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Spring 2010

Parade of Homes

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 www.finelifestyles.ca

Spring 2010 • VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 • www.finelifestyles.ca

Up Close and Personal with Paul & Carol Hill Regina’s Best Businesses, Products & Services

Spring Landscape Feature

Spring Fashion Trends

Exclusive Interview with New Rider GM Brendan Taman

Room-to-Room Renos

Gail Bowen: Mistress of Murder and Mystery

Home Builders’ Parade of Homes

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4637 - 4665 Malcom Drive Tel: 347.8130 www.harbourlanding.net

Showhome Hours: Monday - Thursday 7:00 - 9:00 Weekends & Holidays 1:00 - 5:00

Featuring Seven of Regina’s Finest Builders

Spring 2010

Parade of Homes

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 www.finelifestyles.ca

Spring 2010 • VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 • www.finelifestyles.ca

Up Close and Personal with Paul & Carol Hill Regina’s Best Businesses, Products & Services

Spring Landscape Feature

Spring Fashion Trends

Exclusive Interview with New Rider GM Brendan Taman

Room-to-Room Renos

Gail Bowen: Mistress of Murder and Mystery

Home Builders’ Parade of Homes

THE MAJESTICS CAR CLUB • KAYAKING IN THE GASPÉ • THE WILLETTS ON WINE MOOSE JAW / WEYBURN / FORT QU’APPELLE FEATURES • RAY LAVALLEE: MEDICINE MAN

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A note from

the editor Nothing gladdens and excites the heart of a prairie dweller more than the arrival of spring. The snow melts, green shoots begin to appear, trees begin to bud...and best of all, the spring issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina appears!

Okay, maybe that’s hyperbole...but then again, maybe not.

Because I think you’ll agree there’s a lot to be happy and excited about in this issue. Does spring have you thinking of landscaping? We’ve got a section for that! Planning to renovate? We’ve got a section for that! Looking for some new spring styles? We’ve got a section for that, too!

We’ve also got the best of the best Regina businesses, a culinary cornucopia of the city’s best restaurants, expert advice on everything from hearing aids to hair styles, and more.

Enjoy an up-close-and-personal interview with Paul Hill, whose family literally built large portions of Regina from the ground up over the last century...and continues to do so. Get your questions answered by new Roughrider GM Brendan Taman. Find out what bestselling Regina mystery author Gail Bowen is up to.

We’ve got a story on a high-end mommy boutique, and the tale of a woman who took her love and knowledge of Indian cuisine and turned it into a business. Interested in travel? Take a trip to Quebec’s Gaspé and kayak with the seals. Fascinated by traditional First Nations medicine? Learn about world-renowned medicine man Raymond Lavallee of the Piapot Cree Nation.

Our wine columnists are on hand to explain wine rating systems and offer some wine recommendations, our new business columnist has some investment advice on managing risk, and we’ve also got suggestions for books, video games, music and entertainment.

It’s all here in the spring-is-bustin’-out-all-over issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed editing it.

Edward Willett Spring 2010

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fine lifestyles regina

Spring 2010 Feature Story

13

Up Close and Personal with Paul J. Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Style

23

Hello Baby, hello (again) Regina! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 EXPERT ADVICE: Jessica Bridal - Choosing a graduation dress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Dorothy Pearl Uniforms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 EXPERT ADVICE: Rumors Hair Studio - Finding a hair stylist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 EXPERT ADVICE: Myst Salon and Spa - In good taste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Solitude & Soul: Perfect jewellery in a print-perfect world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 EXERT ADVICE: Shear Escape Salon - Hair styling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Fashion Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 From Necklaces to Bags to Shawls... this spring’s top five fashion trends! . . . . . . . . 44 Cozy Cradles & Kids Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Toni’s Naturally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Prairie Motorcycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 The Bebe Bump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Health and Wellness

51

Back to Basics: Raymond Lavallee and traditional First Nation medicines . . . . . . . 51 EXPERT ADVICE: Dr. Nicole Mitchelson - Managing stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 EXPERT ADVICE: Eastside Audiology - Hearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Helping Hands Care Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 EXPERT ADVICE: The Medicine Shoppe - Women’s health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 EXPERT ADVICE: Tanda Spa - Preparing skin for spring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 The Water Warehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Oxford Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Main Street Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 EXPERT ADVICE: Advance Eye Care Centre - Eye care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 A new kind of coffee that actually increases your health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240

Homes and Real Estate

138 Spring 2010

Canterbury Lofts: Modern luxury in a historic setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Richardson Lighting: Offers exclusive new Steven and Chris line by Artcraft . . . . . 69 Coverings by Design: A destination for design inspiration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Radio Centre: Looks after you for the life of your electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 One-stop browsing for Saskatchewan rental accommodations at skforrent.ca . . . . . 78 8

fine lifestyles regina

Urban Landscapes

Wheels

Heather Lowe Landscape Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Universal Auto Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Majestics Car Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180 Mercedes-Benz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

Stones Edge Landscaping: Expertise and experience . . . . . . 88 Sunset Bay Hot Tubs: Getting soaked never felt better . . . . 94 Ellis Pools: Build paradise in your own backyard . . . . . . . . . 97 Glacier Glass: Vinyl decks and fencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Business

EXPERT ADVICE: Quick Response Mortgage . . . . . . . . 103

Rubina’s journey: Nutritious Indian cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . 188 EXPERT ADVICE: Sirois Law Firm - Immigration . . . . . 191 FAMILY LAW: Olive Waller Zinkham & Waller . . . . . . . 192 Ken Stephen: A custodian with a big heart . . . . . . . . . . . . 194 EXPERT ADVICE: Grant Karst - Investing . . . . . . . . . . . 200 Building Portfolios: Navigating portfolio risk . . . . . . . . . . 202 EXPERT ADVICE: KPMG - Financial Planning . . . . . . . 203 EXPERT ADVICE: RBC Securities - Retirement Income. 204 EXPERT ADVICE: Harvard Western Insurance. . . . . . . . 205 EXPERT ADVICE: Sun Life Financial - Insurance . . . . . . 205

Harmony Builders: Helping new homebuyers . . . . . . . . . 104 Lindal Cedar Homes: Where dreams come true every day. 108 North Ridge: A great place for a good read . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Blackstone Estates: Setting the standard once again. . . . . . 113 The Creeks: Another jewel in Regina’s crown . . . . . . . . . . 114 Emerald Park Homes: Building their own neighbourhood 115 The Regina and Region Home Builder’s Association . . . . . 118

Room-to-Room Renovations Crave Kitchen and Wine Bar’s hot new look . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Best of the Best

Kitchen Craft Cabinetry: A full-service company . . . . . . . 123 Budget Blinds: Perfect window coverings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Sun Life Financial Advisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 Focus Mortgage Solutions & Linka Howe Law Offices . . . 208 Oliver’s Mens’ Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209 The Home Expert Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210 Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212 Metro Pet Market: Leader of the pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214 Capital Pontiac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216 Enhance Dental Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218 Olympic Paving Stone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220

CNG Stone Products: “Mother Nature’s art” . . . . . . . . . . 129 Luminesque: Lighting your world with style . . . . . . . . . . . 132 Alpine Ceramics and Tile: Integrity and professionalism . . 135

Arts and Entertainment Gail Bowen: Regina’s mistress of murder and mystery . . . . 138

Dine Around Regina

Fort Qu’Appelle

Trifon’s Pizza: Working hard to create the best food. . . . . . 144 Peg’s Kitchens home-style Ukrainian food . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Fort Qu’Appelle: Jewel of the Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224 Dunk the Druggist: A century of community care . . . . . . 228 Hanson Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230 Beth Grainger’s Florist and Gifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232 Welcome Wagon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234

The Willetts on Wine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Entertainment Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

Sport, Recreation and Travel A Q&A with new Rider GM Brendan Taman. . . . . . . . . . 154

Weyburn

EXPERT ADVICE: Extreme Hockey and Sport . . . . . . . . 156 Colten Teubert and Jordan Eberle, Regina’s silver sons . . . 157

Weyburn businesses help grow their community . . . . . . . . 236 T&C Family Restaurant/Dallas Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238

Extreme Hockey: Strengthening the roots of sport . . . . . . 159 Spring by the numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 Let Minard’s Leisure World introduce you to RVing . . . . . 168 Adventures in Maritime Quebec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Moose Jaw

Performance Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

Moose Jaw Cultural Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241

Spring 2010

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fine lifestyles regina

Spring 2010 V O L U M E

2 ,

I S S U E

1

Publishers Randy Liberet

Wayne UnRuh

Editor Edward Willett:

ewillett@sasktel.net

Graphic Design and Layout Joanne Lauder:

jlauder@accesscomm.ca

In-House Advertising and Design Tasha Fraser Josh Legendre Melissa Taylor

Cover Photography PHOT OGRAPHY: CRAIG L IVIN GST ON

Craig Livingston

Photography Jesse Covert-Ruttenberg Vienna Di Ruscio Drawn Daisy Photography Craig Livingston Ruby Blue Photography

Contributing Writers Linda Aksomitis Susan Easton Carter Haydu Trilby Knutson Katy Lavallee Samantha Maciag Marie Powell Mendenhall Lee Parent Krista Cornish Scott Meagen Thomas Edward Willett

A message from

The Hills

Brian Bowman Tobie Hainstock Paula Johansen Sheena Koops G.H. Lewmer Francois Magny Amy Nelson-Mile Rod Pedersen Judith Silverthorne Carol Todd Darryl Yasinowski

Advertising Consultants Carol and I are honoured to be featured on the cover of this issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina. Although we have interests throughout North America and some other parts of the world, home is where the heart is and our hearts will always be in Saskatchewan. Regina will always be our home. We are honoured to have been able to contribute to the growth and development of this city and we are totally committed to its future.

The Hill Companies began with an individual’s dream and entrepreneurial spirit. Today, new individuals with that same spirit are building Regina’s future as they pursue their dreams...and thanks to them, the future of Regina is bright.

We salute everyone highlighted in the pages of this issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina. We hope you enjoy reading their stories, and ours.

Brooke Watson: 551.4789 Brenna Glascock: 999.3463 Trena Olfert: 581.2756 Jill Melle: 529-7582 Talya Erickson: 690-8571

brooke@finelifestyles.ca brenna@finelifestyles.ca trena@finelifestyles.ca jill@finelifestyles.ca talya@finelifestyles.ca

Publishers Randy Liberet: 306.540.3320 Randy@FineLifestyles.ca Wayne UnRuh: 306.541.3365 Wayne@FineLifestyles.ca 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, SK S4V 2S4

www.finelifestyles.ca Fine Lifestyles Regina is published four times a year by Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd., are copyrighted 2010 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles Regina, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Lifestyles Regina or its writers. The name Fine Lifestyles Regina, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles of Regina or the companies they represent. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Paul & Carol Hill

Spring 2010

10

fine lifestyles regina

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finelifestylesregina | feature

Up Close & Personal

Paul J. Hill

BY EDWARD WILLETT

P

aul Hill says he’s most known in Regina for three things: his blue 1976 Mercury Marquis, his habit of consuming eight Diet Cokes a day, and his addiction to non-fat frozen yogurt.

Of course, that list leaves out one other minor thing of note: Paul is president and CEO of The Hill Companies and Harvard Developments Inc., companies intimately intertwined with the history of Regina, owning and/or managing more than two million square feet in Regina and five million square feet in Western Canada.

The Hill Companies were born in 1903 as McCallum Hill & Company, formed

by Walter H.A. Hill (Paul’s grandfather) and a partner. Walter Hill later sold the land on which the Saskatchewan Legislative Building now stands to the provincial government, and went on to develop the Lakeview residential area. Paul’s father, the late Frederick W. Hill, after completing an MBA at the Harvard Business School, joined the company to work with his father in 1947.

Born in the U.S.A. Although he’s definitely a Regina boy, growing up in the city and attending Campion College, Paul was born in Cambridge, Mass.

“My father was in the Canadian Air Force,” he explains. “He was discharged because he had a rheumatic fever history, and decided to get an MBA at Harvard.

“During his first term, Pearl Harbor was bombed, and the Americans were ramping up their armed services. He went over Spring 2010

to the recruiter and said he wanted to get inducted. So when everyone else was trying to get deferments, he ended up in the U.S. Army Air Force.”

Fred flew as a captain of B-17 and B-24 bombers and received the Distinguished Flying Cross with three oak-leaf clusters.

During training exercises, he met Paul’s mother in Washington, D.C. while she was working at the British Embassy.

They fell in love right away and after five dates got married.

Fred went on to serve in the U.S. Army Air Force overseas, and was discharged in 1945. He returned to Harvard University, and Paul was born in October of 1945.

The family returned to Regina in 1947, but Paul went back to the U.S. for university, thanks to one of his father’s wartime connections: his co-pilot, Paul’s godfather, was from Washington. “He was a Georgetown guy, and so I ended up going to Georgetown University.”

Paul says he was interested in business from a very early age. (Although he admits that one time in Grade 1 or 2 he expressed an interest in being a fireman).

“My father would always bring his associates back to the house at the end of the day,” he recalls. “I would always have a high level of curiosity, and sit and listen to their conversations.”

PHOT OGRAPHY: CRAIG L IVINGST ON

with

Carol Erb, daughter of former provincial cabinet minister Walter Erb, when he was actually dating her best friend.

“I took her best friend home and Carol was there, and that’s how we met,” he recalls.

Paul was at Campion College and Carol was in Grade 12 at Sacred Heart at the time, but their paths hadn’t crossed because until that year she and her best friend had been attending Luther College.

“We got married the same year, December 28, 1963,” Paul says. He already knew he was going to Georgetown University, and “we decided that since I was going away the next four years that we wanted to commit to each other for the rest of our life, and we wouldn’t be able to do that if we lived apart for the next four years.”

Carol joined Paul at Georgetown, and also studied there. From Georgetown they moved to London, Ont., where Paul attended the Richard Ivey School of Business, “the Harvard of Canada,” obtaining his MBA.

When Paul met Carol

Like Harvard, the Ivey School of Business teaches business via “case method,” Paul explains.

Young Paul was interested in more than just business, of course. He was also interested in girls. He met his future wife,

“It’s a program that involves hundreds of cases that are written about real-life circumstances in various companies and

13

fine lifestyles regina

business,” he says. “The cases are focused on various aspects of the business decision-making process. The goal is to learn how to make better decisions through a disciplined thought process.

“You can’t study for it. It’s a very intense program that goes right up until the last day of class. The next day you go into two sets of four-hour exams. There’s nothing you could ever study for. It was all learning how to make decisions, recognize opportunities, and anticipate problems, learning how to solve them before they occur.”

From school, Paul went into the investment banking business in Toronto with the predecessor of what is now Nesbitt Burns, working as an analyst. From Toronto he went to Winnipeg, where he managed the company’s retail and institutional operation.

Back in Regina Then, in 1976, he returned home to work with his father. (That was when he bought the Mercury Marquis.) In 1978 he was appointed president of The Hill Companies, the position he’s held ever since.

Paul believes he put his stamp on the companies early, not through any grand strategic planning, but simply by being “entrepreneurial and opportunistic.”

One of the first things he oversaw was the acquisition of the local CTV television station, followed by the growth of Harvard Broadcasting Inc. radio stations 620 CKRM and Lite 92 FM and 104.9 The WOLF. “We are a strong regional radio broadcaster today,” Paul notes, the company having extended its media holdings Spring 2010

to Yorkton, Saskatoon, Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton and Fort McMurray.

“The second thing that happened was putting together a team of experienced real-estate professionals to fulfill the redevelopment plan for downtown Regina,” Paul continues. “This included the demolition of the old McCallum-Hill building, built by my grandfather in 1912. It was replaced with the Hill Centre Towers I and II.” (An interesting side note: the Hill Centre Towers I and II were designed by the Chicago architectural firm Skidmore Owings and Merrill, which was just in the news again as the architects of the world’s new tallest building, the Burj Dubai. “You can go to any international city in the world, and you will find a Skidmore Owings building which will stand out as unique to that total environment,” Paul notes. “We went to Skidmore to give us a unique design that will only be in Regina and nowhere else in the world. That’s the difference they make.

Our design will never be duplicated. It’s served the city well, and we have that connection on the world stage.”)

The company followed that up with several more distinctive downtown buildings, including the Bank of Montreal Building, the Crown Life (now Canada Life) Building and the FCC Tower/Agriculture Place Building, and spearheaded the linkage of all those buildings via climate-controlled pedestrian walkways.

The Hill Companies started out focused on real estate and insurance, and that’s still the core business, Paul says. “Today, that includes Harvard Western Insurance, the general insurance company, Western 14

Surety Company, the contract-bonding company, and Harvard Developments Inc., a full-service real-estate company.”

Diversification into the U.S. Another big change during Paul’s stewardship has been diversification into the United States. “We made a decision to diversify into the United States, and opportunistically had acquired the Canadian assets of Tenneco Oil of Canada Ltd., with an American partner. It’s now called Harvard Energy.

“That was a big change that was motivated by what was happening in Ottawa.

In 1979 to 1981, when Pierre Elliot Trudeau was prime minister, it became clear that Canada might be in for some long-term problems as a result of fiscal irresponsibility and massive government intrusion into the economy, such as the National Energy Program. It really stemmed from my background in the investment banking industry. I was aware of the penalty Canada was going to have to pay over the next 20 years, which is exactly the same set of circumstances that is now occurring in the United States under the Obama administration.”

Another major diversification move was the acquisition, with partners, of a bankrupt company, UFR Urban Forest Recyclers Inc. of Swift Current. The company developed a manufacturing business making molded fiber products, and now has more than 40 percent of the North American egg tray market.

In 1990, The Hill Companies made national news by acquiring the controlling interest in Crown Life and moving it to fine lifestyles regina

Regina from Toronto. “That brought 1,200 jobs to Regina and expanded the GDP of the province by two percent and of the city by 10 percent,” Paul notes. “I became Chairman and it prospered for a number of years. It’s now owned by Canada Life and remains a significant presence in the City.

“Our western Canadian real estate company continues to grow,” he adds. “Under the leadership of our talented senior management team, we have under development a major retail urban center in Regina called ‘Grasslands’ at Harbour Landing, as well as ‘Preston Crossing,’ located on the University of Saskatchewan lands in Saskatoon, the ‘Eau Claire’ redevelopment in Calgary and ‘The Currents of Windermere’ in Edmonton. These are major multi-year developments which include large national retailers. The projects are in the 20- to 100-acre size and range from $50 million to $800 million. This is the next 10 years of our company. It will literally change these cities.”

Green technology is another focus. “We owned a U.S. software company which developed programs for health and safety and environmental management,” Paul says. “The customer base included many Fortune 500 companies and many foreign companies operating out of Asia, the Middle East and Europe. We’re very focused on reducing the costs associated with the production of energy and eliminating, as much as possible, the excessive consumption of products that produce emissions.”

Harvard Developments is the first organization in Saskatchewan operating under private-public partnership to obSpring 2010

tain LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver Accreditation, on the redeveloped Century Plaza building located in downtown Regina.

Though Regina has always been, and continues to be, home base, “Saskatchewan has had a history of not having continuous growth, which has encouraged us to diversify into other geographic areas, and also to be entrepreneurial and opportunistic with regard to other industries,” Paul says.

“My grandfather struggled and survived through the two world wars and the 1930s. The company Walter Hill founded is the only real-estate business in Canada that has survived a full 100 years: it celebrated its centennial in 2003.”

Now, says Paul, “Saskatchewan is again growing. The Hill Companies have developed an excellent, experienced team with capabilities second-to-none in Saskatchewan. They are dedicated to assisting and helping to bring the province’s growth opportunities into reality.” The cities of Saskatchewan, Paul says, deserve to enjoy the finest facilities and services of any jurisdiction in the country.

Inspired by Mother Theresa Making Regina and Saskatchewan better places to live is very important to both Paul and Carol. Paul notes that he and his wife had the opportunity to visit Mother Theresa in India with other CEOs and their spouses in the 1980s.

“She really mesmerized the group we were with,” Paul remembers. “Many wanted to help her initiatives around the world. But her response to us was, ‘Go 16

back to your own community, identify the needs, and give both of yourself and your resources to help those people.’”

Paul and Carol have always been interested in helping students become leaders in society. They support Athol Murray College of Notre Dame in Wilcox, attended by students from all over Western Canada and other parts of the world.

A major new initiative emanating from Mother Teresa’s message is now at the feasibility stage, as Paul works to establish a Nativity Miguel School in Regina.

“What this network of schools in the United States have done is entered into the inner cities, taken kids from Grade 6, 7 and 8, from diversified backgrounds, and developed their educational and motivational skills to the point where they have been able to change a 90-percent drop-out rate for these students in high school to a 90-percent pass rate.

“The school takes 15 to 20 kids per class at a time, and works with them for extended hours and days for three years, giving them the foundation for success in high school and beyond. We’ve been working on it for two years. We hope to be up and running next year.”

Alongside that initiative, the Hills have set up a foundation called “One Life Makes a Difference” to select one student at a time to be given an opportunity to get out of the environment they are in and attend a school such as Notre Dame to obtain a complete educational experience that can take them on to university.

Other education initiatives have included the evolution of the University of Regina’s Faculty of Business Administration into fine lifestyles regina

the Paul J. Hill School of Business. The business school has always been reputable, Paul says, but “there was an opportunity to take it to the next level in terms of quality and recognition.”

The Paul J. Hill School of Business is now partnered with the Richard Ivey School of Business, where Paul received his MBA, “recognized as one of the top schools in the world.” The school is implementing the full case-method program used at Ivey and Harvard, and also includes a student exchange program and Ph.D. development. As well, business cases from Western Canada are now being written and distributed on a worldwide basis under the Hill-Ivey brand name. The program includes a specific emphasis on business ethics.

Paul and Carol have also helped initiate a Catholic studies program at Campion College.

Five children Their own children have all attended Jesuit-run universities in the United States.

“We wanted them to experience American culture, and to go to schools that require a minimum amount of philosophy and theology,” Paul says.

Eldest daughter Rosanne Hill Blaisdell, who like her father obtained an MBA, is working with Harvard Developments and is responsible for the company’s office portfolio in Regina and in Calgary.

Their second daughter, Shannon, got a law degree and now at age 42 has gone back to school, after having three children, for a medical degree.

Their only son, Matthew, married a girl Spring 2010

from Michigan and has founded a technology-related company in Los Angeles.

Their second-youngest daughter, January, is in early childhood education in Calgary, and their youngest, Kathryn, is a practicing psychologist in Calgary.

Paul and Carol continue to call Regina home, although, Paul notes, “When it gets cold, we go south. I commute back and forth and the rest is done by phone, fax and email.”

In the summer, they enjoy a cottage at the Lake of the Woods in northwestern Ontario (the Winnipeg connection) but still keep the family cottage in the Qu’Appelle Valley. “I grew up going to Katepwa Lake in the summertime and worked at a local beach and boat club,” Paul says.

They play a little bit of golf and enjoy the social amenities at the Wascana Country Club. Both keep physically active. “We were joggers,” Paul says. “Well, Carol still is. My knees have gone.”

Culturally, they enjoy shows at Globe Theatre and the Conexus Arts Centre, and going to the movies. “Mostly, we just like being with family,” Paul says.

Oh, and football. “We as a family have had a lifelong commitment to the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Carol was Miss Saskatchewan Roughrider in 1963! We’ve attended every Grey Cup since then together, along with most of our children.

“Harvard’s 620 CKRM has the broadcasting rights for the Roughrider games,” Paul continues. “I am currently honoured to be on the board of the club.

Also, several employees and business associates have and continue to be actively involved in supporting the club.”

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Favorite restaurants include Earl’s, the Lakeshore Steak House, Golf ’s and Memories (and TCBY, of course, thanks to Paul’s addiction to frozen yogurt).

A love of travel The Hills love Regina, but they also like to travel. They founded the Canadian Chapter of The Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museum, a select group dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of the collection of art contained in the Vatican Museums. Money raised by the organization is used for restoration projects, such as the four-year restoration of the Raphael tapestry, St. Paul in Prison.

“Now we are restoring a necropolis under the Vatican parking lot that has perfectly preserved tombs going back to the period from 200 BC to 400 AD,” Paul says.

“There are stories about persons, one of whom ran the chariot races for Emperor Nero. Other stories include a description of the daily lives of ordinary people of their times. It’s fascinating. Every two years we take the Canadian chapter to Rome for a full agenda at the Vatican.

“We like Hawaii, of course, everybody does,” Paul continues. “The last three or four years we’ve gone to southern Spain.

We’ve learned very little Spanish, but we’ve taken in the history and culture of Spain as well as spending some time with its former president. We developed an interest in Spain and its history and culture.

“We’ve been most places in the world, but there’s one place that we’ve not been to that we will be going to this year, and that’s Russia. We’ll be in St. Petersburg and Moscow for the first time.” fine lifestyles regina

Elaine Terry (AMP) Senior Mortgage Specialist Cell: (306) 529-8717 I was born and raised in Regina, and have been in the Credit and Financing Industry for 23 years. I am able to accommodate clients all across the country, and make myself available at all times during the day, evenings, weekends and including holidays. For the first 12 years of my career, I was employed with the local credit Bureau, known today as Equifax Canada and firmly believe this experience alone is very crucial to the Mortgage Industry.

I have been a CAAMP member for over 12 years and have achieved my Accredited Mortgage Professional Designation.

And in saying this, I do keep up with the full knowledge of all products offered by each individual lender.

My Goals are: • • •

Elaine Terry (AMP)

Products Offered: •

Premier Broker = Premier Mortgage

To help each client every step of the way, basically your "One Stop Shop".

To give clients the most suitable products at the lowest rates.

To offer my clients free Credit Counseling for current and future endeavors.

• •

Pre-Approvals on Purchase, Refinances, Construction and Renewals • Free Down Payment (still available) Cash Back (still available) • Equity Take Out • Immigrants and New to Canada • Save from being Foreclosed Past Bankruptcies • 1st and 2nd Mortgages • Rental and Secondary Homes • Self-Employed Stated Income

Call Me for all the details or e-mail me at e.t.one@sasktel.net Please visit my website at www.elaineterry.ca Info: #224-408 Broad St., Regina Sk. S4R 1X3 Office: 775-1511 Cell: 529-8717 Toll Free: 888 629-8789

trusted. committed. client focused.

• Real Estate Law • Immigration Law • Environmental Law • Employment Law/ Wrongful Dismissal • Breach of Contract • Debt Collection

S I R O I S L AW F I R M , P. C .

Matt M. Sirois, B . A. ( HO NS. ) , L. L. B. 2424 College Avenue, 3rd Floor Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 1C8 Phone: 306.585.6288 Fax: 306.585.6362 siroislaw@sasktel.net

Call: (306) 585.6288 Spring 2010

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siroislaw@sasktel.net fine lifestyles regina

PA U L H I L L C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 7

Saskatchewan: A land of opportunity The Hill Companies were created by entrepreneurs taking advantage of an opportunity that presented itself. Does Paul feel there are still opportunities in Saskatchewan?

“Absolutely,” he says. In fact, he thinks the opportunities are greater now than they have ever been in his lifetime, because at various times in Saskatchewan’s history, “it was very difficult for a company to start and survive,” he notes.

“The wars and the ’30s were very difficult economic times. After the war, in the 1950s, business faced the challenge of the Tommy Douglas government and the

Harvard Western Insurance: An example of diversification definitely the largest provider of those services in southern Saskatchewan.”

he newest example of the Hill Companies’ ongoing efforts to diversify is Harvard Western Insurance, which Paul Hill says they and their partners, Western Financial Group from High River, Alta., are “particularly excited about.”

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With that size comes some advantages, notes Pettigrew.

“The advantage comes through the number of people who are there to service the client, but also the more business you have, typically, the more insurance companies you have available to you as well.

Insurance brokerage certainly isn’t new to the company: in fact, insurance brokerage was one of the first businesses the original McCallum Hill and Company was involved with way back in 1903.

“We have dozens of companies that we have relationships with, so we are in a strong position to help you find that right product with that right company.” At the same time, he says, “The advantage of being a local company is we’re still easy to deal with, we’re still relatively small and local. I like to think we’ve got the best of both worlds.”

Harvard Western Insurance is the new name for what was most recently Cooks ISI and Shenher Insurance.

Back in 1996, McCallum Hill Insurance merged with Cooks Insurance to form Cooks-McCallum Hill. In 2005, Harvard Developments and Western Financial Group created a joint venture, with Harvard bringing its two Cooks-McCallum Hill offices and Western Financial Group its two ISI locations to create Cooks ISI. In 2008, Shenher Insurance joined the fold, and as of January, the company became known as Harvard Western Insurance, with four offices in Regina and one in Kronau.

While the Hill Companies have existed for more than a century, Western Financial Group is a much newer company that’s only been around since 1996. Pettigrew describes it as “really a dynamic, growing, very large insurance-brokerage and financial-services provider in Western Canada,” and says, “It’s nice to have the strong local company that’s been here forever combined with a really dynamic growth company in our industry.”

“We’re an insurance broker, so we help our clients find the right insurance,” says General Manager Dave Pettigrew. “We broker general insurance: home, auto and business insurance. We’re also a motor license issuer, and are just starting into life insurance.

Pettigrew himself is happy to be a part of it. “I left a 20year career at IBM to come and lead this business,” he says. “I was in a position where I either had to leave town or leave IBM, and I chose Regina. Harvard Western offered me a pretty neat opportunity to do something new.”

“It’s a pretty familiar business to most folks, the combination of license-issuing and insurance, and we’re now Spring 2010

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PA U L H I L L C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 9

CCF manifesto, which called for the total eradication of capitalism. Many companies either left the province or were taken over by the government. One of those companies was ours, Saskatchewan Guaranty and Fidelity, the predecessor to Western Surety Company, which was managed by the predecessor to Harvard Western Insurance. In spite of this we stayed and remained committed.”

But, he says, “The negative aspects of the socialist environment have slowly been removed over time. Successive governments of the province have moved toward encouraging the private sector to grow and develop as well as encouraging the expansion and exploration of the resource sector toward its full potential. It is also becoming a more competitive jurisdiction to attract business and jobs.

