City Life Magazine Vaughan Toronto December 2011/January 2012

ON CLOUD WITH

9

Robert Deluce Publication Mail Agreement 40026675

p. 18

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CONTENTS

66

Suite Escapes

ON THE COVER 18 Top Gun Robert Deluce: On the wings of Porter Airlines’ CEO

FOOD 58 Baking with the Boss: Get frosty with Buddy Valastro

CELEBRITY 68 Kim and the City: The Sex and the City star goes public on her private life

SHOPPING 10 Store Watch: Loro Jewellery 48 Holiday Wish List: Cut your shopping time in half with our festive guide

FEATURES 23 Inspire: Canadians volunteer their time for the greater good 70 Marshall Kaplan: A Vaughan producer draws on his destiny 72 The Boy with the Fedora: SickKids ambassador Joey Mazzucco on the fight of his life TRAVEL 74 Links of London: Connect to heights of history with the London Underground FASHION 46 Run-a-Way with Me: Canadian fashion houses walk the line at LG Fashion Week

46

Fashion Week

23

Inspire

Holiday Wish List

Links of London

Robert DeLuce

Kim Cattral

48

74

18

68

Dec/Jan 2011/12 Volume 9 Issue 6

GENERAL INTEREST 38 60 Tips: How to live a stunningly great life by Robin Sharma REAL ESTATE 66 Suite Escapes: Go big and go home with Toronto hot spots AUTOMOTIVE 64 Chevrolet Volt: Get charged with the latest in electric vehicles IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Publisher’s Note 12 Editor’s Note 14 People & Places 82 Horoscope: Look to the stars this season

58

The Cake Boss

48

Holiday Wish List

6 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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“For it was not into my

ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul.” ~ Judy Garland

Introducing Christopher Valente’s One Love Collection

Happy Holidays Peace & Joy for the New Year!

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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Fantastic Kitchens Ltd.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michelle Zerillo-Sosa • michelle@dolce.ca MANAGING EDITOR Simona Panetta • simona@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & MARKETING Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca ART D E PARTM E NT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Fernando Zerillo • fernando@dolce.ca SENIOR DESIGNERS Christina Ban, Omar Cushnie GRAPHIC DESIGNER Serafino Catallo WEB PROJECT MANAGER Steve Bruno EDITORIAL BEAUTY/HEALTH & TRAVEL EDITOR Angela Palmieri-Zerillo FASHION & HOME DECOR EDITOR Michelle Zerillo-Sosa COPY EDITOR Simona Panetta PROOFREADER Simona Panetta WRITERS Michael Hill, Madeline Stephenson VIDEO EDITOR Will Lem INTERN Sal Pasqua CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Marcus Nilsson, Simona Panetta, Larry Arnal Photography, JC Photography & Co., George Pimentel A special thanks to Marshall Kaplan for our staff caricatures PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING T: 905.264.6789 • Toll Free: 1.888.68.DOLCE info@citylifemagazine.ca DIRECTOR NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Susan Bhatia OFFICE MANAGER Lina Posteraro

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NOW SATURDAY 8 City OPEN Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12 9 am - 2 pm

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Aleksandra Gorovic FRONT COVER Robert Deluce, Photo by Christoph Strube City Life Magazine • Volume 9 • Issue 6 • Dec/Jan 2011/12 City Life Magazine is published bi-monthly by Dolce Publishing Inc. 111 Zenway Blvd., Unit 30, Vaughan, ON L4H 3H9 T: 905.264.6789 • 1.888.68.DOLCE F: 905.264.3787 info citylifemagazine.ca • www.citylifemagazine.ca Subscribe online at www.citylifemagazine.ca or by calling 905.264.6789, TOLL FREE 1.888.68.DOLCE. City Life’s yearly subscription fee is $13.80. We accept Visa, MC & AMEX. Send cheque or money order to Dolce Publishing Inc. 111 Zenway Blvd. #30, Vaughan, ON, L4H 3H9 Publication Mail Agreement No. 40026675 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Dolce Publishing Inc., 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, ON L4H 3H9 All rights reserved. Any reproduction is strictly prohibited without written consent from the publishers.

DISTRIBUTION AND CIRCULATION Inquiries about where City Life Magazine is available for sale should be directed to: Transmedia Group Customer Service: 905.428.7541 ISSN 1206-1778 Next Issue: Feb/Mar 2012 The opinions expressed in City Life Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. Dolce Publishing Inc. does not assume liability for content. The material in this magazine is intended for information purposes only and is no way intended to supersede professional advice. We are proud to be a Canadian company that has successfully published magazines for the past 15 years without any government funding or financial assistance of programs to cover editorial costs. It has all been possible thanks to the wonderful support of our readers and advertisers.

©2011 Dolce Publishing Inc. • Printed in Canada

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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STORE WATCH

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

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“DON’T WAIT FOR THE PERFECT MOMENT, TAKE THE MOMENT AND MAKE IT PERFECT.” – Unknown

PERFECT MOMENTS As you read this issue, you will discover perfect moments.

Robert Deluce’s perfect moment is popping through the clouds with nothing but sunshine over his head (see story on p. 18). Susan Hay knows something about this, having once broadcasted weather predictions and now bringing light to a sky of grey as the spokesperson of various organizations like Ronald McDonald House Toronto.

Donna Trella’s perfect moment was being brought to tears at the 25th annual Crystal Ball fundraiser, which gives disabled youth the opportunity to go to summer camp (see Inspire on p. 23).

L’ORO JEWELLERY A tribute to quality and innovation was held at the Vaughan Mills Mall location of L’Oro Jewellery on Oct. 20, 2011. The exclusive event drew watch collectors together to preview the latest from luxury sports watchmaker Linde Werdelin.

These are but a few examples of how perfect moments are a part of everyone’s life.

The idea is not to look for major life-changing experiences, but rather, simple life events that bring a smile to our face and a good feeling in our hearts. In the upcoming weeks, we will all have plenty of opportunities to exercise this phenomenon of either experiencing perfect moments or bringing perfect moments to someone’s life. It could be waiting for us at a grocery store in the form of a big brown bin with the sign: Hunger Never Goes on Holidays! Perhaps it will be cuddling with your kids at the end of the day, or smiling at your child’s letter to Santa.

Recognized for carrying quality niche brands, L’Oro storeowner Haigo Derian expressed passion and excitement over the latest exclusive partnership with Linde Werdelin, a brand that fits L’Oro’s views on quality performance. “The basis of this brand is a philosophy that has no compromise. The micro-machining on the product is incredible, and what makes the brand special is how niche [it] is.

Last year, there were 400 units manufactured, and this year, we’re looking at about 500 – and everything manufactured is sold.”

My perfect moment last month was hearing that my dish in the Blue Dragon Cook Off had come in third place. Given that the prize to the winning chefs was a cash donation to a charity of our choice, I have to say it was a great feeling.

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1. Me with fellow contestant Rachel Mackay at the Blue Dragon Cook Off. 2. My dish comes in as the 3rd prize winner. 3. I explain to the judges how my dish of beef and veggie stir-fry came to be.

PHOTOS BY NTBCREATIVE.COM

May your Holidays and New Year be filled with perfect moments!

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The collection of pieces included the sophisticated White Watch timepiece and the evolutionary SpidoSpeed Chronograph, with the brand’s co-founder, Jorn Werdelin, on hand to answer questions about the vision and driving force of his brand. www.loro.ca 1: L’Oro Jewellery storeowner Haigo Derian with Linde Werdelin co-founder Jorn Werdelin at an exclusive in-store event. 2: The White Watch offers three different time zones and a bi-directional 24-hour bezel. 3: The SpidoSpeed Chronograph pushes the boundaries in design and construction.

GOOD DEEDS IN THE COMMUNITY: Thank you to all the volunteers, committee members and businesses that have donated numerous prizes for the silent and live auction for the Vitanova Foundation fundraiser.

A special thank you to Rita Appugliese, chair of Vitanova Celebration of Life fundraiser; Nancy Postiglione, Josie Restivo, Desiree China & Gifts; Cathey Salerno/Picaso Hair Salon, Sandra Macri, Gracious Living.

Through your actions, you are ambassadors of perfect moments.

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-In-Chief

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Cit y Life asks its staff: HOW DOES THE

Holiday

Season

INSPIRE YOU? 2

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Managing Editor

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.”

– George Eliot

he year is coming to a close, and with its ending we are reminded to evaluate our actions over the past 12 months.

Some may be disheartened by what they recall, but if we put aside the guilt of not yet fulfilling our goals or becoming that person we envisioned, we may find new possibilities on the horizon. As you turn the pages of this latest edition, you’ll soon discover individuals who faced a harsh world yet refused to submit or be discouraged.

Instead, they embraced an optimistic approach and took things in stride. Whether the Holidays have you feeling the winter blues or spinning around in all the marvel, it’s a time that signals a beginning to an end, and the chance for each of us to move a little higher, smile a little sweeter, and present a generosity that will inspire those around us. All you need is a little optimism.

Simona Panetta Managing Editor

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Simona Panetta Caricatures by Marshall Kaplan. www.marshallarts.ca

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1. Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, Editor-In-Chief/Publisher Festive songs, lights and the cheery moods of people bring serenity to my life. I find myself wishing for this feeling to last past the Holidays. 2. Angela Palmieri-Zerillo, Director Of Operations I’m inspired to give – not just material things – but to give more of myself and my time. I want to instill these virtues in my children while minimizing the emphasis on receiving gifts. We are so blessed, and I want my kids to be grateful for that!

3. Fernando Zerillo, Creative Director Family is so important. I enjoy being surrounded by the ones I love during Christmas. There is nowhere else I’d rather be than at home, snow falling, drinking hot chocolate with my family while watching Christmas movies!

4. Simona Panetta, Managing Editor The compassionate nature of the Holidays encourages me to look a little deeper, to listen more intently to the sound of falling snow.

Every moment is a gift waiting to be opened. 5. Lina Posteraro, Office Manager & Senior Accounts Manager I am inspired by the love of my family and friends and the meaning of Christmas. 6. Susan Bhatia, Director, New Business Development I’m inspired by the sincerity and generosity of others. A year ago some friends and I put together a sandwich drive for the homeless. An act of kindness is the best present one can give.

7. Omar Cushnie, Senior Designer I’m inspired to share my blessings with the less fortunate through charitable donations. 8. Christina Ban, Senior Designer I become inspired by all the fun shopping and thinking about the people I love. 9. Steve Bruno, Web Project Manager The season inspires me to drink egg nog, build snowmen, carol at my church and spend time with family and friends. 10. Serafino Catallo, Graphic Designer Playing CDs of carols and popular holiday songs that I loved as a kid for my own children to listen to reminds me of how some things go full circle and can’t ever be changed. 11. Michael Hill, Writer Knowing that many go without the comforts we enjoy inspires me to be better a person – both in action and in writing. 12. Will Lem, Video Editor What inspires me is all the classic holiday songs that play on the radio.

13. Madeline Stephenson, Writer Watching It’s a Wonderful Life by the fireplace with my family is a holiday tradition that reminds me to be grateful for all of life’s wonders.

14. Aleksandra Gorovic, Office Administrator This time of year allows me to enjoy the moments of a shared meal, and my memory of it will bond me to that time once again. 15. Sal Pasqua, Intern From carolers and Santa to the mall and frosted trees, the holiday season inspires me to eat like a polar bear, jump and play in the snow, and bundle up with a loved one.

12 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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PEOPLE & PLACES

Produced By Angela Palmieri

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1a: Rick Campanelli and Angie Smith from ET Canada. 1b: Cory Lee, T-Rexx, Patricia J from CP24, and friend. 1c: MidwayState. 2a: Celebrity chef David Adjey and gala director Anna Donato. 2b: Toronto police chief Bill Blair.

2c: Violinist Grenville Pinto.

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1. UGG AUSTRALIA LAUNCH UGG Australia celebrated the opening of its first Toronto store with an exclusive VIP event on Oct. 13, 2011. Guests enjoyed champagne, light bites and music as they mingled with Canadian talent. The new Yorkville store offers the UGG fall/winter 2011 collection and the Canadian debut of the high-fashion UGG Collection. www.uggaustralia.ca 2. DREAMS TAKE FLIGHT The 6th annual Dreams Take Flight gala was held on Oct. 20, 2011, at the Toscana Banquet and Conference Centre.

Seamus O’Regan of Canada AM hosted the event, which raises funds to bring special children to Disney every year. The successful evening included a live and silent auction, flights donated by Air Canada and autographed jerseys and hockey tickets provided by Brian Burke, general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs. www.dreamstakeflight.ca 3. CARITAS SCHOOL OF LIFE VISION MISSION Caritas, which offers a one-of-kind residential program with a multi-dimensional approach to recovery, hosts a number of fundraising events throughout the year. The Caritas community provides individuals the tools and skills needed to live as responsible, reliable, and productive members of society. For event information, call 416-748-9988. www.caritas.ca

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-b 3a: Caritas chairman, Michael Tibollo.

3b: LEFT TO RIGHT: Caritas fundraising manager Laura Tonelli, president Anthony DiBattista, foundation vice president Walter Simone, Rotary Club Woodbridge president Renata Pancini, and Caritas chairman Michael Tibollo. 3c: Caritas recognized its long-standing supporters, donors and contributors at this year’s Together Event, with a special presentation to Dr. Ralph Masi, the primary doctor at Caritas for over 20 years. 4: GTA McDonald’s owner/operators pose with $2 million cheque to the new Ronald McDonald House Toronto.

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4. RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE TORONTO McDonald’s owner/operators across the GTA, which include Larry Garber and Garry Garber from Vaughan, have committed a $2 million donation that will provide families a place to heal better together: the new Ronald McDonald House Toronto. The new house opened its doors on Nov. 18, 2011. www.rmhtoronto.org

14 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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P

iacere welcomes you to enjoy its traditional Italian cuisine in an upscale atmosphere.

PIACERE RISTORANTE 9311 Weston Rd. Unit #1 & 2 (Corner of Weston & Rutherford roads).

905.417.6400 www.piacere.ca

Zizi Trattoria

offers a memorable dining experience in a cosy atmosphere with friendly service.

ZIZI TRATTORIA 4040 Hwy 7 (west of Weston Road).

