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HOTEL BIRKS: MONTREAL’S NEWEST LANDMARK

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SUSTAINABILITY: TURNING USED TIRES INTO SHOES & FASHION

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A FRENCH ARTIST WHOSE HOME SPEAKS VOLUMES

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SANREMO BAKERY CAFE: PRIDE AND PASSION TURNED INTO SUCCESS

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VOLUME 17 ISSUE 5 | OCT/NOV 2019

CONTENTS COVER STORY

54

26 30 46 22

VAPING: THE NEW ADDICTION: Youth vaping and smoking is on the rise, opening up new questions and concerns about its long-term impact

22 ORGANETTO GIRL: Meet Isabella

Chiappetta, the 10-year-old playing an organetto to keep Italian tradition alive

26 OPENING ORETTA: Restaurateur

Salvatore Mele discusses Oretta’s success and how it’s made its mark on Toronto’s King Street West

30 RENOWNED RENOVATIONS: NEUF

architect(e)s has spent two years breathing new life into Montreal’s Hotel Birks

46 COUNTRY LIVING: By keeping to a

mantra of “restore rather than discard,” this couple has created their haven in the country

40

14 DESIGN IDEAS: The new

openings and announcements you need to know from the world of design

40 EDITOR’S PICKS: A roundup of this season’s finest finds, from fashion and accessories to furniture

42 SUSTAINABLE STYLE: Read

about the brand turning used tires into footwear and fashion

50 SWEET SUCCESS: As SanRemo Bakery celebrates its 50th anniversary, we look at what goes on behind the scenes at the established bakery business

More stories inside …

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Oct/Nov 2019

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11

PUBLISHER’S NOTE PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Believe In a world that is fast becoming soulless Be challenged to find your own soul Then make it selfless.

When the television portrays only tragedy Be challenged to turn it off Spend your time working on your own humility.

If you’re surrounded by people who are envious Be challenged to cull the herd around you Fill your life with those who bring joyousness.

During the times you feel utterly hopeless Be challenged to claw your way out Understand that genuine happiness is timeless.

Find your soul. Believe in yourself. Trust in your God. Love your family. Share your plenty. Lean when you need. Live out loud.

Love heartily. Grow your humanity.

Infect the worldZerillo with your faith.

Fernando

Co-Founder/Creative Director — from The Wife by Iris Imeneo

natural disasters and extreme weather conditions, one could ask the same question now. In De 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 was in the firemen going up the stairs to rescue the people in the towers. It’s a response that to this date gives me comfort. Likewise, now, God is in the rescue workers bringing relief to Puerto Rico, Mexico and Florida. And God was in the beaches and all-inclusive resorts and was struck by the extreme poverty doctors who fought to save Paul De Lio. He was with the family of local garbage dump workers. The landfills were full of used tires and friends who prayed for De Lio’s life and later, for his recovery. leaching chemicals into the ground or the air when they were burned.

Today, just a few months after his ordeal, De Lio is filled with She createdand a company thatHe turns old rubber from thesefitires into shoes positivity gratitude. is ready to help others nd ways to and fashion accessories, creating fair-paying jobs and micro-fi live with motivation. Dare I say, then, God also resides innancing De opportunities forhis locals.

Lio’s heart. See story on page 32.

Unfortunately, can notyou ignore the agree recent with newsmy thatthoughts the current Of course, it’s we possible do not vaping trend among youths may have serious health ramifi cations. on the whereabouts of God. We all know that one should notAs parents, we want answers, so we ask some hard questions of Terry Dean, speak casually of politics or religion, for these are sensitive president and CEO the Canadian Lung aAssociation.

We already topics (although theofweather isn’t exactly safe topic anymore, know theBut risksperhaps associated whichin is our highly addictive either). youwith willnicotine, be interested story about — one podFaith, is theaequivalent a pack of cigarettes vaping the Juul Bahá’Í relatively of new religion with 5 to—7 but million adherents practisingharmful globally.eff Ifects youon believe in theaff betterment of may have additional the brain, ecting memory, the world, in and unity, lovedevelopment. and service, you might find your place concentration brain here. equality you of all sexes, races and creeds,and WeBahá’Í’s hope thisbelieve editioninmotivates with its stories of passion and in — thebut harmony Story on page 74. success also, thatofitscience informsand youreligion. about how to keep your family In this day healthy and and safe.age, we could all use more unity, love and faith, regardless oftime, whatbe form it takes.

May you enjoy this edition Until next grateful and always strive to be better thanofyou City Life Magazine.

It, like life, is yours to experience and do were yesterday. with what you will.

Passion and success go hand in hand Michelle Zerillo-Sosa,

W W

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

ith just twenty-four hours left before we go to press with the October/November edition of City Life, I can’t help but feel a surge of pride for the staff members in every department as they finalize this issue. We pride ourselves in selecting people who work tirelessly to meet each pressing deadline, day in, day out, who do their jobs with care and passion because they love what they do.

In the interviews we in our our subjects often ell,feature in the case of publication, Yolanda Gampp, this could be talk about passion. Thaey describe it as an innate desire to overcome real possibility. If you’re not yet familiar with obstacles, a strong conviction thatshe success within reach. You can’t help her work, is a ismulti-millionaire YouTube but feel the infectious baker enthusiasm optimism of these that entrepreneurs.

(3.3 and million subscribers, is) … all Take, fortoexample, Oretta,imagination. a striking restaurant where one might thanks her incredible is is aand woman dreams up cakes for a living — not go for Th a drink stay forwho dinner.

The food is described as Southern traditional tiered shapes and in flavours, buttries cakes look Italian

by Di Marco, who was born Sicily. He withthat every dishlike to hotthe dogs, huge apples, flavours like the convey feeling of candy sitting at home,watermelons, enjoying familyinand food together. ultimate red velvet … You get owner the idea.

When the restaurant wasand firstchocolate opened bycake Salvatore Mele, of motherwhich of God, this lady has on theKing power to tempt the Sweet Mele Group, is behind Oretta, Street West,even one thecity’s strongest-willed withthe herpressure cakes! Her belief isfood that of the busiest streets,person they faced of supplying anything is possible, and with the love and support of family and service at the highest levels. and friends, highest of success are attainable.

Passion is thethe behind thelevels longevity of SanRemo Bakery,Read first her story on page 38. established more than 50 years ago, now the pride and joy of the Speaking of belief, we all pray that our faith need never be original founder’s sons, Edward, Nick and Robert Bozzo. Theirs is a tested the way Paul De Lio’s is. Many of us go through life family business that values its employees like family members. without ever having to question why tragedies strike our lives or Success is even sweeter when it also has a positive impact in the the lives of others in the world. A few years back, we published world, like theabout success Canadian Christal Earlethe is an article theofdefi nition ofentrepreneur God. I remember asking founder of sandal and accessory brand Brave Soles.

A humanitarian writer to pose this question to various religious leaders: “Where working in theinDominican Republic, EarleGiven saw beyond the beautiful was God moments such as 9/11?” the recent state of

CAN YOU HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO?

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CITY LIFE MAGAZINE

Oct/Nov 2019

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 Michelle Zerillo-Sosa • michelle@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca ART D E PARTM E NT CO-FOUNDER / CREATIVE DIRECTOR Fernando Zerillo • fernando@dolce.ca SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Christina Ban SENIOR UI/UX DESIGNER Yena Yoo WEB DEVELOPER Jordan Carter JUNIOR UI/UX DESIGNER Maria Korolenko E D ITO R IAL D E PARTM E NT FASHION & HOME DÉCOR EDITOR Michelle Zerillo-Sosa BEAUTY & WELLNESS EDITOR Angela Palmieri-Zerillo CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jacky Hobbs, Nickolas Lombardi, Rick Muller, Donna Paris, Cece M. Scott, Josh Walker COPY EDITORS AND PROOFREADERS Jennifer D. Foster, Nina Hoeschele CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Maxime Brouillet, Clive Nicholas, Carlos A. Pinto, Adrien Williams SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS Adriana Parente, Jessica Spera VI D E O D E PARTM E NT VIDEOGRAPHER Carlos A. Pinto PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING T: 905-264-6789 info@mycitylife.ca DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Susan Bhatia SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Mario Balaceanu ACCOUNT MANAGERS Christina Bono, Adrienne D’Amico OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Maria DiRico FRONT COVER Photo by Nery Zarate

City Life Magazine • Volume 17 • Issue 5 • Oct/Nov 2019 City Life Magazine is published bimonthly by Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9 T: 905-264-6789 • F: 905-264-3787 info@mycitylife.ca • www.dolcemedia.ca Subscribe online at www.mycitylife.ca or by calling 905-264-6789. City Life Magazine’s yearly subscription fee is $24.

We accept Visa, MC & AMEX. Send cheque or money order to Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9 Publication Mail Agreement No. 40026675 All rights reserved. Any reproduction is strictly prohibited without written consent from the publishers.

DISTRIBUTION AND CIRCULATION City Life Magazine reaches 294,810 readers per issue through household distribution and event partnerships across Canada. City Life is also available to over 100 million digital consumers of Magzter Inc. and Issuu.

Inquiries about where City Life Magazine is available for sale should be directed to Dolce Media Group: info@dolce.ca or 905-264-6789.

ISSN 1206-1778 Next Issue: Dec/Jan 2019/20 The opinions expressed in City Life Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. Dolce 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 23 years without any government funding or financial assistance of programs to cover editorial costs. It has all been possible thanks to the wonderful support of our readers and advertisers. ©2019 Dolce Media Group • www.dolcemedia.ca • Printed in Canada @citylifetoronto www.mycitylife.ca

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@citylifemag

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WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

DESIGN IDEAS

From floral sculptures at the Four Seasons Hotel to Warren Garrett’s new Montreal atelier, catch up on the openings and announcements shaping the design landscape across lighting, architecture and beyond

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AZURE ANNOUNCES ITS AZ AWARDS FINALISTS The winners of the 2019 AZ Awards, hosted by Azure magazine, have been selected, highlighting talent from architecture and furniture to products and interiors. Currently in its ninth edition, this year’s competition received a recordbreaking 1,175 submissions from 50 countries and introduced a new Heritage + Preservation/Adaptive Re-use Architecture category. From the submissions, 68 finalists were selected, which the public was invited to vote for until May 3 this year.

The winners of the competition were announced on June 21 at Toronto’s Evergreen Brick Works during an event that brought together thought leaders from the architecture and design community and was attended by the guest of honour, renowned American landscape architect Martha Schwartz.

Azure’s July/August issue, which was released at the end of June, highlighted the winning designs both in print and online, alongside visionary concepts, student work and experimental graphic design. www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTOS BY AZURE

From left to right: Henning Larsen: Eystur Town Hall, Norõragøta, Faroe Islands; OPEN Architecture: UCCA Dune Art Museum, Qinhuangdao, China; Patkau Architects: Temple of Light, Kootenay Bay, Canada; Studio Cadena: Masa, Bogotá, Colombia

ALA Architects: Central Library Oodi, Helsinki, Finland (Left) Oppenheim Architecture: Muttenz Water Purification Plant, Basel, Switzerland (Right)

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The tallest media facade on the planet, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE, using over 28 km of SACO’s innovative V-Stick technology

DESIGN IDEAS LIGHTS ON FOR SACO AT THE STRATEGIES IN LIGHT CONFERENCE

PHOTO BY DIRK REICH/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

SACO Technologies, a leader in LED lighting and technology, has won the 2019 Sapphire Award. Coming top in the Specialty Solid-State Lighting Design category with its Shockwave V-Stick S and S2 fixtures, the brand was presented a trophy at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center in Las Vegas during the Strategies in Light conference.

