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EDMONTONIANS SEPTEMBER 2007

umour or reality? Mary Cameronis throwing her hard hat in to the politicalarena. Reality: Word just in that theentrepreneur and co-chair of last year’s

Women Build for Habitat forHumanity is indeed seeking thePC nomination in EdmontonGold Bar. She’s currently chair ofSciMed Laboratories Inc., andpartner in Westlife Partners Inc.The candidate will be chosen onOctober 20th for the upcomingfall or spring election. Mary hasa lot of smarts and could offerincumbent Liberal HughMacdonald a spirited run.

This is Edmontoniansannual Sizzlers tribute. Don’t get mewrong… I like young people, but reading theirprofiles just tires me out—all thatenergy and smarts. And they justkeep going and going. Here’s someadditional news about a couple ofthe gals.

Holly Husel, the owner ofFreckle Creative, is reallyoutdoorsy. Her profile mentions the“four-gal/one-guy team” entered theGreat Canadian Death Race inGrande Cache and took first in theircategory. Thought I'd let you knowthe token male was Holly’s financéMichael Plante.

There’s a reason Royal Mayfairshowed so well on television and inreality for the Canadian Open LPGA Tournament.Kimberley Wagil of Best Bud’s in Oliver Square did allthe floral arrangements. A real coup.

In 2005, Carissa Reiniger published her first book,Stories from Our Black Books, described as “a series ofhilarious and riveting relationship stories from women whoplayed the dating game.” Now the avid theatre-goer hasteamed up with director Barbara Pollard to tell the tales onstage. The play debuts in Vancouver and then comes toEdmonton’s Catalyst Theatre from October 10th to 29th.

Dr. Ollie and I attended the 60th anniversaryof the Leduc #1 oil discovery at the Devon museum. Ijoined fellow columnist Chef John Berry and Gail Hall ofSeasoned Solutions to judge the annual rib cook-off.Interesting, all five teams from around the Leduc areapicked pork ribs. Hey, where’s the beef? We’re in Albertabeef country.

The Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary fromLeduc took top honours with a succulent Hawaiian Pork

Rib recipe. To add to themix, all of the teammembers came dressedin grass skirts and leis.Second place went toDevon Catering’sBrian Ferguson, andthird to the Desk andDerrick Club.

The ribs werefinger lickin’ good…I didn’t need myTums after the event.

Lawyer Jim Scott has asked me tomention what’s happening to honour the memoryof his friend Dick Paine who passed way of avery aggressive prostate cancer. He and others areraising money for a special project. “Dick and Idiscussed ways in which he could help in theearly detection of this prolific cancer. It wasdetermined that an endowed research positioncould be established at the Faculty of Medicineand Dentistry at the University of Alberta. Dick,prior to his death, made a very generous

contribution to ‘seed’ the fund.” Jim explained. “Ihope to have the Fund topped off by September, whenwe are contemplating a golf tournament, hosted by J.R.Paine & Associates Ltd, as a final celebration of meetingmy goal and Dick’s dream.” For more info, call Jim at482 5511, 446 3426 or 482 5511 or Doug Nelson at theU of A: 492 4063 or 886 5507.

I’m certainly not the most interesting oradventurous member of the board of Meals on Wheels.Take Carole Hunt, a Bennett Jones law partner: Sheand her husband Cyril were in Rwanda in January ofthis year. He took the feature picture on this page fromabout 20 feet away. Carole says, “These mountaingorillas live in the Virunga Volcano range which spansRwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic ofCongo. We were visiting in the Parc National desVolcans and encountered this group after hikingthrough dense jungle about 2.5 hours up the Mahinga

Volcano. Truly one of the coolest things we’ve done. Itwas wonderful to watch the gorillas going about theirbusiness—eating, playing, grooming one another—pretty much oblivious to us.”

Speaking of Meals on Wheels… it’s time forthe 6th annual CWB Celebrity Box Social. This is youropportunity to indulge in an almost illegal amount ofchocolate with a clear conscience. Hey, it’s for charity, atthe Fairmont Hotel Macdonald on September 21st. Thelovely and talented Bridget Ryan of Citytv has graciouslysigned on as this year’s MC. To help Bridgit explain things,we have secured the services of Rapid Fire Theatre andtheir crackerjack improvisation team. They’re very funny.

The evening is all about raising big bucks for a greatorganization: Bid on over 30 popular celebrities includingSenator Tommy Banks, Mayor Stephen Mandel or Oilerspresident Patrick LaForge. You can also bid on a numberof once-in-a-lifetime adventure packages, or over 80 uniqueitems in the silent auction. Tickets are $50, available at420-1757 or online at www.tixonthesquare.ca.

On the horn from his summer home in Vernonis erstwhile Edmontonians columnist and hospitality guy,Howard Pechet. The Pechets are quite the family: DadEugene, who turns 91 this month still resides here, built aplethora of hotels in Alberta over the past 50 years,including the Mayfield Inn and Suites—thank them forstarting dinner theatre in this burg. And, they are countedamong the founders of the Canadian Western Bank.Howard’s sons, Jason and David, recently opened thecasino in Camrose. This is not the item, of course.

Howard tells us that he picked up that famous Italianeatery, La Spiga. from Vince and Connie Coltraro whonow cook in Palm Desert. The latest purchase adds to thehotel/restaurant/casino empire… The Pechets now overseeclose to 1,000 employees. “We didn’t renovate,” saysHoward of La Spiga. “We gutted the place.” Next heconvinced Kartik Kumar from Vancouver to be head chef—not a difficult task since his wife, Sue, already owns aspa in McAuley Plaza. Kartik and Sergio, formerly of theSanta Maria Goretti community centre, will run the 80-seat,still Italian restaurant. √

Call Muggsy Forbes at 780.482.4545 or e-mail [email protected]

RRMary

Sizzler Holly

Legion Ladies

EDMONTONIANS SEPTEMBER 2007 3


sure hope my print boss Sharon MacLeanwon’t dust me for this… but I’m only a three-quarters Edmontonian now.

Last month my wife Kim and I purchased a condoin Chandler, Arizona, a rapidly growing suburb of Phoenix.Quite frankly, I can’t handle our extended wintersanymore.

The plan is to ship my motorcycles down each fall andto spend as much time as we can riding through the desert,and lounging around the pool.

Once I wind down my broadcasting career, we’llbecome half Edmontonian, half “Zonian.”

My brother Gerry and his wife Shelley, from Calgary,also bought in the same complex, so it’ll be great to finallyhook up in the same city as one of my siblings. Gerry is thetop morning man at Standard Radio‘s CJAY 92 andShelly is a big wigette at Enmax.

If you haven’t been to Phoenix, I strongly suggest youvisit. It’s a great city with wonderful things to do: stunningmountain/desert topography… great restaurants… theNBA, NHL, major league baseball, and NFL including thenext Superbowl… an amazing zoo. It’s got a ring road(101) that should be mirrored here as a model for theAnthony Henday Freeway. A great new light rapid transitsystem is being developed there, too. Real estate is a stealdown there now—57,000 homes are currently listed forsale.

On my recent Arizona turnarounds, two great ideas werevisible in the Denver and Phoenix airports that I thoughtEdmonton Airports Reg Milley might find of interest.First, there’s a special Military Suite, similar to the AirCanada/United Airways suite, where families can gatherin private to see the troops off or to welcome them backhome.

Second, virtually all the airport restaurants had signs thatoffer “15 percent off for all military families.” What a greatway to say ‘thanks’ to our dedicated military and theirfamilies. I’d love to see such a suite here or at least thediscount program for our Canadian military. Who’s first?

He’s probably too modest to blow his own horn,but my mentor—and Edmontonians columnist—BruceHogle has been notified by the Canadian Association of

Broadcasters that he will be inducted into the CAB Hallof Fame in November.

What a well-deserved honour for one of the classiestpeople I know. There are relatively few ways our industrysalutes its leaders, and this is definitely the top award aperson can receive. I can’t tell you how pleased I was tohear that Bruce is in ‘the club’ now.

In case you didn’t know, Bruce followed his father Billinto the newsroom at CFRN (now CTV); Bruce’s son Steveis the third generation Hogle news director in the big chairat the local CTVglobemedia station, but he’s leaving totake up communications responsibilities at the renownedAlberta Research Council.

I’ll be on hand for the induction ceremonies in Ottawaand will chronicle the award in a future column.

My heart goes out to the families who lostvirtually everything in the terrible MacEwan districtfire in July. I can’t think of anything worse than losing

your home and contents—your family treasures, yourcar, your comforts—in a few moments. It’s totallyamazing that no lives were lost in this tragedy.

On a positive note, it was heart warming to seeEdmontonians donating clothing, toys, furniture andother essentials to help these people rebuild their lives.

Finally, I applaud any efforts to get the ballrolling to create some positive awareness for our cityelsewhere in Canada and around the world. EdmontonEconomic Development Corp’s Ron Gilbertson hasannounced new initiatives to change our image. We dosuffer from a lack of identity and do need to be muchmore aggressive in blowing our own horn a bit moreloudly. Keeping Edmontonians magazine at theInternational Airport, by the way, is a no brainer whenit comes to Edmonton’s brand. Too bad Reg Milleyand board don’t get it; they’ve told Edmontonians toremove multiple racks by month’s end. Unbelievable!

The Edmonton Oilers also face negative perceptionsabout the city—or lack of any image—in recruitmentefforts to attract new players. The Oilers—and gamecoverage they generate—are the best mobileambassadors we have on a year round basis.