“The province is moving in the right direction. The Hill Companies hope to continue contributing to the growth of this great province and at the same time focus on improving the lives of the people who live here. We will maintain our entrepreneurial philosophy, while practicing our principles and values within the context of lessons learned from the past.

“I am optimistic and have great faith in the future of The Hill Companies and our province. I believe our enterprise will continue to enjoy the success brought about by dedicated employees and partners.”. flr

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finelifestylesregina | style feature

Hello Baby,

hello (again) Regina!

B Y K R I S TA C O R N I S H S C O T T

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Not content with the basic umbrella stroller and hand-me-down crib, today’s parents are shopping smart. Armed with tools like Canadian Consumer Reports and reviews from online shopping sites, they are concerned about quality and value. Unlike previous generations of parents, they increasingly are considering ethical and environmental issues as well.

But just because they now bear the label “Mom” or “Dad.” doesn’t mean they are ready to sacrifice their sense of personal style. Being covered in spit-up is no reason to shun fashion trends. And buying from a store that you trust has become especially crucial with recent headlines about toxic baby products and dangerous recalls. Garage sales, the traditional source of great deals for baby, have become overshadowed by the knowledge that lead or BPA or pthalates may be lurking in your child’s hand-me-downs and vintage toys.

Motivated by parenthood It was personally entering this brave new world of parenting that motivated Amy and Jason to take the plunge and imagine a business plan where their personal sense of style could merge with their desire to think ethically and healthfully about what they chose to bring into their children’s lives.

Spring 2010

PHOT OGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

my (Kolot) Habicht and her husband Jason opened Hello Baby in April of 2006 in response to what they perceived as an open niche in the growing “mommy boutique” market. Its spacious location at 2555 Quance St. in Regina’s east end overflows with a cornucopia of every product a parent could possibly want, or perhaps didn’t know they wanted… yet.

When pregnant with her son Sebastien, Amy tirelessly researched baby mattresses and soon became frustrated with the laissez-faire attitude of many manufacturers about the chemicals used in such an important product. Seeking out NaturaWorld, a Canadian company started in Ontario, she carefully sourced natural 23

and organic mattresses, bedding and accessories for her store and for herself.

Jolene Dusyk, a mother of two and a selfemployed glass and jewelry artist from Montmartre, benefitted from that diligent research when her daughter was an infant.

“Ella was coughing at nights when she was three months old and it was getting profine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | style

Regina parents are definitely looking for a higher-end, better-quality product than what the box stores offer. I think what makes prairie consumers different than those in bigger centres is that while we appreciate style, we also want to know why we’re paying for something. We’re not going to just buy it because everyone else has one.

gressively worse…we looked for anything that might help us. The first thing Amy asked was what type of mattress did we have (we had a hand-me-down plastic version) and she recommended a change.

Within a few nights of sleeping on the new NaturaWorld mattress, Ella’s coughing was gone.”

gram and some part-time babysitting for Juliette, there is more uninterrupted time to pour into the business. For Hello Baby customers the children were an adorable and engaging bonus to the shopping experience, and many still ask Amy and Jason about Sebastien and Juliette.

Keeping their family close while working made opening a business in Regina a logical choice for this young couple. For several years, customers were likely to see Sebastien and Juliette in the store alongside their parents. This allowed for precious extra time together when the kids were young and made it much easier for Amy to breastfeed on demand, something that was very important to her.

Motherhood still a driving force

“I wasn’t keen on leaving my baby with a daycare or with a babysitter,” says Amy. “Until the last few months, the kids were in the store with us every day. We feel very fortunate to have been able to spend the time with our kids while they’re little, and although it adds to the challenge, I still wouldn’t trade the time with them.

We try and teach the kids to respect when we’re with a customer and not interrupt, but sometimes potty breaks can’t be delayed!”

Now with Sebastien in a Montessori pro24

Her personal experience as a mother of young children continues to be a driving force in Amy’s choosy selection for her shelves. “I would say I have used almost every single product we sell in the store, and if there’s a product we don’t carry, there‘s usually a good reason for it,” she affirms.

Items like the NaturaWorld organic bedding, popular Canadian baby footwear brand Stonz and eco-friendly Seventh Generation unbleached diapers tend to fly off the shelves despite their higher price tag. But wouldn’t some say that the idea of spending a cool thousand bucks on something to push your kid around the park in is a little crazy in these uncertain economic times?

Satisfied customer Allison Mang, a 30something dentist and mother of 19-

fine lifestyles regina

month-old Louisa, doesn’t regret her recent purchase of the hottest baby stroller going: the Bugaboo. “We plan on having more kids. The really expensive items we will reuse and eventually will sell.” When considering her options for a big-ticket item like a stroller, Allison wants to buy something that is high in quality. She will also readily admit that it doesn’t hurt when the stylish, futuristic stroller is the darling of celebrity moms as well. “I like when something really cool that I see in a magazine or in the newspaper is available right here.”

Regina customers seem to agree. Access to the Internet has made buying local more of a choice than a necessity. Instead of having one or two options for a desired product, there are myriad choices from retailers all over the country.

“Shop local”

“We like buying from Amy because she and her husband are both from here, and they are both very friendly and knowledgeable,” says Allison. Jolene agrees, noting that in addition to wanting a personal relationship with a store she can call both for help and friendly chit-chat, “as a small-business owner myself, I want to support and promote others who are sticking their necks on the line to do what they are passionate about.”

Amy and Jason’s experience as business owners has been deeply influenced by their own parenting journey. This is reflected not only in the focus of their store, but also in the way they have been able to reconcile the busy life of the self-employed with the even busier life of parents of two. Knowing they had both sets of grandparents and a large support system of friends and family available “played a large role in our decision to come back.”

Spring 2010

For a while they kept an eye out for opportunities elsewhere. Jason’s background is in film and Amy has a graduate degree in French. They both moved to British Columbia for school and while living in Victoria it made sense, at least at first, that they would be looking farther afield for a place to pursue their careers. They looked into graduate schools in Ontario and explored opportunities in Europe.

“We had no intention of staying in Regina,” laughs Amy. “But every time we looked at other cities, there was always a reason not to go. Whether it was for financial reasons, career reasons or personal reasons, the move never seemed to come at the right time.”

With a thriving business and happy children surrounded by family, it’s clear that Amy and Jason are glad to have said “Hello (again) Regina” after all. flr 25

PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

In spite of this, business owners like Amy and Jason see shoppers making a conscious choice to “shop local” in the same way that many are choosing to “eat local.” Supporting your local familyowned business sends ripples out into the community, and becomes worth spending a little more.

fine lifestyles regina

Tina Caderma Jessica Bridal 1783 Hamilton St. Regina SK 757-8055 s the end of the high school year quickly approaches, so does your need for the perfect graduation dress. With the options seemingly endless and overwhelming, a little advice can go a long way.

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Vibrant purple, sapphire, red and burgundy are the hottest colours for this year’s gowns. Styles vary, from the classic pick-up or cupcake skirt adorned with jewels, to 10-layered tulle princess skirts and silky charmeuse in everything from solids to the most funky, fresh and fashionable prints.

Not sure which style is for you? Try one of each and get into a dressing room. Once you have tried each of them on, one style will speak to

style

EXPERT ADVICE

CHOOSING A GRADUATION DRESS you more than any other.

Try not to have your heart set on a specific colour in advance—this is the biggest mistake I see girls make. By falling in love with the perfect shade, you are limiting your choices before you begin. It is better to find a style that you love and that complements your body type. You can worry about the colour afterward.

Buying your dress on the Internet can be tempting, and if it’s the route you choose to go, make sure you’ve done your research in advance. Go into stores and try on similar styles and make sure it’s the right size and exactly what you want.

Avoid the chance of being disappointed on your

big day because your dress is not what you wanted or expected.

And finally, think outside the box and don’t judge a dress by its hanger. Dresses drape differently on your body than they do on the rack. Keeping an open mind and your options open will help you find the perfect dress for the celebration you so rightly deserve.

Because we have our own warehouse, we are able to order your dress up until the last minute.

It’s not too late! Come visit us at 1854 Hamilton St., and let us help you look your very best on your special day. flr

PUR Natural Fashion is an environmentally conscious high fashion clothing store.

With naturally sustainable, organic and fair-trade styles for both men and women to suit their everyday needs.

With designs from all around the world such as Loomstate, Lav & Kush, Stewart and Brown, Second Clothing, Indigenous Designs, Hemp Hoodlambs, Sublet and more. Also don’t forget to accessorize your outfit with our hand-made in Saskatchewan jewelry from Pink Fire Designs and more accessories soon to come.

3134-13th avenue, regina, sk ph: 306.565.0264 fax: 306.565.0371 email: purnaturalfashion1@gmail.com www.purnaturalfashion.com

mind, body, spirit, style Spring 2010

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finelifestylesregina | style

Dorothy Pearl Uniforms Offering high-quality, comfortable uniforms in the new Value Mall location B Y T O B I E H A I N S T O C K

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heila Martin has been an LPN since 1975. During that time, she’s seen the styles and trends in nursing uniforms change dramatically.

“When I first graduated from nursing school, everything was white and we all had to wear dresses,” she says. She recalls that the uniforms were often uncomfortable and impractical for the day-to-day duties of a nurse, and also remembers how difficult it was to get high-quality, comfortable uniforms that were also functional.

“Sales reps would come out to the hospitals from Calgary and I used to think, ‘I could do this from home,’” she says with a smile.

PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

Eventually, that’s exactly what Martin and her husband did. Dorothy Pearl Uniforms (named after Martin’s late mother) began in October 2001 in Martin’s home. For years, Martin and her husband, Bob, ventured out on the road to hospitals, conventions, recruitment seminars and more with their selection of high-quality, stylish uniforms.

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The response to their customer service and high-end product was so positive that when Bob retired last year he decided to go on the road fulltime. This also proved to be a strong step forward for the business. The demand became so great that on February 18, 2010, Dorothy Pearl Uniforms opened at a new location, in the Value Mall on Broad Street in Regina.

It was truly a family affair getting the new location ready for opening day.

With the help of Martin’s son Stacy and daughter Charity, the new Dorothy Pearl Uniforms store has more of a fashionable boutique look than one would expect.

There is a wide assortment of stock availfine lifestyles regina

able, catering to professionals of many types. “We offer uniforms for different medical fields, including dental,” explains Bob Martin. “We can even get restaurant apparel.”

Carrying a variety of well-known and respected suppliers like Cherokee, Baby Phat, Mobb Scrubswear, Carolyn Design and more, Dorothy Pearl Uniforms offers an assortment of fashions to suit many tastes. Dorothy Pearl Uniforms also carries maternity uniforms, plus scrubs for men and EMS uniforms.

“We offer accessories too,” Martin says, showing a display of socks, stethoscopes, pocket organizers and more. Discounts are available for students at Dorothy Pearl Uniforms, and, for graduation, nursing caps can be ordered.

If customers can’t make it into the store, Dorothy Pearl Uniforms offers an online service on its website, www.dorothypearluniforms.com. “Just place your order and we will ship it out to you,” Martin explains “We’ve shipped out to as far away as Pelican Narrows.”

As Martin approaches her upcoming retirement from nursing, she will miss her former profession, but she looks forward to a bright future with Dorothy Pearl Uniforms. “I think I’m going to have fun with it!” flr

Spring 2010

Dorothy Pearl Uniforms, Value Mall, 1230 Broad Street, Regina Mon.to Sat.: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Thursday until 9 p.m.

Tel: (306) 347-3137 www.dorothypearluniforms.com

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Lee Seal Manager, Stylist, Makeup Artist Rumors Hair Studio 5938 Rochdale Blvd.

924.3114 www.rumorshair.net

s the beauty industry grows, so does the knowledge and capability behind the two hands in which you put your trust. Gone are the days of the bubblegum-smacking, chainsmoking hairdresser. We are now journeyperson-accredited, highly knowledgeable stylists with certificates and ongoing education. Perfectly blending art and science, the stylist today has many techniques to draw upon.

Possibly the most important aspect of the stylist’s career is establishing and maintaining a client’s trust. Once that trust is there, so too is a friendship that can last for years.

As with any relationship, it can sometimes have a rocky start. “My bangs were a bit too short last time.” “I know you said it wasn’t a good idea but I really want to be blonde.” “That straightener really dried out my hair.”

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style

EXPERT ADVICE

FINDING A STYLIST Sometimes clients hesitate to tell their stylist they want to change or alter a detail of their hairstyle or hair colour—especially when the client/stylist relationship is in the early stages. Communication is vital in friendships and relationships. It’s a way we can iron out the kinks and make sure your salon visit is a gratifying one, and your relationship with your stylist a long one.

A stylist who is a good fit for you will love to hear your requests or objections. It makes the overall stunning look you’re after more attainable, and that is our goal. Our passion is to create beauty, so we will always have your best interest at heart. A compatible stylist will gladly discuss your wishes, making suggestions based on an arsenal of technique and knowledge about what will work best with various face shapes, textures, colours, lifestyles, products, and more.

Generally people tend to gravitate towards people with similar tastes and personalities, not that there’s never an “odd couple”—perhaps a stylist with a red Mohawk happily chatting with a client about her grandchildren, while perfecting her neat silver bob.

Once that level of communication and trust is developed, you will no longer fear taking the plunge and mixing it up from time to time, confident that the fringe your stylist suggests really will make your face appear more slim, or changing your hair colour will enhance your eyes. You will laugh and share secrets, feeling more at home in the salon than ever before.

So sit back and relax: this could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship. flr

Myst Salon and Spa Chris Pritchard Creative Director/Senior Stylist

2062 Cornwall St. (306) 525.4020 www.mystsalon.com

ou develop an advanced sense of overall good taste when you live and breathe this industry. I believe that having a developed and diverse taste is so important in making a difference for my guests.

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Once you know the classics and basics perfectly, you can then reconstruct them into the most suitable style for the individual and the culture they’re exposed to. An understanding of history and current trends is essential for this.

Spring 2010

style

EXPERT ADVICE

IN GOOD TASTE Stylists exposed to constant advanced education, who stay up to date with the fast-paced fashion and beauty industry, can continue to stay inspired and develop their taste, therefore incorporating that into an advanced execution for their guests.

Honestly, perfect curling-iron curls on women, on most women, aren’t attractive. Look at the runways in Paris and Milan. You’ll rarely see that, yet stylists push that out of the salon every day.

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It goes back to taking classic ideas, and reconstructing them into a modern, exciting approach.

As a stylist in a salon, I feel that if you’re going to be doing something every day, why wouldn’t you want to be extremely good at it? That’s what makes it fun.

The hairdressers that “get this” are the hairdressers we hire at Myst Salon and Spa. flr

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Spring 2010

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finelifestylesregina | style

Solitude & Soul Perfect jewellery in a print-perfect world

BY SHEENA KOOPS

PHOTOGRAPHY: DRAW N DAISY PHOT OGRAPHY

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n a perfect world, one would hope for purpose, peace, beauty and balance. Tara Duckworth, of Solitude and Soul, is the creator of such a world.

Her custom-made fine silver jewellery combines aesthetics and inspiration, memory and signature designs.

Tara’s fingerprint pendant was not her first creation, but it is one of many setting her apart. She says, “When working with metal I realized I could see my fingerprint. I had this ‘A-ha!’ moment; if I could see mine, then I could make others’ visible too.” She first tried what is becoming her premier design with her grandfather. She says, “I spent the day with him, and while I was there, realized that I had my silver in my purse. So I said, ‘Gramps, let’s do this.’ I made eight prints that day. I still don’t know why I had my materials, and don’t know why I went at that exact time, but I did, and I’m thankful. He passed away five days later.” Tara was able to give her Dad and his six siblings their father’s fingerprints in fine silver, a piece of him to keep close to their hearts.

But Tara’s world was not created overnight. Before she found her calling in silver, she was designing jewellery for the Regina Farmers’ Market. Tara’s customers often asked if she could put a certain word on the jewellery. She says, “During this time, I was doing a lot of soulsearching myself and came across the video The Secret. I loved the idea of the gratitude rock; but women don’t always wear jeans or pants with pockets. I thought, ‘What if I made a necklace with “gratitude” on it?’”

Tara struck silver, and with reading and good-old-fashioned trial and error, the rest of her world-creating is history. She made pendants that said “courage” and “belief,” for, she says, “that one cancer pa-

fine lifestyles regina

Spring 2010

pendant. Each piece is so different; it allows me to create something meaningful.” But all of her pieces retain Tara’s signature design, ensuring their place in jewellery collections and, more importantly, as soul-filled family heirlooms, keepsakes, and gifts of love.

Let Tara write something perfect on your heart: a touch of “Solitude and Soul” from her fingerprints to yours. flr

PHOTOGRAPHY: DRAW N DAISY PHOT OGRAPHY

tient at his next chemo treatment or that single mom going through school and not knowing how she is going to do it.”

Tara’s 2008 venture began in earnest with the naming of Solitude and Soul, so that she could “create more than just a pretty piece of jewellery.” She takes her business seriously, saying, “If I can provide people with just that little pinch of hope or comfort, then my job is done.” Already in nine stores in Saskatchewan and Alberta, as well as her on-line store (www.solitudeandsoul.com), Tara is well on her way to giving many more people “that little pinch of hope or comfort” as she dreams of 50 stores in the not-toodistant future.

People from all walks of life are joining Tara’s world, wearing her fine silver pendants, earrings, necklaces, and charms. In fact, Carrie Underwood accepted a pendant last fall when she was in Regina.

Tara says, “I love hearing their stories; it gives me purpose as an artist, and really, just as a woman looking for purpose.”

Yes, Tara has found her purpose, and she will be very busy as Regina and the rest of Canada discovers her purpose as well.

Tara is up for the adventure, customizing the inspiration people are looking for.

She says, “A lot of times it is a certain word that resonates; other times it’s a name or maybe a date on the back of the

Solitude & Soul 306.527.1219 tara@solitudeandsoul.com www.solitudeandsoul.com 33

fine lifestyles regina

Sherylee Staudt Shear Escape Salon & Spa 949-0599 www.shearescape.ca EXPERT ADVICE

HAIR STYLING re you starting to notice that your hair colour is looking a little flat and dull these days? Now is the time of year where we are not only holding our breath waiting for spring to arrive, but the cold weather is starting to show its dry, dulling effects on our hair and skin. Over the winter months there are a number of factors that can contribute to a change in your hair colour and its reflection of light. A few of the main culprits are indoor heating, wind-chill factors and excessive blow-drying. All of these things not only make your hair feel dry but also take away the shine of your colour.

A great way to add some shine back to your hair is by adding tone-on-tone highlights to a rich base colour. For example, if you are a rich chocolate brown or deep redhead, try adding some dark-caramel or medium-copper highlights. By adding these subtle natural tones around your face you will instantly brighten your hair colour and skin tone, as well as add shine and dimension.

Being a natural redhead myself, I take pride in creating custom colours based on shine, dimension and skin tone. One of the areas I specialize in is enhancing your natural colour to complement your skin tone, whether you are a redhead, brunette or blonde.

Another way to repair this problem and get your hair ready for spring is to ask your stylist about getting a treatment prior to your colour service, or if they can recommend an at-home treatment to use in between services. During these months it is important to keep the hair moisturized to protect the integrity of your hair and the longevity of your colour. Redken offers a great in-salon treatment line called the Chemistry System. With this system, the stylist has the ability to custom-mix a treatment especially for your needs. A popular mix to cure the winter blues is using equal parts of the Colour Extend and All Soft treatments.

Redken also offers these great product lines as home treatments for you to use in between services.

Overall, it is equally important to take care of your hair in between services year round. To help you with that, Shear Escape is proud to be the first salon in Canada to provide a great new product that even Cleopatra herself would envy. It is called Orofluido, which is an exquisite hair and skin elixir made up of three natural oils, Cyperus oil from Egypt, Argan oil from Morocco and Linseed oil from the Mediterranean. Combining these three oils can do wonders for your hair, adding shine, protecting against heat, managing frizz and, most importantly, giving longevity to your colour. Visit us today at Shear Escape Salon & Spa and let our experienced stylists cure your winter blues and prepare you for a beautiful spring!

Sherylee Staudt has been working at Shear Escape Salon & Spa since the day it opened in August of 2005. Throughout her eight-year career she has taken many classes, ranging from the Vidal Sassoon Academy to The Redken Exchange, both located in Toronto. She has a passion for the industry that shines through in every complete look she creates for her clients. flr

A

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fine lifestyles regina

Let us help you make your own

FASHION STATEMENT REGULAR AND PETITE SIZES • JAG JEANS • TRIBAL SPORTSWEAR • FDJ FRENCH DRESSING • PURE SWEATERS • WOOLRICH • LIBRA • BANTRY BAY • HIROKO

Come and check out our

New Spring Wear Our goal is customer satisfaction.

FASHION STATEMENT Victoria Square Shopping Centre Stacy Svendsen, Owner

Spring 2010

35

Regina (306) 761-5222

fine lifestyles regina

Some love lasts a lifetime.

True love lasts forever. ~ UNKNOWN

Life is nothing without friendship. ~ MARUS TULLIUS

Keep your thinking right and your business will be right. ~ ZIG ZIGLAR

finelifestylesregina | style

Sources

Female model is wearing blue denim dress Sublet with white bracelet by PinkFireDesigns all available at PUR Natural Fashion 3134-13th Ave., 306.565.0265, www.purnaturalfashion.com.

BigBuddha purse, Bella sandals and Three’s Company necklace and ring all available online at www.bellachic.ca.

Male model sporting blazer, grey top and jeans all

by Loomstate available at PUR Natural Fashion, 1234 13th Ave., 306.565.0265. Shoes are model’s own.

Male model wearing Loomstate cardigan with blue button shirt and denim all available at PUR Natural Fashion 3134-13th Ave., 306.565.0265, www.purnaturalfashion.com. Shoes model’s own.

Female model wearing bow top by Sublet Clothing and jeans by Second Jeans all available at PUR Natural Fashion 3134-13th Ave., 306.565.0265, www.purnaturalfashion.com. Bracelet by Three’s Company, shoes Go Fresh and grey purse by BigBuddha all available online at www.bellachic.ca.

Model on left wearing purple pattern dress by In Wear, jean coat by Part Two, necklace, bracelet and earrings all by Jewels by Terri and Monica, brown rose tote by BigBuddha. Entire outfit with sandals and accessories available at Stella & Sway, 1845 Scarth Street, 306.205.8642.

Model on left wearing suit jacket with black pants

by Periphery, black tank by Simply all exclusively available at Hall & Rae, 1842 Hamilton St., 306.352.2221. Necklace by Three’s Company, black purse by Vintage Décor, boots by Go Fresh all available online at www.bellachic.ca

Model on right wearing black top by Freeloader, Boyfriend jeans by James Jeans, bangles and earrings by Jewels by Terri and Monica, gunmetal purse by BigBuddha. Entire outfit with sandals and accessories all available at Stella & Sway, 1845 Scarth Street, 306.205.8642

Center Model wearing Periphery taupe suit and blouse all available exclusively at Hall & Rae, 1842 Hamilton St., 352.2221. Necklace by Three’s Company and yellow purse by High Fashion Handbags all available online at www.bellachic.ca

Model on the left wearing black shirt by Kersh, grey sweater by In Wear, Motorcycle denim, earrings and bracelet by Jewels by Terri & Monica, Gunmetal purse by Big Buddha Bags all available at Stella & Sway, 1845 Scarth Street, 306.205.8642.

Model on right lounging in pink top and light denim

by Part Two, Berkley brown bag by Big Buddha Bags, earrings and bracelet by Jewels by Terri & Monica, all available at Stella & Sway, 1845 Scarth Street, 306.205.8642

Model on the left wearing black tank by Simply with dress pant, jacket and aqua sweater all by Sandwich, all exclusively available at Hall & Rae 1842 Hamilton Street, 306.352.2221. Jewelry by Three’s Company with pink purse by BigBuddha all available online at www.bellachic.ca. Sandals model’s own.

Center model wearing Sarah Pacini black dress with blue knit dress and rope necklace all exclusively available at Hall & Rae, 1842 Hamilton St., 306.352.2221.

Photography by fotobella Photography, 306.540.5268, www.fotobella.ca.

Makeup by TANDA SPA, 306.586.1321, www.tandaspa.com.

Hair by Natalie Gray of Satori Hair Studio, 306.352.3600, www.satorihairstudio.com.

Location courtesy of Chateau Regina, 1110 Victoria Ave East, 306.565.0455, www.chateareginahotel.com

Spring 2010

Male model in suit by Kenneth Cole, shirt by Omega,tie by Ted Baker, belt by Tumi,pocket square

by Dion,shoes by Cole Haan all available at Colin O'Brian Man's Shoppe Ltd., 1825 Hamilton St., 306.584.9300

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Male model in suit by Strellson, sport Shirt by Jack Lipson,belt by Tumi, pocket square by Dion, shoes

by Cole Haan all available at Colin O'Brian Man's Shoppe Ltd., 1825 Hamilton St., 306.584.9300

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | style

From necklaces to bags to shawls…

here are this spring’s top five fashion trends! bigger and better than before! Layer statement pieces on both your neck and wrist to get the perfect look.

BRACELETS BY THREE’S COMPANY

Bold Color

Big Flowers Spring has sprung! It’s time to wear your flowers! Vintage flower rings, big flower headbands and bags are the rage this season. Push your fashion limits with a new bag from Big Buddha or High Fashion Bags.

With the statement jewels comes the BOLD color! Don’t get lost in the crowd. This is your season to be seen.

Colors from bright yellow and orange, bright blue, lush green and eggplant, coral and turquoise are back the Spring.

New to the season are pastels mixed with vibrant colors.

find bold floral crystals and color added to the mix.

JEWELS BY THREE’S COMPANY

BAGS BY HIGH FASHION BAGS

Statement Necklaces and Bracelets

Chic Shawls

Less is definitely not more.... big, big and bigger is the way to go! Make yourself (or at least your jewelry) the mecca for everyone’s eyes! It’s no surprise this emerging trend is sticking around for another season, but fashionistas take caution - it’s

Scarves have been worn forever but this season find shawls that are versatile to take you from the office to a night on the town to the beach! From heavy knit to light-weight wear the color to fit your mood.

Magnificat Metals & Gorgeous Pearls Need I say more?! Metals and pearls have been on the runways for a few seasons now and they are not going away anytime soon. Shiny or brushed metals, silver accents and gold, paired with black can be worn by anyone. New this Spring

Spring 2010

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MAGIC SHAWL BY ARTISAN

At Bella Chic we strive to be the first to bring you the newest trends always at prices that allow you afford. Look like a rock star with breaking the bank! flr Find us online at www.bellachic.ca.

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | style

Cozy Cradles & Kids Wear Quality brand-name clothing and accessories for any budget

BY TRILBY KNUTSON

N

o matter what their budget, parents will find the quality brand-name kids’ clothing and accessories they are looking for at Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear. Located in Regina’s University Park, the store has all the new and nearly new items parents need to keep their children well-dressed and cared for.

“We offer something for everyone,” says Kim Kezama, owner of Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear. The store carries a full selection of children’s clothes, ranging in size from preemie to teenage. They also sell large items, including bassinets and cribs, and infant accessories.

PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

“We’ve got a wide range of new baby accessories that are phenomenal,” Kezama says.

Spring 2010

Much of the store’s stock consists of nearly new items sold on consignment for its customers. Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear only sells used clothing and accessories that are in mint condition, focusing on popular brands such as Carter, Hurley, Mexx, Roxy, QuickSilver and Lululemon. By purchasing nearly new items, parents can get the brand-name looks their kids desire, while paying a fraction of the cost.

The store also sells a variety of nearly new accessories and shoes, as well as children’s furniture, exersaucers, strollers and car seats. All items are checked against product recall lists, and must meet safety standards before they can be sold in the store.

“People have the chance to buy used, use the item, and if it’s still in amazing shape, resell it again,” Kezama says.

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While buying used allows parents to save money without sacrificing style, Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear also offers a large selection of new products for parents who love to stay on top of the latest trends. In fact, Kezama says one of the store’s biggest sellers is its new line of LimeApple girls’ yoga wear. “It’s awesome stuff,” she says.

We even carry the Cuddle Bubble Hoodies that all the girls love.

Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear carries children’s formal wear, perfect for the upcoming wedding season. It also sell many styles of kids’ shoes, including brands such as Robeez, Pediped and Squeakers.

Expectant mothers can also browse through Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear’s maternity clothing, which includes everything from casual wear to formal dresses.

One of the unique services Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear offers customers is the ability to rent items, such as car seats or playpens, for short periods of time— when the grandkids come to visit, for example. Kezama says this gives customers the convenience of having all the products they need to provide short-term childcare, without the hassle of arranging for long-term storage.

With spring and summer fast approaching, a visit to Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear is the best way for parents to find everything they need to outfit their kids for the brand-new season. flr Cozy Cradles & Kid's Wear 176 University Park Dr., Regina (306) 789-5422

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | style

Toni’s Naturally Fort Qu’Appelle’s must-visit store for women seeking selection, style and service

BY AMY NELSON-MILE

T PHOT OGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

oni’s Naturally in Fort Qu’Appelle is a must-visit store for any woman who wants to choose from quality items in a range of different styles and prices. Owner Toni Norton has more than 25 years’ experience in retail, and it shows in every part of the store: the selection, the display, and the service.

Norton is passionate about providing the best possible experience for her customers. To begin with, she has variety.

She says, “If you want something fun and different, I’ve got it. If you want something basic, I’ve got that, too.” Toni’s Naturally also has items that will appeal to women of all age ranges, from 20 to 90.

Norton carries many excellent clothing lines. She loves Modea—they have a great sportswear line, and she carries their denims, skirts and sweaters. “Their jeans are a great fit,” she says, “and right now I have a great little white blouse of theirs with lovely ruching and great button detail.” She is also a fan of the Lana Lee and Frank Lynan lines and points out that they are especially good for the full-figured woman. “I have some wonderful tops by Libra, and some great items by Cartise. I’m really excited about Tricotto’s spring line, too.”