905.850.9875 www.zizi.ca

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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PEOPLE & PLACES

Produced By Angela Palmieri

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5a: Hosts Mad Dog and Maura Grierson of Virgin Radio Toronto entertain guests. 5b: L TO R: Roman Sharanewych, Christine Burych (CAMH), Enza Checchia and Benny Caringi, co-founders of Hats On For Awareness. 5c: Nicholas Rosaci, DIY designer, and celebrity designer Glen Peloso. 5d: Canadian singer Michael Burgess gives the keynote speech as well as performing a capella. 5e: Models from the annual Parade of Hats. 6: The Believe team: Maria Muia, Gianluca Muia, Gabriella Di Pietrantonio, Maria Natale, Sonia Genovese, Rosa Stalteri, Rosa Stalteri, Alessia Sili, Aaron King; Front left to right: additional Committee members Anna Siciliano and Maria Muia. 7a,b,c,d: Supporters from The Teresa Group get styled by Steve Roy, Mane Event founder; Heidi Hurtarte, co-owner of Lift Salon & Spa; Stracey Burtch, co-owner, Lift Salon & Spa; and April Maloney of April Maloney Salon. 8a: Guests have a great time dancing to live music. 8b: Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua presents a congratulatory certificate to Safehaven CEO Beverly Gordon, gala chair Tony Zingaro, and Board of Directors president Val Hortiguela.

5. THE HATSQUERADE Hats On For Awareness, a non-profit organization, hosts an annual fundraiser, The Hatsquerade, to support the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in its efforts to create widespread awareness of this disease. The organization has committed to raise $250,000 for the CAMH Volunteer Lounge at the hospital, which will provide a hub for client-focused activities and a Telephone Support Line, providing referrals to essential services. www.camh.net 6. MASQUERADE BALL On Oct. 21, 2011, the Believe committee hosted its 5th annual Masquarade Ball at the Venetian Banquet & Hospitality Centre. The soulful sounds of Carlo Simone and Christian Rocco Boni entertained as guests enjoyed a wonderful dinner and prizes. The total amount raised was $20,000. www.sickkidsfoundation.com 6

7. A HAIR CARE EXTRAVAGANZA Solo Bace, Lift Salon & Spa and April Maloney Salon created magic for children and families of The Teresa Group on Oct. 23, 2011. Proceeds from the 14th annual Mane Event Fundraiser made it possible for 700 children affected by HIV and AIDS to receive backpacks, school supplies, winter hats/mitts and a holiday party. www.teresagroup.ca

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8. SAFEHAVEN GALA CELEBRATES 21 YEARS The Bellvue Manor hosted over 650 guests for an evening of auction bidding, a five-course gourmet meal and live performances by George St. Kitts. Over $80,000 was raised in support of disabled children, making this year’s gala a success!

Gala chair Tony Zingaro says thank you to everyone involved. www.safehaven.to

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Photos 8a and 8b by AYMPhotography.

16 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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ADD SOME COLOUR TO YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON

It’s the season for family, friends and fun. The season for entertaining in a warm, cozy setting.

What better way to set the mood than in a freshly painted home that brings alive the spirit of the season? Come to Steeles Paint and let our decorating experts guide you on everything from colours and styles to tips on painting in winter. May your holidays be merry and colourful!

Canada’s biggest paint and decorating centre 905-850-4 040 • www.steelespaint.com www.citylifemagazine.ca 4190 Steeles Avenue • East of Pine Valley Drive

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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Robert

TOP GUN

DELUCE The Porter Airlines CEO finds a silver lining in a sky of competition.

Written By Simona Panetta

obert Deluce shows no signs of jet lag after touching down in Toronto just before sunrise. His red eye from California was preceded by a long day of aircraftfuelled meetings neither distracted nor tempted by the Golden State.

When we meet in his office at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport later that afternoon, it becomes apparent that the CEO and president of Porter Airlines isn’t the type of man that mixes business with pleasure, but a man who paradoxically puts forth a company that does.

mascot fashioned with leftover parts and pieces from Bombardier. The model was a gift from the aircraft company when it delivered Porter’s 20th Dash 8 Q400 turboprop back in 2010. In an advertising world saturated with puppies and bunnies, the raccoon seems an unlikely choice to represent a corporate brand, but Deluce applauds the curious creature for its persistent personality. “I think we have a lot of individuals who can be equally thought of as Mr., Mrs. or Miss Porter within our organization. I think they are quite determined, and they manage to find ways around the little challenges or speed bumps … they seem to come out on top in achieving the end-result.”

Deluce gestures warmly towards his office where to the left of his uncluttered desk rests a pile of framed portraits that chronicle his roots and achievements in the aviation industry. Despite their significance, they emit an unpretentious display as they rest on the floor stacked against the walls.

As former executive of the family business Air Ontario (which was sold to Air Canada), Deluce is well aware of the trajectory new entrants endure in a sky monopolized by travel juggernauts and unpredictable fuel prices. Six years after Deluce resigned as its CEO, Canada 3000 took an unexpected nosedive due to a decrease in passengers in a post 9-11 world. Other airlines stuck in the rut of the shaky airline scene include Skyservice Airlines and Roots Air, a start-up that closed the same year it opened.

He’s particularly amused by Mr. Porter in the room, a playful figure of the company

Born to aviation parents in a family of nine children, the Deluce name has been a fixture in the industry for more than five decades. Deluce’s father, Stanley Deluce, was a Hawker Hurricane fighter pilot for the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II before launching White River Air Services. The company eventually purchased Austin Airways, one of the oldest airlines in Canada to connect people to remote communities before its interest was sold to Air Canada in 1986. The family patriarch also broke new ground when he established air-ambulance jet service in Ontario. Deluce nostalgically selects a frame of his father from his collection, where the family patriarch is dressed in a tuxedo for his induction into the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame in 2008.

Internalizing the unrelenting qualities of his company’s furry face, Deluce has steered the regional airline of Porter through some difficult terrain. Long before the financial meltdown of 2008-2009, a strategic yet controversial bridge that would connect passengers to the island airport was proposed by the Toronto Port Authority

18 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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(TPA), but later cancelled by the city after former mayor David Miller, who opposed the project to preserve Toronto Harbour, was elected in 2003.

“The bridge not going ahead probably helped us in the end. It allowed us more time to put together a stronger management team, and to probably attract significantly stronger financing … It took us a couple more years to get ready and to do the alternative plan, but things happen for a reason, and we really haven’t look back,” says Deluce, who received an undisclosed amount of compensation after settling a lawsuit against the city of Toronto and the Canadian

www.citylifemagazine.ca

Photo By Christoph Strube

Robert Deluce, CEO and president of Porter Airlines.

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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Top: A Dash 8 Q400 Turboprop touches down at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

Above: In an ode to the early days of flying, Porter Airlines’ flight attendants are fitted in refined, retro uniforms.

Federal Government. Privately owned Porter, which has suspended an initial public offering, is waiting for an appropriate market and financing requirement to go public.

After the bridge setback, Deluce turned towards improving access to the airport, which resulted in two new ferries financed by the TPA. The romantic route to the airport arrives every 15 minutes and takes 90 seconds to reach the island airport, where there are two departure lounges. As early as next year, construction on a $45-million pedestrian-only tunnel proposed by the TPA will commence. “Sometimes you’re given a lemon, and sometimes you have to turn it into lemonade,” he says.

However shy and polite in his manners and conversation, Deluce is not one to be miscalculated when it comes to getting what he wants.

Since its inception, Deluce has shrewdly readied his course against major competitors such as Air Canada and WestJet, tightly controlling Porter’s breathing space in a climate stifled with volatility. “He’s setting out to run a very successful airline,” comments Joseph R. D’Cruz, a professor of strategic management at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management. In the same year that Porter Airlines launched, Air Canada was ejected from the island airport by the Deluce-owned Regco Holdings Inc. (now Porter Aviation Holdings), which purchased the terminal being used by Air Canada Jazz. This allowed Porter total domination at Billy Bishop – up until now. After an enduring court battle, Air Canada returned to the island earlier this year, operating 30 takeoff/landing slots compared to Porter’s 172. But Deluce doesn’t mind having his enemies closer: as the landlord of the airport’s operating bases, Air Canada has to pay him terminal fees.

“Air Canada really played into Deluce’s hands because it treated the airport very poorly.

Porter actually rescued the airport from bankruptcy. Firstly, [Porter] bought the terminal buildings from the airport, which improved the airport’s cash flow, and secondly, it signed a long-term, very favourable contract with the airport. Air Canada brought those problems onto itself because it refused to sign a long-term contract,” says D’Cruz, who doesn’t foresee Air Canada’s presence as a major threat to Porter.

Apart from the challenges, the licensed pilot, whose description of flying parallels his business approach, remains an optimistic leader. “It’s actually quite pleasant popping through the cloud and have nothing but sunshine up above.”

To date, Porter has flown over five million passengers in its short history, with more than 200,000 of its passengers originating from Toronto’s 905 area code. This year marks the fifth anniversary for the regional airline, whose number of employees has significantly risen from 200 to 1,300 since its first scheduled flight to Ottawa in 2006. Catering to a monied, corporate crowd, Porter will have attained its 26th fuel-efficient Bombardier turboprop by the end of this year. It is also considering increasing its five U.S. destinations to include Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., and introduce packaged vacations in 2012. The low-cost airline currently travels to 13 major Canadian cities, including Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins – areas that were hard to get to affordably before Porter came along. “I think that defines our success – the fact that we regularly now carry in excess of 200,000 passengers per month, whereas our predecessor, Air Canada, when they were here at this airport in their last 12 months of operating from Toronto City

20 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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LonyMark

Left: Porter Airlines’ consistent focus on quality service includes complimentary snacks and drinks onboard.

Below: The company mascot Mr. Porter is fashioned with pieces and parts of Bombardier aircraft.

9/22/06

12:24 PM

Page 1

CRIMINAL LAW Defending Criminal Charges for 25+ Years 24 Hour Service

Airport, they only carried – now I’m not talking about a month now but in their last 12 months – they only carried about 20,000 passengers. In a single month we are now carrying better than 10 times what they carried in a full year.” Air Canada continues to be the nation’s largest airline, with air transport to over 180 destinations.

Sometimes good things can come in small packages. The compact airline delivers an all-round pleasurable experience for its time-sensitive business travellers, with free bottled water and soft drinks, specialty coffee, muffins and sandwiches in its lounges. Onboard service includes complimentary beer and wine served in glassware as you sit back on leather seats with extra legroom. “It’s a different experience when you come here, maybe it’s a bit shorter for a person to get to [Toronto] Pearson [International Airport], but it’s a much more complicated experience,” relates Deluce. The early days of flying are further evoked with flight attendants fitted in retro outfits and pillbox hats – a look recently emphasized with the explosive popularity of the TV series Pan Am.

Introducing our Latest Development to the World

Deluce acknowledges that a strong business plan and financial backing were key factors to confronting the tumultuous airline industry, as well as adhering to the company foundation blocks of “speed, convenience and service.” His son Michael Deluce is Porter’s chief commercial officer, part of a seasoned management of over 70.

While service and business savvy have contributed immensely to the success of Porter Airlines, Deluce’s origins play an integral role. Deluce recalls his first memory on a plane: sitting on a cushion on a seat next to his father, who would allow him to fly while the plane was in flight. Aviation was in his blood long before earning his wings as a commercial pilot or signing off on corporate deals. “There’s lots of things I’ll never forget about him,” says Deluce of his mentor. “I think that the basic business philosophy in terms of treating individuals the way you would want to be treated yourself – that’s probably something that I can remember him always sort of using as a basic guiding principal in terms of how he dealt with individuals in a fair manner. And I think we try to do that here, too.” www.flyporter.com www.citylifemagazine.ca

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USTIN BIEBER / DAVID ROCCO / HELEN CHING-KIRCHER / THE MICHAËLLE JEAN FOUNDATION ERGE KAPTEGAINE / SILVANA FRAMMARTINO / JACK LAYTON / VIVIAN RISI / EVA KARPATI / RON MAYNARD / FRANCA CARELLA / GILDA’S CLUB / HARBINGER FOUNDATION / ONTARIO TRILLIUM OUNDATION / THE GERRY & NANCY PENCER BRAIN TRUST CENTRE / ED MIRVISH FAMIL HARITABLE FOUNDATION / FRED FOX / FAUJA SINGH / PETER WIXSON / ROBIN SHARMA / NEI ASRICHA / SUSAN HAY / CHARLES PEART / ROB DYER / ARCADE FIRE / BEVERLY THOMSON / GEORG TROUMBOULOPOULOUS / IZZY CAMILLERI / THE TERESA GROUP / SAMANTHA NUTT / GUY LALIBERT JOSEPH MANZOLI / DOMENIC CONDO / EMMANUELLE GATTUSO / HAL JACKMAN FOUNDATION RITTNEY KUCZYNSKI / RBC FOUNDATION / MOE ALAMEDDINE / JANN ARDEN / DIANE DUPUY / ERYN WALTMAN / ALEX JADAD / JEN PLYLER-DANCH / MICHAEL BUBLÉ / CATHY BERTUCCI / LINDA FRUM RICHARD BRAUDO / DONNA TRELLA / REMO FERRI / PHYLLIS NOVAK / HABITAT FOR HUMANIT PHILIP LYALL / RAY ZAHAB / DEGASPERIS FAMILY / CARLO BALDASSARRA / HOSPICE VAUGHAN HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION / HEATHER REISMAN / DRAKE / K’NAAN / LIGHTS / SARAH MCLACHLAN / NELLY FURTADO / DAVID FOSTER / DEEPA MEHTA / JUSTIN BIEBER / DAVID ROCCO HELEN CHING-KIRCHER / THE MICHAËLLE JEAN FOUNDATION / SERGE KAPTEGAINE / SILVAN RAMMARTINO / JACK LAYTON / VIVIAN RISI / EVA KARPATI / RONA MAYNARD / FRANCA CARELLA GILDA’S CLUB / HARBINGER FOUNDATION / ONTARIO TRILLIUM FOUNDATION / THE GERRY & NANC ENCER BRAIN TRUST CENTRE / ED MIRVISH FAMILY CHARITABLE FOUNDATION / FRED FOX / FAUJ INGH / PETER WIXSON / ROBIN SHARMA / NEIL PASRICHA / SUSAN HAY / CHARLES PEART / RO DYER / ARCADE FIRE / BEVERLY THOMSON / GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOUS / IZZY CAMILLERI HE TERESA GROUP / SAMANTHA NUTT / GUY LALIBERTÉ / JOSEPH MANZOLI / DOMENIC CONDO MMANUELLE GATTUSO / HAL JACKMAN FOUNDATION / BRITTNEY KUCZYNSKI / RBC FOUNDATION MOE ALAMEDDINE / JANN ARDEN / DIANE DUPUY / ERYN WALTMAN / ALEX JADAD / JEN PLYLER DANCH / MICHAEL BUBLÉ / CATHY BERTUCCI / LINDA FRUM /RICHARD BRAUDO / DONNA TRELLA EMO FERRI / PHYLLIS NOVAK / HABITAT FOR HUMANITY / PHILIP LYALL / RAY ZAHAB / DEGASPERI AMILY / CARLO BALDASSARRA / HOSPICE VAUGHAN / HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION / HEATHE EISMAN / DRAKE / K’NAAN / LIGHTS / SARAH MCLACHLAN / NELLY FURTADO / DAVID FOSTER DEEPA MEHTA / JUSTIN BIEBER / DAVID ROCCO / HELEN CHING-KIRCHER / THE MICHAËLLE JEAN OUNDATION / SERGE KAPTEGAINE / SILVANA FRAMMARTINO / JACK LAYTON / VIVIAN RISI / EV ARPATI / RONA MAYNARD / FRANCA CARELLA / GILDA’S CLUB / HARBINGER FOUNDATION / ONTARIO RILLIUM FOUNDATION / THE GERRY & NANCY PENCER BRAIN TRUST CENTRE / ED MIRVISH FAMIL HARITABLE FOUNDATION / FRED FOX / FAUJA SINGH / PETER WIXSON / ROBIN SHARMA / NEI ASRICHA / SUSAN HAY / CHARLES PEART / ROB DYER / ARCADE FIRE / BEVERLY THOMSON / GEORG TROUMBOULOPOULOUS / IZZY CAMILLERI / THE TERESA GROUP / SAMANTHA NUTT / GUY LALIBERT THE CHANGE WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD. JOSEPH MANZOLI /BE DOMENIC CONDO YOU / EMMANUELLE GATTUSO / HAL JACKMAN FOUNDATION GANDHI RITTNEY KUCZYNSKI / RBC FOUNDATION /MAHATMA MOE ALAMEDDINE / JANN ARDEN / DIANE DUPUY / ERYN WALTMAN / ALEXThJADAD / JEN / ect MICHAEL / CATHY e end of the yearPLYLER-DANCH often calls on us to refl on our life BUBLÉ and commit to change.BERTUCCI But while / LINDA FRUM RICHARD BRAUDO / DONNA / REMO FERRI PHYLLIS NOVAK HABITAT our trivial promisesTRELLA to eat healthy or become active /may serve personal goals,/there are thoseFOR HUMANIT PHILIP LYALL / RAY ZAHAB / DEGASPERIS FAMILY / CARLO BALDASSARRA / HOSPICE VAUGHAN who look to expending positive change to theREISMAN world around/ them.

