Chief Willie Sellars Photo Credit - Kiera Elise Photography
2 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA YOUR TALENT WILL SHAPE OUR STORY TALENT-POMERLEAU.CA/WELCOME BEHIND THIS MASK, YOU’RE LEADING THE WAY TOWARD THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION.
E D I T OR ’ S L E T T E R For over 6,500 years, the First Nations of the Secwepemc (Shuswap) Nation, have been stewards of their land near Willams Lake, British Columbia. The Williams Lake First Nation has a thriving economic arm posed to help the Nation’s people now, and in perpetuity. Sought out for economic opportunities, the Willams Lake First Nation approach to business is unique, having created a diverse and progressive environment that involves ownership, capacity building, and infrastructure development. We are proud to champion their governance infrastructure, multiple wholly-owned businesses, and protected culture in our cover profile. The Indigenous economy in Canada is currently estimated by TD Economics to have the potential to reach $100 billion. The economic empowerment of Indigenous communities, businesses and entrepreneurs are inextricably linked with Canada’s overall economic growth. First Nations are a vital component in overall economic growth, and this issue features many thriving First Nations businesses. A common theme amongst our profiles is equity ownership—a strong driver of Indigenous economic growth, something that will benefit shareholders now and, importantly, into the future. The BEC Team 3 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
PREVIOUS ISSUE Business Elite Canada First Canadian Place 100 King Street West—Suite 5600 Toronto, ON, M5X 1C9 Ph: 416-304-3959 Email: info@becmag.com Web: www.BECmag.com Editor Anna Guy Creative Art Director Kulvir Singh Chief Executive Officer Milos Bulatovic President & Publisher Sanjeev Amirthanathan samir@becmag.com 06 Williams Lake First Nation 4 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA C O N
6 Williams Lake First Nation 16 Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) - Water System Improvements Project 24 Fort McMurray First Nation Group of Companies and Fort McMurray 468 First Nation Economic Development 34 City of Red Deer’s G.H. Dawe Community Centre Upgrade 42 Trent-Severn Waterway Revitalization 52 Shell’s Sarnia Manufacturing Centre Celebrates 70th Anniversary 5 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA N T E N T S
6 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
A thriving First Nations government of the Secwepemc (Shuswap) Nation, located near the city of Williams Lake, the Williams Lake First Nation have been stewards of their land for over 6500 years. Today, the WLFN community includes a growing population of over 800 registered members who live on reserve in the community known as “Sugar Cane”, in nearby Williams Lake, BC, and across the globe. One of 17 Secwepemc nations forming Secwepemculecw, the greater WLFN stewardship land area extends from Shuswap Lake in the south, to Quesnel Lake 7 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
in the north, and from Columbia-Kootenay Range in the east, to the Alexis Creek area in the west. Since time immemorial, the band’s Kukpi7s (Chiefs) led a strong people, and they do so today. The WLFN is a model of successfully leveraging a diverse range of business opportunities for the advancement of the Nation’s culture and way of life. With wholly-owned business interests ranging from archeology to cannabis cultivation and retail, WLFN’s economic development opportunities are often generated through natural resource development which includes forestry, range, mining, water, wildlife, fisheries, etc. “WLFN is progressive community that is very much motivated by a desire to advance the condition of its membership while recognizing and appreciating its cultural heritage and roots,” Kirk Dressler, Director of Legal and Corporate Services at WLFN tells Business Elite Canada. “The WLFN is culturallycentred and future-focused. The cultural foundation for the community is the basis for everything that we do. We’re very much focused on creating a Chief Willie Sellars (Photo Credit - Kiera Elise Photography) 8 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
brighter future for the community members and that is the vision that informs the Council.” POSITIVE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT The WLFN is actively working to maintain a positive economic environment and to encourage investment in WLFN lands and the regional generally. WLFN works on economic development initiatives with other governments (local, provincial and federal) and various private enterprise partners. “WLFN’s approach to economic development is different from many other governments,” says Dressler. “There are two elements to economic development at WLFN. There’s really creating an environment for business. We do that in a variety of ways, and ensuring that we have a strong a robust Photo Credit - Kiera Elise Photography 9 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
governance infrastructure that is responsive to business and able to move at the speed of business is a major factor.” The development and implementation of WLFN governance tools has created a stronger and more effective business climate. “We’ve developed WLFN lands on the strength of our ability to manage to build a governance framework,” says Dressler. “In addition to creating governance,” adds Dressler “WLFN is also very involved in the development and operation of businesses. That’s the second prong of our economic development strategy. WLFN is very much a player in the business community in the Cariboo-Chilcotin and beyond.” COYOTE ROCK ESTATES Actively involved in real estate development and creating opportunity in that way, WLFN has a new residential subdivision and a mixed-use commercial subdivision known as Coyote Rock Estates. “We’re creating opportunity and generating revenue through land leases and construction work,” 10 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