“We’re extremely honoured to be recognized by the lighting community for our commitment to creating stylish, compact, easily dissimulated video fixtures using highperformance LEDs that deliver uninterrupted lines of light,” says Yanick Fournier, vice-president of business development for SACO. Currently, the Shockwave V-Stick fixtures are being used in the Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Liberty Center in Cincinnati; and in the archetypal chandelier Volumetric Solar Equation, located in Canada.

PHOTO BY STEPHANY HILDEBRAND

PASCALE GIRARDIN’S FOUR SEASONS SCULPTURE CELEBRATES THE SHIFTING SEASONS Luxury hospitality brand Four Seasons commissioned Pascale Girardin to create an original sculpture for the Four Seasons Hotel Montreal, located in the heart of the Golden Square Mile.

Titled Contemplation, the sculpture is suspended in the hotel’s open-air atrium. Made of lightweight aluminum and accented with 24-karat gold, it embodies the human stories, colourful details and connections found within the city. The sculpture is made up of more than 90 floral parts that hang through the atrium and, with its sense of movement, echoes the seasonal cycles of nature.

Though originally trained as a painter, Girardin has moved into ceramics and tableware, as well as sculpture.

With a background in biology, her work often references our relationship with the natural world. As well as the recent unveiling of her work at the Four Seasons, she has won several awards and distinctions, with pieces in New York’s Saks Fifth Avenue and Clement Restaurant, as well as Printemps Paris.

A skyward view of the artwork Contemplation as seen from the ninth floor

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DESIGN IDEAS

WARREN GARRETT OPENS ITS NEW MONTREAL ATELIER

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PHOTOS BY MAXIME BROUILLET

Interior architecture and design firm Warren Garrett has opened its Montreal atelier in the city’s HochelagaMaisonneuve district. Wanting to service clients both locally and internationally, the location has been selected for the city’s dynamic, cultured environment.

“Montreal is an architecturally rich, sophisticated metropolis that has managed to maintain a sense of smalltown warmth and charm,” says co-founder of Warren Garrett, Jeremy Garrett. “It is also experiencing movement toward new high-end real estate developments and luxury environments, and our goal is to offer our insight and expertise in that arena, which has been our practice’s core focus since our inception. We want to integrate into that movement and to help it strike a balance.”

The atelier brings together some of the brand’s previous work and accessories, acting as a space where clients can enter a creative environment, while gaining insight into the firm’s process and approach to design.

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A DV E R TO R I A L

The team behind Info 100200, which provides businesses small and large with a mobile strategy using today’s preferred communication medium: text messaging with smartphones

USE TEXT MESSAGING, GROW YOUR BUSINESS Not everyone reads their emails or listens to voicemails right away. But they look at their texts. Schedule your demo today. Text “MYDEMO” to 100200

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Oct/Nov 2019

its advertising and marketing initiatives.

When the consumer sends the keyword to 100200, within seconds the consumer is sent a link to the business’s website or to a custom landing page to see the special offers, coupons or news of what the business has to offer, all on the convenience of their smartphone.

Brister has been in this business a long time, providing leading-edge solutions to companies wanting to grow their business. A self-described “serial entrepreneur,” he’s built 10 businesses from the ground up. Because of this experience and his knowledge in the corporate and financial communications world, he’s become a problem-solver and solutions-developer for unique challenges. His motto? “Driven by challenges, lives for solutions!”

The benefits of a mobile marketing strategy are huge. Mobile marketing caters to the very large and growing population that prefer texting over phone calls and voice messages. Many consumers use smartphones for, well, just about everything now, because they can and mobile messages are received instantly. It’s simple and convenient to

use, and features complete anonymity.

When consumers use the link to a business’s website, the analytics on the company’s end simply show that the user came from 100200. This allows the business to properly access the traffic created through 100200.

Info 100200 works for small businesses and large corporations, too. In fact, one of its clients is a small theatre company in Ontario. But there are other applications for the technology, too, like a health and wellness initiative. Simply by texting “health” to 100200, the consumer can access national information providers, including the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society.

It’s the future, really. “If you’re not offering a text message platform or tool to access your website or your information, then you’re probably not up-to-date,” Brister says.

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T

hink about this: The open rates for text messages can be as high as 98 per cent. On average, it takes someone less than three minutes to respond to a text.

“That’s what the research shows – and there isn’t another medium that comes close to that,” says Roy Brister, CEO of Info 100200.

It’s a new mobile consumer engagement platform – and this one is different. Why? Because it’s all handled over a smartphone, something that 96 per cent of Canadians carry around every day in a purse or back pocket. “We’ve received so much interest in this, it’s amazing to us,” says Brister. He should know: they’ve done their homework and have been testing and building for almost two years, and now they’re ready to go.

How does the 100200 Mobile Marketing Strategy work? 100200 has developed a software platform allowing businesses to distribute any information to their desired targeted audience using text messaging. Each business receives an exclusive KEYWORD. The business then promotes its KEYWORD through

A DV E R TO R I A L

“FALL”ING FOR FEMME ...

BY CHRISTINA

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◀ This classic ribbed hat with its super-soft pompom is the perfect touch this season

▶ Add some sparkle to your night-out attire this winter season: opt for a tailored black jumpsuit (very versatile and chic) rather than a little black dress and shine all night

◀This proudly Canadian brand, Sentaler, is adored by the likes of fashion icons from Meghan Markle to Gigi Hadid. Perfectly lightweight and luxurious, these outerwear pieces are extremely warm and durable and are a staple for Canadian fall, winter and even spring

S

ince 2017 Christina Infusino, owner of Femme by Christina in Kleinburg, has been carefully styling customers with the latest and greatest pieces. Now, with fall fashion upon us, she’s narrowing down this season’s top trends.

“Fall has always been my favourite season to style customers for.

This year we’ll be seeing a ton of silks, animal prints, classic blackand-white looks, checkered pants and details like kick flare pants, Victorian shoulders and some sparkle.

“Another key trend is fur. Whether a little fur jacket or full-fledged coat, these luxurious pieces automatically elevate any look. This year, Femme by Christina has gone cruelty-free: all of our pieces are faux (other than Sentaler’s cruelty-free alpaca fur on our favourite winter coats).

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◀ Fall in love with the rich colour and style of these extremely versatile – not to mention soft – leather booties

“My last tip would be to have fun with your looks. Throw on some sneakers and a luxurious coat with your knit dresses, elevate your everyday look with an embellished cardigan ... and remember: when layering multiple pieces, stick to one or two that are trendy and keep the rest more classic.”

905-893-0697 10522-A Islington Ave., Kleinburg, Ont. www.femmebychristina.com @FemmeByChristina

Oct/Nov 2019

CITY LIFE MAGAZINE

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community

LITTLE ORGANETTO GIRL A 10-year-old’s proficiency with the organetto is making her family, and the wider community, proud

A

common lament among the older generation is a worry that the fast-paced, multi-screen lifestyle of today’s youth could mean certain long-standing traditions may be lost forever. This may certainly be true in music, where a generation living while wearing their earbuds may not appreciate the creative arts that came before them, and in some ways, laid the foundation for what they’re listening to.

The exception may be Isabella Chiappetta, or as she’s known on YouTube, “Little Organetto Girl.” The 10-year-old

Isabella Chiappetta has become a YouTube star and community favourite with her organetto talents

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PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

from Woodbridge has been playing the organetto, or a small button accordion traditionally used in Italian folk music, for the past few years and is attracting quite a following, having appeared on local television shows and played at charity events and festivals.

“Our family was in Italy a few years ago and my dad’s cousins were playing the instrument at a family party,” says Isabella. “It was just lying there on the floor at one point and it was shiny and colourful and it had all these buttons, so I just picked it up and started pushing the buttons. It was really cool and it sounded different than most instruments.”

“She found it intriguing and interesting,” recalls her father Gino.

“We were all shocked at how quickly she took to the organetto. Just to pick it up and soak it all in blew us all away, and we were so proud she was carrying on this tradition.”

The medieval organetto was a portable, hand-pumped instrument, relatively lightweight and easily carried, often used in religious processions or other occasions. It was among the most

Because the organetto is so unique people are quite generous, and she feels wonderful doing it popular instruments in Europe from the 13th to the 16th century.

Today, it is rather a unique instrument that attracts a lot of attention, most likely because of Isabella’s proficiency with it. “It was pretty tricky to play at

IT@CA

the start because I’d had no experience,” says Isabella. “When I got one from my parents I practised every day at lessons and I still practise four or five times a week so I don’t forget.”

Gino is a food buyer with the Ontario Food Terminal and knows most of the local independent grocers.

On Saturdays he takes Isabella to some grocery stores where she’ll play for an hour, with a basket she picked out in Italy in front of her to collect money.

Then all the money she collects goes to the Hospital for Sick Children.

“Because the organetto is so unique people are quite generous, and she feels wonderful doing it,” says Gino proudly.

For Isabella, the organetto and the traditional Italian folk music she plays have a deeper meaning, even at her young age. “It makes me happy and it’s part of my culture and I love that,” she says. “It’s good to dance to, but more important, I get to carry on an Italian tradition.”

For some of an older generation, to hear those words from a 10-year-old is music to the ears. @little_organetto_girl

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Back to School

Jason Polsinelli, senior wealth advisor at Polsinelli Financial Advisory Group, shares his expertise when it comes to saving for your child’s post-secondary education

J

ason Polsinelli of the Polsinelli Financial Advisory Group leads a premier financial planning, advisory and wealth management team at Scotia Wealth Management. He hopes to use his unrivalled experience and expertise in this industry to help you manage your financial needs.

Q. What does post-secondary education cost today?

A. It depends. For most students who end up choosing a Canadian college or university, tuition can range between $3,000 to $8,000 a year without books and supplies. With residency, you could add $12,000 to $20,000 a year. If they choose to study abroad, the sky’s the limit. A four-year undergrad university program with residency will typically cost $80,000 per child.

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Q. How can students afford this?

A. Funding can come from various sources like grants and part-time jobs but for the most part students are funded by student debt and parents. Student debt can be a burden for many years to come and impact them financially after school has ended.

Q. Are there any solutions that parents and students can use to lower overall costs?

A. The only time-tested and most costeffective way is for parents to save well in advance. Although we can save in bank accounts, savings bonds, and use other

savings methods, the best way is to open and use a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). Due to its tax-effective nature and help from grants, the RESP account can achieve financial goals for education nearly twice as fast as regular savings methods.

Q. What makes the RESP the best savings method?

A. RESP is a registered savings account like your RSP but is dedicated to saving toward education. The benefit is that every year parents or other subscribers save money for a child up to 17 years old, they can net a 20% grant from the government on the dollar amount contributed up to $2,500.

That’s like receiving an additional $500 per year. And, if you miss a year, you will be allowed to contribute an additional $2,500 of catch-up room to a maximum of $5,000 in another given year to receive that 20% grant. If you can save $2,500 routinely each year to age 18 in an RESP with a 5% return rate, you can accumulate $86,654 toward your child’s post-secondary education.