Whether or not you/ LIGHTS / SARAH HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION / HEATHER DRAKE / K’NAAN conceive or forget your resolutions, the following list of individuals organizations will / DAVID ROCCO MCLACHLAN / NELLY FURTADO / DAVID FOSTER / DEEPA MEHTAand / JUSTIN BIEBER inspire you toMICHAËLLE do more – to be that change that Gandhi asks all of us.KAPTEGAINE / SILVAN HELEN CHING-KIRCHER / THE JEAN FOUNDATION / of SERGE RAMMARTINO / JACK LAYTON / VIVIAN RISI / EVA KARPATI / RONA MAYNARD / FRANCA CARELLA GILDA’S CLUB / HARBINGER FOUNDATION / ONTARIO TRILLIUM FOUNDATION / THE GERRY & NANC ENCER BRAIN TRUST CENTRE / ED MIRVISH FAMILY CHARITABLE FOUNDATION / FRED FOX / FAUJ INGH / PETER WIXSON / ROBIN SHARMA / NEIL PASRICHA / SUSAN HAY / CHARLES PEART / RO DYER / ARCADE FIRE / BEVERLY THOMSON / GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOUS / IZZY CAMILLERI HE TERESA GROUP / SAMANTHA NUTT / GUY LALIBERTÉ / JOSEPH MANZOLI / DOMENIC CONDO MMANUELLE GATTUSO / HAL JACKMAN FOUNDATION / BRITTNEY KUCZYNSKI / RBC FOUNDATION MOE ALAMEDDINE / JANN ARDEN / DIANE DUPUY / ERYN WALTMAN / ALEX JADAD / JEN PLYLER DANCH / MICHAEL BUBLÉ / CATHY BERTUCCI / LINDA FRUM /RICHARD BRAUDO / DONNA TRELLA EMO FERRI / PHYLLIS NOVAK / HABITAT FOR HUMANITY / PHILIP LYALL / RAY ZAHAB / DEGASPERI AMILY / CARLO BALDASSARRA / HOSPICE VAUGHAN / HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION / HEATHE EISMAN / DRAKE / K’NAAN / LIGHTS / SARAH MCLACHLAN / NELLY FURTADO / DAVID FOSTER DEEPA MEHTA / JUSTIN BIEBER / DAVID ROCCO / HELEN CHING-KIRCHER / THE MICHAËLLE JEAN OUNDATION / SERGE KAPTEGAINE / SILVANA FRAMMARTINO / JACK LAYTON / VIVIAN RISI / EV ARPATI / RONA MAYNARD / FRANCA CARELLA / GILDA’S CLUB / HARBINGER FOUNDATION / ONTARIO RILLIUM FOUNDATION / THE GERRY & NANCY PENCER BRAIN TRUST CENTRE / ED MIRVISH AMILY CHARITABLE FOUNDATION / FRED FOX / FAUJA SINGH / PETER WIXSON / ROBIN SHARM NEIL PASRICHA / SUSAN HAY / CHARLES PEART / ROB DYER / ARCADE FIRE / BEVERLY THOMSON GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOUS / IZZY CAMILLERI / THE TERESA GROUP / SAMANTHA NUTT GUY LALIBERTÉ / JOSEPH MANZOLI / DOMENIC CONDO / EMMANUELLE GATTUSO / HAL JACKMAN OUNDATION / BRITTNEY KUCZYNSKI / RBC FOUNDATION / MOE ALAMEDDINE / JANN ARDEN DIANE DUPUY / ERYN WALTMAN / ALEX JADAD / JEN PLYLER-DANCH / MICHAEL BUBLÉ / CATH ERTUCCI / LINDA FRUM /RICHARD BRAUDO / DONNA TRELLA / REMO FERRI / PHYLLIS NOVAK HABITAT FOR HUMANITY / PHILIP LYALL / RAY ZAHAB / DEGASPERIS FAMILY / CARLO BALDASSARR HOSPICE VAUGHAN / HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION / HEATHER REISMAN / DRAKE / K’NAAN IGHTS / SARAH MCLACHLAN / NELLY FURTADO / DAVID FOSTER / DEEPA MEHTA JUSTIN BIEBER DAVID ROCCO / HELEN CHING-KIRCHER / THE MICHAËLLE JEAN FOUNDATION / SERGE KAPTEGAIN SILVANA FRAMMARTINO / JACK LAYTON / VIVIAN RISI / EVA KARPATI / RONA MAYNARD / FRANC ARELLA / GILDA’S CLUB / HARBINGER FOUNDATION / ONTARIO TRILLIUM FOUNDATION / TH

1. ROBIN SHARMA Authoring 11 bestsellers and the founder of Sharma Leadership International Inc., Robin Sharma delivers inspiring and motivational talks to rooms filled with employees from Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft and Nike.

2. MOE ALAMEDDINE O.Noir is among unique dining experiences in the world: patrons eat their entire meal in the dark. Owner Moe Alameddine feels dining in the dark allows customers to appreciate both their food and their sight even more. Fitting, as Alameddine’s entire staff is blind.

3. NELLY FURTADO

“I feel like a student of life,” said Nelly Furtado during a recent on-stage appearance at the We Day Toronto event. The Canadian songstress excitedly announced how inspired she was after a visit to Kenya, and how her $1 million donation to international charity Free the Children would help fund two novel programs and a boarding school for girls in Africa. Free the Children co-founder Craig Kielburger applauds her work. “Nelly is a very passionate, authentic, kind-hearted person that wears her heart on her sleeve … We value Nelly as an ambassador to the organization, and are looking forward to working with her to continue to empower youth around the world.”

4. GILDA’S CLUB Those touched by cancer know the turmoil it causes. Gilda’s Club provides a social community for those with cancer in their lives, bringing a range of people together to help alleviate emotional burden and build support.

5. DIANE DUPUY

8. REMO FERRI

Diane Dupuy is the founder and president of the Famous People Players, a theatre troupe that uses puppetry to pay homage to celebrated artists. Her production employs individuals who are developmentally challenged, believing everyone can and should contribute to society. Dupuy has been appointed to the Order of Canada for her work.

6. EVA KARPATI Eva Karapti knows a good story when she hears it. Th e Toronto resident created and founded Good News Toronto: Our Everyday Heroes, to celebrate inspirational community individuals and the city’s vibrancy. She writes on her website that her publication “encourages us to look at our neighbours as heroes rather than villains, and to treat each other with respect and understanding.”

“WE ARE WHAT WE REPEATEDLY DO. EXCELLENCE, THEN, IS NOT AN ACT, BUT A HABIT.” – ARISTOTLE 7. DAVID ROCCO

The David Rocco’s Dolce Vita star serves his dishes with a side of philanthropy.

He recently joined celebrity foodies at the charity cook-off Chef ’s Challenge in support of Mount Sinai Hospital, but not before hosting Brunch for a Cure, an event raising funds for the Toronto hospital’s breast and ovarian cancer research department.

24 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

Remo Ferri of Ferrari Maserati of Ontario has helped to raise close to $2 million with his Annual Rally in support of the SickKids Foundation.

9. PHYLLIS NOVAK Phyllis Novak founded the Toronto art studio Sketch 15 years ago because she felt homeless youth needed more than just food and shelter. For Novak, creative expression not only includes homeless youth in the artistic community, but also boosts self-esteem and a desire to develop.

10. SARAH MCLACHLAN Raising her voice in the name of philanthropy, Grammy award-winning Sarah McLachlan was conferred an honorary degree of doctor of fine arts by Simon Fraser University this year. In 2003, she founded The Sarah McLachlan Music Outreach Program, which enables inner city youth in Vancouver access to free music classes.

Over the years, she has participated in benefit concerts and a telethon to raise funds for AIDS sufferers, women’s charities and tsunami relief efforts in Southeast Asia.

11. PETER WIXSON Even in our more prosperous country, poverty is still present. Peter Wixson has been involved with the Vaughan Food Bank for over two decades, and its executive director for 16. His dedication to feeding those in need recently garnished him with the City’s Ward Civic Hero Award. www.citylifemagazine.ca

REVIVING 5,000 YEARS OF CIVILIZATION

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FOR 5,000 YEARS in China, culture was heralded as a divine gift. Its glory was long the inspiration of countless artists and poets, until this heritage was nearly lost…

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Discover the glory of a fantastically rich culture, that of classical China, brought to life through brilliantly choreographed dance and mesmerizing, all original orchestral compositions. Magnificently costumed dancers—the world’s elite— move in poetic arrangements that evoke pastoral beauty, imperial drama, and the glory of an ancient civilization. This season, discover what art was meant to be.

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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12. DAVID FOSTER

Committed to supporting Canadian families with financial support, the eponymous David Foster Foundation sheds awareness on a medical crisis that has more than 4,000 people in Canada awaiting life-saving organ transplants.

In Ontario alone, someone on a waiting list for a vital organ dies every 72 hours. The legendary producer has also participated in Celebrity Fight Night to benefit Muhammad Ali’s Parkison Center, and Andre Agassi’s Grand Slam for Children.

13. ONTARIO TRILLIUM FOUNDATION Since 1982, the Ontario Trillium Foundation has been working with volunteers from across Ontario to build and improve the communities they inhabit. Providing roughly 1,500 grants annually, this not-for-profit has provided the financial backing that allows communities to flourish.

15. RICHARD BRAUDO Enduring 50 major depressions, Richard Braudo focuses on the willingness to be willing to pursue life to the fullest. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) volunteer is a spokesman of brain disease, giving motivational talks that help to better understand illnesses that are often plagued with stigma.

With inspiring words, Braudo extends hope. “If you just allow yourself to keep breathing through it all, whatever your circumstances, you too can find a way to stable wellness.”

“HAPPY ARE THOSE WHO DREAM DREAMS AND ARE READY TO PAY THE PRICE TO MAKE THEM COME TRUE.” – LEON J. SUENES

16. FRANCA CARELLA

14. JACK LAYTON

There’s a reason why his name was repeatedly mentioned at The Good Neighbours’ Club’s annual day for the homeless this past summer. Whether he was fighting for Canada’s seniors, the sick and the destitute, his voice continues to be heard for those who can’t speak for themselves.

When all hope is lost, there is Franca Carella. The local woman is a champion of compassion, having founded a nonprofit organization that has helped to rebuild the lives of individuals and families shattered by substance abuse since 1987. Over 15,000 people have walked through the doors of the Vitanova Foundation in Vaughan, and Carella, who bestows the rare quality of turning sorrow into happiness, has welcomed all with open arms.

26 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

17. HOSPICE VAUGHAN Both an organization and a philosophy, Hospice Vaughan provides counselling and support to families faced with fatal illness and loss. Its work has helped many handle heartache and cope with grief; giving hope and meaning to lives afflicted by tragedy.

18. ARCADE FIRE

Arcade Fire’s ethereal, Grammywinning sound not only demonstrates the power of Canadian artists, but that honesty and heart overrides today’s commercial world. The band pledged $1 million to charity after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.

19. ALEX JADAD A senior scientist and physician at the University Health Network, Dr. Alex Jadad travelled the world, visiting 94 countries to create a global conversation on what kind of healthcare people need, as opposed to what the system delivers.

His resulting Staircase of Support is meant to create a health-care system that builds stronger communal support and extends beyond the hospital. Dr. Jadad is the chief innovator and founder of Centre for Global eHealth Innovation at the University of Toronto.

20. EMMANUELLE GATTUSO In May 2009, Emmanuelle Gattuso, with the support of husband Allan Slaight, gave an exceptionally generous gift to The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation. Donating $12.5 million spread out over several years, the pair continues to donate by matching every dollar raised for The Gattuso Rapid Diagnostic Centre. www.citylifemagazine.ca

www.citylifemagazine.ca

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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21. CARLO BALDASSARRA Owner of Greenpark Homes, Canada’s largest home building company, Carlo Baldassarra has built an empire over the 44 years it’s been in operation.