I’d love to see Don Metz share the DVD that hisAquila crew produced for the Oilers to entice potentialplayers and agents to consider Edmonton. It totallyshowcases what a great place this is to work and play.

The investment has already been made. Wouldn’t itmake sense for EEDC to cut a deal with the Oilers andMetz to use a good portion of the footage? Ditto forthe newest Citytv videos to promote its newscasts:Craig Roskin’s camera crews and editors havecaptured Edmonton in fast-paced clips that leave youwanting to be part of the excitement—and make youproud to be an Edmontonian. Really, when was the lasttime you didn’t want a commercial to end?

There’s a lot to be said for collaboration… not justbetween EEDC and top-notch local producers, butbetween EEDC and the City of Edmonton. Poolingresources and talent should be a no-brainer. Identifyingand targeting the right audiences—those that can trulyinfluence perceptions—will be the real challenge. √

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear,EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio. [email protected]

II

ow I spent my summer vacationI am very high as I write this month’scolumn—38,565 feet to be exact. Headingback to E-Town after I spent my summer

holidays on the East Coast—splitting my time betweenNova Scotia and Newfoundland. One amazing timewas had.

A big highlight was my cousin Jason Hibbs’ wedding toDanielle Rose under the big top in Portugal Cove, NL.Congrats to them both. A beautiful day with a little rainthrown in. What odds, b’y. It was awesome.

I have a few suggestions for any of you planning a tripDown East next summer:

If you’re in Nova Scotia in early August, check outDutch Mason Blues Festival in Truro. This year featuredKenny Wayne Sheppard and Buddy Guy, along with ahost of local talent. Visit dutchmason.com for details.

Unless you have a ton of time, I think a visit toNewfoundland should be separate from one to theMaritimes (Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and NewBrunswick). St. John’s is a city that lights up any givennight, but overflows during the George Street Festival.They say it has the most bars on one street in Canada… forthe festival, George Street is blocked off and she is wideopen. Bar to bar, plastic beer cups, excellent music and thefriendliest people you will ever meet.

Head out of St. John’s to the open Atlantic and hang aleft and circle The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve to BayBulls. There you will see hundreds of thousands of seabirds including puffins, murres and kittiwakes. Andwhales—I was there on the 22nd of August and saw themost whales I have ever seen in years. Capelin (or caplin)—small silvery fish, close relatives of smelt—are eaten bywhales, cod, birds and damn near anything else off theNewfoundland coast. The captain said it was strange for thecaplin to be around in such huge numbers late in August.Mind you, when my father and I were in Pangurtung onBaffin Island earlier this summer, caplin were rolling on

shore for the first time anyone could remember. Yea… thatclimate change stuff is hogwash wha?

There is so much to see and do on the East Coast it isshawkin’. As an Eastcoaster myself, all I can say is get yourarse down there. Every Atlantic province has outstandingtour guide books… just get on-line and grab one for whereyou want to go. I know the flights can be expensive, but itwill be well worth it. Don’t put it off. Drop me an e-mail ifyou are planning to go and we’ll have a chat.

East Coast and Alberta. The Edmonton Sun’smarketing guru Melissa Kubik was proposed to by Castor,Alberta’s Mannie Schinner while on vacation in NovaScotia this summer. Mannie, who owns Mad11 Inc. yourdrywall specialists, got on one knee at the end of a wharf inChester and popped the question. Congratulations toMelissa and Mannie.

Ahhh, September… hockey is back. Here wego again. New players Sheldon Souray, Dustin Penner,Joni Pitkanen and Geoff Sanderson, and new assistantcoach Rob Daum are all set to go. As James Brown usedto sing “I feel good.” I’msick of the summer’sbabbling and speculation inthe media. I want the puckto drop. I hope that EthanMoreau will be chosen asour new captain. By the timethis goes to print, the‘Captain’ announcement mayhave been made, but I thinkEthan is Oiler Heart and Souland should wear the ‘C’.

What do you think? Howabout a little straw poll? Sendyour choice for captain and tell me why [email protected]. Go Oilers Go.

Speaking of Oilers, this year’s rookie campis in Yellowknife from September 7th through 9th. This isthe first time an NHL camp will be held in the NWT. Oneof the big events is the Champions for Children Dinnerbenefiting Facilities for Kids and KidSport on Saturday, the8th. If you are inclined to head north, check out thewebsites of the Oilers or the presenting sponsor CanadianNorth Airlines.

Here’s a good gig for you later this month.The Edmonton International Film Festival, featuring the

work of Alberta filmmakers, runs from September 28th toOctober 6th. Other than seeing all the films you can, Irecommend Our Own Backyard on Sunday the 30th, from10am to 11pm at Metro Cinema. Ten films, 45 to 50minutes in length, will be screened… followed by Q & Aswith the filmmakers. Tickets are just $10 (cash only) at thedoor, and you are free to come and go throughout the day.Go to www.edmontonfilmfest.com for the details.

Did you ever go to a gala where the only foodwas what you bought with you for the donation bin? Well,here’s your chance. The No Food for Thought Gala will beheld at City Hall on Friday, September 21st from 6 ’til 10.Instead of food for patrons, restaurant sponsors will providelunch for one week for more than 300 people a day at theBissell Centre. The free evening will feature a silent auctionwith 100 percent of proceeds going toward the Centre.Local artists, celebrities and influential members of ourcommunity will create the auction items, thanks to thegenerosity of Crankpots Ceramic Studio. I’ve been asked tocrank out a pot for the cause.

It’s all part of the fifth season of Edmonton FashionWeek which invades Churchill Square and City Hall fromSeptember 24th to 28th. The area will be teeming withfashionistas, artists and multi-media entertainers. TheSquare will be a veritable hub of activity with runwaypresentations in the main tent… Fashion Alley shoppingmarket… and the Emerging Designer and Stylist Contest.And, that charity gala will also be “a visual feast work ofcelebrity-fashion photographer T.C. Reiner and localphotographers, plus a preview designer showcase ofcutting-edge outfits.” For a complete schedule, visitwww.edmontonfashionweek.com.

There is a new and second Empire Ballroom intown. We all know the magnificent one in the Hotel Mac.Now there’s one in the West Edmonton Mall—nothing likethe other. The nightclub promises an “uber-chic” Egyptiantheme, and can host 1,500 people with six bars and fourlevels. Through the wonders of technology, at the push of abutton, the room can start snowing, be filled with balloonsor glow-in-the-dark bubbles, ignite fireworks, or rainconfetti.

No… definitely, nothing like the other. I wonder how theHotel Mac feels about this same name game? √

Mark Scholz, owner of MES Communications Inc. offers avariety of services including production, creative andentertainment. For more information or to suggest a storyidea, email [email protected]

HH

Gail and Bruce Hogle joined Edmontonianspublisher Sharon MacLean and colleagues for

a celebratory luncheon at Ric’s Grill.

Ethan Moreau

4



FOUNDERDICK MacLEAN

SEPTEMBER 2007Vol. XVIII

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: [email protected]

SHARON MacLEANPublisher and Advertising Director

LEANNE YOUNGBusiness Development

Telephone: 780.482.7000Fax: 780.488.9317

e-mail: [email protected]

INSIDEVOX POPMuggsy Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Marty Forbes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Mark Scholz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

THE TRANSFORMERSParamagnus Paradox/Hanlen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Human Code/Brost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Credible Presentation/Bradshaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Magic 21 Rule/Ohlhauser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

2007 SIZZLERS INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

EDMONTONIAN IN EXILESizzler does Calgary/Edmondson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

SIZZLING TWENTY UNDER 30Weetman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-19

BARB DETERSEditor

[email protected]

COLUMNISTSLinda Banister

John BerryLinda Bodo

Tom BradshawLes Brost

Janet EdmondsonMarty Forbes

Muggsy ForbesSteffany Hanlen

Ron HiebertBruce Hogle

Greg MichettiDavid NorwoodLarry Ohlhauser

Erin RaynerMark Scholz

Nizar J. Somji

FEATURE WRITERSBarb Deters

Don HillRick LauberIan Weetman

PHOTOGRAPHERSTerry Bourque

Janis DowVinson Lim

Teresa WallstenMark Yiu

GRAPHIC PRODUCTIONRage Studios Inc.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Michetti Information Solutions Inc.

THIS MONTH’S COVER

Sizzler Jesse Lipscombe

Photo by Vinson Lim

No. 9

1818YEARS

C E L E B R A T I N G

ntil a year or so ago, I had never even heard ofpodcasting… and now I am being challenged to helpthe principals of a small business identify theirstrengths and weaknesses through this

transformational process.Paramagnus Devlopments Inc. is the only dedicated podcasting

company in Alberta, possibly Canada. FYI and directly from theParamagnus website, Wikipedia defines podcasting as “the methodof distributing multimedia files, such as audio programs or musicvideos, over the Internet using either the RSS or Atom syndicationformats, for playback on mobile devices and personal computers.”

Paramagnus is an Edmonton firm run by two bright, interestingyoung entrepreneurs, Mack Male and Dickson Wong. TheseMcNally High School and University of Alberta grads—both 23—have known each other since childhood and have worked togetheron various tech projects and presentations since 2000.

When they joined the Transformers in the boardroom of Dr.Larry Ohlhauser’s office, I got the distinct feeling that we weremeeting with the future. This could be what it felt like when SteveJobs or maybe even Bill Gates met with people of a ‘differentgeneration’ and tried to explain what they were doing.

