This issue as it kicks off our Heading to the Highlands Series, spotlighting some of the amazing businesses that make Cape Breton, Nova Scotia the perfect four-season adventure destination.
VOL 24 ISSUE 5
Cape Breton’s Year-Round Outdoor Adventure Destination
THE CLAIRESTONE INN UNWIND ON CAPE BRETON’S ISLAND OFF THE ISLAND THE WINTER BLUES THE FACTS BEHIND SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
THE CORNER STORE by missbrenna A TRUE CONNECTION BETWEEN PEOPLE, PLACE, AND PRIDE
IN THE SPOTLIGHT Q&A WITH BRYAN DETCHOU UNLEASHING CANADA’S COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN ENERGY & NATURAL RESOURCES
An AIDACA MEDIA Publication
We are excited about this issue as it kicks off our Heading to the Highlands Series, spotlighting some of the amazing businesses that make Cape Breton the perfect four-season destination. Cape Smokey has delighted visitors with exceptional skiing from mountain to ocean along one of Canada’s most scenic and popular destination areas, since the early 70’s. Unfortunately, after a lodge fire in 1979, the ski hill fell out of the spotlight. Ski Cape Smokey operated under the passion and perseverance of local community volunteers, from the early 90’s until 2019, when the property was purchased by new owners. We spoke with Martin Kejval, CEO of Cape Smokey Holdings about his vision to make Cape Smokey into a year-round adventure destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. With their second anniversary just around the corner, we wanted to celebrate the occasion and revisit our conversation with Brenna MacNeil who is not only the founder of the missbrenna brand, which is a classy Cape Breton apparel and goods company but also the owner of a modern curated community corner store offering traditional and specialty grocery products, a café and of course her amazing missbrenna brand products. Brenna’s return to her roots in Inverness has helped her not only build a stronger business and brand but also help support other Cape Breton vendors and artists following their dream of entrepreneurship. We revisit our conversation with The Clairestone Inn owner, Shauna Austin, who was missing inspiration and felt a calling back to her hometown in Cape Breton, on the remote Isle Madame, Nova Scotia after being away from home for many years to continue her entrepreneurial journey. It was inspiring to learn how returning to Cape Breton’s Island off the Island and her roots got her to unwind and get back to her happy place personally and professionally, close to her family. December also means the start of winter which brings for most of Canada and the US, shorter days, longer nights, frigid temperatures, and winter weather that can trap us inside. The change in weather may impact everyone’s mood negatively temporarily as they adjust, but for some, the winter blues can lead to significant mental health challenges that can affect their personal and work life. These are the signs and ways to beat the winter blues. This month’s “in the spotlight,” segment is a Q&A between the Canadian Energy Centre and Bryan Detchou, senior director of natural resources, environment, and sustainability with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce about unleashing Canada’s competitive advantage in energy and natural resources. As always, my team and I want to thank everyone who made this issue possible, and we look forward to sharing more stories about growing industries, successful businesses, and brands, and the entrepreneurs making it all happen. EDITOR’S SPOTLIGHT
MANAGING DIRECTOR Rod Gregg EDITOR Lee Ann Atwater ACCOUNTS & ADMIN Calli Gregg COMMUNICATION, RESEARCH & ADMIN Tristyn Gaudette EDITORIAL & PROJECT MANAGER Ashley Davis Kate Lindsay CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Megan Callahan Cody Ciona
Shannon Ferguson Gabrielle Gamblin Will Gibson Darryll Gillard Deborah Jaremko Kris McCarthy Laura Mitchell Ryan Myson Teresa Siqueira Elizabeth Spencer Amanda Stellisano
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Spotlight What’s in the ON THE COVER THE WINTER BLUES THE FACTS BEHIND SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
03 EDITOR’S SPOTLIGHT 04 WHAT’S IN THE SPOTLIGHT 08 HEADLINES IN THE SPOTLIGHT 10 UPCOMINGEVENTS 18 BANFF CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL The World’s Most Beautiful Beer Festival 26 COMMUNITY CARBON COST Alberta Municipalities hit with $37 million Carbon Tax Tab in 2023 30 SAINT JOHN BEER FEST Bringing Beer Fest Back Uptown! 36 CANADA-U.S. RELATIONS Proposed Emissions Cap Threatens Critical Canada-U.S. Energy Trade 42 HEADING FOR THE HIGHLANDS Four Seasons of Outdoor Adventure, Fall Edition 70 CASTLE ROCK COUNTRY INN This Cape Breton Paradise could be yours 82 MAKING A CONNECTION How to Connect with a Panelist or Speaker following an Event 88 ENERGYINFRASTRUCTURE Alberta rail hub doubling in size to transport plas- tic from major new carbon-neutral plant 92 PREPARING FOR GROWTH Where to Start! 98 DECK THE HALLS Getting Ready for the Holidays 104 A MOTHER’S MESSAGE It’s all in the pieces 106 ENTREPRENEURIAL BURNOUT Getting Your Spark Back 114 YOUR HAPPY PLACE IN BUSINESS The Keys to Get You There
CAPE SMOKEY HOLDINGS CAPE BRETON’S YEAR ROUND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
THE CLAIRESTONE INN UNWIND ON CAPE BRETON’S ISLAND OFF THE ISLAND
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Whether you are working in an office or remotely in Canada and many places in the U.S. December means the start of Winter and months of shorter days, longer nights, and frigid temperatures mixed with blowing snow, wind chill, and icy conditions that can keep us trapped inside. The change in weather may impact everyone’s mood negatively temporarily as they adjust, but for some, the winter blues can lead to significant mental health challenges that can affect their personal and work life.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Built in 1970-71, Cape Smokey has delighted visitors with exceptional skiing from mountain to ocean along one of Canada’s most scenic and popular destination areas, after a lodge fire in 1979, the ski hill fell out of the spotlight. In the early 90’s, Ski Cape Smokey operated under the passion and perseverance of local community volunteers, until 2019, when the property was purchased by new owners. We spoke with Martin Kejval, CEO of Cape Smokey Holdings about his vision to make Cape Smokey into a year-round adventure destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
We revisit our conversation with the Clairestone Inn’s owner, Shauna Austin, who was missing inspiration and felt a calling back to her hometown in Cape Breton, and the remote Isle Madame, Nova Scotia after being away from home for many years to continue her entrepreneurial journey. It was inspiring to learn how returning to Cape Breton’s Island off the Island and her roots got her to unwind and get back to her happy place personally and professionally, close to her family.