But Baldassarra is also a man of the community, donating millions to local causes, including $1 million to the Markham Stouffville Hospital.

22. HEATHER REISMAN After merging her company, Indigo Books and Music, with Chapters in 2001, Heather Reisman formed the largest book retailer in Canada. In 2010, she started an online petition to save Sakineh Ashtiani, an Iranian woman, from being stoned to death.

23. HARBINGER FOUNDATION Active in Toronto since 1995, Harbinger Foundation strives to fund registered Canadian charities that help improve the quality of life on the global stage.

Its work has brought access to clean water in poverty-stricken areas around the world.

24. K’NAAN

Best known for his celebratory hit Wavin’ Flag, Somali-Canadian rapper K’Naan became an ambassador of hope to the Horn of Africa Crisis this year, rallying support and giving voice to millions of residents living in Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia and Tanzania as they fight to survive the worst drought in 60 years. The humanitarian-activist, whose thought-provoking lyrics bring world issues to the forefront, also took part in the charity concert Hope Rising!, which benefits the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

25. SUSAN HAY

Not only has Susan Hay’s sunny smile brought both weather and news to Global Television’s audience, but her charitable work has also brought shelter from the storm. She’s the spokesperson for organizations that include Toronto’s Ronald McDonald House, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada, and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario.

26. CATHY BERTUCCI Elementary school teacher Cathy Bertucci improves her Grade 5 class at Our Lady of Family Catholic School with an innovative approach that has been featured in Natural Curiosity: Building Children’s Understanding of the World Through Environmental Inquiry, which is available in school libraries across Ontario.

27. MICHAEL BUBLÉ

The cool, classic crooning of Michael Bublé has charmed audiences the world over, catapulting him to the pinnacle of pop music stardom. He’s sold over 30 million albums, won three Grammy Awards and numerous Junos.

28. ERYN WALTMAN Using his renowned choreography talents, Eryn Waltman synchronized his dance company, Conteur, with the charity Three To Be and So You Think You Can Dance Canada alumni for the State of Mind event, raising money for research on children’s neurological disorders.

28 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

29. THE GERRY & NANCY PENCER BRAIN TRUST CENTRE As one of North America’s leading brain tumour facilities, The Gerry & Nancy Pence Brain Trust Centre provides the resources, support and treatment those suffering with a brain tumour need. Its groundbreaking research and innovative programs have drawn the attention of hospitals the world over.

“SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP OTHERS. UNSUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS ASKING, “WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?” – BRIAN TRACY

30. GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOUS An icon of Canadian television and host of George Stroumboulopoulous Tonight, his edgy yet light-hearted nature and critical eye has made him a favourite of audiences young and old.

He’s won numerous Geminis, including best host three times, and is heavily involved in charitable endeavours and environmental campaigns.

31. DEEPA MEHTA Her directorial dexterity has filled our film reels with powerful moments and moving cultural stories – sweeping accounts that have received industry and critical praise throughout her career. As of late, the Indian-born Canadian director of films such as Oscar-nominated Water (2005) and Midnight’s Children (2012) has received a Lifetime achievement award from the Canadian Centre for Diversity, which gives Canadian youth a platform to move beyond stereotypes and lead positive social change. www.citylifemagazine.ca

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32. JUSTIN BIEBER

Teen heartthrob Justin Bieber has heart. He recently launched Believe Charity Drive, which directly benefits the Make-a-Wish Foundation, City of Hope, Boys and Girls Clubs, and more. Proceeds from every purchase of his holiday album Under the Mistletoe will go towards Believe. The Canadian music export has also auctioned off his pet baby boa constrictor to raise funds for non-profit organization Pencils of Promise, a leader in global education space.

33. RAY ZAHAB Once a-pack-a-day smoker, Ray Zahab transformed his life, becoming an ultramarathon runner and adventurer. His epic journeys have taken him across the Sahara Desert on foot in 111 days, in an effort to raise awareness on Africa’s water crisis.

34. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY For over 25 years, this organization has built or repaired over 500,000 homes for more than 2 million people across the globe.

35. JANN ARDEN

36. HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION Childhood obesity has become a prominent issue in society. In response, the Heart & Stroke Foundation launched Spark Together For Healthy Kids. Its mission is to fund local communal groups that foster physical activity and provide access to nutritious food for children.

37. FAUJA SINGH

Donna Trella was brought to tears while being recognized on stage at the 25th annual Crystal Ball fundraiser in November. As founder of Reach for the Rainbow, Trella has been giving disabled youth, like her inspiring daughter Dove, an opportunity to be involved in summer camp programs.

41. HELEN CHINGKIRCHER

This past October at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, the 100-yearold Fauja Singh proved age isn’t a factor when he became the oldest person to ever complete a marathon. The overeight-hour run exemplified his refusal to never give up.

“IF YOUR ACTIONS INSPIRE OTHERS TO DREAM MORE, LEARN MORE, DO MORE AND BECOME MORE, YOU ARE A LEADER. ” – JOHN QUINCY ADAMS 38. NEIL PASRICHA With so much unrest in the world, we sometimes forget to look for those little joys. Neil Pasricha’s The Book of Awesome, and follow-up The Book of (Holiday) Awesome, asks readers to stop, smell the roses, and remember how awesome that is.

39. CHARLES PEART

Her career has nearly spanned two decades, producing 17 top 10 singles, winning eight Juno awards and receiving a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame.

Jann Arden is a Canadian music icon.

40. DONNA TRELLA

Charles Peart was born without arms – a debilitation that would undoubtedly leave many stifled. But Peart’s drive is unyielding. He trained rigorously throughout his life, and refused to quit – even in the face of diversity. Today, Peart is a martial arts master, role model and testament of the human spirit.

30 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

Downtown Fine Cars Inc. CEO Helen Ching-Kircher drives right into the heart of what matters. Her proven entrepreneurial feats in a male-driven industry are just pit stops on her road to success, as she avidly supports organizations such as Ontario’s Trillium Foundation, Ronald McDonald House and Mount Sinai Hospital. She may live in the fast lane, but slows down for those in need.

42. JEN PLYLERDANCH When women endure physical violence and abuse, their world falls apart. Jen Plyler-Danch refused to sit by and let survivors be victims. She coordinated the Shape Your Life boxing program to heal body and mind, improve selfesteem and build confidence in a safe environment.

43. RBC FOUNDATION In 2010, RBC invested nearly $57 million to various charities in hundreds of communities around the globe.

Focusing on six key areas: education, health and wellness; social services, civic, environment and arts and culture, the RBC provides the financial backing that important organizations need to operate. www.citylifemagazine.ca

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44. SAMANTHA NUTT

48. DRAKE

War Child Canada has been working to increase education, decrease poverty and build protective environments for children in war-torn regions for over 15 years. It all started when Samantha Nutt saw first-hand the horrific conditions war created. Ever since, it has been her passion to alleviate this suffering.

Photo By James Pattyn

45. RONA MAYNARD

The former editor of Chatelaine magazine and author of My Mother’s Daughter (McLelland & Stewart Ltd., 2007), Rona Maynard tickles the soul as much as the heart. Her female readers resonate with her heartwarming stories, which have blossomed into an online community of women who, as Maynard, share private, beautiful moments of their lives on her website.

Rapper-singer-songwriter Drake was awarded with the Allan Slaight award for his noteworthy impact in the fields of music, literature, film, visual or performing arts, innovation, sports or philanthropy at this year’s Canada’s Walk of Fame Awards. The accolade included a $10,000 honorarium, which Drake dutifully donated to Dixon Hall, a social service agency that provides community support on multiple levels. “He’s an inspiring example to all,” said Canada’s Walk of Fame founding director Peter Soumalias in a press release. The charttopper has also raised awareness for Jake’s House for Autism, the MS Society of Canada, Friends of Music Therapy at SickKids and someonelikeme.ca.

49. VIVIAN RISI

46. FRED FOX Picking up the torch his brother so courageously carried, Fred Fox, the director of the Terry Fox Foundation, keeps Terry’s message burning by speaking at schools and communities across the country. He believes it’s the power of volunteers that have kept Terry’s dream alive, and why over $550,000 has been raised in his brother’s name.

47. ROB DYER Losing his mother, grandmothers and best friend to cancer, Rob Dyer had much loss to grieve. But he refused to be swallowed by sorrow. He started Skate4Cancer, a journey that would see him skateboard from Los Angeles to Toronto to raise awareness and proceeds, and bring hope to skaters the world over.

51. HAL JACKMAN FOUNDATION Art is an essential part of society – a maxim the Hal Jackman Foundation holds on to wholeheartedly. Over the past 20 years, this organization has bestowed more than $13 million to over 200 artistic groups and institutions in Toronto, providing support for expression and creativity.

52. BEVERLY THOMSON

Journalist and co-host of CTV’s Canada AM, Beverley Thomson is extremely active with Canadian charities. She’s the honourary chair and spokesperson for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, and the honourary chair for the York Central Hospital Foundation.

In 2006, Thomson received the Gemini Humanitarian Award for her efforts.

53. BRITTNEY KUCZYNSKI

Through conviction and hard work, one can scale great heights. Over the last 30 years, local real estate broker and industry innovator Vivian Risi has become an expert in market trends, mortgages and real estate. She is a broker of record and the founder of Royal Le Page – Your Community, which has 11 offices across southern Ontario and 815 realtors.

50. GUY LALIBERTÉ Humans can’t live without water. Many, however, struggle daily to find this invaluable resource. Thankfully, there are organizations like One Drop – an initiative of Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté – to help. One Drop has worked in regions like El Salvador, Haiti and India to ensure more people have access to clean, drinkable water.

32 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

At the young age of 19, Brittney Kuczynski felt too many children around the world were lacking adequate healthcare. She began the prestigious Oceana Ball to raise money for the Herbie Fund, which in turn pays for various children across the world to receive essential medical treatment from Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children.

54. DOMENIC CONDO Although legally blind, Domenic Condo has never let his lack of vision slow him down. He works with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, raising awareness and support for others with impaired vision. He also captains Soundwerx, a highly successful recording studio where artists like Nelly Furtado and Finger 11 have recorded songs. www.citylifemagazine.ca

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55. SILVANA FRAMMARTINO Local award-winning photographer Silvana Frammartino sees the world differently. Her vision of society is one where everyone is equal and homelessness and poverty don’t exist.

Frammartino goes beyond capturing these issues with her camera, creating events like the Toronto Homeless Drive, where she prepares and delivers meal bags to those in need.

56. ED MIRVISH FAMILY CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

The founder and owner of Honest Ed’s in Toronto, Ed Mirvish was a businessman known for his philanthropist efforts and revitalization of Toronto’s dwindling theatre scene. This charitable foundation honours his memory by supporting the performing arts, and various Jewish organizations.

59. SERGE KAPTEGAINE Serge Kaptegaine has an intimate understanding of the daily atrocities that take place in his native land of DR Congo, where millions have being killed over a mineral-fuelled war. In 2005, he found refuge in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where he established two not-for-profit organizations: Hand in Hand for Peace, which educates Canadians about the conflict in DR Congo, and the Canadian Centre for Refugee Employment, Inc., which aids in the reintegration process of newcomers.

60. DEGASPERIS FAMILY The DeGasperis family has been in the construction and home developing business for decades.

Michael DeGasperis, founder of Arista Homes, has been dedicated to giving back, sitting as the chair of the Vaughan Health Campus for Care and as director of the Vaughan Health Care Foundation.

61. LIGHTS

57. JOSEPH MANZOLI President of Colourfast Custom Coating Ltd., Joseph Manzoli has been involved in numerous charitable endeavours, chairing or co-chairing many over the years. One of his more notable initiatives includes the Ride for SickKids, which combines his love for motorcycles and desire to give back.

58. IZZY CAMILLERI When renowned fashion designer Izzy Camilleri was asked to create a coat for The Toronto Star journalist Barbara Turnbull, a quadriplegic, she didn’t realize just how different her needs were. Through this experience, Camilleri opened IZ Adaptive, a boutique carrying the IZ Collection: the world’s first line of adaptable clothing for her “seated” clientele.

62. LINDA FRUM

Representing the province of Ontario, Senator Linda Frum has a vast portfolio of volunteer work. The former vice chair of the Board of Upper Canada College and recipient of the Golda Meir Leadership award will soon join The Sandbox Project, an organization that promotes childhood health and safety. Past positions include honourary chair of Zareinu, a school for physically and mentally challenged children, and board member on the Canada-Israel Committee.

63. THE MICHAËLLE JEAN FOUNDATION Youth-focused programs encourage Canadians to become agents of change by way of creative expression. The Foundation is co-chaired by former governor general Michaëlle Jean, UNESCO’s special envoy for Haiti, who will become the chancellor of the University of Ottawa on Feb. 1, 2012.

64. THE TERESA GROUP

The success of her new album Siberia may be adding new followers to her digital realm, but it’s the real world that hits home for electric pop singer Lights Poxleitner. Earlier this year, the 24-year-old, along with radio host Jian Ghomesi, travelled with World Vision Canada to the Philippines, where she spent time laughing and singing with school children in the area. Her World Vision “30-Hour Famine” video, which encourages people to overcome hunger and help save lives, has thus far received close to 12,000 hits on YouTube.

36 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

The Teresa Group has been providing services to hundreds of children and families affected by HIV and AIDS since 1990. For the past 14 years, they have been hosting the Mane Event Fundraiser, joining salons from around Toronto in support of this noble cause.

65. PHILIP LYALL Philip Lyall is a filmmaker from Vancouver who co-directed and produced the documentary 65_RedRoses. The film, which follows Eva Markvoort and her day-to-day battle with cystic fibrosis, sheds light on the struggle of combating the deadly disease. www.citylifemagazine.ca

www.citylifemagazine.ca

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

37

60 Great Life tips for a

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ltimately, life goes by in a blink. And too many people live the same year 80 times. To avoid getting to the end and feeling flooded regret over a live half-lived, read (and then apply) these tips.”