A bit of background: In 2006, Paramagnus entered theVenturePrize competition and placed second. As I understand it,the audience watched as Mack, the president and CEO, andDickson, the vice-president, pitched their business to variousjudges—angel investors—and essentially presented themselvesright out of the money.

A number of people who saw them in action instinctively knewthey had something special, but some expressed concern theywould not be able to attract investors, venture money or capital ofany kind without some serious help. To date, the money they haveraised to build their business has been from friends and family whosee the potential and have a strong belief in these two men. At theend of the initial meeting with them, I understood why.

Dickson and Mack entered the boardroom with an air ofconfidence that surprised me. They barely glanced at theimpressive surroundings, rejected the offer of a snack or

cappuccino, and basically exuded a vibe that said, ‘let’s get on withit… time is money’.

It became clear that neither Mack nor Dickson knew who wewere or why we wanted to meet with them.

Mack walked in with the heavy footsteps of a man twice his age.A scowl on his face did nothing but mask the spark of personality,generosity of spirit and humour that resonated later… after hefigured out we were not there to embarrass them or tell them howto run their business.

Dickson has a powerful, yet serene presence which iscomplemented with a rich background in music. He’s aperformance-level violinist and earned his ARCT performer’scertificate in piano, and plays in no less than four choirs. Thisindicates to me his creativity is important to him on more levelsthan just technical aspects.

At first glance, they seem to be quite balanced and committedpeople. Mack and Dickson obviously are totally immersed in whatthey do. Focus and work ethic are two of their main strengths. Theproblem I see is they are unable to explain what they do, or toexpress their ideas in a face-to-face conversation with most peopleof a certain generation—and tax bracket—that could help themfinancially.

Paramagnus’ promotional material presents an interestingparadox:

“To be conversational is to be active in the exchange ofthoughts, ideas, opinions, and feelings. Thanks to podcasting,getting conversational has never been easier or more powerful.All of the benefits of blogging, plus the ability to share visuals,sounds, and to convey things like emotion.”This is what they are attempting to do—be

powerful and help people convey emotions.Until it is part of who they are, it may notmanifest. My goal with Mack and Dickson is tohelp them align their intention and desiredresults with their vision—just as soon as they seethe value in creating one.

We have our work cut out for us. √

UUwith Steffany HanlenParamagnusParadox

Dickson Wong and Mack MalePhoto by Teresa Wallsten

EDMONTONIANS SEPTEMBER 2007 5


ommunication at its highest leveloccurs between equals. This doesn’tmean you can assume that you and theperson you are meeting are equals.Most business relationships begin with

one of the sides having a higher status. Over time,mutual respect should evolve.

When Mack and Dickson entered the room tomeet with the Transformers, it was with greatsuspicion—almost like they had been called to theprincipal’s office.

While I realise that life in the world oftechnology views 20-somethings as middle aged,they are still dealing with the fact that, as businessprofessionals, they are young. If you total theircombined ages, they are younger than the mean ageof the Transformers. No question, these guys havehuge potential… and the ability to be world leadersin the podcasting industry. Actually, they alreadyare—technologically. It’s just that no one knowsabout them, yet. And, therein lies the rub.

Mack and Dickson will tell you they have few, ifany, communication issues. They have attendedNorth American networking events to meetpotential investors, and have no problem talking

about Paramagnus and the value it can provide.When I asked how successful they had been, adifferent truth begins to emerge.

Being honest about your communication skills isdifficult for anyone. Most entrepreneurs focus onhow comfortable they are making a presentation ortalking to individuals. While this is an importantstep, the true measure of success will come wheninvestors say, “Yes”. Ask yourself: How welldeveloped are your communication skills? Are yougetting the results you want?

Einstein likened insanity to doing the same thingover and over, expecting a different result. Theseentrepreneurs are not alone and I can only pass onthe same advice. If you do not prepare for success,how do you expect to achieve it?

At this point, I haven’t seen either Mack orDickson in action talking to potential investors, butthere were a few traits I noticed at the intakeinterview that need to be addressed.

Each has a habit of speaking with a hand in frontof his mouth. First, people really do hear betterwhen they can see your lips moving. Secondly, itsends a message that you may be hiding somethingwhich reduces your credibility.

Ask either one of them a direct question, and youget an indirect answer. Several times, their responseswere more about what they wanted to say. These areoften the “yes-but” answers without the yes but.Unless you are well polished—like somepoliticians—this can be interpreted as avoidance, ascenario that could cause a potential investor to walkaway no matter how good it sounds.

In 1960, the Speech Monographer provided thefirst statistical information on speaking success. Itfound that the information provided accounts foronly 25 percent of the decision-making process.The way the information is presented made up theother 75 percent.

With this in mind, we need to work on honing Mackand Dickson’s presentation skills. Improving theirabilities to promote themselves and their companyshould increase their credibility andleave those potential investors 100percent sure Paramagnus is worthserious consideration. √

Tom Bradshaw is the head of theAcademy of Voice & Speech. Contact:[email protected]

CC

ike most young entrepreneurs, Mack andDickson can only carve out time to meetwith me to discuss their health and wellnessafter work hours, Mack has time on

Sunday… Dickson on Monday—during the holidayweekend. They suggest Starbucks, on Jasper Avenue,so they can pop down from their Empire Buildingoffice.

Mack apologizes for arriving a bit late and orders asmall plain coffee. It is not his first and will not be hislast this long day. We had earlier talked about healthand wellness issues and, once again like most youngpeople who feel they are invincible, Mack believes thathe has no health issues, but comments that he does notexercise enough. He states, “My biggest commitmentto health is changing my drink to Coke Zero.” I informhim that the aspartame in the drink is broken down inthe liver, creating formaldehyde… the only benefit Isee is a reduction in his embalming cost when he dies.This brings a smile to his tense face, the first sincewe’ve met.

Mack completes the self assessment tool I havecreated that evaluates the factors that affect his healthand that he has responsibility for. He likes the idea thatmy program will measure outcomes—just like he doesin business—and commits to taking charge ofimproving his nutrition and level of exercise. He has

failed miserably on his nutrition self assessment. Herarely eats breakfast, and goes long hours without food,finally topping up late at night before bedtime at 1 AM.He has no exercise program: what little he does is hit-and-miss.

Dickson is waiting for me at the same Starbucks.He’s nursing his Tazo tea, busy with work he broughtalong. He is very interested in completing the selfassessment tool. While he admits he has zero time forexercise, I sense he thinks he’s in pretty good shape.He’s shocked that he scores lower on his nutritionassessment (2 out of 10), than exercise (5 out of 10).Now I have his attention. Dickson is intrigued by thechange management process we will use to get theresults he wants. He will develop a goal, action planand an evaluation process for exercise and nutrition.

Mack independently chose to focus on the samehealth factors—like minds. I see why they get along sowell in their business partnership.

I’m reminded of a seminar I held recently inWashington, DC. The prominent theme among thoseentrepreneurs was their single-minded focus on theirbusinesses and how little time they had for their healthand wellness, just like Mack and Dickson. The goodnews is that once the light went on and they understoodthat they are the greatest resource in their company andthat resource needed to be protected, every individual

chose to develop a plan to improve their health andwellness. Mack and Dickson have made the same choice.

Both have developed a goal to improve their nutritionand levels of exercise. They’ll keep a journal of theiraction plan and evaluate their progress, and I willreview it with them next time we meet. They’ll focuson the five “Fs” of healthy nutrition: First things first;a healthy breakfast… frequently: eat every three hoursin the day… fluids: at least six eight-ounce glasses ofwater a day… fibre… and fats: eat goodfats(unsaturated), some bad fats(saturated) and avoidugly fats(trans fats).

Mack and Dickson will engage in a regular exerciseprogram that includes cardiovascular exercise, strengthtraining, flexibility and balance routines. They’ll applythe Magic 21 rule: If you have the discipline to repeat agood behaviour for 21 days, it will become a habit.

Their commitment to creating a habit for this part of theirhealth and wellness program will pay significant dividendsas they take responsibility for their life-work balance—they’ll need it as theircompany grows and prospers. √

Dr. Larry Ohlhauser, MD, is the authorof The Healthy CEO and president ofOhlhauser & Associates. Contact [email protected]

LL

ack and Dickson are very bright,young businessmen with a lot oftechnical savvy, competing in aglobal and depersonalized industry

driven by contemporaries who also possesstechnical competence. How can they find the edgerequired to attract and land investor support forParamagnus?

I’ve got some Old Prairie Dog wisdom for themthat I learned from an old ranching sidekick atCoronation: “When everyone else is zigging, youwant to be zagging.”

How does this apply to Mack and Dickson? Whenhuman interaction is the exception rather than thenorm, smart folks build up their interpersonal skillset. In a world of blogging/flaming/texting and allthe other “ings”, it’s darn useful to have listeningand relationship skills that equal your technicalsmarts. Excellence in interpersonal communicationpays big dividends if you want the support ofmature investors, not necessarily comfortable withe-talk.

Dickson and Mack are off to a good start. Theyshowed the Transformers a level of poise andmaturity that is above average. But, they have tounderstand that words and body language send‘human code”—spoken and unspokencommunication that triggers responses from others.

Their initial human code signaled “defensive,apprehensive and closed”… the atmosphere in theroom was chilly and the tension hung in the air likea mist.

The reason was that they were unclear about theTransformer process… how it worked and how itmight impact their public image. Like most of us,they were uncomfortable and fearful about theunknown.