12
THE CORNER STORE by missbrenna A TRUE CONNECTION BETWEEN PEOPLE, PLACE, AND PRIDE
Q&A between Canadian Energy Centre and Bryan Detchou, senior director of natural resources, environment, and sustainability with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce about unleashing Canada’s competitive advantage in energy and natural resources and the potential for Canada to exceed expectations on the global stage as a strong and reliable energy partner. UNLEASHING CANADA’S COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN ENERGY & NATURAL RESOURCES Q&A WITH BRYAN DETCHOU
With their second anniversary just around the corner in December we wanted to revisit our conversation with Brenna MacNeil who is not only the founder of the missbrenna brand, which is a classy Cape Breton apparel and goods company but also the owner of a modern curated community corner store offering traditional and specialty grocery products, a café and of course her amazing missbrenna brand products. We uncovered how a return to her roots in Inverness has helped her build a business and grow her brand while supporting other Cape Breton vendors and artists.
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HEADLINES IN THE SPOTLIGHT
AMERICANS LOVE TJ MAXX, HERE’S WHY BIG BRANDS DO, TOO American shoppers are increasingly trading down from department stores and opting to spend their money at off-price retailers. TJX Companies is the largest player in the off-price industry and has helped to change the way Americans think about the discount space. TJX Companies, which owns Marshalls, HomeGoods, and T.J. Maxx, has nearly doubled its annual sales over the past decade, reaching $54.2 billion in fiscal 2024. Part of that success has come from changing the way it merchandizes its stores. For this to benefit the brands, selling to off-price stores must be done discreetly. One way that T.J. Maxx accomplishes this is by making designer brands unsearchable on its website. Siegel says that if a company sells its inventory to T.J. Maxx, there is less brand dilution than if it were advertising clearance sales in its own stores.
TOM BRADY EXPECTED TO BECOME PART OWNER OF NFL’S LAS VEGAS RAIDERS National Football League owners are expected to approve Tom Brady as minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. The seven-time Super Bowl champ is looking to buy about a 10% stake in the Raiders with his business partner, Knighthead Capital founder Tom Wagner. The price Brady would pay for his stake is unclear. But the Raiders are the NFL’s fifth-most valuable franchise, worth $7.8 billion. The deal is subject to approval by 24 of the NFL’s 32 team owners at the league meeting in Atlanta. Brady’s bid for a piece of the team began in May 2023, making Brady just the third former NFL player to become a team owner. After he first retired from the NFL, Brady signed a 10- year, $375 million broadcasting deal with Fox Sports in 2022. If he is approved for ownership, it will come with restrictions on how he covers the team
HURRICANE MILTON COULD CAUSE AS MUCH AS $175 BILLION IN DAMAGE Hurricane Milton’s once-in-a-century potential could cause damage of more than $50 billion, with the potential to leave behind devastation approaching $175 billion or more in a worst-case scenario, according to leading Wall Street analysts. That would be on top of the carnage already left behind by Hurricane Helene, posing a potential record-breaking path of wreckage. The extent of the potential is hard to pin down and will depend on timing and location, with a landfall closer to Fort Myers being less costly. For a historical comparison, analysts need only to look back two years, when Hurricane Ian hit near the Fort Myers area as a Category 4 storm and left behind more than $50 billion in losses. Ian was considered a 1-in-20- year event.