11 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
says Dressler. “We’re also creating long-term job opportunities and building a sustainable tax base.” Moments away from biking and hiking trails and the Coyote Rock Golf Course, and minutes away from downtown Williams Lake, Coyote Rock Estates provides homeowners with the perfect combination of convenience and access to nature. Phase 1 of this beautiful 28 lot development is now being sold, says Dressler. BORLAND CREEK LOGGING LTD. WLFN’s longstanding forestry company, Borland Creek Logging Ltd. (BCL), is another of the key WLFN business entities. Established in 1996, BCL is equipped as a full-phase forestry operation and harvests as a roadside and conventional operation. BCL is capable of working on a “stump to dump” basis as required. The company started out as a small logging contractor and has grown significantly in size; capable of harvesting over 125,000 cubic meters per year. In addition to the main BCL equipment compound in the community of Sugar Cane, BCL also has an office presence at the Williams Lake First Nation corporate office in downtown Williams Lake. “BCL is a sizable employer in the community, and it’s built major partnerships with other players working the forest industry,” says Dressler. “But we built beyond that, recognizing that there’s a finite 12 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
quantity of these natural resources, and ultimately we need to look at economic diversification to ensure that we’re sustainable well into the future.” SUGAR CANE CANNABIS More recently, WLFN branched out extensively in the cannabis industry with the creation of Sugar Cane Cannabis cultivation facility. Wholly-owned by WLFN, Sugar Cane Cannabis was part of WLFN’s vision to produce the highest-quality, small-batch craft cannabis and to make it available to customers directly from the facility in which it is grown. WLFN holds the distinction of entering in to the first government-to-government agreement with the province of British Columbia under section 119 of the BC Cannabis Control and Licensing Act. This watershed agreement provides WLFN with specific powers in relation to cannabis retail, and perhaps most notably authorized WLFN to establish the first “seed-to-sale” or “farm-gate” cannabis cultivation facility in the province. “Sugar Cane Cannabis has a purpose-built 7,000-square-foot facility where we cultivate cannabis, which is then processed, packaged and sold from the same place that is was grown,” says Dressler. The facility has both a cultivation and retail component and is run primarily by WLFN members. In 2022, construction was completed, and Sugar Cane Cannabis received its micro-cultivation license. Sugar Cane Cannabis features state-of13 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
the-art cultivation techniques, an industry-leading grow team, and a spectacular boutique retail outlet offering a truly curated cannabis experience. In conjunction with WLFN’s businesses outlined here, there are also professional services companies. Sugar Cane Archaeology, for example, is a wholly-owned WLFN company run by a select team of Project Managers, Archaeologists, and Natural Resource Specialists and is tied with the WLFN goal of ensuring proper stewardship of the traditional territory and protection of cultural heritage resources. Specializing in heritage management and natural resource stewardship in 14 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
British Columbia, Sugar Cane focuses on ethical management for responsible industry. “We take a holistic approach to a development in WLFN’s traditional territory, focusing first on stewardship,” says Dressler. “That’s a big part of it. But in addition to serving as stewards, we also look for opportunities for collaboration or business partnerships.” “The reality is that a solid economic foundation is necessary to make progress toward the goal of reconciliation. We’re trying to ensure that our community has a reasonable standard of living, that people are employed, and our businesses are generating revenue. That solid economic foundation allows WLFN members to continue to enjoy their spiritual practices and their culture,” says Dressler. “It’s that vision that drives our economic development efforts at WLFN.” For more information or to get in touch with Williams Lake First Nation, please visit www.wlfn.ca 15 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
16 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA Spread out over the Pacific Northwest and traversing the 49th parallel between Canada and the United States, the Syilx People of the Okanagan Nation comprises seven member communities over 11,282 Hectares. These communities lie in the Southern Interior of British Columbia: Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB), Osoyoos Indian Band, Penticton Indian Band, Upper Nicola Band, Upper and Lower Similkameen Indian Bands, and Westbank First Nation; and in Northern Washington State, the Colville Confederated Tribes. A distinct and sovereign Nation, all members share the same land, nsyilxcen language, culture, and customs. Today the Syilx Okanagan People continue to assert their jurisdiction and responsibility over the stewarding of their land, resources and quality of life of their citizens.
