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EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006

’m always stunned by the aura thatsurrounds Harriet Winspear… there’s somethingethereal about this great lady. Dr. Ollie and I werethrilled to attend her 102nd birthday bash. I had toremind myself to curb my enthusiasm: Go easy on

the handshake, and resist bear hugs. Organizer QuincyBrown recruited a long-time friend of Harriet’s, IdaPound, from San Francisco to regale us with tales aboutthe old days. Thanks to Ida’s wonderful command of theEnglish language and her sense of humour, it was anabsolute joy to listen to her.

Harriet and her first husband, Harry Snowball, wereliving in the Robertson Manor when he passed away.Francis Winspear was also a resident and, after a fewyears, Harriet became Mrs. Winspear and the rest ishistory.

All in all, it was a wonderful evening. It was held—appropriately—in the Harriet Winspear room of theFaculty Club. Former Reform MP Debra Grey was avery polished MC, befitting a long time politician. Dr.Ollie and I sat with Tom and Shirley Graham, and DickShuhany with wife Scott.

I can hardly wait for Harriet’s 103rd birthday bash. I’llbet there will be one...if she can squeeze it in betweentrain trips.

The municipal brouhaha between a numberof smaller towns and Fort McLeod about where thegovernment is going to build the Mounted Policetraining centre reminded me that I have strong—butvery old—ties to the area. My grandfather, Dr. WilliamForbes, joined the Northwest Mounted Police therearound 1895. My father was born in the Fort and usedto tell me tales of growing up with the local Indianswho lived nearby. Years later, when we were buying ahorse for our Bowness acreage, I met some of hisboyhood friends as Dad went from tent to tent at theCalgary Stampede.

My grandfather left the Mounties and moved toCalgary to open a medical practice, but died oftuberculosis around 1914.

None of this has anything to do with the municipalfight—but it gave me a chance to let you know that myfamily has been proudly Albertan for 111 years.

A personal rant: I’d like to meet the genius atShaw Cable who decided to move the Golf Channelfrom channel 39 to channel 144. I’d like to know whythe genius thinks I would be more interested in out-dated movies than the drama of the most popularindividual sport in the world. As it is, my “triple tier”cable package gives me access to more than 50channels—most of which I never watch—but it waswhat I had to buy to get channel 39. My Shaw bill,including the Internet, is about 90 bucks a month.

So now, in order to watch the Golf Channel, I have toget a digital box from Shaw. I can buy a rebuilt forabout $200 or new for about $250, or rent it for $11.95

a month. Not only will I get the golf, I’ll have access toeven more channels I will never watch.

This is a blatant money grab. When the Golf Channeloutbid ABC for a third of the PGA broadcast rights,starting with the 2007 season, it decided to broadcast indigital. This does not mean “receive” in digital. So itcould have stayed where it was. But no...Shaw saw anopportunity to the give viewers a wedgie. Sure, I’ll seesome tournaments on CBS or NBC, but I’ll miss all theopening ceremonies, the news conferences, most of theChampions and LPGA Tours, and other stuff that golferstalk about around the water cooler.

I hear that hooking up a digital box is complicated, andnot all cables can handle the system. Its use is restrictedto just one TV, and you can only video tape what you arewatching.

Shaw is holding golf enthusiasts hostage. It’s not as ifwe can switch cable companies. Fans are rightly teed off.Let’s rise up and smite the cable giant.

Craig Brososky has left his normal practiceas a physiotherapist to concentrate on more complicatedcases. He contracts to insurance companies and/or theirlawyers to evaluate the extent of client disabilities, anddetermine the length of time an individual could be out ofthe workforce and collecting a salary. This may soundlike the insurance companies trying to weasel out ofpaying, but my experience is they don’t mind paying ifit’s a legitimate claim. Taking time to do comprehensivetests is fair to both parties.

Being a Type 2 diabetic, I’m always interestedin anything that helps the cause. The 9th AnnualAlberta Diabetes Foundation’s fundraiser, A Night toRemember Gala & Auction, will be held at The WestinHotel on Friday, October 20th.

Lynn Mandel, wife of Mayor Stephen, has acceptedthe role of honorary chair, and Ron Symic of MorgexInsurance is chairing the illustrious organizing committee.

Diabetes now affects one in 20 people. So help find acure. Call Darlene at 447.1451 for tickets—table of 10is $2,750.00 and individual tickets are $275.00.

Just a reminder to get your tickets for thebest darn social event in town. The ConcordiaUniversity College Grande Masque Ball is on Saturday,October 21st. This very classy evening is back in theEmpire Ballroom at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald—aperfect backdrop for the ladies in their spectaculargowns and the men in their tuxes. The beautiful masksare keepers as decorative art pieces. Concordia’s ownDr. Marilyn Westbury and her ever popular hubby Dr.Bob are the honorary chairs who have combined theirtalents with Lynn Mandel and Pat Warmington. A lotof fun can be had. See you there.

Faithful reader Frank Gilligan caught me inan “oops.” I must have lent my brain to a friend when I

said that thepremier’sfather, PhilKlein, was aboxer. I knowfull-well hewas a wrestler.It turns outthat Mr.Gilligan was a1957 OptimistGoldenGloves finalistso he should know. Many thanks.

The 12th Annual Laurel Awards featuredDr. Indira Samarasekera, president of the Universityof Alberta as the keynote speaker. She described theevent as “...unique in Canada” for its recognition ofinnovation and creativity in the not-for-profit sector.Winner of this year’s gold award was The BoyleMcCauley Health Centre for its dental clinic whichresponds to the needs of low-income, inner-city folks.The awards, sponsored by Duncan & Craig LLP, are apet project of senior partner Sol Rolingher—one of thevertebrae in the backbone of Edmonton.

Ray Nelson is a hometown hero in the city ofLloydminster. The founder of Nelson Lumber washonoured for his many years of service to thecommunity and his successes in business. There wasmuch praise for his damn-the-torpedoes, head-downway of getting things done. The stretch of Highway 16that goes through the centre of town has been namedRay Nelson Drive. When the mayor told him the newsRay quipped, “What makes you think I wouldn’t put upa toll gate?”

Former Deputy Prime Minister Don Mazankowskirecounted meeting many times with Ray whom, I gather,was influential in getting the first upgrader for Lloyd.

Ray’s other claim to fame is that—at 85—he’s theoldest living heart transplant patient in Canada. Heartsurgeon Dr. Dennis Modry pointed out that Raygetting his heart at the age of 79 has opened the doorfor many other older patients to receive tranplants.Surgeons are now using older hearts that before weretossed out.

At the luncheon, I sat with Phil Klein, Cal Nichols,lawyer Doug Goss, realtor Terry Kilburn, JohnBurton of Springwood Developments Inc., and FrankProto and his wife. ✔

Additional reporting by Edmontonians staff.

Call Muggsy Forbes at 780.482.4545 or e-mail mforbes@edmontonians.com

II

FUNNYpompous & unfair

By Muggsy ForbesNo bear hugs for Harriet

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Harriet Winspear with Gary MacPherson

EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006 3

Proof____3_______________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________

nd you actually have to drinkthe wine!” chuckles Sara Parsur.“Sample it,” she amends, withno slur to the famed Okanagan

appellations intended. The issue, it seems, is thatthere are just so many of these liquid diversions tobe quaffed as one scans the lakeshores, glass inhand, for suitable retirement and recreationalproperties.

“And they’re taking over,” chimes in BC-bornPam Bannister, suppressing a mild nostalgia forher fruit scavenging escapades of recklessgirlhood.

These two chatty librarians of no distant vintageare among the growing crop of recreation-seekingAlbertans currently discovering that, in today’sOkanagan agro-playground, apple orchards areout; vines are the rustic toy of choice.

“We’ve definitely made that transition, and it’snot a myth,” confirms former-EdmontonianMatthew Hay, project director of The Veranacondominium project in Penticton and president ofRivendell Homes. “I’m watching apple orchardsget ripped out on a daily basis and grapes getplanted in their stead. The wine industry is a sexyindustry. There’s also more money in it.

“People love to go on their wine tours andeverybody is a closet connoisseur in these winetasting shops in their sandals and black socks andHawaiian shirts. You know: ‘Yes, I can certainlytaste the oaky flavour in this.’ People just reallyenjoy that. You can’t get that out of an appleorchard. It still maintains that country idyllic feeland viewscape of the rolling orchard or vineyardbut, in addition, it’s bringing the high level ofattractiveness of a wine area.”

Far from provoking controversy, thetransformation of the landscape has been widelyembraced for the boost it provides to tourism. It’sall part of an ongoing, semi-official process thathas oft been termed the “rebranding” of theOkanagan as ‘Napa Valley North’.

Is there substance to this lofty nomenclature?Penticton-based Keith Bevington of RE/MAXFront Street Realty takes us back to the seeds ofthe rebranding adventure:

“I was president of the Chamber of Commercein 1996,” he recounts. “We had a look at what wasgoing on in Napa, and I went down there myself.We built a wine centre here which was the first oneprobably in Canada.”

Recently, Penticton’s British Columbia WineCentre has undergone a high profile $1.3 millionexpansion as a result of the huge increase inproduction and the need to satisfy Vintners QualityAssurance licence stipulations that every VQAwine available in the province should be displayed.

“Our sales are up considerably,” says Bevington.“When we opened the first wine centre in the late1990s, there were only about 30 wineries in BC.Now, there are about 130. The fall wine festivalhere is among the top 100 attractions of theAmerican Bus Tour Association. That’s bringing alot of people into the area that wouldn’t have comehere before.”