– Robin Sharma

01. Exercise daily.

02. Get serious about gratitude.

03. See your work as a craft.

04. Expect the best and prepare for the worst.

05. Keep a journal.

06. Read The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin.

07. Plan a schedule for your week.

08. Know the 5 highest priorities of your life.

09. Say no to distractions.

10. Drink a lot of water.

11. Improve your work every single day.

12. Get a mentor.

13. Hire a coach.

14. Get up at 5 a.m. each day.

15. Eat less food.

16. Find more heroes.

17. Be a hero to someone.

18. Smile at strangers.

19. Be the most ethical person you know.

20. Don’t settle for anything less than excellence.

21. Savour life’s simplest pleasures.

22. Save 10% of your income each month.

23. Spend time at art galleries.

24. Walk in the woods.

25. Write thank-you letters to those who’ve helped you.

26. Forgive those who’ve wronged you.

27. Remember that leadership is about influence and impact, not title and accolades.

28. Create unforgettable moments with those you love.

29. Have 5 great friends.

30. Become stunningly polite.

31. Unplug your TV. 32. Sell your TV. 33. Read daily.

34. Avoid the news.

35. Be content with what you have.

36. Pursue your dreams.

37. Be authentic.

38. Be passionate.

39. Say sorry when you know you should.

40. Never miss a moment to celebrate another.

41. Have a vision for your life.

42. Know your strengths.

43. Focus your mind on the good versus the lack.

44. Be patient.

45. Don’t give up.

46. Clean up your messes.

47. Use impeccable words.

48. Travel more.

49. Read “As You Think”.

50. Honour your parents.

51. Tip taxi drivers well.

52. Be a great teammate.

53. Give no energy to critics.

54. Spend time in the mountains.

55. Know your top 5 values.

56. Shift from being busy to achieving results.

57. Innovate and iterate.

58. Speak less. Listen more.

59. Be the best person you know.

60. Make your life matter.

Robin Sharma is the author of the #1 international bestseller The Leader Who Had No Title (Simon & Schuster). www.robinsharma.com

38 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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PROFESSIONAL HEALTH GUIDE

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Science and art create a natural look at the AgeLess Clinic.

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odern cosmetic plastic surgery isn’t just nips and tucks. It takes the creative eye of an artisan to deliver that desired, untreated look. With over 20 years of experience, Joyce M. Palmer, owner and director of the AgeLess Clinic, explains that, “To achieve results that are really natural looking, the plastic surgeon has to be both technically and artistically skilled.”

Medical director of the AgeLess Clinic is Dr. Marc DuPéré, a board certified cosmetic plastic surgeon. He brings superb specialized skills and that creative talent to the AgeLess Clinic, which is essential for natural results. “He is considered an elite plastic surgeon,” says Palmer, noting that Dr. DuPéré’s accolades include graduating as a gold medalist from the McGill School

of Medicine, certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and mentored by top European plastic surgeons.

The AgeLess Clinic is the only clinic in York Region to have five hospitalgrade lasers to ensure the appropriate and safest technology.

All surgery is conducted in a fully accredited (CAAAF) private surgical facility. Surgical clients are given both Dr. DuPéré and Palmer’s cellphone numbers for round-the-c lock post-surgery care.

Dr. DuPéré performs all wrinkle treatments and dermal filler procedures personally, and is often called upon to train other physicians because of his expertise.

Dr. Marc DuPéré, Visage and AgeLess Clinics.

“We’re very friendly and we’re very attentive,” says Palmer. Our main goal is getting optimal results for our patients, along with their personal comfort and safety. Nothing is done halfway here.” www.visageclinic.com www.agelessclinic.ca (Toronto) (York Region) 416-929-9800 905-773-9675 179 John St., Toronto 13311 Yonge Street, Suite 114, Richmond Hill

THAT HOLLYWOOD SMILE

T

he impact of a great fi rst impression is undisputable, and there’s no better leadin than a striking smile. Veneers are a great solution for those who, like many celebrities, love to flash those picturesque pearly whites. But the traditional means of applying veneers is both time-consuming and uncomfortable. Thankfully, The Accolade Dental Centre’s equipment eliminates the stress, giving you plenty to grin about.

In the past, having veneers made wasn’t the most pleasant process. “A lot of people really dislike having an impression done,” explains Dr. Jack Slome. “It’s gooey, it makes them gag, it doesn’t taste too great – it’s just not a comfortable experience.” Patients would then need to wait a couple weeks before the veneer was finalized

and ready to be cemented on. “The whole process was really a hassle,” Dr. Slome adds.

Using The Accolade Dental Centre’s advanced CEREC machine, veneers are created and applied effortlessly within a single session. A digital photo of the teeth is taken, it’s customized via a computer and the porcelain veneer is quickly milled in-house. “Patients love the convenience of it. This process if far more comfortable, it’s quicker and the quality is as good, if not better, than the traditional way.”

This streamlined process is brief, relaxed and leaves patients beaming. If you’re hungry for that coveted Hollywood smile, The Accolade Dental Centre will have you smiling from ear to ear. www.accoladedental.com 416-928-6828

42 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

Dr. Jack Slome of The Accolade Dental.

www.citylifemagazine.ca

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PROFESSIONAL HEALTH GUIDE

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

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hen you smile, do it with confidence! From the moment you step into Norton Dental Centre, you’ll be treated with the utmost care. A general dental practice offering everything from dental cleanings, single unit dental implants and All-on-4 implant restorations, all treatment plans are customized to fit individual needs and expectations.

Beaming with the smile you’ve always wanted becomes reality with the dentists at Norton Dental.

With many years of experience, Dr. Anca Bordeianu brings out beautiful smiles in all her patients. She performs all aspects of general dentistry, including traditional orthodontics and Invisalign, the clear alternative

to braces. For those requiring oral surgery and implant dentistry, Dr. Ammar Taimish carries out wisdom teeth extractions under IV sedation, as well as implants to replace a single tooth or full arch. Procedures are quick and comfortable, the results esthetically pleasing.

Norton Dental’s personable dentistry team also offers service in Arabic, Romanian and Italian to make patients feel at ease. For general and cosmetic dentistry for the whole family, look no further than Norton Dental. Call to schedule your complimentary consultation today. www.nortondental.ca 905-832-8181

The interiors of Norton Dental Centre.

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great smile affects others’ attitudes towards you and can also shape self-esteem.

In the past, some adults shied away from orthodontic work, but braces aren’t just for kids anymore. In fact, teeth can be predictably moved at any age, and today’s esthetic orthodontic procedures can do so in subtle ways.

for straighter teeth. Clear choices, such as Invisalign and behind-theteeth braces, are much less visible than traditional metal types, but provide the same results. “We treat a lot of patients with Invisalign” says Dr. Davis. “Everyone loves how unobtrusive they are, and the results are amazing.”

“Today, getting braces is less time-consuming, more comfortable and less visible,” says Dr. Kevin Davis of Davis Orthodontics.“Now you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.”

Technological advancements have also made orthodontics a more enjoyable experience. Patients at Davis Orthodontics only need to come in once every two months, and most require 5 –15 visits in total.

SureSmile, a robotically engineered system of braces, can also decrease treatment times by 25 – 50 per cent.

Davis Orthodontics offers inconspicuous yet effective options

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Dr. Kevin Davis of Davis Orthodontics.

If you’re uncomfortable with your teeth, visit Davis Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation and find out how you can help boost your health and your confidence. www.davisortho.ca 905-884-7550 (Richmond Hill) 905-856-9200 (Woodbridge) 905-898-4848 (Newmarket) City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

43

PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY GUIDE Suzie Swica, The Laser Generation’s owner and director of clinical services.

SPECIAL ADVE RTISI NG FEATU R E

THE LASER GENERATION Innovative anti-aging clinic The Laser Generation gets you glowing with a celebrity star treatment.

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This facial gives you plump, glowing skin and it promotes collagen synthesis for a flawless complexion.

– Suzie Swica

’’

Chrysalis Skin Renu founder Michele A. Gambino.

he Laser Generation lets you in on the world of celebrity with a coveted star secret that will leave your skin red-carpet-ready after just one visit. Touted as a leading skin-perfecting treatment by celebrities Madonna to Justin Timberlake, the Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Infusion facial dramatically transforms your skin by plumping away fine lines and boosting your complexion with dewy, youthful radiance. Your skin is gently pampered with a blend of therapeutic-grade oxygen and a cocktail of antioxidants for a relaxing experience free from the discomfort of injectable fillers.

The treatment’s star component

A NEW YEAR, A NEW YOU Come out of your shell with Chrysalis Skin Renu.

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To help others feel better about themselves is a big key in this industry.

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is hyaluronic acid – our skin’s natural filler that depletes as we age. “This facial gives you plump, glowing skin and it promotes collagen synthesis for a flawless complexion,” explains Suzie Swica, The Laser Generation’s owner and director of clinical services. She recommends a course kit, which includes six facials and three take-home products, to enjoy lasting results. This affordable and attainable secret to the stars is also available for problematic skin, with the Intraceuticals Clarity Infusion facial becoming the first to address acneic and aging skin simultaneously. www.thelasergeneration.com 905-264-7160

hrysalis Skin Renu Medical Clinic helps its clients shed their layers to reveal a revitalized glow. “When you have someone that feels good about him or herself, and exudes that confidence and aura, it just feeds you to keep going,” says founder Michele A. Gambino, who has a background in natural medicine and nutrition. Her expansive Vaughan facility, which focuses on advanced laser treatments, also consists of a weight loss clinic with women’s circuit training.

Chrysalis Skin Renu uses the industry’s most innovative technologies, as seen on The Dr. Oz Show, such as the new VelaShape II, which helps tighten

44 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

and tone skin, and elōs, which is used for a range of procedures, including skin rejuvenation and permanent hair removal for grey, blond and red hair. Chrysalis Skin Renu also offers advanced European hyaluronic dermal fillers Fortelis and Modelis, which produce similar results to a facelift without the downtime. The clinic is now offering a new bridal registry designed to improve the confidence of mature bridesto-be, and no-interest finance plans. “To help others feel better about themselves is a big key in this industry; it’s all about that positive energy,” says Gambino. www.skinrenu.ca 905-856-6767 www.citylifemagazine.ca

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the snow begins to fall, blanketing the city in fluffy white powder, those holiday socials will certainly start to cover your calendar. Like the sparkling ornaments wrapping your tree, accentuate your smoky holiday eyes with voluminous eyelash extensions from BodyBare Laser, Skin and Wellness Clinic, and leave partygoers blinking in awe.

Renowned for its anti-aging skin-care and wellness treatments, BodyBare is gearing up for its Holiday Glam Event, and with it, unveiling its new eyelash extensions, Xtreme Lashes. “We offer a trio of services that highlight your best features,” says owner Dina Martins, a certified medical esthetician and

professional makeup artist. “From holiday mineral makeup applications to high-definition brows and our newest addition, luscious lash extensions, it’s all about minimum fuss, but with maximum wow factor.”

BodyBare’s superior quality lash extensions are natural-looking, comfortable and long lasting. Skillfully applied by qualified Xtreme Lash professionals, it’s the perfect accessory for the everyday woman.

On for a limited time, BodyBare’s Holiday Glam Event offers customers a full set of Xtreme Lashes at 30 per cent off, plus a High Definition Brow treatment at no extra charge. As well,

‘‘

BodyBare owner Dina Martins.

Xtreme Lashes are minimum fuss but with maximum WOW factor!

’’

receive a free HauteBox lip gloss with every holiday makeup application at BodyBare. www.bodybarelaser.ca 905-553-0022

SALON POISE

Grace yourself in the triple-threat experience of Vaughan’s latest beauty haven.

W

hen a woman carries herself with confidence, a special elegance trails behind her. And it’s this individual grace that is captured after every visit to Salon Poise. Spoiling guests from head to toe, the newly opened Salon Poise is a culmination of the passion and expertise of locally recognized and trusted colour expert Sandra Cesarone, esthetician Diana Ciampa-La Rosa and stylist Melanie Graham.

Together, the trio delivers a triple-threat experience that has clients beaming with beautiful shiny hair styled to perfection, sexy skin and polished nails.

“Beauty is carrying yourself in a positive and confident way, and we want you to walk out the door with your head held high,” says founder Cesarone, a recipient of Makeover Stylist of the Year at the North American Hairstyling Awards. The beauty experts of Salon Poise offer the latest in hair colour and style, bridal makeup and updos, natural-looking hair extensions, eyelash extensions, manicures, pedicures, and more. “Clients love our organic and anti-aging spray tan, permanent

Melanie Graham, Sandra Cesarone and Diana Ciampa-La Rosa of Salon Poise.

hair removal system and professional treatments using the awardwinning skin care line PCA Skin,” says Ciampa-La Rosa. With over three decades of combined experience, the Salon Poise team will have you walking away looking and feeling your best.

830 Rowntree Dairy Road, Unit 16. Woodbrige, Ont. 289-371-3268

www.citylifemagazine.ca

New clients receive 20% off for the month of January

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

45

RUN-A-WAY WITH ME Written By Madeline Stephenson

▼ Klaxon Howl’s Queen Street West shop has managed to achieve commercial success while maintaining its Canadian roots with vintage and military menswear pieces. www.klaxonhowl.com

CANADA’S HOTTEST DESIGNERS DEBUT THEIR SIZZLING SPRING/SUMMER 2012 COLLECTIONS AT TORONTO’S LG FASHION WEEK. ◀ Inspired by New York City’s club culture, Sid Neigum shows a dark, avant-garde collection this SS12 season. www.sidneigum.com

� Proving that home décor and haute couture go hand-in-hand, Korhani shows off a Canadian Made Innovation SS12 indoor rug in Rabbit print. www.korhani.com

Photo By George Pimentel

City Life: What is it about 1962 French Riviera that set the inspirational backdrop for your SS12 collection?

Kimberley Newport-Mimran: I love the fashion during this period – effortless chic. A-line shift dresses, lots of white and cream.

CL: You’ve said “sexy is what you don’t see.” Can you elaborate?

KNM: I design so there is something left to the imagination. My design philosophy is a woman should wear her clothes – they shouldn’t wear her. Clothes should not be a distraction.

CL: It’s difficult for Canadian designers to break into their own market, let alone the high-end U.S. segment like you have – what has been the key to your success?

KNM: Perseverance.

CL: What is your favourite fabric to work with right now?

KNM: I love power stretch, an incredibly resilient knit, and silk wool is an amazing vehicle for colour saturation.

