City Life Magazine — August/September 2018

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SUICIDE: HOW MENTAL HEALTH PLAYS A ROLE

36

NOAH CAPPE: FOOD AND FAMILY TUG AT THIS MAN’S HEART

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#CITYGUIDE: EVERYTHING IN THE CITY AND BEYOND

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MOVIE RATINGS: R-RATED IN 1980, BUT PG-13 IN 2018

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VOLUME 16 ISSUE 4 | AUG/SEPT 2018

CONTENTS 36

ON THE COVER

40

SHERRY HOLMES: Working in the construction industry, Holmes shows us that we can do whatever we put our minds to as she deconstructs stereotypes and misconceptions about this field of work

22

54 65

22 DEATH BY SUICIDE: The recent deaths of Anthony Bourdain and Kate Spade leave us wondering what lies at the root of this issue

34 CIRKA: This Montreal-based craft distillery makes its way to Toronto to display its spirits that are now available through the LCBO

36 NOAH CAPPE’S CARNIVAL:

This fun-loving TV host talks about his life in the entertainment industry and provides a sneak peek at his newly renovated home

30

20 ANTHONY RICCIARDI:

58 PG-13 OR R: With movies

30 EDITOR’S PICKS:

65 CHRISTOPHE DUFAU:

Taking the world by storm with his vibrant creations, this colour-blind artist has found his passion and followed it to success Check out all the latest locales and hottest products that you need to have in your life

54 ACURA RDX: Take a

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Aug/Sept 2018

seat and revel in the luxurious features and high-quality performance abilities of the all-new 2019 Acura RDX

becoming more and more graphic, how can we truly tell what to expect and what is appropriate for our children?

Hosting its Marché event, Grey Goose brought out this Michelinstarred chef to give Torontonians a taste of the French Riviera

More stories inside …

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9

PUBLISHER’S NOTE PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Fernando Zerillo

Co-Founder/Creative Director

ATTITUDE IS

T

EVERYTHING

he part of this quote that I love the most is, “10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it …”

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Part of me wishes I had come across this quote earlier in life. It was around the time I was 15 years old. I was a young girl in high school, trying to define my identity as a person and deciding on a future career that would satisfy my love for heavy machines, physical work, discipline, respect … all qualities I thought would be part of a military career. However, when my (male) guidance counsellor burst out laughing and gave me his spiel on why the army was not a place for women, I did not have the courage to pursue my desire for this career. Although, I’m now happy with what I have achieved and myell, current I can’t help butthis think what in thecareer case choice, of Yolanda Gampp, could be could have been, had Iareacted diff erently.

So, when hearing about young real possibility. If you’re not yet familiar with women like Sherry Holmes, whoshe are headstrong about what they want her work, is a multi-millionaire YouTube to do and don’t care about what people might think — particularly when baker (3.3 million subscribers, that is) … all the field they enter is predominantly a male-dominated industry — thanks to her incredible imagination. that makes me smile.

This is a woman who dreams up cakes for a living — not Too often in life, we succumb to peer pressure, or are afraid of people traditional tiered shapes and flavours, but cakes that look like who may be judgmental about our life choices. hot dogs, huge candy apples, watermelons, in flavours like the It’s time to find the power to change the conversation. ultimate red Sherry, velvet for andshowing chocolate cakeeverywhere … You get the So, thank you, women that weidea. can Sweet mother of God, this lady has the power to tempt even do just as well — if not better — in what was traditionally defined as thework.” strongest-willed person with heroncakes!

Her belief is that “man’s Read her inspirational story page 40. anything possible, and with love and support of family We here at is City Life Magazine are the all about starting a conversation. andother friends, the highest levelstoofhave success are mental attainable.

Read So, the conversation we need is about health. her story on page 38.

Sometimes, like in the cases of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, of belief, we allcontributing pray that our faithdeath needbynever be where Speaking mental health was a factor to their suicide, testeddown the way Paul De Lio’s is. Many of and us go through breaking the barrier of judgmental people reaching outlife to evertohaving to can question why tragedies strikebetween our liveslife or talkwithout to someone get help really mean the difference livesWe of often othersignore in thethe world. years back, we published andthe death. signsAoffew someone in distress as we go about busyabout lives. the But,defi we nition cannotofturn a blind eye, and asking the recent an our article God. I remember the surge of violence ourquestion city is further proofreligious that we leaders: should keep the writer to poseinthis to various “Where channels of communication open. is issue is not else’s was God in moments such as Th 9/11?”

Given the“someone recent state of

CAN YOU HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO?

W

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Aug/Sept 2018

ATTITUDES

Believe live, the more I realize the In a worldThe thatlonger is fastIbecoming soulless impact of attitude on Be challenged to find your own soul life.

Then maketoit me, selflis ess.

Attitude, more important than facts. It is more When the television only tragedy than money, important than theportrays past, than education, Be challenged to turn it off than circumstances, than failures, than successes, Spend your time working on your own humility. than what other people think or say or do. It is more If you’re surrounded by people who are envious important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will Be challenged to cull the herd around you make or break a company … a church … a home.

Fill your life with those who bring joyousness.

During the times you feelis, utterly hopeless The remarkable thing we have a choice every day Be challenged claw your wayembrace out regarding theto attitude we will for that day. We Understand that genuine is timeless. cannot change our pasthappiness … we cannot change the fact Find soul. in certain yourself.

Trust your God. thatyour people willBelieve act in a way.

Weincannot change Love your family.

Share your plenty.

Lean when you the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the need. Live loud. one out string we have, and that is our attitude …

Love heartily.

Growthat yourlife humanity.

I am convinced is 10% what happens to me Infect the worldand with90% yourhow faith.

I react to it …

And so it—isfrom withThe youWife … by Iris Imeneo we are in charge of our attitudes.

natural disasters and extreme weather conditions, one could — Charles ask the same question now.

In DeSwindoll Lio’s case, where was God when deadly bacteria infected his body, nearly taking his life and resulting in the amputation of both of his legs?

In that article years ago, one of the questioned religious leaders replied that God in thetofibe remen up the stairs problem,” and we was all need heldgoing accountable when to it rescue comes to the well-being people in the towers.

It’s a response that to this date gives me the of our community.

Another big challenge health is the fact that we might comfort.

Likewise, now,with Godmental is in the rescue workers bringing think recognize signs of someone struggling with this reliefwe to can Puerto Rico,the Mexico and Florida.

And God was indisease. the In thewho case fought of Anthony andPaul Kate, these both seemed doctors to save De Lio.two Heindividuals was with the family to befriends happy who on the surface. the fact they were struggling. and prayed forBut De Lio’s lifeis, and later, forboth his recovery.

So, you just see,amental healthafter doeshis notordeal, discriminate.

We all need Today, few months De Lio is filled with to educate ourselves in what could be some telltale signs of a person positivity and gratitude. He is ready to help others find ways to who is struggling with mental health issues.

Even someone with live with motivation. Dare I say, then, God also resides in De an impressive smiling Lio’s heart.level Seeofhissuccess story or onapage 32. high achiever on social media could a candidate.

Ofbe course, it’s possible you do not agree with my thoughts lot whereabouts of work has been done We in the 10 years about how tonot fight onAthe of God. allpast know that one should the stigma around this disease, but much more work needs to be done speak casually of politics or religion, for these are sensitive to ensure there is more tolerance and understanding in this field. Our topics (although the weather isn’t exactly a safe topic anymore, story on page 22 shares some insight on the first line of defence, as well either). But perhaps you will be interested in our story about as on recognizing the differences between having the blues and feeling the Bahá’Í Faith, a relatively new religion with 5 to 7 million depressed. Sometimes all it takes is starting a conversation, listening adherents practising globally.

If youWe believe in the betterment and validating that person’s feelings. don’t necessarily need to of have the world, in unity, love and service, you might fi nd your place the answers, but we can take a moment to just be present and show here.weBahá’Í’s equality of all sexes, races and creeds, that care —believe withoutinjudgment. and in the harmony of science and religion. on page 74.

We hope you enjoy this latest edition of CityStory Life Magazine, as we In this day and age, we could all use more unity, love and faith, — continue to bring you stories that matter, that provoke conversations regardless of or what form—it to takes. you enjoyhappy this edition of not just a like a heart keepMay you informed, and healthy City Life life, is yours to experience and do in your lifeMagazine. in our city It, andlike beyond. with what you will.

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Zerillo-Sosa Michelle Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

@citylifemag / @amorebagstoronto / @fernandozerillo @dolcetweets @amorebagstoronto

www.mycitylife.ca

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michelle Zerillo-Sosa • michelle@dolce.ca Michelle Zerillo-Sosa • michelle@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca ART D E PARTM E NT ART D E PARTM E NT CO-FOUNDER / CREATIVE DIRECTOR CO-FOUNDER / CREATIVE DIRECTOR Fernando Zerillo • fernando@dolce.ca Fernando Zerillo • fernando@dolce.ca SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Christina Ban SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Christina Ban GRAPHIC DESIGNER Axl Valdez JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Axl Valdez SENIOR UI/UX DESIGNER Yena Yoo WEB DESIGNER Yena Yoo WEB DEVELOPER Jordan Carter WEB DEVELOPER Jordan Carter JUNIOR UI/UX DESIGNER Nathan Chan JUNIOR UI/UX DESIGNER Nathan Chan E D ITO R IAL D E PARTM E NT E D ITO R IAL D E PARTM E NT FASHION & HOME DÉCOR EDITOR Michelle Zerillo-Sosa FASHION & HOME DÉCOR EDITOR Michelle Zerillo-Sosa FOOD & TRAVEL EDITOR Angela Palmieri-Zerillo FOOD & TRAVEL EDITOR Angela Palmieri-Zerillo WRITER Victoria Scott WRITER Brandon Harripersaud CONTRIBUTING WRITERS WRITERS Sarah Kanbar,CONTRIBUTING Shaun Melady, Rick Muller, Donna Paris, Rick Muller, Cece M.Donna Scott,Paris, MylesBianca Shane Ricci COPY EDITORS AND PROOFREADERS Catharine Chen, D.Susan Grimbly, Nina Hoeschele Jennifer Foster, Nina Hoeschele CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Nicholls, CarlosKrisA. Lou, PintoCarlos A. Pinto Ryan Emberley,Chris Geoff Fitzgerald, PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER Sarah Kanbar SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Bianca Ricci

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ISSN 1206-1778 Next Issue: April/May 2018 2018 October/November reflect The opinions expressed in City Life Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily refl the views of the publisher or advertisers. Dolce Media Group does not assume liability for content.

The material in this magazine is intended for information purposes only and is in no way intended to supersede professional advice. We are proud to be a Canadian company that has successfully published magazines for the past 20 years without any government funding or fifinancial assistance of programs to cover editorial costs. It has all been possible thanks to the wonderful support of our readers and advertisers. ©2018 Dolce Media Group • www.dolcemedia.ca • Printed in Canada

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City CITY Life LIFE Magazine MAGAZINE

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Community

HILLCREST MALL

◀ Pixopop toddler backpack, available at West Coast Kids

“Hillcrest; It’s Here.”

With a new look and an array of trendy stores, shoppers will find everything they need, all in one convenient location WRITTEN BY VICTORIA SCOTT

F

▲ Herschel Abbot beanie, available at West Coast Kids ▶ Striped T-shirt and coloured twill pants, available at Okaidi

▲ Lacoste Carnaby Evo 318-6, available at Browns

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Aug/Sept 2018

or over 40 years, Hillcrest Mall has acted as the centre of its community. But with more and more young families making their home in Richmond Hill, Ont., and the surrounding communities, Hillcrest wanted to give them the best destination possible.

Redevelopments within the mall were kick-started to tie in with the developments occurring within the community. The south wing of the mall now hosts H&M, Starbucks, Pandora, a 38,000-square-foot Sporting Life and has just welcomed West Coast Kids, a 17,000-square-foot store that has products for infants, children and teens. To coincide with that, Hillcrest has embarked on developing the north wing, where HomeSense, Marshalls, Indigo and Old Navy are set to open their doors this fall.

With all of these stores, Hillcrest has a little bit of everything and has created the ideal lifestyle experience, says

Lisa Resnic, the marketing director of Hillcrest Mall.

Interior renovations were also an important part of this redevelopment and consist of new floor tiles and retrofitted new LED lighting throughout the mall, as well as a freshly painted ceiling. The washrooms were renovated last year, and Hillcrest will be installing new seating throughout the mall and into the food court, tying in with the food courts new design.

Hillcrest Mall recognizes its prominent role in the community and as such values giving back and acting as a role model.

Currently, Hillcrest is partnering with the Mackenzie Health Foundation and the Sandgate Women’s Shelter, and in the past it has worked with Toy Mountain, 360 Kids and the Richmond Hill Food Bank.

Hillcrest has also set up beehives on its roof, and they are thriving, thanks to the surrounding gardens of Richmond Hill.

In addition, Hillcrest has implemented various sustainability efforts that have won it a BOMA BEST Gold Certification.

The mall has implemeted an organic waste program, installed electric car chargers and has heating and cooling systems that are timed to correspond with mall traffic.

“We’re not just about being a shopping centre; we’re about giving back to the community,” says Resnic. “Whether it’s educationally, whether it’s through philanthropy, whether it’s through providing a place for people to meet and have a coffee together, that’s what we’re here for.”

With Hillcrest Mall’s fresh look and new retailers making themselves at home this fall, be sure to come out and get your back-to-school shopping done — then wait and see what Hillcrest has in store for this holiday season. www.hillcrestmall.ca @shop_hillcrest www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HILLCREST MALL

A Lifestyle Experience

flip. click. tap.

The city at your fingertips.

Print • Online • Mobile • Social www.mycitylife.ca

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A DV E R TO R I A L

ANTHONY CAPUTO: THE PEOPLE-FIRST APPROACH IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE Dedicated to providing his clients with the best experience he possibly can, Anthony Caputo has risen to the top, thanks to his outstanding values

W

hatever your line of professional business may be, success in your career depends in large part upon your ability to interact with people.

Perhaps no career demands that more than the residential real estate profession, where you are up close and personal with each of your clients, and where trust, honesty and expertise are absolutely required virtues. This is where agent Anthony Caputo of Coldwell Banker shines and separates himself from the rest.

“Interacting with people is my favourite part of the business,” says Caputo. “Seeing a smile on someone’s face once the transaction is completed gives me a lot of satisfaction. The philosophies which guide my business are very simple: love, integrity and respect. I care about the process. I don’t do it for the money as my clients always come first, and in every transaction, from lower priced into the millions, everyone gets this same treatment.”

In addition to being a Certified Home Marketing, Leasing and Negotiation Specialist, Caputo is Smart Home Certified and recently received a Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation from Coldwell Banker, which fits perfectly with the markets he chooses to specialize in.

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COLDWELL BANKER 23 Mill St., Bolton, Ont. 905-857-2820 www.coldwellbanker.ca

®

SELECT REAL ESTATE

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

Being a part of so many communities and working with a variety of people, Anthony Caputo values giving back and making contributions to the community

“I work primarily in Bolton, Caledon, Vaughan, King, Nobleton, Kleinburg, Orangeville and Alliston [, Ont.],” says Caputo. “I focus on these communities because population migration moves in that direction. However, wherever business takes me, that’s where I go.”

It’s an active lifestyle for this father of three, who also gives his time to Big Brothers Big Sisters and who works on the Heart to Heart Gala for SickKids Hospital each February. His career has always involved sales, but he finally found his footing in highend residential real estate with a breakthrough moment that all agents eventually require.

“My breakthrough in this business was the house I sold on Blueberry Hill,” recalls Caputo. “That put me on the map, as it was the highest-selling home in Bolton at the time.”

Caputo feels his success in the business is due in large part to being reliable, dependable and organized, as well as working with a great team at Coldwell Banker. That doesn’t mean anyone in this competitive business can sit still.

“I also continually take courses to educate myself further,” says Caputo. “This allows me to take on different types of real estate and clients. My continuing education also allows me to educate my clients further in what they need to know during transactions.”