In such stressful situations, the only person wecan manage is ourselves. How do we identify andmanage the gaps in our knowledge—DonaldRumsfeld called them “the unknowns”—that causethis anxiety and drive our behaviour? We turn theunknowns into “knowns” by using the three mostpowerful tools in the interpersonal communicationtoolkit: self-knowledge, self-disclosure and thepower of the question.

Mack and Dickson can start by “takinginventory”—asking themselves how they arehonestly feeling about the situation, and identifyingthe “unknowns” that need to be clarified as quicklyas possible. Once into the meeting, they should giveeveryone their complete attention. A firmhandshake, coupled with direct eye contact, is agreat way to start. Remember, body languagespeaks louder than words.

Mack and Dickson could have lowered the

pressure on themselves by saying something like,“We’re pleased to be here, but a bit concernedbecause we are unclear about the process.”

That opening statement does two things: Itdiscloses feeling of apprehension and identifies anunknown right off the bat. It works because itconfirms what others are sensing, involveseveryone in the collaborative process of resolvinguncertainty, and encourages the same kind ofdisclosure from others.

Clearing the air generates smiles—tools theseyoung men could use more often. As our meetingprogressed, it was good to see their defensivenessmorph into high-beam smiles. What was reallyinteresting was that when they smiled, theiryouthful confidence was apparent.

I’m going to work with Dickson and Mack towrite a whole new “code” for interpersonalcommunication. They have a chance to create new“human” communication systemsthat will help them seal the deal intheir business venture. Will theyseize the opportunity? That’s whatwe’re about to discover. √

Les Brost is head of Southern StarCommunications.Contact: [email protected]

MMHumanCode with Les Brost

Magic21Rule with Dr. Larry Ohlhauser

CrediblePresentation with Tom Bradshaw

6 EDMONTONIANS SEPTEMBER 2007

Proof__1________PROOFED BY:_______________________________________________CHANGES MADE:__________________________DATE:_________________

ne of my favourite Sizzlers in 2005 wasMartin Applewhaite, rising cell phonewhiz. In fact, I nominated him that year.

“That profile stimulated a lot ofinterest—more than I was expecting, actually,” saysMartin. “Even now, as recently as last month, peoplemention that they’ve seen the article.”

His business, Omegacell Communications Inc.,specializes in cellular phones andaccessories imported fromEuropean and Asian markets.Martin’s stock of more than 90varieties of phones includes “thelatest, greatest and biggestselection”—cells for everyonefrom fashionistas to businesspeople. He even carries a $1500gold-plated Nokia.

Appreciative of the exposure theEdmontonians profile gaveOmegacell, this year Martinnominated Jenna Herbut for a spoton the Sizzling Twenty under 30group. He’s known her since shestarted Booty Beltz, and wasimpressed by the fact that, at leastinitially, she was doing everything herself.

Martin has been busy since the 2005 feature.After the success of his store in Old Strathcona,strategically located between Save-on-Foods andStarbucks, he opened a kiosk in WestmountCentre. Both sites are ‘celling’ well. He alsooffers on-line sales at www.omegacell.com.

What’s the Calgary connection? A third retailoutlet is set to open on 17th Avenue at 9AstSW in Calgary this month. Staff members—many of them satisfied website customers,originally—have been hired… furniture anddisplay cases are arrivingdaily.

Martin Applewhaite isset to show Calgary whata Sizzling Edmontoniancan do! √

[email protected]

Edmontonian Edmontonian IN EXILE

OOBy Janet Edmondson in Calgary

ver the past five years, Edmontonians has profiled 100dynamic, young entrepreneurs in its Sizzling Twentyunder 30 special editions. The tradition continues thismonth when the faces and stories of another 20 men and

women fill our pages. We call them Sizzlers. They are self-starters, promising professionals

and motivated community volunteers. They are dynamic, urban andmodern trendsetters. They frequent the hottest places—or own them.They are the products of our colleges and universities and life’sexperiences—driven by the need to succeed.

The Sizzling 20—nominated by Edmonton’s business leaders,professional associations and interested individuals—mark two aspectsof Greater Edmonton’s youthful vitality: young leaders and youngwriters. This year, Ian Weetman—a graduating journalism studentfrom the MacEwan School of Communications—interviewed thefinalists, wrote the profiles and participated in the photo sessions.

We believe that Edmontonians’ Sizzling Twenty under 30 encouragesother young Albertans to reach beyond their grasp. You can do yourpart by offering your congratulations and supporting their businessendeavours.

OO

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Greg BendallPartner, SVS Group LLP Chartered Accountants

[email protected]

Ben BlockOwner, Sundial Graphics

4403 94 Street780.436.3197

[email protected] www.sundial.com

Melissa DominelliRadio/Television Host

Producer, Actress780.440.7741/780.440.0931www.melissadominelli.com

Jim GladdenSenior Manager, Information Planning

Alberta Health & Wellness780.686.4046

[email protected]

Rohit GuptaGeneral Manager, Rohit Communities

Rohit Group of Companies780.436.9015

[email protected] www.rohitgroup.com

Kendal HaraznyPresident, TicketGold

780.288.4445/[email protected]

www.ticketgold.com

Alyssa HaunholterAccount Director, Hill & Knowlton

Suite 1000, 10180 – 101 Street780.420.1355/780.504.2523

[email protected] www.hillandknowlton.ca

Jenna HerbutOwner, Booty Beltz Inc.

11356 111 Avenue780.993.0299

[email protected] www.bootflybags.com

Vanessa HettingerOwner/Skating Coach

Hanlen Consulting/Quantum Speed 780.489.4159

[email protected] www.quantumspeed.ca

Holly HuselOwner, Freckle Creative

10332 - 81 Avenue780.432.3030

[email protected] www.frecklecreative.ca

Ted KerrPhoto Artist

Partner, Silverlining [email protected]

Jesse LipscombeOwner/Athlete

P.H.A.T. Training and Team Lipscombe780.707.4773

www.getphatnow.com www.teamlipscombe.com

Brent MagnanPresident, Comamigo Canada

203-11617 – 106 Avenue780.952.7368

www.comamigocanada.com

Alicia MaximAssistant General ManagerRuth’s Chris Steak House

780.990.0123 www.ruthschris.com

Carissa ReinigerPresident, Silver Lining Limited

780.431.2919/ 416-809-0618 [email protected]

www.silverlininglimited.com

Michael SandalukHuman Resources Coordinator

Shell Canada Scotford

Bryan SmithOwner, Bluetrain Inc.

780.628.7414 [email protected] www.bluetrain.ca

Krista TurkoMarketing Director and Senior WriterMedia-Masters Communications Inc.

202 - 10505 Jasper Avenue780.413.6999

[email protected]

Kimberley WagilOwner, Best Buds Flower Co Inc

11722 104 Avenue780.488.1302

[email protected] www.bestbuds.ca

Alex YiuPartner, Bosco Yiu Law Office

780.428.1540 [email protected]

Sizzler Martin

circa 2005

Register your 2008 Gala Charity Event Now

eing the grandson of former Eskimo great Rollie Miles doesn’tguarantee success in sports, but it certainly hasn’t hurt—

especially when you are the top ranked high jumper inCanada and within striking distance of makingthe 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Described by his wife, Shannon Tyler, as“a triple threat of the highest degree,”Jesse Lipscombe is well on his way tobecoming a legend in his own right. Notonly is the 27-year-old a world-class athlete,but also a multi-talented entertainer andbusinessman. And, with a résumé like that, it’sno wonder Jesse is living a blindingly fastlifestyle, frequently travelling from his homebase in Edmonton to athletic events and film setsall over the world.

In an e-mail written from Lucerne, Switzerland, during a breakin training for a competition in Sweden, Jesse acknowledges therole his family has played in his success. “Sports are in myblood. I first started in gymnastics at four or five, but I soonfound myself taking after my brother Curtis and my sisterDeanne in track and field instead.”

Jesse’s prowess in track eventually earned him a full athleticscholarship to Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he studiedpsychology and neurobiology.

In addition to his athletic ability, Jesse has had considerable success in theworld of entertainment, as a finalist on Canadian Idol two seasons ago, and as aformer member of local R&B trio, Jaeness. On the screen, he has had the honourof sharing scenes with the likes of Hollywood legends Sidney Poitier, Samuel L.Jackson, Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin. Now from Amsterdam, he e-mailsword that he has been cast as the host of My Green House, a new TV series oneco-living… he won’t have details until he returns.

And when he isn’t on location or at competitions, Jesse turns his attention tohis training company, Prioritizing Health and Tolerance—P.H.A.T.—which

promotes balanced lifestyles. This venture has made him a sought-after personaltrainer and coach, and a regular guest speaker at schools around Edmonton,motivating children to remain active and physically fit. Jesse is starting a coupleof new endeavours which he says “…are my most exciting to date.”

So what else is on the to-do list for this would-be Olympian who, incidentally, writessongs, plays and children’s books...and often appears on Citytv’s breakfast show?

“Personally, I see little Jesses running around and a super happy home. “Whatmore could a man want?” √

Jesse LipscombeOlympic hopeful, entertainer, entrepreneur

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7EDMONTONIANS SEPTEMBER 2007


eing fresh out of journalism at Grant MacEwan College, I only had a vague ideaabout what hard work really is. Spending long hours writing papers for classes is

one thing—actually taking on a project such as the 2007 edition of the Sizzling Twentyunder 30 and bringing it to life is something entirely different.