� Pink Tartan’s slim-cut trouser will take you through the spring and summer season in style. While this rouge palate impresses, you can strut these staple pants in a variety of hues. www.pinktartan.com

CitylifeTV.ca gets behind the scenes to deliver the scoop on the latest must-haves, places to see and events not to miss – all for you to view in crisp, clear HD. An innovative medium designed for the new age viewer. www.citylifetv.ca

Korhani continues to sweep us off of ou ourr feet with its innovative rug runway unway unw a ay fashion show. Model is wearing riing n Ko Korhani’s SS12 reversible outdoor patio rug in China Flower print. www.korhani.com

46 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

www.citylifemagazine.ca

Photography By JC Photography and Co. except for model in red outfit.

Q&A with Pink Tartan designer Kimberley Newport-Mimran

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H diS

i a L o Y

W H S Li T Produced By Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Written By Michael Hill

Sweet Lady Manpreet

B

ells are ringing, lights are glowing and the snow is falling – the holiday season is upon us once again.

As the city transforms into a winter wonderland, filling your heart with that holiday cheer, it’s also time to dive into those crowded malls in search of smile-inducing gifts.

Call in your order for Cakes, Cookies, Cupcakes, Macaroons & just about anything I can bake with my .

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No doubt you’ve probably already embarked on several of these adventures, crossing friends and family members off your list; but there always seems to be that one person you can’t find the right gift for – that finicky friend or special someone who needs the perfect present.

Finding those final gifts can be a challenge, but not to worry.

We’ve explored the city to put together our yearly Holiday Wish List to help you wrap your way through the Holidays!

You’ll find gifts for everyone in your life, from the outdoor adventurer and trendy fashionista, to the wired techie and home decorator. Oh, and you might find one or two surprises you hadn’t thought of. Happy Holidays!

48 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

H diS

oLi aY

W H S Li T

▼ Cute, cuddly, hand-knitted and made for custom order. (www.etsy.com/shop/GregoryPatrick, prices vary)

▲ Record your off-road adventures in crisp 720p HD video with Liquid Image Impact Series HD Digital Camera MX Goggles. (www.thesource.ca, $280)

◀ Like a cherry on a sundae, the Stitched Scarlet Cloche tops off a colourful outfit. (www.anthropologie.com, US$58)

▲ Your little fairy will pirouette over the sweet scent of Philosophy’s Sugar Plum Frost shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath and high-gloss lip shine. (www.sephora.com, $23)

� For the diver in your life, the 3H Oceandiver 52 is stylish, sporty and waterresistant up to 150 metres. (www.cupidodesigns.com, $595)

◀ A 16-hour, built-in rechargeable battery makes the Tivoli Audio iPal Radio ideal for the on-the-go music aficionado. (www.baybloorradio.com, $199)

▼ Brimming with art deco charm, the Henley couch is a classically stylish throwback. (www.decorium.com, $3,000)

� The Cozy Cable Throw is a soft and warm relief when reading on those chilly winter days. (www.chapters.indigo.ca, $69.50)

www.citylifemagazine.ca

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

49

HoLidiSaY

◀ Made from organic cotton,

W H S Li T

Frank & Fishcer’s Bibba Pig cuddle cloth is soft on your baby’s skin. (www.missm.ca, $21)

◀ Sparkling diamonds on 18-karat white

▶ Eau de LaCoste’s three different scents are perfect for the powerful, fresh or elegant gentleman. (www.sephora.com, $62)

gold – the Vanesa is sure to make her smile. (valentejewellers.com, $2,500)

▶ Stay warm and in-style with the faux fur of this lightly padded jacket. (www.hm.com/ca, $60)

▲ The Nest Thermostat learns your in-home habits, programs itself and even saves energy. (www.nest.com, MSRP $249) ▲ Capture those precious holiday moments in vivid detail with the Nikon D3000. (en.nikon.ca, $350)

▼ The festive Capri Blue Mercury Glass Candle is a homemaker’s delight. (www.anthropologie.com, US$25)

▲ Simple and cute, the High Gloss Teapot will cap off those holiday feasts. (www.chapters.indigo.ca, $24.50) ◀ Make the Natural Bay Leaf Garland a pretty pastoral piece in your festive decorating. (www.potterybarn.com, $90)

50 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

www.citylifemagazine.ca

Gift certificates make a wonderful gift!

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H diS

oLi aY

W H S Li T ▶ Tap into the mind of Apple’s co-founder in Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson. (www.chapters.indigo.ca, $35)

▲ Spheres of twigs sparkle with rustic charm on the Little Twig Globe. (www.potterybarn.com, $90)

◀ Start your holiday mornings with a warm espresso using the Brasilia espresso machine. (www.molisana.com, $150) ▶ Blackberry, plum and a hint of coffee form the medium body of Tilia’s Malbec. (www.lcbo.com, $13)

◀ No home can go without a tree. This faux evergreen radiates with merriment. (www.potterybarn.com, $389 –$519)

◀ The Juliaca Knit Stocking is a playful departure from traditional Christmas stockings. (www.anthropologie.com, $38)

▲ A simple leather band carries a spherical ▲ This personalized printable poster is

glass stone on this versatile bracelet. (www.pandora.net, $115)

perfect for your little one’s room. (www.etsy.com, US$15)

52 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

www.citylifemagazine.ca

DISCOVER YOU YOUR UR MAXIMUM MAX POTENTIAL THROUGH UGH THEE STUDY Y OF MARTIAL ARTS.

Studies show that students enrolled in martial arts programs have increased self-esteem and improved focus and concentration abilities in the classroom. With almost 40 years of martial arts instruction under its belt, Northern Karate Schools is the trusted choice for many men, women and children in the GTA. With 10 world-renowned locations, NKS offers award-winning programs taught by instructors with decades of experience.

NORTHERN 3883 Rutherford Rd. 905.265.7777 rutherford@northernkarate.com 4350 Steeles Ave. W. 905.856.4047 steeles@northernkarate.com 1801 Rutherford Rd. 905.303.5202 maple@northernkarate.com 14800 Yonge St. 905.726.8886 aurora@northernkarate.com 11160 Yonge St. 905.508.5811 richmondhill@northernkarate.com www.citylifemagazine.ca

SCHOOLS WWW.NORTHERNKARATE.COM53

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

H diS

oLi aY

▼ Race the Silverlit Interactive Bluetooth Remote Control Enzo Ferrari using only your iPod, iPhone or iPad. (www.apple.com/ca, $80)

W H S Li T ▲ It’s over-sized eyes make the Owl Christmas Ornament a wise addition to any tree. (www.etsy.com, US$13)

▼ Will you answer the Call? The Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, that is. (www.futureshop.ca, $60)

It’s the king of tablets and every tech lover’s dream.

It’s the iPad 2. (www.futureshop.ca, $520)

▲ Simple and sophisticated, this bold peacoat is a smart standout. (www.cartise.ca, $365) ◀ Give the gift of hope with World Vision gift cards. (www.worldvision.ca, $30 – $200)

◀ Glamorous yet festive, this metallic pillow is made for the holiday diva. (www.chapters.indigo.ca, $29.50)

▶ Classic winter design with a sharp shawl collar from H&M. (www.hm.com/ca, $60)

(*Prices are subject to change)

54 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

www.citylifemagazine.ca

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55

Ancient

ADVERTORIAL

THE

WAY

Tetsuhiro Hokama, a master of both Okinawan karate and the art of calligraphy, writes words of encouragement for young students.

T

here is an ancient Buddhist proverb that says, “When the student is ready, the Master appears.” If such is the case, Northern Karate Schools’ students must be well-prepared, as Hokama Tetsuhiro and Shiroma Kiyonori, both 10th dan Hanshi, graced them with their presence this past September.

“It was a great honour to have men of their stature visit our schools,” says Kyoshi Cos Vona, an instructor and sixth-degree black belt at Northern Karate. “It’s extremely rare to have experts of this calibre visit North America, let alone Canada.”

Middle-top: Hokama and Shiroma sit surrounded

by Northern Karate instructors and students, posing for a picture commemorating their visit.

Middle-bottom: Shiroma demonstrates his ancient martial art with Northern Karate instructor Cos Vona. Left: Shiroma stands at the ready before beginning a presentation for students.

From the island of Okinawa, Japan, the birthplace of karate, Hokama and Shiroma both hold the rank of “Hanshi,” essentially a senior expert or grand master. Through demonstrations and lectures, these teacher-of-teachers shared their vast knowledge with eager students. They also presided over an advanced level grading for the most senior teachers of Northern Karate.

“They used to be school teachers, so they’re very personable with a good sense of humour,” says Vona, who has also trained at Hokama’s dojo in the southern Japanese prefecture. “Hanshi Hokama does not personify your typical Japanese karate practitioner. He is down to earth and very humble in nature.”

Hokama’s dedication to traditional Okinawan karate – a style that wasn’t

56 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

TRADITIONAL OKINAWAN KARATE COMES TO NORTHERN KARATE SCHOOLS.

introduced to mainland Japan until the 1920s – has honed a deep understanding for the ancient art, earning him tremendous respect within the karate community. As Vona explains, “He really showed us what traditional, old-school karate is all about. The students were very impressed.”

Shiroma’s martial art is Motobu Ryu Uden Di, an ancient style of grappling that was traditionally reserved for royalty. “His lineage stretches back over 1,000 years and his style has never been seen before in North America. For many, this was a once-in-a-lifetime event.”

Besides authoring several books, including History and Traditions of Okinawan Karate (Masters Martial Arts Supply, 2000); opening the first Karatedo Museum, the Okinawan Prefecture Karatedo and Kobudo Museum, in 1987, and being named the technical advisor for the All-Japan Karatedo Ken Yu Kai, Hokama is also a master of calligraphy.

His steady hand has even inked kanji for many Japanese movie posters. Before departing, Hokama painted several motivational banners encouraging students to stay on the path and to hold fast in the face of adversity. “He really tried to instill traditional martial arts values in our students. It was truly an enlightening experience.” www.northernkarate.com www.citylifemagazine.ca

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

57

Bartolo “Buddy” Valastro Jr. applies a frosted accent to a simple yet pristine cake.

Valastro’s bakery, Carlo’s Bake Shop, has become a globally recognized name, thanks to his extravagant and imaginative designs.

BAKING WITH THE

BOSS

CAKES ARE GENERALLY RESERVED FOR THE FINALE, BUT WITH THE CAKE BOSS IN THE KITCHEN, THEY’RE THE MAIN COURSE.

It’s the artistic hand of Bartolo “Buddy” Valastro Jr. – a man who speaks with such Joe Pesci-like bravado that he may seem more street tough than master baker – that produces this lipsmacking beauty. “We really enjoy using our creativity to design custom cakes,” says Valastro, a fourth generation baker who heads the kitchen at Carlo’s Bake Shop, his family’s bakery in Hoboken, New Jersey. “It’s a merger of traditional

methods of decorating and using new technologies to do things like make them spin or light up.”

sisters, Valastro grew Carlo’s into an internationally recognized bakery and television phenomenon.

Originally opened in 1910 by Carlo Guastaffero, Carlo’s Bake Shop was purchased by Valastro’s father, Bartolo Valastro Sr., in 1964. When the senior

Mixing various types of cake with his “dirty icing” technique and multicoloured fondant, Valastro has baked and frosted everything from a scaled-

I USE ALL OF OUR ORIGINAL RECIPES – WE PREFER OUR TRADITIONAL METHODS, BECAUSE THEY’VE WORKED FOR OVER 100 YEARS. Valastro passed away in 1994, it was up to 17-year-old Buddy to pick up the torch and carry on his father’s legacy. With his mother and four older

58 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

down replica of Walt Disney World’s Cinderella Castle to a Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, complete with fireworks and a ring of fire; to a

Continued on page 62

www.citylifemagazine.ca

All Photography by Marcus Nilsson. Copyright © 2011 DCL

IF

there’s one thing fans of the hit reality TV show Cake Boss will attest to, it’s that there are cakes, and then there are Cake Boss cakes.

The diff erence? A Cake Boss cake is layered, shaped and coloured with such whimsical novelty they’re almost too pretty to cut – but too delicious to resist.

Written By Michael Hill

cake recipe

Buddy’s Techniques DECORATOR’S BUTTERCREAM 7 1/2 cups powdered (10X) sugar 2 1/4 cups vegetable shortening 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter 1 1/2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons cold water 1 Put the sugar, shortening, butter and vanilla in the bowl of a stand mixer

fitted with the paddle attachment and paddle at low-medium speed until the mixture is smooth, with not lumps, about 3 minutes.

WINTER WONDERLAND CAKE MAKES ONE 9-INCH CAKE For this cake, you will need two 10-inch Bundt or Bundt-style pans, 3 inches deep. Note that they should be aluminum, and must not be nonstick or the cakes will collapse while cooling.

Two 9-inch cakes, filled with your choice of filling 4 cups white Decorator’s Buttercream (see “Decorator’s Buttercream”) in a pastry bag fitted with the #7 interchangeable tip 3 pounds baby blue fondant 6 ounces white fondant 1/2 cup crystal or coarse sugar Pearl luster dust

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT Snowflake cutters or plunger cutters, assorted sizes Paintbrush Steamer 1 Prepare the cake: On a turntable, prepare a double-layer cake on a doily-

lined cardboard circle, filling it with the filling of your choice and dirty-icing it without the tip (see “Dirty-Ice the Cake”). Note: After dirty-icing, keep the

buttercream in the bag for affixing design elements to cake and creating the shell border.

2 Cover the cake: Drape the cake with baby blue fondant, smooth it in place

with the smoother, and trim it (see “Apply the Fondant to the Cake”).

3 Make snowflakes: Roll the white fondant out to a 10-inch square, 1/8 inch

thick. Use a small snowflake cutters or plungers to make 18 to 20 snowflakes.

Use a small brush to paint the flakes with luster dust.

4 Apply frost to the cake: Steam the cake and sprinkle 1/4 cup of the sugar

to make a 1-inch border around the top edge of the cake; steam it in place.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup sugar around the bottom of the cake to make a 2-inch border, then steam it into place.

5 Apply the snowflakes to the cake: Pipe buttercream dabs onto the top and

sides of the cake and use it to affix the snowflakes to the cake.

6 Pipe kisses: Use the same bag to squeeze-and-pull kisses around the cake.

The buttercream can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

DIRTY-ICE THE CAKE “Dirty-icing” is Carlo’s Bake Shop-speak for what most bakers call a “crumb coat.” It refers to a thin layer of Decorator’s Buttercream that’s laid down as a frosting to help fondant “stick” to the cake. The proper name, “crumb coat,” refers to the fact that you can see crumbs through the icing. It’s not important that your dirty-icing be perfect, just that it be thin and cover the entire cake.