Q. What happens if children don’t go to university or college?

A. An RESP account is allowed to remain open for 36 years, so if children decide to go back to school at a later date you can use the funds then. If you have another child, you are also able to transfer the RESP savings and grants to a child under 21 without restriction. However, if none of that happens, the grant will have to be returned to the government and your principle contributions will be returned to you without tax.

Q. Why are parents not taking advantage of this program?

A. We believe it has to do with awareness of the account. According to an IPSOS survey, nearly one-third of parents are not saving for their children’s education and nearly 60% have not taken advantage of the grants available in an RESP. For postsecondary education, this should be the number one savings tool.

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

Polsinelli believes the RESP is the number one savings tool when saving for school

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restaurant

Sleek, stylish, sophisticated and contemporary, Oretta has one of Torontoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most original and captivating restaurant designs

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Salvatore Mele already had the successful Capocaccia Trattoria at Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue when he expanded to King West with Oretta

With its traditional southern Italian cooking, stunning design and fun atmosphere, Oretta has made its mark on Toronto’s ultracompetitive King Street West

AN ORETTA WELL SPENT WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

T

PHOTO COURTESY OF ORETTA RESTAURANT

oronto’s King Street West is one of those rare groundzero areas for world-class dining in North America, with outstanding culinary experiences and chefs located on almost every block. If a restaurant can make it here, it can make it anywhere.

And that’s what makes the success of Oretta even more impressive since its opening in 2017, when acclaimed Toronto restaurateur Salvatore Mele, owner of The Mele Group, decided to branch south from his successful and long-established Capocaccia on Yonge Street, south of St. Clair Avenue, to open Oretta, located at 633 King St. W. in Toronto.

“We had been looking around for a little while,” says Mele. “We were looking to do something bigger, and this location could give us two floors and more than 250 seats, so when it became available we jumped on it. We were looking for a downtown flagship, front and centre, to draw a lot of people and to give The Mele Group a stronger www.mycitylife.ca

Oct/Nov 2019

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presence in the city. The name Oretta we decided upon was short, sweet and stylish; it loosely means ‘an hour’ in Italian.”

An hour is the least amount of time anyone will want to spend in this stylish and delicious space. Big, bright, bold and open, its design is both captivating and commanding, and certainly a standout among Toronto’s leading restaurants.

“I find many restaurants are sometimes dark,” says Mele. “I travel a lot, and style and fashion are an interest of mine. In New York City, I saw some elements that interested me and colour palettes that I shared with our designer.

I call this ‘transitional contemporary’ in an Italian thematic — modern and old together — with arches and an art deco feel. It’s something that is popping, wacky and different.”

Knowing his business as well as he does, Mele knew the type of pressure Oretta would be under to succeed along King West, and in his mind, the area itself played to his new venture’s advantage.

“King West is one of the busiest areas of Toronto, and that’s good,” says Mele.

“If other restaurants in the area are busy, 28

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I call this ‘transitional contemporary’ … it’s something that is popping, wacky and different — Salvatore Mele

people might pop into Oretta to have a drink and decide to stay and eat. My school of thought is to cultivate the neighbourhood because King West is so successful. We probably wouldn’t be this busy if King West weren’t so busy, and we like having a lot of eyeballs on us, as it keeps our food and service at the top of its game.”

Additionally, and as was always a part of Mele’s plan for Oretta, there was an aim to “put more things on the table” than a usual restaurant.

Oretta is also an event venue hosting corporate parties and private VIP Chef Experiences. “I identified a shortage of downtown restaurants that had event space. We understand theatrics and added a Presentation Kitchen upstairs, so people can see who is preparing their food, and it works so well for social media sharing,” says Mele.

In charge of that food aspect is executive chef Gabriele Di Marco, a man comfortable in charge of a busy kitchen or commanding the centre of the main room while speaking with his diners.

A native of Sicily, Italy, his love of discovery with food found him www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ORETTA RESTAURANT

Executive chef Gabriele Di Marco brings his Sicilian heritage to his fresh, traditional cooking and inspired menus at Oretta

foraging for porcini mushrooms and wild asparagus as early as eight years old. He has worked at top kitchens in southern Italy and Australia; cooked classic French cuisine on Vancouver Island and Thai food in Bangkok; and has been in Toronto for eight years as chef at The Mele Group’s Capocaccia.

He understands the market well.

“In Toronto, people are busy and they are looking for a meal they could have at home,” says Di Marco. “Here, we have good food and service. It is like your mom is cooking for you, but in a more refined restaurant setting.”

Growing up in Sicily, Di Marco’s mother would be up at 6 a.m. to begin cooking lunch, then clean the dishes and begin preparing dinner. His love of cooking comes from an honest place of experience and his love of people is genuine. At Oretta, he can connect both these passions through special Chef ’s Menu and Private VIP Chef Experiences.

“The Chef ’s Menu Experience is a seven-course tasting menu, and I greet the guests at their table to tell them what they’re having and again to ask how they liked it. And yes, I’ve gotten some great feedback from those talks,” says Di Marco. “The Private Chef ’s Experience we do once a month, which is very popular and is farm-to-table six courses with the freshest ingredients.

My greatest pleasure is to see the expression on the faces [of the diners] as they experience the food.”

Oretta is southern Italian cooking at its very best, using the best oils, meats and produce, and leaving them in their own natural beauty. Southern Italian cooking is also emotional to Oretta’s owner.

“Southern Italian feels like home to me, where life revolves around food and family, sitting down together with other people and bringing people together,” says Mele. “It’s the art of making it together and enjoying it together.”

At Oretta on King Street West, southern Italian cooking has found a home to be enjoyed and experienced, together. www.oretta.to @orettatoronto www.mycitylife.ca

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Architecture

NEW LIFE

After two years of intense renovations, Hotel Birks sets a new precedent for Montrealâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Phillips Square WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

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PHOTO BY

BY ADRIEN ADRIEN WILLIAMS WILLIAMS PHOTO

GIVING A LANDMARK

PHOTO BY ADRIEN WILLIAMS PHOTO BY ADRIEN WILLIAMS

The renovations celebrate the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich history, while updating design details and overcoming known issues

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EUF architect(e)s, one of the largest architecture and design firms in Canada, has completed two years of major renovations on Hotel Birks in Montreal.

The hotel was originally designed

by Edward Maxwell, a renowned Montreal architect, in 1894 for Henry www.mycitylife.ca

Birksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jewelry store. Since then it has undergone a number of alterations and improvements that threatened its preservation. In 2016, the building was purchased by hotelier Jean Salette, who, with a team of professionals, wanted to restore the landmark to a luxury boutique hotel that celebrated its origins, preserved its prestige and came

complete with a French brasserie.

NEUF architect(e)s was that team of professionals and, in collaboration with designer Nicole Vekemans, began restoring the building. The work undertaken has been done in a way that preserves the existing historical elements, while updating and rectifying known issues. The storefront windows, Oct/Nov 2019

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PHOTO BY WM. NOTMAN & SON 1922, 20TH-CENTURY VIEW-20563 ©MCCORD MUSEUM

obstructed over time, were completely restored, and the interior elevator was relocated to better enhance the visual connection to the square.

The building’s upper floors were converted from office space to 132 new rooms, each of which has its own distinct qualities, and the top of the building is now home to a two-storey glass addition, which strives to evoke the essence of the original jewelry store. Improvements were made below ground, too, with disused mechanical rooms and vaults beneath the hotel converted into a spa.

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“Giving life to this unique landmark that has been part of Montreal’s urban landscape for almost 125 years is an accomplishment we are very proud of,” says Marion Thiébaux of NEUF architect(e)s in a statement. “These major restoration efforts not only renew the building’s function, but also make it more accessible to the public.”

On the ground floor, a new restaurant has also opened. Titled Henri Brasserie Française, it was created by Salette in collaboration with l’Atelier Zébulon Perron and serves seasonal gourmet and comfort dishes inspired by the timeless

traditions of French brasseries.

When the building originally opened as Henry Birks and Sons, it was one of the first businesses established around Phillips Square. Situated alongside Morgan’s department store, today known as Hudson’s Bay, and the city’s first art gallery, it was a square that set the standard for what was to come.

Today, with renovations complete and the hotel rich with history, it not only reasserts its presence on the square locally, but acts as a new beacon for people on an international stage. www.neufarchitectes.com www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTOS BY ADRIEN WILLIAMS

Designed by Edward Maxwell in 1894, the building originally served as Henry Birks’s jewelry store, alongside Montreal’s first art gallery

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A DV E R TO R I A L

CYCLEWORX CUSTOM MOTORCYCLES The Leading Choice in the Customization World

W

hen it comes to dedication to a special interest, it’s tough to beat the pride and passion of motorcyclists.

And feeding that passion is Cycleworx Custom Motorcycles in Concord, Ont., where for more than 25 years, Angelo DiPardo and his team of skilled technicians and custom fabricators build, service, restore and customize the finest bikes for a most demanding group of clientele.

Bikers are a unique band of adventurers. Not only do they enjoy the look, power and sound of their bikes, but they also enjoy the freedom that a two-wheeled “sweet ride” provides: the ability to explore parts of the countryside

Angelo DiPardo and his team have been servicing, restoring and customizing bikes for more than 25 years

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in a special way that regular vehicle drivers cannot. No one understands their passion and motorcycle needs better than DiPardo, a self-made and self-taught success story.

“During my lunch hours at high school, I would hang out at a nearby automotive shop which repaired and restored exotic vintage vehicles,” recalls DiPardo. “That’s where I developed my love for Italian cars, and I brought that same passion to bikes.”

Today, Cycleworx specializes in custom fabrication, maintenance, restoration and troubleshooting of motorcycles such as Harley-Davidson, Indian and Big V-Twin Customs and Italian cars such as Ferrari. Its dedicated client base wouldn’t take their pride and joy anywhere else,

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PHOTOS BY CARLOS A. PINTO

Whether it’s Angelo DiPardo’s passion or his team’s unparalleled knowledge, there’s a reason Cycleworx clients are so loyal

IT NEVER SEEMS “ LIKE A BUSINESS

TRANSACTION BECAUSE OF THE PERSONAL TOUCH. A SATURDAY AT CYCLEWORX IS LIKE HANGING OUT AT YOUR OWN GARAGE

”

— Paul, a customer

Cycleworx has applied its expertise to everything from HarleyDavidson motorcycles to Ferrari cars

and the business has grown by word of mouth and referrals due to its high level of expertise and customer service.

“I’ve had two bikes built there, and the first things that stand out from everybody else is the quality of work and the atmosphere; Angelo is like a brother,” says customer Paul Vijayasingham. “It never seems like a business transaction because of the personal touch. A Saturday at Cycleworx is like hanging out at your own garage.”

Cycleworx has grown to become a one-stop shop conveniently located three minutes from major roadways such as highways 400, 407 and 7.

It does complete design and custom-builds, restorations, repairs, tune-ups, diagnostics, motor works, troubleshooting, fabrications, paint and bodyworks, and even offers pickup services for motorcycles.

For a certified licensed mechanic like DiPardo, the pride of craftsmanship and care he takes in his services are always handled personally. “For me, it’s

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not about the money. It’s more about the passion — that’s my definition of success,” he says. “I like working with my hands and building things. I like challenges and fixing problems and creating something out of nothing until it all comes together.”

