OTTAWALIFE NEWS/POLITICS/FOOD/ARTS/SPORTS/FASHION/LIFESTYLE $4.95
FALL 2018
Andrew Scheer
Ready to Govern
Countdown to
UNIFOR’S
ULTIMATE
COMPLETE
pipelines and politics
GUIDE
CANNABIS
JERRY DIAS on
Gift-Giving
OTTAWALIFE.COM
Ottawa Skin Clinic * Lineage Art * FieldBird Cider Co * Verdun Windows
FALL 2018 VOLUME 20
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NUMBER 4
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In 2011, Andrew Scheer became the youngest person ever to be elected Speaker of the House of Commons. In 2017, he became the Conservative Party leader. Now, he is gearing up for the 2019 federal election. Ottawa Life spoke with Scheer about holding the Liberals accountable, eradicating the carbon tax and why he has what it takes to become Canada’s next Prime Minister.
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PHOTO: RYAN MONKMAN
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It’s coming . . . To help you get a head start on holiday shopping we gathered together a bevy of gift ideas.
Top Shelf
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With their high-quality spirits, competitive prices and down-to-earth operating style, Top Shelf Distillers is turning the spirit would upside down. Spirits aside, Top Shelf Distillers says connecting with the community and creating measurable change are at the forefront of their small town, large-scale operation.
Oh Cannabis
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Weed, indeed! Canada is now the second country in the world to legalize cannabis use. In this installment of our Oh Cannabis series, we take a look at the 21st century cannabis consumer, driving while high, Delta 9’s father-son duo and much more.
The dichotomy of safe injection sites
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Safe injections sites are legal, government-funded spaces to inject illegal drugs but is their existence a result of a lack of funding for much need programs for the most vulnerable people in society, or misguided social policy
Misogyny and the Regina Police
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A lot of attention has been placed on misconduct within the RCMP, yet little is being done to investigate the bullying, harassment and abuse that has occured in local forces including the Regina Police Service. For nearly two decades, former RPS members Heather Gray and Marv Taylor’s pleas for justice have fallen on deaf ears.
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Publisher’s message ...................................... 4 Verdun Windows and Doors .......................... 9 In search of style ........................................ 11 Savvy selections .......................................... 13 Profile: Top Shelf Distillers............................... 15 Gallery: Lineage Art ..................................... 16 Canada Croatia ......................................... 24 Op-ed: Arthur Kent .................................... 25 Profile: The Ottawa Skin Clinic ...................... 29 Travel: Mahekal Beach Resort ....................... 44 Montreal ......................................... 46 Homes: Concrete Fusion ............................ 52 Saint Paul University ..................................... 54
series
Pipelines, People & Progress .................... 26 Oh Cannabis ......................................... 30 Delta 9 ........................................... 32 Organigram .................................... 34 Hexo .............................................. 37 Opioid Epidemic .................................... 40 Canada/China Friendship ....................... 42 Pharmacare ......................................... 51 PHOTO: ANDRE GAGNE
PHOTO: SEAN SISK PHOTOGRAPHY
Holiday gift guide
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message by Dan Donovan
Justin Trudeau and the Peter Principle
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he former Stephen Harper government was very competent but lacked a soul. After nine years, Canadians tired of this prickliness and wanted change. Justin Trudeau was the change.The son of Pierre Elliott Trudeau, one of Canada’s most transformative prime ministers whose 1982 Charter of Rights and Freedoms impacted every aspect of our society; socially, legally and morally and is the underpinning for what is modern-day Canada. Millions of immigrants came to Canada during the PET era and millions of others grew up and supported him during his reign. Many Canadians felt obliged to support the son of the father since PET had done so much for so many. If Justin Trudeau’s last name was Smith or Gagne, he would have never been elected leader of the Liberal party. His privilege was his name, not his resume. When he ran for the Liberal leadership in 2012 there was no oxygen in the national media for anyone else but “Justin.” His smile and superficial statements easily beat highly qualified candidates who couldn’t get any ink, let alone votes. In the 2015 election, seasoned CBC and CTV national reporters and anchors embarrassingly swooned over Trudeau as he waxed poetic nothings about his interpretation of Canadian values. Trudeau’s promises that were embedded with his ah, ah, ah, ah,“thoughts of the day” seemingly culled from the texts of the Deep Thoughts by John Handy skits from Saturday Night Live. “Justin” promised disgruntled veterans that he would not fight them in court and would get them the pensions they deserved. When in power he did the opposite, doubling down on them in court. He got personally get involved in ensuring that, controversial “child soldier” and bomb-maker, Omar Khadr received a $10.5 million payout from taxpayers, apparently because his charter rights were violated. He smugly stated taxpayers could be on the hook for $40 million after a trial.What poppycock.Worse, he authorized the payment to be made in a way to circumvent a U.S. court order to seize any funds paid to Khadr, so they could be used for the victims of the Americans he and his father had killed. Months later, in a televised town hall meeting, Trudeau told a young Canadian veteran who had his legs blown off in Afghanistan who was pleading for help that he was: “Asking for more than we can give.” Yet, Trudeau used taxpayers funds for a family vacation to visit the Agha Khan (Resulting in him becoming the only PM in history found guilty of breaching the ethics act). Trudeau did not return the $225,000 in taxpayer money for the trip. He was fined a year later for accepting gifts without reporting them. Instead of funding a criminal investigation to find out what happened to over 300 murdered and missing Aboriginal women in Canada, Trudeau appointed a panel and gave it $54 million to set up hearings to listen to the stories of the families of the victims. The inquiry is a shame and a sham, and the missing women deserve better. His plan to address climate change is to bring in a carbon tax. He can’t even explain how this absurd tax will reduce pollution. On simpler things like ensuring the monster that assaulted and beat to death an 8-year-old girl stays in a federal prison, he becomes a rabid partisan instead of focusing on doing the right thing by the girl’s family. He supports the stupefying position of his Veterans Minister Seamus O’Regan to allow federal dollars under a veterans insurance plan to be used to cover the PTSD treatment costs for a convicted murderer who raped and dismembered a police woman in Halifax. The killer is not a veteran and never served a day in the military. Justin Trudeau is a walking definition of the Peter Principle. Worse, after only three years as PM, he has become breathtakingly sanctimonious and arrogant. If the opposition raise a legitimate point on immigration policy, they are racist; on gender policies, they are sexist; on criminal justice issues, they are ambulance chasers; and on the carbon tax, they are against a healthy environment. Justin Trudeau feels he is above answering questions about his actions. Privilege is like that. Well, at least we have pot n
CORRECTION: 1.The cover of the summer issue of Ottawa Life was shot at the beautiful Mizrahi presentation centre at 1451 Wellington in Ottawa. 2. On page 25, Milton Friesen (https://www.cardus.ca/who-we-are/our-team/mfriesen/) was wrongly credited as the author. 4 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
publisher/managing editor
Dan Donovan copy editor Dave Gross art director Karen Temple director of operations Maria Alejandra Gamboa web editor/features writer Tori McNeely cover
Sean Sisk Photography: siskphoto.ca Make up: CoreyJStone.com photographers Andre Gagne, Jackie Hall Photography, Ping Hu, Jeff McIntosh, Nicole Moncman, Stacey Newman, Loïc Romer, Sean Sisk Photography, Adam Scotti, Karen Temple video Brittany and Amanda van Frankfoort fashion editor Alexandra Gunn accounts Joe Colas C.G.A bookkeeper Joan Hamilton contributing writers Victoria Dekker, Anne Dion,
Dan Donovan, Alexandra Gunn, Jennifer Hartley, Daniel Hurtubise, Arthur Kent, Jonathan Marshall, Tori McNeely, Adam Miron, Keith Newman, Julie Paquette, Hilary Thomson, Debbie Trenholm, Julie White web contributors Anne-Marie Brugger, Anne Dion, Maria Alejandra Gamboa, Dave Gross, Andre Gagne, Jennifer Hartley, Don Maclean, Alex Mazur, Owen Maxwell, Isabel Payne, Mona Staples, Kat Walcott, Keith Whittier social media manager Kat Walcott social media Kat Walcott, Tori McNeely student intern Sophie O’Reilly, Chloé Statham corporate advisor J. Paul Harquail,
Charles Franklin corporate counsel Paul Champagne editor in memoriam Harvey F. Chartrand advertising information
For information on advertising rates, visit www.ottawalife.com call (613) 688-LIFE (5433) or e-mail info@ottawalife.com Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement #1199056. Ottawa Life Magazine, 301 Metcalfe St. Lower Level, Ottawa. Ontario K2P 1R9 tel: (613) 688-5433 fax: (613) 688 -1994 e-mail: info@ottawalife.com Web site: www.ottawalife.com Follow us on Twitter: @ottawalifers On Instagram: ottawalifemag Like us at www.Facebook.com/ OttawaLifeMagazine Ottawa Life is listed in Canadian Advertising Rates & Data (CARD). Ottawa Life subscription rates: one year $50.00, includes postage, plus HST (six issues). Two years $80.00, includes postage, plus HST (12 issues). Add $20 per year for postage outside Canada. Subscriber service is 613-688-LIFE (5433) Ottawa Life Magazine is printed in Canada on recycled paper.
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8 4 1 Amopé Pedi Perfect Gift Set
Give the gift of relaxation with Amopé’s Holiday Gift Set — the ultimate pedicure pack that includes Amopé’s Pedi Perfect Electronic Foot File with Diamond Crystals for added exfoliation, extra coarse roller head refills and a compact beauty bag. The Amopé Pedicure Gift Set includes everything needed for a purely blissful, at-home, professional-style experience. Specially priced for the holidays at only $39.97 - $44.99
amope.ca
2 Arca Nova Vinho Verde 2016
Pouring a very bright crystal with green highlights, this incredibly refreshing wine has aromas of grapefruit skin, tomato stem, and powdery minerals. The palate shows an invigorating, gentle spritz that further advances the quaffable character of the wine. This wine is fruity and fresh. $13.95 in store or at LCBO.com
3 Bacardi Anejo 4 Year Old
Inspired by Bacardi founder's original recipe, this versatile rum is great on its own or in mixed drinks. The blend creates a zesty entry on palate, leading to rounded flavors of dried fruit, caramel, toasty oak and cooking spice. $30.95 in store or at LCBO.com
4 CIBC Aventura Premium Credit Cards
CIBC is adding new travel benefits to its premium Aventura®cards at no additional cost to new and existing clients. Cardholders can look forward to a bundle of enhancements to help create meaningful travel experiences. Aventura premium cardholders will soon enjoy new features including access to 1,200+ airport lounges across the globe, hotel burglary insurance, mobile device insurance and much more. $120.00 annual fee Stop by a CIBC branch location
to learn more.
9 Fetch Striped Crossbody Bag 5 Danish Dough Whisks
Looking for a gift for the baker in your life? The flow-through design of this whisk allows for dough to mix faster, requires less force, combines ingredients more evenly, and doesn't overwork the dough in the process The secret to its effectiveness is that the hardened stainless-steel loops of different diameters are in three separate planes, one behind the other. $11.50 - $21.00 leevalley.com
6 Dermalogica Smooth Skin Favourites Holiday Kit
Super smooth skin starts here. This triple-threat set cleanses, exfoliates, and continuously hydrates – giving you glowing skin in a flash. It includes mid-travel sizes of: Special Cleansing Gel, Daily Microfoliant, Skin Smoothing Cream. $122.00 dermalogica.ca
7 Domaine les Ondines Passion Vacqueyras 2015
The terrific 2015 Vacqueyras Passion is a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah made and aged in concrete. A dusting of ground cinnamon and clove adds nuance to the ripe raspberry and stone fruit aromas in this full-bodied, richly textured wine. $39.95 in store or at LCBO.com
8 eBay Wood & Marble Cheese Board
Impress the cheese lover in your life with this sleek and stylish wood and marble cheese board, perfect for any holiday hosting needs. $86.00 eBay.ca
This must-have bag will complete your look whether you are going out for the evening or meeting a friend for coffee. Fetch bags are made in Canada and boast a modern and minimalist style inspired by geometric shapes and lines, made with vegan leathers, and paired with modern textiles. This bag is made of a striking combination of striped cotton and vegan leather. It's the perfect size for all of your essentials. $50.00 aylia.com
10 Green & Black’s
This holiday, treat your loved ones to the ultimate, decadent and mouth-watering gift: Green & Black’s premium chocolate. Made with hand-selected, ethically sourced cocoa beans, these organic chocolate bars will impress even the most sophisticated palate. From white chocolate with Madagascan vanilla to dark chocolate with 85% cocoa, there’s something for everyone on your list. $4.95 us.greenandblacks.com and select retailers
such as Whole Foods, Sobey’s, Metro, Loblaws and Shoppers Drug Mart.
11 Highlighting Stick - Icelandic Glow
This creamy and conditioning sticks illuminate the skin with easy, buildable coverage. Full of vitamin C & E and aloe, the highlighting stick helps protect cells from free radical damage and sooth and condition skin. $29.50 carylbakervisage.com
12 Huawei Mate20 Pro
HUAWEI P20 Pro is once again leading the way with the revolutionary Leica Triple Camera, where aesthetic vision meets an advanced camera system that shines a light on intelligent photography. Prices vary Available your preferred phone carrier 5 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
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19 13 Phone cases by Keyway Designs
Keyway was born out of passion for elegant design, skilled crafting, and artistic simplicity. When it comes to "Form vs Function", you can have both. Here are two of their most popular designs: The premium wood Rift iPhone case features a simple, elegant division of Walnut and Black Leather and the premium Wood Explore iPhone case features a mountain range and the word Explore using Maple and Wenge on a Walnut backing.
Prices vary keywaydesigns.com
14 K-Café™ Single Serve Coffee, Latte, & Cappuccino Maker
Enjoy the rich, full-flavored coffee you love or delicious coffeehouse beverages from the new Keurig® K-Café™. Whether brewing coffee, or making lattes, and cappuccinos, the K-CaféTM brewer works with any recyclable K-Cup® pod so the options are endless. Use the coffee SHOT to brew a concentrated shot of coffee and froth your choice of fresh milk to create a creamy latte or frothy cappuccino. You can even enjoy a wonderfully refreshing iced latter or cappuccino with the COLD setting to froth cold milk. $249.99 Keurig.ca and Canadian Tire
15 JACEK Chocolate Couture Box of Joy – Holiday Edition
This gorgeous collection includes a perfectly curated selection of fine, hand-crafted chocolates, artisan bars, like The Audrey (tart cherries & pistachio) or The Colette (marbled chocolate), and other delicious surprises you’ll enjoy gifting to your list this year! $54 - $130 jacekchocolate.com 6 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
16 Inniskillin & Jackson-Triggs Limited-Edition Holiday Gift Set
This year, Inniskillin and Jackson-Triggs provide a perfect holiday gift for entertaining or the wine lover in your life. The limited-edition holiday gift set includes a bottle of the new Inniskillin Cabernet Sauvignon Icewine and a bottle of sparkling, Jackson-Triggs Entourage Brut. The pair are perfect for festive gatherings and ringing in the New Year - in true Canadian fashion! $165.00 GreatEstatesNiagara.com
17 Loaker Chocolat treats
Take your palate on a journey to the heart of the Dolomites this holiday season with Loacker. Founded by Alfons Loacker in Bozen, Italy, Loacker products are still made following traditional Loacker family recipes; they are a marriage between the love for nature and enthusiasm for baking. Their premium line of wafers and biscuits are perfect for gifting to that special someone or keeping on-hand for holiday entertaining. $1 - $4.99 loacker.com, Loblaws, Fortinos,
Sobeys and Walmart
18 Lafage Tessellae 2017 Côtes Catalane
This fun, vibrant wine offers peach, apricot and nectarine flavours with the area's characteristic underlying herbal notes. $16.95 in store or at LCBO.com
19 Luigi’s Mansion
On October 12, Nintendo launched Luigi’s Mansion, a game that sees classic Nintendo character Luigi win a mansion in a contest he didn't enter. Beat many bosses and solve a handful of puzzles in this ultra fun, spooky adventure. $49.99 nintendo.com
20 M. Chapoutier Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem 2015 Côtes du Roussillon
Full-bodied, layered and beautiful textured, this extra dry red wine boasts killer notes of black raspberries, casis, pepper and licorice. It’s rich flavours and incredible value make it impossible to resist. $26.95 in store or at LCBO.com
21 Marquis d'Aqueria Tavel Rosé 2017
As part of the Vintages panel in April 2018, this Rosé contains fruit flavours and great structure. Long and textured, you’ll taste strawberry, blood orange, red cherry and more! $19.95 in store or at LCBO.com
22 Mia & Luca Fashion Backpack
With this Mia & Luca fashion leather backpack, being organized and classy at the same time is as easy as 1, 2, 3. This backpack is trendy and is equipped with several zippered compartments, a convenient handle and adjustable shoulder straps. $59.99 in stores or at shopbentley.com
23 Oil Infusion- Facial Cleanser
Melt away makeup and remove impurities without stripping your skin’s natural moisture, with this unique cleansing oil. The transforming formula helps to effectively maintain a balanced, hydrated and smoothed complexion. $40.00 carylbakervisage.com
24 Product: New Nintendo 2DS™ XL w/ Mario Kart 7
Perfect for kids, this new system comes in a streamlined, affordable package — and plays a huge library of games in 2D. The system even comes with the popular Mario Kart 7 game already pre-installed! This is the perfect gift for gamers of all ages! $199.99 nintendo.com
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27 28 25 Oil Infusion – Facial Oil
Add an extra layer of luscious moisture to dry, dull skin with this nurturing hydrator infused with Jojoba, Calendula, Rosemary and Jasmine Oils. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, to leave skin glowing—never greasy. $50.00 carylbakervisage.com
26 Peloton
This high-tech indoor bike is revolutionizing at-home fitness! Peloton uses technology and design to connect the world through fitness, empowering people to be the best version of themselves anywhere, anytime, while allowing their community to feel the rush and competitive nature of a studio. They’ve created an entirely new category of fitness by bringing live and on-demand boutique studio classes to the convenience and comfort of your own home. $2625 for the Bike; $49/month for the digital subscription
OnePeloton.com
27 Olives from Spain
Moments with family or friends are precious. Get inspired during this upcoming Holiday season to treat yourself and your loved ones to *new* classics. Prepare for the upcoming festivities and create new memories with these revamped Olive from Spain recipes! Prices Vary olivesfromspain.ca
28 Phillips Airfryer XXL
When it comes to frying food at home, we all love the crispy flavor – but not the extra fat! Philips Airfryer XXL uses powerful hot air to fry your favorite food with a tablespoon or less of oil. The result is delicious and healthier fried food that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. $369.99 thebay.com
32 29 Phillips Coffee 3100 (EP3360/14)
Get your perfect espresso and cappuccino from fresh beans thanks to the 100% ceramic grinders and select strength, temperature and length via the intuitive display. Your hot cappuccino is a one-touch job, thanks to the integrated milk jug. Enjoy five different beverages right at your fingertips. $999.99 thebay.com
30 Phillips OneBlade Face + Body
Philips OneBlade Face + Body trims, edges and shaves any length of hair. It’s got unique OneBlade technology, dual protection system and long lasting battery power. Forget about using multiple tools, OneBlade does it all. $64.99 bestbuy.ca
31 Phillips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart
The DiamondClean Smart is the best toothbrush, for complete care. Four high-performance brush heads let you focus on all areas of your oral health, and its Smart Sensor technology gives you personalized feedback and coaching. $249.99 bestbuy.ca
32 Premium Leathercraft Multi-Purpose case Kit
The kit lets you make a practical, versatile holder for carrying anything from glasses to art supplies. The kit includes pre-cut leather pieces with punched stitch holes, as well as two needles, waxed thread, a 17” leather cord used to bind the case closed, and detailed instructions. Easy to work with, it wears well and ages to a rich.
