we allow the socialist women would prevail in a court of policy of trial by media, with the Toronto council members. “assumption of guilty until proven law. For the left, the allegations Yet, after voters elected Rob are proof enough. Even Oprah is innocent,” none are safe. We’re Ford the far left leaning council weighing in and accusing. So pull cultivating a lynch mob society decided with the help of the Cosby’s honors from universities, ignoring inconvenient obstacles like grand juries. Who needs Liberal Premier, to nullify the cancel concert dates, and brand truth, or chain of evidence, give wishes of Torontonians. They him a rapist. us politically correct versions, usurped the mayor’s office, and Who cares we know nothing of the eliminating facts. Just stir up the blatantly proceeded to destroy a man’s reputation. None of these women or their motivation making mobs emotions, stage an “Occupy the accusations. Twenty women march.” Then supply the rope and inquisitors had real legitimate say they were abused, therefore a tree. concerns about the alleged

TEAM Insurance & Financial Services

ENERGY INDUSTRY

Simplified insurance and financial solutions for the energy industry. • General Liability • Disability Insurance • Health & Dental Plans Thomson-schindle-Green

#100 chinook Place, downtown medicine hat

(403) 526-3283

Toll-Free: 1-800-830-9423

SPEC 687•AP

insurance & Financial services ltd.

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.

hat Can You Learn from the “Oracle of Omaha”?

arren Buffet, the “Oracle from Omaha,” is considered one of the most successful investors in history. Yet while the investment world may seem complex, Mr. Buffet’s advice is actually pretty simple. Here are a few Buffet quotes, along with some suggestions on putting them to use: “Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it is marked down.” Essentially, this means you should look for good investment vehicles whose price may have dropped. A bear market tends to drag down many stocks — even those with strong fundamentals and favourable prospects. These stocks might then be considered “bargains.” While there are many factors that go into determining the value of a stock, one way to evaluate whether a stock is “expensive” or “cheap” is by looking at its price-to-earnings ratio (P/E). For example, if Company “A” has a share price of $20 and earnings per share of $4, then it has a P/E of 5. On the other hand, if Company “B” has the same share price of $20, but has earnings per share of $2, its P/E would be 10. So it would be considered more expensive than Company “A.” Be aware, though, that the P/E ratio works better as a measure of valuation when you are comparing two companies in the same industry. “Time is the friend of the wonderful business, the enemy of the mediocre.”

Be prepared to own quality stocks for the long term. A quality stock is one that has a high potential to provide predictable and sustainable growth in earnings over time. Over time, your discipline may be rewarded. On the other hand, if an investment is not of high quality, its flaws will be revealed over the years.

“If investors insist on trying to time their participation in equities, they should try to be fearful when others are greedy and greedy only when others are fearful.”

Trying to “time” the market — that is, attempting to buy when prices are low and sell when prices are high — is a difficult task. Too many people do just the opposite: They try to “cut their losses” by selling when the market is down and then go after the “hot” investment whose price may already be as high as it’s going to go. Mr. Buffet clearly is not in favor of a market timing approach, and those who try to do it, he says, are probably better off by going against the crowd. Keep in mind, though, that even when holding investments rather than trying to time the market, investing in equities does involve risk, including potential loss of principal. “When we own portions of outstanding businesses with outstanding managements, our favorite holding period is forever.” When should you sell good investments? Never, according to Mr. Buffet. And while this endless holding period may not be possible for all of us, you get the idea: the longer you keep a good investment, the better off you may be when you do sell. “The line separating investment and speculation, which is never bright and clear, becomes blurred still further when most market participants have recently enjoyed triumphs. Nothing sedates rationality like large doses of effortless money.” The lesson here? Be an investor, not a speculator. A long run-up in the market can increase your wealth, but it may also make you prone to risky behavior if you think that all your investments will rise indefinitely. As an investor, you may well want to consider Mr. Buffet’s ideas— after all, they’ve sure worked well for him.

Edward Jones, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

www.edwardjones.com

How Well You Retire Depends on

How Well You Plan for It.

Whether retirement is down the road or just around the corner, Edward Jones can help you reach your goals. As a first step, consider opening an Edward Jones Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll invest for the future and maybe reduce your income taxes. And since Edward Jones takes the time to develop personal relationships, we better understand your retirement goals. If you consolidate your retirement accounts to Edward Jones, we can help make sure your investments are simplified.

To learn why it makes sense to discuss your RRSP with Edward Jones, call or visit your local Edward Jones advisor today.