GOOGLE SIGNS DEAL WITH NUCLEAR COMPANY AS DATA CENTER POWER DEMAND SURGES Google advised that it would purchase power from small modular reactor developer Kairos Power, as tech companies increasingly turn to nuclear power as a way to fulfill the growing energy demands from data centers. The tech giant said it will purchase power from a fleet of SMRs made by Kairos Power. Google said purchasing from multiple SMRs sends an “important demand signal to the market,” while making a long-term investment to accelerate commercialization. There are only three SMRs that are operating in the world, and none in the U.S. The hope is that SMRs are a more cost-effective way to scale up nuclear power. In the past, large, commercial-scale nuclear reactor projects have run over budget and behind schedule, and many hope SMRs won’t suffer that same fate. But it is uncharted territory to some extent.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
LANDSCAPE ONTARIO CONGRESS 2025
WHISTLER, CANADA MEDICAL CONFERENCE 2025 JANUARY 5TH TO 11TH, 2025 PAN PACIFIC WHISTLER MOUNTAINSIDE | WHISTLER, BC CANADA Whistler, Canada Medical Conference is a dedicated forum for medical practitioners and specialists across the country. It offers programs focused on the specialist needs of rural proceduralists and ED doctors, benefiting all rural communities. Whistler, British Columbia is home to one of the most unique mountain resort communities in the world and is the most-western resort in Canada, carrying with it an international flavour that’s worth celebrating and embracing, year- round. It’s also home to rugged peaks, glistening lakes, lush coastal forests, and a charming village that offers up a playground full of activities. Join them for a healthcare conference nestled in the beautiful mountains of rugged British Columbia. For more information on this event go to https://www.medicinewithaltitude.com. au/whistler-canada-winter
NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SUPERSHOW 2025 JANUARY 3RD TO 5TH, 2025 THE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE | MISSISSAUGA, ON CANADA The North American International Motorcycle Supershow is perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts. With numerous exhibitors if you’re into motorcycles and the lifestyle, then this is the show for you! As soon as you step foot on the show floor, you’ll be blown away with the incredible roster of exhibitors and the feature events taking place around the show. Browse this enormous show and you’ll find new and used motorcycles, Aftermarket Parts and Accessories, Rider Apparel and Helmets, Performance Equipment, Trailers, Travel Destinations, Custom Bike Builders, and a full range of Fashions. You can also enjoy live bands, special guests, custom bikes, and much more!
JANUARY 7TH TO 9TH, 2025 THE TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE | TORONTO, ON CANADA
Landscape Ontario Congress is Canada’s largest and longest-running trade show and conference for Canadian landscape professionals. With over 400 exhibitors covering more than 8 acres, Congress is a one-stop shop for the latest equipment, tools, materials, and supplies; everything you need to do what you do best. Conference Pass includes 3-day conference and trade show access, admission to Tailgate Party, and LIVE Stage.
GROWCANADA CONFERENCE 2024 DECEMBER 3RD TO 5TH, 2024 THE WESTIN OTTAWA | OTTAWA, ON CANADA Agriculture has long been one of the most innovative industries in the world. With advancements in artificial intelligence, biotechnology and precision agriculture we are moving into a new era of innovation that promises to drive both productivity and sustainability. We will explore how continued innovation will shape the future of agriculture and how Canada can capitalize on its opportunity to be a global agricultural leader. GrowCanada Conference is Canada’s premier agricultural event, providing a platform to connect with industry leaders from across the country, explore cutting-edge insight and build a stronger and more vibrant Canadian agricultural sector that ultimately contributes to a better world.
GLOBAL PR SUMMIT CANADA 9 DECEMBER 5TH & 6TH, 2024 NIAGARA FALLS CONVENTION RADISSON ADMIRAL HOTEL TORONTO- HARBOURFRONT | VANCOUVER, BC CANADA Global PR Summit Canada 9 is where the pulse of the public relations world beats the strongest. Join them for an electrifying exploration of the latest PR trends and strategies shaping the industry today. As Canada’s premier PR event, their summit gathers the most influential minds in PR from both Canada and around the globe. Immerse yourself in enlightening keynotes and engaging panel discussions led by top PR leaders, as you delve into critical topics driving the future of communications. This year’s theme, “PR in an Age of AI and Permacrisis,” promises to provide deep insights and practical strategies for navigating the complex and rapidly evolving landscape of public relations. For more information on this event go to https://www.thepworld.com/event/ global-pr-summit-canada-9
REAL ESTATE FORUM 2024 DECEMBER 4TH & 5TH, 2024 METRO TORONTO CONVENTION CENTRE | TORONTO, ON CANADA Canada’s largest annual conference for the commercial real estate industry, the Real Estate Forum is a two-day event that covers key issues, trends, challenges, risks, and opportunities in all property classes. It offers valuable insights to develop strategies for the future with over 2700 senior-level attendees gathering from all over Canada and beyond, including over 1300 building owners, and developers plus private and institutional investors, along with portfolio and investment managers, brokers, lenders, appraisers, lawyers and other senior real estate executives giving you amazing opportunities for you build strategic partnerships and delve into global industry trends, investment, capital sourcing, innovation, and more. For more information on this event go to https://informaconnect.com/toronto-real- estate-forum/
For more information on this event go to https://www.locongress.com/
WANT TO HAVE YOUR EVENT IN THE SPOTLIGHT? Send an email 4 weeks in advance to production@spotlightbizmag.com with all the details of your event.