And, she adds, “I also carry a great line of fun, exciting T-shirts and some terrific leathers.” The leathers are from three different lines and range from $200 to $500.

Some of them are red and butter-coloured as well as the regular black and brown.

Looking forward to spring Norton’s spring pieces are just starting to come in, and she’s looking forward to them. She says this year women will see a lot of looks from the ’80s, such as widefine lifestyles regina

leg pants. She says there will also be a lot of the feminine look in tops, very flowing and soft.

In addition to clothing, Norton carries many accessories, such as jewellery.

“Treska is one of my main lines and they’re outstanding—they do such a great job with the colours, the beads, and how they’re mixed together.” She also carries Lucy the First and Garbo. Plus, says Norton, “I bring in a lot of great little watches.”

She doesn’t stop there. “I carry reading glasses, too. My customers love them because they’re funky. These are not the kind you find in the drug store.

“My customers love shopping here—they have a lot of fun.”

“My customers love shopping here— they have a lot of fun.”

Norton works with her customers to make sure they find something that will suit them and that they will enjoy wearing. “I know my lines, I know what’s going to work for them,” she says.

“Sometimes I’ll show them something and encourage them to try it on. They’ll say to me, ‘I would never have tried that on if you hadn’t suggested it,’ but they wind up loving it. When they leave here they’re happy with their purchases.”

She gets to know her customers, too, and is always keeping them in mind. Because she is the sole buyer for the store, her knowledge of her customers serves her well. “When I’m buying I think of my customers and I think of them in the clothes I’m looking at.”

Everything is hand-picked “I hand-pick everything,” she explains. “I try to bring in something different.

However, I also make sure that the outfits can be something women can wear regularly. For example, I bring in the type of dresses that are great to wear when you’re attending a wedding but you can wear many other places as well.”

Norton makes sure that the variety in her store applies to her prices as well. “I offer items in all price ranges. I want everyone to feel comfortable here, whether they’re dropping in on their way to the hardware Spring 2010

store or whether they’re here for several hours of shopping.”

In addition to the clothing and accessories that she offers, Norton carries a product called the OxyLift oxygenated facelift system. This hand-held device uses high frequencies to purify the skin, and is a natural way to get your body producing collagen again. “They’ve been using the same technology in spas for years,” says Norton. “Now you can use it at home. It’s excellent for anyone with large pores, acne, puffy eyes, cellulite and thinning hair.” Norton gives her customers a free three-minute facelift while they’re shopping at the store because she wants them to see the difference—and they do!

Norton says that OxyLift can simply be incorporated into a beauty routine. “After you wash your face and apply cream you 47

can use this.” It’s a very popular item; Norton has sold more than 800 of them and hears enthusiastic responses about it regularly (see tonisnaturally.newfreshstart.com for more information about OxyLift).

“This is a Cathi Graham product,” says Norton. “I also carry her anti-aging cream, her hydro mist, her ReliefPlus (for arthritis), and her sea kelp (which helps the thyroid, increases energy, detoxifies heavy metal, and helps with natural weight loss).

“I have a lot of customers from Regina.

I’m just 45 minutes outside of Regina— a perfect distance for a day’s shopping and lunch.” flr 121 Broadway Ave., Fort Qu’Appelle Mon.-Sat.: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

fine lifestyles regina

egina citizens know that there’s no better place to shop for a motorcycle than one of the oldest bike shops in Canada, Prairie Motorcycle. What they may not realize is that Prairie Motorcycle offers much more than just bikes.

Prairie Motorcycle

“Since changing locations in 1995, our clothing line has really expanded,” coowner and business manager Caron Zora-Hertzog explains. “Harley-Davidson has an entire collection that goes above and beyond riding gear.”

B Y K AT H R Y N L A V A L L E E

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offers the hottest biker-look fashions

The new Harley-Davidson Pink Label collection is a perfect example. While the line does feature certain pieces designed for riding, like gloves and sunglasses, it also consists of stylish and comfortable T-shirts, tanks, hoodies and drawstring pants.

The line is unique in that it focuses exclusively on women. In fact, a portion of the proceeds from sales of the Pink Label collection is donated to Rethink Breast Cancer. “Harley-Davidson has really started to focus more on women in the last few years,” says Carrie Kohlruss, general merchandise manager. “Clothing for women used to be very limited. There was a time when the women’s line was just a smaller version of the men’s clothing. The current pieces are properly styled and fitted for females.”

Harley-Davidson is continually adding new pieces to their core clothing line as well as adding pieces seasonally. Of course, motorcycle owners are recurrent purchasers. However, many of the frequent customers at Prairie Motorcycle are simply looking for the hottest new Harley-Davidson clothing.

“If you open up any fashion magazine, you’ll see that the biker look is very hot right now,” Caron explains. “Many of our customers simply love the allure of the biker look. And Prairie Motorcycle is exclusively devoted to the Harley-Davidson line, so women know that they are getting the authentic look in biker wear.”

The knowledgeable staff also plays a key role in outfitting the many customers of Prairie Motorcycle. “Our staff is dediSpring 2010

cated to assessing your clothing needs and suggesting the appropriate pieces,” says Caron. “Whether you’re a crosscountry driver, a city biker or a fashionforward woman looking for the hottest trends, we will be able to find the perfect clothes for you.”

The women’s line includes pieces sized for tall, petite or plus-sized women so that every customer can fulfill her desire for a gorgeous biker wardrobe. “Prairie Motorcycle is definitely not just a garage,” smiles Carrie. “We have pieces for everybody, and our Harley-Davidson 49

clothing goes far beyond the traditional, functional biking gear. We offer stunning, high-fashion pieces from the most trusted name in the motorcycle industry.”

Clearly, the new Harley-Davidson is no longer just about motorcycles. And Prairie Motorcycle is committed to offering women the newest and trendiest items in a collection that is fresh, fabulous and ultimately feminine. flr Prairie Motorcycle 1355 McIntyre St., Regina, SK (306) 522-1747

fine lifestyles regina

The BEBE BUMP 305 Fairford St W., Moose Jaw 306.693.6632

Spring 2010

RUBY BL UE PHOT OGRAPHY

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regnancy is such an amazing time in a woman’s life. As a mother of 11-month-old twins, I know how busy and overwhelming your life can be. At The Bebe Bump Maternity Boutique we combine high-quality service, fashionable maternity clothing and reasonable prices with comfortable maternity clothes that every momto-be needs and the latest maternity fashions. The Bebe Bump Maternity Boutique carries designer name brands such as American Eagle, Tomorrow’s Mother, Born Naked, rockstarmoms and HotMilk—to name just a few—to satisfy your craving for style.

The Bebe Bump has a large selection of morning sickness products from the Ginger People to help you feel as good as you look in our clothes. With Angle Baby, the skincare line by earth mama, you can pamper yourself with pregnancy kits that have organic teas specially designed for pregnant mothers and oils to help your growing belly stretch.

Even if you aren’t pregnant, stop in to find amazing baby shower gifts that any expectant mom would be delighted to get. We can custommake a baby shower basket to fit your budget and style.

In The Bebe Bump you are bound to find something for all your maternity occasions. If you can’t find maternity jeans that fit, we can even custom-install a panel onto any pant or jeans for $40.

With women expecting the very best in style and products, ranging from wipes, warmers, bebe boost seats and wash pods by prince lion heart to apparel, we are definitely your bump, birth and beyond store. flr

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fine lifestyles regina

Back to basics finelifestylesregina | health and wellness

Raymond Lavallee works to preserve the knowledge of traditional First Nation medicines B Y J U D I T H S I LV E R T H O R N E

P

assing on his knowledge is of the greatest importance to Raymond Lavallee, who is respectfully referred to as an Elder, Wisdom Keeper, Medicine Man and Pipe Carrier from the Piapot Cree First Nation in the Qu’Appelle Valley 40 kilometres north of Regina.

“We must do everything possible to share our knowledge of medicines and our culture before these traditions become lost,” says Ray, whose expertise in and abundance of natural medicines extends well beyond that of most traditional healers in Western Canada and the United States.

Lavallee’s grandmother, Mabel Whitestar, was a Medicine Woman who lived to the age of 104. She passed on her knowledge of 100 plant medicines, and Ray has since added many more through his contacts with others around the world. As a result,

Spring 2010

his combined knowledge spans more than 160 years, with the roots of these teachings stemming back several centuries through ancestors and connections to other First Nation Peoples.

“I used to toddle after my grandmother when I was a child of three,” Ray says.

“We were never forbidden to go along.”

Today his children and grandchildren follow him as he works. “This is the best kind of teaching.”

Lavallee knew he was different by the time he was 12 years old. He tried to deny his calling and his heritage for many years and went off to work in a mine, as a carpenter, and as a rancher and farmer, among other jobs. While recovering from a stroke some years ago, he finally decided to accept his gifts.

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Dedicating his life Much like becoming an ordained priest, he dedicated himself to his life’s mission and revitalized his abilities. In the process, he travelled with Elders all over North America, including into Mexico.

Besides learning about medicines, he listened to their stories and became a storyteller. He also learned to speak several First Nation languages.

His extensive knowledge of all aspects of the Plains Cree traditions and understanding of others has garnered high respect in many diverse communities. For many years, Lavallee was the master of ceremonies for powwow circuits, and is still recognized and introduced with reverence, as he is at other special ceremonies and traditional dances. fine lifestyles regina

Lavallee has also assisted staff and programs connected to the medical, corrections and justice professions. While working as a consultant, lecturer and trainer in Native Cultural Awareness, his clients have included the RCMP, Regina Police Service, the Wheat Pool, SIAST, Royal Saskatchewan Museum and the First Nations University of Canada, among other institutions and groups in both Canada and in the United States, including western medical doctors.

as she gathered and worked with local medicinal plants.

“Our culture and philosophies reflect our belief that everything we need is provided by the Creator and Mother Earth.

Our gratitude is shown in our traditional ceremonies,” says Lavallee, who continues to learn and explore every day.

Bridging the cultural gap

Over the years, Ray has travelled extensively around the globe, promoting his Cree culture and demonstrating Cree songs and dances, which also helped develop the confidence and talent of the youth and adults involved. He’s been to Europe 19 times and to places like Japan and New Zealand, consulting other traditional healers, and studying and trading different medicines.

At his home, Lavallee has welcomed local and world travellers to attend cross-cultural workshops and camps to help bridge the cultural gap between native and nonnative peoples. During these sessions, he has conducted nature walks and explained about the medicines found growing along the way. Visitors have also experienced sweat lodges and pipe ceremonies, heard traditional singing and drumming, eaten traditional meals and slept in tipis.

He noted with surprise that indigenous healers in other countries work in much the same ways as his own grandmother.

For instance, in 1993, when he was in Switzerland, he met a grandmother, who was a healer. She also prayed and honoured her ancestors and Mother Earth,

This sharing of his culture wasn’t always the case, even for his own people. These and other practices were forbidden by the government for decades, but are now slowly being reintroduced and accepted as part of the First Nation culture that was almost lost. Ray has been an integral

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part of this transition. He was one of the first Elders in Saskatchewan to allow non-Native people, especially woman, into sweat lodges.

In his everyday work with his people, he holds regular office hours on the reserve, and provides family and other counselling for several tribal districts. He officiates at weddings and funerals, conducts sweat lodges and pipe ceremonies, and performs other specialized ceremonies and dances, following ancient traditions.

Lavallee also works with on-reserve and off-reserve kids, especially those in innercity Regina: for example, as a consultant with the youth at the North Central Family Centre. He also has troubled youth work with horses, finding the natures of these animals conducive in helping heal mind and spirit.

Sharing his knowledge In recent years, Ray has concentrated his efforts on working with apprentices to share his medicines and their attributes.

Currently he is working with the Eagle Moon Health Office in the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, on their fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | health and wellness

Place yourself in our light

Restoring a Path to Wellness Project, which encompasses gathering First Nation and Métis knowledge-keepers within the region and bringing them together with people looking to access traditional healing ways, including through prayers, talking and healing circles, sweat lodges, ceremonial healings, and administering natural plant medicines.

Although he still continues to share his lifetime of learning, today Lavallee has reduced his rigorous world travel and intensive training sessions, due to his own health restrictions and advancing age. Yet, he’s still very active in his community, continuing to serve people and to preserve and promote his culture, as well as devoting many long hours to the process of gathering and redistributing medicines.

“Our medicines are no longer as readily available locally,” Lavallee says. Agricultural infringements and other losses of habitat, the oil and mining industries, pesticides and pollutants have taken their toll, and he has to go farther away to collect what he needs, sometimes travelling thousands of miles each year throughout western North America.

“We also trade medicines with many people. We don’t all have the same medicines or the same knowledge about them,” says Lavallee. “There is more to simply knowing what medicines to pick and when to pick them. You just can’t dig it and bring it home. You have to learn how to dig, respect, clean, cure, store and utilize them.”

He adds, “One has to honour and respect the medicines and the way they heal.” Permission also has to be granted to have the right to use these medicines, adds Lavallee. One has to be given the knowledge in a special way, again through ceremony and prayer.

..

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TÄNDA

Holistic Spa and Skin Therapy

Training others is vital

..

306.586.1321 www.tandaspa.com

Training others is of vital and immediate importance to Lavallee before there is no one left to impart and preserve this knowledge. “We must strengthen and revitalize our cultural identity and spiritually,” he says. And along with this, he wants to ensure his knowledge and traditions and the values of the plant medicines are passed on, so that young people can carry on this crucial healing work.

His biggest dream is to see the integration of traditional plant medicines and healers with that of western medical practices— something he may not see in his lifetime. Yet he is hopeful, especially now that there is more interest from medical doctors, and many people and health practitioners are turning to the natural herbalist ways when current medicines do not work.

“These natural methods have been here since ancient times,” says Lavallee, noting that it takes many years of learning to acquire the skills. “These medicines have been curing and saving lives for centuries.”

He hopes this tradition will continue. flr

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fine lifestyles regina

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www.hearinghealth.ca

GOLD SQUARE

1442 BROAD ST. CORNER OF BROAD AND DEWDNEY

306.359.6868 306.359.6858 Toll Free 1.800.667.6008

Dr. Nicole Mitchelson DTCM, R.Ac, RMT, B.Sc. Allied Health Centre University of Regina Phone (306) 337.2643 www.drmitchelson.com

eadache, fatigue, insomnia, depression and more are commonly attributed to stress. Should we simply “take a pill” and temporarily dull the symptoms, or should we treat the whole person and improve the body’s ability to cope?

In my last column, I discussed my journey with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture. In this column, I want to begin discussing TCM techniques and therapies, and their applications to health care.

In my practice at the Allied Health Centre (University of Regina), I work closely with other health professionals to provide the best treatment for my patients. In TCM, the pathways of qi, or energy, flow throughout the entire body.

TCM approaches treatment from the inside out, treating the underlying cause of disease, thereby restoring balance.

TCM can also help patients to manage stress.

Stress is a natural, nonspecific response to the demands we make on our bodies. Healthy

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Dr. Debbie Davis, Au.D Doctor of Audiology Eastside Audiology

health and wellness

EXPERT ADVICE

MANAGING STRESS stress, such as appropriate physical activity, combined with positive thinking and good eating habits, can keep us alert and motivated.

It can also provide a natural response to emergency situations. In ancient times, the stress response, or “fight or flight” response, provided us with the energy to preserve life by activating all of our body’s available resources for survival.

The pace of modern life, with everything from terrorism to road rage, has caused more frequent and more consistent stress. With the increase in physical, emotional, and mental stressors, our stress response can become “locked in” and deplete the body’s natural resources.

Unhealthy stress may be caused by negative emotions, overexertion, poor eating habits, lack of sleep, or chemical and environmental pollutants. Over a period of time, such unhealthy stress may trigger physical and emotional problems, including physical disease.

Signs and symptoms of an overactive response

to stress include: anger, anxiety, asthma, depression, depressed immune system, digestive disorders, headaches, heart disease, high blood pressure, joint pain and weight problems.

Practitioners of TCM and acupuncture have been helping people cope with stress for 2,500 years. When qi (pronounced “chee”) becomes blocked or the supply becomes inadequate, the body and organs become “stressed out,” compromising health.

TCM practitioners evaluate the quantity and quality of qi, to support and restore the integrity of organs depleted by an unhealthy stress response.

As well, they may suggest adjunct therapies to speed healing, such as proper eating habits, exercise, movement and medication practices.

Acupuncture and TCM can provide a safe, effective, and drug-free alternative treatment for stress.

In upcoming columns, I will discuss how TCM can help in the treatment of a variety of health problems, including those specific to women. flr

health and wellness

EXPERT ADVICE

HEARING Bluetooth: what is it, and what does it have to do with hearing? n short—and this is straight from Bluetooth.com—Bluetooth wireless technology is built into electronic gadgets and lets you talk and share information like voice, music, and videos wirelessly.

How does this relate to hearing? Well, one of the biggest issues hearing-aid users have is that they can’t hear very well on the phone. Today’s hearing aid manufacturers have devices with Bluetooth technology built in to them. This al-

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Spring 2010

lows the hearing aid user to answer cell phones, watch the TV, or listen to MP3 players like iPods directly through their hearing aids, wirelessly.

Where the person with normal hearing has to get up to answer the phone, the hearing-aid user simply has to push a button and their phone calls come directly through their hearing aids. Where the person with normal hearing hears the phone through the ear they put the phone to, the hearing-aid user hears everything through both ears.

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Having trouble hearing the TV? Same concept.

Have an older hearing aid but still want Bluetooth connectivity? If your current device has a telecoil in it, there are now adaptors that will allow you to connect wirelessly to your electronic devices as well.

With the small sizes, unique shapes and colours, and now Bluetooth connectivity of today’s hearing aids, it truly is an exciting time within the hearing industry! flr fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | health and wellness

Helping Hands Care Group promotes independence for seniors and people with disabilities

BY MARIE POWELL MENDENHALL or setting up services on a maintenance plan, they can give their parents the gift of time in the form of services with a professional homemaker or caregiver.

Continuity counts with clients One big advantage of the Helping Hands Bridging Program is continuity. One or more care providers are assigned to each client, and the same caregiver will provide care for the same client each time.

“Each caregiver, homemaker, or nurse is carefully selected to fulfill the clients’ needs,” Monaghan says. “We foster lasting interpersonal and therapeutic relationships with our clients and their families.”

Independence is a need that doesn’t diminish with time, age, ability or illness.

“H

elping Hands Bridging Program and Personal Care Home provides a valuable service to help people maintain their independence as long as possible,” says owner-operator Heather Monaghan.

Helping Hands Bridging Program provides top-quality professional care, with professional assistance and service options tailored to individual needs.

The company offers an individualized approach. Their clients may live in their own residences, or in group-living environments, whether they are seniors or people with disabilities who want to remain as independent as possible at every stage of their lives.

A program of services is developed after a free initial in-home visit with a Bridging Program Coordinator. Many times the Spring 2010

adult children of those who require care will call to initiate or set up services.

“Often these callers are the ‘sandwich generation,’” says Monaghan. “They just don’t have the time that they’d like to spend helping their parents. Many women, who are traditionally the caretakers of elderly parents, are now working outside of the home. They find managing their own home, working fulltime, caring for their children, and caring for aging parents to be very stressful.”

As a result, Helping Hands has developed a new program called “the gift of time.”

Adult children of parents who would benefit from assistance in their home now have an ideal way to remember their parents during special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or holidays, Monaghan says. By purchasing a gift certificate 56

Helping Hands’ unique, client-centered approach helps tailor services to meet each client’s individual needs, “so they receive exactly the right kind of assistance.”

For example, caregivers can provide such services as home-cleaning and organizing, meal preparation, and personal care services. They may provide pet care, or social calendar planning. They may accompany clients to social outings and appointments, act as companions, or provide hospital or nursing-home sitting.

Helping Hands caregivers have also made a significant difference for clients who require hospitalization, Monaghan says. In several cases, Helping Hands caregivers provided bedside assistance, help getting around the hospital, and help with physiotherapy exercises on the physiotherapists’ days off.

“I find the increased socialization and the increased care and attention get people out of the hospital more quickly,” says Monaghan.

Caregivers may also run errands or provide personal shopping assistance. They provide respite for family caregivers who fine lifestyles regina

require a daily or weekly break, or are going on holidays.

Helping Hands caregivers can also provide specialized care services, such as colostomy care, dialysis care, feeding tube maintenance, palliative care, and similar services. They can help clients take medications, monitor medication schedules, and even set up phone call reminders or check-ins. Nursing services are delivered

by Registered Nurses (RN's, RPN's) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN's).

Flexibility helps improve client options Another important feature of the Helping Hands method is flexibility. “We work with our clients to develop a schedule that works best for them.”

Home care services help seniors and people with disabilities remain in their own homes or assisted-living environments.

Statistics show that seniors who can access services in their own homes experience an improved quality of life, with decreased stress levels, and decreased incidents of illness or hospital admissions, she adds.

Helping Hands Personal Care Home is an option that can work alongside or in conjunction with bridging services. The Helping Hands Personal Care Home offers an option for individuals who require residential supervision, assistance, personal care, or nursing services at all Spring 2010

levels of care. The 3,000-square-foot fully accessible home offers private and shared rooms, a tastefully decorated common area, meals, and a program of entertainment and activities. New features include a 33-gallon aquarium, set up with the assistance of the Regina Aquarium Society.

“We have clients who have developed a relationship with us,” she says, “and when their health does fail eventually, they may move from being bridging clients into our personal care home for more extensive assistance.”

For example, Helping Hands provided 24-hour care for a retired physician in his home. “When the time came that he required a more therapeutic atmosphere, he moved into our personal care home.”

and employs only Saskatchewan people.

Helping Hands caregivers are professional, and understand the Saskatchewan Health Care System.

“We know our health care system and are dedicated to providing the highest quality care and assistance,” she says. “We will advocate and provide invaluable support for you and your loved ones.”

Potential clients or family members who want to learn more about Helping Hands, or discuss services, should call 545-7733 or visit the website at www.helping.ca.

Helping Hands 226 Hansen Drive, Regina (306) 545-7733 www.helping.ca

Helping Hands is entirely locally owned, 57

fine lifestyles regina

Spiro Kangles BSP Pharmacist/Owner The Medicine Shoppe 5928 Rochdale Blvd.

(306) 775.1343

health and wellness

EXPERT ADVICE

WOMEN’S HEALTH omen’s health needs differ from that of men. As pharmacists, it is important for us to recognize that treatment approaches must not focus only on the condition, but must also consider the emotional and lifestyle concerns of patients. Traditionally, research in women’s health centered on reproductive and fertility-related areas. In recent years, however, the domain of women’s health issues has expanded considerably due to advocacy and media attention. Breast cancer, osteoporosis, menopause, and thyroid disease are a few areas of expanding concern. Consider these facts:

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• Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women. One woman in nine is expected to develop breast cancer during her lifetime, and one in 27 will die of it.

• Osteoporosis affects one in four women over the age of 50.

• In Canada, thyroid disorders are estimated to affect one in 20. Most thyroid disorders are five to seven times more common in women.

• Menopause is a natural process that occurs in every woman as she gets older, and is not

a medical problem, disease, or illness.

Still, some women may have a hard time because of the changes in hormone levels.

If one idea emerges about women’s health, it is that ignorance is the enemy. As health-care professionals, we are getting more sophisticated at reaching and educating patients. As pharmacists, we can assist our patients to understand these health concerns and take an active role in managing their health. By helping women manage their own health, we are supporting a healthier family structure. flr

Trena Olfert Tanda Spa (306) 586.1321

health and wellness

EXPERT ADVICE

PREPARING SKIN FOR SPRING ooray! Winter will be on its way out shortly and with it the peeling and dry patches winter has brought to our skin. So bring on the sunshine and heat! It’s best to prepare your white winter skin for some summer fun. Mud wraps are great for getting rid of dead skin and may even be great for weight loss.

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One of my faves is using organic brown sugar with hints of cinnamon and honey to brighten dull skin from head to toe (unless your face or chest is sensitive—then substitute with egg whites to soften and brighten skin).

Seaweed and peppermint body wrap or bath soak is exhilarating for your skin and provides luminosity. It may also help with skin rashes on the backs of arms or legs.

Don’t forget to get your feet looked after, too! Book yourself for a full-meal-deal pedicure at your local spa. It will be sandal weather soon! flr Spring 2010

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fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | health and wellness

The Water Warehouse Specializing in water softening and purification

BY SUSAN EASTON

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hen you want your home to have the purest, best-tasting water for drinking, and the softest water for washing, the place to turn to is Regina’s Water Warehouse, at 1540 Park St., where you’ll find the equipment and know-how you need.

Inside its 7,500-square-foot facility, the Water Warehouse purifies bottled water, services water softeners and pumps, and sells products made in Saskatchewan by Hydrotech, located in Regina.

The Water Warehouse offers free water analysis for people interested in the mineral content of their water. For bacteria analysis, people are referred to the Saskatchewan Disease Control Laboratory (formerly known as the Provincial Laboratory).

Regina water is safe because it is treated and tested. On farms, however, where water may come from a well or dugout, arsenic and bacteria problems may exist.

Communities around Regina who use wells may also have bacteria. Chlorination and ultraviolet sterilization can be installed to purify the water.

Regina residents are mainly interested in water-purification systems that improve the taste and aesthetics of their water.

That usually means a water softener and perhaps reverse osmosis (RO). The Water Warehouse offers these on a rental, purchase, or rent-to-own basis.

Reverse osmosis, a membrane filtration system, filters submicron particles and trace minerals from the water. A carbon filter then blocks any chemicals that are in the water. This system improves the taste of drinking water, ice, and beverages such as coffee, tea and juice made with the filtered water.

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The Water Warehouse recommends installing a water softener to help fixtures last longer and showers and tubs to stay cleaner. A water softener will also cut soap consumption by half, so consumers save on soap and fewer cleaning products go down the drain. Softeners also protect the plumbing and water heater from scale build-up.

The Water Warehouse will service any type of softener as long as parts are available.

They can also hook up softeners, as well as pumping systems, for testing in their shop.

The Water Warehouse also sells and installs Rain Bird, Toro and Hunter underground sprinkler products. People can bring in their landscape design, and The Water Warehouse will draw up plans for them at no charge if they buy the products from the business. It can be a do-it59

yourself project, or The Water Warehouse can install.

The Water Warehouse feels it is important to leave the smallest possible ecological footprint. Last year the company replaced its lighting and furnaces with more efficient models, and it uses fuelefficient vehicles. As well, it offers the most efficient water-softening products, which use less salt and waste less water.

The Water Warehouse can be reached at 522-4447. You can also check out their products and services at waterwarehouseregina.com. flr The Water Warehouse 1540 Park Street, Regina, SK (306) 525-5421

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | health and wellness

Children can be taught to read. They can be taught how to count. They can be taught how to create the most complicated sentence structures and given the tricks to solve the toughest algebra equations, but without motivation, they are just being taught. Until students begin to understand what is being taught and how it relates to them personally, they will not be motivated to actively think about the topic or incorporate it into their understanding.

Helping students rediscover school motivation

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t’s easy enough to recognize a student who isn’t motivated in school. She forgets about her homework and assignments, doesn’t perform well on tests, and frequently complains about disliking school. An unmotivated child is not a happy student.

Not surprisingly, school dissatisfaction usually goes hand-in-hand with poor grades. “When we’re asked by parents to help their child get better grades, one of the first things that we look at is how motivated the child is to learn,“ says Janet Klassen, Centre Director of Oxford Learning Regina. “That’s because motivation is key to improving grades. Without motivation, students have no personal drive to improve.”

Parents can become very frustrated by what they may see as apathy in their child. What is sometimes difficult to understand is that motivation is an inner drive, so yelling about the importance of school is an ineffective way to help children develop interest or an inner desire

Spring 2010

to learn. A parent can tell a child that strong reading, writing, and math skills are important to be successful in life, but it rarely means much of anything to the average 10-year-old.

Children need to understand the reason why an activity is important to them and the reason must be in the context of their lives. Each child is unique and his or her motivating factors will be as individual as each child.

All children are capable of possessing great amounts of motivation. Give any 12-year-old a new video game and he has the drive to get to Level 5 without much prompting or coaching. In fact, in life one of the greatest learned feats is the acquisition of language. Babies begin to learn language because they are driven to understand and make sense of their world. It’s a huge feat that requires no small amount of motivation. This is a great example of how, with a little success to build motivation, any goal can be achieved.

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Motivation is one of those qualities that might be hard to pinpoint, but parents can play a productive role in helping their children develop motivation. Be sure your children understand your expectations at their level. Listen to the concerns your children may have about their difficulties at school. Trust that your children want to succeed and help them gain the understanding and skills to be successful. By listening to the things that are important to your children, you will have the tools to help them achieve success and motivation in school.

Once a child has developed the skills to be successful in school and the student understands his or her subject, then the motivation to succeed is born. “We help students of all ages tap into what excites them about learning,” says Klassen.

“Our programs help students develop better thinking and learning skills so that they get better grades. It’s no surprise that with success comes the motivation to get even better grades. It’s a great thing to be able to watch students become excited about learning once again.” flr For more information about how Oxford Learning’s programs can help students become motivated, contact Janet Klassen at Oxford Learning Regina, (306) 790-2000, regina@oxfordlearning.com.

Visit oxfordlearning.com for more program information.

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | health and wellness

Main Street Dental State-of-the-art technology, state-of-the-art service

BY TRILBY KNUTSON

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ain Street Dental Clinic is dedicated to incorporating state-of-the-art technology into every aspect of its business. On top of contributing to a more efficient and relaxed work environment, the clinic’s use of cutting-edge technology plays an essential role in its ability to deliver topnotch patient care on a number of levels, including better communication, accurate diagnosis, faster care and recovery, and a more comfortable overall experience.

Main Street Dental has maintained a strong reputation in the Moose Jaw community and surrounding area since the clinic was first opened 50 years ago. In 1990, Main Street Dental expanded to its present location at 636 Main St. N.; the modern, open-concept office features a large front desk, a comfortably designed waiting area, and 14 operatories where treatment is carried out.