17 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
18 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA “At the heart of what the Syilx Okanagan People believe is that we have come from the land and animals themselves. Before humans were created, animal people lived on the land and gave up themselves along with their ways, beliefs, practices, and experiences for the people-to-be.” WATER QUALITY The Okanagan Indian Band, which is the northernmost community in the Syilx Nation, lays at the head of the Okanagan Lake near Vernon, BC. Despite being located on the Okanagan Lake, it is almost ironic that some members of the Syilx Nation have never known what it is like to have clear, clean drinking water flowing from their taps, despite living so to a close to an abundance of water. Okanagan Indian Band has six water systems, five of which have water quality issues. For years, high levels of manganese in the Irish Creek/Head of the Lake community water system have led to drinking water advisories related to both poor water quality and insufficient supply. Manganese, which causes aesthetic issues like discoloured water (brownish red), staining of clothing and plumbing fixtures (faucets, sinks), and tastes and odours. Manganese can also have health effects, particularly for young infants and children, including neurological and behavioural effects, as well as deficits in memory, attention and motor skills. In addition to the manganese issue, the water quality was generally poor (appearance, taste, and odour). The Okanagan Indian Band needed safe water. The Head of the Lake community water system
19 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA currently supplies water to about 80 homes totalling around 240 people. “We deserve clean drinking water, water that you can take from the tap and drink.” TIME FOR CHANGE In the summer of 2021, it became clear that the community’s current well was approaching the end of its life, and the community was at risk of losing their water supply at any given time. Coinciding with the well issues was a serious shortage of reservoir capacity which hindered Okanagan Indian Band’s ability to provide adequate fire protection for the community. “All of these issues created a rush to find a fast solution to our problem, which in turn brought us to using an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) approach,” says Vincent. The Okanagan Indian Band’s Water Systems Improvement Project is the first time in Canada that a First Nation community used an IPD model to complete an infrastructure project funded by Indigenous Services Canada. IPD is a collaborative approach to construction that brings all the project’s stakeholders together early to clearly establish a vision for the project and layout the plan to collaboratively achieve that vision. At the beginning of the project, the owner selects
20 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA The following is an excerpt on the definition and translation of the nsyilxcn word for water. This definition will help to provide context on why the natural world is so important and the relationality between humans and water itself. The “nsyilxcn word for water; the meaning comes from (siw) and (łkʷ). The (siw) comes from siwst – to drink (human). The (łkʷ) comes from łkʷitkʷ to lap (animal). Together the two parts identify the syilx ethic that the right to water is equal for animals and humans. siwłkʷ is sacred as the sources of all life on the tmxʷulaxʷ” (Marlowe Sam and Jeannette Armstrong). WATER IS OUR LIFE BLOOD
21 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA the project team prior to design. Stakeholders in this project include Okanagan Indian Band, Urban Systems, Bird Dawson Joint Venture, and trade partners. BENEFITS OF THE IPD MODEL IPD model allowed Okanagan Indian Band to access high levels of expertise and talents that not all bidders could provide individually. “Despite supply chain issues, this project proceeded as planned. That’s quite an accomplishment these days,” says Vincent. “Because we had our full team together early in the design process, we were able to identify critical long lead items, such as hydrants, electrical components, etc. Ordering these early allowed us to be in control of our schedule during a time of supply chain issues and price volatility.” For example, the IPD Team pre-purchased PVC pipe for the watermain; there was a price increase of around 15 percent within 2 weeks of placing the order, which saved the project money. “For our community it has always been a juggling act to keep quality, budget, and timeline within acceptable standards,” says Vincent. “The IPD model brought in the best of the business and provided the platform to create a space for everyone to have a voice and vision to make the project run as smoothly and as efficiently as possible.”
22 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA The IPD model also allowed the OKIB to apply Lean Construction principles and focus on risks and potential mitigation strategies. “There are many factors that make a project successful and IPD is one factor,” says Vincent. “It also takes commitment, focus, good planning, and sound budgeting. Our IPD model allowed us to build the team that was needed for successful completion of the project.” SCOPE OF THE PROJECT Starting in September 2021, the goal of the IPD project was to double the water storage capacity by building two new reservoirs and interconnecting two systems by expanding an existing water system with a good source/water treatment. This was accomplished by installing 2.2 km of piping, building a Control Valve Station, and upgrading wells and the water treatment plant. The end result is a resilient water system with safe and clean water in abundant quantities for personal use and for fire protection. LEADERSHIP In-house leadership was another success of the project. The project was led by a Syilx Okanagan woman who lives on OKIB, the project superintendent is Indigenous, all IPD team members completed Indigenous Cultural Training, and Knowledge Keepers and Elders came to the IPD team to provide teachings. The results were a project delivered on budget and with zero workplace injuries. “By any measure, this project is successful,” says Vincent. BETTER WATER QUALITY AND CAPACITY On December 19, 2022, the OKIB received approval from the First Nations Health Authority to lift the manganese water quality advisory for the HOL/Irish Creek area.