“It’s the personal level DiPardo brings to his work,” adds another customer, Nat Pietrangelo. “He’s very welcoming and upfront as a shop owner and doesn’t try to upsell anything. His repeat business is a testament to his relationships, which go such a long way with his customers.”

His character traits, which so impress his customers, are also reflected in other ways. As a tribute to the wife of a friend who had been diagnosed with cancer, Cycleworx built out a beautiful custom bike, aptly named Pinky-Up to tour it at shows and raise cancer awareness. The award-winning bike design has been shown at the Hospital for Sick Children and many community events and always solicits a very emotional response. So much for that “tough biker” stereotype.

DiPardo gets a great deal of satisfaction out of his work, and there are special moments which mean so much to him, such as going for a ride with his employees and customers after work. Or some evenings he’ll work late into the night, tinkering on a project, and customers may drop by.

“Having conversations with my customers at night when they come by and I’m building a bike are very special,” says DiPardo. “Sometimes they’ll bring their kids, and it becomes more like a night out than working.”

Here is a man who adores his work, and that is why his customers are so faithful to Cycleworx Custom Motorcycles.

www.cycleworx.ca @cycleworx_custom_motorcycles Oct/Nov 2019

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A DV E R TO R I A L

Joe Tiano with his partner and son, Louie

CUSTOM HOMES WITH COMMUNITY SPIRIT

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

A family known for their deep familial loyalty and dedication to hard work, the Tiano family is a generational success and a well-respected name in the home-building industry

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I

f you were to look up the meanings of “determination” and “tenacity” in the Canadian Oxford Dictionary, you might very well find a picture of Joe Tiano, supersized and bold.

“Our family was very poor,” says Tiano, president of Cassavia Estate Homes and Brookshore Homes. “My dad, Luigi, and my mom, Sestina, immigrated to Canada, broke and in debt, when they were 20 and 18, respectively. I was only six months old.”

Luigi, who worked as a labourer, eventually started his own contracting business, Goldstar General Contracting, over 40 years ago. He worked in the evenings and at nights doing renovations to keep his family afloat. Filled with a burning passion to be a home builder, Tiano followed in his father’s footsteps, leaving school in Grade 10 to work as a labourer for several GTA builders.

Hardworking and driven, it wasn’t long before he’d started his own company, Cassavia Estate Homes. “I named the company in honour of a good friend of mine, Agostino Cassavia,” Tiano says. Strategically joining forces — a father-and-son team — Luigi closed his contracting company and came to work with his son at Cassavia Estate Homes.

As a driven self-starter, with ambition to burn, Tiano was motivated to succeed by his childhood experiences — his family was poor, money was tight and there weren’t many opportunities to enjoy life’s little extras. “It also comes from knowing, understanding and being willing to do whatever it takes to get to the top,” Tiano says. “I let nothing come between me and my goals — absolutely nothing.”

As Tiano learned the building trade, he started to network with a wide and diverse range of people. His ambition and desire to get to the top was noted by a lot of people. Eventually, Tiano met one of the largest independent land developers in Ontario, Peter Cipriano, developer and CEO of Goldpark Group.

“Over the last 18 years, I have been buying all of my land in the GTA area for Cassavia Homes through Peter. He continues to help me buy large areas of land to develop, which I am now doing with my son, Louie. We owe a lot of our success to Peter, who gave us the opportunity to purchase the land to

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Noble Square Townhomes, located in the heart of old Maple, Ont., offer custom and exclusive lifestyle options

Elegant and spacious, Noble Square Townhomes offer serene, sun-drenched living areas, wrapped in high-quality designs

OUR STANDARDS “ ARE OTHER BUILDERS’ UPGRADES

”

— Joe Tiano

develop and build our homes. And I’ve had the same tradespeople working for me for over 30 years.”

Cassavia Estate Homes, known for building non-cookie-cutter structures, has a driving buyer-centric mission, whose definitive motto is ‘From Our Family to Yours.’ “At the end of the day, we believe that a buyer’s home is theirs,

not ours. As such, we customize the changes a buyer wants — we will move things, make adjustments — whatever the buyer wants — at no charge,” Tiano says. “Our standards are other builders’ upgrades.”

After 20 years operating under the Cassavia banner, Tiano, and his son, Louie, have partnered together to found Brookshore Homes Ltd., which will be launching at the end of October. “We reached the end of an era with Goldstar Contracting; we have now reached the end of an era for Cassavia Estate Homes,” Tiano says.

“What has always impressed me most about Joe is his passion, work ethic and love for the building community,” Cipriano says. “I am excited to watch as Joe and his son, Louie, begin their new journey together with Brookshore Homes Ltd.

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I offer them my full support and encouragement on their new journey.”

A family-oriented business, Rose Marchese, Tiano’s sister, works in the office, and on average, brother and sister both work 12 and 15 hours a day. In fact, Tiano works these hours seven days a week.

The spirit of community is important to Tiano, and for that reason, he customizes the homes he builds in Ontario to reflect the communities in which they are being built. “For example, in the Brampton community we’ve built and customized the homes to reflect the ethnic background of that city. In Vaughan, we are building homes that align with the majority ethnic community there,” Tiano says.

Tiano speaks proudly of his three children, who are all entrepreneurs with their own businesses. Louie, Tiano’s partner at Brookshore Homes Ltd., also owns Core Athletic Clubs in King City, Ont. Tiano’s daughter, Alessandra, along with her husband, owns a dog grooming business in King City called All Dogged Up. And Erica, the youngest of Tiano’s three children, owns a hair salon, also in King City, called Central Hair Salon. “All of my kids are very hard-working, driven and determined. They were taught from an early age to work hard,” Tiano says.

Hard work, perseverance and a “be nice to everybody” approach are intrinsic core values for Tiano, who considers perseverance and dogged determination akin to breathing. In fact, humility and grit supersedes everything else for this passionate builder. “I will stop at nothing to actualize my goals,” he says. “After a development has been completed and all the sod has been laid, I enjoy taking a drive through the subdivision and revelling in what I see. I get my self-satisfaction from that.”

Brookshore Homes Ltd., which caters to the older generation, is in the midst of building a huge collection of bungalows, with lofts, in Kleinburg, Ont. “We decided to build communities for people who do not want to live in condos,” Tiano says.

“With our bungalows, seniors have the opportunity to live on their own, on one level.”

With a strong commitment to helping those who cannot help themselves, Tiano is a dedicated champion and

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Joe Tiano; and Peter Cipriano, founder of Goldpark Group

MY LEGACY IS TO “ BUILD BROOKSHORE INTO A COMPANY THAT WILL BE IN THE FAMILY FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

”

— Joe Tiano

Joe Tiano’s mom, Sestina, and his dad, Luigi

philanthropist for Sunnybrook Hospital, as well as for Parkinson’s.

“The Goldpark Group, led by Peter Cipriano, has donated $15 million to the Sunnybrook Hospital geriatric ward,” Tiano says. “Everybody forgets about the elderly.” Tiano is proud to be affiliated with Cipriano in helping raise money for Sunnybrook. “Giving back to Sunnybrook Hospital honours me, as they do so much for so many,” he says.

Tiano also has a personal connection to Parkinson’s disease. His father has Parkinson’s and his deceased mother-inlaw also had it.

Looking toward the future, Tiano is excited and keen to see where his and Louie’s new ventures will take them.

“My legacy is to build Brookshore into a company that will be in the family

for generations to come,” Tiano says. “I expect the future of Brookshore Homes Ltd. to be bright and successful. I have great visions for it. I also want to highlight that my family’s success is where it is today because of Peter Cipriano.

I dedicate the future of Brookshore to him.”

71 Marycroft Ave. Woodbridge, Ont. 289-474-5322 www.myprima.ca www.mycitylife.ca

ASK THE EXPERTS IN FINANCING WILL YOUR CHILDREN EVER BE ABLE TO AFFORD A HOME? IF THIS CONCERNS YOU…YOU’RE NOT ALONE. As parents we want our children to be successful. We nurture and support them through school and encourage them to follow their dreams, but when it’s time to leave the nest – where will they live? Rent these days is barely affordable and the dream of homeownership is often beyond their reach.

The Federal Government is trying to help young Canadians enter the housing market with the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive. Buyers need at least 5% of their own money for down payment, total applicant annual income cannot exceed $120,000, and the maximum mortgage is 4 times the annual income. The government will kick in an additional 5% down payment on the purchase of resale properties, and 10% on new construction. There are no monthly payments – but the incentive must be repaid in 25 years or when the home is sold. Repayment will be 5% or 10% of the market value at the time of repayment.

Will this incentive help your children? It could – but in the largest Canadian cities it’s hard to find properties priced low enough to make this incentive work.

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HOW PARENTS CAN HELP THEIR CHILDREN BUY A HOME

Parents can gift money, co-sign or become a guarantor. There are several mortgage options available today where parents can use their own principal residence or other properties as equity to help their children. In addition, depending on the age of the parents, a reverse mortgage can help them gift money from their estate, while they are still alive and continue living in their home – without having to make mortgage payments. Our experts can help you with custom strategies to achieve your goals.

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Oct/Nov 2019

2019-09-25 3:28 PM

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A selection of objects dedicated to style, individually picked and recommended by the editor WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

EDITOR’S PICKS

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jewelry and timepiece brand David Yurman, this tag is finished finished in American turquoise detailing www.davidyurman.com

6. DAVID YURMAN STERLING SILVER STREAMLINE TAG: Designed by luxury

need to start cooking wood-fired wood-fired food all year round www.ciaobellapizzaovens.com

5. STAINLESS STEEL OUTDOOR PIZZA OVEN: This oven provides everything you

Inspired by the belief that ambrosia was the sustenance of the Greek gods, and would grant immortality to those who drank it, Gucci’s new fragrance blends jasmine bud extract, tuberose and Rangoon creeper www.gucci.com

www.martindanielinteriors.com 4. GUCCI BLOOM AMBROSIA DI FIORI:

comfortable as it is contemporary, the fabric armchair’s design is elevated by its asymmetric back and soft fabrics

www.educatedbeards.ca 3. VOLTA FABRIC ARMCHAIR: As

materials and accessories, NIICO takes a personalized approach to creating millwork for its clients www.niico.com 2. BOOK OF BEARDS: Co-owned by a holistic nutritionist and a Canadian Armed Forces combat veteran, Educated Beards’ products are 100 per cent natural, organic and founded on intense research

1. NIICO: By using the highest-quality

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7. LITTLE BEAR BACKPACK: Get playful with the teddy-bear-shaped backpack, complete with zip-closed compartments and adjustable shoulder straps www.zara.ca 8. BLACK CHRONO WATCH: Designed with Japanese quartz movement and featuring a strap made from Italian cowhide leather, this multifunctional watch is water-resistant up to 50 metres www.massimodutti.ca 9. ACTIVE SITTING STOOLS: Designed to encourage people to sit as nature intended, ErgoErgo’s stools activate your core which, in turn, relieves your spine and activates your breathing www.ergoergo.com 10. LINED PUFFER JACKET: Available for those between six and 14 years, these hooded jackets with interior fleece lining will have your little ones welcoming the winter in style www.zara.ca 11. HEXA POWER HIGH SPEED BLENDER: With features that include six blades, a powerful 1,600W motor and easy one-touch preprogrammed options, this blender is an ideal addition to any kitchen www.hurom.ca 12. 2019 JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED SUV: The Wrangler is known as Canada’s most capable offroad SUV for good reason. With state-of-the-art engineering and purpose-built design details, this vehicle is automotive design at its finest www.zanchinauto.com 13. MERINO WOOL PLAIN SWEATER: Fuse functionality and style with Massimo Dutti’s wool round-neck sweater, made with 100 per cent merino wool www.massimodutti.ca

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Sustainability Christal Earle founded Brave Soles after coming across a landямБll of used tires in the Dominican Republic

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRAVE SOLES

REINVENTING THE WHEEL

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As well as focusing on the environment, Earle has provided fair-paying, safe jobs for people in the region

By turning used tires into footwear and fashion accessories, Brave Soles has become a brand founded on innovation, sustainability and philanthropy WRITTEN BY NICKOLAS LOMBARDI

www.mycitylife.ca

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o many Canadians, the Dominican Republic is renowned for being an affordable destination spot to escape the cold. There’s nothing better than relaxing on a beautiful beach and enjoying the amenities of an allinclusive resort. But what we may forget about or even be unaware of is what goes on beyond the travel and tourism aspect of the country — the majority of citizens in the Dominican Republic are severely poor.

