Cold Lake café closes after losing customers over separatist event: ‘Nail in the coffin’

Cold Lake café owner John Ewanek shut down his business after hosting separatist events that drove away customers, calling it "a nail in the coffin." The café, named Beantrees, had been a staple in the community since 1999. Ewanek, 55, said he purchased the business from its previous owner in 2024 and had been struggling with financial pressures due to inflation before the events began. He hosted multiple gatherings for a group advocating for Alberta's secession from Canada, aiming to collect signatures for a referendum. Following these events, customers who did not support his views stopped visiting, leading to the closure of the café in late June. Ewanek is now selling his assets to manage his finances. Ewanek explained that the separatist activities led to additional setbacks. Musicians scheduled to perform at the café canceled their appearances, and a sign with an expletive was left outside the establishment condemning the events. Despite the loss of income, Ewanek maintains his stance on Alberta's potential independence. He plans to vote in favor of a second referendum on the province's status within Canada, aligning himself with the separatist movement. His involvement in the movement dates back to the early days of the pandemic, when he opposed public health measures such as mask mandates, citing personal struggles with anxiety. Ewanek argued that Alberta should separate from Canada due to perceived mismanagement of the food supply. He criticized the domestic food system, stating that insufficient local production and high levels of processing have made him unable to consume commercially produced chicken. He believes the issue extends beyond personal preference, suggesting systemic problems with how food is sourced and prepared in the province. The separatist movement in Alberta has gained traction, though polls indicate that a majority of residents still prefer remaining part of Canada. However, the debate has caused divisions within communities. Recent incidents highlight tensions, such as the cancellation of a rodeo parade in Sundre, northwest of Calgary, after organizers faced threats and abuse for rejecting a float adorned with Alberta flags. Similarly, a pro-separation billboard in Taber drew controversy, as its creator, Cory Morgan, refused to remove it despite being ordered to do so by local authorities. Prime Minister Mark Carney has expressed concerns about the separatist movement, likening it to Brexit and warning against the unrealistic promises made by some advocates. He emphasized the risks associated with separation, urging caution in considering such drastic political changes. Meanwhile, the Alberta government, under Premier Danielle Smith, has included a question on the upcoming October 19 referendum asking voters whether they wish to remain in Canada or pursue another binding referendum on leaving the country. This decision follows the success of a separatist petition, which collected nearly 223,000 signatures out of approximately 280,000 submitted, surpassing the required threshold. The ongoing debate over Alberta's future reflects broader societal divides, with individuals and groups expressing strong opinions on the direction of the province. As the referendum approaches, the impact of such movements on local businesses and communities continues to be evident, underscoring the complex interplay between politics and everyday life.