Jackson D Woodruff Financial Advisor .

2 B-40 Strachan Court S E Medicine Hat, AB T1B 4R7 403-504-0550

11 Member â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Canadian Investor Protection Fund

Donating Appreciated Securities The benefits of charitable giving go on and on – from helping those in need to personal satisfaction when giving to a cause we feel passionate about. Charitable giving also makes good sense from a tax perspective. With proper planning, you can reduce your total income tax liability and maximize the value of your donation. In an effort to increase charitable donations, Canadian tax law allows for the full elimination of any capital gains tax on donations of publicly traded securities to a registered charity. Qualified securities include shares, bonds and mutual funds listed on a prescribed stock exchange. Charitable Donation Tax Credit Similar to cash donations, the fair market value of property (i.e., securities) donated to a qualifying charity is reported on a charitable tax receipt, which can reduce an individual donor’s taxes through a donation tax credit. The maximum amount of all donations an individual can claim on his/her tax return each year is 75% of net income. Donations not claimed in a given tax year can be carried forward for up to five years. For donations in excess of $200, the federal tax credit is calculated at the top marginal rate, regardless of the marginal tax rate of the donor. To encourage donations by bequest – in the year of death – the maximum donation that can be claimed is 100% of the deceased’s net income. Any donations that cannot be claimed in the year of death can be claimed on the deceased’s previous year’s tax return, also up to 100% of net income in that year. Donating securities If you are planning to make a charitable donation this year, consider this tax-saving strategy; especially if you’ve already determined that you will be selling some of your current investments to provide the cash to fund this donation. By donating securities directly to a charity, you have an opportunity to reduce the tax you would otherwise have to pay on the sale of your investments. Although a donation of property is considered a disposition for tax purposes, as a result of these tax incentives the taxable capital gain realized on a donated publiclytraded security can be eliminated. Whether you donate cash or the securities directly, you will receive a tax receipt for the full amount of your donation, regardless of the tax treatment of the capital gain.

Tax Benefit of Donating Appreciated Securities Tax on disposition Capital gain on sale of security Taxable portion of capital gain Taxable capital gain

Sell Security and Donate Cash $50,000 50%

Donate Security $50,000

provides the deceased’s estate with after-tax proceeds of $34,200 and also provides for a $25,000 donation to a charity. In other words, it only costs the deceased’s estate an incremental $11,200 ($45,400 $34,200) to make a donation of $25,000 to a charity.

Tax Benefit of a Donation Upon Death

Current value of investments $20,000

Taxable portion of capital gain

$10,000

$5,000 ($4,600)

($2,300)

Net cash to deceased estate

$45,400

$47,700

Donate half of the investments less charitable donation amount Add potential tax savings (vs. other income) from donations ($25,000@46%) Net cash to deceased’s estate

($25,000) $11,500 $34,200

Net cash to charity

$25,000

Source: Donating Securities, BMO Financial Group, December 2013

Corporate charitable giving can also provide the same tax benefits as individual giving, through: 1. Potential elimination of any capital gains tax on a qualifying gift of publicly-traded securities. 2. A tax deduction equal to the fair market value of the gift. A corporation will not receive a tax credit for the gifted qualified securities; instead, it will be entitled to a deduction equal to the value of the gifted property. This will result in a reduction of the tax that would otherwise be payable on income earned by the corporation. However, similar to individuals, corporations are also restricted on the amount of charitable deductions claimed annually. A corporation can deduct charitable donations, up to a maximum of 75% of its current year net income, with the potential to carry forward any excess for up to five years. For a Canadiancontrolled private corporation which donates a qualifying publiclytraded security, the 100% non-taxable capital gain portion will be added to the balance of its Capital Dividend Account (CDA)7. This notional account, when positive, may be paid to shareholders on a tax-free basis, which could facilitate the withdrawal of funds from the company to its shareholders.