Technology has been integrated into every inch of the office, from the reception area where patients can confirm appointments by email and text, to the digital cameras in each treatment room, which enable patients to get a clear picture of their dental health.

Digital X-rays benefit patients Digital radiography, or digital X-rays, is one of several new technologies used in the clinic. “One of the big benefits with digital radiography is that the amount of radiation used is about one quarter of Spring 2010

RUBY BL UE PHOT OGRAPHY

“There isn’t anything in this office that isn’t basically done on a computer,” says Dr. Mike Barker. As one of the clinic’s three dentists, Dr. Barker works in partnership with Dr. Kell Viczko and Dr. Ly Troung.

what you would use on a standard dental X-ray,” says Dr. Barker.

“Communication with patients, specialists and insurance companies is a lot easier with digital X-rays,” adds Dr. Kell Viczko. The images are taken instantly, and can be shared just as quickly via email. Digital X-rays also take high-quality images; the larger images allow for a 62

more accurate and quick diagnosis and provide a better visual reference to help patients understand the specific details of their dental health.

Lasers are another important technology, frequently used at Main Street Dental for applications such as detecting cavities, performing gum surgery, removing biopsies, and treating cold sores. fine lifestyles regina

Dr. Viczko says low-level laser therapy is commonly used to promote the healing of tissues. In fact, when lasers are used for tasks such as sculpting a patient’s gum line after braces have been removed, or treating a socket after a wisdom tooth has been extracted, it results in no bleeding, decreased inflammation, a faster healing time and less post-op pain.

“One of our really, really cool technologies is doing what we call one-sitting crowns, where you can come in and have the crown milled right in our office,” says Dr. Barker. The process uses a camera and computer-aided drafting technology to take a 3D image of the damaged tooth and design a perfect-fitting crown. The crown is created and bonded to the tooth, and the entire process can be completed in about an hour.

Serving patients from a vast area Main Street Dental has a huge service area, with patients traveling from as far as Estevan, Craik and Chaplin. Being able to save a patient a second trip to the office is often very appreciated, says Dr. Viczko. “In a practice where you have a large rural drawing, not having to come back two weeks later or have their mouths frozen a second time is a huge thing,” he says. “Patients love it.”

Finding ways to make treatment easier for patients is very important to Main Street Dental’s staff. For example, in many areas, patients would have to see a specialist in order to have a dental implant put in.

Main Street Dental, however, recognized the benefit to the patient of having the entire process completed at a single location, and now offers the full service at the office, from the planning stage, to the surgery, to implant restoration.

Invisalign is another popular innovation at Main Street Dental, providing an alternative to traditional braces for adults and teenagers. Instead, a series of virtually invisible aligners, designed somewhat like a whitening tray, are worn in twoweek intervals, moving the teeth bit by bit until they have reached the desired position. Dr. Barker says the entire process can take up to 40 percent less Spring 2010

time than traditional braces, for a similar cost. They are also less painful and can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.

With Invisalign, patients are given a sneak preview of their final results through the creation of a digital model of their teeth. “You plan out every movement before you start, so the patients can watch how their teeth are going to progress before they even consent to the procedure,” says Dr. Viczko.

A strong team of professionals Main Street Dental’s commitment to technology is backed by a strong team of experienced professionals who work to provide patients with the best possible experience anyone can have while visit63

ing a dental office. Their staff regularly goes above and beyond in the level of service they provide, whether this means making sure patients fully understand their insurance plans and get the most out of their dental coverage, or employing a large number of dental therapists whose ability to complete basic procedures reduces overall wait times.

“The benefit is that so many of our patients are more than just patients. They really are our friends,” says Dr. Barker.

“We work really hard at trying to keep the atmosphere like that.” flr Main Street Dental Clinic www.mainstreetdentalclinic.com 636 Main St. N., Moose Jaw, SK (306) 692-6438

fine lifestyles regina

Dr. Rhea Anderson, O.D. Optometrist/Partner

health and wellness

Advance Eye Care Center 500-4010 Pasqua St. 586-7036

ersons of all ages require routine eye examinations, but they are especially important for children, who are often unable to perceive or communicate that their vision or eye comfort is not as good as it should be. Children have no other standard to compare to, and may believe that the way they are seeing is how everybody sees. Studies show that nearly 25 percent of school-aged children have vision problems.

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As with any condition, early diagnosis and management generally results in the best outcome.

Children’s eyes are not fully “hard-wired” to the brain until they are approximately eight or nine years old. This allows us to treat and ideally eliminate many potential “lazy eyes” (amblyopia) caused by an uncorrected refractive error (prescription) or an eye turn (strabismus). Even after age eight, many conditions can still be successfully treated.

ADVICE FROM YOUR OPTOMETRIST

EYE CARE The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that children have their first eye examination by at least age six months, again by age three and annually throughout the school years. Children don’t have to be able to identify letters or pictures on a chart to test their vision. Early examinations include measurement of the child’s vision and refractive error, ensuring that the eyes are aligned and working well together, depth perception, and perhaps colour vision.

A thorough eye-health examination will also be performed to test for conditions such as congenital cataracts and congenital glaucoma. Most children enjoy eye examinations. Children are covered by Saskatchewan Health for eye examinations up until their 18th birthday.

Additional tests, called in-depth vision assessments, are available for children who have diffi-

culty with learning. Many children who struggle in the classroom have difficulties with visual-processing skills or eye-coordination skills such as tracking words along a line of text. Vision therapy is available to treat some of these underlying conditions. Our clinic offers this testing and therapy; some patients are eligible for coverage of these additional services by Saskatchewan Health.

Remember to protect your children’s eyes from damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays year round. Eighty percent of all eye-related sun damage occurs by the age of 18. When selecting sunglasses for your child, ensure the lenses provide 100percent UV protection and are made of impactresistant materials to promote safety.

The doctors at Advance Eye Care Center are accepting new patients. Call 586-7036 to arrange an appointment. flr

Orthopaedic Surgery Plastic Surgery LAP-BAND® Dentistry

530 UNIVERSITY PARK DRIVE, REGINA, SK S4V 2Z3

Spring 2010

P: (306) 545.8181

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It’s about You, and How We can Help

F: (306) 545.8182 INFO@OMNISURGERY.CA

WWW.OMNISURGERY.CA

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Canterbury Lofts

anterbury Lofts is an exclusive nine-unit condo development in Regina that combines gothic architecture with contemporary design and a central location in the heart of old Regina.

Modern luxury in a historic setting

What makes the development unique is that the units are in the old St. Chad’s building, which dates from the early 1900s. There are other grand old buildings in the complex, as well. Some are refurbished, and some are awaiting renovation. Nearly all of them are located back from College Avenue amongst the old pathways, trees and gardens of a bygone era.

St. Chad’s was first used as a theological school for Anglican men and later as a girl’s school, earning distinction and popularity until the 1970s when the school had to close as the fortunes of the Spring 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BERG

Designed by Montreal architects Brown and Vallance, St. Chad’s was built during 1913 and 1914 and features elements of the Collegiate Gothic style, which was popular for schools, colleges and churches at the time. The original exterior of St. Chad’s was two to three storeys of dark red brick, trimmed with stone and roofed with cedar. There were Gothic windows with pointed arches, crenellated towers, and sculptural elements. And they’re still there. This is a heritage building, so the distinguishing features have been retained. If you walk around the red-brick exterior, you’ll find terra-cotta icons of some of the saints, and the odd cherub in a cornice of the roof, watching from on high.

BY BRIAN BOWMAN

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fine lifestyles regina

Qu’Appelle Diocese declined. The property was then taken over by the provincial government and put to a number of temporary uses. More recently, it was approved for sale and redevelopment.

The building is large. Before it closed, it served religious, academic and athletic needs. Part of it, a more recent tie-in to the original structure, was a gymnasium.

This had hardwood floors and exposed hardwood arch-beam roof trusses.

PHOT OGRAPHY: J ESSE COVE RT-RUTT E N BE RG

“I saw the potential” It was exactly what Kurtis Dmuchowski, of West Dee Construction, was looking for. “When I walked in it was just an empty gym. But I saw the potential,” he says. The transformation was a big undertaking, even before new construction began. “It took us five months, working with up to 12 crew, for demolition, before we could start construction,” says Dmuchowski. “I designed all the layouts and then had an architect check it.”

The result of his labour is nine units.

Seven are inside the old gym, where the high ceilings favoured development of two- and three-level condominiums. Two others are in the oldest part of the building. At 2,300 and 2,600 square feet, these units are the largest, and have full basements. But they are still at the framing stage, and not yet on the market. Of the nine units, Dmuchowski is retaining one for his own home. Since the owners of the other condos will be his close neighbours, it’s a measure of confidence in the strength of his vision.

West Dee Construction was one of the first Saskatchewan companies to adapt old buildings for residential reuse in the province. Examples of their work are

The hardwood archbeams that were a feature of the old gymnasium have been left exposed. fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | homes and real estate

The three-level plans on the south side of the building range from 1,626 to 1,642 square feet and come with stainless-steel appliances, including a dishwasher and wine fridge. All are top-quality, and working surfaces on the island and counter are finished in quartz. There are three bathrooms (two full, one half ), two bedrooms, and a 10-foot-by-20-foot patio off the living room. The master ensuite bathroom has a separate shower and a corner bubble-jet tub.

The larger 1,634-to-1,885-square-foot two-level units on the north side of the building are finished and furnished in the same way, with a few extras. The master bedroom ensuite has double sinks, plus a corner Jacuzzi tub and a steam shower.

There is a rooftop deck off the master bedroom, which is reinforced for added strength and wired for a hot tub.

Uncommon common features Due to the wide range of floor area, all of the units are somewhat unique in design. But they also have features in common. The levels are stacked, and appear to be floating, while skylights and large windows provide good natural light for a warm and airy living space on any level.

As well, all units have original, refinished hardwood flooring on the main level.

Elsewhere, there is Artica (high-grade vinyl) flooring in the kitchen and bathroom areas, and high-grade carpeting on stairs and upper floors.

The hardwood arch-beams that were a feature of the old gymnasium have been left exposed. They now anchor thick divisions between suites and form feature walls within them. All the units have solid-core doors for safety and privacy.

tended to wear, look good, and be safe for decades. A heated garage is also common to all suites and the common area is a beautiful southwest-facing courtyard.

The grounds are already partly enclosed with mature trees. So, depending on the new owners’ consensus, plans for common areas could include a larger patio in a private park, with, perhaps, a swimming pool.

So far, two of the show suites are finished. One has a grey motif; the other a gold one for a distinctly different feel.

The kitchen cabinetry is common to both and highly distinctive: Madagascar ebony, deeply lacquered. It is beautiful wood, and unique to the extent that it may not be used in other units. That said, changes to accommodate owners’ preferences can certainly be accommodated.

In fact, one change has already been made. The counter in Dmuchowski’s own condo is onyx, golden and translucent and one-of-a-kind in the province.

Dmuchowski says he saw another example of it elsewhere and it made such an impression that he located a supplier and put it on the island in his unit. It’s awesome to look at. When lit from below it’s like peering into a cloud nebula. As with the Madagascar ebony cabinets, this material can be hard to source or obtain.

But Dmuchowski likes that sort of challenge. If you want something special, he may be able to find it.

Of course, spacious top-end condos in ideally located heritage buildings are highly desirable and anything but common—which means they aren’t for everyone. But they could be for you. flr Prices for these units start at $499,900.

RE/MAX Crown Real Estate Ltd. is handling the sale and show suites are open every weekend, Saturday and Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointment with either Kirk Kozan, 591-5970, or Ramona Miazga, 791-7691.

Outside, the patio deck surfaces are covered with a recycled rubber brick that feels like clouds underfoot and is inSpring 2010

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PHOTOGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T E N BE RG

found in other areas of Regina and in Saskatoon, where their conversion of the former T. Eaton building won the Architectural Heritage Award of Excellence for adaptive reuse in 2008. All of them are exclusive and desirable properties, but this one excels.

finelifestylesregina | homes and real estate

Richardson Lighting offers exclusive new Steven and Chris line by Artcraft

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his is a story of two companies, from different parts of Canada, who since the early ’70s have grown together, sharing the same core values of a total commitment to service, honesty, and a straight-forward, no-nonsense approach to business and people.

Back then, Artcraft Electric Limited was a young lighting manufacturer from the East and Richardson Lighting a growing store in Saskatchewan. The relationship between the two companies grew, with Artcraft designing and manufacturing fashionable lighting in its Canadian plant and Richardson continuing to display, stock and sell the products.

In 2009, based on the long relationship of trust, Richardson undertook to display and market the new and exclusive Steven and Chris line, manufactured under license by Artcraft.

Steven and Chris have become Canadian household names with their TV shows and their own lines of furniture, textiles, decorative accessories and area rugs. Seeing how popular they were, and needing to expand into cleaner and simpler designs, Artcraft teamed up with them to produce what has become one of the hottest Canadian lighting lines: the S&C Lighting Collection

by Artcraft. The S&C designs are available in Saskatchewan exclusively at Richardson Lighting.

Today, Artcraft is the oldest Canadian lighting manufacturer, celebrating 55 years in business and still wholly Canadian owned and operated, while Richardson Lighting is celebrating more than 43 years of business and is Saskatchewan’s oldest lighting distributor, with stores in both Regina and Saskatoon. Both companies are fiercely Canadian and independent, and both have long-serving loyal staff, working hard every day to serve their customers. Together they are ready for new challenges and are excited about the future.

Stop by Richardson Lighting today to see the new S&C Lighting designs by Artcraft. flr Richardson Lighting, 2101 7th Avenue, Regina, SK (306) 525-8301 www.richardsonlighting.com

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fine lifestyles regina

Creating Your

Backyard Retreat

8:05 pm The smell of the flowers is invigorating.

The kids are asleep & life’s...

Perfect.

AAMP Landscaping & Excavation Ltd. Amanda and Michael Park, Owners • Tel: (306) 536-AAMP (2267) • Email: aamp@live.ca

www.aampsask.com

finelifestylesregina | homes and real estate

Coverings by Design A destination for design inspiration

PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

BY G.H. LEWMER

O

ne of the greatest gifts bestowed on human beings by the Greek gods was the ability to create designs of such beauty and integrity that they comfort and inspire all who come into contact with them.

Coverings By Design co-creator Cindy Rogan says that design is all about taking a blank canvas, then adding good design ideas to create the atmosphere in which you feel most comfortable.

“We like to say, ‘Ideas for the Way You Live,’” Rogan says. “Once people begin

Spring 2010

to understand that their design ideas are good ideas, and I’m here to help these good ideas evolve into great ideas that are best suited for their needs, the floodgates suddenly open and all their creative energy comes rushing out. The most gratifying aspect of my profession is to see my clients’ lives enhanced by their realization that they are indeed creative beings. “

with 31 years of experience in Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg and Regina, Cindy has enhanced thousands of lives with her design expertise. She has taken this expertise and along with Darren Illingworth has opened Coverings By Design, a design studio for interior designers, decorators and everyday professionals like you and me who are looking for “a destination for design inspiration.”

Three decades of experience

The idea for Coverings By Design arose from Cindy and Darren’s sense that an important need was not being addressed

As an Independent Design Consultant 71

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home accessories and applicable design needs. The well-lit, spacious interior features easy-to-navigate sections. It’s all clearly focused on honouring and accommodating clients’ requirements. According to Cindy, that was a conscious decision.

“We wanted to carry the best products and materials that we possibly could,” she says. “For example, we’re the only outlet in Saskatchewan where you’ll find a collection of premium-quality floorcovering products featuring the exclusive Shaw Flooring Gallery, Mirage Hardwood Gallery, AlysEdwards Haute, and Groovy and Couture tile collections.”

That’s just for starters. “We’re also only one of two outlets in all of southern Saskatchewan that showcases the Alustra Collection by Hunter Douglas,” Cindy continues. “The Alustra Collection is the premier collection of their best-quality products, with exclusive fabrics and design features. We also present an extensive library of fabrics, decorative hardware and trimmings—Maxwell, Telafina, Kravet, Joanne and more.

within the Regina design community.

“We realized that here in Regina if someone wanted to look into doing some design work for their home or business, they had to travel to numerous venues to address all their various needs and requirements. We saw that people were spending so much time going to all these different places that their creative visions became compromised, and as a result they were not getting proper value for their design investments of time and money.

“We wanted to morph that experience into satisfaction by offering the best qualSpring 2010

ity, choice and advice for everyone’s design needs; to open up a design studio that people would only have to visit once to satisfy a majority of these needs. We both feel that we have realized that goal with Coverings By Design.”

Awe-inspiring diversity and quality When you first walk into Coverings By Design you’re awed by the diversity and quality of choice that the store offers in floor coverings, window fashions, fabrics, 72

“Our studio is the exclusive Maxwell and Telafina fabric showroom for Saskatchewan, with hundreds of designer fabric patterns on display. We have immediate access to local seamstresses here in Regina as well as a factory of experienced artisans in Edmonton. We also offer uniquely designed custom window fashions, bedding and home accessories. As the Kravet Design Custom Home Furnishing showroom, we can offer Kravet’s collection of unique home furnishings, from upholstery to dining and occasional tables.”

With extensive shopping experience from around the world, Cindy was quick to realize what the two most important ingredients were for any design destination.

“We wanted to offer choice and especially offer the quality that comes with choice. We know that many of our suppliers are enthusiastic about the potential of this store, and many are approaching us to be the exclusive representative of their products. We find that people are a lot more excited about the potential of fine lifestyles regina

their own creative vision when they realize they’re getting the highest-quality products, materials and service for their design investment.”

For a design aficionado, entering Coverings By Design is like coming into the living room on Christmas day when you’re six years old. In the flooring section you’ll discover brand names as diverse as Ames, Armstrong, Arteca, Casa Roma, Ceratec, C & S, Crossville, Estates, Euro, Mannington, Stone Collection, Tarkett, Tuftex and Wicander.

It’s no different when you enter the window covering section, also known as Studio C Designs. There you can browse through the Studio C showroom, where products by Maxwell, Telafina, Avant Garde, J. Ennis, Joanne, Kravet, Robert Allen and Tritex are prominently displayed. It’s easy to lose yourself in the myriad of opportunities to realize, enhance and expand your design dreams.

Design stations let you experiment Cindy and Darren were especially aware of the importance of creating numerous design stations where people would have the needed resources, space and time to experiment with their ideas and be open to whatever creative adjustments, choice and diversity can bring to best-laid plans.

“We wanted to create an environment for people to be comfortable in while they are creating,” Cindy says. “We designed the design stations within our store specifically with that in mind. We have five design stations to choose from that are peoplefriendly, wheelchair-accessible, close to all the displays, and have plenty of space for customers to lay out all their choices and decide which direction is the best. We anticipate they will be the busiest areas in the entire store.”

Just as design is a creative pursuit that is constantly flowing and expanding, so too is the store. Explains Cindy, “We have an upper level with two offices where Cindy Rogan Designs for Living Inc. and Ambiente Interiors are located. If you’re visSpring 2010

iting the store and feel that you want to hire someone with extensive design experience to assist with your design vision and choices, we’re right there and available to help by appointment. We’re also in the process of creating a database and a resource library that customers can access in the future to give them even more options. If there’s a way to offer anyone who comes into Coverings By Design a greater selection of ideas and opportunities to maximize their creative potential, we want to offer it.”

excitement about what the future holds for Coverings By Design. “Little did Darren and I realize that we would end up opening such a store—a store that would simplify everything that was complicated about design work.” flr Coverings By Design 411 Park St., Regina (306) 779-2010 info@coveringsbydesign.ca

Cindy is bubbling with enthusiasm and 73

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PHOT OGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T E N BE RG

Electronics should suit your life in sleek, easy-to-use style, according to Radio Centre.

Spring 2010

Radio Centre looks after you for the life of your electronics B Y F L R S TA F F

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hidden gem on Regina’s Warehouse District Dewdney Avenue strip, Radio Centre is Regina’s oldest independent electronics retailer and a business on the cutting edge of electronics for you and your home.

Specializing in top-of-the-line consumer electronics—flat-panel televisions, home theatre systems, “smart house” installations and more—Radio Centre has everything you could possibly need to create the perfect viewing and listening experience at home.

The store is full of Panasonic plasma and LCD TVs, Sharp LCD TVs, Onkyo home theatre receivers and Polk Audio speakers, plus cameras, camcorders, accessories for everything and more.

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More than 60 years of service Radio Centre first opened in 1948. It was originally located at 11th Avenue and Lorne Street.

“It opened before there was television, which is why it’s called Radio Centre,” says co-owner Tim Parsons. “We’ve kept the name to remember our roots, but we’re focused on being a leader in delivering the best and freshest technology the home electronics industry has to offer.”

While the technology Radio Centre specializes in is always evolving, its reputation for stellar service hasn’t changed over the last 61 years. Parsons and co-owner Rene Fahlman, along with team members Joe Hadesbeck, Kris Hadesbeck and fine lifestyles regina

Phil Johnson, are focused on matching their high standard of electronics knowledge with an equally high standard of customer service.

It’s not just about selling, servicing and installing great electronics, say the team members at Radio Centre; it’s about setting each customer up with the perfect system for his or her lifestyle.

Custom wiring for new homes In the building stages of a new home, customers are encouraged to bring their floor plans in for a consultation. Radio Centre can custom-wire the whole home, so there will never be a mess of wires behind the television, stereo or home theatre system.

Multi-zone audio systems can put your music in whatever room you’re in—from an iPod, radio, satellite or cable box— and keep your kids’ music playing in their space at the same time.

In-wall touch pads installed in any room or the newest generation of remote controls are used to change the source and volume, and can also be set up to control your lights, home theatre, blinds and more.

Sleek solutions Radio Centre also has some sleek solutions for people who haven’t pre-wired but want the clean look. A wireless 54inch Panasonic plasma that’s less than an inch deep is in the store now—and just the beginning of emerging technologies in wireless and lightweight home theatre, according to Parsons.

Attending the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas the past two seasons has proven to Radio Centre’s team that thin is in.

“Plasmas are getting to be under that oneinch depth,” says Parsons. “It gives it a real low-profile look when it’s hanging on your Spring 2010

wall.” He adds that wireless technology also means that Blu-ray players, receivers and other boxes can stay out of sight for the cleanest look, in the event that you didn’t have an opportunity to pre-wire.

Radio Centre is also a specialist in making electronics user-friendly, selling and setting up universal remotes on a variety of budgets that run the whole system—new or existing—with singletouch commands.

PHOT OGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T E N BE RG

“Custom smart-home technology and pre-wiring is future-proof,” says Parsons.

“We can make your home work for you today and make it wired-ready to learn new tricks as technology advances.”

“You shouldn’t be on your own” To help deliver the best service and keep it simple for customers, Radio Centre is also a licensed warranty depot for everything it sells. House calls and a service centre right in the store mean fast service, which sets Radio Centre apart from the big-box store electronics dealers.

“You shouldn’t be on your own to figure it out if your home electronics don’t work the way you want them to,” says Fahlman, who adds that services range from proper set-up to repairs, if you ever need them.

“If you buy something at a big-box store you may have 30 days for returns or warranty. After the first 30 days, you’re on your own,” says Parsons. “When you buy from Radio Centre, we’re looking after you for the life of your electronics.” flr 2100A Dewdney Ave. Regina, SK Phone (306) 352-3030 www.radiocentre.ca 77

We can make your home work for you today and make it wired-ready to learn new tricks as technology advances.

finelifestylesregina | homes and real estate

One-stop browsing for Saskatchewan rental accommodations at skforrent.ca

BY G.H. LEWMER

I

f Canada is renowned for its friendliness, then Saskatchewan is renowned for its opportunity. That’s what Shaheen Zareh’s parents felt 20 years ago when they relocated Shaheen and his brother and two sisters to Saskatchewan, so they all could have a better life and more opportunity than their Iranian homeland offered them.

Twenty years later Shaheen is a successful and admired entrepreneur, owner and creator of the Zarkor Corporation, a company specializing in construction and real-estate investments throughout Saskatchewan. As a respected businessman, Shaheen knows the importance of good business, and how important it is to give back to the province that has been so generous to him and his family.

That’s how www.skforrent.ca was born: from an obligation Shaheen felt to help people here in Saskatchewan, making their lives easier by offering a free online service for individuals who are looking to either offer or find rental accommodations.

A bolt from the blue “I first got the idea just driving in my car one day—it suddenly came to me,” recalls Shaheen. “How do people find, or list properties for rent here in Saskatchewan? As soon as I arrived back at the office I went onto the Internet and discovered that there was no one-stop easySpring 2010

to-navigate website that addressed the needs of both the owner and renter when they’re ready to rent. I realized then and there that this was an important service that people here needed.

“Looking for a house, or renting out a property, can be an overwhelming experience if you’ve never done it before.

Having first-hand experience in the realestate field, I know what works and what 78

doesn’t work. I think we’ve designed a website that makes it easy to understand and navigate for the user. It allows them the opportunity to save an enormous amount of time looking for a place by having comprehensive listings and photographs all on one site.”

Shaheen is especially excited about the international potential of skforrent.ca.

“Being that the Web is world-wide, it’s a fine lifestyles regina

great resource for people who are about to move to Saskatchewan or those who are planning a vacation and just looking for a cabin or house to rent for their stay here. For the owner, it also opens up their listing to the entire world and encourages people to come visit this beautiful province.”

Not just accommodations As work started on preparing skforrent.ca, the original idea of creating a service for renters and owners of property soon blossomed and expanded to include additional categories. As Shaheen explains, “Since so many people rent so many different things, why limit yourself just to property? So we’ve also included listings for tools, boats, and RVs, and we’re open to suggestions to include other items. Our first priority is accommodations, but we want skforrent.ca to be an inclusionary service where the user is an active participant and contributor to the content.”

When you first visit the website, you’re immediately drawn to the category column on the left-hand side of the screen. There you will find all the different rental categories that skforrent.ca offers. From the expected listings (House/Condo/Apartment/ Cabin/ Commercial) to the unexpected listings (Tools/Boats/Campground/Bed and Breakfast), the amount of choice and diversity that the website offers is quite remarkable.

There are six different categories (or headings) which explains in detail how simple, quick and effective skforrent.ca is for whatever use you require.

As Shaheen notes, “We designed and chose these categories (or headings) because they best complemented the simple step-by-step process that everyone goes through when they log-on to the website for the first time. The first heading (How It Works) tells you everything you need to know about how the site works. The second heading (Register) gets the user up and running onto the

site. The third heading (Search) allows the user to define what he or she wants to search for. The fourth heading (Rent it) allows the user to browse through the listings on the site. The fifth and sixth headings (My Account & Log In/Out) are accessed each time you visit the site.

By designing it this way we know that once you’ve used the website, you’ll know everything you need to know each time you return. We didn’t want it to become too complicated or convoluted like other websites.”

How it works Here’s how the website works. The first step if you are an Owner looking for a Renter is to go to the registration tab and fill out the registration form. Once the registration form is completed, choose a password and browse through the registration agreement. Now you’re ready and able to add your property to the listings.

The second step if you are an Owner is to

enter your information and upload your photos for your listing, be it a luxury home, a condo, an apartment, a house, a cabin or any other property that you may want to list. You can repeat this process for as many separate listings in as many categories as you like. If you need to view or update information in your listing, click on the links inside the My Account box. With just a few clicks you can view your active listing, access or update your account details, or print signs and flyers for your listing.

If you are an already registered Owner, click the sign-in tab at the top of the page. Once you enter your login details, username and password, you can then begin to add new listings, search other rental properties, or check messages from other www.skforrent.ca users.

If you’re a Renter looking for a rental property, it’s just as easy to navigate and use the website. All you have to do is click the search tab at the top of the page, fill out the fields you’re searching for, and then se-

lect from the categories on the category table. You’re now ready to browse listings, compare prices, and find that rental property that you’ve been looking for.

Once you’ve mastered the simplicity of skforrent.ca, you now have plenty of quality time to browse through the listings without having to go through the complicated and time-consuming process of searching through newspapers and numerous websites or driving around looking for addresses. Everything you need is now in front of you!

A celebratory give-away As Shaheen and his team were putting the final touches to the website, they wanted to celebrate its creation by finding a way to make the people who listed on or used the site part of the celebration.

“We all came up with the idea of having a contest to get people excited about being involved with the idea—something

unusual that’s a bit off the beaten track,” notes Shaheen. “So if you’re one of the first 500 people who sign on to skforrent.ca, your name will be placed into a draw for one of three iPod Touches and one PS3. It’s free to join, so you’re chances of winning are pretty good.”

As we shook hands after our meeting, Shaheen mentioned one last thing. “I think Saskatchewan is the greatest place to live in the world, and now there’s a website to help all those people who want to either live in or visit this province. As my parents were able to fulfill their dreams for their children by coming to Saskatchewan, in some way I hope that this website can help those individuals who are making the same sacrifice for their families.”

Spoken like a true Saskatchewanian. flr www.skforrent.ca

1345 Albert Street, Regina, Saskatchewan

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Tel: 306.347.2700

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www.bullfrogspas.com

fine lifestyles regina

Urban Landscapes It’s almost spring, the season when a homeowners’ heart turns to thoughts of...landscaping. The businesses and professionals on the following pages offer some of the finest landscaping products and services available. Give them a call. You know you want to.

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urban landscapes

Heather Lowe: Landscape Design

BY CAROL TODD

W

hether March comes in like a lion or a lamb, April heralds the start of spring on the prairies. It’s the perfect time for homeowners to take a cue from all the little living things emerging from their burrows and rouse their creative processes from their winter sleep to start planning for the summer.

Sitting down with the family over seed catalogues, yard and garden magazines or other publications filled with the promise of sunshine can be a warm escape on a cold day. But there’s more involved in landscaping than you might think, says Heather Lowe of Heather Lowe: Landscape Design. “They’ll open up a magazine and see the pretty pictures and go, ‘Oh, that’s what I want,’ without realizing that you can’t always have that without a whole lot of work,” she says.