But one Canadian, Christal Earle, and her company, Brave Soles, are making a positive impact through humanitarian and environmental work — by using fashion. Brave Soles is a fashion company that reuses old rubber tires and unused plane parts to create its sandal and accessory lines. The company’s head office is in Toronto,

but its manufacturing plant is in the Dominican Republic. The inspiration behind creating Earle’s company is one of wanting to make a difference. When Earle was in the Dominican Republic working with another organization, she came across a large landfill of used tires.

After learning more about the harmful effects that tires create for our planet, she came up with the idea to transform the old rubber tires into a fashion line.

Through Earle’s research and previous experience doing charitable work in the Dominican Republic, she found out that the landfill of tires was a breeding ground for mosquitoes carrying deadly diseases. And let’s not forget that tires are a toxic nightmare when set on fire.

By taking that entrepreneurial knowledge into account and combining it with her many years of humanitarian work, Earle has created a company that Oct/Nov 2019

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There’s no difference between my life and the ones of my employees; they’re both equally valuable

not only helps the environment in the Dominican Republic, but has also created fair-paying jobs for locals, providing a clean and safe work environment complete with vacation time for workers. And she started all this with

only the income she had at the time — $250. “Most of these companies think from the top to the bottom and really don’t appreciate the people working for them. As a leader, I really encourage my employees to negotiate with us and tell

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us what they need, whether it be more vacation time or materials,” says Earle.

“We negotiate as two people who both realize everyone’s self-worth to the overall success of the company. And there’s no difference between my life and the ones of my employees; they’re both equally valuable.”

On top of all of this, Earle is also a mother to her adopted daughter, Widlene. Knowing the young girl’s mother before she passed away, Earle took on a huge role of becoming a mom to this young, innocent child. “When I first became a mom, there was no romantic transition time. When my daughter came into my life she was four, and we didn’t speak the same language. I was also in a marriage that was in crisis, and I didn’t have any confidence. I didn’t have that nine-month period to get myself emotionally ready. I woke up one morning and I was a mom. But nothing compares to having a family, and having a family of your own is beautiful.”

Female entrepreneur, humanitarian, environmentalist and mom: these are all titles that Earle holds. But her true title should be Wonder Woman. Christal Earle is just another hard-working Canadian doing good acts in a foreign country. Her work should not only be recognized, but also greatly applauded. www.bravesoles.life @bravesoles.life www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAVE SOLES

The company is the result of Earle’s entrepreneurship and previous humanitarian work

A DV E R TO R I A L

KYOSHI COS VONA ON USING KARATE AS A MEANS FOR CHANGE

With more than 40 years’ experience in a multitude of martial arts, the director of Rutherford’s Northern Karate School talks about training leaders and not followers, and why karate has become so important in the age of social media

Vona imparting valuable bits of wisdom with his students after class

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escribed as a vehicle for self-discovery and positive change, Northern Karate Schools has been sharing its martial arts expertise since it was founded in 1972. Today, with 15 locations across the GTA, as well as several international schools, its students don’t just learn the art of karate, but also the self-respect, discipline and commitment needed to become better people.

For Kyoshi Cos Vona, director of Rutherford’s Northern Karate School, what makes martial arts so transformative is the fact that it’s so personal. “We give people the ability to transform themselves and push themselves out of their comfort zone,” he explains. “Part of martial arts is being comfortable when it’s not comfortable.”

For those just starting karate, Vona explains that the classes can be more physical in nature, but as time passes and your knowledge grows, it becomes more about mindset than anything else. “When you start karate, it’s 80 per cent physical, 20 per cent mental,” he continues. “As time goes on, that becomes 80 per cent mental, 20 per cent physical.” So, as well as teaching the fundamental techniques of karate, Northern Karate Schools prides itself on

www.mycitylife.ca

EVERYBODY TALKS “ ABOUT DISCIPLINE

AND RESPECT, BUT IT’S ABOUT HAVING SELF-DISCIPLINE AND SELF-RESPECT FIRST

”

teaching other fundamental qualities.

“Everybody talks about discipline and respect, but it’s about having selfdiscipline and self-respect first. If you don’t respect yourself, it’s very difficult to respect others,” says Vona.

Especially in today’s plugged-in culture, where social media and online influence have taken hold, those qualities are invaluable, and Vona is keen to introduce them to his sessions.

“With social media, anybody today can make a comment or critique, so it’s more important than ever to have those qualities,” he says. “I just finished a camp with some of our younger black belts and brown belts, and we discussed that. People make a lot of noise, and normally it’s because they’re tearing you down, not building you up. I try to help them understand that it’s seven times

down, eight times up. You have to get back up and keep going.”

As a result, it comes as no surprise that those who take part in the classes find themselves becoming leaders rather than followers, and they are able to stand for the morals in which they believe.

“You don’t want to become a follower and end up in the wrong place because you don’t have the personal strength or courage to break away, even if you know it’s wrong,” Vona explains. “That’s how kids get themselves in trouble.”

For those who want to get into karate, but are unsure whether or not to make the commitment, Vona says it’s a case of just going for it. “There are all these obstacles you can put in the way, but eventually you have to take the plunge.

The first and hardest thing you have to do is walk through the door.”

NORTHERN

KARATE SCHOOLS

For school locations, visit www.northernkarate.com

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lifestyle

THE ARTFUL

HOMEMAKER

PHOTOS BY CLIVE NICHOLAS PHOTOS BY CLIVE NICHOLAS

Having a passion for crafts and the handmade has led one well-travelled couple to create an idyllic country haven WRITTEN BY JACKY HOBBS

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Formerly a second kitchen, this room is now used as an informal dining and flower room. The existing cabinetry has been refreshed and shelving added. The Swedish-spruce church pews were sourced from a reclamation yard and the table used to be a barn door. The impressionist painting is by Belgian artist Maurice Legrand, Karina’s grandfather

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arina Rickards is one of those extraordinary people capable of turning an artistic hand to almost anything. Her passion for art, colour and creativity is evident throughout her home, a Grade II listed six-bedroom farmhouse in Somerset. “My husband Charles and

www.mycitylife.ca

I had previously patched up, painted and sold on previous houses, but this country farmhouse, with its views of the Mendips, spoke of permanence and home,” she says. Born in Normandy, France, to a Belgian father and an English mother, Karina grew up surrounded by art and craftwork. Her grandfather, Maurice Legrand, was

an impressionist painter whose work adorned the walls of her childhood home and now those of her own home.

Her father, a skilled carpenter, restored French thatch and timber houses, inspiring her to respect tradition, value craftsmanship and live life to the fullest: when Karina was 17 he threw caution to the wind and sailed the family Oct/Nov 2019

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FASHION

The walls in the master bedroom are painted in New White by Farrow & Ball. The polished wood antique wardrobe and bed came from Dairy House Antiques in Shaftesbury, Dorset. The red lacquer chests came from Wells Reclamation in Wells, Somerset

(including Karina’s two brothers) to the Caribbean on a 52-foot yacht that he had built in their garden.

It was during the two years she spent in the Caribbean that Karina met Charles when they were both on racing yachts moored in Antigua. Together they moved to England where her can-do attitude led to a varied career, including being a window dresser for Cartier and Kenzo, a bilingual PA at French bank Société Générale, and a 48

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prop, puppet and costume maker for Salisbury Playhouse theatre. The latest string Karina has added to her bow is teaching herself the skill of handpainting ceramic kitchenware following the purchase and revival of the renowned Cornishware pottery company by her husband Charles and three colleagues.

Add to this a vast repertoire of traditional country homemaking skills and the essence of the Rickards’ home starts to become apparent. “We have

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1. The Grade II listed, 16th-century farmhouse has Georgian and Victorian additions. The walls and bookcases in the sitting room are painted in Farrow & Ball’s Stone Blue. This larger-proportioned room is in the Georgian part of the farmhouse. The velvet sofa is from Sofa.com 2. Family artwork decorates the walls along with personal mementoes and keepsakes. The flowers came from Georgie Newbery at Common Farm Flowers where Karina how to grow for her cutflower garden

five children [aged between eight and 23], 23 sheep, a beehive, six egglaying chickens, several guinea fowl (great guard dogs), a Cavalier King Charles spaniel called Rosie and a slightly overweight, not-very-working cocker spaniel called Humbug,” says Karina, who also makes her own honey, grows cut flowers for her home and loves to cook. “I whip up endless, easy AGA one-pot wonders,” she says. The property is on land that has been owned and farmed by the Knights of St. John since the 12th century and was the last remaining farmstead to be sold. When the Rickards purchased it in 2011 it had suffered years of neglect at the hands of tenant farmers. “Structurally it was solid but it was riddled with poor and makeshift repairs,” says Karina.

Determined to make the kitchen the heart of the family home, Karina “upwww.mycitylife.ca

A DV E R TO R I A L

styled” the larger of the two kitchens in the house, salvaging the Belfast sink and the original carcasses and adding new doors and work surfaces. Appreciating her father’s ethos of preferring to restore rather than discard, Karina says, “I wanted the new to meld perfectly with the old, so went with the builder to a reclamation yard and hand-picked every brick and plank myself. I wanted old wood, complete with its beautiful imperfections.”

Meanwhile, in the second, smaller kitchen, Karina reconfigured some of the cabinetry to give it the appearance of a large dresser, the shelves of which are filled with redand-white-striped Cornishware and a collection of Victorian

If it’s beautiful, I wish to own it

Angela Martino, founder of Neece Electrolysis

NEECE ELECTROLYSIS bottles unearthed from their previous home, a former pub in Wiltshire. “Whenever I dug in the garden, I upturned lovely old bottles,” she explains. The rest of the room – decorated with family sculptures, carvings and paintings by herself, her grandfather and her children – is for relaxed dining and convivial conversation. Having decided that “chairs are an utter nuisance for a family of seven,” Karina resolved the issue of countless broken chairs and poor table access by installing “the toughest old Swedish-spruce church pews. The dining table, made from a sixteenth-century barn door, is equally robust.” Further putting her talents to use, Karina also made the curtains throughout the house. “The wind whistles through the stone mullion windows, so curtains need thick interlining if we are to survive the winters.”