Gift of Qualified Securities ($0)

Donation Credit $50,000

$50,000 $20,000

Income tax (46%)

0% ($11,500)

Charitable donation amount

$50,000

Capital gain

$25,000

Income tax payable (46%)

Donation of Half of Investments

No Donations

$50,000

Add tax savings from donations (46%)

$23,000

Net Tax savings

$11,500

$23,000

Net cost to donate $50,000

$38,500

$27,000

$23,000

Source: Donating Securities, BMO Financial Group, December 2013

Now let’s look at how making a $25,000 donation from this investment will impact the deceased’s tax liability if properly bequested in the deceased’s Will. By donating half of the investment, the total tax liability on other income realized in the year of death can be reduced. So much so, that a $50,000 investment

Individual

Corporation

Federal and Provincial personal tax credits on • Corporation may expense the gift value the gift value: (up to 75% of net income) as a charitable • Federal portion is 15% for the first $200 deduction. and 29% for amounts over $200 • Capital gain on qualifying security has 0% • Credits limited fto 75% of net income inclusion rate. Non-taxable portion of the (100% in year of death) capital gain is added to CDA and a posi• Capital gain on qualifying security has 0% tive balance of CDA may be withdrqwn as inclusion rate. a tax-free dividend. Source: Donating Securities, BMO Financial Group, December 2013

Call to discuss other Special situations: • Donating Shares or proceeds acquired through employee stock options • Donating Flow-Through Shares

For more information, contact:

Dan Hein, BRE

Associate Investment Advisor BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. 606 2nd St SE Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0C9 Tel.: 403-528-6771 Dan.Hein@nbpcd.com www.bmo.com/nesbittburns

Opinions are those of the author and may not reflect those of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. (“BMO NBI”). 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. BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of Montreal. The comments included in the publication are not intended to be a definitive analysis of tax 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. ®“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. If you are already a client of BMO Nesbitt Burns, please contact your Investment Advisor for more information.

Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund and Member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada

Southern Alberta's Largest Hotel & Convention Centre

187 Deluxe Guest Rooms 34 Luxury Suites Alberta Massage & Spa Stunning Courtyard Indoor Waterslide Park Banquet & Meeting Facilities Casino Elements Entertainment Lounge Buffet Restaurant Exercise Room Hair Salon Gift Shop Plus Much More! 1051 Ross Glen Drive SE Medicine Hat AB T1B 3T8 13 1-800-661-8095 www.medhatlodge.com

CRESCENT HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS

The music of ELVIS PRESLEY速 Book by Joe DiPietro DIRECTOR JENNIFER DAVIES VOCAL DIRECTOR RALPH BROWNE MUSICAL DIRECTOR CURTIS PERRIN

FEBRUARY 3\4\5 \6\ 7 AND 10\11\12\13 SHOWS AT 7:00PM

ALSO 2:00PM MATINEE ON FEBRUARY 7th DOORS OPEN HALF-HOUR PRIOR TO PERFORMACES Tickets

$20+SC sold on the CHHS home page www.chhsweb.ca and

at the CHHS bookeepers office during school hours. Some tickets may be available at door

THROUGH SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH THEATRICAL RIGHTS WORLDWIDE

DREW BARNES MLA Mandatory School Fees Cypress - Medicine Hat

Will Continue To

#5, 1299 Trans Canada Way SE Medicine Hat, AB T1B 1H9 Phone: 403 528-2191 Toll Free: 1-866-339-2191 E-mail: cypress.medicinehat@assembly.ab.ca Every September, it’s the same ol’ story. While students excitedly prepare to return to school, parents prepare to be nickel-and-dimed by the PC government on mandatory school fees. This, despite the fact we parents already pay to cover these costs in our taxes. There’s simply no rhyme or reason for these fees. Families pay for education already, but it seems every year parents get dinged on a host of fees that should already be covered by our tax dollars. We pay for administration costs. We pay for photocopying. We pay for noon hour supervision fees. And yes, in some cases, we pay for lockers and textbooks. If you factor in the cost of transportation and extracurricular events like field trips, a family with three school age children could spend upwards of $2,000 on school fees in any given year. Make no mistake about it, this problem lies squarely at the feet of the PC government, which chronically underfunds our provincial school boards, leaving them to makeup the shortfalls. While the PCs wastefully spend millions year after year on perks, salaries and severances for friends and insiders, they can’t seem to make a point of funding our schools adequately and ending the burden of school fees for families. Recently, the government made some changes to the Education Act in order to enhance the transparency around these school fee calls. While my colleagues and I applaud any effort to address this issue, these changes don’t come even close to fixing this problem.