It’s not just a matter of deciding where to put the lawn. Planning an attractive yard means considering numerous elements ranging from, yes, the grassed areas, to play structures for the children, to patios and entertainment areas, water features and, of course, the myriad plants available. Long-time gardeners and others may take it all in stride, but for most of us, the assistance of a professional landscape designer can spell the difference between a pleasant summer and a nightmare.

LANDSCAPED BY STONES EDGE LANDSCAPING INC.

A green thumb for 30 years Lowe has had her green thumb in Saskatchewan gumbo for 30 years, working at Regina’s Lakeview Gardens, now Dutch Growers, for much of that time.

She started her own landscape-design business from her farm home near Zehner six years ago and business has been blooming—er, booming—ever since. “I’m just astonished by the amount of work that’s out there,” she says. And it isn’t all new homes that demand her attention: she estimates that roughly half her work is for people who are redoing their yards, either for their own enjoyment or in preparation for sale (because a professionally designed landscape can add to the value of the property).

Designers like Lowe will not only draft out the hardscape features of your yard, like fences and patio stones, but will also design flower beds, and suggest the trees, shrubs and smaller plants, both perennial

and annual, to plant. She takes into account the climatic requirements of the plants to ensure they will grow and thrive, and also considers bloom times to give you a yard full of continual colour.

And the benefits extend to the homeowners’ wallet, as having a professional design not only results in a more attractive yard, but can save money by avoiding expensive mistakes or last-minute changes once the contractor is on site.

Lowe suggests that now is the best time to start thinking about landscaping for the summer months. She likes to sit down with clients as early as possible for a number of reasons; most importantly so the homeowner can finalize a design and book one of the busy landscape contractors in time for summer. Lowe works with a number of different contractors, fitting their areas of expertise to the client’s needs.

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urban landscapes Regardless of the level of preparation, Lowe will work with the client to develop the rest of the plan. “I really like to listen to what the homeowner has to say—it doesn’t matter whether they’ve lived there for 30 years or if they haven’t even moved in yet,” she says. Among the topics she’ll cover in her initial meeting with the client are how long the client has lived at that location, how they plan to use the yard, if they have any experience gardening, and whether there are children in the family. “I’m really interested in what they have to say about themselves and about their yard, and about what they want to do with it,” Lowe says.

“I really like to listen to what the homeowner has to say—it doesn’t matter whether they’ve lived there for 30 years or if they haven’t even moved in yet.”

Helping homeowners plan While most people have some concept of what they want their yard to look like, Lowe says others haven’t the slightest idea.

“Sometimes people know what they want—they have seen a tree or shrub they Spring 2010

like, for example. Sometimes they’ll say, ‘I haven’t a clue, that’s why I hired you,’” she says. All the homeowner really needs is a surveyor’s certificate, though homes in older areas of Regina, for example, may not have one available.

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Pick up any gardening or home décor magazine—even the Canadian Tire catalogue!—and the most common element of the yards you’ll see is the outdoor room, where family and friends can gather in comfortable seating with most, if not all, of the amenities of indoor living. Lowe says many people are interested in that trend in outdoor design. ”Most often, I’m finding that people are focusing on their yard as an outdoor entertaining area, and it really doesn’t matter if they have young children or are empty-nesters,” she says.

But they aren’t necessarily looking to add a deck; the trend is to ground-level patios. “They want to be down on the ground level to maximize privacy and for wind protection. And, if they happen to be a young family with children, the play area tends to be green space,” Lowe says.

Fire pits are a hot commodity for many homeowners, but vegetable gardens are not usually on the agenda. Lowe says that young people especially are rarely interested in a garden—they just want a yard that looks nice. And that’s where Lowe can help, suggesting ways to clean up and brighten up even the smallest of yards.

Our shorter growing season limits the kinds of plants we can enjoy, but developments in recent years have expanded the list, and there is now a wide selection of plants of every size and colour imaginable available for our area. fine lifestyles regina

A colourful yard from spring to fall When choosing plants, whether they be trees, shrubs, or annual or perennial flowers, there are, again, numerous factors to consider. “I need to coordinate the colours with the hard features, like existing decks and fencing, for example,” Lowe says. In addition to the homeowner’s preference in colour scheme, plants need to be chosen for their possibility of survival, as well as for their blooming times, to ensure the yard is filled with colour from spring to fall.

Homeowners can also choose plants to attract bees, butterflies or even hummingbirds, that will all contribute to the health of the garden plants and provide hours of watching delight, especially for children.

There’s also the amount of available light to consider. A yard in, say, Regina’s Lakeview area is to be shaded by the numerous trees. The light that reaches the plants can also be affected by the orientation of the house, the height of any fencing and a number of other factors.

While there are many different plants available that thrive in shade, most of the really colourful flowers need full sun. The full-grown size of the plant also has to be factored in, says Lowe. “I try to put an appropriate size plant in the appropriate size area so that, in three years time, it’s stayed within the spot. Part of what they’re hiring me for is to tell them where to put what plant.”

While the trend in outdoor landscaping is toward outdoor rooms and fire pits, and away from vegetable gardens, many homeowners continue to be interested in the wide variety of water features that are available, especially those that don’t require a lot of work. “People want something with a switch that they can turn off, like a bubbling rock, for example,” says Lowe. “Cost doesn’t seem to matter, they want low maintenance.” She doesn’t get a lot of requests for ponds, with their requirements for cleaning, cover plants and/or fish. “Pond people often seem to be the ones who are quite into gardenSpring 2010

ing,” Lowe says, and therefore able and willing to install and care for the pond themselves.

But, for the rest of us, there’s Heather Lowe: Landscape Design to guide us through the garden maze of the available options. Whether you’re planning a whole new yard to go with a new future, or rejuvenating your existing property into 87

your dream space, Lowe suggests calling soon. Spring may not yet have sprung here on the prairies, but she’s already hard at work, planning super summers. flr Heather Lowe Landscape Design (306) 545-1519 General Delivery, Zehner, SK

fine lifestyles regina

urban landscapes

Stones Edge Landscaping Expertise and experience to meet any gardening or landscaping need

BY TRILBY KNUTSON

W

hether its customers are seeking a backyard escape where they can relax, a luscious green space where their kids can play and explore, or a modern outdoor oasis where they can entertain friends, Stones Edge Landscaping has the expertise and experience to provide homeowners with the perfect garden and landscaping solution to meet their needs.

“I pride myself in what I do,” says Neil Hudye, owner of the Regina-based landscaping business. Self-described as a former farm kid, Hudye’s hardworking nature and personal values are evident throughout every aspect of his business, from his attention to quality and detail to the respect he shows for his customers. It’s not surprising that Stones Edge Landscaping has established a strong reputation in the Regina area as one of the best landscape construction and renovation companies in the industry.

Hudye started Stones Edge Landscaping more than 10 years ago, initially providing snow-removal and lawn-maintenance services. “I started off small and progressively grew,” he says. “Before I knew it, I was doing everything.”

The company slowly moved away from the grounds maintenance side of the business to focus solely on serving customers’ landscape construction needs.

Today, its wide range of services includes installing outdoor lighting and water features, constructing paving-stone and slate walkways and patios, building retaining Spring 2010

walls, landscape carpentry, laying sod, planting trees and shrubbery, and much more.

Stones Edge Landscaping is committed to providing customers with the finest materials and workmanship available.

The company places as much focus as possible on learning about new landscaping techniques and product so that it can offer its customers the best and most innovative options. The materials used are purchased from reputable companies, such as Regina’s own D&J Paving Stones Plus Ltd., which have a proven 89

history of providing quality products and good customer service.

Hudye works with a team of professionals, and knows which companies to recommend for special projects such as landscape design or deck construction.

Stones Edge Landscaping works frequently with one of Regina’s leading custom landscape designers, Heather Lowe.

Hudye and Lowe have combined their efforts on many projects, transforming the homeowner’s landscape dreams from a blank slate to a perfect reality.

Although the projects Stones Edge Landfine lifestyles regina

urban landscapes provide safe passage around their property. Lights are used to highlight pathways, as well as potential hazards such as steps, water features or even outdoor pools. Lighting is also commonly used to illuminate areas that are usually used during the evening, such as patios.

Of course, one of the most popular uses for landscape lighting is to draw attention to key features of the yard and enhance the home’s aesthetic beauty. “Many people use lighting to accent their yard and bring it to life,” Hudye says.

Stones Edge Landscaping employs a variety of different techniques to give homeowners the specific lighting effect they are seeking, whether this means installing a light 40 feet up in a tree to give the appearance of moonlight, or softly highlighting shrubs and other visual points of interest.

scaping works on are varied, every customer is treated equally. In fact, Hudye makes a point of letting his clients know that once the company begins a project, that project remains the company’s main priority until it has been completed to the customer’s satisfaction.

Hudye also places a great deal of importance on listening closely to his clients to determine their landscape needs. “I make sure my clients are comfortable with the work we are doing and I make sure they get exactly what they want,” he says.

ply illuminating a homeowner’s property.

In fact, with the right products, landscape lighting can serve a number of both practical and aesthetic purposes.

Stones Edge Landscaping carries the line of durable, reliable and high-performing landscape lighting products made by Cast Lighting. In fact, Hudye says it was Cast Lighting’s outstanding quality and excellent service that prompted him to add outdoor lighting installation to the company’s service repertoire.

Landscape lighting

Hudye says the most practical reasons to include lighting in a landscape design are to provide safety and security. A well-lit home is a great deterrent for intruders, but this doesn’t mean homeowners need to shine harsh spotlights on key areas of the property in order to keep trespassers at bay. Hudye says low levels of strategically placed illumination work just as well, while giving the home stunning visual appeal.

When it’s done properly, outdoor lighting accomplishes much more than sim-

Many homeowners opt to incorporate lighting into their landscape designs, to

For Hudye, Stones Edge Landscaping is more than just a business venture. It’s an opportunity to do what he excels at and what he enjoys most. “I love being outdoors, I love being creative, and I love meeting the clients,” he says. “Basically, I love my job.”

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Once homeowners have decided upon a lighting plan, Hudye provides them with an estimate of how much it will cost them to operate the lights for a year, depending on the number and type of lights they install and the length of time they operate each day. He says many customers are surprised at how low the cost can be.

Patios “A lot of people are turning their yards into an outdoor living space,” says Hudye. “They think of it as another room to their house.” One of the biggest ways homeowners are transforming their yards into more usable space is by installing paving stone or slate patios.

Before Stones Edge begins a new patio project, Hudye meets with the homeowners to discuss their vision for the space: do they see themselves sitting outside at a bistro table relaxing with a morning coffee, or do they picture the area as a place to host guests, complete with an outdoor kitchen and fire pit?

Knowing how the patio will be used is the first step in figuring out how large it will need to be and how it will be included into their yard space. fine lifestyles regina

Once the size of the patio is determined, Hudye works with homeowners to help them choose a design for the space. This includes going over the pros and cons of the numerous patio products available and making sure that homeowners have the information they need to make an informed decision, no matter what they choose.

Hudye says patio design and colour choices are entirely a matter of personal preference, and depend largely on the effect the homeowners want to create and the current look of their home. Some opt to include designs such as circles and curves, while others prefer a clean, straight-edged look.

Although there are numerous products to choose from, Hudye expects the Roman series paving stones will return as a popular choice this season. The Roman series products, developed by Barkman Concrete, feature four different-sized bricks that can be placed together to create a unique pattern. “It was popular last year and I imagine it’s going to be popular again this year,” Hudye says.

The patios and walkways that Stones Edge Landscaping installs are virtually maintenance-free, in part due to the rubberized sand the company uses to fill the spaces between the patio stones. Hudye says the product is superior to regular sand filler because it seals up the space, preventing water, weeds or even insects from penetrating through. Once the rubberized sand is in place, the homeowner can wash his patio without worrying about washing the sand away and having to refill the cracks.

Water features, retaining walls and plants Incorporating unique elements such as water features, retaining walls and plants into a landscape design helps to give the home a finished look, says Hudye. Stones Edge Landscaping is experienced in each of the above areas, as well as several other distinct landscaping techniques.

Water features can be a very enjoyable addition to a homeowner’s yard, with several Spring 2010

options available to suit different lifestyles.

“If you’re somebody who loves the outdoors and wants to be in your backyard at all times, then a water pond with a waterfall is a very nice feature,” he says.

However, for others who enjoy the relaxing sound of a waterfall but don’t want the maintenance that a pond requires, a pondless water feature may be a better option. Hudye says pondless water features consist of one or several rocks placed above an underground pit. “The water bubbles up through the rock and then it goes back into the pit, so there is no freestanding water around,” he says.

Pondless water features also require less maintenance. If the homeowners want to leave for a weekend, they can simply unplug the feature without worrying about the build-up of algae. Plus, all homeowners need to do to prepare the water feature for winter is remove the pump.

Retaining walls are another popular accent for landscaping projects, and are often incorporated into a landscape design to add layers and draw attention to the natural beauty of shrubs, flowers and other plant life. As with patio areas and water features, retaining walls can be constructed from a wide variety of products, each of which suit a distinct style.

For example, some homeowners prefer curved walls featuring smooth, evenly stacked bricks, while others appreciate the rugged appeal of outcropping, where stone is stacked seemingly haphazardly to give the wall a natural look. Stones Edge Landscaping is able to work with all products to help homeowners achieve their desired look.

Stones Edge Landscaping is also skilled at installing sod, planting trees and shrubs, and xeriscaping, a low-maintenance style of landscaping that reduces the need for irrigation or watering by only using plants appropriate to the area’s natural environment.

Hudye says now is a great time for homeowners to start thinking about the landscaping projects they want to tackle this year, and contacting Stones Edge Landscaping is a great place to start. With its 91

quality workmanship and professional service, Stones Edge Landscaping is a name customers can depend on.

Call Neil Hudye at Stones Edge Landscaping today and get one step closer to enjoying the best that outdoor living has to offer. flr Stones Edge Landscaping Inc. (306) 596-5554 nhudye@accesscomm.ca www.stonesedgelandscaping.com fine lifestyles regina

Be inspired

WPInside!

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: 254 University Park Drive, Regina, S4V 1A3, 586.2929 #5, 4621 Rae Street, Regina, S4S 6K6, 584.1565 email: info@wpinside.com • www.wpinside.com

urban landscapes

Sunset Bay Hot Tubs: Getting soaked never felt so good B Y C A R T E R H AY D U

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rom the Ancient Roman baths to Japan’s historic hot springs, great civilizations seem to understand the pleasures and luxury of a good soak.

However, one doesn’t need a time machine or international plane ticket to enjoy this ancient, relaxing and cleansing pastime.

Mike Patterson, owner of Sunset Bay Hot Tubs Ltd. in Regina, has completely submerged himself (so to speak) in the hot-tub business. Quite simply, he says it feels good knowing the satisfaction his products bring customers.

“A very enjoyable product” “Aside from being very therapeutic, it’s a very enjoyable product,” Patterson says, adding that hot tubs are great for socializing with family, friends and neighbours.

Getting his feet wet in Saskatoon’s hottub industry, Patterson moved to his Regina store about 12 years ago. Located at 1333 Albert St., Sunset Bay was originally one of four independent western Canadian dealers selling Blue Falls spa products, which are manufactured in Thorsby, Alta.

Now called Blue Falls Manufacturing/Arctic Spas, the parent company has more than 250 dealers in 30 countries.

“So it’s quite a success story,” Patterson says, adding his particular store has sold products to a seemingly countless number of appreciative prune-fingered customers across southern Saskatchewan.

A year-round delight Although Arctic Spas hot tubs have reached a worldwide market, Patterson says key to the product line’s success is its Alberta manufacturing location, which builds an outdoor hot tub capable of extensive use all year round, even in the long and frigid prairie winters.

“It’s the heat-lock feature that separates us from other manufacturers,” Patterson says, noting that his hot tubs are insulated similar to a well-built North American home, with the floors and walls of Spring 2010

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the structure thoroughly protected to keep extreme weather outside. The tub and plumbing are both safely cocooned and a fiberglass shell transfers heat to and from the equipment bay.

Patterson says the extra-thick hot-tub cover acts like the attic in a house, creating a warm protective air space when the tub isn’t occupied.

The result of all this sturdy westernCanadian design, according to Patterson, is one of the most energy-efficient hottub products on the market, enabling users to enjoy a particularly revitalizing, yet meditative and relaxing, wintertime treat (without extensive expense).

Over the years, Patterson says, customers have slowly come to realize the absolute thrill of the outdoor winter hot-tub experience. “The heat, the fresh air—it’s hard to describe. ‘Invigorating’ might be the word.”

According to Patterson, originally 75 percent of his sales were for indoor tubs, but now about 99 percent of his sales are for outdoor products.

Most sales in spring Although his products can be installed all year round, Patterson says Sunset Bay typically starts selling outdoor hot tubs near the end of March, around the same

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time homeowners begin thinking about outdoor landscaping projects for the spring and summer ahead.

It takes about four to five weeks from the time a customer orders a hot tub to the time Patterson’s staff installs it at the person’s property. He suggests those planning to purchase an outdoor tub place an order as soon as possible, so as to ensure they get the most use of the product throughout the year.

Hot tubs come in a range of styles and colours, and Patterson says he sells products as diverse as the customers’ needs. For example, there are tubs to accommodate small and large groups of people, models allowing users to lounge, hot tubs with built-in stereos and wireless TV sets, and a range of pump and jet options to satisfy every customer expectation.

“When you’re in the store looking at hot tubs, we try to steer you to the one that best meets your needs,” Patterson says.

Popular with growing families While all age groups enjoy hot tubs, Patterson says the fastest-growing customer demographic at his store is people between the ages of 30 and 45, who own homes to accommodate the products and often have young families to enjoy them.

He says people who purchase hot tubs are often the same people who might 95

purchase boats or RVs. However, Patterson believes his product has a unique edge on the competition, simply because a hot tub is a luxury item an individual or family can enjoy 365 days of the year.

“It’s nice to have your fifth wheeler, but how many days of the year are you going to use it?”

The fact hot tubs lend themselves to social interaction also bodes well for Sunset Bay: Patterson says a lot of his customers decide to purchase hot tubs because they had the chance to enjoy a friend’s tub at some point.

Aside from hot tubs, Sunset Bay sells other products such as gazebos, steam showers and saunas.

For Patterson’s longtime dedication to selling quality hot-tub products, on January 27 Sunset Bay received the coveted Spasearch 2010 Certified Retail Store award, the only independent retail endorsement in the hot-tub industry. Hottub retailers demonstrating excellence in everything from employee training to consumer satisfaction receive the award based on an independent third-party decision. flr Sunset Bay Hot Tubs Tel: 525-0546 mike@sasktel.net www.sunsetbayleisure.com.

fine lifestyles regina

urban landscapes

Ellis Pools Helping you build paradise in your own backyard B Y L E E PA R E N T

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ot everyone can look out over an ordinary yard or an empty lot and envision a recreational haven for a family, but after more than 30 years in the swimming pool business, Mark Ellis can do just that. When he incorporated Ellis Pools in 2006, the name quickly became synonymous with oneof-a-kind pools surrounded by features custom-designed for each individual client.

Ellis was first attracted to the outdoor work involved in building pools, but he soon developed a sense of accomplishment as projects were completed. “It was,

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and still is, enjoyable to witness the anticipation leading up to the start of the pool installation,” he says, “followed by the excitement the owner feels upon completion.” Ellis finds it very rewarding to generate that excitement; he and his team strive to achieve it with every pool project.

During the “pool season,” Ellis employs seven or eight people: two or three for the retail outlet at 1362 Scarth St. in Regina and the rest out in the field. As the season gets busier, that number may increase to keep up with the hectic schedule, because the company does 97

service and maintenance as well as construction.

Always curious about sources of inspiration, I asked Ellis where his comes from.

“Usually, when a person is thinking about a pool, I meet with them at their home,” he explains. “My first questions would be, how large is your family, and do you do much entertaining.”

Customized to suit The team tries to customize every pool to suit each customer’s needs. They have a tremendous variety of shapes and sizes

fine lifestyles regina

urban landscapes available, but that’s really just one aspect of the project. The first requirement is to obtain a surveyor’s certificate to ensure that the planned pool doesn’t encroach on an easement. Then yard access must be considered. To dig the pool there must be approximately seven feet of clearance between the pool and the house, a fence, or any other structure.

“We look at every site differently and adjust to the situation when we are digging the pool,” Ellis explains. “This gives us a good idea of the soil makeup in that particular area so we can make adjustments as needed.” The company currently does only in-ground pools, vinyl liner and concrete.

How long do these projects take? As with any type of home construction, one can estimate but not guarantee a timeframe, due to variables such as weather, but Ellis focuses on organization, especially when subtrades are involved with the finishing details, such as the pool apron and surrounding landscaping features like waterfalls or decorative walls.

Typically, a standard pool takes two weeks from start to finish, weather permitting. The Henry pool pictured here was not a standard pool project, however.

Being very involved, it took five or six weeks to complete, and involved several subtrades, necessitating the careful coordination and scheduling that Ellis mentioned. When they decided to add a pool to their Wascana View home, Brent and Wanda Henry interviewed two other installers, but as soon as they met Mark Ellis, they knew he was their best choice.

Creating a backyard paradise Having owned a cottage and tried camping in the past, the Henrys decided to “create paradise” in their own backyard instead, Mrs. Henry tells me. A busy couple with a young daughter, their leisure time is limited. “The cottage was more work than relaxation,” she explains. “I enjoy yard work but not at two places!”

With her husband working various shifts, escaping in a camper was difficult, too.

Now they step out their back door into Spring 2010

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their own private retreat, with no travel time necessary. Their newly developed yard also provides a fun gathering spot for their daughter and her friends.

“I’ve wanted a pool since I was 10,” Wanda tells me. “I convinced my father, but my mother put a stop to the idea; the neighbours in Lumsden, where I grew up, had a pool and we were welcome to use it, so she said we didn’t need our own.” Meanwhile, Brent was growing up in Prince Albert and spending summers at Waskesui; the clear water of a swimming pool reminds him of the clarity of those northern lakes.

As the photos reveal, the Henry pool is an elegant shape; this is known as an “Odyssey humpback kidney.” The project also included the installation of a power security cover which “picture-frames” the pool and also provides one of the safeguards necessary for a homeowner’s peace of mind. In every instance of pool planning, such concerns must be addressed: safety is paramount and there are always local bylaws and regulations to ensure it.

The Henrys offer two pieces of advice to homeowners planning the addition of a pool. “First, be patient,” Wanda says.

“No one can control the weather, and there will likely be delays. Second, use Ellis Pools to build it, because Mark Ellis is not satisfied until things are perfect.”

There was a complication with their pool cover and Ellis didn’t rest until the problem was solved.

“All his people were great, too,” she continues. “They started at 7 a.m. and worked hard all day, and two of them were obviously experienced enough to handle any complications that came along.” When one of the subtrades fell short of expectations, Ellis stepped in and took care of that problem; although some of the finishing details were delayed, the Henrys had their pool to enjoy on the August long weekend, just as they’d been promised.

Pools popular on the prairies Enduring one of our infamous Saskatchewan winters, a newcomer might wonder about the practicality of installing a Spring 2010

swimming pool, but surprisingly enough, Regina boasts a relatively high number of pools per capita. And does the owner of a pool construction company automatically have one in his own backyard? Not yet, Ellis says, because he only recently moved into the home. There is one in the works, he says, but “of course, you know the shoemaker’s daughter has no shoes.”

Another project in the works is a website which will offer consumers an opportunity to browse all the options that the company offers, including that tremendous variety of shapes and sizes that Ellis mentioned. He hopes to have that site up and running by 2011, but that timeline will depend somewhat on the upcoming season and how many projects come his way.

his personal residence, I sensed that “in the works” might indicate a fairly short timeline in this case. Ellis’s enjoyment of his work is obvious and he, of all people, can appreciate the ramifications of such an investment. Whatever size or shape a swimming pool might be, it can provide relaxation, beauty, entertainment options and opportunities for quality family time. Given so many good reasons to consider such a project, homeowners in and around Regina should have plenty of food for thought, especially when a company like Ellis Pools is available to convert dreams into reality. flr Ellis Pools (306) 525-7665 1362 Scarth St., Regina, SK

As for the swimming pool planned for 99

fine lifestyles regina

urban landscapes

Vinyl decks and fencing: the straight goods

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inyl decks and fencing are the trend of the future—they go up in a jiffy and need nothing more than a blast of pressure washing in the spring. With summer coming, the option to sit back and fully enjoy the season, rather than scraping and painting a fence, is tremendously appealing.

BY CAROL TODD

With the wide variety of easily installed Westech products now available at Glacier PVC Fencing, Decking and Railings, the possibility of an enjoyable fun-filled summer looms large. Vice-president and General Manager Jamie Halbgewachs points out that our summers are too short to waste precious time tending to a fence or deck. “People don’t have time.

Why scrape and paint your fence when you could be out on a golf course or at the lake?” he points out. Oh, and no splinters! Ever.

PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

Not only are the vinyl fences, railings and decking virtually maintenance-free, they are easy to install. And as if that weren’t enough, Halbgewachs says, they don’t bow or bend like a wood fence. “They stay straight. They don’t heave, or tilt or fall over.” They also withstand the effects of our sometimes harsh weather conditions, and aren’t susceptible to insect damage (not that we have a big termite problem in Saskatchewan).

If you’re in the market for a new fence, be sure to check out what Glacier Glass has to offer. It may be the last fence you’ll ever have to buy!

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Halbgewachs adds that repairs are easier as well. “You can look at some fences we did seven years ago and it looks like we installed them yesterday,” he says. Add to that the lifetime warranty for original owners, and these products will grace your home and yard for years and years.

The best of both worlds The specially engineered combination of wood-grain aesthetics and low-maintenance vinyl offers homeowners the best of both worlds: the look of painted wood without the constant re-painting and upkeep. The modular system is not only easy to install and repair, it is also extremely flexible in design, giving people numerous options to customize their fences, decks and railings to complement their house and yard. fine lifestyles regina

Available in five colours (almond, white, pebblestone, clay and stone), fence and deck railings also come in several different styles. There are six basic fence styles: privacy, open-picket, ornamental, semiprivacy, closed-picket, and ranch; all available in six-, eight- or 10-foot lengths. There are also different baluster choices for the decks, and numerous options for post caps for both. The non-slip vinyl decking doesn’t heat up like wood, and is available in two widths, six and 12 inches. It can be laid on top of existing deck base, or a new one can be built.

All in all, Halbgewachs says, there is no limit to the versatility of the system.

“Your imagination is your only limitation. We can bring your idea of the perfect fence into reality, to perfectly express your personality and add beauty and value to your home. And, when it’s done, all you have to do is enjoy it,” he says.

They even make little patio tables out of the scraps!

Halbgewachs says the installation process is fairly quick and won’t leave unsightly piles of dirt lying around your yard.

“There’s no hole-drilling to do. We just pound a galvanized steel post into the ground with an air post-pounder. No bobcat in your back yard and no cement work to do—the posts are just driven 4 1/2 feet into the ground. We can often take down an old fence and put up a new one in a day,” he says.

Durable and long-lasting The virgin co-extruded PVC vinyl systems are more expensive on a per-foot basis than wood, but Halbgewachs says it’s important to factor in the labour to build and maintain a cedar fence, for example. Halbgewachs says the durability and long life of the vinyl products mean those costs can be amortized over years, not just months. “We’ve seen cedar fences put up in the summer or fall and, by the next spring that fence looks like it’s 10 years old, the UV rays break down that stain,” he says.

That durability allows Glacier to offer the original purchaser a life-time warSpring 2010

urban landscapes

ranty, with a 50-year warranty for the next owner. “It’s a high end product that we’re carrying, so we can back it with lifetime warranties. It’s a little different from the Do It Yourself (DIY) composite and PVC decking that you can find at the lumber yards,” he says.

Not only are these fences, decks and railings easy to install, virtually maintenance-free and extremely flexible and attractive, they’re also good for the environment. There’s no need to use up our Spring 2010

precious wood resources and there aren’t any toxic additives to leach into the soil like there can be from paint, stain or older treated wood.

Linda Halbgewachs, it offers a comprehensive range of products and services, including 24-hour commercial emergency service and “while-you-wait” window and screen repairs, as well as auto glass and sealed units and PVC windows and doors.

Jamie Halbgewachs says offering PVC fences, decks and railings was a natural extension to the PVC window and door lines Glacier Glass has sold for years. He says they first started thinking about it five years ago, when some of their vinyl window suppliers told them about the vinyl fencing and decking product lines that they were coming out with. “So,” he says, “we started dabbling in it a bit, just because it looked successful to us.”

He’s confident the new products, and a new store to showcase them, will take Glacier straight into the future. The new Glacier PVC Fencing, Decking and Railings store is located just south of the current 410 Quebec St. location, at 418 Quebec St. “We’re pretty excited. They can come into the store and it’s just dedicated to that product,” says Halbgewachs.

The new store will be open this month, just in time for homeowners planning their summer projects. Halbgewachs invites them to come take a look, and suggests they make their decisions soon.

“We’re trying to get the estimates booked early,” he says. “As soon as the ground thaws, we can start pounding post and putting in fences. There is only a short window, pretty much from April until when the ground freezes, when we can install fences.”

If you’re in the market for a new fence, be sure to check out what Glacier Glass has to offer. It may be the last fence you’ll ever have to buy! flr

A natural extension to the business Glacier Glass is proud to be Regina’s largest independent glass shop, serving Regina and area for 30 years. Established in 1979 by Jamie’s parents, Peter and 102

Glacier Glass Service Ltd. 410 Quebec Street, Regina, SK (306) 545-3990 www.glacierglass.com

fine lifestyles regina

house, home and real estate

EXPERT ADVICE

MORTGAGES Quick Response Mortgages 585-2150 / 352-4616 hen the Canadian economy took a downturn in 2008, the Government of Canada introduced changes which saw credit requirements tightening. As we enter into the second quarter of 2010, further changes will be introduced amidst signals that economic recovery is on the horizon. The apparent concern is whether Canadians are able to withstand the higher interest rates that inevitably come with the inflationary period following economic recovery.