$20.95 leevalley.com
33 Second Cup Hot Chocolate
A perfect stocking stuffer, teacher or hostess gift — Second Cup's signature hot chocolate is available for Holiday 2018 in two delicious flavours: Classic Hot Chocolate and the limited edition Candy Cane White Chocolate. Second Cup’s hot chocolate is also a part of their Clean Label lineup, which means it has no artificial colours and flavours, preservatives or high fructose corn syrup. $9.95 in store or at secondcup.com
34 Somneo Sleep and Wake-up light
The Sleep and Wake-Up Light is designed to help you relax and wake up refreshed. With light-guided breathing and personalized sun settings, it helps simulate a natural sunrise to wake up refreshed and go to sleep relaxed. $219.99 amazon.ca
35 Smashbox Photo Finish: The Original Smooth + Blur Primer
This makeup artist must-have blend of vitamins A and E, grape seed extract and green tea instantly blurs fine lines and pores, leaving your skin with a velvety-smooth, even finish. This #1-selling product is lightweight and oil- free to glide over clean, moisturized skin to prep and protect against environmental stressors, making sure you have the best start to your makeup routine every day. $44.00 smashbox.ca, sephora.ca, Shoppers Drug
Mart, beautyboutique.ca
36 Suntory Whiskey Toki
Toki is a blended whisky from Suntory's three distilleries: Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita. This is a round and sweet blend with a refreshing citrus character and a spicy finish. $59.95 in store or at LCBO.com 7 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
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40 37 Grey Goose Vodka
The perfect cocktail begins with the extraordinary character of Grey Goose, the World’s Best Tasting Vodka. Whether enjoyed by itself or mixed with fresh ingredients, it is the perfect gift to elevate any holiday gathering. $49.95 in store or at the LCBO.com
38 The Walking Dinosaur Kit
This kit feature accurately cut, clear plywood that is free of splinters and requires almost no edge sanding. Each model comes in its own box with sandpaper and an assembly diagram. Whether you give them as gifts or just buy them to amuse visiting children, you will be popular either way. $17.50 leevalley.com
39 Tree Leather Tote Bags
Made from “Tree Leather, this everyday tote is known for its outstanding durability and ability to withstand wear and tear. The industrial-grade, FSC-certified kraft paper is made from pulp that is processed in a way that leaves the long fibers unbroken, taking advantage of their natural strength and resilience. And of course, because it's paper, you can easily personalize them with paints, markers or other decorative touches which is what makes them an excellent gift! $12.50 - $16.50 leevalley.com
40 Unisex Duckie Puffer Jacket
Made from Duckie, inspired by a traditional raincoat fabric, this cold weather essential puffer zip up jacket features a medium fill, two large velcro pockets on the front and two side slant pockets. $124 americanapparel.com 8 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
This year, give the gift of beauty with the Veet Sensitive Precision™ Beauty Styler Expert — the #1 women's electric trimmer in Canada*. The ideal "girlie gadget" for the fashionista on your list, the Veet Sensitive Precision™ Beauty Styler Expert offers incredible gentleness for great results on face/eyebrows, bikini and underarms. $29.69 veet.ca
42 Volumizing Lip Gloss - Lingongberry
This balmy, ultra-hydrating gloss adds volume with sheer colour and high-shine. It’s luscious cardamom and nutmeg-flavored formula works from the inside out, helping diminish the appearance of vertical lines and creases-regenerate and re-volumizing the lips. $24.00 carylbakervisage.com
43 Copper Monogram Bottle Stopper
The adorable copper letter gleams atop a polished steel stopper that adds a personal touch while keeping wine drinkable. It’s the perfect addition when presenting a friend or family member with a bottle of wine this holiday season. $25.00 in store or at shop.nordstrom.com
44 UA Breathelux Jacquard Crop & Sports Bra
The high-waisted capris are constructed of the silkiest, smoothest fabric that wicks away sweat. In addition, they are structured and designed to stretch 4-ways to help you move in every direction and never look too tight for a locked-in feel. The sports bra has the classic racer back design and fully-bonded, chafe-free seems. $140.00 capris/$75 bra in store or at underarmour.ca
45 Athlete Recovery Sleepwear™
The loose-fitting advanced sleepwear is designed with an über high-tec pattern on the inside that returns infrared energy to your body. Athlete Recovery Sleepwear™ helps you recover faster, get more zzz’s and wake up ready to do it all again. Shirt and pants are sold separately. $80.00 CDN each in store or at underarmour.ca
48 49 46 BPurdys Chocoates
From stocking suffers to hostess gifts, Purdys Chocolats have gifts boxes for everyone on your list. Picture here is the Milk and Dark Classics Box — 49 pieces of chocolates crafted with premium quality crafted, and 100% sustainable cocoa in a beautifully embossed fift ox.
$55 in store or at Purdys.com
47 AdvoCare Sports Performance Products
AdvoCare’s best selling nutritional and weight management products are now available in Canada. They are backed by science and relied up by well-known professional athletes, including Ottawa’s own Redblacks quaterback, Trevor Harris.
Prices vary advocare.com
48 Keurig® K-Mini Plus™ coffee maker
The new Keurig® K-Mini PlusTM single serve coffee maker features a new sleek design, and at less than 13 cm (5 in) wide is the perfect size for any space or occasion. The K-Mini PlusTM brewer is effortlessly simple to use – just add fresh water to the removable reservoir, pop in your favorite recyclable K-Cup® pod, press the brew button and enjoy fresh brewed, delicious coffee in minutes. $99.00 Available at Keurig.ca or exclusively at
Canadian Tire
49 Domaine des Carabiniers Côtes du Rhône 2016
This 2017 Decanter World Wine Award winner features notes of fresh blueberries and blackberries with a lovely smooth mouthfeel and elegant tannins. $20.95 in store or at the LCBO.com
Read For The Cure
capital clips
A Drive to Compete
"On October 9th, book lovers and best-selling authors came together at the Mariott Hotel for a charitable evening in support of the Cancer Research Society. Presented by Penguin Random House Canada, Read for the Cure has hosted events in various cities across Canada and has helped raise over 1.35 million dollars for cancer research. This year, guests had the chance to hear from three renowned Canadian author including Claire Cameron, Linda Spalding, and the 2017 Giller-prize winner Michael Redhill. All proceeds from ticket sales went to funding Canada’s most promising cancer researchers.
In addition to their ongoing support of Special Olympics Canada, Kia Canada recently launched the Kia Canada Speical Olympics Mobility Program. The reality is that often times, Special Olympic athletes and their families miss out on valuable programming because they don't have access to reliabel transportation to and from training, competitions and events. This first-of-its-kind national transportation-based program will help alleviate sush challenges. Learn more at specialolympics.ca
A clear view of the future with Verdun Windows and Doors erdun Windows and Doors is premium price and because they are V the largest and fastest growing inherently stronger than traditional replacement window and door PVC windows they require less material company in Canada.
One of the secrets to their success is their RevoCell windows, a visionary new product that has taken the industry by storm. RevoCell uses a material called microcellular polyvinyl chloride (mPVC) to create a window that is stronger, more energy efficient and more aesthetically pleasing than any product available in the market. Most windows manufactured in Canada are made of vinyl (also known as PVC) while some specialty windows are made of aluminum (for commercial applications) or wood (for higher-end custom applications). The challenge with PVC windows is that while they are cheaper to produce and maintain, they don’t have the same structural strength as wood or aluminum windows. Verdun spent ten years on R&D and testing in order to manufacture a frame that is lightweight, tough against degradation, super strong and very affordable. RevoCell windows are a premium window being sold at a non-
in the frame – which means more glass and more light in your home.
Marketing Director Jimm Fox is very excited about this new technology and believes that it will become the industry standard.
does both, meaning they can “cut out the middleman” when it comes to sales, administration and installation.
“We are first to market, at scale, with this new window technology and it has become the highest rated product for energy efficiency in its class,” he said. “Much like the structure of bone, the mPVC material is lightweight and porous but it is still very, very strong.”
Service is also a key value to the company, choosing to work with only highly trained professionals, and offering lucrative warranties that cover not only the product, but the installation, and the lifetime use of the window.
The focus on research has undoubtedly paid off for Verdun. The Window & Door Industry is divided into two basic functional groups: A small number of window manufactures and a very large number of retailers that sell and install window and doors. Verdun
Fox explains that they have tailored their service teams into a well-refined system of installation experts. Verdun operates 27 separate crews in Ottawa alone, each with a team lead and helpers. “It doesn’t matter if you have the best window on the market, the quality of the installation is just as important to the longevity of your windows and doors.” n verdunwindows.com 9 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
KARIM RASHID: CULTURAL SHAPING OCTOBER 11, 2018 – FEBRUARY 10, 2019 Ottawa Art Gallery presents the first large-scale Canadian exhibition of the iconic designer’s work. oaggao.ca
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in search of style by Alexandra Gunn Follow Alex on Twitter: @AlexandraGunn
p Tory Burch Chelsea Genuine Leather Shoulder Bag
A.L.C. Vernay Blazer u
FUCHSIA
…THE
COLOUR OF FALL 2018
With undertones of blue, fuchsia is a vivid reddish purple that straddles the line between purple and pink. The striking hue is a feminine, fashion-forward and it’s giving red a run for its money as the sexiest colour to wear. It’s standing out as the top colour of the season with both high-end designers and fast-fashion retailers who are going all out with this statement shade. For a standout look wear it from head-to-toe or pop-it with a purse, a bright pair of heels, or a fuchsia separate with a navy or black outfit.
p Grey Jason Wu Fritz Sweater • Nordstrom
Tory Burch Runway
t SWAROVSKI Bella Fuchsia Crystal Drop Earrings $79.00 • The Bay
Alexander Wang Runway
AdamSelman Runway
Ulla Johnson Runway
p Canada Goose Approach Jacket in Summit Pink $795
ALEX’S FAVS
There’s something about the crisp fall season that inspires me to not only switch up my wardrobe but to also revamp my day-to-day routine. Updating my personal fragrance is one of my favourite ways to celebrate the changing seasons. While you're at it, change the scent of your home with scented candles. Then, switch up meals with a new recipe or two. Right now, I’m pouring over On Boards for for effortless entertaining and Smitten Kitchen Every Day for new family-style meals.
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Jo Malone Earl Grey & Cucumber Cologne
Ginger Pumpkin Spice candle $19.50 Indigo
$25 Chapters/ Indigo
$40 Chapters/ Indigo
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t Micheal Korrs Large Snakeskin Tote $578.99
t Marshalls Leopard Print Coat $79.99
ANIMALINSTINCT p Aldo Neverland Bag $50.99
t Marshalls Leopard Print Tote $179.99
Diane Von Furstenberg
Who doesn’t love leopard print? The bold and primal pattern has been a fashion favourite for decades and the fall/winter runways saw the revival of the classic print in eye-catching designs, cut in every silhouette. The popular print has been given another shot at the big time making it a must-have classic staple for this season’s wardrobe, regardless of age. And, don't just stop at leopard print.The runways included tiger print, zebra print and snake skin in their designs. Spotted at Tom Ford, Victoria Beckham and Calvin Klein, the ‘neutral’ designs will demand attention and harmonize with the rest of your wardrobe. Go on, take a walk on the wild side. S T Y L E G U I D E L I N E S F O R L E O PA R D P R I N T
1
LESS IS MORE. Avoid looking like a fashion victim by sticking with one piece a time: a coat, a pencil skirt, or a purse.
q Winners Leopard Print
Pump $99.99
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2
WEAR ONE PRINT AT A TIME. If not done properly, mixing animal prints will look messy not modern
3
DON’T OVER-ACCESSORIZE. Animal prints are decorative on their own. Leave the accessories for other outfits that require added glam
savvy selections by Debbie Trenholm
The making of a cidermaker
ave you heard of Apple Falls, H County Cider, West Avenue, Farmgate, King’s Mill or FieldBird? Mark my words, you will soon recognize these craft ciders as the cider industry in Ontario is soaring – like a rocket. “People in the craft cider business are fantastic,” said Ryan Monkman owner and cidermaker of FieldBird Cider Co. “I wanted to do whatever it took to be part of it. I want to make amazing cider and hangout with these dynamic people.” Ryan started FieldBird Cider this past spring and there is already an incredible buzz — dare I say cult following — around this new-still cider made with hard-to-find Ontario-grown heritage apples. During our interview — in a pickup truck driving along the back roads of Prince Edward County — Ryan explained that it has been a rollercoaster ride for him and his wife/business partner Nicole. Ryan has rural roots, born and raised in Carp and Kanata (with a short stint in England). Nicole is from the wild west. She grew up in Calgary. They met at Queen’s University. Nicole is the head of the farm, endlessly researching and planning a biodynamic
farm primarily consisting of apples and pears orchards, herbs along with sheep and bees. She is also involved in the cidery, designing the branding, labeling, planning while keeping their toddler out of mischief and getting ready for a baby girl to arrive in a few months. Ryan caught the wine bug while making Brew-Your-Own. His first cider experiment resulted as he described as, “the most disgusting cider ever.” Never giving up, he enrolled at the Niagara College Teaching Winery where he immersed himself in the program. “I went to school more than full time. I took a wide variety of winemaking courses, did research on everything, and soaked up any opportunity to learn about the business.” His charismatic nature led him to meet people in the industry who helped him become a ‘Craft Cidermaker to Watch’ (that’s my prediction). I asked Ryan who inspired him. His humble words resonate the authenticity that attracts people to Ryan, who naturally want his virtual cidery and newly-planted farm to grow. Here’s what he said about his
major influences. (Brian Hamilton: Biodynamic focused winemaker at Niagara’s Southbrook Vineyards and recently moved to Ottawa to be winemaker at KIN Vineyards in Ottawa Valley) “I had to write an essay four years ago and I picked Biodynamics as my topic. Biodynamics is a form of organic agriculture that incorporates spiritual practices. I wanted to see if there were scientific basis or if it was just another church with a different name. When touring Southbrook Vineyards, a Biodynamic farm, I asked to meet with Brian. He was pulling away in his car and I flagged him down. “Come by on Thursday. You can help me and I’ll answer any questions you’ve got.” Brian led me to a dim lit shed at the edge of the field. Imagine something from a horror film; a heap of cow horns waited for us with several buckets. Most of the buckets were brimmed with fresh manure. Two were empty. “Grab one” Brian said. I sat on an inverted bucket. I grabbed a cow horn and filled it with manure.We talked about farming for a few minutes. I asked what the horn manure was for. And I asked about companion plants. Our conversation drifted around — friendships are formed in those unplanned moments. 13 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
Brian converted me. I left that shed a believer in Biodynamics. It wasn’t because I learnt anything, although I did, it was because I discovered the generosity, openness and vulnerability of Brian. I admire him so much. Biodynamics has played a role in making him the farmer he is and I knew I wanted in.” (Derek Barnett: Renowned winemaker in Niagara whose career includes Southbrook Vineyards, Lailey Vineyard and now his own virtual winery, Meldville Wines) “Today started at 4 am. It’s my first major pressing day of Vintage 2018. I know that I’m going to be working late and probably won’t see my family. On days like these, I live by what Derek told me. “During harvest, make sure to have dinner with your family.” It was a tradition he started with his own family back when he farmed corn. His wife would bring their children for a picnic with Dad. After dinner, Derek would give his kids a ride on the combine. For most of harvest season, it was the only time they had together. What sets Derek apart is the depth of his affection for the people surrounding him. He’s forgiving, supportive and encouraging. He's more interested in having a robust Canadian wine industry than winning awards for his wines. Three years ago, I met Derek.Two years ago, we made wine together at Karlo Estates. Now we’re friends. Derek’s the guy who answers my panicked phone calls when running my virtual cidery becomes overwhelming. He helped me refocus my life; that family is more important than wine.” (Gavin Robertson: Winemaker and professor at Niagara College Teaching Winery) “I thought I wanted to lead wine tours. When we moved to Niagara, I began taking courses in wine appreciation. To complete the program, it was required to take one production course. Gavin taught that course. In his first lecture – before we even stepped into the winery – Gavin gave 14 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
RYAN IS NOT DAPPLING WITH APPLES, HE HAS EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE. HE CONSULTS FOR FIVE OTHER NEW CRAFT CIDERIES IN ONTARIO.
us a rundown of each winemaking step. There’s something called malolactic fermentation. It’s done on some white and almost all red wines. It’s a secondary type of fermentation that happens when wine ages.Tiny bacteria convert malic acid into lactic acid. It softens the wine and adds a wonderful creamy texture. “An interesting thing is that the bacteria don’t produce any heat” Gavin explained, “they don’t use the process for energy; they do it to make the wine a better place to live”. That got me hooked. I wanted to know who these bacteria were and why they seemed so personable. Mostly, I wanted to hang around someone like Gavin; someone who saw winemaking as something alive. Gavin instilled in me that the goal of a good winemaker is to reveal what the fruit has already decided it wants to be. It’s just the beginning.” Ryan has only just started making FieldBird Ciders. Each batch gets more interesting.
Different flavour profiles, blends and various apple varieties involved. Ryan is not dappling with apples, he has extensive experience. He consults for five other new craft cideries in Ontario and helps with the winemaking at three soon-to-open boutique wineries. If you’re keen to meet Ryan, you won’t find FieldBird listed on the Prince Edward County map. It is a virtual cidery, meaning that it does not have building with a sign out front. Rather, Ryan and Nicole share equipment and cellar space at KeintHe Winery and Vineyard. This communal approach ensures that FieldBird has the capacity to grow its business organically while establishing its biodynamic farm. FieldBird Ciders are only available to purchase at Keint-He . . . and if you visit during lunch or dinner time, you just might find Nicole and Linden having a picnic with dad n Follow the FieldBird Cider story on Instagram @fieldbird.cider Keint-He Winery. 49 Hubbs Creek Road, Wellington (Prince Edward County) www. keint-he.ca. Debbie Trenholm is a sommelier and the founder of Savvy Company. PHOTOS: NICOLE MONKMAN
profile by Tori McNeely
t Mixologist Jesse Baillie q Petr talks grain with Andy Hawkey (right).
Turning the spirits world upside down ince its first spirits run in 2015,Top S Shelf Distillers continues to rebel against the generic distillery mould. With its high-quality spirits, competitive prices and down-to-earth operating style, Top Shelf Distillers is turning the spirit world upside down — just like its bottom-up label.
All Top Shelf products — including gin, vodka, moonshine and bitters — have been flying off shelves in-house and in liquor stores across the province.
Lanark County native and former member of Team Canada’s roller derby team, Hanna Murphy, founded Perth’s first fully functioning distillery nearly 100 years after spirits were last legally produced in the town.
Ontario, Top Shelf Distillers uses high-
With the help of co-founder, social entrepreneur and avid vodka enthusiast, John Criswick, Murphy transformed what was once an empty plot of land into today’s awardwinning distillery. “The town of Perth was very supportive of the opening of the distillery. We were fortunate to be able to open in the same time frame as the bicentennial celebrations of the town. It’s a beautiful town with a lot of rich culture. It’s a special place,” said Sara Ainslie, Community Partnership Director and Events Coordinator for Top Shelf Distillers. The company is behind the revival of the centuries-old tradition of alcohol production in Perth. During the 1800s, the town was home to three thriving distilleries. The liquor was shipped all over the country, as well as to parts of the United States. No amount of demand has prevented Top Shelf Distillers from producing spirits without compromise.