While a life in luxury real estate may seem glamorous to some, Anthony Caputo knows it’s his people-first approach that separates the best from the rest.

ANTHONY CAPUTO 416-938-7771 www.anthonycaputo.ca www.mycitylife.ca

Vera Wang With Love Noir Accent Plate

Le Creuset Round French Oven

Vera Wang With Love Gold Toasting Flutes

Vera Wang With Love Always Piggy Bank

S

ince 1989, Desirée has been Vaughan’s go-to location providing the finest selections of home décor, tableware and more. Whether you are creating a bridal registry or even welcoming a baby, Desirée’s expertly trained staff will be more than happy to help, thanks to their extensive knowledge of their expansive array of products. With designer and lifestyle brands such as Le Creuset, Alessi, Versace, Villeroy & Boch, Wedgwood and even Vera Wang, its vast selection has something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Desirée’s new location boasts a trendy, state-of-the-art space that highlights the beautiful, timeless pieces on offer. Led by sisters, Carmela and Josie, this familyrun business is an established Vaughan locale celebrating 29 years in business.

“We will continue to provide unmatched customer service to our loyal customers, while bringing them the latest trends and notable brands they have come to know and love,” say the sisters.

Lladro You’re Everything To Me

Le Creuset Zen Tea Kettle Cherry

Michael Aram White Orchid Napkin Holder (White Marble Base)

Alessi Mediterraneo Fruit Basket

LSA Vodka Paddle Set

Le Creuset Salt Pepper Shaker in Soleil

Nespresso Essenza Mini Vera Wang Lace Gold Covered Vegetable

3590 Rutherford Rd., Unit 9, Vaughan, Ont. www.mycitylife.ca 905-850-2818

City Life Magazine www.desiree.ca

Aug/Sept 2018

15

beauty

#CityStylist City Life goes one-on-one with some of Vaughan’s top hairstylists to see what inspires them and get the latest look at some of the trendiest hairstyles INTERVIEWED BY VICTORIA SCOTT

SIMONA DAMIANO Owner of The Shop Beauty Bar www.simonadamiano.com

Q. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A HAIRSTYLIST? SD. I have to say that for me it all began as a child. I loved watching my mom meet her friends at the local hair salon and engage in conversation, share laughter and walk out looking beautiful.

That entire experience to me seemed so wonderful. A place where friends can gather, share stories, help one another and walk out looking and feeling amazing.

Who wouldn't want to be a part of that?

PHOTO COUTESY OF SIMONA DAMIANO

Q. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR CITY? SD. Where do I begin? I live and work in this incredible city, and I am so grateful to do what I love in a city I love. Our city is so vibrant with cultural diversity and artistic appreciation. We really have such a wonderful culture of kindness and acceptance that helps to boost my creative juices. It is the best city to be in.

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Aug/Sept 2018

Q. DEFINE BEAUTY. SD. The definition of beauty in my eyes has always been something that radiates [from] within. I know that can come across as cheesy, but it doesn’t for me. I have had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know clients who feel like family, who have overcome physical and emotional obstacles [and for whom] I have had the privilege of participating in the outer beauty role. And I can say that in the end, when my work is done, it is that [emergence] of inner beauty that inspires me to create the outer beauty.

The inner beauty radiates through and outshines all. www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO COUTESY OF KROMA HAIR SALON

Q. WHAT GIVES YOU THE DRIVE TO DO WHAT YOU DO? SK. Passion. If you’re lacking this one vital trait in your business model — I cannot imagine you being happy or successful. Kroma Hair Salon is my studio, a place where I continue to develop my artistic skills and my “craft.”

I am driven by the ability to be in touch with my inner passion for hair every day.

The passion I have for the beauty and hair industry is what continues to drive my business, but more importantly, [it drives] my team and employees.

STEPHANIE KARELLAS Owner & Director of Kroma Hair Salon www.kroma-salon.com www.mycitylife.ca

PAUL ORIENTE Owner and Head Stylist of Salon Gio www.salongio.ca

Q. IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING ABOUT THE INDUSTRY, WHAT WOULD IT BE? PO. I wish there were more collaborations between salons and stylists — a community of interest, where we could share ideas, build relationships and possibly rally around a common cause for charitable purposes.

Q. WHAT ARE THE COLOUR TRENDS FOR THE FALL? PO. Rich, multi-faceted highlights, including deep blond, copper and cinnamon, will be popular this year — multi-dimensional colour in complementary tones.

Q. WHAT IS A CHALLENGE YOU FACED AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT? PO. Our family business was originally located in Downsview [, Ont.,] which was a declining area. We made the tough decision to relocate after nearly 50 years, which was incredibly scary but also exciting — not knowing whether we would be able to hang on to existing [customers] or build new clientele. But after more than 10 years in our current location, I have to say that it was the best decision we could have made. We have a booming business — a great mix of both old and new clientele and wonderful staff as well.

Q. WHAT IS A CHALLENGE YOU FACED, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT? JK. When I first began as a stylist, it was difficult to build confidence in myself. I saw so many of my superiors and mentors do incredible work and it all seemed so effortless to them. I eventually realized that being a stylist is a craft, and I couldn’t expect myself to improve without determination. The same way a pro athlete practises each day, I spent my off days researching new techniques and learning the science of esthetics.

As my knowledge and experience in the industry grew, so did my confidence.

PHOTO COUTESY OF JORDIN KONIARIS

Q. TELL US THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A STYLIST. SK. The answer to this question is most definitely a common one. We make people feel beautiful inside and out every day.

How could you not love this one aspect, right? It’s the truth. One of the best parts of being a stylist is how rewarding it is to see how any part of my job day to day can somehow impact another. Because I truly love what I do — it makes it all that much more enjoyable.

Q. TELL US THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A STYLIST. JK. The best part about being a stylist is the people. I’ve been fortunate to meet so many fascinating people over the years, and a lot of those relationships have blossomed into strong friendships. The culture at Metropolis Hair Studio is a lot like a big family — we take care of each other and support each other no matter what. When we see a new face enter the studio, it’s just another opportunity to spread the love and grow the family.

PHOTO COUTESY OF SALON GIO

Q. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A HAIRSTYLIST? SK. I had always had the “inner bug” to become a hairstylist — from a young age. I immersed myself in the hair industry in my early teens just as an apprentice/assistant and was guided by some great and constructive mentors.

The individuals I have been blessed to have worked alongside in the past have certainly inspired my passion, and [they] encouraged me to set goals of my own, where I could lead the life I had always dreamed of.

JORDIN KONIARIS Intermediate Stylist at Metropolis Hair Studio www.metropolishairstudio.ca

Q. DEFINE BEAUTY. JK. “Beauty” can be a complicated word.

As a stylist, I’ve seen beauty in so many different forms. The way we present ourselves is very much a form of art and, as we all know, art is subjective. With that being said, I think a person is most beautiful when they’re expressing their true self. I love when clients are willing to try something new, as long as they are doing it for themselves and nobody else. That’s beauty.

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A dv e r to r i A l

left to right: Standing - Mary diMonte, Petal douglas, Kathleen Zorzi Sitting - Angela del Borrello, Cathy diSavino

photo by Carlos a. pinto

Décor You

can TrusT

Dive into the decorating world with some help from Steeles Paint’s certified interior decorators

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ith 40 years of experience in the decorating industry, Claudio Grisolia, owner of Steeles Paint, understands what people need when it comes to decorating their homes. Steeles Paint is also proud to offer Canadas largest inventory of Benjamin Moore Paints, as well as paint supplies, colour matching and wood stains, this 20,000-square-foot supercentre has it all. Grisolia has even employed interior decorators to work with clients and make the decorating experience even smoother. Angela Del Borrello and Petal Douglas are two of the five certified interior decorators working at Steeles Paint. With over 30 years of experience between them, they sat down with City Life to give readers some insight into the intricate world of interior decorating and to tell us how Steeles Paint can help you.

Q. How does Steeles Paint assist in the process of making a home feel happy?

PD. As decorators, we have to ask the right questions. The only way to make a space happy for a customer is getting to know the customer, then applying our knowledge of design to the space.

Q. Tell us how Steeles Paint’s interior designers and paint specialists can help customers avoid expensive décor and paint disasters.

ADB. Seeking professional help from a decorator is helpful as we can act as a mediator between clients and tradespeople.

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photo by ppG paints

photo by benjamin moore

Pale Pink Satin 008 by Benjamin Moore

including accessories is an important part of making a room your own; they can add personal touches that highlight your own style and design preferences

As professionals, we can provide advice and guidance throughout the process, for instance, calculating the quantity of paint required, choosing the correct paint sheen and colour application for the job.

Q. How do you approach clients and get a feel for their space or design requests?

ADB. Since everyone’s perception of decorating is different, we need to ask our clients questions, such as: ‘What is the function of the room? What are the family dynamics? Do you prefer bold colours or soft neutrals?’ These questions allow us to get a sense of the scope of work the client is looking for. From there, we use colour charts, floor plan layouts and inspiration boards to help clients visualize how their space could look.

Q. What advice do you have for those who are looking to redecorate their homes?

PD. Keep it simple. In certain areas of the house, you won’t be able to change everything. Stick to a neutral palette and clean lines. Mixing different finishes, textures and accessories is a great way to add personality to any space.

Q. What colour paint and décor should consumers gravitate to come fall 2018? Are there any popular colours or trends that are taking off?

ADB. Victorian Lace 2100-70 by Benjamin Moore is a blush pink, which is a popular colour for 2018. It’s considered a neutral colour due to its muted tone. Warm beiges and creams such as CC-90 Natural Linen are making a comeback as well.

Q. What does Steeles Paint offer that makes working on projects easier?

ADB. Our knowledgeable staff paired with our extensive array of stains, paint, wallpaper and customizations make Steeles Paint your one-stop shop for all your decorating needs. Solving your design dilemmas at Steeles Paint is easy.

4190 Steeles Ave. W., Woodbridge, Ont. 905-850-4040 www.steelespaint.com www.mycitylife.ca

10 YEARS IN A ROW

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www.mycitylife.ca

WWW.NORTHERNKARATESCHOOLS.COMAug/Sept 2018

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Art

Recognizing that it is impossible to make everyone happy was crucial for Ricciardi, as from there he began to create art that he liked and hoped that audiences would recognize his genuineness and relate to his pieces

photos by carlos a. pinto

Anthony Ricciardi Painting Outside the Lines 20

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Quitting a stable job to pursue a passion like art is always nerve-wracking, even a little risky. Knowing that, Anthony Ricciardi struck out into the art world, anyway, where he and his artistic creations have been met with unparalleled success WRitten By Victoria Scott

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ooking back, Anthony Ricciardi never envisioned that he would become a full-time artist. Sure, he loved to paint and create art, but it never seemed like a viable career.

In fact, after high school he went to Alabama State University on a baseball scholarship. There he studied finance, and upon returning to Toronto Ricciardi got a job at a real estate investment fund.

Although he had this full-time job, he pursued art in his free time. “Every single night and weekend I was painting,” he says. “For about five years, I considered myself a full-time artist on the side.”

When it got to the point where he was giving up opportunities when it came to his art in order to work, he decided a life change was in order. He didn’t want to look back at his life in five years and regret not taking a chance. So, he quit his job and dedicated himself to his passion.

“There’s never the right time to do something crazy like quit your job [and] become an artist, and it definitely wasn’t the right time when I quit,” he says. “I quit a week before my wedding. I quit the day that I closed on my first house.

Everything told me, You’re crazy; this is not right, don’t do it now.’”

Although Ricciardi’s father was nervous to hear about this choice, he knew that all he could do then was show his support. “[My wife and I] are the two people who encouraged him his whole life, telling him that if he worked hard enough and put all his efforts into what he was doing, it would work out,” recollects Mike Ricciardi, Anthony Ricciardi’s father. “Therefore at that moment, you www.mycitylife.ca

Many of Ricciardi's pieces include hearts and positive affirmations to remind him to always follow his heart, as he believes doing so will help ensure that good things will come

there’s never the right time to do something crazy like quit your job [and] become an artist can give your advice, remind him of the risks, make sure that he has thought this through, but ultimately let him do it, and reassure him that we’re there for him.”

Thanks to this incredible support system made up of Ricciardi’s parents and his wife, Cassandra, whom Ricciardi has been with since Grade 10, he had the foundation to chase his dreams.

Since that day, his art has become incredibly popular. He’s been given the opportunity to display his work in galleries in both Yorkdale Shopping Centre and in Toronto’s Yorkville village. “I think that being in such incredible locations has been instrumental to all the growth,” he says. “The exposure and [the experience] overall have been phenomenal.”

With pieces that are every colour of the rainbow, it was shocking to find out that Ricciardi is colour-blind. You’d think that this would stand in his way as an artist, but Ricciardi has used it to his advantage,

as it allows him to create the depth that he has become so recognized for.

With canvas work, murals across the globe and a clothing line, Dust of Gods, Ricciardi has done it all. But through each medium, his approach is the same: “I work in stages. I get my bases down, I get my word, my font, my this, my that and then add it all together.”

With the amazing pieces he creates, it’s only natural to think that he must have studied art, but that is not the case.

“My only formal training in art besides high school was through my uncle,” says Ricciardi. “My uncle was an artist, and growing up I painted with him almost every single time I saw him.” Although his uncle passed away five years ago, Ricciardi credits his uncle for where he’s at today — it is all due to his inspiration and guidance, says Ricciardi. www.ricciardipaints.com Aug/Sept 2018

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wellness

MentAl HeAltH Does Not DiscrimiNate The recent deaths by suicide of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain have brought one of society’s biggest controversies to the forefront — how should mental health issues be addressed?

Written By cece m. scott

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lex Shendelman’s sister ended her life by suicide more than a decade ago. In her early 30s, she had struggled with mental health and addiction issues for most of her life. Shendelman is the person who found her. “It shatters your life,” he says.

“At first, there is complete shock and a feeling of numbness as you go through the motions to get things done, plan the funeral and, in my case, sit shiva. As we moved into our loss, we had to deal with the impact of what it was doing to our family,” he says. “Death by suicide is a very complicated loss: there are the complications from the trauma; complications within the family — people not being on the same page; complications around communication issues — what to say or what not to say. There are also issues around the narrative.

People become private investigators as they try to understand what happened, what led up to it, the clear reason around the suicide and where we, as survivors, fit into it.”

When talking about suicide, appropriate language is of the utmost importance. Saying a person committed suicide is inappropriate, as it references suicide as a crime; suicide is not illegal. The more appropriate language is death by suicide, or he or she took their own life by suicide. It is also important to share the correct narrative around the person who died, so that person is not defined by their death, but, rather, on how they lived, including an open discussion and accounting of their life challenges, addictions and mental health issues. Connecting with other suicide loss survivors is another important part of the process and facilitates the ability to move forward. Shendleman, who volunteered for a few years as a grief facilitator with the Suicide Loss Survivor Support Program, is now the manager, Traumatic Loss Survivor Support Programs, at Distress Centres, a resource that offers emotional support and crisis intervention for the community’s at-risk and most vulnerable individuals. “We meet with suicide loss survivors, train volunteers and offer support. Isolation is an incredibly difficult barrier to overcome, and with that in mind, we founded Pathways Forward: Distress Centres’ Suicide Loss Survivor Support Conference. The 4th annual event will be held this year at Oakham House, Ryerson University, Toronto, on November 17.”

Dr. Katy Kamkar, clinical psychologist, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), in Toronto, identifies a series of protective factors as being extremely important to building mental health resiliency. These factors include self-care, exercise, a healthy diet, healthy relationships and social www.mycitylife.ca

www.mycitylife.ca

photo by shutterstock.com

support, achieving our potential, recognizing our strengths, setting a balance and a sense of purpose. “And while protective factors do not make us immune (for instance, getting a flu shot does not guarantee immunity from the flu), built-in protective factors contribute to our first line of defence,” Dr. Kamkar says. “When it comes to mental health, we have noticed a significant improvement in terms of the reduction of stigma. There is, however, room for further improvement and increased conversation.”

Having the blues is a normal part of the human condition.