The Government of Canada recently announced changes, effective April 19, 2010, to its rules regarding government-backed mortgage insurance, despite claims of a strengthening economy, no clear evidence of a housing bubble and continued low mortgage arrears. The highlights of the changes are: • Borrowers will be required to qualify based

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on a five-year fixed bank rate regardless of the term selected; • A maximum of 90 percent of your home’s value will be available on a refinance; • A minimum down-payment of 20 per-cent will be required on non-owner-occupied properties.

Now is the time to examine your debt obligations.

Anyone who is tied to a variable rate product either through their mortgage or line of credit—the party is almost over. While traditionally over the last 10 years the variable rate has proved to be an overall lower cost, this was because traditionally you didn’t have fixed rates available to you as low as they happen to be right now. In fact, the fixed rates available to you now are lower than the average bank prime over the last 10 years.

If we examine bank prime rate history, today we

Skyline

are experiencing the lowest rate ever available.

Prior to that, there were blips brought on by the economy which saw a three-month period in 2002 and a five-month period in 2004 where bank prime was 3.75. Both those periods saw increases to the bank prime, which eventually hit 6.25. During the 1990s we experienced prime rates as high as 9.75. While we don’t have a crystal ball, what we do know is that the government isn’t making changes because they think the rates are going to stay low. When prime increases, with it will come an increase to the low fixed rates currently available. That is why it is crucial to act now.

Contact one of our experienced accredited mortgage professionals at either 585-2150 or 352-4616 to determine your best client-focused financial solution. flr

(306) 565.0797

home décor

1938 Dewdney Ave. Regina www.skylinehomedecor.com

Harmony Builders Ltd. Helping new homebuyers every step of the way PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

B Y F L R S TA F F

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hen you’re building a new home, you can use all the help you can get. There are a million decisions to be made, builders to deal with, interior design to consider.

Meanwhile, if you’re also selling your old home, you’re also making phone calls to realtors, accommodating strangers coming by to see the place, and considering offers—not to mention trying to pack up a whole houseful of furniture and other belongings for the move.

Every day, it seems, there are a million decisions to be made. Wouldn’t it be great if there were someone who could Spring 2010

remove some of the stress?

Well, there is: Harmony Builders Ltd., a new, locally based builder that is with you every step of the home-building way, from the day you sign the paperwork and say, “Let’s build this,” right up until the day you’re handed the keys to your new home.

Even though it has only existed for a few months, Harmony Builders has already sold many homes, news of its exemplary service spreading like wildfire via word of mouth. “We’re so lucky with referrals,” says Katrina Stettner, who operates the business. “We don’t even really need to advertise.”

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A unique level of personal service Harmony Builders contracts its construction work to Peace of Mind Contractors, under foreman Matt Rogina. Together, the two companies offer a level of personal service unique, not only in Regina, but in the entire province.

“There are clients that I have built for that I still spend time with,” Katrina says.

“I end up being friends with most of my clients afterward because you’re with them through such an important decision in life. You end up creating a bond between each other.”

Katrina calls helping people build their dream homes the “passion of her life,” one she discovered at the end of 2004.

For six years she worked as a new-home consultant for one of the biggest homebuilders in Regina. There she became familiar with all aspects of the business, from building codes to licensing to décor.

Then she went one step further, earning her re-sale license, allowing her to not fine lifestyles regina

only help her clients build their new home but sell their old one, eliminating the need to find a realtor and making the coordination of selling, buying, building and moving much easier.

Making things easier for her clients is Katrina’s primary goal, and to that end Harmony Builders has now added two new sales agents, the husband-and-wife team of Angela and Harry Shepherd, to help guide clients through the building process.

What does a Harmony Builders house look like? You can find out for yourself by visiting the company’s show home, now open at 3453 Valley Green Way in Greens on Gardiner. At almost 1,800 square feet, the bungalow features three bedrooms on the main floor and another three in the basement. The main floor’s stunning flooring, a mix of tile and eight-inch-wide hand-scraped hickory hardwood, perfectly complements the spacious 10-foot ceiling.

“It’s basically like an old house, built new,” says Katrina. “It has a very old, craftsman feel to it. All of the headers, trim and sills in the house are handmade.

It’s very much a character home, nothing Spring 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

Show home open

like what else is out there. It is perfect for people who want the look and character of an old home with all the modern conveniences and without spending the time, money and headaches on renovations.”

PHOT OGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

For those looking for something smaller than 1,800 square feet, Harmony has a modified 1,300-square-foot version of the same house. “In any price range, we can make it work for people,” Katrina says.

Katrina Stettner Sales Manager & Realtor 591-0631

Matt Rogina Construction Manager 596-5764

Nor are buyers locked into the standard elements of the house. Harmony Builders will gladly change the design to suit the buyer. “If they want to make a change, we will meet them out at the house and we’ll make the change for them,” Katrina says.

“We want people to be happy in the end and to say that we bent over backwards for them, because they are spending a lot of money on this investment.

“If somebody really wants something, you have to go that extra mile and give it to them. You want to do everything you can to make them happy and be satisfied with the product.”

Angela Sheppard New Home Specialist 530-8035

Harry Sheppard New Home Specialist 530-8035

Going the extra mile for its clients is at the core of Harmony Builders’ philosophy. It’s why so many people have already turned to the company for their new homes— and why they’re telling their friends.

For more about Harmony Builders Ltd, visit the show home at 3453 Valley Green Way or the website at www.harmonybuilders.ca, or call Katrina at 591-0631.

“We believe that every transaction should result in a satisfied, content and harmonious experience and lasting friendships with our clients.” fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | homes and real estate

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If you’re a creative dreamer, a visionary dreamer, a big dreamer, or even a downto-earth dreamer, then Lindal Cedar Homes has a dream for you. And once you have your first dream of an old-world post-and-beam home, there is no going back. The people at Lindal Cedar Homes in Saskatoon—the number-one dealer in Canada—understand this dream, and they know how to make it come true.

Picture this: it’s dusk, and you’re canoeing on the lake. As you paddle toward shore, your Lindal Home’s wrap-around windows glow with golden warmth through aspen and birch trees. The cathedral ceilings—made to last with posts and beams—free your mind. You stop paddling and linger on the lake, resting your eyes on your dream home.

Or how about this? You work in the city, downtown. You love your job, but you dream of a home where you can escape.

So you save and plan until your wishes become reality, and build a Lindal Cedar Home, fireplace and all. Ahhh. Driving through rush hour, people wonder why you’re smiling. It won’t be long, now, you’re thinking. I’m almost home.

One homeowner’s dream come true The dream came true for Lumsden homeowner Tara Rogers, who loves her home’s open floor plan, master-bedroom loft, high ceilings, exposed wood, and “all the natural light that comes through the many windows.”

Tara has the only Lindal home in her neighbourhood; people often drive by, slow down, and even stop to take pictures.

Tara says, “The first words that come out of everyone’s mouth when they visit for the first time is ‘Wow. This is gorgeous!’”

Tara found Lindal Cedar Homes on the Internet, but when she heard they would Spring 2010

PHOT OGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

reams. Some people dream of cars. Some people dream of Hawaii. Others want a flat-screen TV; others, a pony. But there is one dream that is universal. We even have a name for it: we call it “The Dream Home.”

Lindal Cedar Homes Where dreams come true every day

BY SHEENA KOOPS be at the Home and Garden Show in Regina, she went and checked them out, meeting with a company representative the following day. “He showed us some beautiful pictures and a floor plan I fell in love with,” Tara says. “When we left that day we knew it was right. It was the exact style of house we were looking for.”

Then the fun began: the building of their home. Tara laughs, recalling the emails and phone calls she left for Douglas Pocha, the president of the Independent Lindal Cedar Homes Dealership in Saskatoon. She says, “That poor man, logging into his computer every morning, knowing half of his messages were from me! He always went out of his way to help me find what I needed or point me in the right direction.”

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It’s with good reason that people come to Doug with their dreams, Tara says. “He’s a wonderful person.”

Doug works from morning until night to make people’s dreams become reality. He says, “I love to help families into the home of their dreams just as our 91-year-old founder used to do! I feel that a home is where values and security begin and grow.”

Always ready to serve Doug and his staff are always ready to serve. Doug says, “Have you ever left a message and they never seem to get back to you? We offer the opposite.” And his team is ready to take your phone call, answer your email, or have you visit their Saskatoon office. In no time, they’ll be helping you design an original Lindal fine lifestyles regina

Seattle, Wash., started the business in Toronto in 1945. In the company’s 65 years, Lindal Cedar Homes has seen almost 50,000 homes built, as well as 21 patents established.

Doug is not only the trusted face of Lindal in Saskatchewan, but Canada-wide as well, having retained the title of Canada’s Top Lindal Dealer for the last few years.

He even placed fourth in the world once, just behind Moscow, Tokyo, and the United States. After working closely with Doug on her home, Tara Rogers says, “If I ever build another home, it will be a Lindal. I absolutely love it, my family loves it, my friends love it; I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Sir Lindal, who was titled “sir” as a young man, was featured in Popular Mechanics in 1966, when the magazine only cost 35 cents. He has always been a force of nature, and today he swims and hikes and continues to show up at his family-run office and at the yearly gatherings. That’s staying power!

Doug treats you like family because he’s part of a family-owned and operated business, boasting independent dealers worldwide. Sir Walter Lindal, who was born right here in Saskatchewan and now lives near the company’s head office, in Spring 2010

Staying power Lindal homes, like their founder, have staying power, too, with lifetime structural warranty and company longevity.

Doug says, “After the world financial crises, many of our competitors have fallen. We are proud to say that we are still standing and growing, offering new and exciting product lines like the Lin110

dal Turkel, coming soon to the Regina area.” And Lindal dreams that the planet will be around a long time, too, using the latest in green building technology.

Dreams. Some people have little dreams, some have medium-sized dreams, and that’s okay. But if you have house-sized dreams, call Doug at Lindal Cedar Homes in Saskatoon.

Picture this: afternoon light is slanting through your windows while you read a magazine, just like you’re doing now, but when you look up, way up, it’s cedar wood that greets your eyes.

Dream. Dream way up. Lindal makes house-sized dreams come true…daily. flr Douglas W. Pocha, President Lindal Cedar Homes 400A 41 Street, Saskatoon, SK Office: (306) 934-6666 or 979-0665 Toll Free: 1 (866) 581-8777 Mobile: (306) 241-1050

fine lifestyles regina

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Cedar Home, or modifying an existing home plan to fit your lifestyle, or embracing a home designed by an architect and customized by Lindal. And don’t forget Lindal’s Four Season Sunrooms!

finelifestylesregina | homes and real estate

A great place for a good read The Regina Public Library Home Lottery home

BY BRIAN BOWMAN

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he Regina Public Library Home Lottery for 2010 is underway, and once again, the grand prize is a contemporary home built by North Ridge Development Corporation. This year, the Library’s Home Lottery is giving away 37 prizes valued at over $700,000, along with this fully-furnished home in The Creeks, valued at $640,000.

“This is the fourth year we’ve done the Library home,” says Northridge’s VP of Operations Regina, Randy Pekar. “This is one of our most progressive homes ever, very modern but practical at the same time.”

Pekar points out a number of the home’s innovative features. One of them is what he calls an “overflow tub” in the ensuite bathroom, where the spout descends from the ceiling into the tub. The tub is allowed to overfill and the displaced water is collected and re-circulated. The result is a one-of-a-kind relaxation experience that you need to see and feel to fully appreciate.

Open for public viewing Located at 4018 Goldfinch Way, in The Creeks, the home is open for public viewing Monday to Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. Access is good to and from most areas of the city. Simply head southeast on Arcola Avenue and pass Wascana View, and about a minute later you’re there. You can also tour the home online by visiting the gallery section of www. northridge.sk.ca.

Tickets for the Regina Public Library Home Lottery are $100 each or three tickets for $250. They are selling fast, too. The early-bird deadline is March 31, 2010, and, with an additional $50,000 Spring 2010

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Blackstone Estates: Setting the standard once again!

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BY BRIAN BOWMAN

Spring 2010

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The feature wall in the great room includes a gas fireplace, a 50-inch plasma HDTV, and an entertainment system wired throughout the house. There’s an adjoining dining area with lots of glass and access to a deck, while the kitchen features a tile backing above the countertop, fluted glass on the cupboard doors, brushed metal appliances, and hanging lamps above the island table. Overall, it is a spacious, open-concept plan, very functional and with plenty of natural light.

All told, the home typifies the quality of location, construction and thoughtfulness of a North Ridge home, coupled with the stylish decoration of Alfords Furniture. CTV is a media sponsor.

The proceeds of this lottery will help fund the construction of a new Prince of Wales Branch of the Regina Public Library (quite handy to the new home!), along with some major repair projects at selected RPL branches.

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Functional and full of light

M a s t e r B ed r o o m

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cash to be won, this is a great reason to pick up your ticket today. Tickets can be purchased at all Regina Public Library locations, at the Grand Prize Show Home, or at Prairie Advertising, located at 588 First Ave. E. in Regina. You can call for tickets, too. Phone lines are open 24 hours a day at 359-7323.

When you visit the home, take note of the ceramic tile feature wall in the entrance. It’s the first indication of the home’s modern touch. And there’s more.

Ceramic tile also floors the two bathrooms: cool in summer, but warm in winter, with in-floor heating in both rooms.

Very nice, especially when you step in or out of the overflow tub! Dark maple hardwood flooring is also prominent in the kitchen, dining room and great room.

“For entertaining, this home does not disappoint,” says Pekar.

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onsidering a condo? Before you commit, check out North Ridge Development’s Blackstone Estates, in Windsor Park. These Energy Star units come with individually fenced backyards, maple cabinets, and a 14-by-23foot garage. The exteriors feature dormers over the mullioned windows above the garage, brick masonry facing the street, and clean trim highlights to pull everything together.

Inside is where it gets personal. The list of customizable features includes a custom backsplash package, granite countertops, a master bedroom ensuite option, and a bonus room option. There are also several floor plans to choose from, ranging from 1,336 to 1,413 square feet.

Located at the corner of Windsor Park Road and Haughton Road, Blackstone Estates is one of Windsor Park’s last residential condo projects. This designation results in lower traffic volumes, fewer commercial vehicles, and a generally more peaceful neighbourhood.

That said, the site is near several major transportation arteries that offer rapid access to the entire city. In addition, Blackstone is also situated in close proximity to numerous retail/commercial amenities that reside on the east Regina strip.

For more information or to obtain a full feature sheet and floor plans, please visit www.blackstonecondos.ca or contact North Ridge at 352-5900.

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Another jewel in Regina’s crown

BY BRIAN BOWMAN

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ocated in Regina’s south-east, The Creeks provides a different kind of upscale living. Voted 2008’s best subdivision by the Regina and Region Home Builders’ Association, The Creeks has lived up to that honour ever since.

The development occupies one of the most attractive areas of the city, featuring plenty of green space and park areas. The lots are generous, ranging from 48 to 60 feet wide and up to 140 feet deep. Several design guidelines to enhance the streetscape have been implemented, and home plans are reviewed by Robinson Residential Designs to ensure their consistency. Boulevard landscaping and oldfashioned street lighting also add character, while the decorative, concrete perimeter fence further reinforces the street appeal.

It’s the kind of planning that attracts customers from all walks of life, from young

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professionals to the established boomer generation. As Kevin Reese, General Manager for The Creeks, puts it, “Beautifully designed homes in a good neighbourhood will always increase in value over the long term.”

The contractors in The Creeks comprise seven of Regina’s best homebuilders to ensure the highest construction standards. So far, about 40 homes in the Creeks are either completed or under construction.

Recently, due to increased demand for this subdivision, The Creeks pushed forward with its Stage 2 development of 58 lots, which include many of the same features as the first stage. Cul-de-sac, parkbacking and environmental reserve backing lots are also still available. The prices are affordable; some very attractive lots are priced in the low $100,000s.

“The affordability of these lots offers exceptional value for a subdivision of this quality,” says Reese.

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Ultimately, The Creeks is planned for 625 single-family homes and 100 medium-density units for a total population in the development of about 2,000 people. There is no commercial development in this neighbourhood, which keeps traffic to a minimum. That said, The Creeks has great access via Arcola Avenue to leisure facilities, the University of Regina, SIAST and numerous shopping locations, many within a 10minute drive.

Currently, five show homes are open for viewing, including the Regina Public Library Lottery Home, and all of the builders have lots available for immediate construction. The show homes really need to be visited to fully experience the neighbourhood and appreciate the full scope of this development. flr For more information about the Creeks, visit www.thecreeks.ca or call 522-2300.

fine lifestyles regina

Emerald Park Homes Building their own neighbourhood

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hen Emerald Park Homes builds a custom home for a client in White City, they are welcoming them to their neighbourhood.

Though the company builds anywhere within an hour of Regina, most of its custom houses are constructed on its hometown turf of White City and Emerald Park. Here, clients and their families can experience a wholesome quality of life, relishing their close proximity to nature and surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the prairies.

Just 10 minutes from Regina, White City and Emerald Park boast all the comforts of small-town living without sacrificing

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any of the convenience of city life. An abundance of parks and trails, including paved and lighted pathways, provide numerous opportunities for residents to enjoy the communities’ wide-open spaces and fresh air. Golfing, cross-country skiing, hiking, hockey, and skating can all be enjoyed at the various recreational facilities, including multiple ball diamonds, outdoor tennis courts and skating rinks, and an 18-hole golf course.

Combine all this with safe neighbourhoods and streets, excellent schools, and a close-knit community spirit, and it’s no surprise that Emerald Park and White City have built reputations as safe, secure and enjoyable places to live and raise a family.

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With nearly 20 years of experience working in their community, Emerald Park Homes can help clients find the perfect location for their dream home, whether it includes extra room for a shop or RV, a golf-course view, or a west-facing backyard where they can sit and watch the sunset.

Prospective homeowners will find a choice of lot types available in the new Bower West subdivision, including both walkout and bay lots. Each lot in the subdivision has an eight-foot side yard, leaving a comfortable 16 feet of space between houses. A new school has been proposed for the area, making Bower West an ideal location for young families. fine lifestyles regina

J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BE RG, COVERT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

BY TRILBY HENDERSON

PHOT OGRAPHY: J ESSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BERG, COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

One couple’s experience Clarence and Darlene Woloshyn were well aware of the benefits of living in Bower West when they purchased a lot in the subdivision. The couple has a long history in the community, where they have lived, worked and raised their three boys. Clarence also served as White City’s mayor for nine years, and Darlene worked as a town administrator.

With their boys now grown and living on their own, Clarence and Darlene decided to downsize from their large family home to a two-bedroom bungalow with plenty of main-floor living space.

Although neither Clarence nor Darlene are ready for retirement, they wanted to make sure their new home and yard would serve their needs in the future.

The Woloshyns selected an east-facing lot with plenty of green space off the backyard. Darlene says they enjoyed the open space their large former yard offered, but wanted the easy maintenance of a smaller yard. Their location in Bower West enables them to have both.

When it came time to choose a homeSpring 2010

builder, the decision was easy. Darlene knew Emerald Park Homes had a solid reputation in the community after hearing many positive stories about the company while working for the town. The Woloshyns contacted Garry Sawchyn, owner of Emerald Park Homes, and took the first step toward building their new dream house.

A strong team of professionals Emerald Park Homes works with a strong team of professionals consisting of highly skilled individuals who also operate well as a group. Many of their tradespeople have worked with the company for years, and even though the job site is always busy, they still take the time to meet their customers and answers questions about their part in the homebuilding process.

Both Clarence and Darlene greatly appreciated the access they were given to their developing home, and to the Emerald Park Homes staff, throughout the construction process. In fact, Darlene says they spoke with Garry on an almost daily basis as their home was built.

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“Garry’s a very hands-on guy. He was always on site,” she said. “We never, ever felt like we couldn’t call him.”

Darlene says they had a good idea of what they wanted in their home before they began—including an open-concept floor plan, main-floor laundry, and a marble sitdown shower in the ensuite bathroom— but being able to access their home as it was constructed enabled them to adjust their original plan, at times, to better suit their needs. For example, Darlene says they opened up the hallway by removing a wall near the basement stairwell and incorporated niches at key locations throughout the house where they now display framed art and treasured objects.

The Woloshyns also decided to add decorative interest to their ceiling by painting a border around its perimeter to match the colour of the walls. The effect gives the perception of a higher ceiling, and has been frequently complimented by visitors to the home. “We’re really happy we did it,” said Darlene. “It’s just something different.”

Of course, there were some aspects of their new home’s design that the couple fine lifestyles regina

was set on from the very start, including a built-in china cabinet in the dining area and a spacious corner pantry in the kitchen. The addition of a glass-tile backsplash gives the kitchen a modern twist without interrupting the visual flow of the space.

Clarence and Darlene wanted plenty of windows on the west side of the house to take advantage of the natural light coming in from their backyard. The home’s windows feature wide frames and deep inner ledges reminiscent of those found in Victorian-era houses. Several windows in the home have panes, which further add to their traditional feel, and transom windows placed above the main entrance and the patio doors allow in additional light without sacrificing privacy.

“I’ve always dreamed of a veranda on the front of the house,” said Darlene, adding that they opted to build two decks: a covered deck on the front of the house and another at the rear. This is where Darlene looks forward to relaxing after she retires, and where she and Clarence can enjoy the outdoors and spend time with their grandchildren.

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Less maintenance, more enjoyment Emerald Park Homes encourages customers to choose maintenance-free and energy-efficient features for their new homes to enable them to spend their free time and money enjoying their house instead of worrying about maintaining or repairing it. The Woloshyns’ new bungalow features 40-year shingles, triple-glazed low-e windows, spray-foam insulation around the joists, a no-maintenance exterior, and no-maintenance decks. For Clarence and Darlene, these features mean they have more time to spend with their family, especially the grandkids.

able deposit needed to hold a lot. From there, he will walk clients through the process step-by-step, working within their budget to create a quality home that meets all of their specific needs and expectations.

Each time Clarence and Darlene welcome guests into their new home and see their pleased reactions to the bungalow’s distinctive, yet harmonious, features, it reinforces their certainty that they made the right decision when they chose to work with Emerald Park Homes. The company’s motto states “Our Quality Shows,” and the Woloshyns know their new home is no exception. flr

With spring fast approaching, now is the time for prospective homeowners to start planning and preparing. Although Emerald Park Homes builds year-round, spring is always a busy time of year for construction to begin, as most homeowners want to be in their new homes by Christmas.

To make this possible, Garry of Emerald Park Homes says he is ready and waiting to help new homeowners start the planning process, with only a small refund117

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he Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association presented the 18th Annual Master Awards on January 30, 2010. The award winners were recognized for their dedication and excellence in helping many Regina and area citizens in securing a home and lifestyle they can be proud of and enjoy.

The Master Awards recognize members’ outstanding achievements in 2009 in the residential construction industry.

Master Awards range from multiple Best New Home categories to Best New Home Kitchen, Environmental Leadership in Housing and Community Service. Each category is judged according to the criteria set out for each award. Judges are recruited from outside the RRHBA

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membership to provide impartial judging for each award entry.

Since 1955, the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association has been the voice of the residential construction industry in Canada, one of the most vital and enterprising industries in Canada.

Canada is an acknowledged world leader in residential construction, and Canadians are considered among the besthoused people in the world. We are widely recognized for our technological “know-how,” highly regarded for our innovative spirit, and well respected for the quality of the homes members build.

The Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association is built on a vision of a strong 118

and positive role for the housing industry, and a commitment to support the business success of their members and their ability to provide affordability, quality and choice for consumers. The RRHBA works hard to support the professionalism of its members and to achieve a healthy business environment for you.

The RRHBA works to promote the interests of housing consumers. It believes that all Regina citizens should have the right to a reasonable opportunity to own their own homes. It also believes that all Regina citizens have the right to decent, safe and appropriate housing. flr

fine lifestyles regina

Room-to-Room Renovations Designing a new home? Improving an existing one? There are businesses and professionals all over Regina with the expertise you need—and you’ll find them right here, with expert advice, hints, tips and stunning visuals!

Ready? Turn the page!

room-to-room renovations

crave kitchen + wine bar’s hot new look, courtesy of CK One

BY CORRIE KRZYSIK

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estled in the heart of downtown Regina,is my favorite hot spot, crave kitchen + wine bar, located in the historical Assiniboia Club.

So late last year when Craig Perrault called me to discuss the possibilities of doing some decorating to help to kickstart 2010, I was excited, but really nervous! Our goal was to bring a vibrant modern twist while still maintaining the gorgeous vintage components of this beautiful heritage building. As I started working my way through the project I quickly realized I was able to use a lot of the hottest trends that I love and implement them in this historic space on a much larger scale.

Wallpaper makes a comeback One of the hottest trends today is wallpaper and textures. Not the wallpaper our houses had back in the day, with matching borders. The wallpaper today speaks this crazy language of cool! It’s making a huge comeback, and it just makes this statement I can not describe.

It really creates a different look and is so simple to do.

Wall texture also makes a large statement and adds a unique look, wherever you choose to put it. I wallpapered the main Spring 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY: COVE RT OPZ PHOT OGRAPHY & DE SIGN

The building has seen its share of changes since it’s been open, but crave kitchen + wine bar’s philosophy remains the same— to evolve into a business that establishes a relationship with downtown Regina, other local businesses and residents, as well as visitors to our province. Whether you’re looking for a downtown business-lunch location or seeking an upscale at-night venue with amazing food and drink, crave kitchen + wine bar is able to deliver a unique, accessible atmosphere and restaurant experience.

entrance of crave with bold black velvet and shiny ovals, because I knew it would make a statement all on its own and the walls are grand enough to show it off. It really “pops” around the grand white pillared arches, and gives a very classy-yetmodern look.

In the liquid lounge, I decided to use the same wallpaper, but in white, and wallpapered the backs of the bookcase for a fresh updated look—but still subtle. The wallpaper is by Echo Design, and can be found at Yarnton Paint and Wallpaper.

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Yarnton has a wide selection, and patterns that will fit into any style and budget.

I chose to texture the walls in crave kitchen + wine bar with a product known as Wall Flats—another one of my favorite current trends. They are made from 100percent bamboo pulp, and they come in five different patterns. They can be permanent or temporary, depending on where you choose to put them and how you hang them. They can also be painted.

Wall Flats are simple, modern, versatile and eco-friendly. fine lifestyles regina

Chandeliers are hot

Hanging in the main entrance is a chandelier that has a white wide band that’s round and shear, with glass balls that are different lengths, as well as different sizes.

It is very eye-catching and is definitely the focal point of the room. With the wallpaper, it adds to the charisma I have created in that space, making a memorable first impression of the new look.

sleek and very sexy, complementing the wall flats that I used on the upper walls.

This look and feel will keep you in for the night, enjoying the nightlife and the cool surroundings.

You will also notice a chandelier in the champagne room that gives off a soft romantic vibe, and can be dimmed just enough to set the mood. Dimmer switches are an accessory to lighting that plays an important role in creating the mood and ambience of your space.

All of my lighting finds come from Richardson’s Lighting. The selection is amazing, the staff are amazing, and they are very accommodating with all of the latest lighting trends. If they don’t have it, they will find it for you!

When choosing the theme for the liquid lounge, I felt that I needed to create a feel that was accommodating to anything from a stagette to a guys’ night out watching the game. For the lighting, I chose a more trendy look, with stainless steel tubes that make up a flat round pendant shape. To create an intimate feel in crave kitchen + wine bar, I chose to use long, glass rectangular pendants that are

Colour makes a difference

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To finish off the decorating, aside from the accessorizing, I must talk about paint. Colour is a very simple change and makes a great deal of difference in the look and feel of a room. When it comes to choosing colours, you have to decide what feel you want in that space.

Will it be bold or tranquil or warm?

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These are all things to consider when deciding on the colour elements.

Crave has showcased red, black and white from the start. Those colours work well in there so I stayed with them, and added some new ones. I decided to go with a raspberry red to allow a cool undertone to complement the wallpaper. I also thought that silver metallic ceilings in the main entrance would look quite neat with the reflection from the chandelier, and add just a punch more of colour.

Steel grey, lime green, and a very tranquil bluish gray colour was added to the palette in the 10 spot. All spaces are decorated differently and uniquely to present a style that distinguishes one room from another. The colour palette that I have used for crave is available to you if you would like to implement these colours in your own space.

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Chandeliers have come and gone and are back, making a debut on my list of current favorite trends. They are making a statement everywhere you go! The wide range of chandeliers that are available today is incredible! I wanted something cool-yetglamorous for crave, so I chose a piece that has become a conversation topic.

room-to-room renovations

Accessorizing brings the look to life Finally, let’s accessorize—my favorite pastime! Accessorizing completes the look and brings everything to life. I love the colour white as an accent, and it stands out so well. White complements anything from vases to baseboards. It can show off the littlest things, such as dinner plates, or the biggest things, such as textured walls.

I put together lots of different vases with unique greenery in different shapes and sizes. I love accenting with mirrors as they have the ability to minimize or maximize all types of space.They look fabulous and don’t cost a lot.

Crave has a love for candles, burning to create a warm ambiance, so I made sure that we had no shortage of candles to cover all of the small spaces. I chose a simple white tray that holds a vase with a stem and a glass tealight holder for the table centerpieces. Simple, elegant, and not too big. With this look, the stem can be interchangeable, making it easy to change the look for the different seasons.

A great way to perk up your space with little money is a fresh bouquet of flowers. Simple and very affordable. All you need is a vase filled with water!

All accessories in crave kitchen + wine bar can be easily sourced for purchase as accents in your own personal space. Check out my shopping guide!

My last few thoughts are simple, as I Spring 2010

wrap this up. Be enlightened by new ideas! Think about your own favorite things and create a style that reflects you and what you crave! Once you have sat down and pondered, set yourself up for a challenge, and don’t sell yourself short in your decorating world!

Check out crave kitchen + wine bar at cravekwb.com or on Facebook and become a fan! Private space and off-premise catering are also available. For more information consult their website or email crave@sasktel.net.