Located in the agricultural belt of quality, Ontario-sourced ingredients including organic corn and barley.
“Everything we do, we make sure it is with the same mentality as batch one,” said Stuart Thornley, the company’s media relations head. In addition to producing a ‘top shelf ’ quality spirits at a competitive price, the company is always seeking new ways to decrease the environmental impact. “We have gone to great lengths to create measurable change within real communities. We really want to have initiatives for effecting change whether it be as simple as our pollinator garden in front of the distillery to bring attention to bees nearing extinction or spending money on a bottle washing machine, so we can have a bottle return program,” said Thornley. Having partnered with local events such as TD Ottawa Jazz Festival and Glowfair, Top Shelf Distillery has focused
PHOTOS: COURTESY TOP SHELF DISTILLERS
on investing in marketing efforts that support community relationships and bolster their brand simultaneously. One way the organization achieves this goal is by acting as a catalyst for events. “It has always been about embracing and connecting with the community first and foremost. Whether it’s 40 people or 4,000 people, for me they’re all just as important,” said Ainslie. “The majority of the work I do is creating a partnership rather than a sponsorship between Top Shelf and event organizers.” Thornley added that Top Shelf Distillers has no intentions of slowing down anytime soon. “The larger companies really want the independent, smaller producers to squabble over a small piece of the pie. The company’s vision is to unify distillers based on overlap in products we make and then grow our piece of the pie to combat bigger brands.” For those wondering what’s next, Top Shelf plans on putting Perth back on the map as a whisky town by releasing its first batch of traditional, Canadian whiskey in January of next year. Bottoms up n topshelfdistillers.com 15 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
gallery by Anne Dion
CarvinG sPace ON THE
human landscape
Gone are the days of the traditional stuffy art scene. Indigenous and ethnic-minority
p Suny Jacob at Lineage Art on Bank Street
art is making its presence known across the art and fashion world, and in a big way. Art can be a powerful medium to bring people together, to share deeper messages about culture and, in many ways, transform people’s lives.
One woman is changing the way we look at Indigenous and ethnicminority art through a new and innovative space. Lineage Arts opened its doors on Bank Street this past spring. A dream brought to life by owner Suny Jacob, the gallery displays art from Indigenous and ethnic-minority artists around the world. An open space with big windows and breathtaking art pieces, it is quiet, comfortable, and a haven from the busy downtown streets.
are marginalized, like she once was, pushed her to make the move. In Nunavut, she established a strong network with local Inuit artists. The gallery displays multiple artists from the community. “When you curate many different pieces, you see different representations of what Inuit art is,” explained Suny. Throughout the year, the gallery plans to rotate through its collection to display art from other groups across the world.
With a long and impressive career in advocacy, Suny spent close to a decade in Nunavut empowering women and children who have experienced various forms of violence. When asked about her decision to move to Nunavut, Suny said her passion to support people who Detail section of Moose Antler carved by Samuel Cote, $33,000 u 16 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
One of the challenges the gallery faces is providing artists with the support they need to manage what are often difficult personal circumstances. The two components of the gallery, business and advocacy, are two mindsets that are not always easy to inhabit simultaneously. “We provide artists with certain things they really need in order to make art, but they need more than just materials,” said Suny. “There are more personal issues in their lives than most people see from the outside. As a business we need to find ways to support these artists to get their career moving forward. This personal level, for us, is advocacy — how can we support them to improve their livelihoods?” When artists come by the gallery, Suny puts her trust in their skill and provides them with the material they need to create art. From a business perspective, she recognizes the risk she’s taking by having faith in people. So far, her faith has been rewarded and the gallery is proving to be a productive space.
t Polar Bear with Seal carved by Lew Phillip, Marble $6,500.
Lineage Arts is about heritage. As Suny explained, the very concept is rooted in the idea that “if you’re an artist and you’ve got a story that you can channel into your art then you’ve got a space here.”
q Works available for sale at Lineage Art
The gallery has a generous definition of art. “You’ll see pieces here that are jewelry, and that can be very controversial for some people — there seems to be this disagreement between people in fashion and art — is fashion art?” For Suny, the two are not mutually exclusive. She recounted the story of a woman from the Algonquin nation with a pair of beautiful earrings. Made from birch bark, the earrings were so delicate and perfect they almost look polished. The artist described birch bark as a powerful medicine and historical tool that cured the white man’s scurvy upon his arrival on North American shores. She took material that has great significance to her life and she made it into what she perceives to be art. This is where art comes from. “Many art galleries put pictures and sculptures up and leave it at that. But if someone comes to us with something like this which is important to them, I value those pieces.” In describing her reasons for opening the gallery in Ottawa, Suny said “most of the time Ottawa was my gateway to get to and from Iqaluit. We also have a huge Inuit population here. I worked with many families during the last nine years and I’ve seen many of them, all coming from very talented families, in need of support, coming here to Ottawa. A lot of them struggle with mental health and addictions. And so, due to many of their personal circumstances they end up on the street. Since this is our capital, it’s an ideal place to encourage a discussion about these topics.” Recognizing how an artist’s personal life impacts their art is crucial to working with and accommodating PHOTOS: KAREN TEMPLE
an artist. “It’s tough to continue your trade if you struggle with substance abuse or homelessness. Many people think ‘they have homeless shelters,’ but no — homeless shelters are very rarely suitable healing environments.We need to figure out how best we can support them.” “Many of the artists we’re working with are facing these huge challenges, which means that we are too.” Within a few weeks of opening its doors, the gallery held a workshop to teach participants how to make sealskin flowers. If you’re looking to get involved, to support individuals and cultural traditions from Indigenous and minority groups, then check out the workshops Lineage Arts hosts. Suny made sure to emphasize the gallery is always looking for people to lead workshops, no experience needed. Just an idea!
She also believes these workshops are a great learning opportunity for people across cultures. Art is a valuable tool for learning about cultures and people. “There are so many stereotypes about each culture; if you don’t like the way your culture is being presented to the public, then feel free to use this space as a platform to change that perception.” The backbone of Lineage Arts is made up of history, culture and memory. When people become a ‘minority,’ whether through immigration, oppression, or historical neglect, must they lose their heritage? Must new generations forget the past and how do they move forward? This artistic space is patiently asking these questions, and slowly but surely making its mark on Canada’s human landscape n lineagearts.ca 17 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
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cover by Dan Donovan
Andrew Scheer : the man who could be prime minister “The true guide of life is to do what is right.”— WINSTON CHURCHILL t's a sunny, colourful fall Friday IStornoway afternoon and I had just arrived at to interview Andrew Scheer, the leader of the official opposition and leader of the Conservative Party of Canada.
I laughed to myself as I entered the house. It reminded me a bit of the opening scene in Home Alone. Four of the Scheer children, Henry, Grace, Madeline and Mary were running about, as young children do.
Chaos and calm are the norm for the spouse of the guy who, a year from now, could be Canada’s prime minister. Jill told us to make ourselves comfortable, “Andrew is on his way.” Outside in the yard, the girls were playing with Raymore or ‘Ray’ the new puppy. The oldest child Thomas, who is 13, stepped out the side door and said hello. I told him we wanted to get Ray in the
A little girl in a polka-dot dress and rubber boots walked out and stared up at me.
PHOTOS: SEAN SISK PHOTOGRAPHY
Andrew Scheer arrived. He is tall, well dressed, intelligent, disarming and polite. We chatted briefly on the driveway about kids, family, and sports and of course the Scheer's new puppy. Scheer seemed preoccupied. He had been hammering away at the Liberals again in question period that day (and for much of the week) over the high-profile Tori Stafford murder and the transfer of Terri-Lynne McClintic from the Grand Valley Institution for Women near Kitchener, to the Okimaw Ochi Healing Lodge for Aboriginal Women in southern Saskatchewan.
I said: “Hello what’s your name?” “Mary,” she replied. I said, “Nice to meet you Mary, how old are you?” She frowned at me and said before running off, “18.” I laughed again — She’s really three. Just then Jill Scheer came to the foyer and said, “Hello, come on in — the kids are just playing” . . . No pretense.
shot and he laughed. “He’s pretty active and then he just crashes so maybe he’ll stay still for you.”
The Scheer family: (FROM LEFT) Thomas, Henry, Mary, Jill, Madeline, Grace and Andrew.
He was pleading with Prime Minister Trudeau to reverse the decision out of respect for the murdered child and her family. Tori Stafford was lured from 19 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
her school in 2009 by McClintic and Michael Rafferty and taken to a field where she was raped then brutally beaten to death with a hammer. McClintic and Rafferty were both convicted and sentenced to life in prison. For reasons unexplained, the Trudeau government approved the transfer of McClintic to the healing lodge without telling anyone, including the family. Relatives of Stafford are outraged by the transfer and her father told CTV News that: “The issue is about morals, not politics but if raising the issue in Parliament is what it takes for the transfer to be reversed, he’s OK with it.
against. Justin Trudeau called the Tories “ambulance-chasing politicians”during an exchange in the Commons. He told reporters that it’s “unfortunate that the House has gotten to a place where there is such use of terrible tragedies for political gain. Trudeau's comments left many aghast. Tori Stafford's father wrote an open letter to Trudeau on his Facebook page, said he would want to talk to the prime minister “parent to parent.”) Andrew Scheer has been leader of the Conservatives since May 27, 2017. Scheer grew up in Ottawa and graduated from Immaculata High School before studying history at the University of Ottawa.
“I don’t believe this should be one of our major political issues. This comes down to morals,” said Rodney Stafford.
He moved to Regina after meeting his future wife Jill Ryan at university and would finish his BA at the University of Regina. He married Jill and began work as an insurance broker. Being Speaker gave him (Scheer) The children came along as the couple a front row seat to ongoing battles built a life in Saskatchewan.
between the Harper Conservative governments, the Mulcair-led NDP and the Trudeau Liberals. I raised the issue with Scheer and it was clear that it was weighing heavy on him. “This is about right and wrong. This is really wrong, and anyone should be able to see that. This is horrible for the family, for justice and for victims. I can’t believe they are doubling down on this decision.” Scheer’s clarity on the matter was firm. “There is no way that any competent person at Corrections Canada would do this — whoever made that decision was wrong and it should just be reversed.” (The Conservatives forced the Liberals to vote on a motion in the House calling on the government to condemn the McClintic transfer and reverse it. The motion was mainly supported by Conservative MPs, with the government and NDP caucuses voting 20 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
Then politics came calling.
In 2004, at the age of 25, Scheer was elected Conservative Member of Parliament for Regina—Qu’Appelle, defeating NDP MP Lorne Nystrom, the longestserving MP at the time. He went on to win re-election in 2006, 2008, 2011 and 2015. After the 2011 election, Scheer was elected Speaker of the House of Commons — the youngest person ever to take up that position. By all accounts he was a well-liked and successful Speaker who judiciously navigated the rancorous House of Commons proceedings during the Harper era. He kept everyone in line and civil. More importantly, being Speaker gave him a front row seat to ongoing battles between the Harper Conservative governments, the Mulcair-led NDP and the Trudeau Liberals. After the
2015 election, Scheer served as Official Opposition House Leader under Interim House Leader Rona Ambrose before jumping into the Conservative leadership race, in 2017. His campaign was disciplined and focused. His platform was based on keeping taxes down for hard-working families, controlling government spending and having economic plan that creates prosperity and opportunity for everyone. Scheer was underestimated by many in the party who thought that the former Speaker wasn’t ready for the big time. At one point, the race had 17 candidates including businessman and broadcaster Kevin O’Leary,former Harper ministers Lisa Raitt, Maxime Bernier and Tony Clement. O’Leary and Bernier got a lot of the media oxygen and seemed to be the front-runners. But Scheer kept his eye on the ball and traveled and talked continuously with Conservatives across the country. His message was that there were a lot of things that Conservatives did well, and that Canadians would give the party another chance at government, but they had to have clarity about what they were offering people. Andrew Scheer beat them all and on the final ballot he edged out Quebec MP Maxime Bernier to win. Bernier initially accepted the result and congratulated Scheer publicly but quickly proved he was not a gracious loser. Bernier made immediate demands upon Scheer including that he become the shadow Cabinet Finance Critic. Scheer refused, naming his friend and key supporter, Ottawa-area MP Pierre Poilievre to the role. Many in the national media and some in the party tried to suggest this was the beginning of a serious rift in Conservative landscape, others saw it differently. Scheer was putting his stamp on the party. The Canadian political landscape is littered with opposition leaders who wasted a lot of time and energy
shadow-boxing rivals they beat in leadership races. Robert Stanfield, Joe Clark, John Turner and Stephan Dion come to mind. Scheer’s steely determination, a quality many of his close advisers and friends say is one his best attributes, was emerging. In Poilievre, he had a trusted confidant, key supporter and a former minister in the Harper government. Poilievre is smart on procedure, articulate and well liked in Tory circles. He is widely disliked in opposition circles for his knack of getting under people’s skin and causing problems for the government. Bernier was given a senior critic role on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development. Scheer left Conservative MP Kellie Leitch, who finished sixth in the leadership race, out of his shadow cabinet in a nod to party members who felt she had gone too far on the Canadian values issue which she kept raising. Leitch then announced she was not running for reelection. Fellow Saskatchewan MP Brad Trost, who finished fourth in the leadership campaign, was also left out of the shadow cabinet list. He had campaigned on social conservative values that opposed the ‘gay lifestyle’ and abortion. Scheer was signaling that he was not going to fall into the political trap of being caught up in polarizing social issues that distracted people from the real target: The Trudeau Liberals and their high-tax, high-spend agenda. Bernier would continue to pick moments to try to embarrass or be at odds with Scheer. Finally, prior to the Conservative Party of Canada National Policy Convention in Halifax in August, Bernier suggested that there was a problem with diversity and too many immigrants without
Many . . . tried to suggest this was the beginning of a serious rift in Conservative landscape, others saw it differently. Scheer was putting his stamp on the party. Canadian values coming to Canada, saying: “More diversity will not be our strength, it will destroy what has made us a great country.” Scheer distanced himself from the remarks and scolded Bernier publicly. It appeared this was what Bernier wanted to happen and he used the moment before the convention to quit the party and announce he was forming his own party (the People’s Party of Canada). Not one key Conservative in Canada followed Bernier. Scheer came out of the Halifax convention stronger than ever. Scheer had named several high-profile women to his shadow Cabinet including Candice Bergen as House leader and former leadership candidate Lisa Raitt as deputy leader. He made Michelle Rempel the shadow Critic for the immigration, refugees and citizenship file and kept former Conservative MP Rob Moore as the critic for Atlantic issues. The Conservatives were completely shut out in Atlantic Canada in 2015 but Scheer is determined to win back many of those seats. Through 2017 and much of 2018, the combination of rapid fire attacks by Bergen, Raitt and Rempel in question period over everything from Trudeau’s disastrous India trip, the mishandling of energy and pipelines issues, to concerns about immigration and criminal matters, the governments treatment of Afghan war veterans and the Liberal government’s apparent lax approach to dealing with ISIS fighters returning to Canada, started to take a toll on the government. This combined with Poilievre's constant battering of Finance Minister Bill Morneau concerning his own ethics issues and mishandling of the
Kinder Morgan sale was helping the Conservatives in the polls and in their pocket book. Under Scheer, the Conservatives have raised more money than the Trudeau Liberals for the last six quarters. Scheer’s strategy for going at the Trudeau government in the House was based on his knowledge of procedural issues. The shadow cabinet started utilizing rarely used procedural rules to slow the government down on a myriad of issues. Scheer led two all-night marathon voting sessions in the House to hold the Trudeau Liberals to account. Raitt, Bergen, Rempel and Poilievre, have become defacto populist politicians with high a recognition factor across Canada, while others like Erin O’Toole,Tony Clement and Mark Strahl help reinforce Scheer’s message that the Conservatives have competent people, a strong team and a leader who is ready to govern. Before we head inside for an interview with Andrew and Jill Scheer, Thomas, Grace, Madeline, Henry and Mary sit on the front door step for a photo. Ray the puppy is starting to crash as Thomas predicted and seems happy to be in the shot. Just as photographer Sean Sisk has everyone in place, three-year-old Mary walks out of the shot to pick up some dirt in the garden. Scheer laughs and tries to coax Mary to come back. Jill gets Mary to put down the two fistfuls of dirt and rejoin her siblings and Ray. Voila, Sean gets the shot. Everyone laughs . . . the kids are already back to running around and we go into the house for the interview. 21 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
ppp Andrew Scheer Ottawa Life Magazine I N T E R V I E W ppp OLM: How would you sum up your first year as Conservative Leader in terms of parliamentary business, the caucus, the party and your outreach of a Conservative message to Canadians? Andrew Scheer: I think we have done
a good job of holding the Liberals to account by getting them to change the tax hikes they wanted to impose on businesses and small business. We put pressure on them regarding the carbon tax and of course I think we have highlighted their poor handling of the Trans Mountain issue. They have really done a lot of damage to the energy economy in Canada and we are holding them to account for their actions. On the immigration side we continue to raise legitimate concerns about refugees and immigrants looking to reunite with their family who are being forced to wait while the Trudeau government gives its priority to illegal border crossers. On the caucus side, I think we have been very effective in holding the government to account in both the House during Question Period and in committee. Our outreach to Canadians has been effective and we have strong support across the country and are competitive in every province. We won a key by-election in Quebec doubling our vote in the riding over the Liberal candidate. In Ottawa in Kanata, we have a great Canadian success story and very strong candidate named Justina McCaffrey running for us next year. She is very impressive – a successful businesswoman with an international reputation and someone who is committed to Conservative principles. She has a great track record in the local community and has done all that while raising a family-she is reflective of Canada today.
Andrew Scheer: We support Canada’s
energy sector and pipelines. This government has really made a mess of things. Pipelines and the energy sector are key economic drivers for our economy. First off, we will work aggressively to sell Kinder Morgan. This government paid $4.5 billion in taxpayer money for Kinder Morgan – that is about $2-billion more than they should have paid. And now after buying it, they can’t build it.This is the most expensive scandal in the history of Canadian politics. This on top of the Liberals stopping the Northern Gateway pipeline and killing Energy East with regulatory changes; We support the Energy East pipeline – these types of projects should be considered national building projects – we should be working on energy policies that remove our need for foreign oil whether it's from Saudi Arabia or elsewhere. A Conservative government will support the hardworking men and women in the resource sector across Canada whose jobs and livelihoods depend on the projects that Justin Trudeau has shut down. OLM: Do you think Canada should have a national energy strategy that includes refineries on the east coast and west coast?
Andrew Scheer:Yes.We support projects that are national building projects that are good for Canada, for Canadian workers and for Canada’s energy and resource economy. OLM: Where are you on Carbon Taxes?
Andrew Scheer: We are concerned
Andrew Scheer: We do not believe in the Trudeau government’s carbon pricing scheme. The carbon tax is bad for everyone. It’s bad for big business; it’s bad for families, everyone. As prime minister will be to get rid of (it) once and for all.
OLM: What is your view on pipelines?
OLM: Can you talk about the tax changes brought in by the Trudeau government since 2015. One of the tax changes was an escalator tax that could have the effect of putting Canada’s Spirits sector out of business. This tax now automatically increases each year.