For more information on this event go to https://motorcyclesupershow.ca/
For more information on this event go to https://growcanadaconference.ca/
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Q&A
WITH BRYAN DETCHOU Unleashing Canada’s Competitive Advantage in Energy & Natural Resources
by Cody Ciona
Q&A between Canadian Energy Centre and Bryan Detchou, senior director of natural resources, environment, and sustainability with the Canadian
Chamber of Commerce about unleashing Canada’s competitive advantage in energy and natural resources and the potential for Canada to exceed expectations on the global stage as a strong and reliable energy partner. Bryan Detchou has been recognized as a rising young leader shaping Canada’s economy and culture. Photo courtesy of the Canadian Cham- ber of Commerce
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C anada’s energy sector is one of the country’s greatest strengths, says an emerging leader with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Bryan Detchou is the Chamber’s senior director of natural resources, environment and sustainability. A former government relations consultant and staffer on Parliament Hill, Detchou was recognized by The Peak in 2023 as one of Canada’s young leaders shaping the country’s economy, culture, and society. The Chamber boasts a membership of over 200,000 businesses, including many energy-related companies. Detchou helps advocate for achieving the sector’s untapped potential.
Canadian Energy Centre: Why does the Canadian Chamber of Commerce support Canada’s oil and natural gas sector? Bryan Detchou: The mandate of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce is to support and be the leading voice for all businesses across the Canadian economy. You cannot discuss the Canadian economy without recognizing the essential role of the oil and gas sector. CEC: What role should Canada’s energy sector play in the 21st-century Canadian and world economies? BD: We believe that Canada’s energy and natural resources sectors are sources of pride and deserve strong support. These sectors hold the potential for Canada to exceed
BD: The majority of emissions reductions are being driven by the private sector, and we’re already seeing significant investments from various organizations. However, the challenge lies in the substantial capital required for these initiatives. Before making major investment decisions, companies need a level of certainty and predictability in the markets they operate in—this is where the government can play a stronger role. Regulatory hurdles, such as amendments to the Impact Assessment Act and the slow deployment of Investment Tax Credits, continue to create uncertainty. We must understand that this is a global race. Canada is not the only country working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and attract the necessary
expectations on the global stage, positioning us as a key player in solving many of the world’s pressing challenges. The conflict in Ukraine has exposed vulnerabilities in European and global energy security, underscoring the critical role Canada can play in addressing these issues. It is not only Canada’s responsibility to its citizens but also its duty to the global community to be a strong and reliable energy partner. However, our failure to act decisively on energy security weakens our position and undermines our ability to contribute meaningfully to the reduction of global emissions. CEC: How can Canadian energy businesses take a leadership position in emissions reduction?
investment.
engaged ever since.
It is our responsibility to identify and leverage our competitive advantages. There is still much Canada can do to ensure its regulatory framework is conducive to attracting investment and driving environmental progress. CEC: How is the federal greenwashing Bill C-59 impacting Canadian energy companies? BD: From the outset, we have been fully engaged in addressing the challenges posed by this new legislation, starting with our involvement when the amendment was first introduced in the House of Commons committee in late May. We testified before the Senate in early June, voicing the concerns of the industry, and have remained actively
We unequivocally support the goal of ensuring that no Canadian company engages in deceptive marketing, whether in terms of product claims or the communication of their environmental commitments, particularly those aimed at combating climate change. Transparency and accountability are fundamental. However, the law’s vague language and the absence of a clearly defined methodology have unfortunately created uncertainty across all sectors of the Canadian economy. This uncertainty hinders the ability of businesses to openly and confidently contribute to Canada’s ambitious climate goals.
Here’s what he shared with the Canadian Energy Centre:
Rather than driving environmental progress, the new law has inadvertently
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CEC: What does the Chamber believe are the best steps forward for Canada’s energy sector? BD: The best way forward for Canada’s energy sector involves recognizing and leveraging our natural resources as one of the country’s greatest strengths, rather than a weakness. In the face of global challenges Canada’s energy sector must evolve to address these pressing issues. We advocate for a balanced approach that includes diversifying the energy portfolio with investments in renewable technologies and innovations like carbon capture and storage and hydrogen, ensuring a clear and efficient regulatory framework to attract investment, and
undermined the significant efforts already made by Canadian corporations, and by extension, the Canadian government. It has become a barrier to both innovation and meaningful environmental action. The time has come for the government to revisit this legislation. The government should do now what it should have done in May and work collaboratively with industry stakeholders to develop a made-in-Canada regime that ensures corporate accountability and transparency while fostering, not stifling, innovation and environmental ambition.
strengthening Indigenous partnerships to foster shared prosperity.
Promoting sustainable resource development to meet net-zero targets, expanding global market opportunities, and enhancing collaboration between government and industry are crucial. By embracing our energy sector as a key asset, Canada can enhance its role on the global stage, support our allies, and combat climate change effectively. Unleashing the full potential of Canada’s natural resources is essential for securing energy security, achieving economic growth, and driving long-term prosperity.
Only by doing this can we achieve the climate objectives that Canada is striving for.
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BANFF CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL The World’s Most Beautiful Beer Festival!
by Ryan Myson
THE BANFF CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL RETURNED TO THE CAVE AND BASIN NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE IN 2024. AS THE ONLY CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL FEATURING EXCLUSIVELY ALBERTA CRAFT BREWERS, YOUR TASTE BUDS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO SAMPLE DELICIOUS FOOD AND DRINK FROM OVER 50 VENDORS FROM ACROSS THE PROVINCE, SHARE STORIES WITH LOCAL BREWMASTERS, AND ENJOY LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, PLUS EXPERIENCE MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE AT ITS BEST!