I would like to thank Crave for the opportunity, and encourage everyone to check it out for themselves! flr

Corrie Krzysik CK ONE Design & Consulting Tel: 351.8425 Email: corriek123@yahoo.ca

Shopping Guide

Richardson's Lighting Yarnton Paint & Wallpaper Wp Garden Center Ck One Design & Consulting

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Kitchen Craft Cabinetry A full-service company taking your new kitchen from design to installation B Y L E E PA R E N T

When you’re searching for inspiration for this most important room, you’ll find all you need in the newly renovated showroom of Kitchen Craft Cabinetry at 1434 Broad St. in Regina (phone 522-8949).

Store Manager Angus Smith is enthusiastic about every aspect of the business, including the renovation project that brought the facility up to totally modern standards. “It took about six months to complete the transformation of the building,” Smith says. “The renovation included everything from the warehouse to the reception area, the design suites and the 14 new kitchen and bath displays.”

Kitchen Craft Cabinetry is a full-service Spring 2010

company offering everything to complete your cabinetry, from design through installation. At their website, www.kitchencraft.com, you’ll find many tools to help translate your dreams into reality. For instance, there’s a gallery of photos to spark your vision of the perfect kitchen. Then there’s a Showroom Tour, showing different styles and colours of cabinetry. Instant Makeover is a fast, fun way to explore colours, styles and special features, and the website also offers lots of elegant photographs.

The store employs five full-time designers, design assistants, operations staff and a crew of installers that bring the project to completion. “One key member of the team is the auditor,” Smith says. The auditor’s role is to walk through the completed project and ensure the client is happy with the final product. A kitchen renovation is obviously a large investment for any customer; the team at 123

Kitchen Craft Cabinetry does its best to ensure enjoyable and satisfying final results, no matter what the project.

A step-by-step process Smith follows a logical, step-by-step process. “The first question is usually is it a new home or a renovation,” he says.

“Then the process is similar to the design process for anything.”

The designer concentrates on three areas, he explains. The first is “fit,” which in this case refers to where the cabinetry is placed in the kitchen workspace.

The second area is “function.” Here the designer works with the client to determine what style of cabinets will go where, and with what features. Should there be drawers? Pullouts in the pantry? Spice racks? Etc. “There is an almost endless supply of acfine lifestyles regina

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he kitchen is the heart of any home, so it’s also where many home renovations begin. Often, it’s also the area most closely scrutinized on a floor plan when homeowners contemplate building a new residence.

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“The final aspect to be covered in a design project is ‘finish’,” Smith continues.

At this stage the client can finalize the species of wood, the type of doors, the colour, the glazing (if selected), the handles and the accessory glass, to name just a few details.

Which is harder: building new or renovating?

I began to wonder which would be more of a challenge: planning a brand-new kitchen in the empty space of a home under construction, or a renovation in an older home with all its existing foibles?

Having been involved in both types of kitchen project, I was aware of some of the ramifications of each situation, but curious how the professionals feel.

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In Smith’s opinion, a renovation has more unique challenges. “The biggest issue we have to be conscious about is that the customer is living in the home, and we don’t want to be overly intrusive or take too long in getting their kitchen or bath back to a functioning state.” As a survivor of such a renovation, I can appreciate his consideration; doing without a kitchen for four days was a monumental challenge at our house when we updated it several years ago, and the tension grew with every passing day.

With this in mind, the Kitchen Craft team strives to make the home livable again as quickly as possible. “The average install takes about three days, by which time the project is nearly complete,” says Smith. “We will typically need to make one or two service calls to correct small deficiencies that the homeowners have identified, and then it’s time for the clients to enjoy their new kitchen for years to come.”

Obviously, Smith and his squad at Kitchen Craft Cabinetry have perfected the process. They are a preferred cabinet supplier for many of Regina's finest builders.They were chosen to construct 125

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cessories,” says Smith. (Exploring the available features and products, I had to agree; in fact, I found several storage options that I’d love to incorporate in my next kitchen!) As clients voice their concerns about efficiency and organization, the Kitchen Craft Cabinetry team can offer up-to-date solutions and innovations for each situation.

the kitchen in Dundee Homes’ show home in Harbour Landing; they also did the kitchen in Century West Homes recently closed show home, which is one of five finalists in the Canadian Home Builders Association National annual Sales and Marketing (SAM) Awards. flr Kitchen Craft Cabinetry 1434 Broad St., Regina Tel: (306) 522-8949 Toll free: 1 (877) 805-0038 www.kitchencraft.com

fine lifestyles regina

room-to-room renovations

Budget Blinds Helping homeowners choose the perfect window coverings

BY TRILBY KNUTSON

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hether you’re seeking traditional comfort or modern elegance, no home decor is complete without the right window coverings. With its one-stop shopping experience and excellent customer service, Regina’s Budget Blinds is helping homeowners raise the bar on personal style and give their homes a finishing touch they can be proud of.

Marcel and Leanne Fisher and Kari and Mandy Lines were looking for a business opportunity that would give them the flexibility to raise their young families when they decided to open their own Budget Blinds franchises in the city.

The Lines set up shop in northeast Regina, while the Fishers’ business covers southeast Regina and the areas of White City, Estevan and Weyburn. Regina’s Budget Blinds also serves customers in Moose Jaw and Swift Current. Although the two couples operate their businesses separately, they work closely together to deliver Budget Blinds’ high-quality products and impeccable service to their growing network of customers.

Both the Fishers and Lines says business has exploded since they set up shop in the city two years ago, with a large portion coming from return customers and referrals. Anyone who has dealt with the staff at Budget Blinds knows where the company’s strong reputation stems from. In addition to offering customers an extensive selection of products, including Budget Binds’ own Signature Series product line, the company provides a service package that is unequalled by its competitors.

Free in-home consultation First and foremost, Budget Blinds offers customers the convenience of shopping for window coverings from the comfort of their own homes by offering a free inhome consultation. Fisher says this is by far the best way to choose window coverings, because customers can compare the actual products to their furniture, wall colour, and lighting to see how it will fit with the overall feel of their home.

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to help them select the window coverings that best suit their needs by discussing the pros and cons of each option. In addition to helping homeowners choose a product that suits their home’s décor, they also focus on making sure the product serves the desired function, such as providing privacy or blocking damaging UV rays.

Installation can be included in the purchase of all Budget Blinds products, and the consultant even takes care of measuring the customer’s windows to ensure a proper fit.

The company’s Signature Series product line features a unique five-year no-questions-asked warranty, on top of the lifetime guarantee that comes with all Budget Blinds products.

Budget Blinds has window coverings to suit any budget, no matter how large or small. In fact, even though they offer a higher level of service, the company’s prices compare favorably to their big-box-store competitors. Plus, Budget Blinds offers a price match guarantee, meaning it will match the price on any identical products sold for less elsewhere.

Going green?

Budget Blinds’ selection of environmentally friendly “green” products enables customers to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing quality or style. All of the company’s Signature Series products are manufactured using eco-friendly practices, and the entire product line has been certified by Green Built Home, an organization that reviews and certifies products that meet sustainable building and energy standards.

Cordless window coverings are among the safest options for children because they eliminate the potential hazard of dangling cords.

Many of Budget Blinds’ products are made of renewable or recycled materials, such as bamboo or reeds, and others come from certified sustainable hardwood forests. Several Budget Blinds products are designed to emit fewer indoor emissions, making them a healthier choice.

Reduce that heating bill!

During cold winter months, up to 30 percent of a home’s heat can be lost through windows. Properly installed window treatments can effectively improve energy efficiency by providing an additional layer of insulation between the warm air and cold windowpanes. In addition to conserving natural resources, this translates into lower heating bills, and more money in the homeowner’s pocket.

Many of Budget Blinds’ products are specifically designed to conserve heat during the winter and keep the home cool during the summer. Shutters and cellular shades are among the best options, reducing heat loss by up to 40 percent, but roller and Roman shades with blackout linings are also very effective at cutting heat loss.

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room-to-room renovations other window covering is that they actually add value to your home,” she says. Unlike other window coverings, shutters are considered to be a fixed part of the home, which increases the home’s selling value.

Shutters feature classic, clean lines and come in a variety of finishes. Once installed, the beautifully designed structures offer a sense of permanence, as if they have always been a part of the home. Of course, shutters also serve a practical purpose by providing a great deal of insulation, which helps reduce home heating and cooling costs.

Fisher says roller shades are making a comeback, although they are a far cry from the touchy, out-dated versions that adorned windows in the past. She says the new roller shades provide a clean, modern look and are much easier to care for than horizontal blinds.

Child safety For parents of young children, safety is of utmost importance when choosing window coverings. Budget Blinds gives parents and other caregivers peace of mind by helping them to select window treatments that both look good and contribute to creating a safe living environment for their small loved ones.

Cordless window coverings are among the safest options for children because they eliminate the potential hazard of dangling cords. This includes products with cordless lift systems, which can be raised or lowered by hand, and motorization, where window coverings are opened and closed using a remote.

If customers still prefer corded window coverings, they can opt to include one of Budget Blinds cord control features, such as the break-way tassels and cord stops, which break apart under slight pressure, or the continuous cord loop system, which keeps cords taut and out of the way.

Budget Blinds’ Signature Series cellular shades, roman shades and pleated shades now feature a new cord-tensioning device that also enhances safety by eliminating dangling cords.

What’s hot, and what’s not Whether customers are building a new home, finishing a renovation, or just making a few simple updates, window space should be considered prime real estate when it comes to creating a sense of style. “When you think about how much window space covers your walls, you want that to stand out,” Leanne Fisher says. One of the best ways homeowners can take advantage of window space is by incorporating some of the newest window covering trends.

Fisher says shutters are definitely one of the hottest trends in window treatments. “The one thing that’s different about shutters in comparison to any Spring 2010

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Of all the roller shades Budget Blinds sells, solar shades are the most popular. The moderately transparent shades are designed to provide some protection from the sun, along with a bit of privacy, without obstructing the view. Kari Lines says, “For all of you store owners out there, these are a perfect solution to help maintain your customers’ view to the outside, while blocking the glare from their eyes!”

One of Budget Blinds’ newest and best-selling products on the market today is its Illusion blinds, a combination of a horizontal blind and a solar/roller blind.

Fisher says the Illusion blinds come in an assortment of colours for customers who are looking for that extra panache.

Cellular blinds remain a sought-after choice, as much for their functionality as for their looks. Cellular window treatments feature light-filtering and room-darkening capabilities, and are also effective as energy- saving insulators.

Whether they choose one of the current trends or stick with a more classic product, Lines reminds homeowners that window coverings do not stay in style forever.

“Replacing blinds is one of the most cost-effective and hassle-free ways to dramatically improve the look and value of your home. You want to update your window coverings so that they don’t date your house.” flr Budget Blinds Regina North & Surrounding Areas admin@bbreginanorth.com (306) 565-2399 www.budgetblinds.com/ReginaNorth/ Budget Blinds Regina South & Surrounding Areas reginaadmin@budgetblinds.com.

(306) 949-2300 www.budgetblinds.com/ReginaSouth/ fine lifestyles regina

Rock solid CNG Stone Products brings “Mother Nature’s art” into your home

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rom deep within the earth comes one of the toughest building materials on the planet, in a dizzying array of patterns and colours to grace our homes. Only diamonds are harder than the rock formed from the magma that surrounds the earth’s core: granite.

Available in hundreds of colours to match any decor, granite is not only extremely dense and durable, it’s gorgeous. Colours range from light pink to dark gray or even black, and unlike many man-made materials, it takes more than a dropped coffee cup to put a mark on it.

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CNG Stone Products can build your kitchen, bathroom or other countertops, even fireplace surrounds and mantles, from any of 450 colours and patterns, ranging from solid colours to what owner Scott Tresek calls “Mother Nature’s art,” dizzying patterns of swirls and colours.

“It’s pretty amazing,” Tresek laughs, “she did a good job!”

That natural art show is the combined result of the crystalline nature of granite and the various minerals it contains, especially feldspar. It’s these variations in mineral composition that give the range of colours, and what Tresek calls the 129

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BY CAROL TODD

room to room renovations

“movement” in the stone. The word granite itself comes from the Latin granum, meaning grain, a direct reference to the stone’s coarse-grained, crystalline structure. But the Latin-speaking Romans weren’t the first to use this versatile stone—that honor goes to the Egyptians, who used it to build the Cheops pyramid.

“The job’s not done after the install”

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Being able to fabricate the stone right here means CNG can offer what the companies who farm out their fabrication to outside the city cannot—full service and follow-up. And it’s that level of customer service that Tresek believes makes his company’s products a rocksolid investment. “The job’s not done after the install,” he stresses. “Customer service is very important to me: we work hard at it, we rely on it.”

Though the second-hardest rock on the planet is about as durable as it gets, having the project done locally gives the wriggle room needed if something does go wrong. Tresek says they keep extra stone on hand to ensure they can match the colours if there’s a problem during installation. “If you try hard enough, you can break anything. We have the ability to pop out that piece, sometimes even the same day, so the customer gets their install as promised,” he says.

Clients really appreciate CNG’s support and follow-up. Sherry Kraushaar, coowner with husband Ken of Cougar

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Custom Cabinets, says Tresek and the team at CNG are excellent to work with.

“We’ve really enjoyed working with them,” she says. “We’ve worked with other stone companies in the past, but CNG just goes that extra mile. They really respond quickly and they’re very good to work with.”

Those sentiments are echoed by Carol Gelowicz, who, along with husband Arnold, was referred to CNG by a friend who had actually had another company do his granite counters. “They were extremely helpful and made the whole process very enjoyable,” she says, adding that they were willing to take the time to ensure she was comfortable with both the product and the process. “They were always available to answer any questions or provide any additional information. I highly recommend them.”

Word-of-mouth pays off Tresek credits that kind of positive wordof-mouth with helping the business grow from a standing start in 2007 to where it is today, with the staff of a dozen people doing about seven kitchens a week. Tresek, along with then-partner Lorne Schalk, started out doing concrete countertops in 2007, bringing in third partner Gerard Rousseaux and launching the granite side of the business in 2008. The recession that hit much of the world at about that same time largely passed over Saskatchewan, with housing construction staying strong here. That activity helped get the new company off to a good start. Tresek says they would have 130

been content to get 10 to 15 jobs out of their first Home and Garden Show in 2008. He was stunned when they ended up with 80.

CNG has been rolling along steadily ever since, making everything from countertops to rec-room bars and shower stalls.

Tresek says there is a growing trend to use the durable, albeit more expensive, stone.

“More and more people have been putting it into their houses, to the point where it’s become almost expected,” he says, adding that granite adds value.

“When people are looking to buy a house, it’s definitely a selling feature.”

The durability of the product means that the initial cost is more than offset by granite’s long life and low maintenance requirements. The granite does need to be re-sealed on a regular basis; from every year to once every seven years, depending on the density of the stone. And Tresek says the cost has been coming down as more suppliers enter the market. “It isn’t as expensive as it used to be,” he says.

Experienced staff But fabricating that level of durability and hardness requires extra effort, diamond-tipped tools and people who know what they’re doing. Tresek credits his experienced staff, especially Production Manager David Gray, with giving CNG the extra edge needed to compete in a busy market. “Dave has been cutting stone and laying out flats for 15 years, and my polishers all have lots of experience. They’re awesome at their jobs.

fine lifestyles regina

CNG Stone 1445 Scarth St., Regina, SK Tel: 585-9876 Email: sales@cngstone.com www.cngstone.com

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They love working with stone and it shows in the quality of work we do.”

That commitment to quality and superior customer service extends to trying new ideas and new products. Kraushaar points out that CNG was one of the first companies to bring in onyx. “They’re innovators in bringing things in. They brought onyx in to the city and it’s so amazing, just gorgeous. They aren’t afraid to do that,” she says, pointing out they already have a huge selection of granite and other rock on-site. “We enjoy dealing with them. With their enormous selection and willingness to explore new product options, they are a really good company to work with.”

Regardless of which of the hundreds of different colours and patterns of different stone homeowners want to include in their new house or renovation plans, Tresek suggests they take the time to find a fabricator they’ll be comfortable working with. Those wise enough to choose CNG can even take a look at the slab of rock they’re considering, with between 150 and 250 huge slabs on hand at any given time. “I think it’s important for people to come in and see their slab before it’s cut,” he says. The Gelowiczes certainly appreciated that opportunity. Says Karen, “It was really helpful to be able to see the slab, and Scott and everyone at CNG really helped us visualize how it would become the final product.”

Tresek looks forward to continuing to build on the bedrock he and his partners have already laid down. Right now, he and his partners and staff are gearing up for their biggest event of the year, the Regina Spring Home and Garden Show, March 25 to 28 at Evratz Place. He invites everyone to come take a look at how CNG Stone Products can bring “Mother Nature’s art” onto your hearth and into your home. flr

Luminesque

Lighting your world with style B Y J U D I T H S I LV E R T H O R N E

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ith today’s homes varying as much as the people who live in them, everyone shares the need for stylish, functional lighting. And that’s where Luminesque Lighting shines.

They offer a distinctive array of lighting solutions to suit every individual taste and decor from the classic to the eclectic and countless options in between.

With more than 48 suppliers represented, Luminesque has one of the best selections in the city for your entire house, to create something subtle or bold, sophisticated or charming, old world or cosmopolitan. Their wide array of stock encompasses everything from ceiling fixtures, wall, track and recessed lighting and lamps to ceiling fans, vanities, fountains and mirrors. They also offer landscape and outdoor lighting.

An opportunity—and a natural fit Kelly Uhersky began Luminesque Lighting in 1986, and is currently the sole owner-operator. When Uhersky, an electrician by trade, decided he wanted to have his own business, he saw an opportunity and a natural fit in providing an alternative to the one other lighting outlet in Regina at that time. Although they’ve remained in the same location at 409 McDonald St., over the years the business has grown. There are now six full-time employees in the Regina store, plus they service Moose Jaw, Yorkton, Weyburn and Estevan.

Although their main business caters to Spring 2010

home builders and renovators, there are plenty of choices for the individual homeowner wanting something new and different, in a huge variety of finishes, textures and styles. The stunning collection at Luminesque provides ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting from the practical to the fanciful. A large, diverse selection is on display in their 3,500-square-foot showroom. What isn’t there can easily be ordered through their 200-plus-page catalogues for each of their suppliers, basically providing unlimited choice.

They also make decision-making easy with their tasteful groupings of fixtures that enable people to choose the same style for every room in their home, as well as outdoors. For instance, overhead fixtures in bedrooms, kitchens and living rooms can effortlessly be matched to one another, along with counterparts for accent lighting, such as floor and table lamps or wall sconces, and track or vanity lighting in a bathroom, as well as chandeliers in the dining area. For the discerning shopper, several groupings of living room fixtures complement the glass, wood and decorative metal coffee and end tables, which are on display and also available for purchase.

Friendly customer service The staff at Luminesque all pride themselves on their friendly customer service.

They understand that customers are not simply seeking fixtures to light a space, but rather considering decor and quality to illuminate their homes. They also un133

derstand the desire to create a mood or ambience in each area of the home, and the need to match any existing decorating scheme.

When people enter the showroom with an idea or style in mind, the knowledgeable staff will instantly guide them to the appropriate area, where they can browse to their heart’s content, selecting from everything one can imagine. Or they can seek suggestions and guidance to create distinctive different looks. With so many innovative styles to choose from, spanning old-world to ultra-modern, the choice can be daunting.

Kelly Uhersky recommends that before going to the lighting store clients make a list of the kinds of lights they’d like and where they’d like to see them. Light fixtures can be drop-down, flush or semiflush, mounted on ceilings, walls or on tracks or rails. They can be horizontal, vertical, inverted, and linear, and have substantial or delicate framework. The effect they create can be sleek to sweeping, dramatic to gentle, or romantic to stunning.

The details in each choice are important, depending on whether the client wants to reflect warm, inviting light or highlight artistic features. Fixture shapes can be geometric, straight, arched or rounded, from simple to dazzling. Elegant and intricate detailing can be accentuated or minimized, and the selection of finishes is vast. Polished, brushed, distressed, marble and mirrored finishes abound, along with other materials—even hand-cut stone. fine lifestyles regina

Current trends Currently, the trends in finishes are towards dark, warmer tones with more straight lines, though chrome is gaining in popularity. Uhersky notes that trends show up in western Canada six months to a year after they’ve become fashionable in Toronto or the United States. This isn’t surprising given that most of the dealers are located in the US or eastern Canada, he says.

Luminesque pilots the trends in the west and caters to every taste imaginable, from traditional to modern, the funky to the classic. Whether a customer wants something casual or something for today’s living, is creating new traditions or making a statement, there is bound to be something suitable to choose from. Clear, etched and stained-glass styles can be juxtaposed with old bronze, brass, iron, copper, pewter, silver and other metalwork, which is sculpted, textured or engraved.

Opal, art glass, hand-blown glass or fabric shades complement simple, ornate, or grand designs. Lavish crystals can create a stunning showcase or speak of simple elegance.

Shades come in a variety of shapes: bowl, fluted, square and multi-faceted and more. They also come in different colours and textures, from warm and inviting to stark and white to golden and serene, and are available in umber, opal, clear, and satin-etched, to name just a few. Bulbs can cast different hues of white, blue and yellow, creating a timeless effect from another era or bringing about a new dimension. Kelly Uhersky Spring 2010

says these days anything goes, with elements merging from different cultures and time periods.

of illumination they require. Luminesque also carries this superior energy-efficient choice in a wide range of products.

“The customer always comes first”

Not just indoor lights

Luminesque is there to serve the tastes of the customer. “The customer always comes first,” Uhersky says. With this in mind, the staff at Luminesque also offer lighting tips, such as recommending lighting placement for different-sized rooms, purposes, and effects. As an example, he mentions how a kitchen is probably the most necessary room to have well-lit.

Besides general overhead illumination, task-oriented arrangements are important for a kitchen, like recessed, undercabinet or counter lighting. This is determined by what surface needs it the most and what light source will be best used where, says Uhersky. Ambient or layered accent lighting could also be considered, controlled by its own switches and combinations.

Since he started in the business, Uhersky has noted that there are far more choices in lighting options, not only with style and design, but with methods and technology. Compact fluorescents, natural full-spectrum bulbs, and LED lighting are more popular now. He says most builders are turning to the Energy Stardesignated lighting. This governmentbacked program helps consumers save energy, save money and protect the environment, while still obtaining the type 134

Homeowners are also doing more outdoor living, and Luminesque caters to these needs as well. There are more durable exterior fixtures available, including wall lanterns, flush-mount and pendant entrance fixtures, garden and deck lights and fans, and post lights.

These can create an attractive finishing touch that emphasizes the outer beauty of any home, as well as adding security.

Most of Luminesque’s business comes from referrals, and Uhersky is constantly looking for new and innovative products to offer his customers. He also has prices to suit everyone’s budget, from chandeliers to the basics in kitchen and bathroom fixtures.

“We can work within whatever budget people have,” says Uhersky, who prides himself on a wide range of products at reasonable costs.

Function, style, and personal taste: whatever room you need to light, and however you want to light it, there is something for you at Luminesque. flr Luminesque Lighting Fixtures Designs & Accents 409 McDonald St. Regina 306.721.2111

fine lifestyles regina

Alpine Ceramics and Tile Integrity and professionalism at its best

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK

“I like the fact that you walk in and the dog comes over and greets you,” agrees customer Heather Shalley, who first hired Alpine Ceramics and Tile 13 years ago to work on her previous home. When she and her family decided it was time to remodel the downstairs bathroom of their current home, she automatically thought of Alpine. “I was very happy with their service then and didn’t even think of going anywhere else.”

Although Alpine Ceramics and Tile has been around for more than 40 years, Shawn Strohan only took over ownership two years ago. Strohan, a young family man, grew up in Regina and studied civil engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. His career took him to the Spring 2010

United States, where he eventually settled in Houston, Texas. Strohan describes his life there as one of long hours but almost limitless earning potential.

Family came first A lot of young men would be busy making their money now and putting the rest of life off for the future. Strohan, however, could see how quickly his son was growing up, and noticed the high divorce rate among his colleagues. With a two-hour commute everyday, he barely spent any time with his young family. He realized it wasn’t the lifestyle for him.

That’s when the Strohan family packed up and moved back home to Regina, and they haven’t regretted it for a moment.

Strohan was working in Houston when his dad, former owner of Custom Counter Tops, heard that the owner of Alpine Tile was retiring and wanted to sell. Being aware of the strong values and solid reputation of the business, Strohan was quick to step in.

“I just knew it would be a great opportunity,” he says with a grin. “The previous owner had an excellent reputation and we’ve worked at keeping that.

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s I walk through the doors of Alpine Ceramics and Tile, a friendly miniature poodle quietly greets me. I’m still patting the head of my new acquaintance when owner Shawn Strohan steps around the corner with a wide grin. Shaking my hand, he instructs his four-legged staff member to go back to the corner and lie down. I knew right away that my experience at Alpine Tile is going to be a pleasant one.

fine lifestyles regina

room-to-room renovations

“We offer unique service and excellent installs,” Shawn continues, adding, “We’re competitively priced, and our selection is excellent.”

Oliver's eyes light up as she describes the selection of tile on display in the showroom. “Whether a customer’s style is Arts and Crafts or ultra-modern, Alpine Tile definitely has the selection to suit their taste.”

The best selection Laura Oliver, an interior designer who recently moved from Calgary, is in total agreement. Oliver describes how, after she and her family moved into their Regina home, she decided the kitchen needed renovating.

As a designer, Oliver is used to getting what she needs from specialty shops. “If I want cabinets, I’ll go to a cabinet store and if I want ceramic tile, I’ll go to a ceramic tile store.”

Searching the Yellow Pages, Oliver and her daughter saw the listing for Alpine Ceramics and Tile. Within minutes of walking into Alpine’s location at 490 Henderson Dr., Oliver knew without a doubt that she was in the right place. “I’ve dealt with a lot of great tile stores in Calgary and they (Alpine Tile) were comparable.”

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Ceramic tile is the trend As Strohan shows me around the store, he pulls out various samples, ranging from traditional subway tile to a fashionable hardwood look. During my tour, Strohan tells me that ceramic tile has been the trend over the past few years.

The installation of ceramic tile will cost more initially, he says, but the lifespan is more than double that of linoleum. If looked after properly, it will still look great 15 to 20 years later and can actually increase the value of your home.

A charming owner and top-quality product are great, but what about customer service? Where does that fit into the picture?

isfied with the work they do, they won’t recommend Alpine to anyone else.

It was through a referral that Steve Whelan of Regina’s Days Inn and Home Suites first heard of Alpine Ceramics and Tile. When the Days Inn underwent renovations in 2008, it needed someone to install the ceramic tile in the bathrooms and pool area. Alpine Tile was recommended by another flooring contractor.

Whelan has been very impressed with Shawn Strohan’s “hands-on” approach, and says he appreciated the personal interest Strohan took in the project.

“We had monthly construction meetings,” Whelan says, “and Shawn attended every one.” This proved to Whelan that Alpine Ceramic and Tile was taking a long-term view of its work. It did not just bid on the project, do the job and move on. Whelan could see that the company really cared.

“We look forward to a long partnership with Alpine Tile,” says Whelan with a smile.

Strohan notes that they get their projects on a referral basis. If customers aren’t sat136

fine lifestyles regina

The personal touch It was the care and personal touch from the owner and installers that really spoke to Laura Oliver. Oliver was hosting a bridal shower on the last Sunday in January. She realized that the kitchen wasn’t scheduled to be completed yet, but she called Alpine Tile and told them about the shower.

“I know it’s not a big deal to men but I just told them, if it was possible, to get as much done as they could,” she says.

“Being a woman, these kinds of things are important to me.”

The installer went out of his way to get the job done on time for the bridal shower.

The women at the shower raved about the glass mosaic and backsplash. The pride and care of the installer shone through in the quality of the work and design.

That pride and care spoke loudly to Heather Shalley as well. She says the folks at Alpine Tile were very responsive to her questions, without trying to interfere in her plans.

Shalley also says she appreciated the personal touch and care that Strohan and his staff took. She feels it showed the oldfashioned, small-town values that we all know and cherish. “I’ve even recommended them to my parents!” she adds.

Looking ahead What’s next for this dynamic specialty business? Owner Shawn Strohan is looking forward to serving Regina and outlying areas for many more years, while maintaining the same level of excellence that has marked a path in the right direction for Alpine Tile.

The strong work ethic, integrity and exceptional service of the folks at Alpine Ceramics and Tile have set a high standard for everyone in their field.

Customer Kathy Lekivetz of Regina sums Spring 2010

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“I came there with a specific vision,” Shalley says, “and they let me have creative freedom. They let me have the say and gave me options. It was such a refreshing change from the big-box stores.”

it up nicely when she says, “They came and did exactly what they promised to do, in the time they promised to do it in.”

When asked if she would hire Alpine Ceramics and Tile again, Lekivetz responds with a firm, “Absolutely!” flr 137

For your Alpine Ceramics and Tile experience, drop by to see Shawn and staff at 490 Henderson Dr., or check them out online by visiting the website, www.alpinetile.ca.

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | dining, arts and entertainment

Regina’s mistress

of mu rder and mystery B Y PA U L A J O H A N S E N

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here are murder mysteries in bookstores and libraries across Canada. But they aren’t all stories about faraway places, written by people you’ll never meet.

Among the mysteries set in Chicago, New York, or Toronto, there’s an award-winning series set in Saskatoon and Regina.

And as you walk along your favourite neighbourhoods and trails, there’s an excellent chance that one day you’ll meet acclaimed Saskatchewan mystery writer Gail Bowen walking her dogs.

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Bowen uses many local details to set her novels in present-day Saskatchewan, literally and metaphorically a land of big skies and limitless horizons. Her characters move in and around Regina and Saskatoon, not some anonymous Anytown or Bigcity.