Somewhere in the maturing process, even thesober Chamber of Commerce has rebottled, andnow offers itself up under the full-bodied title ofthe Penticton and Wine Country Chamber ofCommerce. Those at the South Gate of the longOkanagan Valley—namely Oliver and Osoyoos—have boldly labelled the region as the Wine Capitalof Canada.

Or perhaps one should refer to the entire valleyas the Wine and Spirits Capital. In the south,Naramata’s Stonehill Estate Winery has openedSpirit Bear Cottage Distillery and is producingbrandies from various local fruits. At the NorthGate, former-Albertan Jennifer Strachan, of Vernoncommunity marketing development, is quick tohighlight the growing renown of Okanagan Spirits,the country’s pre-eminent fruit brandy distillerwhich is winning accolades for the splendid thingsit does with peaches and apricots.

In terms of a mass rebranding effort for thewider region, Strachan concedes that matters arenot, in reality, quite on that footing. “I definitely,see us as positioning ourselves better collectivelythroughout the Okanagan. And when we are atthe conventions and we say ‘Okanagan’, theAmericans especially are like, ‘Okan-a-what?’And so as soon as we say ‘Well, we’re the

Canadian Napa Valley,’ it’s ‘Oh right!’ But as faras an actual brand, I wouldn’t say that we’vemoved forward to that extent.”

Vernon itself has rebranded though, as ExploreGreater Vernon. “We’ve tried to focus on agro-tourism, not just wine,” Strachan explains.“Agro-tourism is emerging as a very, verypopular interest. That’s the orchards, thewineries, but also the distilleries and nature,some of the historic facilities and cultural toursthat we have here. We’ve been really marketingunder the umbrella of agro-tourism to Albertansbecause there isn’t a lot of it there.”

If any confusion still lingers, Nancy Cameron,general manager of Tourism Kelowna isagreeably at hand to set all matters of Okanaganbranding in their proper order.

“There has not been a collective effort toformally rebrand the Okanagan as the NapaValley North,” she affirms unequivocally. In fact,as she explains, the term Napa Valley North hasbeen coined by some wine and travel writers thathave visited this area and use that term as a pointof comparison and description.

“This is positive,” Cameron insists, “as itallows readers and potential travellers toimmediately relate to the type of experience thatexists in the Okanagan Wine Region. [It] isgenerally quite a surprise to readers because theydo not think of BC and Canada as having aclimate that would be suitable for grape growing.This helps shake up the Great White Northimage and open the doors for curiosity andintrigue.”

Sooner or later, the powers that be in theOkanagan will settle on an all encompassingmoniker. Here’s an idea: It’s well known thatcitizens of Strachan’s original province are thickon the vine in the Okanagan. Just to press thepoint, she refers to the nearby resort property inwhich she has invested. “There are 82 lots. Andthey’re all Albertans, except for three!” Jenniferveritably hoots. It’s a scenario that’s playing outin virtually all the resort/recreational areas ofBritish Columbia.

Hmmm… Alberta West? Perhaps. ✔

Napa Valley North –or notEdmontonians can’t invest fast enough in BC

“A“ABy Michael O’Toole

1. British Columbia Wine Centre/ Don Weixl Photo2. Okanagan Peach/ John Berry Photo3. Jennifer Strachan/ Don Weixl Photo4. Fruit of the vine/ Photography by Chris

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EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FORIN A PARTNER?

To start with, survey participants were askedwhat they felt was the most importantcharacteristic in a mate or partner. Notsurprisingly, a range of characteristics wasoffered. Approximately one-quarter ofrespondents (24 percent) said honesty is themost important quality. Eight percentsuggested a sense of humour is veryimportant. Compatibility, respect and goodcommunication skills—each at fourpercent—also made the list.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAYTO MEET SOMEONE?Next, respondents were asked to identify thebest way to meet a prospective mate orpartner. Through friends (11 percent) wasseen as a great way to meet someone, as wasschool (eight percent), and church (sevenpercent). Interestingly, seven percent ofmales suggested a prospective mate orpartner could be met anywhere andeverywhere; no females suggested this.Perhaps more telling, 35 percent ofrespondents did not know the best way tomeet a prospective mate or partner.

We also asked respondents if they—oranyone they know—have used an on-line orInternet dating service to help them meetsomeone. About one-third (31 percent) saidthey or someone they know had tried thismethod of dating. Furthermore, 81 percentof the people who had tried on-line dating

had actually dated someone they metthrough the service.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN“LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT”?Thinking about our busy lives, we askedwhether the respondents believed in love atfirst sight. Over half (55 percent) said theydo believe love at first sight is possible, andalmost two-thirds (62 percent) of thesebelievers said that it had happened to them.Males were more likely (70 percent) to saythey have experienced love at first sight thanfemales (56 percent).

WHAT IS THE KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL RELATIONSHIP?Finally, respondents offered their best adviceto ensure a long and happy relationship.While respondents provided a diverse list ofadvice, about one-quarter (22 percent) saidhonesty is key to a successful relationship.Good communications (16 percent), andknowing yourself and your partner (ninepercent) were also suggested. Eleven percentof males suggested compromise is importantcompared with only four percent of females.However, 12 percent of females suggestedhaving fun would ensure a long and happyrelationship… no males offered this advice.

The Poll Station surveyed 100 City ofEdmonton residents on the topic and, whilethe results of the research are notstatistically reliable, they do provide aqualitative indication of what Edmontoniansare thinking. ✔

Linda Banister is a certified managementconsultant and the owner of BanisterResearch and Consulting Inc., a full serviceprovider of market research and programevaluation services. Want a questionincluded in the Edmontonians Poll? ContactLinda at 780.451.4444 or e-mail atlbanister@edmontonians.com. Visit www.banister.ab.ca.

STATIONhe pace of society seems to be faster thanever. Contrary to predictions made manyyears ago, the average work week has notbeen reduced—in fact, some people

suggest it has increased. In the midst of our busy lives,people continue to look for the perfect partner. In thismonth’s Poll Station, we asked about relationships andwondered if matchmaking has kept up with life’sfrantic pace.

TTWith Linda Banister

PollPoll

FOUNDERDICK MacLEAN

OCTOBER 2006Vol. XVII

Published by 399620 Alberta Ltd. on the first day of eachmonth at 333, 10240 - 124 Street, Edmonton, Alberta,Canada T5N 3W6. ©All rights reserved. No part of thispublication may be reprinted or reproduced in any formwithout written permission from the publisher.

Manuscripts: must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Edmontonians is not responsible forunsolicited manuscripts.

All stories Copyright ©Edmontonians

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40023292Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:Circulation Department333, 10240 - 124 StreetEdmonton, AB T5N 3W6Email: info@edmontonians.com

SHARON MacLEANPublisher and Advertising Director

Telephone: 780.482.7000Fax: 780.488.9317

e-mail: info@edmontonians.comedmontonians.com

INSIDEFUNNY, POMPOUS AND UNFAIRNo bear hugs/Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

OKANAGAN FEVERNapa Valley North/O’Toole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Perfect Blend/Berry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Absolute Bodo/Bodo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8MenuMagic/Berry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

POLL STATIONPartners/Banister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

COVER/NEW WRITERSOn Holger’s Block/Grisdale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

BIZINTELCivic Buzz/Norwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13BizIT/Michetti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Media Minute/Hogle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

MAKING MONEYRamblings/Hiebert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSMaggie Walt/Lockhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

EDMONTONIAN IN EXILEGarbage/Edmondson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

BARB DETERSEditor

editor@edmontonians.com

COLUMNISTSLinda Banister

John BerryLinda Bodo

Cheryl CroucherJanet EdmondsonMuggsy Forbes

Ron HiebertBruce Hogle

Cheryl LockhartGreg Michetti

David NorwoodNizar J. Somji

FEATURE WRITERSJohn BerryLinda Bodo

Mackenzie GrisdalePeter Drake McHugh

Michael O’TooleMarg. Pullishy

PHOTOGRAPHERSJohn Berry

Terry BourqueBarry Fontaine

Tracy GrabowskiRocco Macri

Photography by ChrisDon Weixl

GRAPHIC PRODUCTIONRage Studios Inc.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGYMichetti Information Solutions Inc.

THIS MONTH’S COVER

Holger Peterson photo by Rocco Macri

Inset: Vineyard at Sunrisesupplied by Tourism Kelowna

No. 10

1717YEARS

C E L E B R A T I N G

Perc

enta

ge

24%

8%4% 4% 4%

Said honesty isthe most

importantquality.

Said a sense ofhumour is the

most importantquality.

Said compatibility is the mostimportant

quality.

Said respect is the mostimportant

quality.

Said goodcommunication

skills are the mostimportant quality.

Poor Boys LunchPoor Boys LunchNovember 16, 2006Fantasyland Hotel

Phone 780.444.2819 for tickets

EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006 5

Proof_ 2___PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________

grew up in a beautiful neighbourhood in ForestHeights. It was full of great people and kids aroundmy age, near plenty of good tobogganing hills andclose to the river valley. I also grew up listening to

amazing and diverse music, especially folk and blues. Bothmy neighbourhood and the music I listened to have helpedshape me, but I didn’t realize until recently the depth of theconnection between the two.

I say this because Holger Petersen, president of StonyPlain Records and radio-host on both CKUA and CBC,lived down the street. When I was younger, I thought ofHolger as a friendly guy who had a speedy dog and, forsome reason, two houses. As for the dog, Bingo was hisname-o and he was mostly blind. Great dog though he was,he moonlighted as a bike-fiend and would chase me downthe alley until he was dangerously close to the spokes thathe could barely see.