To dirty-ice a cake, first ice it as you usually would. Then use a piece of poster board to finish the job, getting as close to the cake as possible. After dirty-icing a cake, refrigerate it until the buttercream stiffens, 30 to 60 minutes.

APPLY THE FONDANT TO THE CAKE 1 Set the rolling pin at the far edge of the fondant circle and roll it back

toward you, spooling the fondant up onto the pin and gently knocking off any excess cornstarch.

2 Bring the pin over the cake, unspooling the fondant and lowering it over the other side, letting it drape over the sides and onto your work surface.

Smooth the top with a smoother, then pull and press down gently on the sides to make the fondant taut all around.

3 Caress the fondant with your hands to smooth it against the cake, stretching and pulling it tautly over the top and down the sides, turning the cake and using your fingers to be sure it’s smooth all over.

4 Use a pizza cutter or sharp, thin-bladed knife such as a paring knife, to cut

around the base and remove any excess fondant. Lift the excess ring up and over the cake. Ball up the excess fondant and return it to its storage bag; it can be reused.

5 Put the cake on a turntable. Use a smoother to

smooth out the fondant on the top and sides.

Inspect the cake; if you find any dry spots (they will appear arid and veined), rub a little vegetable shortening over them, then smooth with the smoother.

* All instructions taken from Baking with the Cake Boss: 100 of Buddy’s Best Recipes and Decorating Secrets (Free Press, Nov. 2011).

60 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

www.citylifemagazine.ca

All Photography by Marcus Nilsson. Copyright © 2011 DCL

SNOWFLAKE

2 With the motor running, add the water in a thin stream and continue to paddle until absorbed, about 3 minutes.

Vinsanto would like to thank its valued customers for their continued support and wish them a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season.

Celebrate the holidays in good taste.

Under the soft glow of flickering candlelight, an intricately fashioned dish is placed before you, made with the steady hand of Vinsanto’s masterful culinary experts. Celebrating its fifth anniversary, Vinsanto continues its tradition of serving only the most delectable fare with the most wonderful wines, all complemented by the warm and attractive atmosphere of an extraordinary establishment.

Monday - Friday: Open for lunch • Monday - Saturday: Open for dinner Sunday: Private functions only

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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Continued from page 58

C ative Director/Ownner Davidd Grosssi,, Cre

life-size model of his wife, Lisa. Valastro’s imagination simply knows no bounds.

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With the release of his second book, Baking with the Cake Boss: 100 of Buddy’s Best Recipes and Decorating Secrets (Free Press, 2011), Valastro gives readers a taste of that creativity, providing a tutelage that progressively guides readers from baking basics to cake mastery. “This book is all about the process of making a cake,” says Valastro, who recently attended the inaugural Canada’s Baking and Sweets Show in Toronto, and toured the GTA to share stories and techniques featured in his new book.“In Baking with the Cake Boss, I get to show people how to make some of our signature store cakes.” From cookies to pastries to cakes, Valastro gradually kneads the essentials into readers’ repertoire, so they’re primed for even the most demanding recipe. You can try your hand at a Valastro cake with the Snowflake Winter Wonderland recipe (p.60) that’s featured in his book.

While Valastro’s modern techniques are rich with originality, he never strays from the basic ingredients that built his family’s business. “I use all of our original recipes – we prefer our traditional methods, because they’ve worked for over 100 years.” www.carlosbakery.com

62 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

63

If fuel economy is your concern but you’re weary of range-anxiety inducing EVs, the Volt will get you charged.

Chevrolet Volt

Written By Michael Hill

shocking revelation in eco-friendly driving has made its way to the Great White North, and its name is the Chevrolet Volt. After the buzz about its marathon battery life, the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year is now modestly cruising Canadian streets, and for the environmentallyy conscious driver, this car is a hit.

When GM released the EV1, the first mass-produced electric vehicle (EV) of the modern era 15 years ago, it was received with much content, even though it was available only through lease. In a controversial fashion, however, GM killed off the EV1, citing unprofitability as its demise. Because public perception shifted towards eco-friendly transportation, major automotive manufacturers have changed course.

The Volt’s standard features include navigation system, XM satellite radio, seven-inch LCD display, keyless entry, push-button start and remote starter.

For the past few years, the auto giants have been trying to win over the eco-conscious with their fuel-efficient hybrids and battery-powered EVs. But while EVs are great city cars, their limited battery life has been the source of nail-biting “range anxiety,” and hybrids still use gasoline regularly.

It’s difficult to determine the actual fuel economy of the Volt, as it varies depending on driving style and daily use, yet you’ll be getting the equivalent of 3-L/100 km when running on electricity. When the petroleumpowered engine kicks in, you could be using as little as 5-L/100 km. However, the U.S.’s Environmental Protection Agency gave it a more conservative rating of 6.4-L/100 km. Either way, that’s fantastic fuel economy – great for the environment and your wallet.

The Volt, the EV1’s successor, on the other hand, strikes a middle ground. It’s been trumpeted as the only EV with “extended range,” but in reality, it’s more of a neo-hybrid. In its initial electric mode, the Volt runs off of battery power for 40 – 80 kilometres, depending on factºors such as speed, use of climate control and outdoor temperature. When the battery runs dry, the 84-horsepower, 1.4-litre combustion engine kicks in. It doesn’t drive the wheels, however. Instead, it acts like a generator, powering the battery and giving the Volt an impressive 500 km of additional life. Among the celebrities to own the Chevy Volt is car aficionado and TV host Jay Leno, who, after driving the car to work for a year, has yet to top up the electric car with gas after clocking in 17,000 km.

This new engine configuration means if your commute totals around, say, 50 km, you may start to forget how to work the pumps. But if you’re up for a road trip

64 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

beyond the city limits, this mid-size sedan won’t cause you to sweat, either.

The inaudible 111 kW electric motor obviously isn’t a thoroughbred, but it does deliver a respectable 149-hp and diesel-like 273 lb-ft of torque, will www.citylifemagazine.ca

hit a top speed of 160 km/h, and do 0 – 100 in about nine seconds, providing plenty of functionality for both city and highway driving.

When it’s time to recharge, a standard 120V socket will top off the 16 kWh lithium-ion battery in 10 –12 hours – about four if you use a 240V – costing roughly a buck to charge.

The Volt has a 10-12 hour charge time using 120 volts or about 4 hours on 240 volts.

What’s more, compared to other eco-friendly hybrids and electrics, the Volt actually looks quite sharp.

An athletic posture gives it a sporty esthetic, and the reserved design avoids being ostentatious. On the inside, after the Volt hums to life, a LCD display relays standard

SPECIFICATIONS Chevrolet Volt five-door hatchback extended-range electric vehicle Engine: Drive motor, 111 kW Horsepower: 149 (electric motor) Torque: 273 (electric motor) Top speed (km/h): 160 Transmission: Electric drive system Drivetrain: Front engine/front-wheel-drive Fuel economy L/100km: 6.4 on gasoline 3.0 equivalent on electricity Base MSRP: $41,545

The Volt can reach up to 580-km on a fully charged battery and a topped-up tank of gas.

info like remaining range, gasoline levels and speed. A neat little efficiency gauge also helps you drive as economically as possible. An intuitive seven-inch touchscreen is mounted in the centre dash for navigation, climate control, energy information and XM satellite radio use.

While there’s much to praise, the Volt does come with a price tag: $41,545 MSRP for the base model. Owners are eligible for an $8,230 rebate from the Ontario government, and don’t forget the substantial savings on fuel. As well, due to the sizeable battery situated down its centre, the Volt only seats four. There’s decent cargo space under the hatch, but if you have a larger family, the Volt might only be a secondary vehicle. If you’re an environmentally focused bachelor/bachelorette, newlywed couple or daily commuter looking for the pinnacle of fuel efficiency, the Volt will more than serve your needs. www.gm.ca

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65

SUITE ESCAPES

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5. SPECTRA Glowing with cosmopolitan chic and detailed with a rainbow of colours, Spectra residents will enjoy all the perks of the bright, upscale urban life of downtown Toronto. www.cityplace.ca

3. BEACH CLUB LOFTS Embracing an open, modern concept, Beach Club Lofts put residences within walking distance of Toronto’s historic The Beach community. Ceiling-to-floor windows afford a spectacular view of the waterfront and city skyline. www.beachclublofts.com

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9. ALTO AT ATRIA Contemporary elegance and artistic architecture shape the esthetic of Alto at Atria. Parks and terraces give the community a sociable atmosphere, while access to highways and downtown is nearby. www.tridel.com

4. THE FOUNTAINS With an immaculate European-styled fountain at its core, The Fountains rise in the heart of Thornhill, glistening with modern style, luxurious amenities and environmentally conscious construction. www.libertydevelopment.ca

7. ONE SHERWAY Across from the west-end mall Sherway Gardens, One Sherway is a community of four stunning towers that places the city’s pleasures at residents’ fingertips. www.onesherway.com

10. THE TERRACE ON ROUGE CREEK Brimming with classic style and surrounded by Stouffville’s lush idyllic backdrop, The Terrace on Rouge Creek stands with dignified posture – ideal for those with refined tastes. www.theterracecondos.ca

66 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

67

Kim

and the

CITY TORONTO PLAYS HOST TO KIM CATTRALL CAREER TRIBUTE. Written By Simona Panetta

Left: Kim Cattrall hits the stage at Toronto’s TIFF Bell Lightbox.

Right: Private Lives’ stars Kim Cattrall and Paul Gross.

Within moments, a rapturous applause announces the arrival of Kim Cattrall, who at 55, is no less radiant than when she first began acting as a teenager. She joins the evening’s “In Conversation With … Kim Cattrall” host and CBC senior business correspondent Amanda Lang onstage to partake in a tribute to her career co-presented by TIFF and the Canadian Film Centre. The crowd is soon eating from the palm of her manicured hands. “I can’t believe we’re going to do this in such a short amount

For Cattrall, a door in the room of her life first opened when her great aunt took her to see As You Like It. “I think it happened when I was 10.That’s when I got the tingling for it,” says the British-born, Canadian-raised actress.

The Shakespearean classic certainly inspired a thespian calling in Cattrall, who recently concluded her Toronto run of Noël Coward’s Private Lives at the Royal Alexandra Theatre. She readily admits to being covered in stage makeup to mask the bruises she’s acquired playing Amanda, a role considered a departure from the insatiable Samantha Jones of Sex and the City. “Actors find their voice in film. I always had a voice in theatre,” says the classically trained stage actress. The Richard Eyre revival of the romantic comedy was a

68 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

tel e Pimen y Georg Photo b

In

the dusk of Toronto’s King Street West, the TIFF Bell Lightbox stands aglow as guests hurry in from the cold and into a packed auditorium. The impending event emits a palpable energy that runs between every cushioned seat of the Allan Slaight playhouse.

of time – I’ve had such a long, long career,” she says with a laugh. “And I remember every single moment.” Through conversation, photographs and film clips, the career of Cattrall moves between the lines of a girl motivated by theatre and a woman looking to free herself from her sex symbol status.

hit at The Vaudeville Theatre in London, and is now playing at New York’s Broadway theatre.

Dressed demurely in a black sheath dress and turquoise pumps, Cattrall looks down and squints her eyes bashfully after a clip from the 1980s romantic comedy Mannequin has her dream girl character, Emmy, sashaying across a gleaming department store in clothes that reveal her younger figure.

While a tinge of proud sadness settles across her face, Cattrall effervesces with the kind of confidence that can only be achieved through age and experience. “A lot of things go through www.citylifemagazine.ca

your mind … your youth, the fashion, it’s bittersweet.”

The conversation between Cattrall and Lang unfolds effortlessly over the hour, carried by Cattrall’s earliest forays into acting. After leaving Canada to live in New York on her own at 16, she was cast in Otto Preminger’s Rosebud. Other films include Porky’s and Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country. But her film career never mired her passion for the stage, having starred in theatrical productions over the years that include Anton Chekhov’s Wild Honey. “Acting was about community – not stardom,” says Cattrall, who describes herself as an introvert hiding behind her characters.

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movies, Cattrall hopes to break free from the perception that her talent doesn’t get deeper than the designer-wearing, maneating part that shot her to stardom.

The versatile actress recently peeled off the haute couture and makeup and gained weight for her performance in Meet Monica Velour, where she plays a veteran porn star living in a trailer. “The role frightened me,” says Cattrall. “It was the underbelly of sexuality … and I wanted to explore that. My objective was to give Monica dignity.”

Among the private moments of her life, Cattrall recalls a night in Toronto from her past, where she was co-starring in a movie with Jack Lemmon. “I asked him, how do you get longevity? And he answered: ‘Continue to take things that scare you and challenge you.’ And I think that’s been the secret for me.” www.citylifemagazine.ca

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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Kaplan’s celebrity caricatures cover the walls of his home office.

Marshall Kaplan Reaches for the Stars

I

t’s 3 p.m. on a Tuesday afternoon and Marshall Jay Kaplan is in the middle of reviewing an episode of My House Your Money for the W Network, one of five shows he’s produced in recent years, which includes TLC’s Brides of Beverly Hills and TVTropolis’ Instant Cash.

A few hours earlier he received a phone call from a Canadian Forces corporal who wanted to inform him that the base loves his reality show Totally Tracked Down, where Kaplan himself heads to Hollywood and hunts down celebrities from the ’80s and ’90s like Cloris Leachman and Doris Roberts. If we can learn anything from this Vaughan, Ont. resident, it’s that we’re all capable of drawing our own destinies.

Most people would go on to become a doctor after getting a double degree in microbiology and biochemistry, but as you’ll soon discover, Kaplan is not like most people.

Instead, the University of Toronto graduate decided to turn his talents as a caricaturist into a career and hit the Yellow Brick Road in pursuit of pursuing the celebrities he grew up celebrating. His affinity for the famous began at adolescence, when a young Kaplan would sit in front of a bunny-eared television set and draw portraits of his favourite stars from Hollywood Squares, The Brady Bunch and The Lucy Show. “I think sometimes things are innate, I mean who tells a seven-year-old to start sketching Charlie Chaplin or Lucille Ball?” says Kaplan, who began studying and corresponding with legendary caricaturist to the stars, Al Hirschfeld. “I thought, ‘I want to be like him, I want to do what he does.’ That’s when I started to draw caricatures a lot, a lot, a lot, a lot, like all the time!”