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T he Banff Craft Beer Festival is widely considered the World’s Most Beautiful Beer Festival and is an annual event held at the Birthplace of Canada’s National Parks, the Cave & Basin. The Cave and Basin have been a special place for Indigenous Peoples for over ten thousand years as human habitation in this area can be traced back to 10,700 years BC with the retreat of the last great glaciation. In 1883, three railway workers, Frank McCabe and brothers Tom and William McCardell, happened upon the thermal springs, sparking a series of events that led to the creation of the first national park in Canada. Today, the site is a gathering place for sharing stories about conservation and the connection between people and the land. Banff, Alberta is known for its pristine wilderness, glacier-fresh waters, and as one of the most beautiful towns in
the world. This festival is more than just great spirits, food, and beer, it’s a chance to dive into the past while tasting what is happening now in Alberta’s craft brewing and distilling industries. Most importantly, it allows craft beer and spirit enthusiasts to experience a mountain adventure at its best! This year’s event was broken up into 4 distinct areas of this historic landmark allowing festivalgoers the opportunity to sample amazing craft beers and spirits from 50 vendors from across Alberta while they share stories and talk shops with local brewmasters, distillers, and cideries like the Fox Hills Cidery from the heart of Strathcona County, Alberta. This quaint, family- owned and operated cidery prides itself on producing craft, non-carbonated small batch hard apple ciders using only the finest top-end ingredients. Each batch is carefully handcrafted, ensuring a premium and authentic
taste. By meticulously selecting top- quality fruits and following traditional production methods, what is left is a deliciously light and crisp craft cider that was a crowd-pleaser at this year’s event. Others crowed please from this year’s event were Banded Peak Brewing and their ever-expanding collection of beers that challenge the traditional styles brewed in the shadows of the Rocky Mountains. Their Core, multiple seasonal beers, and dozens of one-off beers are crafted for adventure and adventurous people who embrace all that life throws at you. Central Alberta, in Canada’s west, is known for agriculture and oil. But more and more, it’s becoming known for its amazing craft beer. Leading the charge is Blindman Brewing, a craft brewery located in Lacombe, just a hop-and-a-skip north of Red Deer. This
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locally minded, community-focused craft brewery is dedicated to bringing you the best craft beers possible and anyone who attended this year’s Banff Craft Beer Festival would agree. Canmore Brewing Company will be attending the Banff Craft Beer Festival. Like many other craft breweries, it began in a garage and has grown into an award-winning craft brewery that brings their love for the mountains into almost every aspect of the brewery and the beers they create for passionate
craft beer aficionados and outdoor enthusiasts that made their way to this year’s Banff Craft Beer Festival. Cold Garden Beverage Company, out of Calgary, Alberta started as university friends now brewery partners started doing the old brew-your-own beer as a “function of drinking cheaper, as students will do.” One day, while sitting at the back of a lecture theatre in one of the many entrepreneur classes they shared, the friends joked that they should start a brewery of their own,
and the rest as they say. ‘Is history.’ Their passions is driven by honesty and truthfulness to themselves and their customers and you taste that in their award-winning beers and ciders. From Slave Lake, AB is Dog Island Brewing a successful brewery built on a simple mindset, “the easiest thing to do to succeed is to make good beer. If you just make good beer, all your ducks will fall in a row for you.” And according to many at the Banff Craft Beer Festival, their ducks are in a row.
A Centuries-Old Tradition
TIMELESS CRAFT BEER
MEDICINE HAT, ALBERTA
We have a Bar & Taproom with a Full Kitchen along with a patio, and a private events space that can hold 55 people. Currently selling across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon MEDICINEHATBREWINGCOMPANY.CA Join us at Medicine Hat Brewing Company and enjoy our Bar & Taproom with a full kitchen, beautiful patio and private events space that holds up to 55 people. Currently selling across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Yukon MEDICINEHATBREWINGCOMPANY.CA
F inlay C rossing a meriCan P ale a le g old - P ale a le / B itter 2023 a lBerta B eer a wards s est P ivo C zeCh s tyle P ilsner g old - C zeCh s tyle P ale l ager 2023 C anadian B eer C uP a wards
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(403) 525 1260 info @ mhbrewco . ca
h ighway 3 a le t rail a meriCan w heat a le s ilver - a meriCan s tyle w heat B eer 2023 a lBerta B eer a wards
w oolFrey m ilk s tout B ronze - s tout 2023 a lBerta B eer a wards
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This year’s sampling sessions were: Thursday, November 21st: 5:00pm – 10:00pm MT Friday, November 22nd: 5:00pm – 10:00pm MT Saturday, November 23rd Afternoon Session: 12:00pm – 4:00pm MT Saturday, November 23rd Evening Session: 5:00pm – 9:00pm MT
Frequently Asked Questions: Q: Can you buy additional Sample Vouchers? A: Additional Sample Vouchers are available for $1 each and they are sold in blocks of 10 Q: Is parking available at the event? A: No parking was allowed for personal vehi- cles at the Cave & Basin for this year’s event. The only way, other than taxi, walking, biking, or be- ing dropped off, was by event shuttles that fre- quently left from/to downtown Banff and the Cave & Basin. Q: When does the sampling end for each session? A: The last Pour is 15 minutes before the end of the sampling session. Alberta Beer Festivals (ABF) strive to educate ev- eryone on all things craft beverage-related in Al- berta and beyond! Part of what they do is pro- mote craft beer & spirits created in their own backyard of Alberta, in addition to creating a brew culture with positive experiences for everyone, with events like the Banff Craft Beer Festival and their other signature events Keep up to date with everything happening in the Alberta beer community by following Alberta Beer Festivals on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram at @ABBeerfestivals. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s Banff Craft Beer Festival and be sure to check all of ABF’s upcoming events. Please Remember to Drink Responsibly and Do Not Drink & Drive!