Four months ago, I walked out of the classroom for the last time. All I needed to collectmy diploma was to complete my internship at Edmontonians. When I first started reading thethick stack of biographies handed to me by Barb Deters, my wonderful and supportive editor, Imust admit I felt quite intimidated. From an aspiring Olympic athlete and actor to artistsand designers… from technologically gifted individuals to millionaire entrepreneursthree years my junior and everyone in between, time and time again I was left inawe of the sheer talent that our city has produced.

There were added challenges to that of writing 20 distinct profiles. Myavailability was a snap compared to the busy days the Sizzlers have… and, beyondthe interview process, I had the responsibility for coordinating photo sessions thatsuited everyone’s schedule. The level of cooperation was heart-warming.

And now, looking back, I realize I have been blessed to have had therare opportunity and privilege to interview some of the most fiercelyintelligent, ambitious and hard-working people I have ever met.

If the 2007 Sizzlers are any indication, it can safely be said—howevercliché it may sound—that the future of Edmonton is truly in goodhands. √

Ian WeetmanProfiler

RareOpportunityPhoto by Terry Bourque

BB

BBTriple Threat�



he Scotford oil upgrader isn’t a placeyou would normally expect to find

an artist in residence, but Ted Kerrknows better. For five weeks last fall,the 28-year-old was granted unlimitedaccess to the Shell Chemicals facility tophotographically document andinterpret the on-site lives of itsworkers, whom he describes asAlberta’s unsung heroes.

“The people who work there arean amazingly interesting and

diverse group from across theglobe… I was glad to haveseen [them] with my owneyes,” says Ted.

An exhibition of hislarge-scale images takenat the plant, and billed as

“…the interconnection thatexists between people and

place, land and technology”was showcased during TheWorks International Visual

Arts Festival this summer. Ted is a self-proclaimed “urban

explorer” who still shoots with filmand has made “out-of-focus” an art

form. His photo-based artworkshave been displayed at Latitude 53,the Milner Gallery, Listen Records,Red Ribbon and the southsideSugar Bowl. Ted’s website is avisual journey into the souls of

his subjects… into corners of the city few peoplewould give a second glance… into the culturalcollage of the community. He’s been known todeclare, “Edmonton is awkward and it is beautiful.”

This multi-talented and self taught artist is theco-creator, with partner Eric Mooney, ofSilverlining, a handbag and personal accessory lineavailable at select boutiques across WesternCanada. As an added dimension to his artistic bent,Ted is a member of the Mile Zero Dance companywhich seeks to educate and liberate Edmontonthrough dance.

Committed to educating locals about our city’svast cultural diversity, he’s organizing Exposure-aqueer arts festival, which will take place inNovember. Ted is also HIV Edmonton’s volunteercoordinator, and was instrumental in the successfulroll-out of AIDS Awareness Week. Having traveledinternationally, he provided his perspective on theNextGen committee, a City-organized gathering ofyoung people who discussed and recommendedways to entice the city’s youth to stay inEdmonton.

“As a proud Edmontonian, I can say there is noneed to leave,” Ted reflects. “People always thinkthings are better elsewhere, but it’s true of any city.

“It’s not where you are… it’s what you make of it.” √

“Tedmonton”

Photo by Terry Bourque

ho would think driving around in a van and setting upbeer displays could inspire a fashion accessory line.

When Jenna Herbut was doing a summer internshipwith Labatt Breweries a few years ago, she had an idea.“I had a lot of extra time on my hands between stops, soI got to thinking what my next project should be… that’swhen I thought of starting an accessory line,” recalls the26-year-old University of Alberta business graduate.

Jenna had gained insightful knowledge ofwhere Edmonton’s best thrift shops werelocated, and recognized them as herprimary source of vintage scarves andbuckles to create sash belts. Herbusiness, cheekily named BootyBeltz, was born.

Undaunted at having no experiencein the design or fashion business, Jenna

trusted her sense of style and trends. She

was determined to make her company work despite her admittedly crudefirst attempts at sewing.

“Looking back, it’s kind of like when you made something inkindergarten and you think of how proud of your work you were at thetime… but now you can see how bad your efforts really were,” laughsJenna. So, she hired stay-at-home moms to sew the sashes.

Learning from her setbacks, Jenna’s three-year-old company hasgrown quickly from a single line of hand-made sash belts sold at localboutiques and events like the Fringe Festival. She has diversified toinclude Bootyfly Bags—many reversible with interchangeable straps—plus Fuschia—an accessory line of floral themed pins, pendants and headbands—all available across Canada, the United States and Japan, and on-line.

Having her products professionally sewn in Calgary frees Jenna’s timeto put her marketing background to good use, producing local fashionshows—many for charity—which she says are key to creating a viabledesign industry in Edmonton.

“When I first started out, sewing alone in my parents’ basement, I feltlonely and isolated. But through local events, I have been able to tap intoa vast network of people who want to show the world that our city hasmajor fashion potential.”

Jenna’s passion, hard work, creativity and success are a rags to richesstory—literally—with a happy ending. √

Jenna HerbutFashionista

Ted KerrArtist, advocate

Richesto

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Photo by Teresa Wallsten

he night her father was killed in a tragic car accident, Holly Husel had a revelation. “As Iwatched my grandfather share the news with my mom… I knew at that moment that Ihad to step up, take care of my mom, and honour my father every day of my life.” She

had just turned seven three days earlier. After graduating from NAIT’s marketing program in 1999, Holly went on to the

University of Lethbridge Edmonton Campus to earn a Bachelor of management degree in2003. That same year, she launched Freckle Creative—Distinctive Marketing & Design.

Freckle? “Oh that… when I was little, I was really self-conscious about my freckles—especially one on the end of my nose. But my Auntie told me that it was my ‘lucky mark’.Now I tell clients the new logos we design are their lucky marks.”

In the early days of Freckle, 80-hour weeks and creative multi-tasking became secondnature. “There were often times I was changing my clothes while driving between the

office and soccer practice,” laughs Holly. “At a red light, off came heels and on went thecleats.”Holly’s company has grown to six employees and accrued an impressive list of clients that

range from small businesses to billion dollar corporations to provincial governmentdepartments and everything in between.

The 27-year-old is actively involved in Edmonton’s United Way, and sits on thecommunications committee of the GO Community Centre, a proposed $36-million multi-use training facility at John Fry Park. Holly also enjoys giving monthly lectures on the artof creating feasible business plans and marketing strategies to would-be entrepreneurs atthe Microbusiness Training Centre.

The self-described “truck-driving outdoor girl” likes to spend her downtime playing ontwo soccer teams, 4x4 off-roading, and training for the Great Canadian Death Race atGrande Cache on the August long weekend. Another success: Holly completed her 19

kilometre segment in two hours; the four-gal/one guy team was first in their category with awinning time of 17 hours.

But no matter how busy she is, Holly remains a dedicated daughter, never forgetting thecommitment she made 20 years ago.

No question: Holly’s father would be proud of his freckle-faced little girl. √

Holly HuselDistinctive designer

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ime truly flies when you are doing what you love,” confesses Vanessa Hettinger. “I completely believe my dad when he said that university is great because it’s something that can’t be taken

away from me—and it’s a solid base on which to build a future—but that I should always follow my heart.” Vanessa graduated with a BA in political science and economics, and a certificate in globalization and governance, but

it was her passion for coaching that kept her on the ice, even after her playing days with the U of A Pandas were over. For the past five years, the 26-year old has been a business partner of Steffany Hanlen in Quantum Speed. The company

motto is simple: “Technique plus power equals speed.” The high performance skating system—designed for hockey and ringette players—focuses on developing

full-body motion techniques that translate into stronger, more powerful movement. With improvedskills, the players skate faster and smarter.

And, with a growing client base ofamateur and professional players whoseages range from six to 24, Vanessa iswell on her way into making QuantumSpeed a nationally recognized training

program that is both results-oriented and player-centred. It is recommended andcontracted by the top coaches, scouts and players in Canada and the U.S. A Colorado coach described it as, “The best and most comprehensive performance skating clinic Ihave ever seen. They completely evaluated players from skate fitting to their stride… They knowskating and how to get players to reach their maximum potential.”Following her heart also means giving back to the community. Vanessa collects toys for Santa’sAnonymous and, given her interest in government, volunteers as a polling clerk during elections. She enjoystraveling, golfing and tried whitewater rafting with her family this summer.

Perhaps partner Steffany best captured the very essence of Vanessa: “She is professional, motivated, creativeand talented… a role model for hundreds of children and adults across North America.

“Her energy and enthusiasm inspire—and exhaust—her peers as well as her family, friends and co-workers.” √

ow do you cast your shadow? Intoday’s media-rich, over-marketedworld it is not easy to get noticed.

It is a time-consuming and difficulttask to make your mark, or ‘castyour shadow.’”

These words are the opening linesof the promotional material forSundial Graphics, founded by 27-yearold Ben Block.

He recalls how two ideas melded to

create his own brand and slogan.“When I started the company back in

1999, I wanted a name that reflectedour ability to help businesses promotethemselves in the old medium ofprint as well as the new on-lineuniverse. So I asked myself, ‘Whatcasts a shadow that is timeless?’Then I remembered the sundial.”

The firm offers integrated design packages—everything from logo development to web pages topromotional merchandise—to a growing list of localand national customers. One client, landed bychance, is the popular HGTV reality series,Restaurant Makeover.

“I’m an avid fan of the show, but I always wonderedwhy these mom-and-pop cafés were using those hokeyphotocopied menus after their makeovers, so I sent theproducers an e-mail one Saturday,” explains Ben. “ByMonday, I got a call asking me if I wanted to sign a 10-episode deal.”