23 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA “OKIB has advocated for these water improvements for decades,” says Vincent, “so it’s a real feeling of accomplishment, trust, and pride with the change in this water.” “You have to understand what it is like to not have access to clean, potable water to appreciate the improvement,” says Vincent. “Most of us take it for granted that you can turn on a tap and safe, clean water comes out. That was not always the case. Bathtubs would fill with yellowish water, our toilets became uncleanable due to the staining, coffee makers would only last half the year due to the hard water build up and dishwashers and sinks looked ancient after only a few months.” The improvements to the quality of life on the OKIB thanks to clean water is immeasurable. “Now, people living at the Head of the Lake and Irish Creek areas have safe water,” says Vincent. For more information, please visit www.okib.ca
A proud First Nation, home to more than 800 Band Members, Fort McMurray 468 First Nation (FMFN468) is a Cree band located approximately 40 kilometres southeast of Fort McMurray, Alberta. A Treaty 8 Nation and member of the Athabasca Tribal Council, which represents five First Nation bands in northeast Alberta, the Nation is governed by Chief Neil Cheecham and two Councillors; Samantha Whalen and Angela Ross. The Nation is guided by its eight community pillars, created with community input, to deliver long-term economic and social benefits to its Members. With an emphasis on economic development, capacity building, nurturing the welfare of its Members through focused programs and services, and revitalizing cultural and traditional practices, FMFN468 and its businesses are supporting the growth and sustainability of the community. This mission is at the heart of the Fort McMurray First Nation Group of Companies and Fort McMurray 468 First Nation Economic Development. 24 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
25 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
FMFN GROUP A wholly-owned business entity of FMFN468, the Fort McMurray First Nation Group of Companies (FMFN Group) was originally incorporated as Christina River Enterprises in 1987, before rebranding in 2021. One hundred per cent Nation-owned and operated, FMFN Group started with a pallet shop and janitorial services, expanding over the years to include four successful businesses: Construction, Custodial, Transportation, and a Petro-Canada Fuel and Convenience Store operating on the Nation. “We are focused on providing high quality, reliable and safe services that create economic benefit for the Nation and opportunities for Nation Members,” says FMFN Group CEO Steve Jani. “With our Group of Companies as an important revenue generator, we are supporting the sustainable growth of our Nation, meeting infrastructure needs, and delivering a full range of programs and services to promote the personal growth, healing, and well-being of our Members,” Chief Neil Cheecham says. Indeed, in 2021, FMFN Group generated more than $5 million in net profits to support infrastructure projects and Member healthcare, education, and other community programs and services. Fort McMurray 468 First Nation 26 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Fort McMurray 468 First Nation Economic Development (FMFN468 Economic Development) is an evolution of FMFN Group’s success in establishing strong business partnerships, supporting revenue growth, and creating meaningful employment opportunities for Nation Members and additional service lines to the Group of Companies. Launched in April 2022, FMFN468 Economic Development is a stand-alone entity focused on contributing to the sustainable growth of the Nation and well-being of its Members. “FMFN468 Economic Development was established to lead joint business ventures and equity opportunities and develop and manage business partnerships and industry relationships for both the Nation and FMFN Group,” says Ryan Coish, Vice President of Business Development. “All revenue generated supports Member programs and services, housing initiatives, and infrastructure projects on the Nation.” Business partners value the Nation’s economic stability, good governance and leadership’s commitment to transparency and accountability, commitment to meaningful business relationships, and the strong involvement of Elders in helping to chart the Nation’s path forward, ensuring community sustainability for generations to come. The oil and gas sector in Alberta plays a significant role in the Canadian economy. However, it is also a significant contributor to tailings, waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and other environmental impacts. To address these challenges and improve sustainability, companies in the sector are increasingly turning to consulting firms and new technologies. Breakwater Vantage is helping oil and gas companies in Alberta to identify and implement best practices for sustainability. This includes strategies for reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and reducing waste; by adopting renewable energy sources, implementing water treatment systems, and reducing their carbon footprint. Water treatment is an important aspect of sustainability in the oil and gas sector. Companies must manage and treat the large volumes of water used in the extraction process to minimize environmental impacts. This includes removing impurities, controlling discharge, and managing the water used in hydraulic fracturing. Breakwater Vantage supports companies in managing their resources in an environmentally responsible manner by offering expertise in areas such as carbon footprint analysis, waste treatment, chemical optimization, GHG emission analysis, asset assessments, and oil and gas mining/exploration. The goal is to promote sustainability and minimize environmental impact through the implementation of strategies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance water management, optimize asset use, and advance the adoption of clean energy technologies. To achieve this, Breakwater Vantage leverages technological innovations, facilitates policy changes, and drives cultural shifts to support the transition to a more sustainable energy system and solution. Breakwater Vantage continuously strives towards advancing sustainability by providing eco-friendly solutions, executing conscientious methods, and utilizing state-of-the-art technologies. Our objective is to optimize the utilization of Alberta's natural resources in a manner that is both environmentally responsible and sustainable, reducing any harmful effects on the environment. Gain knowledge, understand new technologies, address blind spots, and eliminate/reduce emissions; to further drive industry as a whole to address gaps in a timely and