The distinction between having the blues and being depressed lies in the length of time (that is, weeks and months), that a person is disengaged and not participating in life. Common symptoms of being depressed include increased feelings of anger, anxiety, a sense of hopelessness, difficulties sleeping, feeling out of control, an inability to make decisions, a lack of self-esteem, a reduced interest in activities, difficulty with self-care, and social and occupational functioning, as well as difficulty coping with a variety of stresses — all of which increase the risks for mental health concerns.

And while the stigma around mental health has garnered some improvements in the past decade, there is still significant room for tolerance, ongoing education and open dialogue.

“The stigma around mental health is attached to a lack of understanding and a lack of education,” Dr. Kamkar says. “Do we say to people, ‘Oh, you have a beautiful home or you have a wonderful job, why are you suffering from arthritis?’ Do we say that to people? It is important to understand that asking for help and being strong and resilient are not mutually exclusive.

We talk a lot about stigma, but self-stigma is also important, a situation that often adds layers of blame and shame to our feelings and sense of self.”

The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) has been working on the stigma around mental health issues and ways in which it can be reduced for the past 10 years. The four key groups that the commission is targeting to help remove the stigmatic barriers are: the media, health-care professionals, the workplace and youth. “Stigma in the health-care system is seen as one of the biggest barriers to people getting help,” says Louise Bradley, president and CEO of the MHCC. “There is a thing called structural stigma, which helps explain why we still have policies that are not helping the mental health system in the country. Canada remains one of the lowest spenders of health dollars on mental health of any developed country,” she says.

The recent deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain have people scratching their heads and wondering how, with such wealth and trappings of success, they could feel such hopelessness. “People equate unhappiness with depression, and they are very different phenomena,” Bradley says.

Natalie Harris, a paramedic with the County of Simcoe (she is currently off the road), tried to take her life by suicide three times in 2014. “I describe my depression and [post-traumatic stress disorder] PTSD in four layers. The first layer, I feel a bit off; the second layer, I’m not feeling as well, but I am still

Kate Spade, the iconic designer who created her brand from scratch in 1993, was found in her Manhattan apartment, after taking her own life by suicide on June 5, 2018

meNtal health facts

1 2 3

Each day, 11 canadians take their own life by suicide.

20x as many (9 pEr hour) canadians will attempt suicide each day.

ThE impacTs of suicidE arE far-rEaching. for EvEry dEaTh by suicidE, 25 people are severely devastated and 125 people are directly affected.

4

among ThosE who diE by suicidE, a largE pErcEnTagE has a hisTory of mEnTal hEalTh problEms or illnEssEs, including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and posttraumatic stress disorder (ptsd). sources: 1. statistics canada 2. health reports — statistics canada 3. berman, a. “estimating the population of survivors of suicide: seeking an evidence base.”

4. Weir, e. “suicide: the hidden epidemic.”

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photo by shutterstock.com

Days after the news about Kate Spade broke, Anthony Bourdain, the world-renowned chef and popular tV host, also took his own life by suicide in France, while filming for his show, Parts Unknown

AnytiMe we increAse tHe diAlogue And norMAlize wHAt is going on, feAr is dispelled — Dr. Katy Kamkar

able to function; the third layer, I am not functioning — I am making up stories to say I have the flu or a migraine; the fourth layer is where I was at when I tried to take my life —delusional thinking, with my entire world being completely dark. I was not thinking rationally and my illness was winning,” she says.

“Suicide is not about giving up; rather, I describe it as enemy [No.] 1. I was convinced that people would be better off without me. I even convinced myself that my children [her daughter is now 22, and her son is 12] would be taken care of. There was no second-guessing about taking my own life.”

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serious attempt, however, happened when she was completely sober. Harris was overwhelmed and completely exhausted with battling her night terrors and her insomnia, which was a huge contributing factor. As someone who has experienced the act of attempting to take her own life by suicide, Harris knows her understanding is of significant value to those who are where she has been. “One of the questions we shouldn’t be afraid to ask a person is, ‘Are you thinking of suicide?’ Ask the question, [and] it might save a life. It could be a crisis situation in which first responders need to be involved. Don’t be afraid to activate that level of care because it might save lives.”

Harris, who is no longer a paramedic because the trauma and stressors of the job are triggers for her substance abuse, is the author of two books, including Save-My-Life School: A first responder’s mental health journey (Wintertickle Press, 2017). She is also the founder of Wings of Change – Peer Support.

“Stigma surrounded and suffocated me,” Harris says. “At first, I thought that if I talked it would show that I was weak, that there was something wrong with me. Reach out to someone and tell them, ‘I am not feeling well. I need to talk to someone.’ Just start the dialogue; I promise it will normalize the conversation and make it part of your day.”

When someone shares with us their feelings of desperation, depression and hopelessness, listening and validating the person’s feelings are two of the most important things we can do. “You don’t necessarily need to have the answers,” Harris says.

Things that should not be said include: “shake it off; pull up your socks; forget about it; or snap out of it.” Instead, acknowledge feelings, encourage conversation, offer to help and try to engage the person in positive activities. Honesty and openness are key.

If, as a trusted friend or family member, you have experienced the same emotions, share those feelings. If not, offer your support and assistance in finding appropriate resources.

Dr. Kamkar advises people in distress to reach out — not to suffer in silence. Call 911, go to the nearest emergency department of a hospital or a crisis centre, or talk to a person you trust. Treatment for mental health is tailored to a person’s specific needs and can include evidence-based psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, psychopharmacological treatment and pharmacogenomics.

The MHCC has a wealth of online tools, topics and guidelines on its website that can be accessed, including, Mindset, a set of guidelines developed for and by reporters on how to report deaths by suicide; Roots of Hope, a community suicide prevention project that aims to reduce the impacts of suicide in Canadian communities; Mental Health First Aid; and two toolkits tailored to support people who have been affected by suicide: one for people who have attempted suicide and another for people who have lost someone to suicide.

“We are all somewhere on a [mental health] continuum. I don’t think any of us are 100 per cent mentally well, just as a person with mental health issues is not 100 per cent mentally ill,” Bradley says. www.torontodistresscentre.com/suicide-loss www.camh.ca www.mentalhealthcommission.ca www.wingsofchange.wixsite.com/wingsofchange www.mycitylife.ca

A DV E R TO R I A L

GIANNA UGOLINI

Treat Your Skin Right

Gianna Ugolini introduces RF Skin Tightening and other revolutionary skin-care techniques

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he leading skin-care expert at G.C. & Co. Salon & Med Spa, Gianna Ugolini is always looking for new techniques and treatments to bring her clients the next best thing in skin care. With the recent introduction of the “Sculptural Buccal Lift” facial, Microneedling and RF Skin Tightening, you won’t find this kind of service elsewhere. Using noninvasive tools and her most powerful asset of all, her own hands, Ugolini lifts cheekbones, contours jawlines and brightens up eyes, leaving clients feeling fresh, tightened and toned.

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

Q. What is RF Skin Tightening?

A. Radio frequency (RF) skin tightening is a non-invasive treatment. Energy penetrates the epidermis and dermis, gently heating tissue and stimulating subdermal collagen production. It reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and loose skin, while tightening and rejuvenating with no damage or downtime.

Q. Why do you love Non-Invasive Microneedling?

A. Non-Invasive Microneedling is my favourite tool to date. It creates micro channels that reach the dermis, allowing a tincture that I blend together to work effectively. No bleeding, no downtime, boosts collagen, diminishes fine lines and results are instant.

Q. What are the benefits to treating your skin regularly?

A. The benefit of getting monthly facials is to maintain that healthy glow. One skin cycle is 28 days, so when you come for a facial we slough away dead skin cells With the introduction of RF Skin Tightening, Ugolini has found the last piece of the puzzle.

Now, along with other treatments that focus on muscle tightening and skin rejuvenation, this treatment focuses on tightening the skin itself

www.mycitylife.ca

that make your skin look dull. Regular facials also keep the muscles contoured and lifted.

Q. How can you shrink large pores?

A. Pore-minimizing products are only able to work if the pores are emptied; you can’t shrink a pore if it is filled with oil. Porereduction products used in conjunction with regular facials will allow them to work effectively. Our pore-reduction drops

by DMK work to tighten pores without stripping the skin of natural oils and do not contain astringents, alcohols or abrasives.

Q. What can people do between facials to maintain a healthy glow?

A. Exfoliating is a must in order to keep dead skin cells from building up. If the skin is coated with a layer of dead skin cells, products cannot penetrate. Masking two to three times a week is also essential and my personal favourite! Eminence Organic Skin Care has over 25 masks to help with your skin-care concerns. The right mask will hydrate, remove excess oils, improve the appearance of your pores and pull out impurities.

Q. What advice would you give to people who want to start taking care of their skin?

A. My advice to them would be to come in to have their skin analyzed, so that they know what to use at home. I give them a clean slate, and I send them home with their new skin-care routine. Aside from that, sunscreen is key because sun exposure increases the risk of skin cancer, wrinkles and dark spots, so wearing sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher on a daily basis is essential.

6175 Hwy 7, Unit 7, Woodbridge, Ont. 416-527-1023 www.giannacathy.com @gianna_gcandco Aug/Sept 2018

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With over 30 years of experience in this industry, the Muia family (from left to right: Joe Muia, Mike Muia, Mariangela Muia, Frank Muia and Silvana Muia) will guide and educate you throughout the entire process to ensure you leave happy with a home that you will love for years to come

Love and Respect majestic The of Family is its’ marble Strength in Stone

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or some families, the occasional celebratory event that brings them together can be an enduring test of that often-challenging family dynamic. Imagine then working with your family, day after day, year after year, like the Muia family, owners and operators of Majestic Marble of Concord, the recognized leader for 30 years in superior stones and craftmanship in the importing, manufacturing and installation of the finest dimensional stone from around the world for the residential and commercial markets.

The Muia family story is one of inspiration, cooperation, respect and the value and importance of family relationships. A bold, brash and beautiful

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family which, as testament to its work ethic, have created a company environment in which some of its employees have been with the company since its opening in 1987, and they have each had the beautiful experience of seeing each other’s families grow along the way.

“We have a crazy, big family and we all work together,” says Mariangela Muia, New Business Director, who with her brothers Frank, Vice President, Operations, and Mike, Vice President, Sales, work with their parents and founders of the company, Joe and Silvana Muia.

It was Joe, who upon immigrating to Canada in the 1960’s and beginning a successful brick-layering and construction company with more than 700 employees, had a dream to own a marble and granite

company. This was in the middle of a recession, and Joe and Silvana worked hard and fought through tough times to create a state-of-the-art manufacturing natural stone company.

“Our family reminds each other all the time that good things take time to happen and they do not happen overnight,” says Mariangela Muia. “You need to plant the seed and be patient and nurture it.”

Nurture it they did, growing from two kitchen jobs per week to now doing on average 68 kitchen jobs per week in this fast-paced, constantly changing industry.

Of course, the intense pressure of growing a successful business can put strains on any family dynamic.

“Of course, we have our challenges, but at the end of the day, whether its building

www.mycitylife.ca

photos by carlos a. pinto

Founded in 1987, Majestic Marble has been the go-to retailer for those looking to incorporate dimensional stone within their homes and businesses

houses or installing countertops, our objective is to help one another succeed,” says Mariangela Muia. “Our parents worked very hard to keep us together, so we have a lot of family get togethers. In our time spent with our parents we are learning our family traditions, our values and what keeps a family together. Lots of sacrifices, patience and trust. We also respect each other’s ideas and areas of expertise. These are the values we live by.”

This is the welcoming family atmosphere that is palatable for anyone visiting Majestic Marble for quality stone products to adorn their homes, be it for the beautiful possibilities of luxurious fireplace surrounds, vanities, tables or complete natural stone bathroom and kitchen requirements. While the Muia’s are dedicated to each other and encouraging in their everyday lives, they are equally committed to their business, their products and their customers.

“Our product success is because of the quality we source and supply and superior craftmanship that our customers can count upon,” says Mariangela Muia. “We listen carefully to our clients, have empathy, and are here for them with excellence in customer service. We pride ourselves on our customer relationships and the trust and accountability they can rely upon with their builds or renovations or our designs, as we’re with them every step of the way for years and years. We have customers returning for product for their second or third homes and that makes us very happy as we want our clients to be happy.”

While Majestic Marble may be the name, the company has a full range of the finest different types of stones which have proved most popular for home design, such as granite, onyx, quartzite, travertino, semi-precious, mosaics, quartz and porcelain slabs and the trend towards natural stone that many more clients are beginning to embrace.

For Majestic, its product line is growing because its customer base is growing, a base that includes not just home owners, but builders, designers, decorators and other retailers.

“Our business relationships with our reputable builders and retailers has grown beyond just business but into friendships over these last 30 years,” says Mariangela Muia. “Our involvement goes beyond the day-to-day activities, but a deep involvement in our local Vaughan community.”

It is this local care, commitment and investment that Majestic Marble has extended to its global adventures to source the very best product for its customers. “The majority of our stone is quarried from the mountains of Italy, as well as Brazil, China or other leading suppliers from around the world, but we only deal with manufacturers who share the same company values as Majestic Marble,” says Mariangela Muia. “We buy direct for our clients from site visits to these factories, so we deal directly with the owners to be assured of their technology and that they are finishing the product to our high standards, and we also have inspectors around the world working on our behalf.”

Like the compassion and interest they have in each other, the Muia’s bring this to their customers, as evidenced by Majestic Marble’s commitment to personalized service with its in-home consultations.

These visits give its experts the ability to see and experience the size, technical requirements and environment customers wish to transform with its top-quality stone products.

“Going to a client’s home you get to know their personal space and style,” says Mariangela Muia. “In-home consultations allow us to know our client and you can then educate them about which products and designs may work best for them and

Majestic Marble’s showroom illustrates exactly what this prolific company can do with their quality products and superior craftsmanship

www.mycitylife.ca

the warehouse features hundreds of different kinds of dimensional stones, offering quality products from all over the world that will fit with any idea, colour scheme or design that customers could want

their space. This is a key component of our business.”

Additionally, customers of Majestic can visit its 45,000-square-foot warehouse in Concord, which houses its own finishing process and offers a full range of luxury stone products in more than 300 different colours. Customers can touch and experience first-hand the quality of their chosen stone and the care and craftmanship taken in its manufacturing.

The visits are creatively stimulating and educational for the stone selection process, and teach clients the ongoing maintenance to increase the longevity of their beautiful works of art.

The success of Majestic Marble has been clearly built upon some traits that may have become rare in this day and age: a commitment to family values, loyalty, trust, respect, honesty, and the intangibles that keep a family not only close, but working together as a team for the greater good in serving its customers.

399 Applewood Cres., Concord, Ont. 416-665-4040 www.majesticmarble.ca Aug/Sept 2018

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Lifestyle

in the background during the procedure, I actually believed that Chewbacca was my co-pilot, that my crew consisted of Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker and that our ship was dodging enemy fighters.

Annette Bradshaw is a registered psychotherapist in Toronto, and she fully supports hypnosis as a way to distract children from feeling the pain and anxiety that can be attached to seeing a dentist. “I know a lot of dentists these days have many ways to make kids feel more comfortable and less anxious. But, if a child is terribly anxious about having a filling, braces or some type of painful procedure, I highly recommend hypnosis.”

My daughter Seri was initially terrified about the idea of going to the dentist for her first filling at the age of seven, and I thought about having my father hypnotize her. “I won’t go. They’re going to drill a hole in my head,” she exclaimed. However, my wife showed me the Smile Squad Dental website, and I realized Seri may actually enjoy the experience. The website portrays the whole dental experience to be like some kind of new age Zen spa, The dentist chair has always been an anxious place unlike the Neanderthal conditions I had for kids and adults alike, but thanks to some new to endure back in the 1970s. Children are changes and tactics, going to the dentist can become provided with cool-looking 3D glasses and headphones in order to watch their a much more enjoyable experience WRITTEN BY MYLES SHANE own personal television screen. They can s we came out of hyperspace, the Millennium watch any movie they want because the dentist has iTunes.