Though the 2004 U of A business grad is a successfulentrepreneur, Ben is never content to just do one thing: Hewent back a year later and enrolled in law school. “Even if Inever practice a day, it’s a personal goal which I am proud tosay I have nearly achieved.“

Balancing both school and a rewarding career keeps Benpretty busy six days a week… but he makes time to cast hisown shadow over the Rainbow Valley Ski Area, where he sitson the board of directors. It’s a place near and dear to hisheart. “Rainbow Valley is where I learned to ski, and where Iworked as an instructor for many years and, every time I goback, I still get a twinge of nostalgia.”

If his company’s motto is any indication of his ownsuccess, it can safely be said, mission accomplished. √

Ben BlockDialed-in


Vanessa HettingerMaximum heart

SPEEDSPEEDSPEEDTechnique+Power=

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s soon as customers walk through the door of Best Buds Flower Company,they notice something special sitting next to the cash register: a big jar of

freshly baked cookies. “If you’re buying a gift for someone else, shouldn't you also get a treat yourself?”

asks Kimberly Wagil, the 25-year-old shop owner—and the source of thosetantalizing Oatmeal-Raisin Roundies.

Three years ago, her sister Cynthia was working at Best Buds, and needed to takea leave of absence. Kimberly, a bible school student at the time, was asked if shecould fill in for a while. She agreed and soon found flower arranging fun andfulfilling, so she decided to stay on full time.

When Best Bud’s owners decided to retire a few monthsago, they offered to sell the shop to her. It was an offer shecouldn’t refuse. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Well-situated in Oliver Square West,between London Drugs and Office Depot,Best Buds enjoys a fair amount ofwalk-in traffic, mostly by arearesidents. The majority ofcustomers are offices downtownand nearby. “There’s alwaysbirthdays and anniversaries, thank-you bouquets to clients, personalorders and,” what Kimberly calls,“just-because orders.” And, sheloves the challenge andcreativity—“the good part”—of coordinating weddingpackages.

In addition to running a successful flower shop, Kimberly remains active in herchurch as well as the community at large. She regularly donates floral arrangementsand gift certificates to various fundraisers and charity events, including EdmontonRotary Club’s annual event, Dance for the Kids. “Obviously you can't say yes toeveryone who asks, but you do what you can.”

Although Best Buds currently has only one location in Oliver Square, Kimberlyhopes she can find the time and energy over the next few years to opening morelocations across the city. “As soon as I have a few more years experience under my

belt,” she adds with a smile. More shops… Hmmm… more signature

cookies. √

Kimberly WagilFlour power

Photo by Teresa Jane Wallsten

hat drives Rohit Gupta isn’t a desire tobe wealthy or influential. By all

accounts, he has already achieved both. No, whatdrives him is a desire to continually raise the bar—

personally and professionally… for himself and hisfamily-operated property development firm.

Under his leadership, annual revenue at theRohit Group of Companies has grown from $32

million in 2002 to a whopping $90 million today,and is on track to generate $140 million next year.

“It could be a bit higher or lower, depending onhow fast we get approval for a new $50-millionproject,” explains the 28-year old generalmanager whose concept of Rohit Communitiesis garnering accolades in Edmonton, SherwoodPark, Fort McMurray and the Okanagan.

Earning a BSc in computer engineering andan MBA has given him the foundation thathelped contribute to unprecedented expansion

of the company, but Rohit admits he hasn’t always succeeded atevery job he has held. It’s his determination and ability to reboundthat turned a small business into a major corporation. He says“…I don’t let any of my previous mistakes stop me from trying tobe the best businessman I can.”

To Rohit, the key is to be both a great visionary as well as astrong financial manager which he says, at times, can conflictwith each other. “More than once I have had to deal with myarchitects over projects where the finances and the vision didn’tmatch up.” He has created a niche in the industry and anempowering internal culture, surrounding himself with experts andallowing them to shine.

And, part of that culture is to give back to the community. Inaddition to serving on the board of directors for the Alberta NewHome Warranty Program and the Alberta chapter of Delta Chi,Rohit contributes both time and money to many worthy causes,encouraging employees to participate. This year, that includes theInternational Children’s Festival, the Fringe, and a three-yearsponsorship with the Heritage Festival Foundation. His family hascreated a $100,000 sustainable fellowship fund at the StolleryChildren’s Hospital in honour of his late brother, Neil Gupta.

Long, productive days end with a game of squash and time withhis girlfriend Angelina, family and friends. His lighter side isevidenced by his enjoyment of arguing useless topics—like whichfictional alien was cooler, ET or Alf? According to Rohit: Alf! √

Rohit GuptaThinking outside the matrix

Visi naryVisi nary


WW

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s the old saying goes, every dark cloud has a silver lining. For 25-year old Carissa Reiniger, her dark cloud was a lifelong battle to overcome shyness that

eventually led to a million dollar business. It also happens to be the name of her company, Silver LiningLtd.

Due to her extreme shyness, Carissa remained home-schooled until Grade 10, when her family decided tosend her to public school. She took a novel approach to making new friends and finding a reason to strikeup conversations with total strangers: She put her name forward as a candidate for student government.

Little did she know her plan would propel her into the spotlight. “When I was announced the winner, Iwas so shocked,” reflects Carissa.

Her struggle with shyness spurred her to study psychology at the University of Alberta, where shegraduated with a BA in 2004. Further testing herself, she moved to Toronto where she didn’t know anyone.After working for a couple of large advertising and marketing firms, Carissa bit the (silver) bullet and

launched her own business planning and management firm. And, in just 18 short months, Silver Lining Ltd has expanded from a one-person shop to four offices—

Toronto, Edmonton, Vancouver and Las Vegas—with 16 employees, all older thanCarissa. Her success has earned her the distinction of being one of the youngest

women in Canadian business history to run a company with annual revenues

exceeding a million dollars—a goal achieved in 2006. Ironically, Carissa is now managing a burgeoning career as a motivational

speaker, often addressing hundreds and sometimes thousands of people. She’salso uber involved in businesswomen’s organizations and various charitableendeavours.

Having self-published her first book on women’s relationship stories, titledStories from Our Black Books, Carissa and her staff are busy putting thefinishing touches on a second about how to grow small businesses, slated forrelease later this fall.

No stranger to airports and living out of a suitcase, Carissa sometimesstruggles to find a balance between working and downtime. But she findsthe time to follow her secret passion, theatre:

“…No matter where I am, my company always has season tickets.” √

Carissa ReinigerPurely motivational

Shy no more


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hile most 18-year-olds with a borrowed creditcard would go on a wild and reckless spending

spree, Kendal Harazny was different. Instead of buyingfrivolous gadgets and gizmos, the former Regina residentused the opportunity to start a small business.

Four years ago, when Kendal won concert tickets from aradio station, he put the tickets up on eBay to pay for asnowboarding trip. Within hours they sold—for a goodprice. It gave him an idea: Buy tickets for in-demand eventsand resell them online for a profit. His friends thought theconcept was killer… his parents were less than thrilled.

“They are very risk adverse,” explains Kendal, “so whenI asked them to use their credit card at the start, theywere quick to say no.” Luckily, an oldercousin loaned him a card with a $4000

limit. TicketGold came to pass as a full service, licensedticket brokerage. Slated to top the million-dollar mark inrevenues this year, the company employs 16 full and parttime staff.

This success allows the full-time U of A business student,now 22, the luxury of driving a black Hummer H2 to class.

In addition, Kendal‘s keen business sense earned him the2006 ACE—Advancing Canadian Entrepreneurship—CIBC Canadian Student Entrepreneur of the Year award.He’ll represent Canada at the global competition in Chicagoin November. The recognition prompted multiple job offers,but Kendal intends to retain a lucrative share of TicketGold,regardless of the other opportunities.

“I am also a firm believer in a well-roundededucation. Any student can sit in

the library all day and get a 4.0, but the students who aregoing to be leaders and innovators are the ones who getinvolved in conferences, community events andcompetitions.”

Kendal volunteers with Junior Achievement and a varietyof university organizations, including serving as co-chair ofRoundTable ’08 which will welcome Canada’s top businessstudents to Edmonton. Along with three friends, he onceslept outside during 5 Days for the Homeless, raising morethan $25,000 for the Youth Emergency Shelter Society.

Long-term plans? Kendal imagines lying on the beach onthe French Riviera in five years. “It may not be realistic, butI would rather be on a beach than in an office.”

Given his early financial success, his dream could bethwarted by his entrepreneurial passion and spirit. √


Kendal HaraznyTicket to success

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elping employees reach their full potential is job number onefor Michael Sandaluk.

As a human resources advisor with Shell Canada, he isresponsible for finding and retaining the best and the brightestworkers in upwards of 650 positions at the Scotford upgrader andrefinery near Fort Saskatchewan.

Growing up, Michael was undecided about what he wanted to dowith his life. That is, until he spoke to others in the personnel fieldand saw what they did. “I knew I wanted to be in a job where I got towork with people, and HR seemed like a perfect fit,” recalls the 28-year old.

To make that dream a reality, Michael went to the University ofAlberta, graduating in 2001 with a major in psychology and a minor inclassics.

After a brief stint at Coca-Cola, he joined the Shell HR team in 2004where he has found his niche. Michael’s job of attracting a broad rangeof employees is made easier by the benefits Shell provides: a strongtotal compensation including pay and pension benefits, a career withcontinuous learning and development opportunities as well as anexceptional work environment emphasizing the highest values ofdiversity, ethics and personal responsibility. He proudly points out thatShell Canada was named by Macleans Magazine as one of the top 100employers in Canada.