The two houses were another matter. My six-year oldmind once boggled at the thought of Holger being his ownneighbour. It turns out, though, that one of his houses wasactually the office of Stony Plain Records. Holger and thecompany have been central to the development of the rootsmusic scene in Edmonton and beyond, which is, I nowknow, strongly linked to why I got to listen to great rootsmusic while growing up.

This year is the 30th anniversary of Stony Plain Records,so it’s about time that I learned more about my formerneighbour and what he does. To get some answers, I joinedhim on his back porch. I started by mentioning the limosthat would occasionally drive by and stop in front ofHolger’s place when I was young. Over the years, manyartists who are regularly found singing on my family stereostepped from their limousines into Holger’s home,including Amos Garrett, Harry Manx, Ian Tyson, MariaMuldaur, and Lucinda Williams. In his typical good-naturedmanner, Holger chuckles when asked who the besthouseguest was. “They were all good!” he says.

Although my personal celebrity encounter isunfortunately limited to having Peter Pocklington step onmy foot at a Trappers game, I do try to see my share ofmusicians perform. In fact for me, the real New Year beginswith the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, a treasure trove ofinteresting roots sounds. My dad even remembers Holgerrecruiting him to manage a stage at the very first Folk Fest.Holger was one of the founders of the event, and served asartistic director for three years before Terry Wickhamaccepted the reins. “It’s such a quality event… It’srecognized internationally for the quality of entertainmentthat is there and the massive organization that runs it sowell, especially the commitment of the volunteers.” He alsomentions that he started the Folk Fest House Band in theearly ’80s, and is still in charge of this festival staple.

Holger regularly takes in other festivals around the

province including Edmonton’s Labatt Blues Festival andthe Calgary Folk Fest. He does fabulous interviews onsiteat these festivals for his radio shows, including SaturdayNight Blues on CBC, and Natch’l Blues on CKUA, nowover 30 years old and Canada’s longest running radio bluesshow. After all these years as an interviewer, Holger admits,“I’m star-struck by talented people, especially if I’m awareof them through music.” One of the reasons he loves doingradio today is the chance to meet such talented, interestingpeople. He often brings along records for the artists toautograph for his collection.

This summer, he travelled to Washington, D.C. for themonthlong Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which spotlightedAlberta. Besides the booming economy, traditions in sport(ahem, hockey), multiculturalism and Alberta’s frontierroots, the festival looked at the musical culture of theprovince. Holger hosted one of the stages featuringAlbertan performing artists. The festival was a naturalextension for him as Stony Plain Records is also partneredwith Folkways Alive, a joint project between theSmithsonian Institute and the University of Alberta. Theproject is home to an impressive collection of folk andother roots records collected and then donated by the lateMoses Asch, who founded New York-based FolkwaysRecords in 1948.

Responding to my question about why Asch choseEdmonton as the beneficiary of such a unique collection,Holger says, “I think that one of the things that Moses Aschnoted was the presence of CKUA and the fact that it is sucha unique broadcasting service. It’s Canada’s oldest publicbroadcaster.” He continues, “according to [the benefactor’sbrother] Michael Asch, Moses really liked the volunteerspirit here, liked the festivals… liked the size of the city andrespected the university… I think we were all very lucky tobe the beneficiary of that wonderful collection.”

And how does Holger himself feel about the city? He andhis business partner, Alvin Jahns, have chosen to keepStony Plain Records here even when other small labelshave headed east or south. “The size of Edmonton meansthat there is really a community here. Almost everywhereyou go you’re running into people that you know… Theother thing is, I think, that we’re very culturally rich here.There’s always so much going on and it’s hard to keep upwith it. If you have diverse interests there’s stuff going onhere all the time,” he says.

And, he just likes the neighbourhood. Living andworking in Forest Heights is evidently a lot of fun. Manypeople in the community are volunteers, and theirconscientious nature gives the area the positive, friendlyspirit that Holger himself epitomizes. He enjoys being ableto go for a bike ride in the river valley after an Oilers’ gamein the spring. Whenever his schedule allows, he also comesout to the annual block party, an event that holds memories

of water fights, sidewalk chalk and bike races for peoplelike me who grew up there.

Unfortunately, Stony Plain Records has recently felt theeffects of the free music downloading craze. Commentingon the trend, Holger explains, “Sometimes we don’t mindgiving away free music, and the artists we work with don’tmind giving away free samples and allowing people to beexposed to their music. But, I think the most important partof that is it’s a choice. It’s a choice that we make or ourartists make. To download illegally is certainly wrong and itdoes affect everybody in the industry. I think the futurelooks better. I think there will be a business model in placethat will benefit everybody… I’m quite optimistic.”

He’s got some good pointers for people considering afuture in the music biz. Good companies aren’t necessarilythe biggest ones around: “There’s been lots of opportunityto grow the company, but my idea of growth really is doinga better job with what we have with the amount of artistswe work with.”

Most important to Holger, perhaps, is the relationship thatStony Plain cultivates with those musicians. “I think we’rewhat you would call an artist-friendly record label. I’m veryproud of the fact that the artists we work with we tend towork with for long periods of time. Take someone like IanTyson, we’ve worked with him for over 20 years… AmosGarrett for 25 years… Maria Muldaur for 20 years… DukeRobillard for over 10 years. I think that speaks to ourrespect for the artists.”

If the success of another of those artists, Corb Lund, atlast month’s 2006 Canadian Country Music Awards isany indication, Stony Plain Records’ business formulawill more than sustain the company in years to come.Lund received both Roots Artist and Album of the Yearfor Hair in My Eyes like a Highland Steer. This honour,of course, is only one in a multitude befalling StonyPlain’s artists over the past three decades. In addition toseveral CCM awards, other illustrious hardware adornsthe company’s wall and shelves, including a formidablecollection of Junos.

I’m glad that I’ve started to wise up and appreciatehow cool it was to grow up on Holger’s block. Listeningto the range of roots music we have access to here, oftenstemming from some facet of his work, marks a greatcultural opportunity for all Edmontonians—even thosewho have never been chased by Holger’s dog. ✔

Mackenzie Grisdale is in her fourth year of an HonoursEnglish degree at the UofA, applying to grad school injournalism. The self-professed folk-music junkie is 21years old.

Do you have a story idea? Contact: editor@edmontonians.com

By Mackenzie Grisdale

II

Holger and Mackenzie check out one of numerous gold albumawards achieved under theStony Plain Records label.

Growing up in the presence of a music iconPhotos by Rocco Macri

YOUNGwriters

6 EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006

Proof__4____PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________

o know Keith Holman is to know awalking encyclopedia on all things wine inBritish Columbia’s Okanagan Valley… inparticular, an area just a five-minute drive

from downtown Pentiction called Naramata—what thelocals refer to as “the arm or the bench.”

He’s a man with a vision that’s blossoming right beforeeveryone’s eyes. Spillers Corner, as it is known, has been inthe fruit business for 25 years. Keith and his wife Lynnrestored the old 1930’s farmhouse and converted it toSpiller’s Corner Bed and Breakfast. They’ve also opened afruit stand. He saw a marriage made in heaven.

Holman is now producing fruit wines at his Spiller EstateWinery. I must admit the thought of wine infused with thedelicate flavours of fruit such as apple, pineapple, raspberryand apricots made me want to shout at the top of my lungs,“No, no, no!”

But alas, dear reader, after a taste of each, I was hooked.My favourite is the apple: a light, lively blend of Fuji,MacIntosh, Gala, Red and Golden Delicious apples. It’sabsolutely incredible with poultry and pork. It tastes likeChristmas in a glass.

The other wine that turned my taste buds into over-drivewas the pineapple. It’s so refreshingly delicious that it hasbackyard BBQ and summertime written all over it.

Holman saw more possibilities, not to mention moreacres of vines. So he bought Benchland Winery, andrenamed it Stonehill Estate Winery. Realizingthe potential, he also purchased the winery nextdoor, Mistral Estate Winery. What Spiller is tofruit wines, Mistral is to Bordeaux and Burgandy.

But, Holman isn’t after amassing large tracts ofvineyards to mass-produce. He is after loweryields of high quality grapes. He only produces2,500 to 3,000 cases a year.

Next door at Stonehill, magical things arebeginning to happen. Not only is the winery amodern, well equipped facility, but it is makinghistory. Holman has just installed an 850-litre copperpot still he bought from a farm-gate operation inNova Scotia. It’s the largest and first farm-based stillof its kind in British Columbia.

Enter Laurent Lafuente, a former French trainedwinemaker. He’s also a rum distiller and master

blender, perfecting his trade in Guyana and Antigua in theWest Indies. Together, he and Holman have opened SpiritBear Cottage Distillery.

LaFuente immigrated to Pentiction because it’s a stableplace to live and raise his family, especially in terms ofeducation. He’s incredibly excited and enthusiastic aboutthe challenges ahead.

“I find making wine boring. Distilling is much morefun.”

Not to mention an exacting art unto itself. It’s allchemistry, and you can see the love in his eyes when hetalks about his still and how he makes his cherry, apple,apricot, peach, blueberry and raspberry brandies. Thiswinter, he plans to experiment with pineapple, mango andpomegranates.

With many of these fruits just across the road, Holman istaking fruit wines to a new level. I had the pleasure oftrying a Cherry Port that LaFuente had just bottled. Wow. Itwas indeed delightful.

BENCHLAND WINERIESSET QUALITY BENCHMARKYou might think that with the new venture, our story wouldend here. But this is Keith Holman we’redealing with. He has once

again expanded his vision with the acquisition of the highlysuccessful and renowned Lang Wineries, one of the mostpopular in BC.