Falcon was met by a fleet of TIE fighters. C-3P0 They don’t hear the sounds or barely notice the dentist and the blatantly informed us that the odds of survival grinding Machiavellian tools. were slim to none. The options appeared to be: Dr. Lori Goldenberg, the dentist who founded Smile Squad surrender or die — until I did the unthinkable Dental, wanted to create a positive experience for kids while and steered us into an oncoming asteroid field. That was the at the dentist. Says Dr. Goldenberg: “My dream was to create image from my hypnotic trance. In reality, I was eight years old a space that was fun and inviting for kids of all ages. Smile in a dentist’s office, receiving my first filling for a cavity. A drill Squad Dental is a special place sprinkled with all things kids, was buzzing a hole in my tooth, a bright light shone in my eyes from the indoor playground to the iPad nook, Klubhouse, prize and a suction device was being pushed underneath my tongue, machines, toothpaste menus and Netflix overhead. Children causing me to gag. But none of that fazed me, as I listened to feel comfortable and at home [while] at Smile Squad Dental.”

After interviewing Bradshaw and speaking with my dad’s voice guide me to a galaxy far, far away.

My father, who is a psychiatrist, thought it might be helpful Dr. Goldenberg, it seems hypnosis is still an option for kids to put me under hypnosis because I was terrified of dentists. who are anxious about going to the dentist. But, perhaps with My first memory of the dentist was as a five-year-old biting all of the innovative new age electronic toys dentists now offer, his thumb, with blood squirting everywhere. To this day, I still kids can experience the dentist with SpongeBob onscreen and endure terrible dentist nightmares, and I can’t even have my may not even require hypnosis. I, however, will forever be flying teeth cleaned without nitrous oxide. At eight years of age, my the Millennium Falcon. dad hypnotized me to believe I was in the movie Star Wars, flying Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon. And with his voice guiding me www.smilesquad.ca

PLANET OF THE DENTISTS

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PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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A DV E R TO R I A L

AMADO MAGIC!!!

In addition, you can’t have a great salon without great staff: the people at Amado Salon make it a remarkable place. “The staff plays a huge role. They all have different elements, which makes it a unique relationship between all of us, making it a family, not a team,” says Amado, who looks for special people when someone wants to work at the salon. “I can teach skills, but I can’t teach personality and I can’t teach character, so those are the biggest factors when I’m looking for someone to work with us.”

“Amado means to be loved, and if everyone already likes what we’re doing today, they’re going to love what the future has to hold,” says Amado.

With over 20 years of experience, Robert Amado has seen and done it all. He is the one to trust when it comes to your hair

When you walk through the doors at Amado Salon, you’ll notice the excitement, the allure and the welcoming atmosphere. And when you leave, you’ll be walking out with a brand-new confident you — ready to take on the world with absolutely gorgeous results every time

PHOTOS BY STUDIO 2020 PHOTOGRAPHY

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mado Salon puts a little bit of magic into everything it does. A staple in the Vaughan area for almost 10 years, the salon has built up loyalty because of the care and detail that its staff takes with everyone who comes into the salon. Now it’s better than ever with a new central location — it’s an uptown salon with a downtown feel.

A 20-year veteran in the hair industry and an award-winning stylist and colourist, Robert Amado is passionate about hair.

He knows how important it is to start with the right products, including Goldwell and KMS product lines. “Goldwell develops products to prolong the life of hair colour and to keep the integrity of the hair,” says Amado. “KMS has a unique factor in that they fuse science and nature.”

One thing that Amado gets is the power

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of social media. “Instagram speaks to people through pictures, and customers come in with pictures in their hand … so it kind of links the two worlds together,” he says. Countless 5-star Google reviews like, “Amado Salon is nothing short of top notch — from the team to the service to the final product!” say it all.

Although even some Hollywood celebs are sporting Amado’s work, every client gets star treatment. “Our clients make us who we are,” says Amado. “I treat everyone with respect, dignity and love; there is no other way.” In fact, Amado doesn’t look at his clients as clients, really.

“I’ve made them my friends. I’ve instilled my trust in everyone, and every client knows that I’ll go that extra mile for them — I’ve built relationships that are strong, not just for today, but for years to come,” he adds.

The new location in the heart of up-and-coming downtown Vaughan boasts two beautiful floors that will help Amado Salon develop into the fullservice salon it strives to be

8740 Jane St., Unit 8, Concord, Ont. 905-893-3686 Follow us @amado.salon Visit us at amado.ca Check out Google reviews for Amado Salon Aug/Sept 2018

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This carefully curated selection shows you exactly what you need to see, to read and to have this season

Editor 's Picks

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1. SORELLE: Dainty Delights: Sorelle and Co. www.sorelleandco.com 2. ZARA: Mustard Must-Have: Padded vest with detachable hood www.zara.com/ca 3. HUDSON’S BAY: Poison Pout: NARS X Erdem Strange Flowers Poison Rose Lip Palette www.thebay.com 4. ZARA: Tote-ally Rad: Studded reversible shopper bag www.zara.com/ca 5. ALLORO: Inspiring, Fresh Flavours: Alloro Fine Foods www.allorofinefoods.com 6. WOOLWICH DAIRY: Seasonal Secrets: Campfire Brie using Triple Crème Goat’s Brie from Woolwich Dairy with Grilled Corn Salsa www.foodgays.com 7. ZARA: Spotted Sensation: Draped bodysuit and patterned pants www.zara.com/ca 8. MIRVISH THEATRE: Musical Temptation: Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations www.mirvish.com 9. CUCINA: Culinary Passion: Passione Moda Cucina www.passionemodacucina.com 10. INDIGO: Poetic Vibrance: Rupi Kaur’s the sun and her flowers www.chapters.indigo.ca 11. BENTLEY: Travel in Style: American Tourister luggage www.shopbentley.com 12. HOLT RENFREW: Mist Me: Tom Ford Sole Di Positano All Over Body Spray www.holtrenfrew.com 13. ZARA: Silver Slipper: Glittery vinyl shoes www.zara.com/ca 14. APPLIANCE LOVE: Too Hot to Handle: Smeg Kettle Fixed Temp 50’S Style www.appliancelove.com 15. POLICARO: Premier Experience: Test drive and buy new and used BMWs from Policaro www.policarobmw.ca

PHOTO BY CAROLE LITWIN

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THE LEADER IN TOP-GRAIN LEATHER FURNITURE

Family is an important part of this business, with both Ricciardi’s son and daughter working alongside him. This outlook extends to their customers, as they hope you feel welcome when you enlist their services

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hen you walk into a home, your eye invariably is drawn to the biggest pieces that fill up the space, most likely the comfy couches or big chairs that occupy the living room or family room, which in many ways, make the statement of the homeowners’ personal style.

For the past 30 years, providing this statement has been the fundamental role Boss Leather plays in the homes of so many discerning furniture shoppers across Canada. This family-owned and -operated business has become the recognized leader in the manufacturing and selling of the highest-quality leather furniture. More than just supplying the furniture accents of a home, Boss Leather plays an integral role in shaping its customers’ personal design statements and showcasing how they live.

“We took over a failing leather company because I saw a hole in the market and felt there was an opportunity to fill it with a good-quality product,” says Ralph Ricciardi, president and CEO, in explaining the humble beginnings of Boss

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PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

Boss Leather is your go-to when it comes to purchasing premium leather furniture. With quality, customization and leading-class warranties, you won’t be disappointed

Our philosophy was to build it once, build it right and always listen to what the customer wants

Leather. “Our philosophy was to build it once, build it right and always listen to what the customer wants.”

That simple approach has led to two manufacturing plants, with the largest in Woodbridge, Ont., and an impressive 10,000-square-foot showroom in Bolton, which contains a vast array of pieces for

customers to see, feel and experience the difference that quality top-grain leather makes. That quality is what sets Boss Leather apart in the market.

“Customers should not just look for ‘leather’ in their furniture,” advises Ricciardi. “They need to look for ‘topgrain’ leather or ‘genuine’ leather, as there are a lot of inferior products out there.

They also need the hardwood frame to be kiln dried so that it stays dry, reducing creaking or cracking over time. We have lifetime warranties on our frames because they are hardwood and kiln dried.”

Attention to customer service, a wide selection of innovative designs, the promise of top-grain leather and excellence in manufacturing make Boss Leather the undisputed leader in its field.

!

18 King St. E., Unit A-4, Bolton, Ont. 905-951-8884 www.canadasbossleatherfurniture.com www.mycitylife.ca

Let us cAteR youR Next eveNt Whether you’re looking for catering, quality groceries or simply need to pick up a hot meal on your way home, Alloro Fine Foods has your solution.

Reflecting your appetite or your next event, our chefs will dazzle your taste buds by combining the best ingredients with the freshest local produce. Made in Alloro signature catering will be sure to elevate any occasion with food even your grandmother will love.

20%off

your next purchase when you mention this ad

13305 Hwy. 27, Nobleton AlloroFineFoods.com | 905-859-6868

DISCOVER THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

The Country Day School offers JK-12 in a co-ed, non-denominational environment located on 100 beautiful acres in King.

13415 Dufferin Street, King, ON L7B 1K5 T: 905 833 1972 www.cds.on.ca

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JOIN US AT AN OPEN HOUSE October 13, 10am – 1pm • October 25, 7pm – 9pm Aug/Sept 2018

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Spirits Consistency and quality are crucial to CIRKA in the production of its spirits, as the company wants to provide a product that consumers can trust

CIRKA DISTILLERIES Leaving the high-tech world behind, Paul Cirka moved to Montreal, where he founded his craft spirit distillery, CIRKA. Producing vodka, gin and whisky, its locally sourced ingredients ensure a top-quality spirit that you won’t want to miss WRITTEN BY SHAUN MELADY INTERVIEWED BY VICTORIA SCOTT

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photo by carlos a. pinto

SERVING ITS FINEST ARTISANAL LIQUORS

Using local grains and local botanicals, CIRKA has been able to create craft spirits that embody the surrounding environment through its interesting flavour profiles

photos courtesy of cirka distilleries

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ecently, we took a sip into one of Montreal’s own artisanal spirits producers, CIRKA Distilleries. The Canada-based manufacturer distills a variety of liquors, including vodka, gin and whisky. CIRKA’s spirits are available all throughout Quebec and at select locations in Ontario, Alberta and Nova Scotia.

One of the attributes that caught our eye was the brand’s Terroir craft aspect.

We were able to chat with CIRKA founder and owner, Paul Cirka, about his start in the craft distilling community and the overall distilling process, as well as the “grain-to-bottle” branding.

“I started my professional life in Toronto, as a landscape architect,” says Cirka. “Through that, I really got drawn into the world of computer graphics and special effects. So, I was kind of embroiled in that whole world for about 15 years.

It’s very fast-paced,” he says, “especially at the time that I was involved. It was a pretty hectic time in that kind of software www.mycitylife.ca

manufacturing. So, I actually took time off. I caught my breath and said, ‘You know, I’m going to step back.’ I didn’t go right from high-tech into distilling.”

Our curiosity was piqued as to how he made the leap from architecture to distilling and how it fit into the mould of his creative background.

“I think that I had the luxury of time,” continues Cirka. “It’s part of it I could become comfortable with. It’s a balance between science and art, for sure, which is appealing and sometimes scary because you do know there’s certainly a creative component as you’re developing your brand, the products, certainly your approach to the spirits that you want to make, but there is rigour on it,” he says.

“You do have to embrace the science, and you do have to embrace that side of it. And so it comes easily for some and not so easily for others. Once you go, ‘OK, it’s a new language I need to learn,’ and once you start becoming comfortable with that new language, then you know you can kind of build on that and take off,” says Cirka. “So, yeah, it was a fit.

It certainly fit my personality, and I felt very comfortable quite early on. And then there’s the business side of it. This is a start-up like anything else, right?” he says. “So, you have to look at the market and the business, and you know what’s available and what are the opportunities.”

The company hones in on particular aspects of the distilling process to add a deeper element to the business of being a true craft spirits company. For example, CIRKA’s Vodka Terroir is a 100

per cent local, non-GMO, corn-based product that starts in a column of more than seven metres in height, ensuring that the original flavours are maintained during the distilling process. Following this initial step, the specialists place the vodka through a filtration system to give the alcohol a specific texturized feel for consumer enjoyment.

“Careful distillation allows us to control the balance of f lavour and texture,” says Cirka. “This means we don’t have to rely on aggressive filtering, which removes desirable flavour compounds while you’re trying to get rid of unwanted components.”

This particular liquor, crafted at the CIRKA plant, is 40 per cent alcohol by volume (alc./vol.) in a standard 750 millilitre bottle. The spirit is perfected to have a sweet aroma, a smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a warm finish, with notes of butter, caramel or marshmallow.

CIRKA prides itself on being Montreal’s primary artisanal distillery, meaning that it produces each product from start to finish in-house and in a natural manner. This allows for each spirit to taste exactly how and become exactly what the distillers intended.

You can taste it yourself, thanks to CIRKA’s new distribution with the LCBO. With its Gin Sauvage available exclusively online and its vodka available on the shelf in select locations, you can grab a bottle and enjoy this pure form of craft distilled liquor yourself. www.cirka.ca www.lcbo.com

With tours of the distillery offered yearround and mixology classes offered once a month, you can discover how the spirits are made and then learn interesting ways to use them in cocktails

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profile

e p p a C h Noa

ON THE TASTEFUL

SIDE of the

photos by geoff fitzgerald

ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRy

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When he finds himself in toronto, Cappe loves hitting up food spots like yorkville’s One and the Hogtown vegan

City Life sat down with Noah Cappe, the host of Food Network’s Carnival Eats, to discuss his experience in the entertainment industry and get an inside look at where he spends his time when he’s not on the road

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Written By Shaun Melady intervieWed By victoria Scott

t is time to round up the family, sit tight and be ready to satisfy your appetite with the savoury personality of Carnival Eats host Noah Cappe.

This episodic show is aired on the Food Network and delves into the lives of carnival vendors everywhere. Cappe, the crew and the network travel to various areas around North America to soak in all sorts of familiar, and not-so-familiar, recipes that visitors to fairs and carnivals can taste. These delectable items can range from fried twinkies to Cappe’s own craving for a funnel cake club sandwich.

Interesting concept, right?

To date, Carnival Eats and the energetic qualities of Cappe have been airing for four seasons with no intention of stopping to indulge its audiences worldwide.

We wanted to know if Cappe had always been interested in pursuing a career in the entertainment industry and what his drive was behind starting on this delicious path of being a host for Food Network.

“One hundred per cent. I’m so fortunate that I always wanted to be in this industry. I grew up in a family of eight kids and there were three older and four younger, and as cliché as it is, I think it really was one of those kind of ‘in the middle of the pack, a lot of people, a lot of needs,’ and [so I would] make a joke and do a little dance and get attention in this group and I like[d] the feeling of the reaction that I got,” says Cappe.

“It was at an early age that I learned about comedy and performance and being outgoing and all of [those] things and the great stuff that came with it. So, I fell in love with entertainment at an early age, and always knew that I wanted to be an actor in film and television and have been lucky in that sense.”

Cappe shared that toward the beginning stages of his career, he got to a point where he felt that he was doing a decent portion of hosting and a large dash of acting, and said that it was time to blend the two together to make his mark in the entertainment industry.

Not only does Cappe have recognition from his captivating Carnival Eats show, he has also worked onscreen for Hallmark Channel’s Good Witch, CBC Network’s Being Erica and most recently as the host of The Bachelorette Canada. www.mycitylife.ca

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Cappe values giving back to the community through organizations like the Humane Society and SickKids, and by taking part in initiatives like tim Hortons Camp day

On top of his tasteful life on the show, the 40-year-old Cappe has also recently spiced up his personal life with his newly renovated home. We were able to dip into an inside look at the man off-camera.

“My wife and I moved five times in 10 years. We lived in a condo. We lived in a semi-detached. We lived in a fully detached. We moved way up north and lived in a crazy big house that was too much space. We bounced around the city all over. Different areas. Different sizes. Different structures and [we] never felt that fit. Never felt that ‘feeling,’” Cappe says.