OLM: What is your take on the NAFTA and any new agreement.
about the effects any deal will have on the dairy and pharmaceutical sectors and what impact a deal might mean for the auto sector. We also have some concerns on the agriculture side. We will have to wait to see the final text.
22 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
Andrew Scheer: I am against escalator
in principle. The escalator the Liberal government imposed is regressive and adversely affects not only the Spirits industry but also corn farmers across Canada. An escalator tax goes against fundamental principles regarding taxation because they are automatic every year. The spirits industry and the craft beer industry have enormous costs already and then they have marketing costs, so this is really a bad idea from some official in the finance department and this government got suckered into going along with it. This is really an unfair tax that makes no sense and hurts both the spirits industry and the craft beer industry.
OLM: Are you concerned about the debt and spending by this government? What would a Scheer government do differently? Andrew Scheer: I believe in balanced budgets. The deficit for this year is $18 billion, which is triple what Justin Trudeau promised during the 2015 election. Trudeau and Morneau are projecting no balanced budgets until 2045. That means they agree with these additional deficits that will add $450 billion to Canada’s national debt over the next 27 years. The Liberals have been asking Canadian families and local businesses to pay more to offset this government’s out-of-control spending. Families are already paying more than $800 extra per year in taxes with the Trudeau government and local businesses are now paying more in taxes as well . . . and last winter Justin Trudeau suggested that small businesses are tax cheats. They aren’t of course. But that is how this government sees our hardworking entrepreneurs and businesses. OLM: What happens to the cannabis law if Andrew Scheer is prime minister in 2019? Andrew Scheer: We have expressed . . . and I have expressed my concerns about the new law and the way it’s been brought in. We will review the law when we become government and assess the next steps. People will know where we stand, and we will have an
official position on Cannabis and what we will do with the new law if elected, prior to the election next year. OLM: What is the Andrew Scheer approach to Indigenous affairs in Canada. What will be different from the Justin Trudeau approach? Andrew Scheer: We want to ensure that Indigenous people have a real path in Canada and are fully participating in the economic opportunities and development. It’s not just about spending more money – it’s about ensuring that Indigenous people are getting the opportunities others do to participate in the economy and having a way of measuring that progress. OLM: What are your views on the Canadian relationship with China? Andrew Scheer: We have some concerns related to the Chinese-Canada relationship. Justin Trudeau has not done very well in foreign affairs. He messed up the Trans Pacific Trade Agreement, had an embarrassing trip in India from which he came back empty handed. China has lots of issues-human rights concerns, transparency and openness concerns, some security and intellectual property concerns so we must be aware of the risks when dealing with China. We are in favour of trade and business with many countries and we will work with China while continuing to address some of those issues. OLM: You grew up in Ottawa, went to school here, and then moved to Regina. You know Ottawa very well. You’ve also been Speaker of the House, so you would be very familiar with the National Capital Commission (NCC) and its questionable reputation. For years many people in Ottawa have called for the NCC to be reformed or even shut down. Would a Scheer government review the mandate of the NCC? Andrew Scheer: I'm very aware of the sense of frustration people in the region have at times with the NCC as it relates to their overall accountability and transparency. The mandate of the NCC is focused around core issues and that mandate may be something that should be reviewed by elected MPs in a new government n
Meet Jill Scheer
A QUICK Q&A
OLM: How are you adjusting to your role since Andrew won the leadership? Jill Scheer: It's fine, we are a busy, active family and it can be crazy busy
sometimes but overall its good. Since winning the leadership we are back in Ottawa with the kids and that is all working well. We are lucky as a family to be able to do and experience some of the things that goes with this role. Andrew travels as part of the job but when he is home, he is home, and he loves spending time with the kids playing sports, walking the dog, that kind of thing. There are many families who are busy like us, one parent might have to travel for work from time to time, so we are no different in that regards. We feel very lucky as a family.
OLM: Do you find it hard to juggle five kids with the other expected duties that come with being the spouse of the Leader of the Official Opposition Party of Canada. Jill Scheer: Overall, I think its fine. I don't have a thick skin, so I've been
working on that. It's hard when someone says something about a person you love — and it can be hard for the kids especially when directed at Andrew — so there is a part of that you must deal with and manage.
OLM: What would you say is the quality you admire most about your husband as a father, as a husband and as the Leader of the Official Opposition in Canada? Jill Scheer: Selflessness. Andrew always puts family first and he has is similar in
the way he treats constituents and colleagues. It’s one of the great and genuine things about him.
OLM: How do you like being back in Ottawa? Do you miss Saskatchewan? Jill Scheer: We really like Ottawa. The people here are great. We’ve made a lot of new friends in the neighbourhood and the kids like it too, so no complaints. In Saskatchewan people are very friendly and very welcoming. They open their hearts up to outsiders and come together in crisis. I think everyone witnessed that last year when the tragic Humboldt hockey accident happened. You just come together, that is the way people are in Saskatchewan. I get home for visits so it all works. OLM: We heard you are a big football fan. Your brother played for the Seattle Seahawks. Are you a REDBLACKS or Riders Fan? Jill Scheer: I love football and sports. Of course, everyone in Saskatchewan,
me included, are Roughriders fans. I'm a true fan . . . I bleed green! (laughs) Andrew is a bit of a sports nut too. He loves to watch games in his downtime on TSN. The kids like sports too: basketball, hockey, playing outside — like a lot of families we have pretty active kids n 23 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
profile by OLM staff
The Canada-Croatia bond is built on tourism, trade an investment arica Matkovic is the Croatian M ambassador to Canada and works from the recently renovated embassy on a historic property in Ottawa’s leafy Sandy Hill neighbourhood.
Croatia has a centuries-old history and has been a key player in European affairs dating back to the ninth century when the first Croatian king was crowned. Today, Croatia is a modern and open middle-European country and one of the world’s most popular gastronomy and tourism destinations. It is the youngest member of the European Union, joining in July 2013. In October, Croatia celebrated its 25th anniversary of independence from the former Yugoslavia. Recognized for its sweeping land-scapes, unspoiled beaches, reasonably priced high-end hotels and villas, Mediterranean sunshine, fresh seafood and popular markets, the country is the hidden gem of Europe. Zagreb was named the best Christmas market in Europe in an online poll by the website European Best Destinations for the past three years. In 2016, 16 million tourists visited Croatia. This number is incredible given that the country has only 4.3 million inhabitants. Croatia gave the world the pen, the cravat, the parachute and the world’s first electric speedometer. It has developed one of the world’s fastest electric cars — not a surprise considering Croatia is Tesla’s birthplace. 24 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
As well, Croatia is also a location of choice for films and series like Game of Thrones, Star Wars, Robin Hood and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. Canada has strong bi-lateral affairs in business, investment and cultural and academic affairs with Croatia. Matkovic said her main goal since arriving in Canada has been to push bilateral relations between the countries. In 2017, exports from Croatia to Canada (mainly medications, electrical transformers and aluminum foil) totaled more than $50 million, while exports from Canada to Croatia (medications, dried leguminous vegetables and aircraft parts) amounted to $23 million. Matkovic said this, combined with Croatia's strong information technology sector and innovative companies, make it superb investment and a lowrisk opportunity for Canadian investors. Matkovic added that the Croatian Chamber of Economy has a program that promotes private and public projects including infrastructure projects such as the reconstruction, modernization and development of seaports, airports, other transport and trade integration projects, tourism, greenfield and brownfield projects and energy projects. The Croatian Investment Promotion Act is one of the most attractive in all of Europe. By constantly improving the investment climate and adopting agreements to avoid double taxation — with more than 50 countries, including Canada —
Ambassador Marica Matkovic
Croatia offers many tax, employment, education and other incentives to potential investors. Matkovic said the embassy works cooperatively with Canadian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce (in Toronto) to help Croatians export to the Canadian market. Canadians can already buy chocolates and sweets from Kraš; vegeta, (a famous condiment that is a mixture of salt, spices and vegetables); Croatian wines and hard liquors such as rakija; and footwear by Borovo. Canadian companies have responded to Croatian investment opportunities. Canada’s Algoma Central Corporation purchased five ships from Croatia’s Uljanik Grupa Shipyard and Canadian Vermilion Energy Inc. has licenses for the extraction of several different hydrocarbons. On the tourism side, Canada’s Dundee 360 and Dalmi Resorts, together with Croatian partners, have invested $750 million in building tourism facilities in the Dalmatian cities of Primosten and Cavtat. Matkovic said she expects the Canada/ Croatia relationship will grow in coming years. She invites Canadians to visit Croatia to see what a wonderful place it has become for visitors and investors alike n Ambassador Marica Matkovic can be reached at vrhotta@mvep.hr or at
(613) 562-7820.
*Named by the Association of Travel Agencies from Quebec, October 2018.
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
op-ed by Arthur Kent
From Postmedia and Don Martin,
a deafening silence on ethics and law
is a law of the media jungle that was Italready old news in 1972. That’s when Prof. Phyllis Wilson explained accountability to our secondyear class at Carleton University’s School of Journalism. “Even the best newspapers and reporters make mistakes,” she said. “And they stay the best by fixing them, honestly and openly.” Phyllis is legendary in Ottawa. For years in the 1960s, she was the only woman reporter at the Citizen, now owned by Postmedia, whose flagship National Post has an ethics guide that echoes Phyllis’ words: “Like everyone we make mistakes. Readers understand this and will usually forgive us our errors if we are seen to correct them promptly and without reservation.” Sadly, Postmedia and its former political writer, Don Martin, are not living up to that standard. In 2016, after a 23-day trial, Postmedia and Martin were found guilty of defaming me when I ran in the 2008 Alberta election. In May of this year, in my appeal on costs, three justices of Alberta’s highest court unanimously ruled the media defendants acted fraudulently in the lawsuit by concealing documents and giving false evidence. Malice seemed the only apparent motive for the article at issue, the judges wrote. “Court of Appeal in Alberta finds allegations of fraudulent concealment were true,” Canadian Lawyer Magazine reported. The Lawyer’s Daily called the decision a “cautionary tale” for media and lawyers. PHOTO: JEFF MCINTOSH
Postmedia and Martin did not appeal the findings against them, so, the rulings are final. On the witness stand at trial, Martin admitted his lede paragraph was “not true.” Those words provided the gist of the article and its headline, depicting a reckless candidate mocked by his own party. The story appeared in print editions of the National Post, Calgary Herald and Edmonton Journal, and remained published online for nearly five years. The court rejected Postmedia’s denials of continuing Internet publication. The trial judge found Martin knew “several” of his sources “had an axe to grind” and “repeatedly” attributed negative comments to multiple sources when only single sources were in evidence. He made no “meaningful effort” to contact his subject for comment, and “actively sought out negative information,” which he made no real effort to verify. When I filed a written response, Martin misled his editors with“misinformation” about two of his unnamed sources.This, the judge ruled, “likely coloured” the newspapers’ unreasonable refusals to publish the rebuttal. The defendants “should have provided” an opportunity to respond. The court ruled that fair comment defences were negated by “multiple defamatory factual statements” not saved by the Supreme Court’s tests for responsible journalism. Ten of Martin’s “facts” were simply untrue or unworthy of reportage protection, since Postmedia’s claims they were credible and originated
elsewhere proved unfounded. The appeal justices wrote that although the trial judge found malice was not proven, “no other motive for the article has been suggested.”They noted Martin’s testimony on key points “lacked candor and was unreliable.” Where his evidence conflicted with other witnesses, “the trial judge almost invariably preferred the testimony of the others.” Canada’s legal archives speak to the case, too. Searches confirm that Postmedia is the only news organization and Martin, the lone journalist, in Canadian history to be found guilty in court of defaming an election candidate. Remarkably, they appear not to have grasped the “cautionary tale” of the verdicts against them.They have neither admitted their mistakes to Canadian news consumers or apologized to the court for acting as though they’re above the law. Their insurer, Hiscox Inc., has now paid me $470,000 in costs and a further $200,000 in damages. However, there has been no explanation of how Hiscox’s public stance against insurance fraud squares with the misconduct found by the appeal justices. As well as providing a sense of vindication, the judgments affirm my belief that every journalist and news organization must pull their weight in restoring public trust in what we do. Surely that should include the nation’s largest newspaper chain, and a nationally televised news host n Arthur Kent began his career in television news 44 years ago at CJOH-TV, now CTV Ottawa. Currently he is filming an investigative documentary about the Cold War. 25 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
PHOTO: ADAM SCOTTI
pipelines and progress by OLM staff
Message to Trudeau government – pipelines make sense lberta Premier Rachel Notley’s A anger at the Trudeau government’s mishandling of Canada’s multi-billion
Trans Mountain Pipeline was a wakeup call to Canada about just how badly the country’s energy file has been mishandled since 2015. Her comments came after a panel of three judges said the National Energy Board’s review of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion proposal was so flawed that the federal government could not use it as a basis for its decision to approve the project. The decision put into jeopardy tens of thousands of jobs across Western Canada all because of the Trudeau government’s bizarre and confusing policy about the role of pipelines. This uncertainty caused Kinder Morgan to pull out of the $7-billion privatesector-funded project earlier this year. The initial government response was to shell out $4.5 billion of taxpayer money to buy the project from Kinder Morgan. Finance Minister Bill Morneau assured the House of Commons that shovels would be in the ground this summer. Then, the court shut everything down.
The Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) publishes an annual report on the performance of its members. The CEPA Integrity First® program enables member companies to work collectively to strengthen the pipeline industry’s performance in critical areas of safety, environmental protection and socio-economic practices.
of zero incidents — no incident is acceptable.”
CEPA hosted an event in Ottawa in August 2017 where media and stakeholders learned in real time how companies, government and related parties all work together to ensure the highest response rate in case of an incident.
“Pipelines play a vital role in delivering the energy that fuels our lives, supports jobs and drives economic growth across Canada,” said Karl Johannson, CEPA Board Chair and Executive VicePresident & President, Canada and Mexico Gas Pipelines for TransCanada Corporation. “Our industry does not compete on safety. We are committed to collaboration and continuous improvement because we know that Canadians expect our oil and natural gas supplies to be transported in the safest, most responsible manner possible.”
UNTIL THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GETS ITS ACT TOGETHER, ALBERTA IS PULLING OUT OF THE FEDERAL CLIMATE PLAN. — Alberta Premier Rachel Notley, Aug. 30, 2018.
Canada’s transmission pipeline companies employ 13,500 full-time workers and operate almost 135,000 kilometres of pipeline in Canada and the United States. In 2017, pipelines moved approximately 1.4-billion barrels of crude oil and 5.7-trillion cubic feet of natural gas.
CEPA members held 542 emergency response exercises in 2017, ranging in complexity from emergency drills to full-scale exercises. They invested $22.2 million in innovative technology in 2017, focused on reducing pipeline corrosion and improving pipeline inspection, leak detection and damage prevention and CEPA members spent almost $4.1 billion in 2017 to obtain personnel, services, supplies and equipment from local sources, including $261 million from Indigenous suppliers.
These companies transport 97 per cent of Canada’s daily natural gas and onshore crude oil from producing regions to markets throughout North America. Their expertise and safety record is the best in the world.
“We are proud of our industry’s performance and how we are prepared to respond in the unlikely event of an incident,” said Chris Bloomer, CEPA President and CEO. “CEPA members are committed to a common goal
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While the number of significant incidents has trended downward the past five years, there was an increase to three significant incidents in 2017 from one in 2016.Two involved liquids pipelines and one involved a natural gas pipeline.
Given the record of the industry and its importance to Canada’s energy economy, Notley’s frustration is understandable and on Aug. 30 she directly linked her support for Ottawa’s climate-change agenda directly to Ottawa’s support for the pipeline industry. “Signing on to the federal climate plan can’t happen without the Trans Mountain pipeline.” “Today I’m announcing that with the Trans Mountain halted and the work on it halted, until the federal government gets its act together, Alberta is pulling out of the federal climate plan and let’s be clear, without Alberta, that plan isn’t worth the paper it’s written on.” Ouch n
pipelines and progress by Dan Donovan
Canada’s most influential labour leader on new USMCA trade deal, pipelines and politics s president of Unifor — Canada's A largest private-sector union — Jerry Dias has been at the forefront of the most pressing economic, social and workplace issues the past decade.
He began working at de Havilland Aircraft (now Bombardier Aerospace) in 1978, becoming a steward and eventually president of Local 112. A fighter for labour and workplace improvements, he made his presence known in 1985 when he led the work stoppage that resulted in the current day national Workplace Hazardous Mat e r i a l s I n f o r m a t i o n S y s t e m (WHMIS), which includes the right to know about dangerous materials. Dias went on to be one of the most effective union negotiators in Canada taking on General Motors, Boeing and Coca-Cola among others in numerous effective campaigns that prevented workplace closures and led to the implementation of important improvements for workers’ safety and rights. By 2007, he was a key advisor to the legendary Buzz Hargrove, former national president of the CAW. Dias’ reputation as a committed trade unionist, focusing on the needs of local union leaders and rank-and-file members and credibility with members and shop-floor bargaining committees culminated in his election as the first president of the Unifor union in August 2013. Unifor represented a merger between the Canadian Auto Workers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada. On a personal level, Jerry Dias is a very likeable fellow. He sports charisma, a disarming personality, an in-depth knowledge of issues as well as the
ability to succinctly (and at times bluntly) distill very complex issues into simple prose. There can be no doubt about his influence within government circles in Ottawa. On Sept. 30, 2018 a new free trade agreement was reached between the United States, Mexico and Canada. Before Global Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland settled on the final terms with Robert Lighthizer, the United States trade representative, she called on to get his opinion, reportedly telling him that she would not proceed with the deal unless he and UNIFOR supported it. Dias was a key counselor to Freeland during the 18-month negotiations. He insured she was fully briefed on what Canada’s labour unions would accept, and more importantly, would not accept from the Americans during the testy talks. In mid-August 2018, it was Dias who spoke up for Canada and Canadian workers, rebuffing threats made by U.S. President Donald Trump directed at Canada’s auto sector. In an impromptu news scrum response, Dias told reporters that “He’s (Trump) not going to intimidate us — Trump’s threats to Canada make no economic sense and Canada is not going to get bullied into a bad deal.” Global Affairs officials were ecstatic about the Dias comments. Freeland had ordered staff to not respond to any of Trump’s bombastic remarks, even the very nasty personal remarks Trump had made about her. Dias doesn’t work for the government, but he hit back hard at Trump signaling that he had Freeland’s back (and
Canada’s). When the deal was done, he told reporters there were “huge victories in the new trade deal with the U.S. and Mexico,” and noted while he was not entirely pleased with the dairy concessions made by Canada “there is room to mitigate the impact on the dairy sector.” In what can only be described as a very rare occurrence, the government, the official opposition, business leaders and Canada’s most influential union and union leader were for once all on the same page hailing the new deal as being good for Canada. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh immediately came out against the deal as bad for labour and workers but he had difficulty explaining why or speaking to the substance of the agreement. This further underscored his growing reputation for being light on policy. This, contrasted with Dias’ knowledge on trade and workers issues was profound. Dias, pipelines and energy in Canada Jerry Dias says Unifor supports the federal government decision to buy the Trans Mountain Pipeline project from Kinder Morgan, with caveats.