Gunther Lang is a wine icon, having opened the firstfarm-gate wine operation in that province. After 16 yearsof making some of the best wines in BC, he decided itwas time to retire to the wine cellar and enjoy the fruitsof his labour. Holman heard about Lang’s plans andapproached him about buying the winery. But there weretwo offers ahead of Holman and things didn’t look toooptimistic. After several meetings, Lang decided he’drather sell local.

“I couldn’t ask for a better person. We think the sameway… we have the same ideals, the same goals. The bigplus is that he’s local. Our goal is to make better and betterwines, to be the best of the best.”

Lang, who now assumes the general manager’s role ofHolman’s ever growing holdings, says, “I’m very optimisticabout the future. Our region is so unique in the world.”

Holman agrees. “Benchland is like a little Monaco. Ifhandled properly, it will be a wine destination for theworld.”

And, to take one more step toward his vision, Holman isopening his fifth winery, Soaring Eagle. This is the nameof a top end wine produced by Lang, and both men moreor less came up with the same idea at the same time. Theproperty sits just above Lake Okanagan with one of thebest views along the bench. It has 30 acres slated forreplanting and so far 12 have been cultivated withGewurtztraminer (one of my personal favs), Pinot Gris,Syrah and Viognier varietals. A restaurant and inn arealso planned for the property. This could well be thehottest ticket in the Okanagan once finished.

The thing that excites me the most about Holman’sand Lang’s visions is that they want to stay local,focused on what they do best. They want to create aculture and traditions along the same lines as thewine culture in Europe.

“They’ve been doing it over there for 600 years.We’re in it for the long term. We want our children

to carry on the family business.”Holman owns the third largest group of wineries in

Western Canada and Lang is firmly on board. They stand agood chance. ✔

Perfect BlendThree aficionados build a family tradition

TTBy John Berry

Berry and Holman appreciate the legsPhoto by Barry Fontaine

7EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006

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EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 20068

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icturesque Route 97 snthrough the fruit baskeColumbia: the OkanagEndless orchards and v

exploding with peaches, pears, chergrapes cradle the highway from EndExploring the route via SUV or RVrecommended… empty trunks or stmysteriously fill up as you wine, dinfine collectibles through BC’s interito applesauce, biscotti to bistros, chchardonnay, or honey to handicraftsdiscoveries await every palate. Duridecades, I have become acquainted bounty while trekking along Route North Gate to the South Gate. Hereitinerary that is guaranteed to rev upall of us.

‘The Top of the Okanagan’, or Enon the banks of the Shuswap River.riverfront community is nestled belocliffs that tower high above the city.offers a wide array of antique shopscrafts galleries in an ambient settingby heritage buildings, including twoand Lorraine carry a large inventorycollectibles at Jerry’s Antiques & Thrare and out-of-print books, maps andown the street in a renovated housmurals created by local artists, CobwGifts offers a unique selection of ancollectibles including one-of-a-kindhomemade crafts. Leave yourself amexplore all the nooks and crannies in

South of Enderby is the small comcommercial centre of Armstrong, pfertile dairy and ranch land of the SValley where agriculture and ranchieconomic ventures. The town is namHeaton Armstrong, a London bankefinance the Shuswap and OkanaganThe valley is a fine agricultural areacloaked in rich green alfalfa and gol

with Linda Bod

PP

9EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006

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snakes its wayket of Britishagan Valley.d vineyardserries, apples andnderby to Osoyoos.V is highlystorage bays willdine and accumulaterior. From antiquesheese to

fts… delectablering the past twod with this region’se 97—from itsre is a tried and trueup the voyageur in

Enderby is locatedr. This idyllic

elow steep volcanicy. The historic townps, and arts andng occupied largelywo must-stops. Jerryry of antiques andThings as well asand prints. Just

use decked out withbwebs Antiques &

antiques andd gifts andample time toin each location.

ommunity andpresiding over the

Spallumcheenhing are traditionalamed after E.C.ker who helpedan Railway in 1892.ea predominantlyolden grains, with

diverse farms nestled among pine-clad hillsides. TheArmstrong Cheese Factory is a micro cheese plantbased on the estate winery concept. Pull up a stool andwatch cheese-makers creating cheese the oldfashioned way from fresh local cow’s milk. Try thecheese curds… they squeak on your teeth, but theymake a darn good poutine.

A drive through Vernon’s downtown core offers aglimpse into the city’s rich culture through historicbuildings and 26 mind-blowing heritage murals.Nestled between the Kalamalka and Okanagan Lakes,Vernon is the oldest and second largest community inBC’s interior and has become a Mecca for outdoorenthusiasts. Big Chief RV Park is a pocket-sized RVpark, integrated into a mobile home communityamong towering pine and maple trees. Several sitesback onto a babbling brook filled with good-naturedducks who appreciate bread scraps at sunrise. This isan extremely quiet park that will have you whispering

after 9:00pm as the entire community seems to hit thesack around that time. However, going to bed early isa good thing, since you will need all your energy toscour two of my favourite antique shops, justmoments away in the downtown core. City CentreAntiques, located in the town’s former hardware store,is jam-packed with a profuse assortment of antiquesand crafts from various dealers, including everythingfrom desks to doorknobs. Antique Imports-Auction isa gargantuan warehouse loaded with unique finds thatCollin and Victor have pulled together frominternational buying sprees. From stylish Parisianarmoires to beefy Dutch farmhouse buffets, the varietyis staggering. Since the boys are only open fromWednesday to Saturday, it is well worth re-arrangingyour schedule for a visit. In case storage is gettingtight in the vehicle, shipping can be arranged.

For those of you more inclined to park your RV forthe summer, you might want to check out SwanLake Recreational Resort. Owner Natasha Crokercurrently has 111 sites and is planning 39 more. Theserviced lots are going fast at $52,000 each.Lake Kalamalka’s luminescent turquoise hue is a

sharp contrast to its surrounding toasty hills. I amthankful that I am not driving: It gives me an

opportunity to indulge in Mother Nature’s superb vistaall the way to Oyama, where a schnitzel-ishious stopat Oyama Okanagan Sausage is in order. Stepping

odo

Bits of Heaven along Route 97

Bits of Heaven along Route 97

with Chef John BerryMEN

UMagic

ine country cuisine is all aboutorganic, locally-grown, seasonalingredients picked fresh and takenright to your table. And, Penticton is

one of the places where these factors all come together.Dana Ewart and Cameron Smith know first hand

what it’s like to have the best of the best at theirfingertips. Both were chefs at the Bench Market whenthey opened their own catering company “on the fly”.

There has been such a demand for their products thatthey are down to working one day a week at themarket. The rest of the time, they are in their kitchentrying to keep up. Their clientele ranges from localsand tourists to those who fly to Penticton in theirprivate planes from Washington State.

I met them at their stall in the Penticton market. Tosay they were run off their feet is an understatement.

WW

LIVELYlifestyles

Continued on page 11 Continued on page 12

Okanagan antique is now my ornate bar

A little creek runs through Big Chief

Dana’s pastries

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11EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006

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“”

into the shop tickles the taste buds—hanging rolls ofpancetta and rings of garlic sausage fight for space amongduck sausage links, procuitto, and wild boar salami. For fivegenerations, the van der Lieck family has been dicing,grinding and spicing the best sausages, hams and patés onthe planet. Yum!

Motoring past hills quilted with the fabric of vineyardsand orchards, the Okanagan Sunflower—ArrowleafBalsamroot, Kelowna’s official flower—beams across hillsand mountain tops. Cloudless blue skies boast over 2,000hours of sunshine annually, occasionally sprinkled with 11inches of precipitation… perfect conditions for nurturingthe fruit of the vine. A tree top erupts as a flock of swallowsascend into the clear blue sky, spooked by a passing pick-uptruck. A thousand flash bulbs go off in an orchard under the

mid-day sun as strips of foil ribbon flicker in a gentlebreeze. This tactile maneuver prevents birds from chowing-down on ripe fruit so they can be shipped to fruit stands andmarkets, including the Kelowna Farmers Market, whichruns every Wednesday and Saturday until the end ofOctober. Don’t even think about walking throughdowntown without a trip to Tripke’s Bakery on the maindrag. Although every item is absolutely mouth-watering, theshortbread biscotti are a favourite. With a hint of cinnamonand dipped in milk chocolate, these babies are soft andcrumbly—a pleasant change from the traditional Italianvariety. If you prefer to sample on site, there is a quaint tearoom at the rear of the bakery, where fresh baking andspecialty sandwiches are served.

Before leaving the Kelowna area, you might want to headfor Twin Lakes, past Kaladen, to check out The Red RoostGift Shop & Studio, owned by Janet and Larry Burbidge,former Edmontonians. Janet was a manager at Holt Refrewfor a number of years, and Larry is still into real estateappraisal. Their Sante Fe-style shop on Sheep Creek Road

is a treasure trove of iron and stone works, stained glass,wood creations and garden accessories. Speaking of which,a stroll through their hillside garden makes the detour evenmore worthwhile.

Winding along a picturesque ribbon of highway thatslices through over 5,200 acres ofwell tended vineyards stretchingtoward the shores of OkanaganLake, the region is often referredto as the Valley of the Vines.Westbank is home to severalvineyards, including Quail’s GateEstate Winery, one of mypreferred stopovers for lunch ordinner on their fresco styleterrace. The Old Vines PatioRestaurant is open year round,offering gourmet cuisine madewith the freshest local produce.Relax on the patio with vineyardsand lake-views as you savour theperfect marriage of wine andfood. Don’t miss the OkanaganWine Festivals: the Fall Festival,from September 29th to October8th and the Icewine Festival,January 19th through 22nd.