“And then we found this house about five and a half years ago and fell in love with it. The area. The neighbourhood. The fact that we look across at this big open field at a school. You’re not staring out your windows at other houses staring right back [despite being] in the heart of the city, to have that was just an amazing element. So, we fell in love with all of those pieces.”

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da or K CaNa food NetW

I fell in love with entertainment at an early age, and always knew that I wanted to be an actor in film and television

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With outrageous, overthe-top dishes and an energetic host, Carnival eats takes viewers on a wild ride across north America’s fairgrounds

We wanted to know what the next steps were and the reasoning behind the renovations.

“We got to the point where we thought we were ready to start thinking about a family. We’ve started an adoption process. We are about a year into the adoption process and we just got to the point where we were like, ‘This is the house we are going to raise a kid in,’” says Cappe. “We wanted to turn it into our forever space. We wanted a main-floor family room that would be big and open and off the kitchen that you could play and entertain [in]. And a big, beautiful room for the kid with huge windows looking out at a school and other kids playing in a field and just all these elements that it felt like this place, with a few tweaks, would be perfect.”

What an incredible reason to renovate a house. Cappe shares that the “few tweaks” have turned into a nine-month process but he is still eager and excited for the final product.

“We’ve sat in this room [where the interview took place] a few nights and just said, ‘we are just staying in some producer’s house in the Hollywood Hills.’ It’s like some weird place that can’t be ours. It’s so fresh. It’s so new.”

As homeowners and property owners, people tend to gravitate toward a particular description of their homes, like modern architectural feel. Art deco. Rustic and traditional.

We wanted to know what Cappe’s descriptor was and we were pleased with the whimsical, yet endearing answer he provided.

“It’s a reflection of us. It’s fun. It’s simple but powerful,” says Cappe while acknowledging his answer in a playful manner. www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/carnival-eats Watch the behind-the-scenes video was @noahcappe shot with an iPhone www.mycitylife.ca

A DV E R TO R I A L

Dominion’s dedicated staff ensures each project is completed with care and precision, no matter how small or large it may be

Quality Product for a

Quality-Driven Market

Prioritizing quality products and the customer experience, Dominion Doors & Windows has remained the one to beat since its foundation over 30 years ago

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

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avvy homeowners who take the time to consider the look of their front door and make an additional investment into it realize this single design feature is the first impression guests have of their home — and whatever style may be revealed upon its opening. Similar attention given to windows is equally important, but in a more practical way, to ensure an airtight seal that conserves energy use.

When homeowners, architects, designers and contractors are looking for the highest quality in manufacturing and materials, design and one-on-one customer service, they most often turn to Dominion Doors & Windows, located in the heart of Woodbridge at 130 Pennsylvania Ave., in Concord, Ont. Bill Pappas is the general manager of this second-generation family-owned and -operated business, which was started by his father, Sam Pappas, upon immigrating to Canada in the 1970s. “I worked in the

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We don’t cut corners — we want quality materials that will last 20 to 30 years — Bill Pappas

shop from the ground up,” recalls Bill Pappas. “I appreciated the business, the labour and working with people, and I wanted to take it to the next level and modernize it.”

Bill Pappas has certainly done that, as Dominion is now the recognized leader in its category, with a 15,000-square-foot manufacturing plant in Woodbridge staffed with a skilled, experienced and growing workforce manufacturing the highest-end window and door products.

“We are known as an honest company, as we’ve been around for decades and have a very good track record,” says Bill proudly. “We use probably the best materials on the market right now, as we want a quality feel. Even though our customers are now Canada-wide, most of our product is local, as we support our local Vaughan community. And we don’t cut corners — we want quality materials that will last 20 to 30 years.”

Dominion works directly with homeowners, general contractors, designers and architects, and its varied market includes custom homes, condominiums, commercial buildings and the renovation market in replacing windows and doors in older buildings. Its reputation has been built on not only the quality of its product and manufacturing, but also on its customer relationships.

130 Pennsylvania Ave., Unit 8, Concord, Ont. 905-761-9722 www.dominiondw.com Aug/Sept 2018

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y r r e Sh s e m l Ho S e d a r t e H t g Framin y a w w e in a n

Women represent only 4.5 per cent of the skilled trades’ labour force.

Sherry Holmes, a two-time Women Build Ambassador for Habitat for Humanity GTA, is an influencer who is working to change this statistic Written By cece m. scott | intervieWed By victoria scott photography By carlos a. pinto

herry Holmes is a force in her own right.

As an expert renovator, framer and exceptional tiler, this two-time (2017 and 2018) Women Build Ambassador for Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area (Habitat GTA), has made a name for herself in the contracting world. On top of that (if the name didn’t give it away), she is the daughter of Mike Holmes, professional contractor, influencer and reality television host of shows such as Holmes on Homes and Holmes: Next Generation (2018). In the current show, both Sherry and her brother, Mike Jr., share their ideas and viewpoints with their dad, in order to rescue homeowners from DIY projects gone awry. Though this is her first major foray into the spotlight, she has been working in this industry for a decade.

Holmes spent a lot of her childhood hanging around job sites with her dad. “As I got older, I helped my dad around the house, and we’d do a lot of little things and work together. He 40

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tried to get me to join his crew a few times, but I never actually considered the trades as a career path,” Holmes says. “Years ago, the trades had a bad name. But my dad taught me so much, and [he] was really the driving force that got me interested in pursuing a career in the trades. Without his influence and direction, I definitely would not have done it.”

There are many things that Holmes’s dad has helped her with, including the skill of measuring. “I failed mathematics in school,” Holmes says with a laugh. “So my dad taught me how to measure things.”

When Holmes was in high school, she wanted to take a tech course and try some hands-on construction work. But in order to do that, she had to take a half semester of home economics, which entailed learning how to cook and run a household. “I even had an auto-body mechanic teacher in my high school tell me that he wanted me in his course, but I didn’t take it because I was too afraid. I would have been the only girl in the class,” she says. www.mycitylife.ca

Following in her dad’s footsteps, Holmes has taken the contracting world by storm, celebrating 10 years in this industry

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Holmes acts as a role model for women and youth alike who are interested in getting jobs in the trades, illustrating that it is not the stereotypic work environment that people may think

women See me involved in tHe tradeS , and tHey realize tHat tHey can do it , too. one woman can create an army oF women — Sherry Holmes

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photo courtesy of the holmes Group

It is a situation with a lot of irony attached. Recently, Holmes being judged by her male peers. However, instead of being worked with five women in Etobicoke, Ont., at an all-female intimidated, Holmes’s approach was to work twice as hard, to auto-body repair shop, sanding, fixing and painting. “And I dispel any doubts. “We need to build respect for ourselves,” don’t know a thing about cars,” she says. “It is that women she says. “As women, we need to put our heads down and are no longer afraid to say what they do for a living (vis-à-vis do everything we can to show that we are willing to learn. If the trades), which has been a huge contributing factor toward someone thinks I can’t do it — look out — and watch me do it acceptance. Women are saying, ‘This is what I want to do, so better than that person can. If you are too afraid to try things, don’t judge me on it.’ Unfortunately, people are judgmental, it is really going to stall your career.” but it is definitely getting better.”

Women are a particularly great fit for the trades, Holmes Starting out in the trades, Holmes faced some challenges, believes, because they are detail oriented and sharp with tasks including the fact that men tended to dismiss her as just a young such as trim work. “Women tend to like things to look perfect,” girl running around the job site. “When you get to the job site, she says. you may not know what you’re doing, but it’s the way you present, Finding a mentor, whether it be family, someone involved the way that you work, that matters,” Holmes says. “And certainly, in the trades or a guidance counsellor, is a good starting point huge changes have been made as far as accepting women into for women who want to pursue a career in the trades. An the trades. I’ve met women plumbers, electricians and welders; understanding of interests, capabilities and skills is key to I believe that women are really coming into their own.” understanding what competencies are the best match for each Although she had been working alongside her dad for trade. “Lots of people are willing to mentor and work with youth years, Holmes’s journey into this industry was kick-started 10 and women,” Holmes says. “It’s time for women to just do it.” years ago, when she was 21, after she joined her dad and his Rhonda Barnet, president and COO, Steelworks Design, as team in New Orleans to build It’s a family affair on Holmes: Next Generation, where well as chair, National Board, a house in the lower ninth Sherry, her father, Mike (left), and her brother, Mike Jr. Canadian Manufacturers & ward for one of the victims of work together to help homeowners Exporters (CME), states that Hurricane Katrina. The whole while women comprise 48 per experience was filmed and cent of the labour force, they became the Gemini awardrepresent only 4.5 per cent of winning show Holmes in New the skilled trades’ labour force.

Orleans. “My dad and one of In the manufacturing sector, the vice-presidents sat me women make up 28 per cent of down and told me that this the sector, a percentage that has was my chance to help another remained flat since the 1980s.1 family, to experience what the Barnet is a science, family was going through, to technology, engineering and see everything the family had mathematics (STEM) graduate. lost and, in the end, to make She holds a bachelor of science a difference in someone’s life,” in mathematics and computer Holmes says. “I was the only girl on the [job] site, working with science from Trent University. Barnet’s career as a mathematical a bunch of men, and I was scared to death. I did not want to analyst is one held by less than five per cent of women in embarrass myself. When I saw the look on some of the people’s Canada. “In the past, women were not going into the trades faces we had helped, and [I] realized that we were able to give because of the culture and society’s perception of what the jobs them something that they couldn’t have had without our help, entailed — basically, that those jobs were for men,” she says.

I was hooked. I think I lost about 15 pounds in sweat in two Women and STEM: Bridging the Divide, released by TD months. And by the time we were finished, some of the other Economics in September 2017, focuses on how far women have crews tried to poach me away from my dad.” come in the STEM fields. Report findings include the fact that Holmes’s role on Holmes: Next Generation has been a positive one in five people graduating from a university engineering influence on both women and young people. In fact, over the program is a woman (on par with statistics from 10 years ago). last few years, Holmes has realized that her voice is being heard, And one in four people graduating with computer science and her visible role as a tradeswoman is making a difference for and math degrees is a woman (a statistic that is lower than women. Often, when she is working at home shows, Holmes 20 years ago). is approached by women both asking for help and advice, and In order to change these negative and deeply dated by women who show her their certificates and achievements. perceptions around what was once a chauvinistic culture in “Women see me involved in the trades, and they realize that the manufacturing sector, CME has launched several initiatives they can do it, too,” Holmes says. “One woman can create an such as Open Doors – Youth Awareness Program, a project that army of women.” introduces young people and women to the seismic changes And while learning the trades can be difficult for both men that have taken place in manufacturing, including career options and women, being on the job site does have its own particular and job diversity. CME is also running a fall campaign titled set of challenges for women. Initially, when Holmes was on- We’re In, with the goal of increasing the number of manufacturing site, she would question if she belonged there, or if she was jobs that women hold by five per cent. www.mycitylife.ca

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Holmes values supporting the trades through events like Jill of All Trades and educating individuals on what they are capable of

i believe tHat women are really coming into tHeir own — Sherry Holmes

Learning the fundamentals of the trades before apprenticing in the field is an important leg-up for those seeking paid apprenticeships. In 2015, 66 women (4.3 per cent) enrolled as machinists, versus 1,545 men. In the sheet metal trade, 54 women (3.7 per cent) were registered, versus 1,476 men. Preapprenticeship programs, offered at colleges such as Skilled Trades College (in Vaughan and Mississauga, Ont.), provide hands-on training in a simulated construction environment.

Tony Martella, campus dean of Skilled Trades College, Vaughan Campus, states that the college had considered running womenonly trades classes. “But women told us that they did not want to be in a class of all women,” Martella says. “They want to learn in a real-time environment.” Over the last three years, Martella estimates that out of 800 students who attended the college, approximately 12–15 were women.

Stephanie Brown, who went through the 12-week electrician pre-apprenticeship course at Skills Trade College, is now in her second year of a five-year electrical apprenticeship. At the college, Brown was one of three girls in a class of 14. “The first day of class might have been a shock for the guys, to see not just one girl, but three of us,” she says. “I was definitely intimidated that first day, shaking in my boots. But the teacher was fantastic.”

And while the men in the class might have been a bit skeptical at first, Brown quickly dispelled any negativity by showing everyone exactly what she could do. “I poured myself into it,” 44

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she says. “I came home every day, read the electrical code book and gave it my all. Once my male peers saw that I was kicking their butts, they thought they’d better step it up. It’s almost like we have to jump over bigger hurdles because we are women.”

Brown, who graduated at the top of her class, now works for TAM Electric, doing electrical rough-in and finishing work at a large subdivision job site in Oshawa, Ont. “I studied photography, as well as business, at college, but it wasn’t for me,” she says. “I did not want to sit at a desk all day; it was not mentally or physically stimulating enough for me. I picked electrical because it’s a very technical trade with a lot of math involved, which I am good at.”

Brown advises women who are considering a career in the trades not to be afraid. “It is not just a man’s world; we can absolutely do this, too,” she says. “Women can bring a different angle — a different perspective — to the job site.”

Holmes, Barnet, Brown and Martella concur that perceptions around careers in manufacturing and skilled trades have done a 180. Not only are women being welcomed into the manufacturing and trades sectors, but they are also actively being recruited to apply their much-needed and highly valued skills, talents and intuitive viewpoints.

CME held the first (of a planned annual event) Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Success Forum on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2018.2 The forum’s intent is to bridge the gender gap in the manufacturing labour force. “Diversity in the manufacturing workforce is critical to the strength of the sector,” Barnet says.

“Manufacturing offers lucrative careers for women, but only a small proportion of women (less than six per cent) choose that path.” The 2018 forum was sold out, at 75 attendees. The 2019 WIM goal is to attract 700 attendees.

“It is time to move the dial,” Barnet says. “We need and want more people coming through our doors.”

Holmes works with organizations such as Skills Canada, supporting events that include the National Skilled Trades and Technology Week. The event’s purpose is to create awareness, for both men and women, around the viable career options in the skilled trades and technology areas across Canada.

With the intent of changing perceptions around the trades industry, Skilled Trades conducted a Skilled Trades and Apprentice Awareness and Perception Study.3 The study addressed the need to change negative perceptions and promote skilled trades as a first career to young Canadians.

“Things have changed dramatically,” Barnet says. “Jobs in the trades are now collaborative and technologically advanced. Wages are on par, especially in the skilled trades and STEM careers.

There are very strict pay scales, which dissipate gender bias and wage gaps. It is a collaborative environment for both genders.”

Holmes agrees that there is now much more opportunity for women in the skilled trades sector. “Women working in the trades are making a significant difference in gender equality, as careers in the trades become more and more accessible to them,” she says. “My advice, overall, is to just make sure you love what you do, and you will never work a day in your life.

Always be passionate and thankful, and work as hard as you can. Staying stimulated and learning is really important,” she says. “My dad told me that happiness is a choice, and I think www.mycitylife.ca

that’s true about anything in life. We make our own decisions around being a better person and being happy. If we bring that to the workplace, it makes a huge difference. We need people in the trades, and that includes women.”

From Day 1, the most important thing that Holmes learned is that the harder she worked, the more she learned what she was good at. Instead of taking lunches, Holmes worked — and worked and worked. “I was afraid people would judge me, so I worked as hard as I could,” she says. “It is still my mindset today. My career is a choice, and as a part of that, I want to be able to respect myself at the end of every day.”

With the baby boomers in the throes of retiring, there is going to be a huge deficiency in skilled trades. Holmes stresses the importance of getting both youth and women involved and educating them on the fact that the skilled trades are viable career options. “Old perceptions are no longer the norm,” Holmes says.

“I think that the ignorance and perceptions around the trades stems from old Hollywood images, things like plumber’s crack.

There used to be a lot of judgment around being in the trades, (that is, no education required), but we are working hard on changing that perception right across the board.”

photo courtesy of Zeina homes

The Holmes team works from start to finish, ensuring the homes they create are ideal and fit with what homeowners want

While Holmes says that she used to be automatically judged for being a tradesperson, she now sees a sea change happening.