January 16, 2015

will still hamper back-to-school season for families, school board will continue to face funding shortfalls and the PC government will continue to misspend taxpayer dollars on perks for itself, as it always has. There is a better way. A Wildrose government would end mandatory school fees once and for all by adequately funding our school boards. This would be a cost-neutral process, as we’re the only provincial party willing to cut the bloat, waste and excess the PCs have grown so used to. This problem of overspending hasn’t been addressed under Premier Jim Prentice, who is toying with the idea of raising taxes on families at the same time he’s spending more than $4.3 million per year on political staff salaries in his office. Alberta needs a new way of doing things. It comes down to priorities, and sadly, the PCs have failed to prioritize Alberta families. Wildrose is the only party that will fight to ensure our kids receive a world-class education at no added cost to hardworking Alberta families. Drew Barnes, MLA Cypress-Medicine Hat

I value your input! Please call me at the Constituency Office: 403-528-2191 or by E-mail: cypress.medicinehat@assembly.ab.ca

This Issues Crossword Answers

Under these changes, steep and unexpected school fees

Burden Parents

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

Why Us? 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

General Dentist

Democracy in Action

adly, the title “Fast & Furious” is taken, as it describes the last year in Alberta politics perfectly. The action has been fast; the pace furious. 12 months ago Alison Redford was Premier, and the Wildrose Party was thriving under Danielle Smith’s leadership. What has transpired since then on Alberta’s political stage has been dramatic and game changing.

Alison Redford’s stunning fall couldn’t have been steeper and deeper had she stepped off a cliff. It was widely thought her inexplicably poor judgement and sense of entitlement had finally burned down the Progressive Conservative Party and its 4 decade grip on the Alberta Legislature. Misgivings about the Wildrose looked to be eclipsed by disdain for the PCs. However, a funny thing happened on the road that appeared to be heading toward a political changing of the guard unseen in Alberta since CCR had the #1 song and gas was 44 cents a gallon. Jim Prentice became Premier.

ment, typically based upon, but not limited to, party affiliation, and can align themselves as each sees fit. The Canadian experience, for the most part, has been fairly straightforward, single party governance. This is not the case in many countries that share our Brent Dunstan parliamentary form of governColumnist ment, where backroom deals and coalition governments are commonplace. I recently asked someone what the purpose of the opposition is. The reply; “To hold the Government accountable.” Actually, no. The people hold governments accountable. That’s democracy. Opposition parties have two roles; to oppose the government in the legislature, and to present alternative policies to the electorate as a potential government in waiting.

The former Federal Cabinet Minister seems to have breathed as much life into a moribund and stale institution as the newly elected Pope. He outflanked his opposition on their right by recruiting notable conservatives, reversing most of Redford’s missteps, and adopting policies very unlike former Premiers Stelmach and Redford. Proof of his success came when the PCs swept 4 by-elections, widely viewed as a litmus test of voter opinion.

So what should opposition members do if they can do neither? If they agree with the actions of the government, and hence, cannot present contrasting policies to the people, what then? The conclusion that these former Wildrose members came to was to stand with the government rather than oppose simply for the sake of opposition. Agree with the decision or not, in this light, their actions have some defensibility.

All this led to one of the most unforeseen developments in Canadian political history. In an unprecedented move, Smith and 8 other Wildrose MLAs crossed the floor, joining the governing PCs, and reducing the Wildrose to a mere 5 seats, on par with Alberta Liberals. This move has, of course, disappointed and angered rank and file Wildrose members. Calls for the 9 to resign and stand trial in by-elections still ring out. These calls, while understandable (but somewhat oblivious to the irony that interim leader Heather Forsyth crossed the floor to join the Wildrose from the PCs), are based more on emotion than an understanding of our political system.

Changing party affiliation is not outside of parliamentary rules. Those who do so will be held to account in due time. Each of these MLAs will be subject to the full process of election; from contesting party nomination in their respective ridings, through to the general election itself.

When we elect MLAs, we don’t elect governments; we elect legislatures. The members of that legislature form the govern-

Grassroots political movements often call on their elected representatives to make decisions according to conscience, and not exclusively by party line. If they take actions and make decisions that their constituents disagree with, then constituents can exercise their right to to participate in the democratic process of nominating and electing someone else. That is democracy in action, just as what we have witnessed in the past year is also democracy in action.

cell/text: 403.501.1108

An Opportunity For Motivated Individuals

Careful Where You Get Your Advice

D Scott Stenbeck

ivorce and separation is a stressful event. I think people truly need to have the support of friends and family. I caution clients all the time to be very careful. The line between people lending support, versus attempting to push you into certain courses of action. It is not unusual for me to meet a client, especially for the first time, with a support person with them. Often a trusted friend, a family member, sometimes even a new partner. I encourage this. There is a lot of information in those early meetings. I write lists and make notes, but the presence of who extra person that may remember some of the advice I have given that a client may forget, can be very helpful to them later. Although I give clients my direct cell, and they can call me anytime for clarification, the do forget some things. Sometimes that friend or family member is useful in that way.