Peachland’s main streetborders the banks of LakeOkanagan, where Joerg Hoerathhas been serving up platters of schnitzel, rouladen and porkhocks at the Gasthaus since 1991. The Bavarian eateryboasts a sprawling terrace with fab views of the water,while offering a cool retreat under hanging vines to soak inthe sights over a pint of lager. De-alcoholized Warsteiner isavailable for designated drivers.

Penticton is nestled between Okanagan and SkahaLakes. My colleague, Chef John, is a regular summervacationer, so I’ve left lengthy commentary to him inMenuMagic and his article about the Holman familywineries.

Lake Okanagan is linked to Skaha Lake via a canalwhere tubers, air mattress drifters and ducks float south pastPenticton and its most famous resident: Ogopogo.Parasailers weave overhead as we navigate the twistinghighway from Skaha’s waters to Vaseux Lake. Here, inOkanagan Falls, the best ice cream you have ever slung alip over can be found at Tickleberry’s. Passing vacationers,truckers and ice cream aficionados scoop up their share ofthe 48 flavours offered daily. If you’re in a hurry to hit theroad again, to-go containers are available. Just remember tograb a handful of napkins.

A visit to Oliver, the Wine Capital of Canada, mustinclude an epicurean experience in The Sonora Room atBurrowing Owl Estate Winery. Whether you dine on thepatio overlooking the picturesque vineyard or inside thewarm and inviting dining room, talented chefs will delightyou with the bounties of the Okanagan Valley. Fresh localorganic produce, seasonal fruits and artisan breads andcheeses are paired with an exclusive wine list, whichchanges regularly to include a selection of Burrowing Owllibrary wines no longer publicly available for sale. Situatedin one of the four most endangered ecosystems in all ofCanada, the winery is nestled in the northern tip of theSonora Desert—the most highly-rated grape growing areasin the Okanagan. The winery pays tribute to the little native

burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia), which is currentlybeing reintroduced to the Okanagan Valley.

Meander through the Golden Mile, where internationallyrecognized wineries are located within a 20-kilometrestretch along the valley. The scent of lavender perfumes the

air as you pass stand after standof fruits and vegetables,seasoned with Mother Nature’sgentle touch. Vines cover thefolds of the hills in bold strokesof emerald green, delicatetendrils clinging onto supportsthat will bear the weight ofripened grapes when the palettewill enigmatically transform tobrilliant red.

Monster floral globes saddlelampposts on the busy mainstreet in Osoyoos, which flowsperpendicular to the shores ofLake Osoyoos. Misters spraylight streams of cool wateroverhead to combat the desert-like heat as you stroll throughthe downtown core. Situated ona bench overlooking the lake,Nk’Mip Cellars—pronouncedInk-a-Meep—is NorthAmerica’s first Aboriginal

owned andoperatedwinery. Aftera prolongedbout of winetasting, Istronglysuggestexploring theunusual menuat the Plein-Air restaurant,where organicwild gamesausage, bisonsirloin andgrilled Indianbannock awaitadventurouspalates. Whileyour meal is grilling on an open fire on the canopiedterrace, soak in the pastoral views of the desert, newlyplanted vineyards and another gloriously iridescent lake.

ABSOLUTE TIPIf you decide to continue your journey further south, be sureto stop in at the Canadian Customs building before crossingthe border. Any wine that is taken out of the country issubject to taxation upon its return into Canada. CanadaCustoms decals are available to avoid any surcharges. Oh,and don’t bring any citrus, beef or lamb along: It will beseized. Or, you will be forced to chow down any bannedproducts before border crossing.

Contact Linda Bodo at lbodo@edmontonians.com or visit absolutebodo.com.

Continued from page 9

Experience NK’Mip

Downtown OsoyoosTripke’s treats

Quail’s Gate patio

EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 200612

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Their wonderful pastries flew off the pans as fast as theycould put them up. And everyone knows each other.

“Hi, how are the chickens?” asks Dana of one of hercustomers. To another she inquires, “Another big partytonight?” As a young lady approaches, Dana smiles, “Sonice to see you out of uniform.”

It feels like I’m home.When you look at what Dana and Cameron are doing, it’s

nothing more than good, old-fashioned down home cookingand hospitality. They’ve kept it simple and clean. It sells bigtime.

“Everything just grows here. Why not use it?” adds Dana.And talk about the circle of life: Dana and Cameron’scompost goes to the lady who raises the chickens. Thecompost becomes feed. Dana and Cameron take the eggsand use them in their baking.

A lot of wine-friendly items are raised or grown. Forexample, game meats are local: Rabbit is big. Game birdssuch as quail and pheasant are chef favourites.

Dana recalls, “I was with friends the other night watchingsome wild quail feed on apricots. And I’m thinking withsage in the garden and quail… mmmmm. My friends thinkI’m demented.”

Perhaps, but in a tasty sort of way.She points to several interesting businesses in Penticton

that she calls “hidden gems.“There’s Bench Market on Vancouver Hill… Poplar

Grove Winery is making its own cheeses… Carmeles isworking a lot with goat cheeses. It’s awesome. And thenthere’s Joie Winery, which has a cooking school. Both of usteach there as well, with owners Heidi Noble and MichaelDinn. Both were Sommeliers before opening up theirwinery. ”

This maturing of the culinary sector is also reflected inseveral key restaurants in town. A tourist and local favouriteis Theo’s, built in 1976.

Here they serve not only traditional Greek dishes butwhat owner Nikos Theodosakis calls Okanagan/Mediterranean cuisine.

“Some of the same greens found in Crete grow wild inthe Okanagan. So we’ve incorporated them into the menu.”

He’s working very closely with his suppliers on produce.He says they can give him the quality and quantity that heneeds for his restaurant.

“It’s organic and it’s fresh.”Local wines obviously factor heavily into the equation.

So does education.“In 1976, we had three local wines on our list and two of

them had Baby Duck in their names. Today, we have 118Okanagan wines on our list. I’m trying to educate the publicto the difference between the lower-end wines and theupper-end.”

Nikos also regularly trains his staff on how to properlypresent the wine at the table. He takes them to some of thefarm-gate wineries to see how wine is made, and to learnabout the different grapes used in wine production and whatthey taste like in the end product.

Like Cameron and Dana, Nikos keeps food preparationsimple. He says the future is in returning to the traditionalroots of Greek cuisine with locally grown wines andingredients. Theo’s is certainly a destination spot for theserious food lover.

And an absolute must is to check-out the fine diningrestaurants and bistros located in many of the wineries.Here chefs create wonderful dishes that are expertlymatched to the wines produced on site. Most menus offerwine pairing suggestions for each item.

Nikos provided me with his mother’s stuffed tomatoes,which she prepared for the Tomato Festival at Covert Farmsand for which she won the Iron Tomato Chef competition.

MARY’S STUFFED TOMATOES—CRETAN STYLE12 medium firm ripe tomatoes1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil2 medium red onions, finely chopped1 bunch green onions, finely chopped1 cup long grain rice, rinsed and dried

4 garlic cloves, minced1 tsp. cinnamon1/3 cup currants, soaked in dry white wine1/3 cup lightly toasted pine nuts1/2 cup chicken stock1 1/2 Tbsp. salt1 bunch of fresh herbs, stems removed:

dill, mint, basil, Italian flat leaf parsley1/4 cup ground parmesan cheese1/4 cup fine bread crumbs1 tsp. sugar for rice fillingsugar to sprinkle inside tomatoes

1. Wash and dry tomatoes. Slice through side of tomatoesopposite the stem, but do not sever since the tops serveas covers. Scoop out the pulp with a teaspoon andreserve. Sprinkle inside of tomato with salt, sugar, andground fresh pepper. Place upside down in a pan todrain.

2. In a large heavy skillet, heat 2 tbsp. olive oil and toastpine nuts lightly. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, redonions, and 1 tsp. salt. Saute over medium heat, stirringconstantly, for 5 to 8 minutes.

4. Add green onions and sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes. 5. Add rice to onion mixture, stir together and sauté for 5

minutes. 6. Add tomato pulp, minced garlic, cinnamon, strained

currants, toasted pine nuts, 1/2 cup chicken stock, 1tbsp. salt, freshly ground pepper, sugar, and mixthoroughly. Reduce heat to simmer and cover. Cookuntil rice is soft but not cooked through. Mixture shouldbe moist. Remove mixture from frying pan and place ina bowl.

7. Season to taste.8. Add chopped fresh herbs and mix well.9. Place tomatoes stem down in a baking pan large enough

to hold them snuggly upright.10. Stuff tomatoes 3/4 full with rice mixture.11. Sprinkle approximately 1 tsp. parmesan cheese on rice

mixture.12. Replace tops of tomatoes.13. Drizzle 1 tsp. olive oil over each tomato top.14. Sprinkle fine bread crumbs on top of each tomato.15. Add 1/4 cup of tomato juice from reserved pulp on the

bottom of the pan.16. Bake uncovered at 350º F for approximately 1 1/2

hours. ✔

Contact Chef John Berry at jberry@edmontonians.com

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Continued from page 9

Winery mealPhoto by Don Weixl

13EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 2006

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RIOPEL’S NEW STRATEGYThe City of Edmonton has shownthat it can tap into the incrediblewealth of local business talent.Building on its ongoing efforts to planfor the enormous growth occurring in

the capital region, the City has recruit-ed experienced and distinguishedbusiness consultant Janet Riopel to begeneral manager of growth initiatives,reporting directly to City Manager AlMaurer.

“Planning for how we manage the

issues arising out of the growthcoming to this region is one of thebiggest challenges the city will face inthe coming years,” said Maurer. “Janetis a well-known, well-respected andwell-connected Edmontonian, and shehas the expertise to link in with othercommunity leaders to find solutionsfor the growth issues that theEdmonton capital region faces.”