70 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

Photo By Larry Arnal Photography

Written By Madeline Stephenson

Kaplan catches up with The Incredible Hulk star Lou Ferrigno at his gym in Las Vegas.

www.citylifemagazine.ca

Kaplan began pitching his cartoons to local newspapers and was almost immediately syndicated in Canada. As his success snowballed, he proceeded to push his “Where are they Now” column to nearly 60 newspapers in the U.S. that picked it up. His idea to send cartoons directly to celebrities was probably one of his greatest. “You never know what’s going to happen, so if you don’t try anything, nothing will happen,” says Kaplan, who had to resort to phone books and mail in a pre-dot-com era. When he started getting positive feedback and thank-you letters from people like George Michael, John Travolta and Quentin Tarantino, Kaplan became captivated. One instance of gratitude particularly rings a bell: “I answered the phone and someone said, ‘Please hold for Bono.’ I was like, ‘what!?’”

Eventually it got to a point where Kaplan wanted the people he sketched on paper to come to life. He wanted to meet them face-to-face. He started pitching TV concepts to production companies and eventually, Totally Tracked Down got picked up in 2010.

“I was pitching it as a producer and they said, ‘Well, why don’t you host it?’” So the offbeat, spikey haired, selfproclaimed “nut bar” from Woodbridge set out to Los Angeles to track down stars like Seinfeld’s Estelle Harris and The Brady Bunch’s Christopher Knight.

Sometimes he’d have to jump through hoops and harass family and friends, while other times he’d just happen to be at the right place at the right time.

“You have to think positive and you attract positivity. Here I am, I have this affinity towards celebrities, and I bump into them,” says Kaplan, which was the case when he spotted Lindsay Lohan outside the Beverley Hills Hotel on one of his days off. “I saw her walk in and followed her … the whole time we were talking she held my hand, she never let go of my hand once and she always looked me right in the eyes, sweet as can be.” Totally Tracked Down was cancelled when a new production company came in, but Kaplan was consoled when his show was posthumously nominated for a Gemini award.

‘‘YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN, SO IF YOU DON’T TRY ANYTHING, NOTHING WILL HAPPEN.’’

Kaplan will go to any length – or height – to track down a celebrity.

– Marshall Kaplan

Kaplan enjoys time at home with his wife and kids. From left: Ben, Marshall, Rachel, Frances and Joshua.

Photo By Larry Arnal Photography

When Kaplan looks back on his career, he’s proud of the decisions he’s made. His cartoons are still published between 400 – 500 times a year in various North American newspapers, and his mind permeates with new show concepts he hopes to create. As for his time spent studying sciences in university? He would never erase those years; it’s there that he fell in love with his wife of 21 years, Frances. The couple has three children. “Follow your heart, that’s the first thing. Do whatever you want in life because if you do what you want you’ll be successful because you’re happy.”

A snapshot from Totally Tracked Down, where Kaplan catches Seinfeld’s Estelle Harris at the Los Angeles Zoo. Kaplan has a soap opera moment with leading Knots Landing lady Joan Van Ark.

www.marshallarts.ca

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City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

71

Fedora ThewithBoy the

Engulfed in cancer’s chilling shadow, this child’s optimistic outlook provides a light in the dark.

Written By Michael Hill

W

hen he was seven, Joey Mazzucco’s life was turned upside down by cancer. At an age when play is a child’s biggest concern, Joey was placed at the foot of an ominous mountain and told to climb. It was a demanding trek, but Joey refused to judge the journey as a tragedy. There was no time for selfpity, no use in lamenting. He donned his favourite fedora, embraced the power of optimism and climbed. Why? Because there was simply no other choice.

When Joey’s right shoulder began shooting with pain in the summer of 2009, a torn rotator cuff was thought to be the source. A visit to the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), however, revealed the tumour causing his duress, and Joey was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer.

Many may have despaired, being caught in cancer’s grasp, but not Joey. “We made it very positive,” he says, describing how he and his mother often spoke of staying optimistic and making the experience one to remember. “We tried to make it the most memorable year ever and it was a year that will be in our hearts

SickKids ambassador Joey Mazzucco with mother, Maria. Their matching blue accessories united support from friends and family during Joey’s fight against cancer.

until the end of time,” says his mother, Maria Mazzucco.

Over the next 12 months, Joey lived at SickKids, undergoing a marathon 16-hour surgery to remove the cancer.

He lost half his body weight and all his hair due to the chemotherapy and other treatments. “I don’t like being bald,” he says, explaining his lack of hair was why he first sported an iconic fedora. “I don’t really wear another. I love it. It’s a cool hat.” Even through these hardships, Joey found solace in his positive attitude, hosting, for example, chemo parties everytime he or one of his friends was scheduled for treatment.

“He’s a remarkable kid, mature beyond his years,” says Dr. Paul Nathan, staff oncologist at SickKids. “I think he has an incredibly positive outlook, but he’s also a born performer,” he says, recalling how Joey, wearing his unmistakable hat, would often be found visiting others in the hospital, spreading cheer.

Today, nine-year-old Joey is back home and living life to the fullest. He recently gave an inspiring speech at the Rally for Kids with Cancer event in

72 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

Joey shares a smile with Isaiah Mustafa (The Old Spice Guy) at the Rally for Kids with Cancer event in Toronto.

Toronto this past September. Joey has also found a new passion: acting. “I’m doing a Willy Wonka play right now,” he says enthusiastically.

When asked what message he would give to others faced with similar adversity, Joey replies, “I would always tell them to stay positive and think positive, I think that’s a really good strategy. It’s very hard for us [those with cancer], but I would just say never give up.” www.sickkids.ca www.citylifemagazine.ca

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A convenient and economical way to travel, the London Tube connects visitors and locals to the impressive historical attractions and great shopping streets of U.K.’s London.

Links of

LONDON Written By Simona Panetta

It

happens somewhere between a storied London street and a subterranean society that intimidation sets in. I’m studying an intricate map of colour-coded lines, linking and crossing each other like a game of Snakes and Ladders. Choosing dogged pursuit over walking away with my tail between my legs, I duck into a service station to join bobbing tourists on a nexus of travel and history.

England’s London Underground, widely referred to as the Tube, is the oldest of its kind and the busiest in Europe after Moscow and Paris. Much like the octopus of the New York City Subway, the sophistication of the Tube services hundreds of stations across England’s Greater London Area, albeit in a cleaner fashion. Its world-class transit network is the second largest in the world, and like an old, lumbering friend, screeches to a halt for underground visits with Big Ben and St. Paul.

posh community, home to the famous concert venue Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre. The narrow European thoroughfare is sandwiched between Internet hubs, banks, restaurants, quaint cafes and a flurry of French whistling through the streets. It’s been months since the London Riots, the city now restored to its safe and friendly nature.

Inside Earl’s Court Station, I purchase a convenient and affordable smartcard that can be reloaded at any transit station in the city. The Oyster pass can also be used on the London Bus, but after a few bumpy rides, I prefer the iconic double-decker – equipped with the city’s overabundance of CCTV cameras – from an admiring distance. Down a flight of stairs and onto the navy coded Piccadilly line platform, I board the train moments after it barrels to a stop. All the seats are taken. Of what I can decipher, a Parisian couple discusses dinner options for the evening – Le Gavroche or Pied à Terre – they just can’t decide – and a trio of Italian girls drool over the shopping on Kensington High Street, which happens to be my first stop.

ENGLAND’S LONDON UNDERGROUND, WIDELY REFERRED TO AS THE TUBE, IS THE OLDEST OF ITS KIND.

My journey begins on Earl’s Court Road in the royal borough of Chelsea and Kensington, where before her engagement to Prince Charles, Princess Diana took residence. Director Alfred Hitchcock and Freddie Mercury of British rock band Queen also lived in the

An unsurprising mix of British and American stores line the main shopping district, which I end up preferring for its quiet, hipster scene over the spectacle of Oxford Circus. Here, shoppers spill in and out of Selfridges, House of Fraser, Top Shop and Primark, a popular low-cost clothing outlet with runway knock-offs. Recently opened in the eastern side of the city where the 2012 London Olympics will take place, Europe’s biggest shopping centre, the Westfield Stratford City Mall, teems with curiosity seekers.

74 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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The gilded façade of Buckingham Palace.

Back on the Tube, I exit at Knightsbridge, where Chanel and Burberry beckon me to enter Harrods. Founded in the 1800s, the globally renowned department store offers the ultimate in luxury shopping A world-renowned and a gourmet food shop where you can icon, Harrods carries feast on sushi and imported cheese. Like a high-end merchandise from Chanel and other time machine, the train rushes towards the luxury brands. past at South Kensington station, where the grand architecture of the Natural History Museum is enough to skip its interiors. But I cannot not indulge in my interest of dinosaurs. Outside, on the other side of me, a couple metres away, buses and cars leave the space of a nose hair between their flanks and scurrying pedestrians. A stairwell walks underground to a crowded platform, and the ancient artifacts take a distant backseat to what’s waiting at the London Bridge tube station on the Jubilee line. Set across a high-level walkway above the River Thames, the Tower Bridge is the most famous in the world with reason. The suspended masterpiece is an ode to magnificent engineering and a page taken from a fairytale. A backdrop of blue sky and puffy clouds frame the bridge into a postcard, prompting a flash of cameras. Down towards Fish Street Hill, I adjust my eyesight upwards for the Monument Tower, a soaring symbol of the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Keeping time just a few stops away off the station of Westminster is the Big Ben, whose bells have sung through the central location of Westminster for close to 200 years.

Majestic in daylight but more so at night, the clock tower’s gleam of gold sets a sheen of romance across the reach of the Thames. All of this is magnified with a ride on the colossal London Eye ferris wheel. I stay grounded by walking past the Houses of Parliament towards the quiet aura of Westminster Abbey. This generation’s royal wedding is still a topic of intrigue, with tourists forming a long, winding lineup to visit the gothic church and its buried monarchs.

The adjacent gift shop sells mugs, pens, key chains and teapots emblazoned with the faces of Prince William and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge.

Above Left: A London Bus roars down the street past Trafalgar Square.

Above Right: Big Ben, the historical clock tower in Westminster, keeps the busy city on time.

Below: The Tower Bridge gleams with the romance of a fairy tale.

I travel west through St. James Park to where the newlyweds had their first kiss broadcasted to the world: the royal, sprawling Buckingham Palace. It’s late morning, and I watch the dark, lustrous manes of horses trot towards its façade for the ceremonial changing of the guard. Even though you can’t see her, you feel the presence of the Queen Mother, and I can’t help but stand a bit taller. Early next year, the Palace will celebrate her ascension with the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Tearing my eyes away, I follow the pigeons to Trafalgar Square, London’s political epicentre and heart of sculptural splendour.

Families and couples mill about the beauty, and it becomes clear, even through the rain, that the quietly European city of London rivals some of the world’s best metropolises.

My journey concludes with the endless reach of the London Tube, which delivers me to Heathrow Airport, my final stop. www.citylifemagazine.ca

City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

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horoscope

By Richard Ravenhawke

st ars

The

this month!

Capricorn

DEC 22 - JAN 19

Things will work out in the near future. There is a special someone who you have been thinking about or admiring, and they are starting to admire you, too! Let go of what you have been hanging onto and start fresh with new ideas and new beginnings. Watch for a Libra figure that may be bringing news of a big move.

▶Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, turns 30 on January 9.

Aquarius JAN 20 - FEB 18

The tides are turning in your favour, Aquarius! Now more than ever, it is important to stay focused. If you play your cards correctly, you could be stepping into your time of power.

Remember: you have to be smart to play dumb. These are words of wisdom for an Aquarius, who sometimes, just can’t help but say something.

Pisces

FEB 19 - MAR 20

Romantic opportunities may bring refreshed feels of validation for Pisces.

It certainly may have been a while! You have a secret admirer who has been smiling at thoughts of you; perhaps you need only look as far as around the corner. Be confident and allow your wit and charm to win hearts. It is time for your heart to shine!

Aries

MAR 21 - APR 19

It is time to speak little and listen closely. Stories can be good – really good – but sometimes there is more to be learned from what people don’t say than by what they do say. Sometimes what people ‘say’ and what people ‘do’ are two separate things. It is time to watch and observe carefully to separate fact from fiction.

Taurus

APR 20 - MAY 20

Sometimes discretion can be the best part of valour. But never forget that wisdom has two parts: the first is knowing what to say, and the second is not saying it.

To interfere with someone’s karma is

to become responsible for it, and that is the last thing in the world that any of us want. We have enough with our own.

Gemini

MAY 21 - JUN 20

Things are starting to turn, be it for better or worse. Why is it that choices would have been so much easier to make if foresight was better than hindsight?

You have lots of people around you that love and support you. Challenges can only make us stronger, and if that is the case, is there really ever a wrong choice?

Cancer

JUN 21 - JUL 21

Family life could have you running around like a cop in a doughnut factory.

Take time for yourself and breathe. At some point in life, we have to accept the cold harsh reality that we cannot save the world. There are many around who love and appreciate you for what you do.

It’s time they showed it by helping with the dinner dishes.

Leo

JUL 22 - AUG 21

If you are looking for answers, they may be closer than you think. Sometimes they can be as close as looking in the mirror. Nine times out of every 10, if someone has to ask a question, he or she already knows the answer on the inside.

It is human nature, however, to have to hear it from others. A lot of validity can be gained through the venue of confirmation.

Virg o AUG 22 - SEPT 21

Watch for investment opportunities, especially when it comes to property and real estate. It may be time for a refreshing

82 City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2011/12

change. Make sure to start a disciplined savings regime, because over the next little while, opportunities like this may be presenting themselves, and you don’t want to be caught with empty pockets.

Libra SEP 22 - OCT 20

The confusion you may have been experiencing lately should soon clear up.

You have a good-looking friend that would love you to open up your eyes and see the potential of a future filled with happiness and sincerity. Watch for a Capricorn figure that is very significant, and may have some much-needed advice.

Scorpio OCT 21 - NOV 21

Business plans are coming along quite well for the Scorpio on the move.

For those who may be stuck in more structured work environments (you need to escape!), there may be opportunity for a promotion or possible travel. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other foot, and before you know it, there will be sunshine!

Sagitt arius NOV 22 - DEC 21

Travel plans may be delayed if you haven’t crossed all of your T’s and dotted all of your I’s with your present career situation. A little bit of organization can go a long way – all things are possible when you really put your mind to it.

Once you have made sure all is in place … bon voyage!

Richard Ravenhawke 416.898.HAWK (4295) ● richardravenhawke@yahoo.com ● www.ravenhawkpsychic.com

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