However, it starts to become concerning when friends and family start to cross that line of support. To often they pull a client towards certain courses of action. Now, at the outset, I think most people are well intentioned. The problem is that they may not have all the facts or the background. So they don’t know why I may advise a client one way or another. For example, people often have a difficulty coming to grips with the fact that divorce in Canada has been no-fault for over 40 years. The courts will often not even hear evidence about who left who and why. It often seems to be “common sense” to friends or family members, when someone refused marriage counselling or committed infidelity, that there should be some legal penalty in the proceedings. But there simply isn’t. I also encounter a lot of projection. Sometimes the friend or family member has had their own unfortunate or high conflict separation. They want to take some action that they wished they would have taken, but vicariously through the client. I find a lot of times that the old cliche that “misery loves company”, is often true. I caution people to be very, very, careful about whose advice they take. If that advice is coming from a friend or family member that is very unhappy after their own divorce or separation, tread carefully. However that is not to say they often don’t have valuable insight, however. I have spoken with a lot of people that recognize real mistakes they made in their own divorce or separation. They have wisdom to pass on as part of a legitimate desire to help a client not make the same ones. It is not uncommon for a friend or family member to have a real dislike and hostility towards a client’s ex. It is natural to want to align with and take the side of someone close to us. It’s also not uncommon for a client to have a parent or long time friend that didn’t like the ex spouse from the start! In these situations, I often see the friend or family member urging the client to take a variety of punitive and high conflict actions. Whether they are the best solutions or otherwise. Again, it is easy to give “advice” when it is someone else’s life. As close as that advisor may be to the client, it is still not actually them that has to foot the bill. Secondly live with what the consequences may be afterwards. Particularly where children are involved, it is the client and not anyone else that is going to have to deal with that ex spouse, day in and day out, where the kids are concerned. Where things can get really out of hand is where the “support group,” starts to become quite large. They all want to come to watch court proceedings in the case. I do encourage clients to bring one support person to court with them. But it has to be someone that they trust to not react to what is being said in any way. Many times I have seen two pews of friends and family that gasp, or guffaw, at everything that is said by opposing counsel. Reacting to the point just short of doing the wave. That doesn’t help me or the client very much. There is also something else to be aware of and it is not well intentioned. Lots of times people are just bored and want to see a good scrap. Sometimes the situation is not unlike a bunch of school kids in a circle trying to egg a couple boys on to fight. Just for something interesting as a distraction from the boredom of daily life. I think this probably happens more often than one would think. All we would have to do is turn on any social media to see how quickly and earnestly some people can post things about someone else’s personal drama. I remember the advice I gave to a client once that was being goaded on by a “friend”. I asked the client if the friend was willing to pay their legal costs, pay counselling costs for the children, if the conflict adversely affected them. Will they be an intermediary for access pickup and drop off, after the client and their ex can no longer stand one another after the trial? Will they be responsible for whatever support order was granted? Accept the positive support for sure. But when it becomes more than that always keep in the back of your mind, where free legal advice is concerned, you usually get what you pay for…

Stenbeck Law Office (866)783-6232

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

WWW.CITYSIGNSANDCANVAS.CA

APEXLUXE Luxury Logistics, providing WORLDWIDE Jet Charter Services, Elite Concierge and Executive ground transportation. New York, Los Angeles, Miami

Our dedicated services will make your request a reality!!!

APEXLUXE Luxury

Logistics

Brad@apexluxe.com

+1-305-308-8770 (Brad) 24

J G ay

odfrey is one of the hottest up and coming designers in New York.

ay uses the finest of fabrics and vibrant colors to enhance the sensual characteristics of the women fortunate enough to own his designs.

His designs are for the most discriminating women looking to compete with the celebrities who wear his creations.

ay is Canadian born, but a New York resident.

He is thrilled to have dressed Eva Longoria, Emma Stone, Jennifer Lopez, and many others. Spotlight is working to get him to our next Fashion Show.