Riopel is president and CEO ofTREYL Communications Inc.Having spent close to 20 years in theland development industry, she hasconsiderable experience in communitydevelopment and community building.Currently active on a number of local,regional and national boards, she hasserved as 2005 campaign chair for theUnited Way of the Alberta CapitalRegion; chair of Grant MacEwanCollege’s board of governors;president and chair of the EdmontonChamber of Commerce; andpresident of the Urban DevelopmentInstitute, Alberta.

One of Riopel’s key duties will beadvancing the city’s industrial landstrategy, announced by MayorStephen Mandel in his State of theCity address this past spring, andaimed at increasing the City’s share ofcapital region industrial development.“Janet’s efforts will yield positiveresults for our industrial land strategy,which is absolutely vital given the $30billion in development planned for theregion,” said Mayor Mandel. “But Iknow her work will have an impact ona wider range of growth issues…Edmonton has been front and centre inadvocating for comprehensive, region-wide planning and collaboration, andhiring Janet Riopel is another way thatwe’re leading change.”

FINALLY: AN ATTITUDE CHANGEThe recent news about the intro-duction—actually, the resumption— ofAir Canada’s non-stop service toLondon Heathrow prompts an it’s-about-time feeling. In case you didn’tknow, the service starts on October 31with three flights weekly (Tuesdays,Thursdays and Saturdays), and rampsup to daily service next April, usingBoeing 767-300ER aircraft.

A number of factors differentiatethis new Air Canada service fromthose in the past: the most recent ofwhich was a five-times weekly sea-sonal service in 2001 and, before that,flights that involved the frustration ofat least four of the seven weekly

flights flying from Edmonton toCalgary then back over Edmonton toLondon. Air Canada appears to haveput a lot of thought into the route. TheHeathrow flights have been timed toensure convenient connections inEdmonton to and from FortMcMurray, Grande Prairie andYellowknife—something that has notbeen done before. I’ve argued manytimes in the past that to be viable,

such a route needs feeder connections,just as Calgary has long had similarfeeders from much of Western Canadafor its long-range flights.

I’m cautiously optimistic that AirCanada has undergone an attitudechange regarding Edmonton, recog-nizing the long-term economicpotential this city offers and itsexplosive air traffic growth. So far in2006, Air Canada has announced ninenew non-stop destinations fromEdmonton: Montreal, Los Angeles,Victoria, Kelowna, Yellowknife, LasVegas, London Heathrow, Cancun andPunta Cana. And, the buzz is thatmore announcements could be forth-coming. One especially persistentrumour is that Air Canada Jazz willfill the gap vacated by Continentalearlier this year by introducing non-stop regional jet service to Houston.That could easily be a money-makerfor the airline; Continental wasapparently not losing money on theroute using 120-passenger 737aircraft, but it was able to earn morerevenue deploying the plane on otherroutes. So service with 70-passengerregional jets makes sense. Aviationenthusiasts also suggest that Air

Canada hasexperienced greatsuccess with itsEdmonton-LosAngeles route—somuch so that it willadd a second dailyflight using its newEmbraer 190aircraft, meaningthat mainline AirCanada will assumethe route from Jazz.Again, this makes alot of sense, sinceEdmonton Airports

surveys have shown that Los Angelesis among the top U.S. destinations forEdmonton-departing passengers.

Other carriers aren’t sitting backeither. Northwest to Minneapolis-St.Paul, Horizon to Seattle, and U.S.Airways to Phoenix and Las Vegas arereported to be very happy with theirEdmonton traffic loads. UnitedExpress has already increased its

INTELINTELivic Buzzwith David NorwoodC

BizBiz

When was the last time you baked acake right from scratch?

Wow. That long ago, eh?Chances are you make your cakes the

same way I do: Buy a handy cake mixfrom the local supermarket, add milkand ta-da; there it is. Even I can’t screwthat up.

Same thing applies to today’s creationof simple, basic websites. Mostdesigners, especially those novice typesdoing a relatively standard site, will usea set of templates or one they’verecently completed, just to get the newproject up and running. Templates—pre-designed layouts you can adapt to yourown information—also work well ifyou’re the local, one-person, in-housecomputer support team who gets arequest from the boss to overhaul theexisting web production.

Thankfully, there are several placesthat sell website templates, much likesupermarkets sell cake mix. All you dois shop for the one that best fits yourrequirement, pay for it on-line via creditcard or PayPal, download and extractthe zipped file and add your content viaan application; like MicrosoftFrontPage 2003.

Now FrontPage isn’t the most user-friendly app written by the Gates Gang.However, it is not that expensive (less

than $200) and users familiar with otherMicrosoft Office apps will recognize thesimilar look and feel. Function-wise,there are clearly better applications—like the Dreamweaver-equippedMacromedia Studio 8 set of designtools—but the learning curve is steepand the cost approaches a G-note. Keepin mind you are designing a simple sitefor Luigi’s Radiator Shop; you are notwriting the frontend forAmazon.com.

Problem is,the sampletemplates thatcome withFrontPage aredownrightawful: boring,plain, nopizzazzwhatsoever.Thankfully,entrepreneurial programmers andbusiness types have recognized thisempty market niche and have createdthird party templates. Some of the best,cost-effective templates come from anonline firm called AllWebco DesignCorporation, located at http://allwebco-templates.com/.

You can choose from (all figures US)a $15, four-page site to a $125, 20-pluspage site with three expandable productpages, built-in Paypal and 2CO formsfor payment processing. If yours is a

software firm, you can even buy atemplate that allows for sales ofautomatic downloads of your products.In most cases, there are at least eight,Flash-equipped image pages linked tostandard .jpg images. These sites haveglobal editing features, meaning you cansimply edit a single JavaScript text fileto update all pages.

All of the templates are compatiblewith any serverand can be setup using anyhostingcompany. Pagescan be editedwith MicrosoftFrontPage,GoLive,Dreamweaver,Notepad or anyHTML editor.The templatesites are

completely set up by the user, andAllWebco templates require no graphicsknowledge or software. Each site comeswith a searchable help database pageand, if you can’t figure that out, a quicke-mail to the AllWebco support teamfixes you up fast, as they generally replywithin a couple of hours.

Although plenty of replaceable imagesare included in each template, you caneasily insert your own pictures andchange colours. My guess is that anAllWebco template takes you 75 percent

of the way to making your own site.However, what’s best part about the

AllWebco templates are the choices youget for the price you pay. There aregeneral, cool, “graphix” and corporatecategories, several photographer-styletemplates, and a very, very snappy-looking MP3-style template that looksdownright big-league. There is even aset for budding Web designers lookingto hustle up their web-building skills tothe world.

The second best reason for buyingthese templates is they look good. TheAllWebco team has a great eye forcolour, design, fonts, layout, and just theright amount of Flash to make the sitelook professional. This is an especiallybig deal because nearly all the geekycomputer people I know—includingprogrammers, DBAs, integrators, andespecially me—have absolutely noartistic sense whatsoever.

Summary: You can’t afford not to usethese guys because a hundred dollars orso is chump change compared to what ittakes to make a site from scratch, nomatter what great tools you have.

Better yet, just think of all the timeyou’ll have to bake a cake. ✔

Gregory B. Michetti of theAlberta-based systemsintegration firm MichettiInformation Solutions, Inc.can be reached viawww.michetti.com

izIT 101with Greg MichettiB

Continued on page 14

WEBSITEDESIGN

TEMPLATES—JUST ADD CONTENT—

Janet Riopel

Taking flight to HeathrowAir Canada Photo

EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 200614

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MAKINGmoney

By Ron Hiebertrain farmers have seen prices for theirproducts linger in a death spiral for over twodecades, yet relief looks like it may finallybe in sight. Bill Biedemann of Allendale Inc.

has done some research on the global supply of grainsthat is a real eye opener. He found that in 1986 theworld’s inventory of wheat, coarse grains and rice perperson amounted to 4.5 bushels. In 1999 it was 3.9bushels per person. It is now down to 2.2 bushels perperson. Poor crops, lack of planting, and increaseddemand from emerging economies like China andIndia have all contributed to the lowest inventorylevels that the world has seen in 20 years. Thequestion is, “How low can supplies go before pricesstart to rise materially?” Unfortunately, no one has thatanswer. When the price of grains finally does start togo up, the speed and magnitude of its increase willalmost certainly catch everyone by surprise.

THE ALBERTA DISADVANTAGEFor years, Edmonton and area sold itself as the bestplace in Canada to set up a business. We had lowtaxes, reasonable housing prices, a productive labourpool and, most importantly, business costs that wereunder control. That advantage is rapidly shrinking.Companies that were once lining up to build heavycrude upgraders in Fort McMurray or the Edmontonarea are now evaluating whether they should just pipethe oil to the U.S. or Eastern Canada, and finishprocessing it there. We have gone from being a low-cost jurisdiction to a high-cost one.

This is a huge economic boon we don’t want to lose.Construction jobs are great, but they aren’t long term.Upgraders provide skilled, high paying jobs thatprovide employment for decades.

LOOKING BEYOND THE U.S. FOR BUSINESSCanadians have an economic addiction: the UnitedStates. Over 70 percent of our exports go no fartherthan just south of the 49th parallel. Because America

accounts for 25 percent of the worlds GNP, Canadianbusinesses haven’t been forced to look very far andvery hard to find a market for their products, but timesare changing. Other than wanting our energy, the U.S.doesn’t need us as much as it used to. Places likeChina and India now produce many things that wetraditionally supplied to the U.S. at prices we can’teven come close to matching. Not only are Americanssourcing products from other markets, they arebecoming much more aggressive by erecting tradebarriers to keep ours out. Forest products, cattle, andgrain are just a few examples.