A roaring fire draws the family to the comfort of the sitting room in winter; in summer they head for the snug, which was a small courtyard that has been incorporated into the home with sliding doors leading to the garden. “This cosy room, just off the kitchen, relies heavily on winter warmth from the AGA, but is bathed in sunshine come spring and summer,” Karina explains. “It has also created a direct shortcut to the sitting room. The alternative route trespassed through every other downstairs room on the way. Previously no one had any peace or privacy.” Each room, upstairs and down, is colourful and bedecked with family art, heirlooms and “irresistible curiosities.” “If it’s beautiful, I wish to own it,” says Karina, “but it does need to be different. I don’t want what other people have. I appreciate pieces that are handcrafted, artisan, woven, hand-turned, sculpted, gilded, painted – the simplicity of the homemade.” Karina’s home speaks volumes about her upbringing and her personality, as well as her energy, artistry and eye for colour and detail. Her contribution to the handpainted traditional Cornishware makes her feel proud to be a part of the team of artisans and craftsmen whose work she collects and admires.

FASHION

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hen Angela Martino was 15, a hormone imbalance caused what she describes as “an excessive amount of hair on my face,” which led to embarrassment and low self-esteem. But Martino found a solution that helped her through it. “I started electrolysis treatments, which raised my self-confidence and put me on a journey to help others going through the same difficulty,” she says.

Today, Martino, the founder of Neece Electrolysis, has become a certified laser technician and electrologist. Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved permanent hair removal system that has the ability to target all skin and hair types, delivering effective results for both men and women.

1. Is electrolysis permanent?

Electrolysis is the only permanent method of hair removal recognized and approved by the FDA. 2. How many electrolysis treatments are required to obtain permanent hair removal?

The number of sessions will vary from person to person. Call Angela for a personal consultation to learn more.

3. How do you decide between electrolysis and laser hair removal?

Electrolysis can remove both light and dark hair. Laser hair removal treats dark hair. Angela will meet with you and advise you on what method is best.

Neece Electrolysis 9B-80 Carlauren Rd., Woodbridge, Ont. 905-856-8808 | www.neecelectrolysis.ca @neecelectrolysis Oct/Nov 2019

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business success

SANREMO BAKERY CAFE:

THE PRIDE AND PASSION OF A FAMILY BUSINESS The romance, pride, care and skill of the Bozzo family have made SanRemo Bakery Cafe a treasured tradition in Etobicoke

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here are many industries in the world which are considered tough and competitive, but few match the restaurant industry. Various studies have shown that 60 per cent of restaurants fail to survive the first three years in business, with the majority closing in their first year. And that statistic makes the success of SanRemo Bakery Cafe, located at 374 Royal York Rd., and celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, even more notable, as it cements its position as a tradition and landmark in its Etobicoke, Ont., neighbourhood.

The business was founded in 1969 by Natale Bozzo, along with his brothers Giuseppe, Peter and Giancarlo. Natale moved to Canada from Italy when he was just 15 years old, and an opportunity came up to purchase a business, which became SanRemo Bakery Cafe. Though 50

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he passed the business on to his sons Edward, Nick and Robert 25 years ago, Natale can still be seen baking bread and keeping an eye on things from time to time.

“The business was built on a great foundation by our father and his brothers to build a future for themselves and their families,” says oldest brother Nick, who handles business management. “We had to work hard when we joined, and the business always came first. For the longest time, I was just a cake decorator and then we started to grow. Life is a learning lesson, and you can’t work your business and manage your business at the same time, so I focused on growing the business.”

In the early days, SanRemo was known primarily for its sweets and breads, including doughnuts, pastries and cakes, and as a home to the romance of baking fresh bread and pastries by

artisans who took pride in their craft and poured their heart and soul into all of their creations. That romance still exists today and is a treasured neighbourhood tradition. After all, nothing smells better than a bakery.

“I like playing with breads, pastries and doughnuts — things I can create by thinking outside of the box,” says middle brother Edward, the head master baker. “Take doughnuts, for example, which run out like crazy here every day. I wake up every day thinking about what I can create to bring people in. And since we’re nearing Thanksgiving, and pies at that holiday are big, I thought about putting a pie in the middle of a doughnut, which we’ve done with a baked cherry crumble, and people absolutely love the concept. I wouldn’t put a product in the store if I didn’t believe in it.”

Today, what brings people in to www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

The Bozzo brothers; Robert, Nick and Edward are proudly carrying on father Nataleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion at SanRemo Bakery Cafe

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We get a lot of people who drive a long way to our business, so we’re very friendly service and quality of product. proud of As people are sometimes creatures habit, SanRemo never disappoints what we’ve ofin delivering for them. “We follow a routine of what sells on which days,” says accomplished Edward. “Like lasagna on Thursdays or

SanRemo Bakery Cafe after 50 years is considerable. Arlo Guthrie once sang, “You can get anything you want, at Alice’s Restaurant,” and the same may be said about SanRemo. Its menu is as diverse as you can possibly imagine, owing to the three Bozzo brother’s love fritters on Fridays. People seem to relate and respect for a wide variety of Italian to certain things on certain days, and we foods and the freshness of ingredients — always deliver that routine for them.”

— Robert Bozzo its trademark.

Robert, Edward and “As an owner, you Nick have continued need the business a Bozzo family to evolve as tastes tradition and made and demographics it thrive and succeed change,” says Edward. as a tribute to old“Yes, we’re an Italian world values and the bakery, but you have romance of handmade to accommodate craftsmanship and the customers and artistry. From getting always try to stay up at 4 a.m. on one step ahead of weekends as youngsters the competition. For to come in to the store example, we could to spend time with have four flavours of their father, each of doughnuts, but today them grew to like the we have more than 20 experience, the business flavours, as I always and the environment. listen to what the And that pride still customers want.” shines through today.

The quality of its “The quality is food is well-known always there,” says not only locally, but Nick proudly. “Even today my father will also across the Greater Edward enjoys thinking outside the box with his products and has experimented with the walk from the back Toronto Area. “At idea of putting pies in the middle of doughnuts of the store with least 30 to 40 per cent of our customers are what you would SanRemo will help local schools with bread he has baked with a level of call ‘regulars,’” says youngest brother fundraisers and support local churches pride that’s never changed. Today, our Robert, who manages the store. “But and sports teams, even donating cookies employees also have that pride and we get a lot of people who drive a long to SickKid’s hospital. “We’re a tight- love, and take care of the business as way to our business, so we’re very proud knit community in this area and we’re if it’s their own. A family business has of what we’ve accomplished. And we’re proud to be a part of it. We grew with family values, and we treat everyone proud to be an independent store, this neighbourhood and as it changed, like family.” so did we.” which employs many people.”

SanRemo is one of those rare www.sanremobakery.com Being a staple of the community also @sanremobakery means giving back, and Robert says places people can always count on for 52

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THE NEW ADDICTION PHOTO PHOTO BY

BY ALEKSANDR ALEKSANDR YU YU

The original intent of e-cigarettes — which was to help smokers reduce and ultimately quit smoking — has, instead, taken on a whole new life with youth vaping WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

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ow many times have you walked by a group of young people hanging out on a street corner or maybe outside a store, puffing away on what looks like a USB thumb drive or a pen, or what is known as a “Cig-a-Like?”

Your children might be with you as you hurry by, so you sniff the air wondering if that second-hand vapour, thicker than regular cigarette smoke, is tobacco, e-juice or weed, the latter of which, as of last fall, is now a legal substance.

It might be hard to tell whether the flavourful whiff you catch as you walk by is a new strain of marijuana or a custom vape e-juice bump.

So what exactly is vaping? Basically, it involves the same actions as smoking.

A person inhales and exhales vapour produced by electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or other similar devices.

The e-cigarette cartridges, which are battery powered, are filled with a liquid that usually contains nicotine, chemicals and a host of pleasing, select-your-favourite flavours. Once heated, the liquid turns into a vapour (which the smoker inhales); hence, the term vaping. E-cigarettes do not produce tobacco smoke per se, but rather an aerosol with components made up of fine particles containing varying amounts of toxic chemicals.

These, unfortunately, have been linked to both respiratory and heart issues.

“Nicotine contained in vapour products can be potentially addictive,” says Ministry of Health spokesperson David Jensen. “Addiction to nicotine in youth can lead to prolonged use of cigarettes or e-cigarettes, which are often associated with negative health impacts. For youth, vaping may have harmful impacts on the brain, affecting memory, concentration and brain development. Vaping may also potentially lead to respiratory illnesses among people who vaped nicotine or cannabis-related products, although more investigation is needed to determine the vaping agent or agents responsible.”

A number of factors contribute to the popularity of vaping with young people, including the “cool” factor, the www.mycitylife.ca

discreet size of the vaping mechanisms and a desire to fit in, or be perceived as one of the crowd. Of course, the custom fruit and candy flavours hold their own appeal. Popular e-juice flavours among young people are so reminiscent of their childhood, how can they resist?

Fruit Loops, gummy bears, SweetTarts, Kool-Aid, Rocket Pops, cotton candy and banana split are all flavours with which young vapers can identify.

And then there is Juul, the vaping device that is all the rage with young people, while at the same time being a major cause of anxiety for both parents and health authorities. Produced by San Francisco’s e-cigarette company Juul Labs, the Juul devices, often referred to as the “iPhone of vapourizers,” are different from other e-cigarettes in appearance. They are a sleek, nowyou-see-it-now-you-don’t accessory that can be palmed within even the daintiest of youths’ hands. Known for their high nicotine content, high cost, easy availability at gas stations and convenience stores (where young buyers are not offered advice or warnings as to the product’s inherent dangers) and the lack of tell-tale vapour plumes, the devices have cartridges called Juul pods, which contain approximately the same amount of nicotine as a pack of cigarettes. Of concern is that Juul does not offer a zero milligram nicotine option.

“Nicotine is highly addictive. And the dosage in some of these vaping devices is quite high — up to about 60 milligrams — versus the 20 milligrams, which has been regulated in other parts of the world,” says Terry Dean, President and CEO of the Canadian Lung Association. ‘There is evidence of issues around brain development in youth relative to the usage of vaping.

Certainly, we are highly concerned that we are introducing a whole new generation to smoking; it is quite frightening.”

Health Canada, in fact, has notified Ontario of three severe pulmonary disease incidents related to vaping through the Canadian Consumer Safety and Protection Act, although no cases have been confirmed.

“Up until August, there were isolated instances of different lung diseases

WE ARE HIGHLY CONCERNED THAT WE ARE INTRODUCING A WHOLE NEW GENERATION TO SMOKING; IT IS QUITE FRIGHTENING — Terry Dean, President and CEO, Canadian Lung Association

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that were reported in people who were vaping various things,” says Dr. Matthew Stanbrook, staff respirologist at the Toronto Western Hospital and chair of the Canadian Thoracic Society guideline panel on cannabis and respiratory health. “But in August, things changed. People were going to hospitals with acute lung illnesses, usually to the critical-care units. Onethird of cases required mechanical ventilation, with at least a dozen deaths reported in the [United] States. These cases involved a substantial number of people who were under the age of 18 [years]. This is unprecedented.”

Over the past 40 years, the government and many organizations — both in the health and social sectors — have been actively diligent around reducing smoking in all public buildings, parks, venues and restaurants.

In fact, as the number of smokers who butted out declined, people who lit up were regarded as social pariahs.