“I believe in good jobs for our workers and we have an expertise in this sector like no other. What we really need is a national energy strategy in this country so energy production — things like pipelines can be regulated in line with our environmental commitments. I’m talking about a strategy that maximizes Canadian workers expertise and jobs at all stages of energy production including equipment manufacturing, production services, upgrading, refining, and secondary manufacturing.We continue 27 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
to support the creation of a Canadawide energy grid, so that Canadian energy resources can continue to be used to meet the needs of Canadian consumers. We need to reduce the reliance on imported energy in eastern Canada.” Dias supports the idea of an Energy East pipeline that could pump Alberta oil east for domestic, not foreign consumption. “We need to get everyone at the table — the government, business sector, energy workers, first nations and other stakeholders to see what we can achieve together.” When asked if he would participate in that discussion, Dias was resolute. “Absolutely — if it’s good for workers and for Indigenous people and for Canada, Unifor will be there.” He says Canada can have energy development and the strict safety and environmental standards for new and renovated pipelines. “The problem with Trans Mountain
and other energy resources we are shipping is that we are not refining oil in Canada and that takes jobs and economic opportunity away from Canada. We need to rethink how we are doing pipelines and why ship our oil and let other countries refine it instead of doing it ourselves. The Chinese have technology now where they are refining oil as they transport it back to China. Canada can do better.”
provides thousands of jobs and helps get needed energy resources to market. We need to do it better and have a national discussion around what that looks like. But it doesn’t mean not doing energy or pipelines. That is ridiculous”.
He adds that “Unifor supports the rights of First Nations peoples to control what developments occur on their land, and their right participates and benefit economically from resource projects on their land.”
Notley is on the same page as Dias. Last spring she rebuffed Singh’s approach to energy saying “I am a New Democrat that comes from the part of the party that understands that you don’t bring about equality and fairness without focusing on jobs for regular working people — to forget that and to throw them under the bus as collateral damage in pursuit of some other high level policy objective is a recipe for failure and it’s also very elitist.”
Dias and politics When asked about the energy and pipeline disputes between Alberta’s NDP Premier Rachel Notley and federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and where Unifor fits into all of this, Dias was blunt.
“Look, I’m not a champagne socialist. I represent workers and families and some of the most talented energy workers in the world. Our energy sector
(Singh has come out against all pipeline development and believes Canada should buy its oil from foreign countries instead of building pipelines.)
When Dias is asked if he would enter politics to further his work, he is noncommittal. “Look, we are achieving things at Unifor for workers and making a difference. I’m happy with that — politics is another thing entirely.” n
BASED ON AN UNFORGETTABLE TRUE STORY OF LOVE AND SURVIVAL.
He tattooed a number on her arm. She tattooed her name on his heart. Available Where Books Are Sold
28 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
profile by Tori McNeely
The Ottawa Skin Clinic welcomes new services amidst expansion
he Ottawa Skin Clinic is Ottawa’s T leading skincare and cosmetic clinic operating on the belief that beauty is much more about how you feel than it is about how you look.
Since its opening in 2007, the clinic has been synonymous with high patient satisfaction, providing only the best services tailored to each need. Founded by Dr. Alain Michon, the clinic offers more than 30 cutting-edge skincare solutions including advanced facials, laser hair reduction, BOTOX, dermal fillers like Juvederm, CoolSculpting, acne treatment, and more. Born and raised in New Brunswick, Dr. Michon has lived in Ottawa since 2000 and yet he has never lost his Maritimer’s warmth. “People can feel reluctant or scared when treating the health and appearance of their skin. At the clinic, I want them to feel welcome and that they are at ease in a clean, comfortable, safe and professional environment,” said Dr. Michon. Board certified by the American Association of Aesthetic Medicine, Dr. Michon has more than 10 years of practice in the field of medical aesthetics and is devoted to pursuing the latest treatment protocols and techniques. He is a part-time emergency physician at the Montfort Hospital and an associate professor with the University of Ottawa. “For me, coming to the clinic is a much different atmosphere,” said Dr. Michon. PHOTO: KAREN TEMPLE
“In emergency there is always this stress and suffering, but at the clinic people enjoy being here.” Dr. Michon’s work in medical aesthetics has not gone unnoticed. He was recognized as a Top Doctor on RealSelf.com and awarded the Diamond Injector designation by Allergan. For the past three years, the Ottawa Skin Clinic has been awarded the Top Choice award as the Top Cosmetic Clinic in Ottawa.
It is rare to find a patient who has not been pleased with the service provided by Dr. Michon and his staff. Alongside Dr. Michon is a team of industry-leading skin care professionals all with the same commitment to quality care and an undeniable passion for medical aesthetics. It was with great pride that on Sept. 19, Dr. Michon and his team celebrated the opening of the medical spa’s new location at 349 St. Laurent Blvd. “With the new location we will be able to see more patients and offer more services as we expand from four patient rooms to 10 rooms. We have also partnered with SkinCeuticals which is a medical grade skincare line from L’Oreal Paris. “Partnering with them distinguishes us as one of the very few SkinCeutical
Advanced Clinical Spas in all of North America.” With a bigger space and ample parking, the Ottawa Skin Clinic has also introduced two groundbreaking treatments: EMSCULPT® and EMSELLA®. EMSCULPT® is a non-invasive, nonradiating and non-thermal butt lift treatment that works by creating very powerful contractions that would be otherwise unachievable. A 30-minute session can generate up to 20,000 muscle contractions. This treatment is the world’s only procedure proven to burn fat and build muscle simultaneously. It can also be used to define one’s abdominal muscles. EMSELLA® is a simple yet effective treatment that helps restore pelvic floor muscles that might have weakened as a result of childbirth, menopause or ageing. With six easy, non-invasive treatments of only 28 minutes each, you can regain control of your body and confidence. One session of Emsella is equal to more than 11,000’s Kegel exercises!
The Ottawa Skin Clinic actively supports women’s health and skin initiatives including the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Breast Cancer Action Ottawa and the Skin Care Foundation. By remaining at the forefront of patient care, professionalism and the most upto-date treatment protocols, the Ottawa Skin Clinic continues to set itself apart from others n ottawaskinclinic.ca 29 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
oh cannabis/op-ed by Victoria Dekker
21st-century cannabis
for the 21st-century consumer squinting quality-assurance A technician inspects the tangerine peaks and emerald valleys of a
The aroma in the sterile trimming room is somewhere between tart cherry preserves and freshly sliced orange – hallmarks of this plant’s terpene profile.
Best practices in cannabis growth, sale and distribution have evolved considerably in recent years. As laws change and potential for research and development open, forwardthinking producers take advantage of new opportunities to gather data and develop products they say will satisfy and delight groups of cannabis consumers, who have evolved just as much as the plants they’re smoking, vaping and the oils they’re eating.
With surgical precision, the technician carefully clips away any remaining sugar leaves from the dense, five-and-a-halfgram bud before placing it on a vented drying tray. When the pan catches the light in just the right way, it shimmers like a Swarovski display case.
The Edison line and the Edison Reserve line hit shelves in regulated retail points across the country on Oct. 17, when Canada’s legal cannabis program opened for business. In Ontario, it is available from the Ontario Cannabis Store online platform.
This is premium cannabis. Selected for robust genetics, unique aroma profiles and effect capabilities, the plants in the Edison Cannabis Co.’s roster are unlike anything you’ve likely seen before.
Edison’s parent company, Organigram, is one
“It’s not the same stuff you got from the guy behind the bowling alley,” said Edison Cannabis Co. director of operations Matt Rogers. “This is something else entirely.”
and recreational markets.
voluptuous cannabis flower named Lola Montes. It’s close to perfect, but not quite.
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just the 18th producer in Canada to receive its cultivation and sales licenses in March 2014. In a market with around 120 licensed producers today – over half of whom received licensing within the past year – the company has a four-year head start over its competition. The experience working with thousands of plants and thousands of medical cannabis patients has proven invaluable, Rogers said. The company is using all that data to its advantage and is the foundation on which the Edison brand was conceived. “Years in the cannabis industry are like dog years, especially in a fully indoor environment,” said Rogers. “We can rotate five crops per room per year.With over 50 three-tiered growing rooms
of Canada’s original licensed producers that has diversified from a medical-only company to cater both medical
The company is in an advantageous position when compared to its newly licensed competitors. Organigram was
online in our facility today, it’s basically the equivalent of 250 summers in one year. We’re able to gather so much data
in that time and learn so much about our plants and how to optimize our growing processes – it’s extraordinarily advantageous for the person who buys and ultimately enjoys the product.That pre-roll, that package of flower, that bottle of cannabis oil – a great deal has gone into the development of those end products.” And while Organigram growers have spent the past four years fine-tuning their plant work, its product specialists have studied cannabis marketplaces and cannabis consumers – including Organigram’s own patient base – to learn what quality means to those with a discriminating sensibility. Consensus leaned toward the notion of premiumization; offering products that are rich in cannabinoids, boast complex and powerful terpene and flavonoid profiles, and have a prize-winning visual appeal – the kind of product you’d brag about to anyone who might listen, said Organigram chief commercial officer, Ray Gracewood. “Cannabis enthusiasts, the ones who really love this plant, are coming to understand and appreciate more about it with every passing day. We’re of the same mind. This is a plant we care for deeply and seek to understand more about; how to best grow it, how to best nurture it post-harvest, and how to best enjoy it. We’re working every day to get better at all of it and to share what we’re learning.” The Edison Cannabis Co. lineup includes dried flower, pre-rolled joints and infused edible oil. Its upperechelon line – Edison Reserve – is made exclusively of hand-selected top flowers, reputed as the most sought-after part of the entire plant. Each are craftcured and carefully hand-manicured, to retain the flower’s unique shape and characteristics, and as many valuable, cannabinoid-rich trichomes as possible. The buds are so big, they’re packed in specially designed, scent-proof, resealable pouches. They wouldn’t fit
in any other standard-sized vessel, said Gracewood. The humidity and temperature in the Lola Montes drying room is precisely attuned to ensure excess moisture is pulled from the flowers, eliminating any potential for mold. Once the flowers are dried, they’ll be cured at a snail’s pace to promote chlorophyll breakdown and reveal the full palette of the plant’s flavour and aromatic oils. Post-harvest care is a piece of the puzzle that’s often overlooked in the commercial cannabis production process, but a piece that can have a big impact on a final product and something growers at the facility have come to learn, Rogers said.
The brand is an homage to creativity and innovation. While Thomas Edison inspired the brand’s namesake, creators pulled elements from all corners of modern art, science and culture into the aesthetic. “It’s something we’ve had a lot of fun with. When conceiving the brand, we wondered: what are some of the greatest achievements in technology, science and art over the past century?” Gracewood said, explaining the brand’s logo, a hybrid atomic leaf and logo that could have been ripped from a 1950s pulp fiction cover. Just like Lola Montes, Casablanca, Rio Bravo, La Strada and City Lights flowers are all named after Oscar-winning films, he said.
“Every part of this product – from cloning, to curing, to hand-packaging – has been well thought-out. These are elements we believe make the difference from a mediocre to an exceptional cannabis experience.” And as much as they’ve come to learn about what a premium product should be, they’ve learned a great deal about the people who want to buy it, Gracewood added. “When it comes to this idea of a cannabis consumer, that classic stereotype often comes to mind first. While yes, there absolutely is a segment of people who fit that ‘lazy stoner’ definition, we know that many, many others who consume cannabis do not. They’re well-educated, interested in technology, arts and culture. They’re homeowners, parents, professionals. They’d check out a Banksy exhibit on a Sunday afternoon. They might not consume cannabis daily, but they’ve probably got a custom rolling tray, a preferred method of consumption and can tell the difference between schwag and AAAA flower. That’s the kind of consumer Edison was designed for.”
When this crop of Lola Montes is trimmed, set and stored, Rogers adjusts the humidity settings, decreasing it by one per cent. It’s an incremental environmental difference from the conditions the last crop was treated with but could change the final product for the better – they’ll have to wait and see, Rogers said. “Innovation and this idea of never settling really propel the Edison Cannabis Co.,” said Gracewood. “We’ve come to understand that if we get to a point where we think we can’t get any better, we’ll stop trying. We try to improve our products with each successive harvest. We never want to stop growing.” n
For more information on the Edison Cannabis Co., visit edisoncannabis.com 31 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
oh cannabis by Jonathan Marshall
Looking forward
from the cannabis front lines with Delta 9
here were you the moment W that cannabis became legal for recreational consumption? It’s a day that is going to be ingrained in our nation's history, and while many Canadians never thought that they would see the day come, there were those who have been waiting for that moment for nearly a decade.
Delta 9 was one of the first licensed producers of cannabis in Canada, and have been providing medical marijuana for patients since 2012. Back then, it was nearly impossible to imagine that we would see joints freely lit on front porches with the decade, but Bill and John Arbuthnot had two things that separated them from the competition; a passion for growing quality cannabis, and impeccable foresight. This father and son team had been working with patients using cannabis for several years, carefully producing strains that aided with specific ailments. While John was studying business at the University of Manitoba, he devised a program that helped patients gain access to Health Canada’s Medical Marihuana Access Regulations program. Within five years, this onceobscure program would grant him and the newly founded Delta 9 corporation licenses to produce and distribute marijuana across the country, the 4th company to gain status as a Licensed Producer. Arbuthnot is now the CEO and Director of Delta 9, and is aware that his 32 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
young age stands out in the industry — though the ordained “Kid Cannabis” views his youth as a strength.
“To be one of the only CEOs in the core consumer demographic, I think it puts me in a position to uniquely contribute my opinion towards the product development side.” — John Arbuthnot, Delta 9
With the freedom to grow cannabis came a swath of regulations, responsibilities, and a strict incentive to stick to the key core values that Arbuthnot outlined when he founded the company.“Think big, but think as a small family business,” says Arbuthnot. “It means becoming a responsible corporate citizen, it means being involved in and giving back to every community that we operate in.” These values include a commitment to creating small-batch, high quality cannabis for responsible use. In order to do this, Delta 9 decided to think differently and move in a new direction. “It really starts with our Delta 9 Grow Pods,” explains Arbuthnot. These are the platforms used by the company to hydroponically produce more than 60 strains of cannabis that they stock in their genetic seed bank. Each plant is carefully nurtured from seed to harvest, being hand trimmed to ensure that what is delivered to distributors is what they refer to as a “craft cannabis product.”
This focus on high quality standardization has successfully positioned Delta 9 as a leader in the premium category of the marijuana market. Arbuthnot believes strongly in this small-batch process, saying, “A big part of our strategy in what differentiates us from the competition is ensuring we aren’t looking at this product as a commodity, as some of the larger greenhouse players are, we are really looking at this as a consumer packaged good.” Genetics and strain intellectual property play a huge role in staying at the vanguard of an industry full of competition, each claiming to have the ‘best’ product. With over 75 strains currently under production, Delta 9 understands that to stand out, they need to focus on individual attributes of plants, be it high yield, heightened potency, or even certain flavour profiles. By offering the most choice in features, they plan to stay at the top of connoisseur cannabis community minds. PHOTO: COURTESY DELTA 9
The real challenge for companies like Delta 9 who have been operating for years as Licensed Producers, is transitioning from medical to recreational while remaining relevant to a totally new type of consumer. Instead of buying out of necessity, these customers have specific preferences and a wide selection of brands to choose from, and the same marketing tactics will not be as effective. Arbuthnot says they have been preparing for the opening of this market since it was initially announced several years ago, and have taken steps to meet the massive demand while staying true to their foundational values. The implementation of two separate programs, one for medical and one for recreational use, will each seek out creative ways to retain their respective client bases. “For us at Delta 9, what that means on the medical side is really making a concentrated push over the coming years to make our products more medical,” says Arbuthnot. “To look at the oils, the extracts, and the alternative drug delivery platforms from product development standpoint so we can compete in that segment.” Having successfully obtained an oil extraction license, and partnering with NanoSphere Health Sciences to access their state-of-the-art delivery system for cannabinoids, and becoming a preferred supplier of Pharmasave, Delta 9 is evolving to meet the demands that modern medical patients that use cannabis will have. As for the recreational market, Delta 9 plans to not only serve their craft cannabis products to consumers in plant form, but you may find yourself pouring one out in the near future. In the past, they partnered with Fort Garry Brewing Company to create a hemp beer that was sold in Manitoba called “Legal Lager” and was met with positive reviews. While the beer was solely alcoholic, Phase 2 of their partnership will move into the realm of a THC-infused drink. While offering hip and delicious
products to recreational consumers is a momentous step, Delta 9 makes equal progress to emphasize their commitment to remaining a responsible corporate citizen. Though they are a business that is seeing substantial growth, the wellbeing of customers always takes centre stage, and this is especially highlighted via their Compassionate Pricing programs. The first of which is for patients who are on low-income salaries and disability pay, offering them access to a large discount on their purchase of medical cannabis strains. The second is available to all customers that purchase 30 grams or more will receive a discount on their order. Over the past three years, these programs in tandem have helped customers accessing medical cannabis save a collective $500,000 and will continue after legalization. Having been a part of the industry since the beginning, Delta 9 has always been looking ahead. Seeing the potential for the medical market to grow from obscurity to assimilation was clever, but Arbuthnot believes that his vision to enter the mainstream goes far beyond. Production and distribution of cannabis is an undoubtedly profitable sector, but Arbuthnot feels that the migration to retail will be a telling chapter in their companies history. “Vertical integration strategy has been at the forefront for us, it’s a strategy that not a lot of other producers have gone with,” says Arbuthnot. “We feel that there is real merit in that integration into retail, being able to control the messaging, the branding, and really, the consumer experience as we roll out across the country.” The province of Manitoba recently granted Delta 9 permission to operate at least four retail stores, with more on the way: Arbuthnot says that they are ready to operate a dozen stores by 2019 if the opportunity becomes available. As Canadians still come to terms with marijuana legalization, Delta 9 continues to seek out new ways to introduce their high quality cannabis products to a curious and excited audience n 33 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
PHOTO: COURTESY ORGANIGRAM
oh cannabis by Jonathan Marshall
How Organigram turned cannabis into an all-Canadian experience
y now, most of us will know B someone who has purchased cannabis in the legal retail market. Whether they are your relative, colleague, or friend, if they prefer to partake in the premium brands offered across Canada then they have likely enjoyed one of Organigram’s brands. The company was the first licensed producer in Atlantic Canada and quickly positioned themselves as one of the most trusted providers of medicinal cannabis to the nation.
There is a good chance you first heard of Organigram through patients who confidently chose the company to fill their prescriptions, or more recently on the news as a frontrunner in leading the charge for responsible recreational use and other safety and research initiatives. Either way, this East Coast business is making waves as the preferred choice for cannabis consumers who are looking for the finer things, and they’re just getting started. 34 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
In 2013, Organigram was founded in Moncton, New Brunswick to meet the needs of those looking for large-scale producers of high quality cannabis, and have remained in the province that has striven to market itself as the heart of cannabis evolution. As the industry transitioned from a focus on medical to recreational use, Organigram saw an opportunity to meet the demands of both demographics without sacrificing their original reputation as a medical supplier. “We are and always will be a medical company,” says Greg Engel, CEO of Organigram. “Our patients who we have built a strong relationship with can always trust us to provide them with effective products to ensure their quality of life.” With over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and the Atlantic cannabis industry, Engel understands better than most the value in building brands that consumers can be confident doing business with. Since joining the executive team 18 months ago, Engel has seen Organigram grow from 48 employees to over 400, and he firmly believes the secret to successful growth is staunchly based in a supportive corporate culture.
“One of the most important things I’ve learnt in the past 20 years in growing companies is surrounding yourself with great people, and putting them in positions to succeed,” he says. “You also need to create a culture of collaboration and making that a key aspect of what you do every day.”
tool there is, so Organigram has invested heavily in technology and infrastructure, the pinnacle of which is their new 100,000-square-foot production facility, capable of yielding more than 36-million grams of cannabis a year.