effective manner. Asset intelligence is important in data aggregation to identify risk currently flying under the radar by bringing additional visibility to the entire operations. www.breakwatervantage.com 27 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY This inaugural report showcases how the Nation’s leadership and FMFN Group, its employees, and industry partners are working together to build a vibrant, resilient, and self-sufficient community. “More than $5 million in net profits generated by FMFN Group was reinvested in essential community services—including $330,000 in Partnership Educational funding to support 20 post-secondary students from the Nation,” says Jani. A new water treatment facility to connect on-reserve homes and buildings to the regional water supply and sewage system is being built,” says Coish, “and with that comes the added benefit of creating job opportunities and income by using Nation-owned businesses for some of the work.” “Along with a wide range of programs and services to support the well-being of our Members, we host several cultural events throughout the year to educate and connect Members to their language and traditions,” says FMFN468 Councillor Samantha Whalen. For example, in 2021, the Nation held a Residential School Awareness Walk to allow community Members an opportunity to mourn and honour Survivors, while raising public awareness. Ten tons of waste was removed and disposed of sustainably during the annual Community Clean-Up, engaging and employing youth as part of the initiative. Steve Jani, CEO, FMFN Group Jonathan Ross, Busi Manager, FMFN468 Ec Ryan Coish, VP of Business Development, FMFN468 Economic Development 28 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
In the fall of 2023, the Nation will release its groundbreaking 2022 Indigenous ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) report (IESG). “Building on the 2021 Sustainability Report to Community, the report will demonstrate our ongoing commitment to sustainability for the Nation and iness Development conomic Development Fred Cree, Business Development Manager, FMFN468 Economic Development Chad Shkopich, Business Development Manager, FMFN468 Economic Development YOUR WELDING EXPERTS. We weld better together. Welding services including: • Structural welding for shovel shutdowns • Shovel Bucket rebuilds. • Dump body rebuilds. 29 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Members, founded in traditional Indigenous values, culture, and practices,” says Chief Cheecham. The Nation looks forward to sharing this innovative report that identifies new metrics inclusive of Indigenous values and priorities, as well as reporting on select global reporting metrics to align with their industry partners. LOOKING FORWARD “The Economic Development team is focused on delivering long-term benefits to the Nation through the development of business and equity opportunities founded on strong, strategic partnerships,” says Coish. For example, Enbridge and 23 First Nation and Métis communities – including FMFN468 – announced an agreement in September 2022 for the communities acquire a non-operating interest in seven Enbridge pipelines in the Athabasca region of northern Alberta. A newly created entity, Athabasca Indigenous Investments, will steward this investment—representing the largest energy-related Indigenous economic partnership transaction in North America to date. Through the Astisiy partnership, Suncor Energy has joined with eight Indigenous communities in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, including FMFN468, to acquire all of TC Energy’s 15 per cent equity interest in the Northern Courier Pipeline FMFN Group CEO w 30 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Limited Partnership—providing long-term, stable revenues that will benefit the communities for decades to come. Working together with the Economic Development team, FMFN Group is focusing on the continued growth of its four divisions in alignment with its organizational core values: Community, Continuous Improvement, Collaboration, and Care. FMFN468 Economic Development and FMFN Group are also looking forward to welcoming representatives of companies from across the energy services sector and other industries to their annual trade show, scheduled for May 25, 2023, in Calgary. with Business Partners Arkon Solutions FMFN468 Councillor Angela Ross with Business Partners Civeo Economic Development Team at Trade Show 2022 31 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
32 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
“It’s a free event and a great day of networking and relationship-building. Our theme for this year is ‘Sustaining Future Generations.’ Attendees will have the opportunity to meet our business partners and learn more about how we are working together to support economic and social equity for the Nation while driving mutually beneficial business opportunities and growth,” says Coish. Together, FMFN468 Economic Development and FMFN Group are supporting the Nation’s commitment to care for its people, culture, and land, “thriving in economic sustainable opportunities that create self sufficiency and a vibrant healthy community.” For more information, please visit fmfn468.com, fmfngroup.com, and fmfneconomicdevelopment.com FMFN468’S BUSINESS CORE VALUES 33 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
34 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
For more than 40 years, the G.H. Dawe Community Centre has provided recreation and cultural opportunities for Red Deer and Central Alberta. With it being in operation for four decades, it has given parents the opportunity to skate with their children on the same rinks they grew up on and swim in the same pools where they learned to swim. While the Centre has maintained its young-atheart feel when you walk through the doors, it was beginning to show its age, which precipitated a major and exciting expansion and renovation project that will bring the facility to modern standards by early 2023. At the centre of the $44 million project are the arenas; the existing surface is being upgraded to NHL standards, with a second surface being introduced. Other enhancements include an additional north entrance to the building, improved traffic flow, more parking, upgraded fitness spaces, 35 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
and an outdoor spray park for little ones—officially known as Woody’s Spray Park thanks to a personal donation from Woody Paylor, a long time community supporter. “The G.H. Dawe Community Centre is an important asset in our community that has served Red Deer and area since 1982,” says Curtis Martinek C.E.T. Facilities and Asset Management Superintendent for The City of Red Deer. “This recreation facility is a hub for neighbourhood connection, active living, family activities and sport programming. The overall amenity is a shared asset through partnerships with two schools: G.H. Dawe School and St. Patrick’s Community School as well as the Red Deer Public Library.” The facility underwent its first phase of renovations 36 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