However, e-cigarettes seem to have a different aura attached to them and are perceived both as an aid to helping smokers quit (and less harmful overall) and more socially acceptable. But, while there has definitely being a significant reduction in the number of people who smoke cigarettes, there has also been a significant uptick in the number of youth who vape.

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the current estimate of retail and manufacturing vaping outlets number in excess of 800 and represent well over 5,000 employees, as well as hundreds of thousands of customers and $350 million in revenue.

“As a specialty vaping retailer, with informed professionals who are aware of what is in the products, our intent is to help people quit smoking cigarettes.

Vaping is a tool to aid in that process,” states Suria Ghafoori, who is currently doing outreach for the family-owned GTA Vapes, which has seven locations in the Greater Toronto Area, two of which are located in Woodbridge, Ont. “The reason vaping works so well is because it simulates the hand-tomouth sensation that a lot of smokers want. As a part of our mandate, we develop meaningful connections with our customers. We ask them why they want to quit, how long they have been smoking, as well as the quantity and frequency of their habit. The ultimate goal is to reduce the intake of nicotine on a consistent basis, until ultimately the nicotine count is at zero.”

According to a September 19, 2019, Time magazine article, a January 2019 U. S. study sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that “the increase in vaping in 2018 was the largest ever recorded for any substance in the 44 years” that it has tracked adolescent drug use.

And in Canada, the popularity of

vaping has literally burst into flames.

Since the popularization of vaping devices, youth vaping and smoking rates have risen for the first time in a generation. In a new study led

by Professor David Hammond of Ontario’s University of Waterloo and published in The British Medical Journal, it was reported that there has been a 74 per cent increase in Canadian youth who vape. In a single year (2017– 18), vaping among 16- to 19-year-olds increased to 14.6 per cent from 8.4 per cent, a 74 per cent increase year over year.

The side-effects of nicotine on critical organs are multilayered and of deep concern. The inhalation of vaping products has caused irreversible lung damage, blood clots, peptic ulcers and heart palpitations. For teens whose organs are not fully developed, the effects of nicotine are doubly worrisome.

The brain, the most complex organ in our bodies, is not fully developed until our mid-20s, so the effects of vaping relative to a teen’s brain development can include an impact on memory, concentration and learning — the exact tools needed to succeed throughout the formative learning years.

So what are some of the steps and measures that we, as parents, concerned citizens and adults who vape in the spirit of what vaping was originally intended for (that is, to reduce and eventually quit smoking altogether), should take to address what has been called in many circles an alarming epidemic, virtually a vaping tsunami?

First, we need to gather information around the scope and impact of vaping on teens, both physically and mentally.

In a September 18, 2019 statement Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Christine Elliott voiced her concern relative to the prevalence and possible health consequences of vaping, especially as it relates to youth: “For this reason, and as a first step toward identifying solutions that meaningfully respond to this emerging issue, I am issuing a Minister’s Order under section 77.7.1 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act, which will require public hospitals in Ontario to provide the Chief Medical Officer of Health with statistical, nonwww.mycitylife.ca

identifying information related to incidences of vaping-related severe pulmonary disease. This information, not previously available to the Ministry of Health, will be critical as we continue to engage with leading experts to identify evidencebased solutions that protect our youth from the potential dangers of vaping.”

Dean concurs. “Important questions need to be asked of the people who are going to hospital emergency rooms complaining of respiratory issues.” And “these questions should include: ‘What product were you smoking? How often do you use the product or device? Was it nicotine that was in the device? Did you alter the mechanism?’ We are desperate to find out what the root causes are for these latest issues. And once we do, we can put some strategies around it to mitigate it.”

Signs that vaping is taking a toll on

of products that they sell, the same rules do not apply to the distributors of vaping products.

At the very least, Dean feels that vaping devices should have similar requirements to tobacco reporting. And as far as those sexy lifestyle ads with their subliminal messages of “Be cool, be part of the crowd when you vape,” Dean says that “we have learned through the tobacco strategy that if we limit advertising, and we limit availability, usage is curbed.”

Banning advertising that appeals to youth, including portraying a lifestyle that is enhanced by using vape products, and being consciously aware of the effects of vaping on our youth are key to limiting the — Dr. Matthew Stanbrook alarming repercussions of this phenomenon, such as the severe a smoker include a cough, shortness of case of respiratory distress experienced breath, chest pain, nausea and vomiting. by a London, Ont., teenager, one that Interestingly, while tobacco had the youth on life support before he producers have to report the number eventually recovered.

PEOPLE WERE GOING TO HOSPITALS WITH ACUTE LUNG ILLNESSES, USUALLY TO THE CRITICALCARE UNITS

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MY MESSAGE TO PARENTS — WHETHER THEY ARE THINKING OF USING E-CIGARETTES THEMSELVES OR WORRIED ABOUT THEIR CHILDREN USING THEM — IS TO KNOW THAT THESE THINGS ARE NOT SAFE — Dr. Matthew Stanbrook

According to Ghafoori, e-commerce is another big issue around vaping that needs to be addressed. “One of the most common problems around online vape retail shops is that they do not have age verification on their sites.

An underage person can go onto a site, click the ‘I am 19’ age button and access product from there. If you can’t verify the age of an online buyer, then that is a way for underage kids to get product,” she says. (It should be noted, however, that Canada Post does have a service to verify identification if a retailer has implemented that system.)

Another issue that concerns Ghafoori is that the general public don’t know or understand there is a distinction between buying products from specialty

vape stores that are there to support people who want to quit smoking and underground THC markets. “What are being offered are two totally different products, and that is what is getting people sick,” she says. “With the black market THC vapes, it is dangerous because the buyer does not know who made it and what is in it. THC cartridges containing vitamin E acetate have been found, which is the substance that is making people sick. And because it is the black market, there are no regulations around the availability and purchasing of these products.”

It is imperative for all of us not to let the health, well-being and futures of today’s youth go up in smoke because we haven’t done due diligence to

implement the necessary and muchneeded regulations and oversight around advertising messages and enhanced website accountabilities.

“The vast majority of the public have been convinced, largely because of advertising, that these products are safe, that they don’t have to be worried about the side-effects of usage,” says Dr. Stanbrook. “Hopefully, now that we have this epidemic of cases, we will finally become aware that the assumptions that we have made about their safety just aren’t true. My message to parents — whether they are thinking of using e-cigarettes themselves or worried about their children using them — is to know that these things are not safe,” he says. “They have chemicals in them which are known to be toxic to human beings, some are even known to be carcinogenic [and] some of them are the same chemicals that appear in cigarettes, at lower levels.

E-cigarettes have been put on the market without any reasonable controls or limitations as to what can be put in them. Anyone who uses e-cigarettes is taking a gamble — there are a whole lot of unknowns and risks,” warns Dr. Stanbrook. “Youth need to be mindful and to know that this isn’t a safe thing to do. There can be many serious consequences, ones that have already landed people in hospital. This is just not a safe fun thing to do.” www.healthycanadians.gc.ca

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IT’S THE MYSTERY OF WHAT IS INSIDE World Demolition Award winners, the innovative, fun-loving family-owned Priestly Demolition is a force with which to be wrecking WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

The Salvage Kings (from left): Justin Fortin, Ryan Priestly, Ted Finch

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host whisperers. Safe crackers. Storytellers.

Laughter lovers. World Demolition Award winners. Ready, willing and able to take down buildings, bridges and lighthouses (not to mention anything else that needs to be flattened).

Meet Ryan Priestly, president of Priestly Demolition; Ted Finch, head of salvage www.mycitylife.ca

materials and equipment sales; and Justin Fortin, who is Finch’s right- and left-hand man. “Which leaves me a hands-free guy,” Fortin laughs.

Priestly Demolition, a family-owned business, has a staff who like to quip that they are a “force to be wrecking with”and are exceptionally passionate about all that they do. With a rambunctious love for fun and a ready-to-laugh spirit that

ripples throughout our conversation, the crew is nevertheless team tight and serious when they have to be — everyone’s safety on the job site is, of course, priority No. 1.

The challenges and the variety of work on the company’s many projects are what all three of our interviewees say they love about their jobs. “Every day there is some new challenge, with Oct/Nov 2019

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a lot of problem-solving involved. And in order to produce work quicker than other companies, we build our own specialty equipment,” Priestly says.

Finch, who has been with the company for eight years, loves the salvaging part of the business because he hates seeing junk going to landfills.

“I like to recycle and I like to salvage stuff and keep it out of landfills,” he says.

“I also like turning a buck.”

It is this philosophy of salvaging and ultimately uncovering treasures, discovering the diamonds in the rough, so to speak, that sparked interest in the creation of the team’s new show, Salvage Kings, which premiered Sept.

15 on the History Channel and is slated for 10 episodes. “You will not believe how handsome I am,” Fortin says with a laugh.

But the actual process of unearthing valuable items before the demolition trucks come in is one that is chaotically fast-paced and on the clock. “Sometimes we have only a half-day or a day to get into the building. It is a race against time, often without much notice. We are literally in the building and the demolition team is starting to wreck at the other end,” Finch says.

The No. 1 skill set for salvaging is knowing the market and the value of an item, followed by both how the team is going to get the piece out and how much that is going to cost. And while money is always a factor when running a business, one of the things that Finch loves most about salvaging is following items that have been sold. “Every time I go into a building I wonder, ‘Who lived here?’ I like to feel that out; I love the story behind the story. I love seeing the different paints, or maybe there might be a marking on the closet wall from a kid being measured when he was growing up. I find something in every building and I think, ‘I have to look into this more,’” Finch says. “It piques my interest — it’s a part of me now.”

And while neither Finch nor Fortin want to spoil the fun around the found treasures profiled in their show, they mention uncovering a log cabin inside of a house they were about to demolish.

Neither of them, when questioned, however, claims to know how it got there. “Tune in to our show,” Finch says.

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Every day there is some new challenge, with a lot of problemsolving involved.

And in order to produce work quicker than other companies, we build our own specialty equipment — Ryan Priestly

Other bizarre items uncovered in the demolition process include a formaldehyde-preserved hand in a jar found in the basement of a hospital.

“We took the jar to the meeting with the owners and consulting firm and said, ‘Here’s your jar back. We are getting paid to tear down the building, not dispose of body parts,’” Finch says. “The guys were freaked out about it.”

Finch also says that a lot of the buildings are haunted, but he finds that most of the ghosts are friendly. “I just say, ‘Get out of here — the big machines are coming,’” he says with a laugh.

“I walk into a building, and Ted is talking to spirits,” Fortin adds. “I was weirded out at first, but now we just tell the ghosts, ‘We are not here to hurt you.’”

One of the spookiest places that Priestly was involved in demolishing was the old Don Jail. “Walking around and seeing the cells, and knowing that there were three people to each cell, that was really eerie,” Finch says. “But we have sold a few hundred cell doors from that jail.”

Experience and the fact that Finch has, from the time he was a kid, always been into old things and assessing their value are big pluses. As an antique dealer and a restoration expert, he has been to hundreds of auctions and watched the trends — how things are valued. “You have to keep up with what people want and what the design trends are,” he says.

Of course, how could a person be immersed in the uncovering of newfound treasures on a daily basis and not end up as a collector of the weird, wonderful and abstract? “I’m really into nostalgic items, things like soda machines and toys,” Finch says.

“You should have seen his face when he found this toy,” Fortin says. “It is just so much better finding something than buying it.”