Photo Credit: Joan Bateman - Gainsboro Studio

Spotli g ht is Cutti n g Ed g e. T

he eclectic mix of editorial enhances our demographic. People read us because they love and appreciate our tell it like it is content. Medical, financial, political, high fashion, celebrity interviews, we cover it all. We are excited to unveil our next transformation. We are launching the magazine on the Samsung Smart TV platforms. Spotlight Magazine is going GLOBAL!!! Statistically over 35% of the homes in North America are able to receive and read our magazine via their television screens. The numbers in France, Britain, Europe, Russia, and Japan are more spectacular. Spotlight will be available in over 100,000,000 homes!!! This is not just the internet...we will be identified on the platform with icons such as Netflix and others. We will not be lost in cyber-space. In the coming years Smart TV will eclipse lap tops as the preferred method of surfing the net. Isn’t a 50 inch monitor better than a 17 inch screen? What this means for our advertisers is incredible! No other magazine can offer millions in distribution, world wide appeal, and affordability for emerging companies, as well as the giants. Millions of people are now surfing applications on their TV. Spotlight is one of the first general interest publications to appear in this exponentially growing market application. Spotlight is setting the bar all others will have to follow. YOU can be one of the first to set the trend, and most important, be noticed by millions. Leave your competition, mired in the mediocrity of traditional tired ideas. They’ll watch you, and have to catch up. Your business was successful because you were first and the best. Join Spotlight in this emerging technology. Because your customers are already there.

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

CHARL BROWN

SPOTLIGHT COVERS

The Tony Awards in

NEW YORK CITY page 22

spotlightmagazine.ca Cover photo Joan Bateman / Gainsboro Studio

What People Are Saying About Spotlight Magazine We’ve heard directly and indirectly from a growing chorus of our readers. Not only is Spotlight great for our business, it turns out our column is engaging and useful for others. Many new customers we previously had not met. We applaud Scott and his team for ongoing format improvements and increased distribution - great job! Shine on Spotlight!!! Dan Hein, BMO We love advertising in this magazine. We find it to be one of the This is the best advertising I’ve ever had. I most professional publications out there, the quality of the magazine from receive calls from all across the country! design, articles, advertisements, and the uniqueness of Spotlight itself; Scott Stenbeck, Lawyer makes it a keep sake. I’ve found this magazine has staying power, they are kept for long periods of time in waiting area’s in multiple businesses. This makes it great for advertisers, they are seen over and over. For the price you will not find a better publication out there. Thanks, Scott! Todd Boschee, Auto’s R Less Since becoming involved with Spotlight Magazine my business has changed dramatically. Space does not allow for the number of positive comments I could make. I highly recommend advertising in this publication. As a photographer, I have now done business in Las Vegas, New York, Los Angeles, and other exotic locations, specifically because of Spotlight. Joan Bateman, Gainsboro Studio www.gainsboro.ca

CROSSWORD

PUZZLE Down

1. Cuban currency 2. Asian river 3. Expert 4. Knowledge or understanding 5. Arithmetic operation 6. Let for money 7. Beginning 8. Healthy 9. Guide 10. Lament 11. Shelf 12. Father 14. Rolled up document 18. Not in favor 20. Triple world heavyweight champion, Muhammad __ 23. Make amends for 24. Lodges 27. Live in a tent 28. Sport played on horseback 30. All assets and liabilities

Across 1. Mountain top 5. In favor of 8. Combustible material 12. Two 13. Optical device 15. Small island 16. Colorado ski resort 17. Unharmed 19. First note of a major scale 20. Abaft

31. Constrictor 33. Friend 34. Excited 36. Emergency services professional 37. Affirm 38. Arm of the Indian Ocean, ___ Sea 41. Meat skewer 43. Abrasion 46. Every one 48. Country, initially 49. Fertile part of a desert 50. Unaccompanied 51. Musical instrument 53. Small hill 57. In addition 58. Far down 60. Net 61. Employ 63. High rocky hill 64. Grow older 65. Hard-shelled seed 21. Thin-shelled object 22. Method of transport 25. Sum up 26. Cereal grass 27. Felines are fond of this herb 29. Prevarication 31. State capital, ___ Rouge 32. Gemstone 35. Box 39. Portents 40. Fall behind 41. Musical notation

42. Part of a church 43. Song for one 44. Whittled 45. Part of a minute, in short 47. Stringed instrument 49. Lout 52. Biblical boat 54. Part of a plant 55. Everything 56. Country on the Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic 59. Australian flightless bird

62. Roald Amundsen got there first 64. South American mountain chain 66. Within 67. Additional 68. Pretext 69. Visionary 70. Sever 71. Engrave

Answers on page 18