The state-of-the-art facility’s grow While Organigram remains committed rooms are outfitted with a unique tiered to their patients, their auxiliary growing model. Plants are stacked in brands have been widely praised rows three high, a method practiced by recreational consumers looking nowhere else in Canada. The model to enjoy carefully crafted cannabis has proven extremely effective for the products. They currently hold three company, as all available space in the separate brands, ANKR Organics, facility is used, resulting in maximum Trailblazer, The Edison Cannabis Co. output per square-foot. and Edison Reserve, which each target a specific niche of the recreational “ The delivery of our brand needs Canadian consumer. Trailblazer is a high-value brand sold at a slight discount, but without compromising quality. ANKR Organics is a brand for consumers focused on holistic health and see the validity in the attributes of organic product. The Edison Cannabis Co. and Edison Reserve lines are intended for consumers who are very discriminating in their usage. Building and growing multiple brands can prove challenging for any company, let alone those under such intense scrutiny as licensed producers are, but Chief Commercial Officer for Organigram, Ray Gracewood, has a simple strategy to uphold the brand. “Our core values have always centered on creativity, sophistication, innovation and quality,” says Gracewood, former director of marketing for Moosehead Breweries. “It comes down to consumer packaged goods fundamentals. Whether marketing cannabis, beer, or even insurance, you need to have a differentiated product, an authentic brand story, a defined target audience, which is as relevant in cannabis as it is for anything else.” Gracewood tactfully points out how a quality product is the best marketing
harm reduction workers to combat the rise in opioid abuse cases the province was facing. “The New Brunswick government has taken a leading role in supporting this growing industry,” says Engel. “We’re very cognizant of what we’re doing to give back to the province.” The future appears very friendly for the company, as only a limited number of licensed producers were ready to meet the demand when the adult recreational market launched on October 17. “It’s a great social experiment,” says
to be one that is rooted
in compassion and holistic health, and the belief that medical cannabis can better our patients lives.” — Ray Gracewood
Compassion isn’t limited to product production, either. Organigram has taken an aggressive stance on social responsibility and supporting the New Brunswick communities that have welcomed them. The company has funded awareness campaigns at Mount Allison University, designed to educate students about the realities of a cannabis-legal country. Working with campus administration, staff members and directly with students, they center the programming on responsible use. In 2017, Organigram also donated $20,000 to fund the acquisition and distribution of Naloxone kits and appropriate training to New Brunswick
Engel. “We have a world-class team, and the great thing about Moncton is having members coming from the food and beverage industry, manufacturing environments, or any other field, that show up every day and really show their passion for creating a modern company like Organigram.” For an industry that is evolving more rapidly than even consumers can keep up with, the potential for brand development is huge for those who have been here since the beginning. As the nation inhales, Organigram is holding their breath, awaiting the results of 2018 and heading into a very green future n organigram.ca 35 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
36 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
oh cannabis by Adam Miron
Always curious:
PHOTO: COURTESY HEXO
The inside story on the evolution of HEXO
Adam Miron
This spring, Quebec-based cannabis producer HEXO (formerly trading as Hydropothecary) launched the company’s adult-use brand. HEXO is a brand for explorers, the curious and the never jaded, but how did it come about? Co-founder and chief brand officer, Adam Miron, tells the story.
Consider the case of Donald Glover. Aka Childish Gambino. Aka the winner of 23 major awards across every performing art, from the Grammys to the Comedy Awards, from the Brits to the Writers Guild of America Awards. He’s an actor, most recently seen in Solo as a young and convincing Lando Calrissian. He’s a lauded musician, shaking up hip hop as Childish Gambino. He’s a comedian beloved as much for his edgy stand-up as his hilarious turns on Community and Saturday Night Live. Academics would call people like him polymaths, renaissance men for whom being productive means constantly creating and generating ideas in
multiple disciplines, simultaneously. They’re always exploring, constantly curious and never jaded. And, as it turns out, those qualities of being an explorer, innovator, thinker and doer are also at the core of our new adult-use brand, HEXO. Since 2013, when Hydropothecary was incorporated and became the first licensed producer in Quebec under the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR), we viewed ourselves as explorers, innovators and doers. It’s not hard to see why: legalized cannabis for medical use was still in its infancy, with just a handful of companies legally growing and selling cannabis.
The public, banks and the business world all looked sideways at the whole idea of the ‘demon’s weed’ not just being legalized but normalized. Then, as now, Hydropothecary was built for medical patients, like my father, who was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer just before we received our sales license in May 2015, and immediately became our first client. Hydropothecary will continue to cater to our medical patients, but as a corporation, the adult-use market is an opportunity to start from scratch, creating a brand that speaks to cannabis purists and cannabis tourists. A brand for people like us, those who are always exploring, constantly curious and never jaded. But building a new brand in a highly regulated industry with layers of compliance and oversight requires more than sitting around a table and brainstorming with our creative team. We dug deep into cultural, industry, brand and consumer truths. 37 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
What we discovered was surprising – yet confirmed what we already believed about our clients.
CANNABIS BY THE NUMBERS:
The cannabis consumer as a dropout and non-productive member of society is a stigma not reflected in the statistics. Research shows that compared to cannabis rejectors, cannabis consumers are more nurturing, socially more active, better-educated, earn more and are more likely to travel that cannabis rejectors.
ENJOY OUTDOORS — 50 per cent of cannabis consumers vs. 36 per cent of cannabis rejectors
For a culture obsessed with productivity, it turns out cannabis consumers are not the couch-potatoes they’re painted to be. In the cannabis industry, brands either reinforce stereotypes or reinforce stigma, by hiding from the truth of who they serve. Even companies who launched new rec. brands ahead of Oct. 17 threw as many ideas at the wall as they could, watching for which stick. With HEXO, we have done none of that. Having drilled down to very
SOCIALLY ACTIVE — 36 per cent of cannabis consumers vs. 28 per cent of cannabis rejectors
HOLD A MASTER’S DEGREE — 20 per cent of cannabis consumers vs. 12 per cent of cannabis rejectors
NURTURING — 60 per cent of cannabis consumers vs. 41 per cent of cannabis rejectors
thoughtful data, we have built a brand that explorers, the curious, the never jaded can be proud of; a brand that truly reflects who they are and allows them to celebrate both their productivity and their various lifestyles.
at our expanding facility.
At the same time, our company will continue to use its existing Hydropothecary brand for the medical cannabis market, and cannabis production for both brands will continue to be done in Gatineau, Que.,
There is one other truth that drives HEXO and all that we do: by creating brands around responsible use, we will have a hand in starving the black market. And that’s good news for Canadian society n
In both markets, our company's mission is to offer innovative and high-quality cannabis products, particularly in the smoke-free space.
Connection. An active lifestyle. Balance. It starts here, with you, at the Y.
Join today! ymcaywca.ca 38 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
oh cannabis by Anne Dion
When Your Prescription is Pot THE ABC’S OF CANNABIS
parties, cannabis use is familiar to F Canadians.
rom hospice rooms to backyard
For years, the cannabis plant has attracted a variety of public attitudes. Even though medical marijuana has been legal since 2001, many are still in the dark as to how it works, why it’s beneficial and whether it’s different from what gets passed around at parties. With recreational cannabis legal now, we’re breaking down what you need to know about the plant, its uses and what it does to those who use it. Plants of the cannabis genus contain two compounds that are key to understanding marijuana: cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in similar ways but have very different effects. THC produces a high or sense of euphoria and is the sought-after compound for recreational drug users. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it doesn’t produce the same feeling. Although both compounds have similar medical benefits and can provide relief from many of the same complaints, many patients prefer to use CBD and skip the psychoactive side effects, if therapy is all that they’re interested in. So where do THC and CBD come from? There are both male and female cannabis plants, and to those who use them, the difference matters. Only SOURCE: BDS ANALYTICS
female plants grow buds or flowers with enough THC to produce a ‘high’ when consumed. CBD on the other hand, appears in both male and female plants. Since the male plant (sometimes called ‘hemp’) is useless for growers of psychoactive cannabis, it is more often associated with CBD. Now on to your endocannabinoid system and how cannabis interacts with it.
with the CB1 receptor which then affects your brain. CBD not only interacts with CB2, but also dampens THC’s ability to interact with CB1. This means when you consume both compounds at once, you probably won’t feel ‘high’ because CBD can stop THC from working. When the CB2 receptor interacts with CBD it can help alleviate symptoms for those who suffer from seizures, chronic pain,
Both CBD and THC have the same atomic content; they both have 30 hydrogen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and two oxygen atoms. The THC and CBD molecules appear in two different atomic arrangements, however, which is why they affect your body in two different ways. Your endocannabinoid system extends throughout both your central and peripheral nervous system. Like everything in the human body, the system is infuriatingly complex, but in general it’s made up of naturally occurring cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors. Receptors send signals to the rest of the body depending on the cannabinoids they’re interacting with.
anxiety, arthritis, insomnia, depression and even MS. The medical benefits of THC and CBD are numerous. Cannabis is not an FDA-approved medicine, but it has been found to relieve and help manage a wide range of symptoms.
The whole system regulates painsensation, memory, appetite, mood, immune system and sleep.
Alongside the ‘high’ that it produces, THC can also help to manage pain, insomnia, anxiety, low appetite, nausea, muscle spasms and glaucoma.
The two main types of receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system are CB1 and CB2, which signal the brain and immune system respectively.
CBD is often used to relieve the symptoms of seizures and epilepsy, pain, anxiety, nausea, depression, migraines, mental disorders and inflammation.
As you might be able to guess, THC (the psychoactive compound) interacts
There are side effects related to THC and CBD. 39 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
second chance at life/health series by Jonathan Marshall
The controversy over safe injection sites is missing the point
he province of Ontario has recently T announced a review of supervised injection site programs (colloquially
termed safe injection sites), as Health Minister Christine Elliott put a hold on three planned sites in Toronto, Thunder Bay, and St. Catherines. Their reasoning echoes the sentiment felt by those who were initially resistant to welcoming these centres into their communities. Fear of increased drug use, trafficking, and confusion as to the goals of said sites sparked protests, but much of the flak that over the programs miss the fundamental reasoning for their existence.That being said, there is plenty to criticize about how Ontario and Canada as a whole treats sufferers of addiction. Safe consumption sites, as defined by Health Canada, are legally operated clinics for people to consume illegal drugs under supervision and access medical services that center on addiction.
They are primarily set up in areas known for heavy substance use, and are meant to reduce public and unsafe drug consumption for individuals who have difficulty accessing traditional health care systems. Typically working in tandem with existing medical services, a supervised site can also operate independently (with federal authorization) and mobile sites have even been offered to reach more members of the target population. Nurses, social workers, and community volunteers ensure 40 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
that clients do not overdose, provide private stations with clean needles (users bring and handle their own drugs), and offer users information on addiction treatment. In recent years, these sites have seen an especially large increase in opioid use as users become more comfortable accessing their services, and the threat of overdose due to fentanyl rises. Health Canada’s latest report points to a rise in opioid-related overdoses, and with nearly 4,000 deaths in 2017 opioid use has been steadily on the
IF REHABILITATIVE TREATMENTS DO NOT INCORPORATE COMMUNITY CARE, SAFE HOUSING, OR THERAPY THEN PROGRAMS SUCH AS SAFE INJECTION SITES ARE MERELY THE EPITOME OF A BAND AID SOLUTION.
rise for the past decade. Communities are scrambling for ways to combat this trend, but is suspending these programs really the right course of action? The first safe injection site in Canada was opened in Vancouver, where opioids have been the bane of the city for decades. Insite has operated since 2003, serving thousands of individual clients every year, but while it is strongly supported by the local and regional population the site has drawn the ire of both national and international parties. Insite (as well as safe injection sites at
large) and its auxiliary programs have been widely panned by Conservatives as promoting addiction and harm, rather than reducing it. It first opened its doors after having been constructed in secret by the Portland Hotel Society (PHS), a nongovernment organization, who was surprisingly granted permission to operate alongside Vancouver’s regional health services. Already the subject of notoriety, tensions rose to a breaking point in 2006 when the newly-elected Conservative party threatened to shut it down under claims of public danger and falsifying research data. This was prevented when the PHS and local clients of Insite brought the federal government to court, where the case was eventually appealed to the Supreme Court of Canada. It was unanimously ruled that the program had already demonstrated its utility to improve the quality of life of clients and save lives, and that closure would amount to a miscarriage of justice. Following this ruling, safe injection sites began opening up in major cities across Canada, whether in partnership with municipal governments or no. In Ottawa, despite opposition, four safe injection sites have opened. Depending almost solely on provincial funding to operate, these programs are reviewed frequently and are under immense pressure to constantly prove their merit.
Rapid changes in public favour and political leadership are preventing empirical decisions from being made and the reasons for these sites are now clouded and misunderstood.
and in Ware’s experience it is important to work with local communities in order to understand the cultural connotations tied up in members substance abuse.
The reality is that the opioid crisis is only scratching the surface of a much larger issue that safe injection sites cannot tackle on their own. In fact, it’s hardly about drugs at all.
“We’re doing scenario based education, which is helping children look at these problems in real life situations that they themselves may face,” he says.
Todd Ware is a counsellor at Homewood Health, one of Canada’s leading facilities for addiction and mental health treatment based in Vancouver, and sees people from all walks of life dealing with substance abuse on a daily basis. He believes that safe injection sites on their own are not enough to help someone entrenched in an environment that promotes self harming behaviours. “Addiction is addiction,” says Ware. “The failure in our system is when we narrow the focus to a single substance, we lose the vision of treating a health issue, which is addiction.” At Homewood Health, they offer services to both inpatient and outpatient clients, and aftercare support throughout Canada to help coach and guide people into healthier lifestyles. While safe injection sites solve the immediate issue of dangerous drug delivery methods, Homewood Health centres focus on long term solutions to the root causes that lead to substance abuse. Poverty, homelessness, and mental health disorders are all contributing factors to addiction, and substance abuse is like adding fuel to the fire that carries on the cycle. If rehabilitative treatments do not incorporate community care, safe housing, or therapy then programs such as safe injection sites are merely the epitome of a band aid solution. A victory for the opioid crisis is not simply preventing drug abuse from happening, it is providing access to supportive methods of care so that recovery becomes permanent. These strategies can take many forms,
Learning from and applying traditional practices can help form a stronger and more direct relationship with the client that increases the likelihood of recovery – once again, reaching all lifestyle factors preventing someone from making safe and healthy choices.
Pot is Prescription >> from page 39
Our bodies can tolerate even large doses of CBD with relative ease. Some 2017 research done by the World Health Organization seems to show that any negative CBD side effects most likely stem from the compound’s interaction with other medication you might be taking.
THC, however, has short-term side effects. Alongside the
Keeping safe injection sites open is a good start, but it is ultimately working backwards from the real problems and will never be enough to meet the needs of those already suffering from addiction. We need common sense healthcare programs that support atrisk populations, and while it can take years for new policies to be implemented and even longer to measure their effects, it pays dividends in the future.
well-known signs of dry
“Every dollar you put into prevention, you save four more in drug and treatment costs,” explains Ware. “Most often, the ones who need treatment most lack the information on how to even access services. Teaching our clients how to navigate systems of care is an important part of our strategy at Homewood Health.”
time and memory loss.
Safe injection sites are messy, heartbreaking, and unfortunate solutions that we have been forced to implement because of our own neglect to the most troubled members of our communities. They exist because – like these clinics – we have wanted these people out of sight and mind, quietly receiving the scraps of tax dollars to just barely cover a fraction of their needs. The real question isn’t whether safe injection sites promote drug use in our neighbourhoods (they don’t), or whether they immediately begin to save lives (they do); the question is if we are going to continue to do the least we can to help our communities facing systemic issues of abuse in all forms. And at this point, we can’t n
mouth and red eyes, consuming THC often causes your heart rate to speed up, problems with bodily coordination, slower reaction
There is also evidence that shows adolescent cannabis use (specifically THC) can increase your chances of later developing psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. A study published in Human Molecular Genetics last year showed adolescent THC exposure is risky for those genetically susceptible to developing schizophrenia. More research is being carried out all the time, but as more and more places legalize cannabis, concern about THC’s long-term effect mounts. There are still many unanswered questions about cannabis and its uses: can it be used as an exit drug instead of a gateway drug as we’ve understood it to be for so long? What other compounds does it contain that could be of use to us? The more we know about this notorious, intriguing plant, the better we can make use of it, regulate it and enjoy it n 41 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
canada-china friendship series by Dan Donovan
Deepening China-Africa cooperation and boosting Africa’s development his past September, the Summit T of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was held in Beijing.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and African leaders from more than 50 countries; including 40 presidents, 10 prime ministers and the chairperson of the AU Commission, with ministerial senior officials of African countries attending the summit.
China-Africa Community with a Shared Future, and the FOCAC Beijing Action Plan, which will serve as the guide for the development of China-Africa relations in the years to come. During the summit, President Xi Jinping also met with the leaders of participating African countries on separate occasions. What’s more, China and African countries signed nearly 150 cooperation agreements of various types.
Also presented in this summit were the UN Secretary-General António Guterres and representatives of 26 international and regional organizations in Africa.The summit boasts the largest scale and highest standard among all home-based diplomatic events ever held in China with more than 3,200 Chinese and foreign participants.
The results of the summit were remarkable with the following highlights:
Themed on “China and Africa:Toward an Even Stronger Community with a Shared Future through Win-Win Cooperation”, the summit planned the future development of China-Africa relations, and drew a blueprint for China-Africa cooperation. At the summit, President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech entitled “Work Together for Common Development and a Shared Future”.
The “four-adherence” principle is: First, China values sincerity, friendship and equality, and always respects and supports Africa.
The summit adopted two outcome documents, namely, the Beijing Declaration-Toward an Even Stronger 42 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
First, President Xi Jinping emphasized the important principles for China to develop its relations with Africa, namely, a “four-adherence” principle and a “five-no” approach.
Second, China values common interests and puts friendship first in pursuing cooperation. China welcomes African countries aboard the express train of China’s development, to pursue win-win cooperation and common development. In doing so, China insists giving more
and taking less, giving before taking, and even giving without asking for return. Third, China takes a peopleoriented approach in pursuing practical cooperation with efficiency. China will continue to improve institution building, develop new ideas and expand areas of cooperation with Africa to bring cooperation to greater heights, and fully honour the promises it has made to African brothers. Fourth, China takes an open and inclusive approach to cooperation, stands ready to work with other international partners to support Africa in pursuing peace and development, and welcomes and supports all initiatives that meet Africa’s interests. The “five-no” approach means no interference inAfrican countries’pursuit of development paths that fit their national conditions; no interference in African countries’ internal affairs; no imposition of our will on African countries, no attachment of political strings to assistance to Africa; and no seeking of selfish political gains in investment and financing cooperation with Africa. China hopes this “five-no” approach could apply to other countries as they deal with African matters. Second, China-Africa relations will forge ahead towards the “six-in-one” direction, which, as President Xi
Jinping pointed out, means that China and Africa will build a community with a shared future for mankind that assumes joint responsibility; pursues win-win cooperation; delivers happiness for peoples of both China and Africa, enjoys cultural prosperity; enjoys common security; and promotes harmony between man and nature.
Africa community with a shared future in this era and will serve as a model and accumulate experience for building a community of a shared future for mankind throughout the world.