And while she did not initially think that she was representing women as a whole, Holmes now realizes that she has to take responsibility, so that tradespeople, regardless of their gender, have someone to identify with. “The more you talk about your experiences, the more people engage. It does make a difference,” she says. “People need someone to look to, to identify with. I want to help people better themselves. If someone wants to work in the trades, I am thrilled to help them. My advice to aspiring tradespeople is to be open-minded, to try everything.

Keep pushing, keep trying.”

Holmes loves to travel and has Chile, the Philippines and Malta on her bucket list. “I like to experience things that are off the beaten path,” she says.

This philosophy is an apt metaphor for Holmes’s life, which she lives with gusto, passion and the courage to try new things. www.diynetwork.com @sherryholmes sources: 1. Global news 2. cme/mec 3. canadian apprenticeship forum

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A DV E R TO R I A L

From left: Maurizio Mazzolo, the regional manager of customer experience retail, Donald Kaye, the director of customer experience, and Matt Appleton, the manager of CAA’s Vaughan store, at CAA’s new location in Vaughan

With a new store in Vaughan, CAA has become more accessible to its customers, changing what it means to be a member

THE CANADIAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION

BENEFITS, PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR EVERY STAGE OF LIFE

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www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTOS BY CARLOS A. PINTO

T

he dictionary defines “trust” as “the firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability or strength of someone or something.” This, not surprisingly, also perfectly describes Canadians’ opinion of the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), which a recent survey declared Canada’s “Most Trusted Brand.”

Most telling about this survey is what it says about Canadian consumers and how they value CAA. One of the largest consumer-based organizations in the country, CAA focuses on the safety of its members. It provides services and products that improve its customers’ lives, all of which are available at its newest store now open in Vaughan, featuring discounted attraction and movie tickets, home goods, travel accessories, and safety and automotive products.

Close to 20 per cent of Canadians, or more than six million people, are members of CAA and experience the benefits, and the sense of liberation, comfort and confidence having a CAA card in their wallet provides. Historically, this has been delivered by CAA’s famous roadside assistance, which last year totalled 1.2 million answered calls in South Central Ontario to assist members in distress on the side of the road.

But as explained by Donald Kaye, CAA’s director of customer experience, CAA is much more than tow trucks on the roadside. In fact, it also leads in many other services away from the road that help members navigate life’s journeys.

After all, while advocacy for motorists and road safety has been a deep-seeded cornerstone of its heritage for 115 years, the company has always provided members with a sense of belonging within and throughout their communities.

“Roadside assistance is how we started as an organization in the early 1900s and is our mission,” says Kaye. “We’re a caring and compassionate company obsessed with member safety, and every time you

This latest location features a new look, with a fireplace and comfy sofa chairs, giving you a living room feel. This format has been implemented in a few other locations to date, making people feel more relaxed when they enter the store

see a tow truck, you know it’s going to rescue someone in distress. And that part of our business is not-for-profit. There, we just need to do what is right, not for profit — in people’s time of need. Our members can feel secure knowing we’re going to take care of them on the road.”

But it is away from the road where CAA is growing the fastest, and organically, through value-added services that make sense and fit with its members. These include its full-service travel agency, which it has operated for more than 55 years, and the home, auto and travel insurance business, as well as life, health and dental insurance. In every way, CAA is a company that takes care of its members and makes good on its tag line “Making Bad Days Good. And Good Days Better.”

“Our services cover the life cycle,” says Kaye. “When a young adult buys their first car, a parent may buy them a CAA membership, and they’ll need auto insurance. We then have tenant and condo insurance, as that person moves away from home, and when they can afford a home, they turn to us for home and property insurance. Canadians know they are constantly covered by CAA, and these service extensions are natural for us, as they all continue our mission of safety for our customers.”

For CAA members, membership is something they can benefit from in everyday ways, around the corner or across North America. The many benefits and services are all added-value because of the discounts they can enjoy and the knowledgeable and friendly one-on-one service they receive from agents in the

www.mycitylife.ca

“

Our services and businesses are lifestyle businesses, and we like tO help Our members achieve their dreams, either here at hOme Or while travelling

”

travel or insurance businesses, to either plan the trip of a lifetime or understand the best type of insurance and amount of coverage they need.

There are also the multiple rewards through the CAA Rewards program available either in stores or online through the hundreds of partnerships CAA has developed with other great companies and brands where members may shop, eat or play. These include Cara restaurants such as Milestones, Montana’s, Kelsey’s, Swiss Chalet, and Harvey’s, as well as Cineplex, Canada’s Wonderland, Disney and Universal, and even Mirvish Productions.

“We are always looking for how we can bring more value to our members through the partnerships we develop beyond the roadside,” says Kaye.

Members in the Vaughan area can now visit its 35th retail store to shop in comfort for the full range of the CAA’s many products and services — the newly opened CAA Vaughan is located at 16 Famous Ave., just west of the interchange of Hwy 400 and Hwy 7. While CAA stores offer

member-exclusive pricing, its products and services are available to all. For consumers who are not already CAA members, many quickly realize how much they can save on CAA products and services, and through its Reward Partners. They also realize how those savings can quickly add up to offset the cost of a membership.

“We’re here in Vaughan because our members told us to be here,” says Kaye.

“This is an incredibly fast-growing area, and Vaughan members were having to travel elsewhere. Because of the growth and size, we’re now right at the centre of where everybody in Vaughan goes, which allows us to build relationships with our customers. This store will also contribute and donate back to the community.”, he says.

“What separates CAA from other companies is that we are a member- and purpose-driven company,” says Kaye.

“This is our North Star. Our services and businesses are lifestyle businesses, and we like to help our members achieve their dreams, either here at home or while travelling. This is the new, constantly evolving and innovating CAA, but it remains a company which has always done, and will continue to do, the right things, in the right way, for its members.”

CAA Vaughan 16 Famous Ave., Vaughan, Ont. 289-371-1022 www.caasco.com Aug/Sept 2018

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With the summer in full swing, the city is alive with events, restaurants and festivals you won�t want to miss city changes

scotiabank arena

▶ ontario Place Spanning the summer months, Ontario Place will be offering activities for all ages. You can watch a performance in Trillium Park, go skating on the outdoor synthetic rink, squeeze in a game of pingpong or watch an IMAX movie at the Cinesphere.

With free admission, you can do all that and more this summer. www.ontarioplace.com

nobu toronto

▲ scotiabank arena The Air Canada Centre (ACC) is getting a new name, thanks to Scotiabank. After having sold the naming rights for the ACC and making a 20year deal with Scotiabank, this iconic Toronto sporting arena, will be renamed the Scotiabank Arena, as of July 1. www.scotiabankarena.com ▶ mirvish exPress Get ready to hop on the Mirvish Express. This luxury coach transportation, launching in July, will give direct access to those attending Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday matinee performances at the Royal Alexandra, Princess of Wales, Ed Mirvish and Elgin Theatres. This service will be offered from London, Woodstock, Kitchener, Morriston and Milton, Ont. www.mirvish.com

▲ nobu residences/hotel/restaurant It won’t be long until Torontonians can revel in the Nobu lifestyle. With residences, a hotel and a new location of the renowned Nobu Restaurant under construction, Nobu Toronto is on its way.

Located in Toronto’s Entertainment District, this iconic spot will soon be transformed by the revolutionary project. www.nobuhotels.com ▶ taglialatella galleries Taglialatella Galleries, a New York-based brand, is expanding its reach over into Canada with a new location in Yorkville. Renowned for its displays of pop and street art, the gallery is here to show Toronto all that and more. Opening in June, Taglialatella is going above and beyond the typical gallery experience with fine art and entertainment for all. www.taglialatellagalleries.com

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▶ mcmichael art bus Escape to the McMichael Canadian Art Collection this summer by hopping on board the McMichael Art Bus. Offered each Sunday, from June 10 to Oct. 28, this service heads out at 10:30 a.m. and returns from the McMichael at 3:30 p.m., giving you the entire day to appreciate what this art gallery and its grounds have to offer. www.mcmichael.com ▼ the meadoway Over the next seven years, the city will be transforming 16 kilometres of land in a power corridor into a linear urban park, soon to be one the meadoway

of Canada’s largest. Spanning from downtown Toronto all the way to Rouge National Urban Park, this revolutionary idea will not only support nature, but it will also foster connections within 34 neighbourhoods. www.themeadoway.ca ▶ the toronto island guide Exploring Toronto Island has become simpler, all thanks to its new app, The Toronto Island Guide.

This app will help you plan your trip and provide tips on what to do to make sure you get the most out of your day at this iconic Toronto spot. www.torontoisland.guide ▶ the museum of contemPorary art Sept. 22 marks the reopening of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Toronto. With its new location in the Tower Automotive Building, this 55,000-square-foot space will be used to communicate the museum’s mission to stay relevant to our times by displaying and supporting art that will address prevalent issues in society. www.museumofcontemporaryart.ca ▶ scarborough bluffs The Scarborough Bluffs are one of Toronto’s most scenic locations, and this summer they’re even easier to get to. The TTC has implemented a new service, the 175 Bluffer’s Park bus, available every 15 minutes and running between Kennedy Station and Bluffer’s Park Beach. Take advantage of this route while you can, as it will only run until Oct. 6. www.trca.ca

restaurants ▶ kōjin Momofuku has branched out with its new restaurant, Kōjin. Opened in June, this restaurant features dishes with various culinary influences, including features from Japanese and Latin cuisines. With a diversified menu, Kōjin fits in perfectly with Toronto’s makeup. kojin.momofuku.com

www.mycitylife.ca

texts by victoria scott

▶ museum of illusions Offering up an experience like no other, this museum will be opening its first location in Canada. Visitors will be enchanted by the optical illusions and installations as they focus on the concept of fun. Make sure you keep your eye out for its grand opening later this summer. www.museumofillusions.ca

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the Parlour

hotels ▼ hotel x This resort-style hotel has made its home in Ontario’s Exhibition Place. With a breathtaking view of the waterfront and incredible amenities — and with more on the way — you don’t want to miss your chance to experience this luxury location. www.hotelxtoronto.com

▲ the Parlour Originating in Vancouver, the Parlour has made its way to Toronto with its new location at 642 King St. W. Hoping to open in the coming months, this stylish yet laidback spot will be sure to please with specialty cocktails, craft-brewed beers, excellent wines and an inventive menu that has placed an innovative twist on authentic comfort food. www.theparlourrestaurants.com ▶ sofia With an enhanced interpretation of Italian cuisine, Sofia has become a destination you don’t want to miss. With quality ingredients, it hits the mark on what Italian cooking should look and taste like. Executive chef Christine Mast’s Italian heritage guides her to create innovative dishes that please. www.sofiayorkville.com ▶ Quetzal If you’re looking for the next trendy destination, Quetzal, located at 419 College St., is sure to be it. Opening later this year, this Mexican-inspired locale will focus on fire-cooked dishes, with woodburning ovens and an awe-inspiring 28-foot-long open flame running the length of the restaurant. @quetzaltoronto ▶ the roof at soco What meal isn’t better when paired with a great view? The Roof at SOCO can give you both.

Enjoy incredible views of the Toronto skyline paired with anything from shareable plates to seasonal cocktails. Open all summer long, from May to October, you won’t want to miss this rooftop experience. www.socokitchenandbar.ca ▶ chotto matte Opening up later this year, Chotto Matte will exceed all your expectations. The JapanesePeruvian fusion style it is known for, referred to as Nikkei cuisine, will enthrall you with vibrant natural colours and mouth-watering dishes. With a contemporary urban design and great cuisine focusing on quality ingredients and flavours, you won’t be disappointed. www.chotto-matte.com ▶ don alfonso 1890 Liberty Entertainment Group is bringing the flavours of the Amalfi Coast to Toronto, thanks to a partnership with Michelin-star-awarded Don Alfonso 1890. This internationally acclaimed

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restaurant will be opening its first location in North America in the Rosewater Room on June 20. www.donalfonsotoronto.com ▶ fat choi Toronto’s Malaysian street food restaurant, Soos, has opened its vegan counterpart, Fat Choi. Serving up a 100 per cent plant-based menu, vegans and vegetarians can get all the comforting Asian eats they could ever want at this new spot. Currently sharing its location with Soos at 94 Lower Ossington Ave., Fat Choi is only open Mondays and Tuesdays, but keep your eye out for its own location in the future. www.fatchoito.com ▶ buca Buca, one of Toronto’s premium Italian restaurants, is opening up two new locations later this year. The first near Yonge and Eglinton will be similar to the Bar Buca location with a casual menu, whereas the location at Yonge and St. Clair is featuring a new concept. With Buca’s impeccable reputation and focus on locally sourced, quality ingredients, we can only imagine what’s to come for these two locations. www.buca.ca ▶ virtuous Pie Who’s ready for pizza and ice cream? What about 100 per cent plant-based pizza and ice cream?

Virtuous Pie will be offering just that. Opening soon at 611 College St., this elevated fast-casual spot will be offering up its incredibly original handcrafted products to all. www.virtuouspie.com

hotel x ▶ st. regis residences Undergoing an incredible renovation, the Adelaide Hotel is soon to become the first St. Regis Hotel in Canada. Minutes from downtown Toronto’s hot spots, this is a premium location. If you want a glimpse into the future of this glamorous hotel, you can also check out the St. Regis residences that are now on offer. www.adelaidehoteltoronto.com www.311baystreet.com ▶ sPa at four seasons After undergoing a renovation, this spa will draw you in with its beautiful décor, making you feel at ease. The dedicated and highly trained staff will work to have your stress melt away, thanks to the vast array of treatments on offer. www.fourseasons.com

kimPton saint george

▶ madrina From the makers of El Catrin and Cluny comes a new Spanish tapas bar, Madrina. Located in Toronto’s Distillery District, this new restaurant should be opening by the end of June. With sangria, aperitivos and delectable dishes featured on the restaurant’s Instagram, we can’t wait to see what is yet to come for Madrina. @madrina.to

▲ kimPton saint george Opening just in time for the summer, the Kimpton Saint George has made its home in Toronto’s trendy Annex neighbourhood. Channelling the bohemian energy of the Annex and the chic influences from Yorkville, this boutique hotel is the place to relax and take in the true spirit of Toronto. www.kimptonsaintgeorge.com

▶ oliver & bonacini hosPitality Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality is embarking on an additional project with a new restaurant, Parcheggio. Opening at Bayview Village Shopping Centre during the summer, the menu will feature dishes ranging from handmade pasta, to antipasti, to steaks and even seafood. www.oliverbonacini.com

▶ fairmont royal york hotel The Fairmont is kicking the summer off right with the launch of an exclusive gin, created using products from its rooftop garden. You can taste it yourself on the hotel’s rooftop patio, or at any of its restaurants, lounges or bars. Come out and try it in one of Fairmont’s signature cocktails. www.fairmont.com

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Performing arts/ shows MaMMa Mia!

▲ MaMMa Mia! The smash-hit musical Mamma Mia! is back in Toronto at the Ed Mirvish Theatre this summer.

From Aug. 9 to 19, this summer, dance along in your seat to ABBA’s timeless hits as you enjoy this feel-good show set on a Greek island paradise. www.mirvish.com/shows/mamma-mia ▶ CoMe FroM aWaY Come From Away is back. This wildly popular play documenting a remarkable true story from Newfoundland filled with camaraderie and generosity has been re-extended until April 2019. Currently playing at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, it will be transferred to the Elgin Theatre in February 2019 until its last date in April. www.mirvish.com/shows/come-from-away ▶ the second city With a busy summer in store, the Second City is putting on two shows for audiences in Toronto.

The Best is Yet to Come Undone, playing until Sept. 9, tackles the clichés and revelations of our generation; and a new show, Hogtown Heatwave, is playing until Sept. 3. These original shows are sure to have you begging for more. www.secondcity.com

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Aug/Sept 2018

▶ tHe KiNG aND i From July 10 to Aug. 12, 2018, experience one of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s finest works, The King and I, at the Princess of Wales Theatre. This enchanting story will have you transported back in time. www.mirvish.com/shows/the-king-and-i ▶ the toronto symPhony orchestra One of Canada’s cultural institutions, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) will be hosting numerous events during the summer.