Ticket Packages Included:
Things to remember if you are planning on attending next year’s Banff Craft Beer Festival for the first time: • This Is a Partial Outdoor Event, So Dress Warm! • No Minors – This is an 18+ event, so be sure to bring a government-issued ID for entrance to the event. • No Outside Food or Beverages • Tickets Are Transferrable • No Re-Entry • Admission to the event and $40 Worth of Food & Beer Vouchers • Commemorative Sample Mug • This year’s event offered Hotel & Ticket Packages which includes: 1 night’s accommodation Admission to the event and $40 Worth of Food & Beer Vouchers Commemorative Sample Mug Beyond the Beverages, festivalgoers can enjoy DJs, live music, delicious samples from some of Banff’s best eateries and restaurants plus so much more – there is no shortage of things to do at the festival.
CRISP, SMOOTH & REFRESHING!
Family-Owned & Operated Company
Our Family is Hands-On in the Operation of our Cidery from the Brewing of our Small-Batch Hard Apple Cider to Flavoring, Canning & Labelling!
All of Our Ciders are made with 100% Natural Flavours & Pure Apple Juice, not from concentrate, plus are Non-Carbonated & Gluten Free!
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Ardrossan, Alberta, Canada
foxhillscidery@gmail.com
(780) 238 2119
Community Carbon Cost Alberta Municipalities hit with $37 million Carbon Tax Tab in 2023 by Laura Mitchell
The cost on municipalities includes: Lloydminster: $422,248 Calgary: $1,230,300 (estimate) Medicine Hat: $876,237 Lethbridge: $1,398,000 (estimate)
0.6 per cent, providing direct financial relief to residents and businesses in Grande Prairie.” Conducted in October, the survey asked municipal districts, towns and cities in Alberta to disclose the amount of carbon tax paid out for the heating and electrifying of municipal assets and fuel for fleet vehicles. With these funds, Alberta municipalities could have hired 7,789 high school students at $15 per hour last year with the amount paid to Ottawa.
Grande Prairie: $757,562 Crowsnest Pass: $71,100 Red Deer: $1,495,945 Bonnyville: $19,484 Hinton: $66,829
New data shows the painful economic impact of the federal carbon tax on municipalities.
than $37 million in federal carbon taxes in 2023, based on a recent survey commissioned by Alberta Municipal Affairs, with data provided to the Canadian Energy Centre.
About $760,000 of that came from the City of Grande Prairie. In a statement, Mayor Jackie Clayton said “if the carbon tax were removed, City property taxes could be reduced by
Municipalities in Alberta paid out more
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Several municipalities also noted substantial indirect costs from the carbon tax, including higher rates from vendors that serve the municipality – like gravel truck drivers and road repair providers – passing increased fuel prices onto local governments. The rising price for materials and goods like traffic lights, steel, lumber, and cement, due to higher transportation costs are also hitting the bottom line for local governments. The City of Grande Prairie paid out $89 million in goods and services in 2023, and the indirect costs of the carbon tax “have had an inflationary impact
on those expenses” in addition to the direct costs of the tax.
international trade, said this issue is nationwide.
In her press conference announcing Alberta’s challenge to the federal carbon tax on Oct. 29, 2024, Premier Danielle Smith addressed the pressures the carbon tax places on municipal bottom lines. “In 2023 alone, the City of Calgary could have hired an additional 112 police officers or firefighters for the amount they sent to Ottawa for the carbon tax,” she said. In a statement issued on Oct. 7, 2024, Ontario Conservative MP Ryan Williams, shadow minister for
“In Belleville, Ontario, the impact of the carbon tax is particularly notable. The city faces an extra $410,000 annually in costs – a burden that directly translates to an increase of 0.37 percent on residents’ property tax bills.” There is no rebate yet provided on retail carbon pricing for towns, cities, and counties. In October, the council in Belleville passed a motion asking the federal government to return in full all carbon taxes paid by municipalities in Canada.
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Tour + Tasting
by Ryan Myson
ARE YOU A BEER ENTHUSIAST?
WE INVITE YOU TO EMBARK ON A CAPTIVATING TOUR OF THE HISTORIC PICAROONS ROUNDHOUSE. THIS ICONIC ESTABLISHMENT HAS STOOD PROUDLY SINCE 1874, SERVING AS A HOME FOR TRAINS, AUTOMOBILES, AND THE RENOWNED PICAROONS BREWING COMPANY. Join us for an exclusive tour of our state-of-the-art brewing and packaging facilities. Discover the craftsmanship behind our beers as we unveil the history behind it all. To top it off, savor a tasting experience featuring four carefully curated beers, each with its own unique story.