At home in Sherwood Park, Michael enjoys time with his wifeColleen—a 2004 Sizzler—and their two young children. He is alsoan active volunteer for the United Way, and the Cross CancerInstitute, explaining that “…although nobody in my family hasdied from cancer, it’s an illness that affects so many other peoplethat I wanted to help as much as I could.”

For Michael, Shell Scotford isn’t only about upgrading and refiningbitumen from Alberta’s oilsands, but also about upgrading and refining the skill setsand values of its employees—part of his mission for his colleagues and his goals forhimself. √

Michael SandalukHigh performance


HH



n an age where globalization and the Internet havemade the constraints of time and place largely

irrelevant, Alex Yiu can truly be considered a citizenof the world.

The 2006 U of A law school grad’s life revolvesaround different cultures and communities—locallyand globally.

Alex was a co-founder of the International LawSociety at the U of A, organized in 2004 to promoteawareness and understanding of international politics,human rights and study opportunities overseas. “Ifound the society was a perfect way to bring togethermy passions for both the law and for helping others,”reflects Alex.

As an under-grad, he served on the Youth Council asliaison between the Aboriginal community and the Cityof Edmonton, and was French program coordinatorwith Students for Literacy. A landmark in his volunteercareer was joining the Red Cross relief effort after theBoxing Day 2005 tsunami which killed an estimated25,000 people in coastal regions of Southeast Asia.“When I saw the devastation on the news, like mostpeople, I naturally asked myself what I could do.”Unable to fly to the region to help with ground efforts,Alex put his fundraising skills to good work as a localfund development officer.

Now, as a friend-raiser for Norquest College—hecalls it “a hidden jewel”—he is committed to

identifying partnerships, raising money,and elevating its profile. Alex is especiallysupportive of the role Norquest plays in thelives of many new Canadians by offeringcourses to upgrade their language skills thatwill assist them in re-qualifying in their chosenprofessional or trades fields.

In keeping with his interest in the world aroundhim, Alex is keen on travel with trips to China,Australia, the United States and Western Europeunder his belt. He has his sights set on visitingEastern Europe and Africa, with a second tourof France in the works.

With all of his experiences, bothpersonal and professional, it’s nosurprise he loves to learn newlanguages—definitely an asset onvisits to Paris, Moscow orTimbuktu.

By the way, did we mentionAlex is a partner in Bosco Yiu lawoffice? And a Big Brother? √

Alex YiuInternational law man

Photo by Mark Yiu

inding a sustainable life/work balance isn’t easy for Alyssa Haunholter… but she’s working on it. During four years at the University of Alberta, she double-timed as a full time student and

owner of a house painting business. “I have always had an independent and entrepreneurialspirit—and more than anything, I have always welcomed a challenge—so I started a company that

gave me the freedom to succeed or fail on my own merit,” explains Alyssa.After graduating in 2003 with a BA in sociology and political science, she did a

brief stint in the records department of the Alberta Union of Public Employees,before she became executive assistant to Iris Evans, then minister of Health andWellness—a time she remembers with fondness.

“She encouraged me to develop my skills as an advisor, a mentor, a criticalthinker, and a decision maker. She opened my eyes to my own capacity andstrengths. She was, and continues to be, an amazing mentor. The opportunity towork with her and such amazing people was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Since February, the 27-year old has parlayed her experience ingovernment into the position of public affairs account director for Albertawith the public relations and strategic communications firm of Hill andKnowlton.

While Alyssa admits to being a workaholic, this politically activeyoung woman made time to sit on a committee with the Alberta Councilof Women’s Shelters alongside former mayor Jan Reimer, Iris Evans,

Judy Schultz and Linda Goyette, among others. Their collaborationresulted in the publication of Standing Together.“We looked at stories from around the province of women who have

suffered abuse, and compiled some of the most inspirational and empoweringstories of women who found a way to stand up and take control of their lives.

The process was emotional, but inspired hope.”Although her Blackberry rarely leaves her side, Alyssa is learning to relax and

refocus her energies. She practices Yoga and, as often as possible, surroundsherself with friends, family, good wine and even better conversation. She’s also an

avid traveler—or hopes to be. Alyssa concludes, “I’m in need of a holiday.” √

Alyssa HaunholterPolitical savvy

WorkaholicPh

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by T

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WorldlyWorldly



oosely translated, Comamigo means “call a friend” inSpanish. So, thousands of customers across North America

who are saving up to half off their monthly phone bill shouldcall to thank Brent Magnan.

He is president and founding partner of ComamigoCanada, a distributor of Voice over Internet Protocol—

VOIP—technology, which, according to ForbesMagazine, is one of the 10 most likely technologies

to revolutionize the world.

Had you asked Brent what hewanted to do with his life a fewyears ago, managing an IT companywouldn’t have been on his list.“Coming out of high school, I wasactually heading toward a career inEnglish or science.” After his firstyear of university studyingengineering, he admits, “I just didn’thave the ‘engineering personality’…and I really wasn’t crazy aboutstaring at a circuit board for 10 hoursa day either.”

So, he applied to the University of Alberta School ofBusiness, graduating nearly debt free in 2006, by virtueof winning the three-year Harold B. BannisterScholarship, awarded to the student with the highestaverage entering first year business. Brent fondly recallsreceiving that fateful letter. “When I found out I won thescholarship, I was running around the house, jumping upand down and screaming like a maniac… as were myparents.” He excelled in all study areas, includingfinance, marketing, information systems and accounting.

With Comamigo just over a year old, Brent says thecompany is on track to its five year goal of 60,000customers. He currently manages more than 100dealerships that offer his VOIP service across Canada.He’s working 80 hours a week trying to buildComamigo into a worldwide brand, with plans to expandinto the U.S., UK and Australia. Brent also conductsseminars and lectures with Youth One, a one-stop referalservice.

But there’s another, more adventurous side to thisyoung entrepreneur: He’s an avid and accomplishedboarder—snow and wave—and diver—scuba and sky.These exploits are duly recorded in the documentaryfilms he has created.

When he does reach his corporate goal, Brent willreward himself by kicking back on the beach, sippingtropical drinks in the sun.

“To me, that’s what living really is.” √

FRIENDCall aPhoto by

Terry Bourque

Brent MagnanVOIP man

ong hours at the office have never bothered Jim Gladden.By now, that’s par for the course for the 28-year-old IT

specialist. He was determined to upgrade his education whilemaintaining a full time career.

Not wanting to give up his day job or leave Edmonton, Jimgot creative and found the solution to his problem on-line.Through distance learning, he was able to hold down a job, andachieve his academic goals—all without taking out a singlestudent loan or dollar in credit.

Nonetheless, his efforts did come at a price. “On a typical day I would go the office at 8, work until 5, and

then stay at my desk studying until midnight. Then I would gohome, sleep for a few hours, come back and do it all again.”

Despite the long hours and a chronic lack of sleep, hisdedication and hard work paid off, earning Jim his Bachelor andMasters degrees in business administration. As someone whothirsts for knowledge, he also has attained several IT specialistdesignations: Project Management Professional, InformationSystems Professional and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer.To top it off—so far, anyway—he has taken graduate certificatesin leadership and management from the Harvard School ofBusiness and Cornell University.

Jim has worked for a number of major firms, and recentlybecame the senior manager of information planning at AlbertaHealth & Wellness. Married for just over a year, he can finallyenjoy more time with his wife Dana, going on bike rides as well as

spending time outdoors at the family summer cottage nearWabamun. Jim also volunteers for the Canadian BloodServices as part of theirDonor Phoner campaignwhich encourages previousdonors to give blood again.

And twice per week heteaches at the NAITSchool of Business,where his combinationof age and youthfullooks often leaveshim in strangesituations.

“It’s happenedmore than once…on the first day ofclass, my students thinkI’m one of them ratherthan their instructor,”laughs Jim. √

Jim GladdenIT specialist


LL

LLKNOWLEDGE JUNKIE



ost of us can only dream of escaping snowbound Edmonton for anall-expenses paid trip to the Caribbean. But, 22-year-old KristaTurko took a novel approach to making it a reality.

Her mid-March trip to the small island nation of St. Vincent and theGrenadines was not all sun, surf and sand: She headed up a crew of six onbehalf of Media-Masters Communications to film a $200,000 promotional video.

“The project started when I wrote an unsolicited proposal for a marketingcampaign, which I sent to 20 different Caribbean nations,” says Krista, the firm’smarketing director and senior writer. “While 18 of them declined and one saidmaybe, the ministry of tourism for St. Vincent said yes.”

Little wonder former instructor Marion Kowalevsky refers to Krista as her “best student inthe last 10 years… a role model.” The 2006 graduate of NAIT’s marketing program is busywriting film scripts, jingles and ad copy for clients, including Edmonton Cellular, Nokia,Save-on-foods, Land Rover and Microsoft, to name just a few.

Recently, Krista—a Jewel-like self-taught singer and songwriter—was given thechance to record her first CD. “We were actually finishing up recording acommercial when the engineer asked me if I wanted to jump in the booth with myguitar and lay down a few tracks… so I did, even though I’m still a bit rusty.”

Krista has no immediate plans to become a full time musician, preferring toconcentrate on film-making, a passion fuelled during her trip to St. Vincent.“After being able to work behind the camera down there, I’d love to be able tomake more films in the future, and some day I’d love to have my own filmproduction company.”