Committed to excellence, the TSO will be putting on the best of the best, including a free concert, Thank You, Toronto, and even Christopher Plummer’s Symphonic Shakespeare with narrator Christopher Plummer. www.tso.ca ▶ casa loma Casa Loma has just added two new shows to its summer lineup. From June 18 to Aug. 27, a musical event Soul in the City will be hosted on Monday evenings, featuring Sean Jones, a seven-piece band and other special guests. As well as that, through a partnership with Just for Laughs Comedy, the venue will host live comedy performances on Wednesday evenings, from July 25 to Aug. 29. www.casaloma.ca ▶ shakesPeare in high Park Celebrating its 36th season, Shakespeare in High Park will be presenting two adaptations of the Bard’s well-known works: the tragic Romeo and Juliet, and the comedy that is A Midsummer Night’s Dream. These tales of rebellion and love will whisk you away on an inspiring adventure. www.canadianstage.com ▶ the sony centre The Sony Centre for the Performing Arts has made its mark on the cultural life of Toronto for over 50

years. Offering remarkable entertainment, this soft-seat theatre with 3,191 seats hosts a variety of dynamic shows. This summer, some notable shows include David Blaine Live and acts from the TD Toronto Jazz Festival. www.sonycentre.ca

exhibits & attractions

the art of banksy

▲ tHe art oF BaNKsY exhibit Banksy, the anonymous artist, has become wellknown around the world due to his controversial pieces. For a limited time, 80 original pieces totalling $35-million in value, have been brought together in an exhibition in Toronto, running from June 13 to Aug. 19, 2018. The Art of Banksy is the largest collection of its kind, so be sure to check it out before time runs out. www.banksyexhibit.com ▶ cn tower’s lookout level With a newly renovated observation level, the CN Tower will be introducing the LookOut Level.

Consisting of two new floor-to-ceiling panoramic Window Walls, this revamped area will introduce even more spectacular views. Open to the public on June 26, the space can even be rented out to groups of up to 500 people. www.cntower.ca ▶ rom The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is introducing two new exhibitions this summer. From June 2 to Oct. 8, 2018, you can attend Iris van Herpen:

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Transforming Fashion and experience original designs from the Dutch designer’s collections from 2008–15. As well, the museum will be introducing “Spiders: Fear & Fascination” on June 16. The ROM wants you to see spiders in a new light thanks to hundreds of specimens and new experiences. www.rom.on.ca ▶ ago The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) will be opening its refreshed installation focusing on Indigenous and Inuit collections on July 1, called the J.S. McLean Centre for Indigenous and Canadian Art. This re-envisioning comes with two new exhibitions: Rebecca Belmore: Facing the Monumental and Tunirrusiangit: Kenojuak Ashevak and Tim Pitsiulak. Belmore works along the borders between art and politics, while Ashevak and Pitsiulak are some of Inuit art’s biggest names. www.ago.ca ▶ canada’s wonderland’s lumberjack Canada’s Wonderland invites you to come check out its newest ride, Lumberjack. Step right up and take a seat on the swinging axe pendulum, taking you on a 360-degree, foot-dangling, heart-racing ride. Reaching heights of 75 feet, Lumberjack will make you feel like you’re on an inverted coaster loop. www.canadaswonderland.com ▶ riPley’s Curious Creatures For a limited time you can travel through the life of Robert Ripley, the iconic Believe It Or Not! cartoonist, explorer, reporter, adventurer and collector, at Ripley’s Aquarium’s new exhibit, Curious Creatures. Through this exhibit you’ll travel from sea to sea and come face-to-face with interesting and extraordinary creatures and artifacts that Ripley discovered too. www.ripleyaquariums.com

jaPan festival canada ▶ hockey hall of fame Expanding its tribute to the Stanley Cup, the Hockey Hall of Fame has unveiled a new showcase, the Stanley Cup 125th Anniversary Tribute. Many famed artifacts will be featured, including Stanley Cup pucks dating back to 1901, a championship ring display, pre-NHL Stanley Cup memorabilia and even tools used to craft and engrave the trophy. www.hhof.com

events ▶ union summer From July 1 to Aug. 19, 2018, TD will be presenting Union Summer at Union Station.

Marking the reopening of Union Station, this event will showcase Where Toronto is Going with an extensive lineup of food vendors and entertainment like live music that will highlight Toronto’s talent and culture. www.torontounion.ca ▶ the taste of the danforth From Aug. 10–12, the Taste of the Danforth will be celebrating its 25th anniversary. With entertainment, contests and food stations serving up a variety of cuisines, there will be something for everyone. But make sure you don’t forget to try

out some of Greektown’s specialties like moussaka and authentic souvlaki. www.tasteofthedanforth.com ▲ jaPan festival canada Come out on Aug. 25 and 26 to experience Japan.

This annual event in Mississauga Celebration Square will be bigger and better than ever, as this year marks 90 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and Japan. With entertainment, technology and food galore, you won’t want to pass this up. www.japanfestivalcanada.com ▶ muslimfest Featuring over 80 local and international artists, MuslimFest showcases the best there is in Muslim arts and entertainment. Through 15 years of sharing the Muslim culture with the broader community, this festival has fostered bridgebuilding opportunities. Come out to Mississauga Celebration Square from Aug. 31 to Sept. 2 to check it out for yourself. www.muslimfest.com For a complete list of annual activities, please visit the Annual Festivals & Events page on Tourism Toronto: www.seetorontonow.com

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Aug/Sept 2018

City Life Magazine

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auto

THE ALL-NEW 2019 ACURA RDX

LUXURY WITHIN POWER AND PERFORMANCE

From city driving to mountain terrain, the All Wheel Drive will make sure that you’ll be able to tackle any ground you come across

GENERAL SPECS 2.0-litre, 16-valve, direct injection, DOHC, VTEC® turbocharged 4-cylinder | 272 hp @ 6500 RPM 280 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4500 RPM | 1996 displacement Tier 3 Bin 50 | 86mm x 85.9mm | 9.8:1 compression ratio

E

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

very generation has its own spirit, and every next generation reshapes that spirit into its own vision of the future. For those who live life in the fast lane, meet the 2019 Acura RDX, the all-new generation of Acura, bringing its industry-leading passion, performance and power to yet another level.

With bold, aggressive lines in its styling and low in its stance, the 2019 Acura RDX features a 272-horsepower, turbocharged VTEC 2.0-L direct injection engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, and the next generation

of super-handling, torque-vectoring All Wheel Drive to command and control every corner.

A driver-centric command centre features an all-new next-generation True Touchpad Interface (TTI) with a 10.2-inch centre display, making the incar experience more personal, responsive, intuitive and interactive than ever.

The 2019 Acura RDX supports Apple CarPlay and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, connecting you without delay to all of your smart devices. It even features an allnew natural-language voice recognition system to eliminate endless repetition of commands.

The exterior features the distinctive Diamond Pentagon grille and an unsurpassed lighting system with LED lighting, including seven LED lamps per headlight and identifiable “dragon tail” rear lighting.

This power, performance and technology are enveloped in a luxurious

Using the latest technologies, like LED lighting, the 2019 Acura RDX has surpassed previous models, while staying true to what an Acura should be

cockpit-style interior, with a leatherwrapped steering wheel and rich available leather seats and brushed aluminum and burl wood cabin finishes and accents. The ultra-wide panoramic moonroof extends into the backseat, bringing you and your passengers even closer to the stars.

Guests of Maple Acura in Vaughan got to experience the all-new redesigned 2019 Acura RDX first-hand at the official launch party on July 19. With cocktails, catered food, music and surprises, it was a fun-filled evening for all who attended.

MAPLE ACURA 111 Auto Vaughan Dr., Vaughan, Ont. 905-832-1277 www.mapleacura.com

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Aug/Sept 2018

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PHOTOS BY 2018 HONDA NORTH AMERICA

Acura has raised the bar with the 2019 RDX. This example of automotive innovation leaves all others in the dust

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Aug/Sept 2018

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music

Q&A WITH TEEN VIOLINIST

GIOVANNI At MAZZA City Life sat down with Mazza to discuss his love for music and how he became an NBA violinist interviewed By sarah kanbar

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Q. When did you start playing the violin?

A. I went to an instrument petting zoo at our library. I liked the violin, so I started Suzuki group violin lessons with other three-year-olds. We couldn’t read music, so we listened and repeated. It was www.mycitylife.ca

photo by Kris Lou

the tender age of 13 years old, Chicago native Giovanni Mazza has already accomplished what many hope to in a lifetime. Both a professional actor and musician, the child protégé is quickly catching a buzz for his musical gifts, his authentic sound and his talent as a violinist.

Mazza began playing the violin at the age of three and has since gone on to play in front of large crowds, which include professional athletes and celebrities

My ultimate goal in life is to tour the world playing my violin and win a Grammy

fun because we would play on one foot, walking around and doing silly things.

I didn’t start reading music until a few years later.

Q. How and when did you start performing professionally?

A. Violin was always just a hobby for me. When I was nine, my mom entered me into the Chicago Bulls Youth Talent Search. I didn’t ask my classical teacher for help. Instead, I tried to make up an acapella fiddle medley myself. Then I took what I had to a fiddle teacher who added in “The Orange Blossom Special.” I didn’t win the contest, but I got a lot of good feedback, which made www.mycitylife.ca

me start thinking that violin could be a career. The Bulls had me back to play a timeout, and I went a little crazier on my violin. The crowd loved it. After that, the Bulls pitched me to the NBA AllStars, who offered to fly my whole family to Toronto. I remember the process of getting ready was so exciting, but also a lot of hard work. I prepared Bach’s “Partita No. 1 in B Minor” [a really difficult piece involving chord patterns on the violin] before going into a mix of Drake’s “Jumpman” and Lil Jon’s, “Turn Down for What.” At sound check they told me I was bumped up from a timeout to the halftime of the 2016 NBA All-Star Rising Stars Challenge game in Toronto.

That was my first professional violin job at age 10.

Q. Can you tell us about the first time you played at an NBA game and what that experience was like?

A. The first time I played was the Chicago Bulls Youth Talent Search contest. There were two other kids performing in my contest group, one of which won La Voz, the Spanish version of The Voice. The kids were all older and so talented, and my mom could tell I was nervous. Before I went out, my mom said, “Don’t think of it as a contest, but just as a chance to perform. Let the crowd disappear, and it’s just you and your violin as one.” I think I kept my eyes shut the whole time, focused on the sound, and when it was

finished, I got a big rush of adrenaline.

It felt great.

Q. Who inspires you?

A. My mentor, Andrew Joslyn, is a genius.

He’s been helping me with the NBA mixes since the 2016 NBA All-Stars. He encouraged me to record songs, and he composed and produced them. He writes for big musicians, like Macklemore and Kesha. He also writes orchestra scores for films. He’s amazing, and I’m learning how to write my own violin parts and songs because of him.

Q. Do the kids at school treat you differently because of your success?

A. Nobody treats me differently at my school. I don’t know if they even know what I do besides leave early to practise my violin. It’s kind of like Hannah Montana — the best of both worlds.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? What is your ultimate goal in life?

A. I want to live in the San Francisco Bay area, and I want to do big tours playing my violin around the world — all kinds of music that will bring people together. My ultimate goal in life is to tour the world playing my violin and win a Grammy. /GiovanniMazzaViolin Aug/Sept 2018

@GiovanniViolin City Life Magazine

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MOVIES

A RATINGS OVERHAUL PG, PG-13, R — what’s really the difference these days? With movies becoming more and more graphic, how can parents decide what their children should or shouldn’t see? WRITTEN BY MYLES SHANE

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vengers: Inf inity War was recently released in cinemas, and our nine-year-old son desperately wants to see it.

He has seen the trailer on television, YouTube, Xbox and on mega-sized screens at Toronto’s YongeDundas Square. The problem is that it’s rated 14A, which means, according to the Ontario Film Review Board, the movie “is suitable for viewing by persons 14 years of age and older. Persons under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. The movie may contain violence, coarse language, and/or sexually suggestive themes.” As per usual, my wife and I are debating whether or not he should see the movie.

Our problem is that he’s seen all of the modern-day super hero films, which are saturated with unprecedented violence to ensure the maximum box office draw, and most of them are rated 14A. Moreover, he’s grown up reading comics about these characters, playing with toys based on these films and watching cartoon series about his (super) heroes. If we tell him a movie rated 14A is too violent, his quick rebuttal is, “But Iron Man was 14A, and I saw that.” What’s a parent to do?

Perhaps a bit of a history lesson regarding the 14A/PG-13 (American) rating will provide some background as to why kids are allowed to watch these violent films, and why parents are always put in a bind.

In 1984, the film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom was released. That year, the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) declared an R rating 58

City Life Magazine

Aug/Sept 2018

would be too harsh for the movie, even though the film’s images were far more disturbing than its predecessor, Raiders of the Lost Ark. So, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom received a PG rating.

Parents were hysterical. The film’s director, Steven Spielberg, and then MPAA president, the late Jack Valenti, got wind of their negative comments. “As a parent, I think the most important guide is those ratings,” Spielberg indicated in an MPAA video. Subsequently, Spielberg single-handedly changed the rating system. “It was sort of a perfect storm of movies that I either produced and directed,” Spielberg explained in the MPAA video. “It all sort of came together and created this parental objection … and I agree with that, but I also felt it would’ve been unfair to have labelled Temple with an R rating. I called Valenti, and I said, ‘Let’s get a rating somewhere in between PG and R.’ Jack agreed, and before I knew it, there was a PG-13 rating.”

Since the first PG-13 movies were released, Hollywood has taken delight in abusing this rating, pushing a system designed to protect children to its absolute breaking point. As long as F-words and bare breasts are kept to a minimum, studios can seemingly throw in as many violent deaths as they like in a PG-13 movie, whereas films that weave sex naturally into their plots are generally given an R rating.

This situation has prompted concerned parents to suggest that a rating system overhaul is needed. Many parents believe

that with the advent of state-of-theart, realistic computer graphic imagery, today’s movies are a more intense and realistic experience, compared to ’80s films, when the new rating system was implemented.

Movies from the 1980s, such as Terminator and Die Hard, were rated R at the time of their release. But a new study suggests that if they were released today, they’d probably be rated PG-13. That’s because PG-13 movies today, such as The Hunger Games or The Avengers, show more violence than the R-rated films of the 1980s, according to a new report published recently in the American journal Pediatrics. Gun violence in PG-13 films has tripled since 1985, the year the PG-13 rating was first introduced. Psychologists indicate it’s a worrisome trend that we should take seriously because evidence shows that viewing violence onscreen increases aggression in real life. The study concluded ratings should be determined by a panel that includes child psychologists, with ratings that clearly spell out which ages are most appropriate for the movie.