China and Africa could increase political and policy dialogue at various levels, enhance mutual understanding and support on issues involving each other’s core interests and major concerns, and boost coordination on major international and regional issues. Such efforts will enable both sides to uphold the common interests of China and Africa as well as other developing countries. Both sides could expand more areas of cooperation and tap new cooperation potentials.
China will launch these initiatives in close collaboration with African countries in the next three years and beyond to support African countries to accelerate the independent and sustainable development.
Making lives better for African people is what China aims to achieve in growing China-Africa relations; China will do more to help African countries alleviate poverty, pursue development, increase employment and income, and better the lives of African people. Both sides will enhance exchanges, mutual learning and harmonious coexistence of our civilizations, and expand people-to-people exchanges in culture and art, education, sports, and between think tanks, the media, and women and young people to strengthen the bond between the people of China and Africa. China firmly supports African countries and the African Union as well as other regional organizations in Africa in solving African issues in the African way and supports African countries to strengthen their independent capacity of safeguarding stability and peace. China will work with Africa to pursue green, low-carbon, circular and sustainable development and strengthen exchange and cooperation with Africa on areas of ecological and environmental preservation. The “six-in-one” defines the connotation, development direction and path of building a closer China-
Third, China has planned eight major initiatives to carry out cooperation with Africa.
The eight major initiatives specifically lay out the China-Africa cooperation in eight major areas including industrial capacity, infrastructure, trade facilitation, green development, capacity building, health care, peopleto-people exchanges, and peace and security. THE LEADERS OF PARTICIPATING AFRICAN COUNTRIES . . . APPRECIATED CHINA’S TANGIBLE ACTIONS TO SINCERELY HELP THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN COUNTRIES AND BELIEVED THAT THE EIGHT MAJOR INITIATIVES WILL PROVIDE NEW AND BROAD SPACE FOR AFRICA’S DEVELOPMENT.
At the same time, the eight major initiatives will promote an in-depth integration between the Belt and Road Initiative and the AU Agenda 2063, the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as well as the development strategies of African countries, which will greatly promote the China-Africa cooperation and benefit more African people. To make sure these eight initiatives are implemented on the ground, China will extend $60 billion US of financing to Africa in the form of government assistance as well as investment and financing by financial institutions and companies. In addition, for those least developed countries, heavily indebted
and poor countries, landlocked developing countries and small island developing countries in Africa that have diplomatic relations with China, the debt they have incurred in the form of interest-free Chinese government loans due to mature by the end of 2018 will be exempted. The success of the FOCAC Beijing Summit has once again demonstrated that China and Africa enjoy a firm foundation for traditional friendship,and China-Africa pragmatic cooperation is full of vitality.The FOCAC mechanism is practical and efficient, and ChinaAfrica exchanges and cooperation remain at the forefront of international cooperation with Africa. The leaders of participating African countries and international organizations spoke highly of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and they appreciated China’s tangible actions to sincerely help the development of African countries and believed that the eight major initiatives will provide new and broad space for Africa’s development. South African President and Co-Chair of the FOCAC Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa said China-Africa relations have entered a golden age. The leaders of African countries also expressed their indignation and condemnation of the irresponsible remarks on China-Africa relations made by certain forces in the world, stressing those claims that the ChinaAfrica cooperation has aggravated African debts are utterly wrong, and that fomenting dissension between China and Africa only leads to a blind alley. The FOCAC is a collective dialogue mechanism established in 2000 between China and African countries in the context of South-South cooperation. Members of this forum include China, 53 African countries that have established diplomatic relations with China, and the AU Commission. The FOCAC holds a ministerial meeting every three years, and it has once held two summits respectively in Beijing in 2006 and Johannesburg of South Africa in 2015 n 43 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
travel by Andre Gagne
Paradise awaits
at Magical Mahekal Beach Resort
‘If the sea were any closer, this room would have a waterbed,’ I say to myself. I’m looking out the bedroom window of my beach bungalow towards glistening diamond sands which kiss calm waters stretching outwards to meet the sky at the horizon.This paints a tapestry that’s at least three shades of beautiful turquoise. Birds share songs in the palm trees above and the Caribbean sun beams down a coat of warmth to cover this soothing scene. Breathing it all in I think: ‘Yes, if paradise had a heaven it has to be Mahekal Beach Resort.’ Refreshing swims,beachfront hammock snoozes, chic dining, Spanish guitar melodies, 5th Avenue shopping sprees, lush gardens and pampering spas are just a few of the things awaiting you here at Playa del Carmen’s authentic Mexican resort hotel. With 920 feet of beach on one side and the Riviera Maya jungle on the other, stepping into your thatched roof 44 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
bungalow may give you a bit of a Swiss Family Robinson feel if there weren’t so many sun-kissed bodies tanning inches away from the sandy shoes resting by your door. Of course, the Robinson’s never had accommodations this luxurious. Taking a moment to tear my eyes off the beach, I look over a room that includes lavish sleeping and sitting areas, an indoor and outdoor shower with organic Mayan-inspired soaps and shampoos, various samplings of wine and coffee atop a mini-fridge and – ‘¡Dios Mío!,’ an outdoor terrace with a personal plunge pool overlooking that dream canvass outside. Before I could fathom what else there might be to discover, one of the friendly staff delivers my hammock. Heaven is a place that has to have hammocks, I quickly decided after sliding in to sway in the sea breeze.
Of course, what would heaven be without a few angels? Mahekal has its own brigade in white ready to greet you with a smile that makes it appear they have known you for years. There to ensure your entire stay is a perfect one, they seemingly swoop down from the trees to answer any questions you may have, point you in the direction of a tasty meal or tell you all about the activities going on that day. All the while that friendly grin never leaves their faces. “We have employees here that have over 20 years of service. We are very proud of our staff. We know that they make a great difference.They know you by name; they know what you will like. It’s very personal,” said Attila Gombos, general manager of the property which opened in 1982. Back then, they only had a few bungalows you could get to via a single dirt road or the sea. Now it’s 4,500 square feet, 196 rooms, four pools and multiple dining and entertainment options. That requires a lot of angels to keep it so heavenly. Though the nearing shopping district of 5th Avenue provides a plethora of dining options, even the most finicky foodie will agree that everything your heart’s (and stomach’s) desire can be found on the resort. Pop on your flipflops and make the rounds starting with a scrumptious Mayan benedict for a breakfast found by the Infinity Pool at Los Olas. Sorry fellow Canucks, but once you’ve topped some waffles with papaya compote you may never PHOTOS: ANDRE GAGNE
go back to maple syrup. Later in the day swing by Fuego’s for some ‘Tulumstyle’ wood-burning oven potatoes and tuna salad for lunch, then return for a fish dinner. Seafood lovers will also want to make an appearance at the Catch of the Day where local fishermen pull up to the beach to meet Executive Chef Nerey. He chooses his menu right off the boat and it’s prepped there as you take in an optional ceviche class. You don’t get any fresher than that! There’s also the fisherman’s buffer dinner back at Las Olas with views of the ocean that are a feast for the eyes! Poolside drinks at Itzi’s are a must for socializing with other guests. Sip a Coco Loco or one of the resorts own wines while you take a dip and watch the sunset. Shoot a round of pool while awaiting your tasting session inside Boli’s Bar where staff will also teach you how to make the perfect margarita. Outside of the food and beverages, Mahekal offers up a variety of other ways to treat yourself over your stay. If you want to explore more of the sea life and stunning reefs, visit the Vida Aquática Dive Center for the area’s best scuba diving. It also offers kayaks and stand-up paddle board rentals along with guided snorkel tours and fishing trips. The artistic and visitors with wee ones will enjoy a hand-painted pottery lesson from resident artisan Julianna. You paint it; they bake it and your unique keepsake is ready for you in the morning to hang on your wall back home. For many, one of Mahekal’s brightest jewels gleams out from the resort’s jungle garden in the Revive Spa. Built in a round configuration in tune with the philosophies of the ancient Mayans, the spa is the bliss your body has been waiting for. After a soak in the soothing hot tub, you can select from a menu of revitalizing treatments like the Massage Angel Viel with Crystal Quartz or a nourishing facial. With so many ways to escape, Gombos
urges guests to leave the tablets and tech behind. You will find no televisions in your rooms. “Guests just want to relax, chill out. They bring their family and sit inside restaurants, by our fire pit. It’s about having a good time together. It’s not about being entertained by technology,” Gombos explained, and added that he hopes most guests will also get out and venture into some of the areas more natural wonders. A short drive away will bring you to Tulum, one of the last cities built by the Maya. Here the ruins of the Temple of the God of Wind remain as one of
the best-preserved coastal remains of this culture. Nearby is one of Mexico’s most famous centotes, The Gran. This natural reservoir of pits and caverns weaves around the jungle floor with crystal clear water spots to dip into while observing your fish and turtle companions. “Go and explore this very warm, traditional Yucatan hospitality and the cultural experiences,” said Gombos, while noting that Mahekal will be there at the end of your day with a freshly made bed and maybe a few treats inside your room. Now, watching the stars appear as I sway again in a hammock I feel I may never get up from, I swig the last bit of my glass of wine while the beach empties. I am now left with only the sound of the waves to carry me to sleep. As my eyelids flutter an angel’s voice says from beside me: “Is there anything else we can help you with today, Señor Andre?” Whatever could I possible dream of when Mahekal is my current reality? n mahekalbeachresort.com 45 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
travel by Jennifer Hartley
PHOTO: TOURISME MONTREAL/LOÏC ROMER
TIME FOR A MINI BREAK ON
the streets on Montreal
he heat is gone and now is the T perfect time to hop in the car, head down the 417 to Montreal for the
It is such an incredible idea that works.
perfect weekend getaway. Incredible food, rich culture, an awesome vibe and a plethora of things to do await you.
The app can be a bit fickle so be patient with it. It is stunning and worth the wait.
No matter if you are a Montreal veteran road tripper or are a first-time visitor, Montreal always astounds.
It runs on Friday and Saturdays until the end of December from dusk until 11 p.m.
The city is something of a paradox, a place steeped in history and yet constantly in a state of renewal.
Architecture
Walk This Way
The best way to do all of it this season is to hit the streets on foot, or on two wheels. Bring your phone, download the app Cité Mémoire and explore Old Montreal. Cité Mémoire is like a historical version of Pokémon Go. Video projections of people and historical background on who they were and what did pepper walls of old buildings, trees or towers. You meet characters from Montreal’s history and hear their stories or, in the case of Leonard Cohen, hear his music as acrobats from Cirque du Soleil dance in a video projection on a clocktower on the water. 46 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
Walk along St. Jacques Street and look up. Phenomenal doesn’t even begin to cover the visual feast that awaits you. Opulent, historical buildings that have been transformed into cafés, restaurants or hotels all the while retaining their original beauty are everywhere. The traditional feud between two of Montreal’s founding heritages (English and French) has resulted in fascinating architecture. In squares across Montreal, there are buildings that are steeped in French heritage. Take Place d’Armes for example. On one side of the square is the Notre Dame Basilica, while on the other stands the former headquarters for the Bank of Montreal, a symbol of anglo power. Be sure to check out the two statues in the square, the French Poodle and the English Pug. Worth the trip just to see them.
Bicycle Tour
You might not notice it at first if you are not a cyclist, but Montreal has a fantastic bike route system throughout the city. Take advantage of it. If you don’t have a two-wheeler with you, head up to the bike/café rental shop Spade and Palacio. They rent good, solid bikes that are appropriate for all cycling levels. And you can grab cup of java while you are there. You can spin around town on your own but consider taking one of their tours. The Beyond the Bike Lanes tour takes you to secret hideaways, where locals have taken over alleys and created ecological havens, oasis after oasis. Learn about the history of neighbourhoods, their quirkiness and really get to know the city. This is not a tourist trap kind of thing. It is a look at genuine Montreal by people who love their city. They offer foot tours (including an awesome food excursion) as well so be sure to check
Notre Dame Basilica
out the Spade and Palacio website for what they have to offer.
Street Art
Every year, in June, there is an international public art festival where artists from around the world and come and paint masterpieces on the walls of buildings. The artwork stays up for years, which means you can see masterpieces from years gone by, long after the festival has ended. There is a map available of this outdoor, open-air museum. Some are outstanding, some are eclectic, and others are just plain out of this world. Celebrate the creativity and the democratization of urban art where building façades become canvasses, and it is breathtaking.
Sleep
A recurring theme in life, it must happen and when it must, you might as well do it luxuriously. Hit the hay at the W. It is centrally located, hip and oozes coolness. While it attracts young, wealthy, eclectic clientele, it is reasonably priced for its location, which is perfectly central. Right from the time you walk into the W lobby, you feel uber cool. The rooms are large, the amenities fantastic and the beds are dreamy. They have magnificent suites for families (a bit of a splurge of course) but the rooms are equally perfect. The hotel prides itself on providing outstanding customer care, and it excels at that. It will cater to your every whim.
The gym is fantastic so if you feel the need to burn off some calories or energy, you are covered.
Eat
Everything about Montreal is decadent and that extends to your coffee cup and plate. Roam the streets from café to café for pastries and delectables. There is a vibrant café culture in the city waiting to be explored. Excellent coffee choices or espresso bars are tucked away in local neighbourhoods (little Italy) or located in the heart of downtown, such as the Crew Collective and Café. There is no question it is one of the most beautiful cafés in the world. It is ornate, has cathedral, gothic-style mosaic ceilings that will take your breath away. Originally a bank, its space is now a collective workspace and café. You will be inspired to write a book or do something or maybe just gawk. Another coffee pitstop worth making is Tommy Café on Notre-Dame. The lush, plant interior is very ecologically kumbaya in its feel. For more substantial food, try hitting McGill Street. It is like a foodie heaven. Boris Bistro is amazing but the whole McGill Street is a food mecca, with restaurant after restaurant lining the street. While I am always wary of hotel bars and restaurants because they are usually overpriced for what you get, W’s restaurant Nom Nom is fantastic.
Crew Collective and Café
The Montreal Observation Wheel
It has Asian flare and the dumplings, all of them, without exception, are inspired and flavourful. The breakfast buffet has a Euro feel that is supremely satisfying as well. For something stronger, check out its bar, Bartizen, which specializes in Quebec gin concoctions.
More Stuff to do
If you like getting a good look at a city, take a ride on the Montreal Observation Wheel. It offers incredible views of the city. They are staples in major cities such as London, UK, Orlando, Las Vegas, Dubai, New York, Osaka and now, there is one in beautiful Montreal. Ziplining. Yes, ziplining, in downtown Montreal might sound odd but it is there. In fact, it is the first urban zipline circuit in Canada. MTL Zipline offers you a thrilling experience while discovering Montreal from a bird’s eye view. Need more walking? Stroll along the Lachine Canal to the Atwater Market. The Lachine Canal runs 14.5 kilometres from the Old Port to Lake Saint-Louis. The canal is more than an inland waterway, as it is also an accessible urban park that is brimming with rich history. Great place to run, if that is your thing. Bottom line, for these last few weeks of walkable weather, head to Montreal and bask in beauty, history and Montreal’s joie de vivre n mtl.org
47 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
investigative feature by Hilary Thomson
Ralph Goodale and the good-ole boys club: Misogyny is alive and well at the Regina Police Service
in better and avoid further harassment based on her gender. Heather Gray
here has been a lot in the news the T past few years about harassment and bullying in the RCMP. In 2017, more than 3,100 women working for the RCMP won a $100-million class action law suit and an apology from RCMP Commissioner Bob Paulson for harassment faced for 40 years. “You came to the RCMP wanting to personally contribute to your community and we failed you.We hurt you. For that, I am truly sorry,” Paulson said in a news conference in Ottawa in 2016. The RCMP now faces a $1.1-billion lawsuit over bullying and harassment claims also dating back decades. Thousands of male and female RCMP officers, staff and even volunteers have 48 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
come forward seeking compensation for the harm they endured while employed in Canada’s national police force. Unfortunately, harassment and bullying in police forces is not limited to the RCMP. Former member of the Regina Police Service (RPS) Heather Gray says she has been suffering for many years because of the treatment she faced while employed with the RPS. In 1981, Gray became the first female police officer in the Moose Jaw Police Service. Even early on in her career Gray faced the difficulties of being a woman in a male-dominated field. When she was offered a job with the RPS in 1983 she hoped that going from a service where she was the only woman to the RPS, which had 11 female officers, would allow her to fit
“It was a course of concern throughout my career path,” she said. “I was always on guard for something to happen.” Gray was a valued member of the RPS, working as a patrol member for years in a high violent crime inner city area. In 1992 she became a hostage/ crisis negotiator and was active in fund raising and organizing training from the LAPD and FBI at SWAT schools in Regina. As an eight-person team it responded to 55 calls a year that involved high-risk warrant and hostage taking situations. “I was very proud of that and very thankful to be on the team.” In 1996, Gray gave birth to her son and five months later joined the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) of the RPS in the child abuse unit. She trained as a forensic interviewer and dealt directly with children who had been abused. PHOTO: JACKIE HALL PHOTOGRAPHY
“I was a brand-new mother and had a full case-load of child abuse.” A few months into her employment in the child abuse unit, Gray felt that one of her superiors, Sgt. Tom Griffin had put a target on her back. She remembered Griffin as someone who was emotionally unstable and would frequently lose his cool at work. Gray said Griffin tried to undermine her work and bully her in the workplace. It only got worse in the next year as he enlisted others in her chain of command to assist him in making her life miserable. “Something was happening every day. I couldn’t focus on my work.” Everything came to a head in 1998 when a friend of Gray’s in the patrol division of the RPS came to her and her partner at the time, Christine Tell, about a group of officers cheating on the police promotional exam. Her friend didn’t want to go to the authorities herself because she was afraid it would be too easy for the cheaters to know it was her as she worked with them on their patrol team. Heather and Christine agreed to report the incident and went to Sgt. Tim Hesse in Internal Affairs. She mentioned to him that she was concerned the issue would not be addressed because the inspector in charge of Internal Affairs, Garry Hoedel, was close with officers who cheated on the exam. “Tim assured me that he would look into it,” Gray said. A few hours later, as Gray was walking to her car in the parking garage of the Regina Police Department, she was attacked by Hoedel. She said he backed her up against the cold wall of the parking garage, yelling: “Who the fuck do you think you are!” “I was terrified,” she said. “He was so aggressive and outweighed me by 50 pounds.” Gray says after he let her go she went straight to the RPS Police Chief,
She had disrupted Hoedel’s ‘boys club’ and she was going to pay for it. The men who cheated on the exam where part of the RPS hockey team and were highly respected in the service. . Calvin Johnston and told him what happened. She was very concerned because she knew that in just a few short weeks Hoedel would be coming over into her chain of command as the inspector in charge of the CID. “All [Johnston] did was put his hand on the small of my back, guide me out of his office and say, ‘It’s a good thing Garry doesn’t hold a grudge’,” She remembered. Gray said she could see what was happening. She had disrupted Hoedel’s ‘boys club’ and she was going to pay for it. The men who cheated on the exam where part of the RPS hockey team and were highly respected in the service. “They were treated like gods,” Gray said. Her nightmare came true in January 1999 when Hoedel became an inspector in the CID. The Superintendent of the CID, Vernon Forbes was also in Hoedel’s gang and was well known as a loose canon. “I call him the arch-bully. He had all this power and did great harm to many people.” Former RPS officer Marv Taylor knows the abuse that Forbes was capable of all too well. In June 1976, Forbes allowed a police dog to attack Taylor while they were working together in the RPS canine unit. Despite being accused of using unnecessary force with police dogs many times, Forbes was promoted through the ranks until he reached superintendent of the CID. “He was accountable to no one,”Taylor said. “Everyone was afraid of Forbes because they thought it would come back on them. He caused a lot of issues, but no one would address it.” Because Taylor questioned his actions, Forbes undermined his authority, making his job in the CID as difficult as possible.