in 2007 to modernize spaces and ensure the amenities met the needs of Red Deerians. This renovation included upgrades to the existing 25 metre 4-lane lap pool, along with two new waterslides, a leisure pool, a splash pool and spray features, a hot tub, steam room, sauna, as well as a small fitness area, fitness studio, three activity rooms, gymnasium, food services space and a childminding area. In 2016, Council approved Principles to Guide the Development of Future Ice. The GH Dawe Community Centre location presented the possibility to achieve economies of scale in operations with twin ice operations that could be combined with operations of a multi-purpose recreation facility. In 2020, Red Deer City Council approved the capital construction budget following completion of the facility design by Group2 Architecture Interior Design. Funding for the project was also received from the Government of Canada through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) grant and the Alberta Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI). In the spring of 2021, CANA Group of Companies was successful in its bid to supply www.cana.ca Proud supporter of the City of Red Deer and honoured to be delivering the GH Dawe Community Centre Expansion 37 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
38 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Construction Management Services to the project, with shovels hitting the ground that same year. “Having twin arenas in Red Deer’s north offered opportunity for a geographical balance of amenities for our community and was also an attractive location with proximity to other amenities that would support tournament hosting, such as hotels, restaurants and access to Highway 2,” says Martinek. “The existing arena at the GH Dawe Community Centre did not conform to NHL dimensions for competitive play, had antiquated operating systems, and required modernization to change rooms and support spaces.” The new arena design provided a natural footprint to support the addition of fitness amenities on the second level. Like other successful recreation centres, the addition of expanded fitness spaces at the GH Dawe Community Centre provides affordable and accessible active living service delivery that compliments the overall operation of the multi-purpose facility. Precast and steel started to arrive early in 2022, and the super structure was completed by July. The facility was weather tight by October and crews have been hard at work on the interior of the facility with rough-ins, framing, masonry work, arena slab preps and pours and are now into the finishing stages of the project. To keep the project on time and on budget, materials were ordered early to 39 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
mitigate the risks of market volatility and product availability. “However a rainy spring outside of anyone’s control did cause a four-week impact to the overall schedule. Even with the delays, we are on track to open the expansion area at the Dawe late February 2023. The facility is really starting to take shape as CANA and their trade partners work to complete the project,” says Martinek. Once in full swing, The City is eager to welcome back the 400,000 annual visitors that used the amenities pre-pandemic. Naturally, the last three years have had significantly reduced traffic with the decommissioning of the old arena coupled with extended facility closures (i.e. both pandemic and construction related), but visitation rates are expected to exceed pre-pandemic rates once everything is up and running. In February 2023, The City is looking forward to welcoming the community to the Dawe expansion area with a Rediscover Dawe event. Woody’s Spray Park will open a few months later with an official grand opening of the spray park in the Summer of 2023. Details of the events will be released closer to the dates. For more information, please visit www.reddeer. ca/recreation-and-culture/recreation/recreationfacilities/gh-dawe-community-centre The enhancements to the GH Dawe Community Centre include: • Modernization (replacement) of the existing ice arena surface to NHL standards • Additional of a second ice arena surface meeting NHL standards • Addition of a north entrance to the building and site access off 67 Street to improve site traffic flow • Additional parking on the north side of the site • Design and addition of accessible spaces for inclusive use, such as in arena changerooms, spectator seating, pool change rooms and programming space • Expansion of fitness and programming space, including a running track • Outdoor spray park and washroom facility in the northeast quadrant of the property • Four separate public art installations throughout new expansion areas 40 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
41 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
42 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
By 1920, after almost a century of construction, all of the Trent-Severn’s linkages—over 40 locks, 50km of manmade canals, and approximately 150 dams—created a fully-navigable system that is used and beloved as a recreational boating and world-famous tourist destination with over a million visitors every year. Parks Canada structures can be found in many of the communities that border the Trent-Severn Waterway, and they provide the essential infrastructure that connects people, supports tourism and preserves public safety. The Government of Canada is investing approximately $855M to support infrastructure work along the Nassau Guard Gate 43 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site as part of the largest federal infrastructure plan in the history of Parks Canada. Funding was first received as part of Budget 2014, and as of April 2022, approximately $786M has been spent, with project work ongoing. Through infrastructure investments, Parks Canada is protecting and conserving national treasures while supporting local economies and contributing to growth in the tourism sector and has delivered approximately 70 projects to date. “It’s a rare opportunity to get inside the minds of the original builders and better inform our efforts to maintain the historical character of each place,” says David Britton, Director of Ontario Waterways. “What makes these projects so unique is how the past interacts with our present, even our future. The start of any rehabilitation project can, in many ways, feel like cracking open a time capsule.” Investments in heritage, visitor, waterway and highway infrastructure ensure safe, high-quality and meaningful experiences for visitors, enabling Canadians to discover nature and connect with history, says Britton. “Infrastructure projects in National Historic Sites are guided by our Cultural Resource Management Policy, Standards and Coboconk Dam 44 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