Saint John’s Trade and Convention Centre was this year’s host of the Saint John Beer Fest. It was great to see the suc- cessful return of this annual celebration of community, en- tertainment, and industry. The Saint John Beer Fest offered a carnival-like experience with games, live performances, and a variety of bottomless beer, ciders, seltzers, and other ready-to-drink creations to sample. From 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, festivalgoers immersed them- selves in a lively atmosphere filled with the rich aromas of hops and malt. The event offered an extensive selection of adult beverages, featuring local vendors and spotlight- ing many ciders, seltzers, and other ready-to-drink concoc- tions alongside their traditional and craft beers. So, wheth- er you are a true beer enthusiast or just beer-curious, there’s a flavour for every palate with over 30 vendors all over New
Saint John’s Uptown saw the successful return of the Saint John Beer Fest as beer enthusiasts made their way to the Harbour City for a keg full of East Coast Hospitality and an afternoon of sampling amazing beers, ciders, seltzers, and other ready-to- drink creations from local breweries and distilleries.
TOUR SCHEDULE: TUESDAY – SATURDAY 1 PM & 4 PM BOOK TODAY: BREWERYTOURS@PICAROONS.CA OR SCAN THE QR CODE ➼
picaroons.ca
@picaroonsbrewing
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house Patio offers one of the best plac- es in Fredericton to have a pint by the Saint John River. Their other location in the heart of Uptown Saint John is called the General Store, Servers Pic- aroons’ traditional British-style ales along with amazing East Coast hospi- tality and what we believe is one of the best watering holes on the East Coast and if you had the opportunity to vis- it with Amy and her team at the beer fest, you know what we are talking about and why it is our got to place when we are in Saint John. Trailway Brewing another team favor- ite was also at this year’s beer fest. For more than a decade Jake Saun- ders, Dan Mason, and their team have had a passion for hops and producing high-quality, bold, and robust Amer- ican-style Ales. Although their inter- ests and offerings have broadened in recent years to include styles from wild ales to lagers, that were represented at this year’s Saint John Beer Fest. Another editorial team favorite mak- ing the trip over on the Confederation
Bridge to Saint John was Lone Oak Brewing. Known for its top-quality tra- ditional beers, IPAs, Pilsners, Sours, and Stouts, along with its refreshing fruit infused Vodka Seltzers, this craft brewery from Borden-Carleton, Prince Edward Island was a crowd favorite and one of the main reasons we love our road trips to the Island every sum- mer. The Saint John Beer Fest was an all-en- compassing experience that went be- yond just sampling beer tasting. It offered an afternoon of live carni- val games and engaging social inter- actions in a vibrant setting. It was the perfect occasion to meet friends new and old, enjoy good times, and par- ticipate in fun competitions. Festival- goers had the opportunity to vote for their favourite brew or beverage in the “Best of the Fest” people’s choice award and the festivalgoer that caught the crowd’s attention with the “Best Dressed” contest. Each ticket purchased not only sup- ports an industry and those in it but
also contributes to a noble cause, sup- porting the compassionate care pro- vided by Bobby’s Hospice, which is At- lantic Canada’s first 10-bed community palliative care facility for people who need 24-hour, expert care in the fi - nal weeks and months of life. Bobby’s Hospice adheres to the highest stan- dards in healthcare yet remains a home away from home for patients and fam- ilies on this end-of-life journey offer- ing comfort and compassionate care that celebrates life. This integration of festivity and philanthropy embodies the community spirit prevalent in New Brunswick, making it a significant event for both fun-seekers and those looking to make a difference. The Saint John Beer Fest was a posi- tive representation of New Brunswick’s and Saint John’s vibrant culture and hospitality. Spotlighting the region’s commitment to community, craftsman- ship, and celebration of local business- es and industry. We saw this when we attended the Boxcar Country and REA 506 Music Festivals earlier this year. So, as you make your travel plan for
Brunswick like Big Axe Brewery from Nackawic, on the east bank of the Saint John River in New Brunswick, famous for its giant axe, but now equally fa- mous its amazing ales. Peter Cole and his team brought the brewery brand but more importantly, their beer to the Saint John Beer Fest for festivalgoers to sample. Also, at this year’s event was Off Grid Ales from the rural community of Har- vey, known for its rich history, nature, local charm, and now its amazing beer. OG Ales is New Brunswick’s first micro - brewery crafting premium ales off-grid using solar energy since 2016 allow - ing the brewery Net Carbon Neutral. According to festivalgoers they were equally impressed with the beer as they were, the power of the sun, that made it all happen. One of my personal favorites Picaroons Brewing was also at this year’s event. Their main brewing facility is located along the Saint John River in Freder- icton, New Brunswick. Their Round-
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#10. A Memorable Night Out Whether you’re with friends, cowork- ers, or meeting new people, Saint John Beer Fest offers an unforgettable social experience to cap off the season. #9. All-Inclusive Fun Your ticket covers it all—unlimited beer tastings, carnival games, photo booth, snacks, and live entertainment. No ex- tra fees, just nonstop fun from start to finish! #8. Interactive Photo Opportunities Snap unforgettable photos at the Fred- dy photo booth and take home memo- ries that last longer than any beer. #7. Carnival Fun with a Twist