Like a jilted lover, we spend our time moaning andcrying about how badly we have been treated ratherthat getting out and finding a solution. A local groupthat is trying to break the cycle is the Cattleman’s BeefProcessors Ltd. It is going to set up a facility that willhandle up to 800 head of cattle or buffalo per day. Allof its products will be marketed in Europe which, I amsure, will soon learn to enjoy fine Alberta steak just asmuch as we do.

TWO BIG BARGAINING CHIPSCanadians snivel about how we get taken advantage ofby the U.S. in our trade dealings. The playing field isactually more level than most people think. We have anumber of assets that the Yanks need very badly.

America gets 41 percent of its crude oil fromdomestic sources, nine percent from Canada, eightpercent from Venezuela and Saudi Arabia, sevenpercent from Mexico, five percent from Nigeria, andfour percent from Iraq. The other 18 percent comesfrom a smattering of other places. As America’s largestsource of foreign crude supply, our importance will donothing but grow in the future. Canadian Oilsandsproduction will ramp up from one to three millionbarrels of oil per day over the next decade. That willmake Canada the only major supplier of crude to theU.S. able to meaningfully increase production in theyears ahead. As U.S. domestic output continues to fall

and OPEC producers, like Iran and Venezuela, threatento withhold oil to punish the U.S. for its politicalmisadventures in the Middle East, Canada gains apowerful bargaining chip.

The only part of the U.S. that has meaningfulamounts of untapped gas reserves is Alaska. Yet, tobring natural gas to the Lower 48, the Americans willhave to build a pipeline that will cross Canadian soil.

If they want priority access to our domestic oil and apipeline right-of-way, it seems only reasonable torequire them to give a little ground on issues that areimportant to us like softwood lumber and cattle. It willbe interesting to see how effective our governmentwill be in using these advantages to lever future tradeconcessions out of the Americans.

INTEREST RATE RELIEFAfter 17 consecutive quarter-point rate hikes, the U.S.Federal Reserve has finally decided that enough isenough. The Fed funds rate, which is a proxy forshort-term interest levels in the U.S., recently groundto a halt after rising from one percent to 5.25 percent.

Our two countries’ financial fortunes are so inter-twined that Canada’s interest rate policy is usually justa reflection of what is going on south of the border.Yet we have lower inflation, as well as budget andtrade surpluses—which the Americans do not—so oureconomy is less likely to require interest rate hikes tocure what ails it. This should make anyone with a bigmortgage or lots of consumer debt breathe a littleeasier. ✔

Ron Hiebert, a director atScotiaMcLeod, teaches investmentclasses at Grant MacEwan College.The author of Wealth Building canbe heard weekdays at 7:34 am, onCFCW radio (790 AM). Contact himat 780.497.3215 orrhiebert@edmontonians.com

GG

Alberta’s disadvantageOil’s double-edged sword

Prior to appearing before the SenateCommittee on the Canadian News Media whichpresented its final report earlier this year, RyersonJournalism Prof. John Miller studied the situationof visible minorities at 96 mainstream Canadiannewspapers. While 59 percent had entirely whitestaffs, 41 percent had diversified newsrooms. Onesignificant black eye was that of the 2,000journalists interviewed at the papers, only one wasAboriginal. Canada’s Aboriginal PeoplesTelevision Network—APTN, now celebrating its7th anniversary—hopes to change that abysmal statby providing competent journalists who will be acredit to any newsroom.

Appreciating that over half of the world’spopulation is non caucasian, it’s only natural to seean increasing number of visible minorities assumingleadership roles in Canada: Consider the appoint-ment of our new and former Governors-General, ourU of A president and the Alberta Lieutenant-Governor.

During my journalistic career in five provinces,I’ve never found a news boss who wasn’t aware ofvisible minorities, as well as those with handicaps—physical, mental or any other problems—theunemployed and the homeless. But abilities stillremain the major criteria in the journalistic hiringprocess—not the colour of your skin, your religion,or your beliefs.

The mainstream media in this city and provincehave done a phenomenal job in covering sensitiveissues, while also providing ample space for thosewith differing views. We’ve also been well servedby the ethnic print and electronic media.

Canada’s heritage has been built on incrediblecontributions by immigrants who came here fromthe UK, Scandinavia and other European countries,and the Orient. They travelled by covered wagon,homesteaded, established farms and forts, lived in

tents, tilled the soil, built railways, churches andschools… and, in 1867, established the Dominion ofCanada and an envied democratic way of life. Mostimportantly, they celebrated their differences andworked side-by-side to establish a free nation whichhas always been acknowledged by the UN as one ofthe finest in the world.

That has changed with an increasing number ofimmigrants coming to Canada from war-torn nationswhere utter hatred, discrimination and bigotry arepersonified… where women and children aremurdered by demented suicide bombers… wheretorture, decapitation and kidnappings are everydayoccurances and no one dares protest.

Earlier this year, Australian Prime Minister JohnHoward expressed concerns about some immigrantsbeing “utterly antagonistic” to Aussies. That’s whyAustralia is now telling immigrants to espouse itsway of life or don’t come. New migrants mustdenounce terrorism, learn English as quickly aspossible, endorse basic Australian values, forgetancient hatreds and prejudices of their homelands,and embrace tolerance and freedom of speech.

Should Canada follow suit? Ex-diplomat andcounterterrorism co-coordinator Martin Collacottsays yes in his report, Canada’s InadequateResponse to Terrorism: The Need for Policy Reform.It proposes that those wanting to move here shouldbe told what is expected of them. Further, those whobehave in a manner that seriously conflicts withCanada’s principles should lose their citizenship andbe removed from Canada.

At one time, such a recommendation would neverhave been considered by Canadians. The change hascome about because of anti-Western, pro-extremistelements operating within some of our communities,just waiting for the opportunity to terrorize andpunish Canadians, as has already beendone to the Americans and British. ✔

Bruce Hogle is the former newsdirector at CFRN TV and recentlyretired head of the Alberta PressCouncil.

edia Minutewith Bruce HogleMEdmonton-Denver frequency from two to three

flights daily, and indications are that the carrier willalso add a second daily flight to San Franciscobecause the route is doing so well; ditto for Delta’sSalt Lake City route. The two daily flights arepacked, and word has it that a third is planned. Theother persistent buzz, which reflects the popularity ofthe routes, is that United will switch one of its dailyflights from Edmonton to both Chicago and Denverto “mainline” aircraft, moving from regional jets(and carriers) to full-size aircraft such as 737s orA319s. The other daily flights to both cities will staywith regional jets.

The other news to be confirmed in February 2007is that United Airlines will be adding service in Mayfrom both Edmonton and Calgary to its rapidlyexpanding Washington-Dulles hub, from which thecarrier serves the eastern United States as well asEurope and beyond. The service to both cities will beseasonal, five times weekly to start, and will becomeyear round if demand exists.

WestJet has also been active, introducing non-stops to Abbotsford and seasonal non-stops toHalifax, increasing twice-weekly to daily Las Vegasservice this fall, adding four weekly non-stops toPhoenix and three weekly non-stops to Palm Springs.The smaller carriers are also getting into the act:Integra Air has added Fort McMurray to itsEdmonton-Lethbridge route, and Quik Air hasintroduced non-stops to Penticton.

All of these changes reflect the incredibleeconomic and population growth of the GreaterEdmonton region, of course, but they also are areaction to the fact that this market has beenunderserved by the major air carriers for years. The

return of Edmonton-London Heathrowservice is, to me, a most significantindicator that businesses are aware thecity is reasserting its status as a playeron the global scale. ✔

David Norwood is a freelance writer/editor.Contact dnorwood@edmontonians.com

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oo often, global trade is thought of assomething that happens amongmultinational corporations, that it isfar removed from everyday small

businesses. There is also the misconception thatglobal traders are pure profit seekers, wholly at theexpense of naïve producers in developing countries.I can safely say that is not the case with MaggieWalt, local fashion designer and businesswoman,and her partner Rob McGrath.

I first met Walt and McGrath in Indonesia—despite the fact we were all living in Edmonton—where we were involved in the garmentmanufacturing industry on the tiny island of Bali. Iwas there as an export consultant on a project fundedby the Canadian International DevelopmentAgency, and Walt and McGrath were having a newcollection sewn for their Edmonton retail store.

Over the past two years, I have been working withBali manufacturers to improve their marketing andexport development skills, and to find more buyers.Indonesia has been nature’s punching bag in recentyears, having been hit by a tsunami, earthquakes andavian influenza, as well as being threatened byvolcanic eruptions. While Bali itself hasn’t beenbattered by natural disaster, it was the victim ofterrorist attacks in 2002 and again in 2005. All ofthese factors have resulted in a decrease in newgarment buyers to the nation and have led someseasoned buyers to stayaway, severely impactinglocal manufacturers and theirstaff.

I quickly discovered thatWalt is the type of buyermost manufacturers dreamof having: consistent,willing to spend ample timeon-site, prompt in paymentand, most importantly,patient. Let’s be clear, thesemanufacturers are not thelarge factories of China orBangladesh. The typicalgarment factory in Bali isowned by a woman whotreats her employees likefamily. Production runs aresmall by industry standardsand much is still done byhand. Business practices areinfluenced by the relaxedHindu culture of the island,where religious ceremoniesfrequently halt production,fashion seasons be damned.One owner confessed to methat he probably loses up to 20 percent of his productivitythroughout the year due to these ceremonies.

Working in this environment can be challenging, but

Walt has been doing so for the past15 years, the last five under herown label, Maggie Walt. Thismonth, she celebrates the thirdanniversary of her retail store onJasper Avenue.