This afternoon, I took my son to see the new Avengers movie. It probably wasn’t the type of film I should have taken my nine-year-old to see, but until the Ontario Film Review Board revamps the rating system, parents will always be secondguessing themselves. www.ofrb.gov.on.ca www.mpaa.org www.mycitylife.ca

city Notebook

Giro d’italia 2018

photos by carlos a. pinto

Bringing together some of Toronto’s best Italian restaurants, Giro d’Italia took its guests on an expansive tour of Italian cuisine. This 10-day culinary affair featured 15 of Toronto’s best Italian restaurants, including Locale Mercatto, Paese and Cucinato. Each restaurant represented a different region in Italy through its menu, for example Enoteca Sociale represented Umbria while Yolanda’s Spuntino Casa represented Sicily. This form of representation allowed for a diverse range of Italy’s cuisines to be tasted and exposed to the public. Each restaurant offered a $52 prix-fixe menu composed of antipasti, primi, secondi and dolce during the 10-day span. With reservations being accepted, attendees could eat at 10 different restaurants or could go to Giro d’Italia’s website, check out the menus and choose their preferred location. Although this event was only offered for 10 days this year, don’t worry — this incredible event will be relaunching next year to run at the same time as Winterlicious and Summerlicious. www.girotoronto.ca

photos courtesy of haute couture academy

photo courtesy of cineplex/uber eats

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haute couture fashion show Since opening over 23 years ago, the Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design’s annual Fashion & Art Show Gala has become a way for students to showcase their work each year. Gathering at Le Jardin Special Event Centre, guests of the event were treated to an incredible array of art and design through the art gallery exhibits and the fashion show of tastefully created outfits. This sold-out show truly encapsulates what the academy offers and can teach students, ranging from Grade 2 all the way to Grade 12, as well as adults. Whether you are interested in taking one class to learn how to sew or if you want to prepare to work in this field, the academy can work with you to create a customized curriculum that will help you achieve your goals, says Joanne Dice, owner of the academy. www.hcfashionarts.ca 1. Left to right: Jacqueline Pallotto, Haute Couture Academy owner and founder and Jaycow of Jaycow Millinery 2. Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design’s annual Fashion & Art Show Gala

www.mycitylife.ca

cineplex popcorn on uber eats Thanks to a new partnership between Uber Eats and Cineplex, you can now get your favourite movie snacks delivered right to your door, along with a movie rental from the Cineplex Store. From candy to popcorn to nachos, you can enjoy the perks of the movies on your own couch. To use this innovative delivery service, all you have to do is download the Uber Eats app and type in the name of your city. With 60 theatres across Canada taking part, you can enjoy that delicious movie popcorn at home. www.cineplex.com/ubereats

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city Notebook

photo by carlos a. pinto

stefano di cecco

Dal Moro’s Fresh Pasta to Go has opened its first franchise location outside of Europe, here in Toronto. Chef Gabriele Dal Moro, a seventh-generation Venetian, is dedicated to creating authentic Italian meals using quality products at affordable prices. This fast-casual restaurant offers seven different types of handmade pastas, 12 fresh sauces made daily, as well as a selection of toppings providing endless combinations, all ranging in price from $8 to $12.

www.wavesofchanges.ca

toronto.dalmorosfreshpastatogo.com

photo courtesy of dal moro’s

Finding out that your child has autism can completely change your world. “At the beginning, there’s devastation,” says Mattea Di Cecco, whose son, Stefano, was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at age three. “But you move forward, and he really taught us to look at the world differently,” she recalls. This year, at 13 years old, Stefano wrote about his experience living with ASD for an oral speaking competition, which he went on to win in the entire York District. “[I] chose [that topic] to educate others and show that everyone is different,” says Stefano. “Some kids can’t talk, so I want to talk for them.”

Mattea advises parents that being open with their children about their diagnosis can really help them, as they can begin to comprehend why they may face challenges. Due to his speech, Stefano was recognized by the Waves of Changes for Autism organization, which has named him its junior ambassador. “I’m one face of autism, and I hope to spread awareness that all people are unique and special whether they have a disability or not,” says Stefano. When he gets older, Stefano would like to become an actor or get into a field where he can write or work with computers. One thing is for sure, though: ASD won’t stand in his way.

dal Moro’s pasta

royal astronoMical society To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC), the Royal Canadian Mint has released a remarkable limited-edition coin. The $20 Fine Silver Coin features a genuine meteorite fragment, as well as other artistic elements that depict outer space. This creation, designed by Canadian artist Alexandra Lefort, is symbolic of the contributions Canadian astronomers have made to society, says Randy Attwood, executive director of the RASC.

@roberta_b22

www.rasc.ca

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You could say that music is in Roberta Battaglia’s blood. Her dad is a well-known musician in Vaughan and both her grandfather and great-grandfather are music teachers in Italy. She started singing with her father, Alessandro, when she was two and a half, and she hasn’t stopped since. "It's because of him that I'm where I am and doing what I do," says Roberta. When people hear her sing they’re always surprised, says Gabriella, Roberta’s mother. Recently Roberta performed at the 2018 Mayor’s Gala and the CHIN Picnic, and when she was only four years old, she performed on the CHIN Picnic Showcase Stage with Pupo. “I really like to encourage people, especially kids my age,” says Roberta.

“Whatever dream they have they can achieve it; never stop dreaming, never stop believing in yourself." In the future, Roberta hopes to become a professional singer and even sing at the Super Bowl. Whether she’s singing Katy Perry, Michael Jackson or even Etta James, you can hear the passion in her voice. “When I see smiles on [the audience members’] faces it makes my heart so happy,” she says.

At eight years old, not only is she incredibly talented, but she also recognizes the value in giving back to the community. Currently, she is selling bracelets to raise money for SickKids.

photo by carlos a. pinto

photo courtesy of rasc

roberta battaGlia

Aug/Sept 2018

www.mycitylife.ca

city Notebook desirÉe openinG event This year marks a momentous occasion for Desirée. Not only is the store celebrating 29 years in business, but it’s also just opened a new location on Rutherford Road. Joined by family, staff and many citizens of Vaughan, the Desirée team came together for a grand celebration.

Vaughan’s own local and regional councillor, Sunder Singh, and Ward 3 councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca were in attendance to take part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. This exciting chapter marks a new and hopefully final step for this company, what the team has called its “final move.” With designer brands and beautiful pieces, this new location will invite you in with its fresh look and exquisite décor. www.desiree.ca 1 1

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photos courtesy of ride for health

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ride for health — Mackenzie health

www.mackenziehealthfoundation.ca 1. 2018 Ride for Health Committee 2. 2018 Ride for Health top fundraising team A-TACC 3. Fernando Zerillo of Dolce Media Group and Sergio Sosa 4. The 2018 Ride for Health’s 100-kilometre riders at the Musselman's Lake pit stop

www.mycitylife.ca

6

photos by carlos a. pinto

Hundreds of cyclists came out to take part in the fourth annual Ride for Health this June. The donations will be going to the Mackenzie Health Foundation to aid in the construction of the new Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital, as well as improving the patient experience at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital. With bikers participating in 25-, 60- and 100-kilometre courses, they remained motivated throughout the entire journey, thanks to dedicated crowds cheering them on. Eon D’Ornellas, a four-time Olympian, was even among the cyclists taking part, inspired by his own experience at Mackenzie Health after experiencing a stroke in 2011. Thanks to dedicated sponsors, donors and participants, the event was able to surpass its original fundraising goal by over $5,000, raising a grand total of $310,000 — record-breaking numbers. This annual event is already in the works to continue on next year, currently scheduled for June 2. Make sure to put it in your calendars.

1. Carmela Bozzo and Josie Restivo with their families 2. Maria Vinzi, Lia Gabriele, and Mary Montagnese 3. Milena Calabro and Josie Restivo 4. Laura Presutto, Carmela Vitullo and Rose Humphries 5. Carmela Bozzo with Ninetta Panetta, Jessica Panetta and Anna Bozzo 6. Josie Restivo, Laura Bulley, Sarah Bozzo, Nicole Bozzo and Carmela Bozzo

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city Notebook 1

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This summer marked the seventh edition of the Italian Contemporary Film Festival. With over 180 screenings spread out over eight cities in Canada, this festival reached new heights and new cities this year, including Vancouver, Hamilton, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Toronto, Vaughan, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City. This came thanks to a partnership with the Italian government, as well as its representatives throughout Canada. Thanks to this expansion, the festival had a recordbreaking number of visitors and attendees at 38,000. This festival focuses on supporting ItalianCanadian actors and creators, and their co-productions. In association with Fare Cinema and with dedicated sponsors like Dolce Media Group, this year’s festival went even better than expected.

The closing gala ended the festival off with an incredible award show hosted at the Ritz-Carlton in Toronto. The evening focused on recognizing various films from the festival such as Tulipani, Love, Honour and a Bicycle, which won the ICFF People’s Choice Award, and Road to the Lemon Grove, which left with the IC Savings Award.

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www.icff.ca 1. Ambassador d’Italia in Canada, Claudio Taffuri, and Senator Francesca Alderisi presenting actor Claudio Bisio with the Lifetime Achievement Award 2. ICFF’s president of the board presenting Shape of Water crew Roberto Campanella, J. Miles Dale and Nick Iannelli with the Empire Community Award 3. Maurizio Magnifico, ICFF managing director, with actor Giuseppe Battiston, and artistic director Cristiano De Florentiis at ICFF

photos courtesy of icff

icff concludes with a record-hiGh attendance of 38,000 and celebrated italian-canadian co-productions, with over 180 screeninGs in eiGht cities across canada

photo courtesy of novotel

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novotel vauGhan Conveniently located in Vaughan, this premier hotel is ideal no matter what the occasion.

Whether you’re staying for business or leisure, Novotel’s array of accommodations will keep you happy. With a pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, pet accommodations and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, you won’t be disappointed with these incredible amenities. Situated right beside Vaughan Mills and Canada’s Wonderland, you won’t have to go far to access some of Vaughan’s amazing locales. Enjoy the city you already love or get to know this beautiful city from the comfort of this premium hotel. www.novotelvaughan.ca

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city Notebook all-star Gala in support of sickkids

DOES YOUR BAG

The All-Star Gala in support of SickKids hosted its fourth annual event at the Toronto Event Centre this past June. With over 1,250 guests, this event brings out many of Toronto’s A-listers, including young professionals, celebrities and pro athletes like Brett Connolly of the Washington Capitals and Brandon Tanev of the Winnipeg Jets. The luxury bar serving up custom cocktails, a silent auction, interactive sports-based games and live entertainment, thanks to some of Toronto’s top musicians and DJs, were all a part of making this one of the most prestigious events of the year. This year, TSN’s Jay Onrait was the emcee for the evening, with a little bit of help from Evan Hollinrake, a seven-year-old patient at SickKids who stole the show, not to mention everyone’s hearts. Thus far, this incredible event has raised $320,000 for the hospital, with funding going toward a research project led by Dr. Mike Seed, head of cardiology at SickKids, to ascertain a way to eliminate brain damage in babies with congenital heart disease (CHD).

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photos courtesy of all-star Gala

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1. Brett Connolly and SickKids patient ambassador Evan Hollinrake 2. Co-founders James Blackburn and Cam Healy 3. Miss Universe Canada Lauren Howe 4. TSN host Cabbie Richards 5. J.P. Arencibia and emcee of the gala and TSN host Jay Onrait 2

photos courtesy of pasta & paisans

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Jo-Ann Folino

Royal LePage Your Community Realty Sales Representative

pasta & paisans coMedy fundraiser supportinG vlG The Villa Leonardo Gambin Charity hosted its second annual comedy fundraiser, Pasta & Paisans, featuring some incredible comedians like Giuseppe the MC and the headliner Gerry Dee. Audience members were brought together through laughter and by the desire to help. The goal of this event was to raise money for the Better Beds Fundraising Campaign, and with dedicated sponsors all across the board and generous donations, the evening was a true success. www.villagambin.com 1. Giuseppe the MC and Jerry Buligan, past chair of Villa Leonardo Gambin 2. The Staff of Villa Leonardo Gambin joined by Donato Panacci, a 101 year old resident of VLG

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CALL ME AND FIND OUT WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH IN TODAY’S MARKET. Office: 416-477-5950 Cell: 416-571-7795 Email: gfolino66@gmail.com

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photo by impact north

city Notebook

we love you connie foundation

photo by cathy ciccolini

The We Love You Connie Foundation has had an incredibly successful year raising funds and awareness for a cause that is close to the founders’ hearts. The response within the community has been incredibly touching. After taking part in the Ride to Conquer Cancer for 10 years, Marco Guglietti, co-founder of the We Love You Connie Foundation, along with his wife, Michela, and his three brothers were inspired to create their own inaugural cycling event to help. “Our original goal was to have 50 riders, ride 50 kilometres and raise $50,000. We ended up having 80 riders still ride 50 km, but raise $175,000,” says Guglietti.

“Our foundation was also chosen as the charity to receive the funds raised this year at Masters Insurance Limited’s yearly golf tournament — a big thank-you to the Ciccolini and Corby families.” This recognition within the community further strengthens the support and funds that will be allocated to help better care for, research and search for a cure to diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). www.weloveyouconnie.com

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2018 Mayor’s Gala

www.vaughan.ca 1. Altaf Stationwala, Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Dennis Kohn, Jack Eisenberger, Silvio De Gasperis, Carlo De Gasperis, Michael De Gasperis, Yitzy Gunsburg 2. Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and members of council 3. Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and Premier Doug Ford

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photos by valeria mitsubata photoGraphy

This annual event celebrating the Vaughan community took place at Universal EventSpace and hosted 1,000 attendees. The theme, Amore in the City, was perfectly in line with the events that transpired throughout the evening.

The mayor’s keynote address brought to light the way in which the spirit of generosity is a foundational aspect of this community.

Each year, the proceeds raised go toward helping over 150 not-for-profit and community organizations. This year, the highlight of the evening was the historic $20-million donation to the Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital, which is set to open in 2020. Gifted by the De Gasperis and Kohn families, this donation will be crucial to the development of a new learning centre within the hospital that will have some of the most technologically advanced features available within Canada.

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photo by Ryan EmbERlEy

Bringing the French riviera to Your Doorstep

At his Michelin-starred restaurant, Les Bacchanales, in vence, France, dufau uses his innovative skills and imagination to develop new menus each week, inspired by seasonal ingredients

Partnering with Grey Goose for its MarchĂŠ event, chef Christophe Dufau brings the French Riviera style of cooking and living to Toronto. City Life sat down with Dufau to get a glimpse into the life of this Michelin-starred chef and uncover where he finds his inspiration interviewed By Victoria Scott

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Q. Did you always know you wanted to be a chef? What led you to choose this career?

A. I knew since I was nine years old; that’s when I started cooking and experimenting in the kitchen. My grandmother and mother inspired me and taught me everything they know. I spent all my Sundays cooking with them while my brothers were out playing.

Q. In your own restaurant, why do you choose to come up with a new menu each week? Is that challenging?

A. The challenge keeps me alive.

style cooking or this French marketstyle experience?

A. To cook with fresh ingredients and to be open to and respectful for what each season offers.

Q. Do you have any advice for young chefs who hope to achieve success like yours?

A. Be passionate and curious, travel the world and be open-minded.

Q. What is one dish you believe that everyone should try to learn to make?

A. The dish they love to eat.

My grandmother and mother inspired me and taught me everything they know. i spent all my sundays cooking with them while my brothers were out playing

Q. Why did you choose to collaborate with Grey Goose for this event?

A. Grey Goose Vodka has the same philosophy of choosing quality ingredients as I do.

Celebrating the season, chef dufau brought his expertise to this Marché experience. He created a menu inspired by Canada’s seasonal ingredients, as well as Grey Goose’s own cocktails

Q. How did you find your inspiration for the menus here with Grey Goose?

A. I had to keep the Grey Goose cocktail pairings in mind, and [I] was inspired by the seasonal produce in the different Canadian markets with my Provençal touch.

Q. Is there anything you hoped to achieve or express through your involvement here and through the menus?

A. The French Riviera style of living and cooking, as well as the importance of fresh, quality ingredients.

Q. What do you think or hope people can take away from French-

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Q. Do you have a favourite meal to eat and a favourite dish to cook?

A. It would have to be a Provençal meal to eat and to cook.

Q. What book would you recommend everyone reads?

A. Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince) by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Q. What is one of your guilty pleasures that you do not regret?

A. Eating cheese and charcuterie as a midnight snack.

Q. Can you tell us a few things that make you happy?

A. Cooking in different parts of the world, sailing with my boat, diving and walking in nature with my dogs.

Q. What do you love about Toronto?

A. The big city, stylish atmosphere and such nicely dressed women. I always really appreciated the diversity of cultures.

Q. What does la dolce vita, the good life, mean to you?

A. Having the luxury of living on the French Riviera. www.lesbacchanales.com www.greygoose.com/ca www.mycitylife.ca

photos by Ryan EmbERlEy

Q. Where do you find inspiration?

A. Mostly at the market, but lots of situations are inspiring. Also, travelling and talking about food to people in different parts of the world keeps me inspired and helps me challenge myself and what I do in the kitchen.

www.mycitylife.ca

Aug/Sept 2018

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Ralph Ricciardi

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