#4. Unlimited Beer Sampling With bottomless beer included in your ticket price, you’ll have the chance to explore a wide variety of craft brews, discovering new favourites. #3. Exciting Live Performances From aerial acts to jugglers and bub- blers, the entertainment lineup prom- ises to keep you on the edge of your seat and your camera ready! #2. Meet and Greet with Brewers
2025, we recommend you consider ex - ploring more of what Saint John has to offer, making your trip a comprehen- sive experience of enjoyment and dis- covery for this amazing region and all that it has to offer. Looking to head to the 2024 edition of the Saint John Beer Fest? If so we recommend going with the VIP expe- rience. It allows you to enjoy an ex- tra hour of access before the general admission to skip the crowds and en- joy the extra time to chat with vendors, sample, and experience the fun activi- ties. Plus, VIP Tables give you an extra hour and an exclusive 10-person table for your group’s home base, perfect for gathering, relaxing, and making the most of the event! These are our top 10 reasons why the Saint John Beer Fest should be on your festival bucket list for 2025:
with games like ring toss, dart games, and more, all set to free play! Perfect for showing off your hidden talents
explore their craft in an interactive, laid-back environment where you can get the inside scoop on brewing. The #1 reason to attend next year’s Saint John Beer Fest… Support a Great Cause! All proceeds go towards Bobby’s Hos- pice, providing essential end-of-life care in our community. We look forward to seeing you all again next year at the Saint John Beer Fest for you don’t miss out on this fan- tastic opportunity to sip, play, and so- cialize with fellow beer enthusiasts.
while you enjoy your beer. #6. Classic Carnival Snacks
Grab some cotton candy and popcorn to munch on as you wander! These tasty, nostalgic treats are the perfect match for a night of beer sampling and good times. #5. Exclusive VIP Experience VIP ticket holders enjoy an exclusive first hour (3-4 pm) of the event. Arrive an hour early and enjoy exclusive ac- cess to all the brews, games, photo booth, and snacks before the general admission crowd rolls in.
Chat with your favourite brewers and
Enjoy carnival-themed entertainment
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CANADA-U.S. RELATIONS Proposed Emissions Cap Threatens Critical Canada-U.S. Energy Trade by Deborah Jaremko The vast majority of Canadian oil exports to the United States are processed in Midwest states. Here, the Cushing Terminal near Cushing, Oklahoma is Enbridge’s largest tank farm and the most significant trading hub for North American crude. Photo courtesy Enbridge
Canada and the United States share something that doesn’t exist anywhere else: a vast, interconnected energy network that today produces more oil and gas than any other region, including the Middle East, according to analysis by S&P Global.
It’s a blanket of energy security researchers called “a powerful card to play” in increasingly unstable times.
But, according to two leaders in governance and energy policy, that relationship is at risk.
Analysis has shown that the federal proposal to cap emissions in Canada’s oil and gas sector would result in reduced production. That likely means less energy available to Canada’s largest customer, the United States.
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Jamie Tronnes
Heather Exner-Pirot
Heather Exner-Pirot is a prominent energy policy analyst and senior fellow with the Ottawa-based Macdonald-Laurier Institute.
Jamie Tronnes, executive director of the Center for North American Prosperity and Security, is a former Canadian political staffer born in northern Alberta now living in Washington, D.C.
Here’s what they shared with the Canadian Energy Centre.
Canadian Energy Centre: The U.S. is one of the world’s largest oil and gas producers. Why does it need imports from Canada? Heather Exner-Pirot: It’s because all oil is not the same. The United States developed its refinery industry before the shale revolution, when they were importing heavier crudes. Canada has that heavier crude. They are now exporting some of their sweet light oil and importing Canadian crude because that’s what their refinery mix requires. What’s interesting is that we have never exported more Canadian crude to the United States than we are right now. Even as they have become the world’s largest oil producer, they’ve never needed Canadian oil more than today. They also import a ton of natural gas from us. They have become the world’s biggest gas producer and the world’s biggest gas exporter, but part of that, and having their LNG capacity being able to surpass Qatar and Australia so quickly, is because Canada is backfilling some of the production.
Canadian Energy Centre: Will the incoming new administration (either Democrat or Republican) impact the Canada-U.S. energy relationship? Jamie Tronnes: I don’t see a big change happening in such a way as it did when the Biden administration came in with the axing of the Keystone XL pipeline. Now that Russia has invaded Ukraine, the global energy market has changed radically. On the Republican side, Trump often repeats the phrase “drill, baby drill.” The issue is that the U.S. is already drilling about as much as demand allows. I don’t think a Harris government would move quickly to limit oil and gas production without having a strategic alternative in place. It simply would make her look very weak, and she has explicitly said that she would not ban fracking. In the post-COVID world, I believe that the Democrat side of the aisle is coming to the view that it was a geopolitical mistake in terms of securing North American energy dominance to cut the Keystone XL pipeline.
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