Finch also loves century safes, and Fortin is the man to drill through them to discover what’s inside. “Safes always get my blood pressure going. But if I found a million dollars in one of them, I don’t know if I’d tell you,” Finch laughs.

“It is the pirate in all of us.”

As with most intriguing self-made successes, Priestly Demolition, originally called Vic Priestly Contracting Limited, was started by Ryan’s dad, Vic, more than 40 years ago. “My dad quit school halfway through Grade 10 because he couldn’t find the people to keep up with the snow removal contracts he had,” Priestly says. “After he moved to the Aurora, Ont., area in 1969, when he was 20, he got an appetite for other work — landscaping, grading, things like that. In the early 1980s he won a contract to take down a couple of houses. At that time, salvaging was a big deal, and we had a property with a big barn on it that Dad would fill. By 1988, Dad had started a small demolition business, and in 1993 he joined the union. Twenty-five years later, here we are.”

From an original staff of 10, the company now employs 300 people.

While the overall market has grown, the fact that Priestly Demolition is so diversified separates the company from its competition. “We do not work in one silo,” Priestly says. “Along with demolition work, we do concrete crushing, work by the hour, equipment rentals and salvaging. We are not afraid to travel, either — we’ve gone www.mycitylife.ca

to Thunder Bay, Ont., Ottawa, Prince Edward Island and Virginia,” he says.

“There are jobs that people don’t have a clue as to how to do, and Ryan will figure it out with the team,” adds Finch.

An example of this is the demolition of the Nipigon Bridge, where Priestly’s innovation and his planning was singularly original. In fact, it was this project that won the company the World Demolition Award, a contest that companies from all over the world enter. “The stuff Ryan invented and his innovation was unbelievable,” Finch says.

For Finch, being an active salvager means he is keeping stuff out of the landfill. “Priestly was green conscious long before it got trendy,” he says.

“We divert at least 95 per cent of complete building structures away from community landfills. There is a big infrastructure around the recycling — which we sell for reuse. Someone will phone up and ask if we have a particular item — like a pedestrian bridge — and I say, ironically, ‘We do.’” www.priestly.ca @priestly_demolition_inc

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FALL 2019 NEWSLETTER

Deputy Mayor, Local and Regional Councillor MARIO FERRI It is with great pleasure that I share with you a few of the highlights and achievements accomplished in the city of Vaughan, Ont., and region of York to date. I continue to be devoted and focused on local priorities and

promise to work hard to achieve outcomes that matter and are of importance. Help us make our city and region the greatest place to live. Share your concerns, ideas and comments with us anytime; we’d love to hear from you.

CITY OF VAUGHAN HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS

Supporting the Seniors Association of Vaughan Initiative (S.A.V.I.)

CHAIRING AND GUIDING VAUGHAN’S OLDER ADULT TASK FORCE Taking pride in Vaughan’s new park

CONTINUING TO LEAD THE NORTH MAPLE REGIONAL PARK DEVELOPMENT The new park will be over 900 acres, beating New York City’s famous Central Park! There is an excess of 200 acres of green space, two lit soccer fields with spectator seating, five kilometres of walking trails and a park pavilion featuring washrooms and change rooms. This is the perfect place for all residents of Vaughan to enjoy.

This task force is mandated to address relevant issues and the promotion of healthy living for seniors in Vaughan, connecting seniors to local programs and creating a one-stop shop for older adults.

DID YOU KNOW? More than 22,000 trees have been planted as part of the city’s tree replacement plan.

A total of 60,000 new jobs have been created since 2010.

A total of 12,000 businesses in Vaughan employ more than 223,000 people.

Participating in Earth Hour at the city of Vaughan

VAUGHAN REDUCED ENERGY CONSUMPTION BY 4.5% (14.77 MW)

Celebrating volunteerism with the volunteer recognition society

SUPPORTING & WELCOMING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF VAUGHAN’S FIRST UNIVERSITY

Observing Jewish Heritage Month at the city of Vaughan

COMMITTED TO ENSURING THAT THE CITY OF VAUGHAN INTRODUCES A SHORTTERM RENTAL BY-LAW

PROMOTING COMMUNITY SAFETY Working on economic vitality and supporting community health, safety and well- being. Spearheading school zone safety measures, traffic, health and wellbeing within the city of Vaughan.

CONTACT INFORMATION 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr., Vaughan, Ont. L6A 1T1 • (905)832-2281 x8999 • mario.ferri@vaughan.ca 62

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YORK REGION HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS

YORK REGION INVESTS $339 MILLION IN ROADS York Regional Council 2018-22

CREATING MORE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN YORK REGION There were an estimated 636,630 jobs in York Region as of mid 2018. York Region employment has grown by 15,120 jobs or 2.4 per cent since 2017.

PROMOTING HOUSING OPTIONS IN VAUGHAN AND YORK REGION York Region will receive $45.5 million through the extension of the provincial and federal governments to ensure that there will be more housing options for those who wish to live in Vaughan and neighbouring cities.

Mario Ferri (second from left) receiving the award for York Region Environmental Services Chair

York Region continues to deliver on water and waste-water projects.

Drinking water in York Region achieves 99% in provincial water quality standards.

SUPPORTING THE TRANSIT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TAP) Eligible residents can purchase a TAP pass for half the cost of a YRT adult monthly pass. The TAP pass is valid for unlimited travel on YRT services for the calendar month.

The region remains committed to resolving traffic concerns for its residents.

Current projects include, among others, the following: • Road reconstruction and widening • Major bridge replacements and upgrades • Intersection upgrades and improvements to enhance traffic operations • Pavement repair, preservation and rehabilitation • Transit terminal, station and bus stop repairs and improvements • Major Mackenzie culvert • Pine Valley and Teston Road.

Visiting with riders at the Maple GO station

KEEPING YOUR PETS IN MIND Paramedics now have breathing kits to help offer life-saving oxygen to pets in distress. They are specially designed for animals who have suffered smoke inhalation.

SUPPORTING THE NEW MACKENZIE VAUGHAN HOSPITAL York Regional Council invested $120 million for the new Vaughan Mackenzie Hospital, expected to have 550 beds and open in 2020.

HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE THE YONGE SUBWAY WILL REACH YORK REGION • Yonge Subway Extension to Richmond Hill/Langstaff.

• We at York Region are working with York University on a temporary solution to the cross-boundary travel issue for students, such as a Universal Pass.

• GO rail improvements: two-way all-day service on the Barrie GO and Stouffville GO rail corridor and improved service on the Richmond Hill GO rail corridor. www.mycitylife.ca

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CITY NOTEBOOK 1

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90TH ANNIVERSARY OF CANADA AND JAPAN DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS To celebrate the 90th anniversary of Canada and Japan’s diplomatic relations, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado visited Mississauga, Ont., during the Japan Festival CANADA. With the last visit taking place 15 years ago, it marks the first time a member of the Japanese Imperial Family has visited Mississauga. “Our relationship with Japan is one that Mississauga is very proud of,” says Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “Over the years, we have developed rich cultural and economic ties with Japan. In fact, our only sister-city relationship is with Kariya, Japan — a 38-yearold friendship that we value deeply.”

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PHOTOS BY ADAM\ PULICICCHIO

www.thefutureisunlimited.ca 3

1. Mayor Bonnie Crombie, Councillor Ron Starr and Councillor Pat Saito with Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, Ms. Takako Ito, Consul General of Japan, Mr. Kimihiro Ish, ambassador of Japan in Toronto and members of the Japanese business community in Mississauga 2. From left: Terry Wakasa, Japan Festival CANADA 2019, Councillor Pat Saito, Honourable Nina Tangri, MPP Mississauga-Streetsville, Mr. Kimihiro Ish, ambassador of Japan in Toronto, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, Mayor Bonnie Crombie, former Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion, Councillor Ron Starr and Ms. Takako Ito, Consul General of Japan in Toronto 3. Mayor Bonnie Crombie with Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado 1

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CAVALIERE GINO CUCCHI LANEWAY SIGN UNVEILED Former owner of Gino Ladies and Men’s Fashion on St. Clair, Gino Cucchi, unveiled a sign on Sept. 14 titled the “Cavaliere Gino Cucchi Laneway.” Situated between Earlscourt Avenue and Nairn Avenue, just north of St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, it was attended by friends who met at a local restaurant to share memories from the past.

1. Ribbon cutting 2. Gino Cucchi with his family 1

The seventh Free-Them Freedom Walk took place at the end of September. Attended by over 500 people, the walk took place to raise awareness about human trafficking and exploitation in the country. At press time, the event has raised over $90,000 and will keep raising money until Oct. 15, when the CN Tower is hoped to be lit up in purple to highlight the walk’s success.

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www.freethem.ca

1. Free-Them founder Shae Invidiata with RCMP Constable Lepa Jankovic during the walk 2. The walk begins with (front row, from left) Sonia Jhas, Ashlee Froese, Eva Redpath

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PHOTOS BY A@AWESOMEPHOTOGRAPHY.CA @CLEEIMAGES, @CHRISCARDENASAVILA

FREE-THEM FREEDOM WALK RAISES OVER $90,000

CITY NOTEBOOK MAYOR MAURIZIO BEVILACQUA WELCOMED CONSUL GENERAL OF ISRAEL, GALIT BARAM, TO VAUGHAN The meeting, which took place on Sept. 11 at Vaughan City Hall, builds on the already strong connection that Vaughan has with the Jewish community. “Vaughan is a city that is truly blessed with multicultural diversity and economic strength that continues to attract foreign direct investment across the world,” Bevilacqua said in a statement. “The visit today demonstrates our commitment to working with our global partners to ensure our local success.” www.vaughan.ca Mayor Bevilacqua welcomes Consul General of Israel, Galit Baram, to Vaughan City Hall

VAUGHAN PARKINSON SUPERWALK Sept. 8 saw the success of the seventh Vaughan Parkinson SuperWalk at Vaughan City Hall. Taking place annually, 225 walkers and runners participated in the two-kilometre and five-kilometre routes. The event concluded with closing remarks from Nadia Smith, the organization’s chair, and raised over $80,000. www.donate.parkinson.ca Vaughan Parkinson Executive Superwalk Committee: Nadia Smith, Vaughan Parkinson Superwalk chair, dignitaries who attended the opening ceremonies, Mayor Maurizio Bevilaqua, Deputy Mayor Mario Ferri, Linda Jackson, local and regional councillor, councillors Rosanna De Francesca, Sandro Yeung Racco, MPPs: Francesco SorbaraVaughan Woodbridge, Deborah Schulte, King Vaughan, Parkinson Canada representative Beverly Crandell

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CITY NOTEBOOK

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WAVES OF CHANGES FOR AUTISM RAISES FUNDS FOR VAUGHAN’S AUTISTIC COMMUNITY On Sept. 19, the Waves of Changes for Autism Gala took place in support of the autistic community in Vaughan. Attended by over 900 people, including the likes of Julian Trozzo, Victoria Colmenares and Roberto Tanco, the event’s donations were added to the $320,000 already raised by Waves this year.

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www.wavesofchanges.ca

1. Organizers of Waves of Changes for Autism 2. MP Francesco Sorbara, Ellen Contardi, Carmen Principato and members of Liuna 3. Presentation by Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua to Mark Di Maulo, Loredana Presutto, Ellen Contardi

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