“He wanted to weed me out because he had his own people he wanted in,” Taylor said. In December 1998, Taylor was placed on progressive discipline by Forbes who also threatened him by telling him that he was going to have a “very uncomfortable year.” With Forbes and Hoedel in charge, Gray had a similar experience while working in the child abuse unit. She was frequently given conflicting tasks which she was unable to complete. When she asked questions, she was deemed insubordinate. Eventually she was placed under an unnecessary work order, causing her to resign from the hostage negotiation team and putting restraints on her that made it impossible for her to advance her career.“I couldn’t imagine anything worse,” she said. Both Gray and Taylor said the last few years of their employment with the RPS as the worst in their lives. “I was a physical and mental wreck,”Taylor said. “I was on the verge of a nervous break down and was two steps away from suicide.” Taylor added that all the bullying and harassment was reported to the Police Chief Calvin Johnston, but nothing constructive was done. Thankfully for Taylor when he retired in 1999 he had served just more than 25 years with the RPS allowing him to receive his partial pension. Gray was not so lucky and left the force in 2001 with nothing but severe psychological scars from years of abuse. “This should have never happened. I was ruined.” Gray and Taylor have both been diagnosed with PTSD. Gray has also been diagnosed with several other mental illnesses including anxiety, depression and agoraphobia. Her situation has only worsened the 49 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
It is well known that Goodale is friends with former RPS Police Chief Calvin Johnston who ignored both Gray and Taylor’s reports of abuse in the late 1990s. past 20 years as she fought to get compensation for what she endured. In 2005, there was a ruling in her favour to receive money and treatment from the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) because of psychological injury. In 2007, the decision was reversed after what she believes was tampering in her file by individuals within the RPS and people high up in the Saskatchewan Party. She was told by the people at the WCB that after two years she had been compensated enough for her PTSD. “The bullying and intimidation continued even after I left the police force,” she said. “It’s like being raped again and again.” The pairs’ lawyer, Bob Hycran believes there is no doubt harassment and bullying were rampant in the RPS during Gray and Taylor’s time and that they deserve compensation. He also believes the RPS interfered with their WCB hearings, ensuring that they did not receive a pay-out for what they endured. Hycran said he knew Gray when he was a young lawyer back in the 1990s. Gray and Taylor met with the MP for Regina-Wascana, Ralph Goodale, back in 2014 to discuss their case. At the time Goodale seemed sympathetic but said he felt he didn’t have the power to do anything about it as an MP. A letter was sent to Goodale, who is now the Minister of Public Safety, at the end of August to remind him of the 2014 meeting and ask him to conduct a third-party investigation into the RPS, similar to what he did for the abuses in the RCMP. “In light of previous conduct of the RPS/Board of Commissioners we have little confidence of a fair unbiased ‘review of these offences involving former senior RPS officers,” Hycran wrote. 50 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
It is well known that Goodale is friends with former RPS Police Chief Calvin Johnston who ignored both Gray and Taylor’s reports of abuse in the late 1990s. The letter has not received a response and Goodale’s press secretary Scott Bardsley told Ottawa Life Magazine that they, “do not comment on private meetings or letters received from constituents.” Bardsley did say that the Minister of Public Safety only has jurisdiction over the RCMP, not over 300 other police forces in the country. In January 2017, Gray delivered a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau outlining her abuses and asking for his help. “Please don’t put this off,” she wrote. “As a caring family man do right by my family.” Gray has received no response to this letter. Despite numerous calls and emails, Ottawa Life Magazine was not able to get a response from the prime minister about why there has been know acknowledgement of the letter.
Hycran said he believes bullying of officers is a daily occurrence and something that is a feature of police services. “You would be shocked to find out how many police officers have been destroyed.” In 2016, the Saskatchewan Party introduced legislation that would insure all Saskatchewan employees suffering from PTSD would receive benefits from the WCB. Key to this legislation was “presumptive coverage” that would assume all occupations leave employees in a position where they could suffer from PTSD. The bill also allows coverage to be retroactive. For some reason this legislation has not made a difference for either Gray or Taylor. “Good things are happening, but they are not translating into good things for Marv or Heather,” Hycran said. Hycran believes that a true, unbiased investigation into harassment, bullying and corruption in the RPS is needed. A lot of attention has been placed on the RCMP, yet little is being done to investigate the atrocities that occurred within the RPS that have caused significant hardship for Gray, Taylor and possibly more police officers.
Gray and Taylor met with current Police Chief Evan Bray in May of this year, and as follow-up to the meeting he sent them a letter advising them to be patient as “these things take time.” Executive Officer of the RPS Lauralee Davies confirmed while they are looking in to the allegations, “it may take some time because it was so long ago.”
Gray is looking for compensation for her injuries and the pension that she was unable to collect because she was forced out of her position prematurely.
Both Gray and Taylor feel as though they have been nothing but patient.
While Taylor is in a better situation financially, he too would like compensation as well as an apology from the RPS for allowing the abuse to continue for years. Taylor hopes the same consideration and concern that is being given to RCMP officers be translated to local police departments.
Gray’s situation is becoming increasingly desperate as she has had to liquidate all her savings to provide for herself and her son. She is also struggling immensely with her mental health. “I have no choice but to die,” Gray said, her voice cracking. “Nothing has gone in our favour and everyone has stepped on our necks.”
“In October of this year I should have finished my 35-year career and been on my way to a happy retirement,” she said, her voice wobbling.
“The RCMP have come to terms with it,” he said.“It’s been 20 years of fighting. That really takes a toll on you.” n
pharmacare series by Julie White and Keith Newman
National public drug plan makes sense and cents Earlier this year, the House of Commons health committee released a report recommending a national public drug plan for Canadians. It proposed that prescription medication be treated the same as doctors and hospitals — as a public service to be cost-shared by the federal and provincial governments. Now the Advisory Council on Implementation on National Pharmacare led by former Ontario Health Minister Eric Hoskins is looking at how to move forward, holding meetings across the country and asking for opinions about what a drug plan should look like. To create a fair, healthy and affordable plan, we need to ensure that the following principles are implemented:
Universal
Our current patchwork provision of drugs is like this and is failing us. A national drug plan should be funded by government, following the same principle as the provision of doctors and hospitals under the Canada Health Act.
Accessible
A drug plan should be accessible to everyone. We support the elimination of co-pays and deductibles for prescription drugs, because those who can’t afford them can’t get the drugs they need. (CANADIAN) WOULD NO LONGER
A universal plan is fair because it covers everyone equally.
PAY INSURANCE COMPANIES
It means moving away from the existing 113,000 private plans and 70 public plans that cover people differently.
ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS TO MANAGE
Instead, expanded provincial and territorial public drug plans would receive federal funding and oversight to ensure the same standard of service across the country.
Even small payments have been shown to prevent people from getting their drugs.
It means that everyone is covered lifelong, regardless of age, where you work or where you live.
Public
Public health care has been shown repeatedly to provide better health care at a lower cost than for-profit private health systems. The U.S. approach to health care provided by private forprofit companies and paid for by a mix of insurance plans, individuals and government leads to substandard health results and costs more than public health care.
THEIR PROFITS OR THE THOUSANDS OF WORK-BASED PLAN.
Ten per cent of Canadians are unable to take drugs prescribed for them because they can’t afford either the entire cost or the co-pays required by public and work-based plans. Some end up in emergency rooms and some even die. Canadians pay more than one-quarter of the cost of drugs out of their own pockets.
A Canada-wide plan would allow effective negotiations for lower prices with the drug companies, backed by the power of access to the whole population. This system is used effectively in many countries to obtain much lower prices for drugs than we pay in Canada. Also, we would no longer pay insurance companies their profits or the administrative costs to manage thousands of work-based plans. Every independent economic study has found a national public drug plan would be cheaper with estimated savings of $4- to $11-billion.
Independent, Safe and Effective
The list of drugs to be covered (the formulary) must be decided independently from the financial interests of pharmaceutical companies. Currently these companies influence both the approval of new drugs and the prescribing practices of doctors. They also produce and promote drugs that offer no improvement over drugs already in use but are more expensive. This influence leads to ineffective drugs, a waste of money, over-prescribing and harmful side effects. The evaluation and approval of drugs and guidelines for prescribing them must be independent of pharmaceutical companies to ensure that drugs are safe, effective and prescribed appropriately.
We don’t pay to see a doctor or go to a hospital, and drugs are just as essential.
Every other country that provides public health care for doctors and hospitals, also includes a national public drug plan.
Affordable
It’s high time Canada followed suit n
A national public drug plan would be less expensive than our patchwork of many different private and public plans.
Julie White and Keith Newman are board members with the Canadian Health Coalition 51 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
homes by Jonathan Marshall
PREPARE FLOORED
to be
OTTAWA IS A HARDY CITY THAT DOESN’T SHY AWAY WHEN THE WEATHER TURNS SOUR. WE KNOW THAT THE SECRET TO SURVIVING THESE WINTERS IS LAYERS, PREPARATION, AND HAVING THE RIGHT MATERIALS AT THE READY. IF ANYONE IN THIS CITY UNDERSTANDS THAT, IT’S CONCRETE FUSION.
by
52 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
CONCRETE FUSION
D
anuta Askew is a woman determined to make her mark in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario’s construction and trades industry. Since 1997 she has owned and operated other businesses in the health and beauty field, to landscaping. Along with her two sons, Zack and Adam, she began Concrete Fusion, which specializes in repairing damaged concrete and resurfacing garage floors. It has remained a familyowned business since it’s beginning in 2010. “We continually strive to offer our customers the very best by constantly sourcing new equipment and technologies — with efficiency being paramount to our process,” explains Donata Askew. Concrete Fusion has built its strong and well-deserved reputation thanks to its superior customer service. Working alongside architects, engineers, interior designers, and general contractors on a multitude of projects, they deliver and install epoxy flooring, polished concrete, moisture testing and mitigation, and self-leveling concrete services residentially, commercially, and at the industrial level. “The job is only done once the customer is satisfied,” the Askew team agree. “We start from the ground up, providing complete support and education from material selection to specification, from installation, to post-installation follow-ups, and maintenance consulting.” Concrete Fusion works to ensure the best results. They discuss all options with their customers first, including different options of floor finishes, coating systems, and budget, to help personalize the space according to the customers’ preferences. A company, for example, can choose to have their logo incorporated into the flooring of their facility or accent borders, or have unique focal points in the floor using custom colours and blends. The in-house installation team is highly professional and ensures the highest quality in the work they do and the best customer service that they deliver. As specialists in concrete floor
repair, they deliver high-quality results by using the best epoxy resins and polished concrete products available to ensure lasting results, as renewal is always a part of the equation. “It’s a significant factor for people who own their own home,” says Zack Askew. “We want people to feel comfortable on every aspect of their property and help them realize that their garage is for more than just parking their car.” Concrete Fusion has completed projects for a multitude of businesses including veterinary clinics, dental and medical practitioner’s practises, aviation, transportation, commercial, retail, education, fire and public safety, food and beverage processing in restaurants, and manufacturing. CONCRETE FUSION WAS VERY PROFESSIONAL AND EFFICIENT. THEY OFFERED VARIOUS OPTIONS FOR OUR FLOORS. EVERYONE WHO HAS SEEN OUR NEW OFFICE FLOORS HAVE COMPLIMENTED THEM. WE ARE VERY HAPPY WITH THE END RESULTS.
— LYNN B.
These services include acid staining, coating and adhesive removal, concrete floor finishing, concrete polishing, concrete leveling, pouring new concrete, moisture control, and epoxy installation.The floor is the first thing you notice when you walk into a room, and Concrete Fusion wants to make sure it’s the last thing on your mind you have to worry about! One of the most unique services they offer, is providing certified moisture test and reporting as well as applying moisture mitigation systems to ensure delimitation and other floor issues don’t arise to commercial clients. “We offer certified concrete moisture testing, recognized nationwide, by the International Concrete Repair Institute,” says Zack Askew. “Which could cost facilities lots of money in the future if the proper steps aren’t taken when installing these sorts of large floors.” In a country like Canada
where the humidity works against us in all seasons, it’s not surprising so many people have trouble with this. Another specialty service Concrete Fusion offers is polished concrete. It’s a natural, eco-friendly option which draws light into a room and its reflective properties create a sense of bright, inspiring energy. In fact, all of Concrete Fusion’s products are eco-friendly in the sense they absorb heat from the sun throughout the day and slowly release it at night to help heat your home. Customers pouring a new concrete floor can choose to add in floor heating to their polished concrete, which, unlike other flooring options, ensures an efficient release of heat. Who knew interior design could play such an important role in our hydro bills? Concrete Fusion partners with many local businesses including Garage Perfect, A-Z Interlock Design & Build, Duron Services, and Lafarge, to name a few. They also work with both local and international associations and organizations for support, training, and memberships. These include: International Concrete Repair Institute, Canadian Construction Association, Ottawa Construction Association, Building Envelope Council Ottawa Region, and Ottawa Young Construction Leaders. “You can’t operate for as long as we have without playing a role in the community,” says Adam Askew. The proof is in their reach: they service customers from Prince Edward County to Petawawa, from Hawkesbury to Cornwall, and of course, Ottawa. They provide competent and affordable flooring services to these areas thanks to their manufacturers, suppliers, and highly-trained, hard-working team members. If you want to bring your home, business, garage, or working area to the next level, Concrete Fusion is the place to go — prepare to be floored n concretefusion.ca 53 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
education by Daniel Hurtubise
Saint Paul University:
170 years of dedication to academic learning, pushing the boundaries in education and inspiring young minds to “be the face of change. hen reflecting on our history, W we must mention the important role played by the University of Ottawa, the St. Joseph Scholasticate and the Saint Paul University Seminary.
The story of Saint Paul University begins in 1848, when Fr. JosephEugène-Bruno Guigues, the first bishop of the Diocese of Bytown (Ottawa), founded the area’s first bilingual college, the College of Bytown, and opened it to some 60 young men. The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate were entrusted with its management in the hope of bringing faith, mutual understanding and communication to a community marred by poverty and unrest due to its Irish immigrant and French-Canadian communities competing for jobs in the timber industry. The college grew quickly; in 1866, it was granted a civil charter, followed by a pontifical charter in 1889. When Bytown’s name was changed to Ottawa, the college wanted its name to reflect that of the city; therefore, it became the College of Ottawa. The approval of a rewritten civil charter in 1933 led to the institution being officially known as the University of Ottawa. The oldest and largest bilingual post-secondary institution in Canada, the University of Ottawa has grown steadily and is now ranked one of Canada’s top universities.
Located in Archville (Ottawa East) and dating back to 1885, the St. Joseph Scholasticate, later known as the Deschâtelets Building, was home to the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. It was the first Oblate Scholasticate in North America, as well as being the oldest and largest historical institution in the eastern part of Ottawa. It became the departure point for many young Oblate priests preparing for missionary life around the world. The Oblates who lived there also served as professors and administrators for both the University of Ottawa and Saint Paul University, until the community moved to Richelieu, Que., in 2014. Arriving on March 27, 1937, Fr. JeanCharles Laframboise, accompanied by eight seminarians and designated personnel, entered the newly built Saint Paul University Seminary on Main Street. It was to serve as the headquarters for the ecclesiastical faculties of the University of Ottawa as well as a training location for future priests. It became an integral part of Saint Paul University in 1965 and was used as a seminary from 1937 to 2010. It now houses most of the central administration offices of Saint Paul University.
Youof can be the face of change! he face change!
Saint Paul University (1848) is the founding college of the University of Ottawa, with which unding college of the University of since Ottawa, with which and on a human scale, it offers programs in social it has been federated 1965. Bilingual ngual and oncommunication, a human scale, itcounselling offers programs in social and psychotherapy, canon law, public ethics, conflict studies, chotherapy, canon law, public ethics, conflict philosophy, human relations, andstudies, theology. ology.
ustpaul.ca
54 OTTAWALIFE FALL 2018
The University of Ottawa became one of the main institutions of higher learning in Canada. However, this growth was accompanied by increased financial pressures and needs that had to be dealt with to insure its future. Therefore, in 1965, the “old” university disappeared, and two ‘new’ universities came into being. The first was named Saint Paul University; it retained both its civil and canonical charters. The second, created by the provincial government of Ontario and named the University of Ottawa, retained most of the land and buildings. The two universities became a federated complex and agreed to share existing faculties and schools. The ecumenical character of Saint Paul University offers an open environment where all can grow and discover a place in society. Dr. Chantal Beauvais, appointed in 2009 as the university’s first female rector, has inspired a new direction for the university as a spiritual, engaged and human academic institution offering both professional training and teaching. As a bilingual institution aware of its special mission, the university strives to provide a different student experience as well as contribute to the quality of academic training and Christian culture. Supported by a dedicated teaching and administrative staff, a renowned library collection and a strong academic success program, it offers students from around the world the customized services they need to succeed in their academic endeavours and to “be the face of change” in a world that is constantly evolving n Daniel Hurtubise is an assistant archivist at Saint Paul University
ustpaul.ca
About Our Industry
• Approximately 97 percent of Canadian natural gas and crude oil is transported by pipelines. • The oil and gas sector, directly and indirectly, employs approximately 740,000 people in Canada (for comparison,
Canada’s 20 or so manufacturing sectors collectively employ about 1.7 million people).
• Our sector generated over 10 percent of Canada’s GDP in 2016 (compared to manufacturing sectors at 11 percent),
and currently has one major export partner for its oil and gas – the U.S.A (at 97 percent and 100 percent, respectively). • Canadian oil production is expected to grow over 30 percent through 2035 (from 4.2 million to 5.6 million barrels
per day).
FACT:
FACT:
Almost 75 percent of Canada’s energy demand is currently met by natural gas and oil.
Only 3.6 percent of the world’s energy was derived from renewables in 2017, while over 57 percent came from oil and natural gas.
The International Energy Agency projects that by 2040, the world will need 32 percent more energy. Globally consumption is forecasted to grow 12 percent for oil and 46 percent for natural gas through 2040.
Pipelines are necessary to deliver fuel for Canadians to heat their homes, drive their cars and travel by bus, ship, train, and airplane.
FACT: FACT: FACT:
About 1.3 billion barrels of oil are moved by pipelines each year, with a 99.9 percent safety record.
Over 3000 “integrity” digs (excavation of a section of pipeline for inspection) were done in 2017.
In 2015, 67 percent of natural gas and liquids incidents occurred in facilities, not on pipeline routes.
Over 36,000 km of “inspection runs” were conducted in 2017 using small submarine-like devices which travel inside a pipeline to diagnose potential issues.
FACT: FACT: FACT:
FACT:
FACT:
Oil sands greenhouse gas emissions decreased 42 percent per barrel between 1990 and 2017.
Less than 10 percent of Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions and only 0.15 percent of worldwide emissions come from our oil and gas sector.
Our industry uses many reclamation techniques to reduce and eliminate a pipeline’s environmental footprint and return the pipeline route to its natural condition.
FACT:
Did You Know A train would have to be 5,800 cars or 102 km long to move the 4.1 million barrels of crude oil transported by pipelines in Canada every day!
www.pipeline.ca *With information from the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association, Natural Resources Canada, BP, and other industry sources.