While most of her trips abroad are business, the Stony Plain native is eagerlylooking forward to one of a different nature. In November, Krista will head forGhana in West Africa to build houses with Habitat for Humanity.

“We’ll be sleeping outside under mosquito nets and using a pit latrine…which is going to take some getting used to,” adds Krista with a laugh.

That’s a wrap on the interview—but definitely not on a promisingcareer. √

Krista TurkoMarketing “jewel”

CreativeEscapes


MM



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reg Bendall is a true Edmontonian. He’s the fourth generation of his family to live in the capital…

the great-grandson of James MacDonald—a City alderman from 1914to 1917—the historical figure after whom one of our major bridges isnamed.

Greg also has the distinction of being the youngest person to everbecome a partner at SVS Group Chartered Accountants, a process thattraditionally takes many years of practice. It’s an accomplishment thatattests to his professionalism and ability, and an indication that he isclearly ahead of the curve relative to his peers.

The 27-year old attributes a lot of his success to his understandingwife, Rowena. “She has put up with me putting in some long hoursover the years,” admits Greg.

After earning a BComm from the University of Alberta in 2001, hearticled with SVS for a year, and obtained his CA designation shortlyafter.

While tax season sees accountants putting in hundreds of hours,throughout the rest of the year there are plenty of opportunities for Gregto keep active and involved.

“After attaining my CA designation, I wanted to give back to theprogram which I felt really helped me, so I became an on-linefacilitator. As facilitators, we aren’t there to mark student assignments;instead, we are there to help guide students through the 10-weekmodules.”

In addition, Greg serves on the specialprojects committee of the City of Edmonton’sNextGen group, whose mandate is to identify andrecommend ways to attract and retain residentsbetween the ages of 18 and 40. He’s also an advisor tothe board of the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation,a coalition of 40 volunteer sector organizations thatinclude Engineers without Borders, HIV Edmonton,UNICEF and the YMCA.

On the home front, there’s no shortage of projectsfor Greg. “My wife and I have a house that is nearly100 years old, so it seems like there are alwaysthings to do.”

He may never have a landmark named afterhim. But, through commitment to his professionand his community—traits shared with great-grandfather MacDonald—Greg will leave hisown mark on the city he calls home. √

Greg BendallBridging the generations

s a child, Melissa Dominelli's “motor mouth” would get herinto trouble. But now, the 22-year-old is putting her superior

verbal skills to use as a radio personality and television host. “I’m a non-stop talker,” confesses Melissa. “So even though I

got into trouble in school for talking too much, I definitely thinkit's helped me now!”

Getting her big break wasn’t easy. The nativeEdmontonian and 2005 graduate of NAIT’sTelevision and Radio Arts program knew she

had to attract the attention of producers,Melissa didn't hesitate to pack up her things and

relocate to Toronto to intern for CHUMTelevision’s international department. She gained

valuable behind the scenes experience for showslike the Muchmusic Video Awards and The Junos.

After a brief stint as an entertainment reporter andanchor on Rogers Television, Melissa returned home to

work for Access Television as a host and segmentproducer on Help TV.

Currently, she is a weekend DJ on local pop music station 91.7FM, The Bounce and, since her Toronto days, she has been a host andproducer for tdottv.com, one of Canada's fastest growing on-lineentertainment channels. Melissa recently branched into acting withher first role in End of Life, an independent short film shot lastDecember.

In her role on HelpTV, Melissa assisted viewers in coping witheveryday issues. That’s a persona Melissa takes outside the studio tohost and support a diverse range of events and fundraisers—fromArtists Emerge national hip-hop competition for young dancers toSafeway’s Because We Care campaign for kids with cancer… fromvolunteering for Kids in the Hall Bistro to delivering Christmashampers.

Though she is uncertain what the next five years hold for her, Melissadoes have some advice for others who are undecided about their chosencareer path.

“At the end of the day, we allhave to find what makes ushappy… so when you figurethat out, the rest of the journeyis that much easier.”

For Melissa, that meansusing her gift for gab toeducate and entertain. √

Melissa DominelliGifted gabber


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ccording to Ruth’s Chris Steak House, “Sizzle is a state of mind, anattitude, a personality…”—add a dash of ambition and you’ve

identified the attributes of Sizzler Alicia Maxim. Serendipity.When the U.S. firm announced that its third Canadian location would open

in the World Trade Centre Edmonton, it caught her interest. “Before I went formy job interview, I did a lot of research about them and I really liked theirproduct and their fine dining concept that was unique to the industry.”

The 27-year-old U of A business grad and Sherwood Park native wentarmed with an impressive history. Her restaurant management career started atJoey Tomato’s, then moved on to Ric’s Grill, the Mayfield Inn and Suites,and The Sutton Place Hotel as restaurants manager.

Alicia got the job as assistant manager. “I get to take care of all thehuman resource components… control and monitor inventory and thevarious costs associated with liquor, wine and beer. I interact withguests ensuring they have an amazing experience at our restaurant.”

Amazing it is—not just for patrons, but for Alicia as well—thanksto her general manager and mentor, Brian Welsh. “He’s everythingyou could want in a boss. He’s inspiring and willing to help you get towhere you want to be.”

There are a couple of places Alicia wants to be: general manager of aRuth’s franchise by 30 and/or in the middle of the political arena. Herinterest was sparked helping her dad in three campaigns. “Even thoughmy father wasn’t successful, since he was a Liberal candidate runningin Calgary, that hasn’t put me off from trying...

“I think my biggest responsibility is to embody the culture of Ruth’sChris… conduct my self in a professional manner… lead the people Iwork with to achieve their goals… and continue to learn to ensure I

am as ready as I can be to be a general manger one day.” But, Alicia, a self-confessed clothes horse, also makes time

to volunteer for and participate in various charity fundraisersincluding the Youth Emergency Shelter Society and theUnited Way.

When personal work ethic and corporate philosophy are onthe same page, you have a recipe for success. √

Alicia MaximManaging the sizzle


ove over Thomas the Tank Engine, there’s anotherblue train in town—Bluetrain Inc. to be exact. The

brainchild of Bryan Smith doesn’t pull cargo or carrypassengers like Thomas because, for this particular engine,it’s all about making connections.

Specializing in search engineoptimization and Internet

marketing, Bryan explainsthe process as the finetuning of websites torank higher on search

engines like Googleand Yahoo, thereby

generating moreon-line visits

for his clients.

“While most casual ’Net surfers don’t care about theorder in which results are returned, for Internet companiesthat often live and die by the number of users they areable to attract, the goal of getting the highest rankingpossible is not only desirable but a necessity,” explainsBryan.

The idea for developing such a service beganformulating when Bryan was participating in an AIESECstudent exchange program to Romania in 2001. He movedto Bucharest for 10 months to work for a company thatwas pioneering text message voting.

“I loved it so much, that I said to myself when I startedmy own business, it had to be in the field of IT.”

When Bryan returned to the U of A, he did an internshipwith SMART technologies and graduated from the Schoolof Business. Having honed his marketing and sales skills,he spent four years at Micralyne, a renowned localnanotechnology firm. During his job interview, however,he was up-front about his future plans… regardless ofopportunities for promotion, he was going to launch hisown company within five years.

True to his word, this February, Bluetrain Inc.—namedfor those traditional blue web links we all click-on—wasborn.

The 29-year old is optimistic about his company’sfuture. With only one percent of websites currently searchengine optimized, explains Bryan, Bluetrain is on trackfor growth. Maybe, one day, it will be just as well knownas its fictional counterpart. √

Bryan SmithThe other blue train in town


AA

MM



Sealing the deal…timing, timing, timingUnlike most of us, merger and acquisitiondeals don’t get better with age. In ourcurrent uncertain marketplace deals aretaking longer to close than they did acouple of years ago. The longer a dealtakes to close the more disaster-prone theresults can be.

In one of our transactions the vendorwon a significant contract during thedue diligence process. As a result theyhad second thoughts about selling andfelt they were giving away a goodthing. This made for difficultnegotiations as the deal proceededgiven the vendor was content to dragout the process in order to capitalize onthe large order.

In another deal the vendors werefamily members who, as the deal

progressed, had a falling out andrefused to communicate with eachother. From the start, the purchasermade it very clear that they wererelying on the two vendors to assistthem during the transition periodfollowing closing. How could theyreasonably expect this to happen whenthe two key individuals could not be inthe same room without fur flying?

In another case the vendors were amarried couple. The wife was notinvolved in the day to day running ofthe business but owned 50% of thecompany and had to be involved in thesale process. It turned out that theirmarriage was on the rocks and divorceproceedings were imminent. When itcame time to close the deal one partyrefused to sign unless concessions weremade in the divorce settlement. Awhole new series of negotiationsbegan.

Recently we worked with a purchaserthat was sure they were the only buyerat the table and that the vendor was introuble. They reasoned that the longerthey delayed the process the less theywould pay for the company. Whilefollowing a wait and see strategy with alow offer on the table, the buyer lost aperfect fit for their current operations toa competitor who was prepared to paya reasonable price to secure the deal.

These are but a few examples fromour recent experience. In short, whathappens when a deal takes a long timeto close? It usually doesn’t. If you areinvolved in a sell or buy scenario, sealthe deal by using a professional advisor.Please [email protected] or call780.441.6793.

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

ACQUISITIONS, DIVESTITURES &

CORPORATE FINANCE

edmontonians sep07

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