45 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA Over 55 Years of Integrity in Building Excellence. Our roots are in marine construction and through more than 55 years of experience, Maple Reinders has become a leader in the design and construction of waterway and hydroelectric structures, including the rehabilitation work on Ontario’s Historic Trent-Severn Waterway. maple.ca Mississauga Calgary Cambridge Kelowna Halifax Edmonton Vancouver • • • • • • Proud to be part of this tremendous project
Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places, Historic Canals Regulations and Parks Canada’s mandate to preserve and protect Canada’s natural and cultural heritage.” Investments in the preservation and restoration of national historic sites will protect these important heritage places for future generations. “Maximum integrity possible” is the dictating principle on a project such as this. “Cultural resources of national significance are replaced in situ,” says Britton. “We do this by examining the character-defining elements of the place and then incorporating as many as possible into the design of new assets to maintain the continuity of the landscape and historical feel. When it comes to historic assets, we rely heavily on the original design drawings and contract documents from our archives to guide our design choices.” MINIMAL DISRUPTION Nearly 1.5 million people visit or use the Waterway a year, making working around the public a major consideration in the planning phase of these projects. “Parks Canada makes every effort to minimize disruption caused by infrastructure projects for residents, the boating public as well as land-based visitors that enjoy the Trent-Severn Waterway,” Britton says. During the navigation Red Pine Lake 46 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
season, projects involving dams and swing bridges adjacent to the navigation channel cannot impact the safe passage of vessels. Still, the more significant issue can be completing work outside of the navigation season to ensure that boats can be back on the water when the navigation season opens again. Lock projects, for example, must happen outside of navigation season. This brings with it the complications of construction under winter conditions—for example, requiring the temporary enclosure and heating of areas to protect the construction works.” OPERATIONAL AND NATURAL FACTORS Because the work is done alongside the public, safety has to be and is a top priority for Parks David Britton - Director, Ontario Waterways 47 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA cima.ca Proud to participate in the preservation and restoration of national historic sites of the Trent-Severn Waterway.
Healey Falls Flight Lock 48 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Canada. The Agency has a requirement to manage water levels and flows across the waterway system at all times to account for potential floods, droughts and to maintain navigation. This requires that dam and bridge construction be completed in phases, or a specifically designed bypasses must be put in place during construction to ensure we can meet our water management responsibilities. “If we block any of these flows between February and May, adjacent properties may be impacted. Parks Canada project teams take this risk very seriously and plan our projects accordingly,” says Britton. Other environmental factors such as fish spawning windows, turtle nesting times, species at risk requirements are also considered, as are limits to the timing of tree removal related to migratory bird nesting. PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS Parks Canada continues to engage with First Nations communities on the work program, mainly in archaeological studies and environmental monitoring. Stakeholder groups have sometimes been involved in some aspects of the work, as in the case of turtle nest protection at Thompson’s Bay Dam. Coordination with municipalities has been essential to minimize overlapping impacts from their own projects. At times, agreements for Bolsover Dam 49 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
a land lease for access and staging have been needed with the provincial government, municipal authorities and private land owners. Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Transport Canada have authorized large dam projects. Public Services and Procurement Canada have assisted with some of the contract tender processes and, at times, overall project management. According to Britton, big projects require big solutions. Where the original builders might have used hand tools, today, builders use heavy machinery. A dam in what was once the middle of remote wilderness or farmers’ field now sits at the centre of a thriving community. “There are modern challenges that come with closures to certain areas and disruptions in traffic,” says Britton. “There can be a lot of noise and vibration centred around a project. All of this can cause concerns among residents and business owners. Parks Canada has made efforts throughout the program of work to ensure pre-project, proactive engagement has occurred, and then ongoing updates on projects have been communicated to the public and stakeholders, along with efforts in planning and executing projects to minimize the impacts as much as possible.” Esson Lake Earth Embankment 50 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE This program of work has been the largest federal investment of funding into the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site since it was created. With each new project, Canadians learn even more about the ambitious engineering and skilled labour that went into the Waterway’s original construction. We also learn more about how much communities depend on a safe and functional Waterway and the real impacts each project has on the continued health of our ecosystems and economies. “Along the way,” says Britton, “We have discovered new ways to engage stakeholders in the shared interest of a sustainable Waterway, and we have created new opportunities for collaboration with the next generation. With this historic investment in infrastructure, Parks Canada has worked hard to preserve the National Historic Site and ensure that the many people that live, work, and play here can enjoy it safely for generations to come.” For more information, please visit https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/trentsevern Campbellford Dam 11 51 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