For Walt and McGrath, it’s notjust about producing goods morecheaply overseas: They operateunder the principle of “what’s goodfor you is good for me.” Waltspends up to six months a year on-the-road, much of it in Bali. A largeportion of that time is spent withproduction staff, educating them onWestern fashion design principles,production methods and standardbusiness practices—though gettingher manufacturer to consistentlyuse e-mail is proving elusive. Ihave seen first-hand how that kindof individual attention from aWestern buyer can transform a

developing country business and make it stand out fromthe rest. For example, Walt’s manufacturer is well-knownfor her expertise in fine fabrics and challenging designs,

expertise she developed under the patient tutelageof Walt.

The couple also travels to other destinations,always on the lookout for unique new products tobring back to fashionable Edmontonians—productsthat can be purchased according to their socialconscience. Currently, the store is stocking jewelrymade in the Ladli—loving girl—vocational trainingcentre for abused, orphaned and destitute girls inJaipur, India. These exquisite pieces are crafted byyoung women who, without the centre, would likelybe on the streets, forced into child labour orprostitution. In an effort to “try to do some goodalong the way,” an event at Walt’s store earlier thisyear raised $1,700 for an orphanage affiliated withLadli.

WHAT DO WE REALLY KNOW ABOUT THE U.S.?Ottawa’s loss is Edmonton’s gain as The HonourableA. Anne McLellan re-orients her career back towardthe law profession, now serving as counsel atBennett Jones LLP, providing “national andinternational strategic planning assistance to thefirm’s clients”.

Her expertise is also being tapped by the newlyfounded Institute for United States Policy Studiesat the University of Alberta. Its purpose is to“encourage and facilitate informed analysis anddiscussion of the policies and policy processes in theUnited States,” which will presumably allowCanadian government and business leaders to makemore informed decisions. As McLellan, who hasbeen appointed the distinguished scholar in residence,pointed out, “Canadians think we know more aboutAmericans than we really do. The country is nothomogeneous and individual states and regions areall very powerful—there is too much of a focus onWashington and the president.” To illustrate herpoint, she noted that the state of Montana, as well asPresident George Bush, supported Canada’s bid tore-open the border to Canadian beef after BSE wasdiscovered here, but other interest groups and

political bodies all played a larger, more influential role,leaving the border closed and decimating an industry.

By bringing together academics from across the continentto produce cross-disciplinary research, McLellan hopes thatthe Institute will help Canada respond to U.S. policydecisions with a more sophisticated understanding of wherethe power in the U.S. lies, and how to influence it, therebyavoiding situations like the one the Canadian softwoodlumber industry is in right now.

The fact is that despite operating and benefitingimmensely from globalization, U.S. citizens, Congress, stategovernments, trade groups and industry associations aregenerally becoming more protectionist. These ebbs andflows in favour and against global integration are notwithout historic precedent. But an ad hoc, undisciplined oruneducated approach to trade, border issues, security orenvironmental issues will always leave Canada in the dust.The information gleaned from research produced by theInstitute will help guide Canada in foreign relations with itsneighbour to the south. ✔

Cheryl Lockhart owns InternationalStrategies Ltd., specializing in export-related planning and marketing. E-mail: clockhart@edmontonians.com

By Janet Edmondson

had no idea how much garbage a move generates.Besides all the emptied boxes, there is theexcessive plastic, paper and cardboard that comeswith new purchases. When we lived in Edmonton,

I dutifully rinsed and flattened all this rubbish and hauledmy blue bag to the alley on garbage day. Not possible inCalgary: It doesn’t have curbside recycling.

Now, I could lug all this junk to one of Calgary’s 48neighbourhood recycling depots. Once there, I canwander up and down the aisle of bins, sorting myrecyclables and tossing them in. Or I could do what myEdmonton-born, Calgary-residing niece does, and bringmy blue bags back to Edmonton when I visit.

Calgary just welcomed its one millionth citizen. Thecity’s own website grumbles that, in 2002, Calgariansgenerated an average of 1.5 Kg of waste per householdper week. This equates to the weight of the CalgaryTower—11,058 tonnes—every three weeks… and that

was 100,000 people ago.Edmonton, you’ve got it easy. Curbside recycling is

available to every house, apartment and condominium* inthe city. No sorting required. Just pitch it all into the bluebag and remember to take it out on garbage day. The Citypicks it up, sorts it, and sells it to local companies thatturn it back into newsprint, insulation, shingles and rebar,among other things.

So, well done, Edmonton. You’ve been doing since1999 what Calgary hopes to accomplish by 2020. By myunscientific caculation, during thoses years, that’s aminimum of 364 Calgary Towers tossed into thelandfills? ✔

*If your apartment building or condo doesn’tparticipate in the Blue Bin program, ask your propertymanager or condo board to call Edmonton’s WasteHotline at 496-5678 to arrange for the service.

IIEdmontonian Edmontonian IN EXILE

Janet and Owen Edmondson moved toCalgary in July. Janet can be contactedat jedmondson@edmontonians.com

GREA

TER EDMONTON

INTERNATIONAL BUSINE

SS

By Cheryl Lockhart

TT

Maggie Walt in Bali dream buyer, patient tutorMaggie Walt in Bali dream buyer, patient tutorDesigner Maggie Walt

Edmonton styling

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EDMONTONIANS OCTOBER 200616

300,000 Canadianbusinesses for sale?According to a 2005 surveyconducted by the CanadianFederation of Independent Business(CFIB), 71% of those surveyed planto transfer ownership or exit theircompanies within the next five to 10years. That suggests a very crowdedmarket of sellers in the not toodistant future. Imagine roughly300,000 Canadian businesseshanging out a “For Sale” sign at thesame time. The Canadian ImperialBank of Commerce estimates thenumbers may even be closer to500,000. If such forecasts areaccurate, more than $1 trillion wouldbe needed from Canadian capitalmarkets to finance the masstransition, presuming enough buyerscould be found to buy all thesecompanies. Some stats to ponder:

• Within the next five years,about 41% of the 4,311 CFIBmembers surveyed plan to leave

their business or transfer control. • Only one-third of thosesurveyed have a succession plan.Worse still, only one-fifth of thoseplans have actually beendocumented. • Just 48% of those expecting toexit their businesses within fiveyears have a succession plan.Surprisingly, the vast majority ofthese plans have not been sharedwith the intended successor!

This could pose a considerablechallenge for many—the majority, inthis case—who have the bulk of theirnet worth tied up in their business.

Based on our experience atPricewaterhouseCoopers, there area significant number of potentialbuyers in today’s market. But astime passes and increasing numbersof retiring owners put theircompanies on the market, it isunlikely that the number ofpotential purchasers will increaseproportionately. As a result of thisimbalance sellers can expect stable

or diminishing demand in a creditmarket that’s under pressure andlower average valuations for theircompanies. In other words, the bestvaluation owners can receive fortheir company may be right now.

A number of external factorsmake this the best time forAlbertans to put a succession planinto action:

✔ Record energy prices and athriving provincial economy;

✔ Attractive interest rates; ✔ One of the most advantageous

provincial tax regimes in the country.

So, unless you’re convinced yourbusiness is riding an enormousgrowth curve that won’t peak foranother five or 10 years, there maybe no better time than the presentto set the wheels of finding asuccessor into motion. We welcomethe opportunity to share ourexperience and discuss the processwith you. Please e-mailstephen.w.kent@pwc.com or call usto arrange a meeting.

with Stephen W. Kent, CA(780) 448-9099

ACQUISITIONS, DIVESTITURES &

CORPORATE FINANCE

STILL UNDER PRICED!

Downtown Edmonton’s

only 4535 sq. ft. condo

ready for sale at

$2.1 million

Dear Edmontonians,

I have dedicated the past 38 years to helping clients buy and sell condominium homes. In 1969, I

consulted on Hyde Park, the first hi-rise condo project in Canada—right here in Edmonton. A

lot of property has changed hands over the years. But, I can assure you that this is the first

time so many high-end condos have been available at the same time.

Why? Because those homeowners who snapped up Edmonton’s prime downtown real estate during

the 1970s and ’80s are moving on—many to assisted living. Back in those days, many of the condos

were larger than the average home… space wasn’t at the premium it is today. Plus, they offered

million-dollar views of the lush river valley… and the stunning skyline has only matured with time.

Now, 30 years later, you have the opportunity to capitalize on the availability of five of the

most spectacular, most spacious condos to ever come on the market.

Two are along Victoria Promenade… in the famous red brick Arcadia where Wayne Gretzky resided.

The best of the best is a two-storey, 4435-square foot condo with expansive windows and

unencumbered views from every room.

Priced at $2.1 million, it features two master suites: One is on the main floor with a

magnificent ensuite bath, dressing room and walk-in closet; the other, on the second floor, also

has an ensuite bath. The gallery-style entry leads to the main floor living and dining rooms—

large by any standards, they afford ample freedom for entertaining. The well-appointed kitchen is

flanked by a large laundry room. Upstairs, there are two more rooms and a three-piece bathroom

with a double shower.

I also have two properties priced at $1.2 million: a 2638-square foot condo in the Arcadia; and

a 2016-square foot penthouse at 9929 Saskatchewan Drive. One River Park at 10035

Saskatchewan Drive offers a 2044 square-foot condo for $1.1 million. The fifth condo, priced at

$995,000, is 2400 square feet in Park Tower. Several other prestigious units from

$475,000 to $778,000 currently are available in Old Strathcona and the Oliver area. And I

have even more…just ask me!

Real estate is my passion. I love every minute of it. And I would be delighted to

assist you in finding your dream home.