As part of SMC’s 2022 Turnaround, the company donated up to $1,000 for every injury/incident free day earned. As a result, $116,000 was donated to YWHO (Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario) for the operation/opening of a new youth focused mental health facility in Sarnia, Ontario which is slated to open this Spring. 52 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
53 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Originally opened in 1952 under the ownership of Canadian Oil, Shell purchased the refinery in Corunna in 1963. Every hour, SMC makes enough gasoline for a family’s lifetime consumption! 54 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
For over seven decades, the Shell Refinery in Corunna, ON, has been a staple of the Sarnia area horizon, and it continues to be an important part of the local community and economy. Business Elite Canada spoke with Shell about how it marked this special milestone in 2022. HISTORY Originally opened in 1952 under the ownership of Canadian Oil, Shell purchased the refinery in Corunna in 1963. Throughout its entire history this refinery (known as the Sarnia Manufacturing Centre) has been proud to be a part of the community— supporting direct and indirect employment and the local and provincial economy. The Shell refinery has been a vital component to Ontario’s transportation industry for seven decades by processing up to 85,000b/d of crude oil, which is then converted and refined to help meet southern Ontario’s transportation fuel needs. The refinery also provides key base materials for chemicals and propane producers in the Sarnia area, including for the Shell Chemical plant adjacent to the refinery. The Shell Chemical plant, built in the 1970s, is a key North American producer of IsoPropyl Alcohol—a key ingredient in hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and The Shell Refinery has been a vital component to Ontario’s transportation industry for seven decades. Shell’s Sarnia Manufacturing Centre (SMC) facing west to the St. Clair River and state of Michigan. 55 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Artist John Williams’ Commissioned Artwork To mark the refinery’s 70th anniversary and pay tribute to the Indigenous people on who’s land the site is located, Shell’s Sarnia Manufacturing Centre commissioned artwork by Aamjiwnaang First Nation artist, John Williams, for installation on one of their storage tanks. The piece speaks to the strength and beauty of the Ojibway culture and demonstrates Shell’s strong relationship with their Indigenous neighbours and acknowledges and supports the road to reconciliation in Canada. This was an opportunity for the artist, John Williams, to share the beauty of his culture with a wider audience. “This painting is a tribute to the people, to our relationship with Shell, and their acknowledgment that this is First Nation’s territory” he said. “To all of those who embrace our culture, to those of native ancestry, and those who don’t know their culture, my hope is this painting will touch your heart and be a beacon of light and hope.” Our ceremonies, songs and dances once again thrive, “John added. “The Ojibway Spirit lives in your heart.” He is proud of the work and of the opportunity to showcase his art and his culture. Shell is honoured to share his artwork as part of our celebration of 70 years in St. Clair Township, just south of Sarnia, Ontario. Indigenous artist, John Williams, proudly shows off his beautiful new piece of artwork to guests at the unveiling ceremony. 56 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
other medical uses—which has never been more top of mind as in the 2020s. “Now more than ever, essential services such as healthcare, food distribution, and sanitation depend on a reliable energy supply,” says Olwen Gover, Corporate Relations Advisor for Shell. “But what is less known is that our industry is also making some of the key ingredients in products that helps to slow the spread of COVID-19 such as hand sanitizers, soaps and surface cleaners. The Shell Chemical plant is a key North American producer of IsoPropyl Alcohol—a key ingredient in hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and other medical uses.” In 2020, Shell stepped up to help the Canadian healthcare sector by donating 125,000 litres of isopropyl alcohol, or IPA, to the Government of Canada free of charge. IPA makes up about half the content of hand-sanitizing liquids, and Shell’s donation is approximately enough to create nearly one million 12-oz bottles of hand sanitizer for use in hospitals and medical facilities. 70 YEARS IN SARNIA “70 years is a big milestone, and we are proud to be a part of the fabric of the heritage of our company in the community,” says GM Kevin McMahon. “Our people have always lived, worked, and played in the community in which we work and we continue to put in the time and effort to ensure the community is better for having us in it.” To mark their 70-year milestone, Shell hosted a number of events internally and externally, including a Community Thank You event and a Community Open House. Additionally, in 2022 the Shell Refinery executed the largest Maintenance Turnaround in its 70-year history which culminated in a substantial investment in the site and local community, and which will keep the site running efficiently and effectively for years to come. For this event, approximately 700 craft were hired through local halls and there was significant spend with local vendors for materials, services, pre-fabricated equipment, and more. On Sept. 16, SMC unveiled a new piece of artwork on one of it’s storage tanks by Indigenous artist, John Williams. The painting, which measures approximately 30’ high by 100’ wide) is a tribute to and celebration of the strength and beauty of Indigenous cultures! Members of SMC’s Site Leadership Team and Extended Leadership Team proudly pose in front of a site storage tank which now displays new artwork from Aamjiwnaang First Nation’s John Williams. 57 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
Shell believes kindness is within us all. In 2022, the company had a goal to complete 70 acts of kindness in celebration of its 70th anniversary. That goal was exceeded, and through it’s Powering Positivity initiatives Shell continues to invest in the communities we live and work in to build a happier/healthier Canada. Goal Zero is a program built around Shell’s philosophy of causing zero harm to people and the environment. 70 years is a big milestone, and we are proud to be a part of the fabric of the heritage of our company in the community. 58 FEB 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTE4MTQ=