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“At six o’clock the next morning I was walking across the Albert Street bridge, thinking about murder. The city was sullen with heat from the day before, and it was going to be another scorcher,” wrote Bowen in her first novel, Deadly Appearances. “Mist was burning off Wascana Lake, and through the haze I could see the bright sails of windsurfers defying the heat. Already the T-shirts of the joggers I met on the bridge were splotched with sweat…” The heat of a Saskatchewan summer is an important element in this book, and prairie blizzards are featured in other books in the series. fine lifestyles regina

True to the Saskatchewan perspective “I’m not sure my work touches upon any profound truths, but I do think my books reflect some truths about life as it is lived here in Saskatchewan,” says Bowen. She comes by the Saskatchewan perspective honestly, having spent 41 years of her married life here. “We are an optimistic people. We do believe in next year. We do not see the problems that confront us individually or collectively as beyond solution. We believe that by rolling up our sleeves and working together we can make our province (and our world) a better place in which to live.”

The central character of Bowen’s mystery novels is Joanne Kilbourn, a widowed mother who pulls together her life in middle age. In the early novels, Joanne has two or three children living at home, and her Saturdays are filled “with the inevitable round of lessons and practices and errands.” As the 11 novels progress, romance and friendship support and

challenge Joanne, testing the confidence she needs to teach university courses, speak as a political TV commentator, and raise her family.

When Joanne goes out to eat or shop, she doesn’t just go to some anonymous franchise that is one of a chain. Each restaurant is described appropriately, from truck stops with good pie to fine dining experiences. Even small stores have interesting clerks and unique products. “The restaurants and stores tend to be compilations of places I’ve been,” says Bowen, making use of “a particular dish from one restaurant, the ambience of another, a server from a third.” The net result is that the reader feels like it would be a darned good idea to go out to dinner in any of the places Bowen or Joanne likes!

Readers also learn that near schools, recreation centres and lakeside cabins, Joanne finds stores that hold anything she needs for a terrific home-cooked meal or a smart-looking outfit or a thoughtful present. “Getting from here to there in a city the size of Regina is seldom a logistical

problem, but it can be an emotional one,” Bowen wrote in her most recent novel, The Brutal Heart. “Often the shortest distance between two points is a straight line that leads past the house of an ex-husband, an ex-friend, or an ex-lover.”

“Write what you know” Many writers, like Bowen, believe in the old saying “write what you know.” And what Bowen knows is university life. She was an associate professor for years at First Nations University, after studying at the Universities of Toronto, Waterloo, and Saskatchewan. “…The campus had the late-summer stillness that hangs in the air of a college town in the days before students, tanned and reluctant, come back for another year,” she wrote in Deadly Appearances. “The smell of pine trees, sharp with memories of cottages and corn roasts, filled the air. In spite of everything, I felt better. Here was a world that still made sense.”

That’s part of the appeal of murder mys-

PHOT OGRAPHY: DONA ACHE SON

teries—the search for a world that still makes sense, even after bad things happen.

Another part of the appeal is that readers want to believe in justice, and understand the process of investigation and courts. During Bowen’s 11 novels, over time Joanne becomes familiar with the shock of crime and her own efforts to assist the police.

“Courthouses are fascinating places,” explains Bowen, “and I’m lucky that a very close friend is an Appeals Court Judge.

She’s endlessly patient about taking me through the courthouse, so those details are accurate.”

It’s the details that make all the difference in these books, so that readers can feel that Joanne is very much like a real person living and working in real places.

“From my kitchen window I could see the creek that separated my neighbourhood, Old Lakeview, from Justine Blackwell’s, an area of handsomely curved, pleasingly landscaped streets known, accurately if unimaginatively, as The Crescents,” wrote Bowen in Verdict in Blood.

Much of the action in this novel centers on a very expensive condo conversion in Regina’s warehouse district.

“I spent so much time taking pictures down there,” Bowen confesses, “that I think I was a person of interest for both real estate agents and members of the police force.”

“I can’t imagine not writing” Bowen is Canadian enough to feel embarrassed talking about herself for an interview. “I write because I can’t imagine not writing.” Bowen identifies herself as Spring 2010

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a professional not by the genre of mystery writer but by the fact that she is a working writer. “I work every day. I put in regular hours. And, like everyone else with a job, there are parts of my job that I enjoy more than others.”

Bowen confides that her agent has a client who worked out how much she earned per hour from writing. “After this writer deducted travel costs for promotion and the costs of postage, web-site maintenance and supplies, the sum was far less than a dollar. None of us writes because we want to be rich. As for glory—well, there’s not quite enough of that to go round.”

Regina’s Globe Theatre produced four plays by Gail Bowen between 1993 and 1997. One of these plays was also produced by Manitoba Theatre for Young People, and two by Grand Theatre in London, Ontario. Bowen has recently written radio plays for CBC and has just finished two new novels for Orca Books.

Mentor in demand Retired from teaching, Bowen is still a mentor in the writing community. The Toronto Reference Library had Bowen as a Writer-in-Residence last year. In June, Bowen will be a mentor at the Mystery Writers Retreat on Saltspring Island, sponsored by Simon Fraser University.

Readers can do a tour of Saskatoon or Regina and walk where Bowen’s characters walk and try the same physical activities Joanne Kilbourn and her family enjoy. “Many people have done the walking tour. It’s not difficult to figure out where Joanne lives, and once a reader has established that, the rest is easy,” says Bowen. “Joanne walks her dogs daily along the same route that my husband and I use to walk our dogs.”

So, if you’re interested in walking in the footprints of an imaginary woman or meeting a hard-working realist writer— you just have to ask the first dog person you meet out on the walking trails.

Look for The Nesting Dolls, the 12th book in Bowen’s popular series, in bookstores and libraries this August. flr fine lifestyles regina

Dining Around Regina Today you can take a culinary journey around the world without ever leaving Regina. From pizza and steak to Asian and fusion, there’s a Regina restaurant to tantalize your taste buds and pamper your palate. Your global dining adventure begins here!

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When a fresh-faced 16-year-old Phil McElree began working as a delivery boy at Trifon’s in the summer of 1985, little did he realize that he would soon learn first-hand what opportunity meant, both in business and in life. Phil thrived at Trifon’s, learning from the ground up that running a prosperous restaurant means that you must be prepared for hard work, dedication and responsibility. These Spring 2010

Trifon’s Pizza Working hard to create the best food and the best experience possible

BY G.H. LEWMER principles of successful business served Phil well when, in 1998, he realized a life-long dream and became an owner within the Trifon’s franchise.

Not that ownership of a restaurant was any easier, as I discovered when I sat down and spoke with Phil about his beginnings as one of Regina’s most respected restaurateurs. “To buy the restaurant I had to sell everything (even 144

my car) to come up with enough for the down payment. After I signed the papers, I had to walk to an auction, to be able to buy a car for $100 so I could get to work. Unfortunately, the car broke down after a couple of weeks. Luckily I was able to borrow my Dad’s truck to get to work. That’s when I soon realized how glamorous this job wouldn’t be.” fine lifestyles regina

PHOTOGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BERG

T

he foundation of any city is the people who create opportunity and the growth that arises from that opportunity. That’s what Trifon Agioritis brought to Regina when he and his family arrived from Greece. From modest and humble beginnings, Trifon created an intimate restaurant bearing his name, Trifon’s Pizza, which soon grew into a recognized and valued Saskatchewan institution, with 11 different locations across the province.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JE SSE COVERT-RUT T E N BE RG

Pay attention to your customer With the help of Phil’s wife, Tanya, who, like Phil, started working at Trifon’s Pizza in the summer of 1985, the restaurant flourished, with Phil’s and Tanya’s experience and vision being a key ingredient.

Spring 2010

“During this time I started to learn a very important lesson in business: pay attention to your customer. Treat them like a person, not a dollar. If they are not happy, you are not going to be happy either. You never believe that making a dollar is more important than making your customer smile.”

After five years of steady growth and prosperity, Phil and Tanya sold the restaurant in 2002, and moved on to greener pastures that beckoned first in Estevan, and then in Vancouver. While Phil and Tanya enjoyed what the west coast offered them both creatively and professionally, they soon realized how much they longed for the warmth of friends and family and the expanse of an 145

endless sky.

In 2006 when an opportunity opened to buy the same restaurant they sold back in 2002, they leapt at the chance and found themselves once again welcomed back again into the comfortable confines of the Trifon’s family.

“When we returned in 2006 we decided then and there that we wanted to create the best dining experience in Regina,” Phil says. “We were looking for bold and exciting ideas to incorporate and enhance what was already a great evening out.”

Phil and Tanya set out to maximize the future potential of the restaurant by investing in an off-sale area and their own microbrewery. Explains Phil, “The confine lifestyles regina

dine around regina customer service and listening to what the customers want that has gotten us to where we are today.”

Continuing to improve Change is an integral part of the philosophy that guides how Phil and Tanya do business. “Change is what the customers want to see. The customers likes to see that you are putting money back in the restaurant that they frequent. That’s why we’d like to add a new patio in the immediate future. It would open us up to expanding the enjoyment that people have when they spend time at Trifon’s. It just makes good sense.”

venience factor is something the customers really enjoy, and they are surprised and thrilled that we have our own microbrewery. Being that we are local and we pride ourselves in making the best beer in town, more and more people are willing to sample what we have to offer and we’ve seen sales increase dramatically over these past four years.”

Phil and Tanya were at first worried that the renovations required to actualize their dream would scare customers away, but they found it had the opposite effect. As Phil recalls, “We stayed open 99 percent of the time while the renovations occurred. In fact, business increased dramatically. Some customers told us that they would come specifically to watch how the restaurant transformed through all the work that we did. It was really inspiring and a testament to what a great group of customers that we have.”

“We cater to everyone” What sets Trifon’s apart from the majority of restaurants in Regina is the diverse range of people who enjoy the great food and comfortable atmosphere. “I believe people like us because we are a very inclusionary,” Phil says proudly. “Many restaurants try to build a certain clientele, but at Trifon’s we cater to everyone, from family diners to people coming in for a Spring 2010

meal after the ball game to people having a drink before they go for a night out at the clubs. I think people really enjoy that we have such a wide mix of people. I’ve had people comment that being at Trifon’s is very much like being at a party.

You get to meet so many new people and have such great conversations.”

Trifon’s is renowned for its food, and once one catches a glimpse at their selections it’s easy to understand why. With more than 100 different menu items, and comprehensive choices in pizza, pasta, burgers, sandwiches, seafood and salads, Trifon’s offers something for everyone and every appetite.

Selection is very important to Phil. “A restaurant lives or dies on the quality of its food and service. We work extra-hard to monitor how our customers relate to our menu. We’re constantly evolving the selection, ensuring that familiar favorites continually have that high-degree of quality that makes them such high-indemand choices.

“We’re also very conscious of trying new things and incorporating customers’ suggestions into our menu. That’s why we added a 25-bottle wine list to our menu, all mid- to low-range price. If a customer wants a special wine brought in for their meal, then we will go out of our way to do it. I know from experience that it is 146

In a world where international food chains promising more and more increasingly deliver less and less, it’s great to discover and embrace a locally owned and operated restaurant that prides itself on being a responsible member of the community, valuing service over profit.

It’s an ideal that remains very important to both Phil and Tanya.

“When we first started the restaurant we started with nothing. All we had was ourselves and hard work. We believe that the reason why Trifon’s is so successful today is because of that ideal of working hard to ensure that our customers have the best possible time they can possibly have when they walk through our doors. If someone isn’t happy I want to know why and I want to make sure that it never happens again.

“That’s why we have so many repeat customers. They all know that we will always work hard to do whatever we can to make sure they have the best meal and best experience possible. They appreciate and respect that. If you don’t have the respect of your customers, then you shouldn’t be in business.” flr Trifon’s Pizza, 1101 Kramer Blvd.

Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. until 1 a.m.

Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m. until 2 a.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m. until midnight fine lifestyles regina

Peg’s Kitchens offers city’s finest home-style Ukrainian food B Y F L R S TA F F

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eg’s Kitchen is proud to be Regina’s finest restaurant and caterer serving traditional Ukrainian fare, hand-made using traditional techniques and ingredients.

Breakfast is hot off the grill starting at 6 a.m. weekdays and 6:30 a.m. on Saturdays. Their homemade sausage patties and thick-cut bacon are a great, energizing start to the day.

Lunch runs from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., and features different items each day. The Ukrainian lunch—sausage, a cabbage roll, six perogies and a bun—is a perennial favourite. Other featured items include beef on a bun, savoury smoked sausage, Peg’s famous perogies, hearty sandwiches and soup/sandwich combinations.

As a caterer, Peg’s Kitchen offers a full dinner menu that includes beef, ham, or turkey with all the fixings, kobasa sausage, cheddar-cheese perogies, and their famous hand-rolled German-style cabbage rolls. There’s a choice of six different meat entrées plus sides, salads, rolls, accompaniments, and after-dinner dainties.

berry, apple, and special berry (a blend of several fruits) pies are unbeatable, made with a recipe written by Grandma Bep of Swift Current.

From their humble beginnings in a kitchen near Kronau, proprietors Peg and Vern Leippi have built a thriving enterprise. They contract with growers from the Craven area to supply the tens of thousands of cabbages they require to meet the demand for their signature cabbage rolls, served in some of Regina’s finest restaurants and at other commercial venues.

“Our cabbage rolls are definitely a bestseller,” says Peg. And she ought to know: she and her staff hand-roll as many of 6,000 each day. Peg’s Kitchen sells four varieties: beef and pork rolled in sweet cabbage, beef and pork rolled in sour cabbage, rice and onion in sweet cabbage, and vegetarian.

The most popular by far are the meat varieties, which are made with a filling that is 66-percent meat. In the same way they get their cabbage from a local supplier, Peg and Vern proudly buy Saskatchewan and get their meat from local producers.

“It’s important to us, as a business and as individuals, to support the people and businesses in our area,” Peg says. “The big chain stores will always be around, but if we don’t support our local producers, we all lose out.”

For the finest Ukrainian food in the city, drop by Peg’s Kitchen at 1653 Park St..

You can also visit them online at www.pegskitchen.ca. flr

They also offer a wide assortment of homemade dainties, including sticky cinnamon buns, tarts, slices, and other delectable sweet bites. Their saskatoon Spring 2010

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The Willetts on Wine How do I rate thee? Let me count the ways...

BY MARGARET ANNE & EDWARD WILLETT

If you’re knowledgeable enough, you probably already have some idea of what to expect from a given bottle based on its country of origin, the varietal, and the reputation of the winery. But even that can be a moving target as, vintage to vintage, grapegrowing conditions vary.

What you really need is advice. And that’s where wine-rating systems come in... ...but guess what? There’s more than one of those, too. Whose ratings do you trust?

PHOT OGRAPHY: E D W IL LE T T

Putting the systems to the test

W

hen you go into the liquor store, you’re faced with a bewildering selection of wines.

So many bottles, so many possibilities.

How do you choose a good one?

You could judge the wine by its label, of course, and many do. Which is why wineries try so hard (sometimes a little too hard, if you ask us: Fat Bastard, anySpring 2010

one?) to come up with unique names for their wines, and labels that will stand out on the shelf.

Still, you can put any old plonk in a fancy bottle with a beautiful label, and the wine will still be bad. So how do you get beyond appearances and figure out what to drink when you yourself haven’t tasted a wine?

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The best way to find out is to take a wine that you already know well, and love, and compare your tasting of it to the reviewers’ take. (Or, alternatively, you could use a wine that you loathe, but it seems a bit masochistic to drink a wine you really hate just to find out if the wine reviewers hate it, too!).

With that in mind, we thought it would be interesting to look at various systems with respect to one of our go-to family dinner wines, Wyndham Shiraz Bin 555.

One rating system you’ll see everywhere is the 100-point system made popular by guru Robert Parker of The Wine Advocate. Similar systems are used by other publications, such Wine Spectator. Scores in this point system are frequently displayed in liquor stores to help you make

fine lifestyles regina

an informed decision...or at least to encourage you to buy certain wines!

There are other rating systems out there as well, all of which can help you choose a good bottle of wine—especially if you put them to the test and find the ones where the assigned ratings match up to your personal taste.

Ultimately, though, all you really need is a two-point system: either you will buy the wine again, or you won’t.

Introduced by Parker in 1978, the strength of these 100-point systems lies in the universal understanding of what a high percentage means. (Although, ironically, Robert Parker never rates a wine below 50 points, so is it really a 100point system, or...?)

Our Wyndham Shiraz Bin 555 (at least the 2005 vintage) was rated 88/100 by Wine Spectator and, by way of comparison, 91/100 by Australian Gourmet Traveller Wine (um, who?).

That being the case, why not use a 20point system?

The U.C. Davis system That’s what we usually use when we rate wines ourselves. The one we like was developed by the University of California Davis, the hot-bed of viticultural study and research. It’s been around for a long time: it was established in 1959 to give the university a way to rate the large number of experimental wines produced there.

The simple and straightforward U.C. Davis system allows you to rate the wine based on 10 basic characteristics: appearance, colour, aroma and bouquet, volatile acidity, total acidity, sweetness/sugar, body, flavour, astringency and general quality. A rating of 17 to 20 indicates a wine of outstanding characteristics having no defects; 13 to 16 indicates a standard wine with neither outstanding character or defect; nine to 12 indicates a wine of commercial acceptability with noticeable defects, five to eight indicates a wine below commercial acceptability, and one to five would mean a completely spoiled wine.

Putting our standby wine to the U.C. Davis test gives us a score of 16—right at the top of “a standard wine with neither outstanding character or defect,” which sounds just about right.

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Margaret Anne and Edward Willett drink wine, buy wine, taste wine, write about wine, conduct wine tastings, belong to three different wine clubs, and have more corkscrews than they can count.

Our readers recommend...

Neil McClughan PHOT OGRAPHY: E D W IL L E T T

But when was the last time you saw a wine rated 23, or even 61? In fact, you never seem to see wines rated below 80...which makes the 100-point system more like a 20-point system.

When it comes to the Wyndham Shiraz Bin 555, that one’s easy: yes, we will! flr

Pirramimma Petit Verdot A favourite wine? What if I don’t have one? Life is too short to limit your wine experience to a handful of wines. For reds, I tend to gravitate to bigger, bolder wines, especially those that are unique in some way or from smaller boutique producers. One example is Pirramimma from the McLaren Vale region of Australia, made from 100-percent Petit Verdot.

Petit Verdot is one of the five Bordeaux classic red grapes, though it is seldom used in Bordeaux anymore since it is extremely late-ripening and often subject to frost.

However, in Australia it thrives. The Pirramimma Petit Verdot is a huge wine and can be quite overpowering when opened. Give it a few minutes in the glass to breathe, and it will change immensely. It’s great with stronger cheeses or with richflavoured braised meats.

Ellen McClughan

Prosecco Di Conegliano I was introduced to Prosecco 18 years ago and loved it! It is great to see North America picking up on the European trend of this refreshing light sparkling (frizzante) wine with biscuit-like notes. As sparkling wines go, Italian Proseccos range from very dry to slightly sweet, usually with small persistent bubbles. The cheaper ones can be a bit harsher. It is a great aperitif and is wonderful for any occasion, with any food. Prosecco is also great for making Bellini cocktails. The name is derived from the Veneto-region Italian village where the grape is believed to have originated. One great example available at SLGA stores is Prosecco Di Conegliano by Canella. A regular staple in our cellar as is Villa di Maser Prosecco, available through the Saskatchewan Opimian Wine Society.

Ellen and Neil McClughan (Level 2 Certificate from the International Sommelier Guild) are past Opimian Society representatives for South Saskatchewan. Ellen is a Systems Administrator and Neil is a co-owner of Tice Consulting Inc., a Business and Strategic IT Management Consulting firm. They love gourmet food, meeting fellow wine lovers, and practicing wine sampling as often as possible.

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Spices of

PUNJAB

East Indian Curry & Tandoori Delight

Enjoy favourites such as butter chicken, samosas, pakora, korma, biryani and much more.

We offer a daily luncheon buffet, a bargain at $10 tax included, featuring traditional dishes including naan bread and tandoori chicken prepared to perfection in our charcoal fired tandoor oven.

HOURS: 11:30am-2:00pm, 4:30pm-9:00pm, Closed Sunday

1009 Albert Street 543-1000 Spring 2010

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Entertainment Guide Spring 2010

COMPILED BY MARIE POWELL MENDENHALL

MAINSTAGE MARCH 17-APRIL 3

The Syringa Tree

By Pamela Gien. Directed by Jillian Keiley.

Regina-born actor Amy Matysio will star in a mainstage performance of The Syringa Tree at the Globe Theatre, March 17 to April 3. She will play the part of six-year old Elizabeth Grace, as well as 23 other characters: black, white, male, female, young, and old.

New professional theatre launches in Regina

Born and raised in Regina, Matysio received a BFA in Acting from the University of Regina. She is a three-time Canadian Comedy Award nominee, a member of the General Fools Improv Theatre Co., and recipient of the 2005 Regina Business and Arts Awards. She has appeared on the professional stage at Globe, Persephone, and many other venues, as well as in feature films such as The Unsaid, Just Friends, and Sleepwalking, and on such television programs as the award-winning sitcoms Corner Gas and Little Mosque on the Prairie.

Matysio auditioned with 18 young Saskatchewan actors for what Globe’s Artistic Director Ruth Smillie calls a “tour-de-force” role. She was selected for the role by director Jillian Keiley, the Artistic Director of Artistic Fraud in Newfoundland and winner of the Siminovitch Prize for Directing.

The Syringa Tree follows a privileged girl growing up in Johannesburg, as she and her family hide the newborn baby of her loving nanny Salamina. It’s well-known as a play that confronts racism in apartheid-era South Africa, and spans several decades, following a young woman’s journey to adulthood.

It’s sure to be a five-tissue production in Regina, as it has been on North American and world stages since its Seattle premiere in 2000. This autobiographical play by Pamela Gien began as an acting exercise in Los Angeles, growing into a one-woman show that broke all box office records in a two-year run at New York’s Playhouse 91. It has been performed extensively across Canada and the US as well as Europe. Amy Matysio’s website is amymatysio.com.

APRIL 21-MAY 8

Hillstrom is a professional actor-singer who has appeared at Globe Theatre in Regina, Persephone and 25th Street Theatre in Saskatoon, Manitoba Theatre Centre, Rainbow Stage and Actor’s Showcase in Winnipeg, as well as with Regina Light Lyric Opera (now Regina Lyric Musical Theatre). She has directed productions for Regina Summer Stage and Regina Light Lyric Opera, and she received the 2002 YWCA Women of Distinction Award for Arts and Culture. As owner-operator of Class Act Performing Arts Studios, she has presented 18 years of dance, drama, and musical theatre instruction in Regina.

A Doll’s House

By Henrik Ibsen. Adapted by Frank Mcguinness. Directed by David Latham.

JUNE 4

Special Event: Sexy Laundry

By Michele Riml. Directed by Ruth Smillie.

Shumiatcher Sandbox Series Templeton Studio Cabaret MARCH 24-27

Fusion Directed by Jayden Pfeifer and Johanna Bundon.

APRIL 29-MAY 8

Bertha Created and performed by Lucy Hill.

MAY 12-15

The Tooth Fairy Created, conceived and performed by the Old Trout Puppet Workshops & David Rhymer.

Spring 2010

Andorlie Hillstrom and Robert Ursan, well-known for their activities with Do It With Class Young People’s Theatre, have started up a new professional theatre company in the city. The Golden Apple will present small ensemble works from Canadian and international musical theatre and drama. The company launched with a fundraising cabaret on February 12 at the T.C. Douglas Building.

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Robert Ursan has been writer, performer, director, or musical director for more than 100 theatrical works. He is Musical Director for Do It With Class Young People’s Theatre. He holds degrees from the University of Regina Conservatory of Music, Oberlin College in Ohio, University of Toronto and the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow, Scotland. He has sung with opera companies in Canada and Britain, and performed at Alberta Theatre Projects and Globe Theatre, among other professional companies. As composer, he has written three operas, five musicals, and scores for eight Globe Theatre productions, as well as other works.

For more information contact Andorlie Hillstrom at (306) 5504589 or andorliehillstrom@me.com.

fine lifestyles regina

APRIL 3

Shen Yen

Kramer IMAX Theatre Now playing: I I

Van Gogh: Brush with Genius I Wild Ocean Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs

APRIL 6

Franklin the Turtle (kids) APRIL 13

Powerhouse of Discovery New visiting exhibit:

Barenaked Ladies

K’NEX Building Thrill Rides EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY FAMILY-FRIENDLY 2 P.M. ACTIVITIES

MAY 3-4

Our Lady Peace

SASKTTEL MAX THEATRE

Eyes on the Skies MAY 25

Upcoming events: MARCH 31 - Aeronautics

Spring 2010

Engineer Contest Provincial Finals (Grade 6)

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Robert Munsch (kids)

fine lifestyles regina

MARCH 18

Billy Talent with Alexisonfire Against Me and Gallows MARCH 30

Hedly with Boys Like Girls Stereos and Fefe Dobson APRIL 2

Korn with Five Finger Death, Punch and Stillwell APRIL 30-MAY 1

Monster Spectacular MAY 15

Daughtry with Lifehouse and Cavo

MARCH 15 MARCH 19 MARCH 20 MARCH 29 APRIL 3 APRIL 14 APRIL 30 MAY 11 MAY 21 JUNE 27

Stars from The Commitments Sawyer Brown Jimmy G and the Doo Wops The Melody Kings Michael Bolton Buddy Guy Martin Short The Beach Boys George Thorogood & The Destroyers George Benson

APRIL 24

Acoustic Brotherhood Tour with Los Lonely Boys and Special Guest Joe Ely

REGINA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Mosaic Masterworks, Conexus Arts Centre MARCH 13 APRIL 10 MAY 1

Crouching Tiger Guest Artist: Georeg Gao, erhu Music of the Americas Guest Artist: Thomas Yu, piano Cinema Classics Guest Artist: Emilia Boteva, mezzo soprano, Regina Philharmonic Chorus

Shumiatcher Pops, Conexus Arts Centre MARCH 20

Spring 2010

ABBAmania Guest Artist: Jeans n’ Classics

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finelifestylesregina | sport, recreation and travel

A Q&A with New Rider GM Brendan Taman

O

BY ROD PEDERSEN

n January 10 Brendan Taman was named General Manager of the Saskatchewan Rough-riders and the successor to Eric Tillman. The 43-year old from Saskatoon spent the previous 10 seasons in a similar role with the rival Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and has more 20 years of experience in the Canadian Football League.

Taman sat down with Fine Lifestyles Regina sports columnist Rod Pedersen recently for an interview.

Brendan Taman, General Manager of the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Are you used to that handle yet?

No, I’m not used to it. Not at all! It’s quite an honour to have that role. In mid-January I was interviewing for a job with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, wondering what I was going to do with my life. Now I have my dream job.

Taking over from Eric Tillman, you were handed a list of potential free agents which had over a dozen names on it, most notably star receiver Andy Fantuz. Do you plan to have him back with the Riders in 2010?

The easiest way I can answer that is if he plays anywhere in the CFL in 2010, it’ll be in Saskatchewan. We have an agreement and have secured his services if he doesn’t land anything in the NFL. I’m very, very confident he’ll be with us if he comes back to the CFL. And I’m not aware that he has any NFL tryouts lined up. (Fantuz re-signed with the Riders in mid-February. - Ed.) Also on your plate is the 2010 CFL Draft. Are you making plans for that?

We have the second pick and the fourth pick in the first round, which is a great situa-

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tion to be in. We’re looking at Rams receiver Jordan Sisco. He had a great career at the University of Regina. He’ll be in the mix, but Canadian receiver isn’t a need for us. We may look at defence first.

(Linebackers coach) Alex Smith is in charge of that and has been very successful in the draft over the years, so I’ll leave it the way it has been.

Head coach Ken Miller was named Vice President of Football Operations the day you were hired. How is this all going to work?

There’s been a lot of talk of our management structure since I was hired but it doesn’t change much from the way it worked in Winnipeg. I’m pretty much responsible for getting the players to training camp, the 75 players or whatever it ends up being, and I’ll pretty much have that on my shoulders. Once camp starts, then it’s up to Ken Miller to decide which ones he likes and which ones he doesn’t. Hopefully he likes more, or else I’m in big trouble!

It’s not a big new fan-dangled way of doing things. It’s the way successful teams in this league do things. If you have a GM and coach on a disconnect, you’ll have real problems. Kenny and I have constant communication, and that helps, and it was great to be here for seven months beforehand to get to know each other.

What happens mid-season?

If we get guys hurt, Kenny will come to me and say something like “we need a linebacker” and that’ll be out of the blue, and I’ll have to act fast. Obviously I’ll bring a few guys in and Kenny will decide who he wants. Ultimately he’ll decide who he wants to play, and I’ll support him.

Do you have a vision for how the management will be run by this franchise?

It’s something that Kenny, (team President) Jim Hopson and I discussed before I was hired: we want some sort of progression plan in place in the organization.

That means if I leave in two years, we’d Spring 2010

like to have somebody in place to take over, or an assistant coach ready to replace Kenny. We’d like to have that extra guy here in Regina, and then I think we’d have a pretty good organization.

Where are you going? I thought you’d have this job for 30 years!

Ha! It’s a year-to-year business. You know that!

Actually, at your news conference you used the phrase, “You’ve gotta win” five times, so you know the deal...

Yeah, I know. That’s just part of the business. I was in Winnipeg for 10 years, and that’s abnormal. That’s a long time to be anywhere. Alan Ford was here for 12 seasons and that’s not the norm. It’s good to have a deep bench. It’s good to have good people around you, to know that if something happens, you’re covered. No, I don’t plan to be going anywhere anytime soon, but I’ve been around long enough to know that you need to have good people in your organization.

The New Year started with the loss of your offensive coordinator (Paul Lapolice) to Winnipeg and your offensive line coach (Bob Wylie) to the Denver Broncos. So you have some holes to fill...

Bob Wylie was the best offensive line coach I’ve ever been around. He was phenomenal. The offensive line players will tell you he was by far the best coach they’ve ever dealt with. That was a big loss of a guy who deserves to be in the National Football League. We have a list of guys formulated and we’ll be okay. But whoever’s next will have some big shoes to fill. As for the offensive coordinator’s role, it’s the same thing. There are good people out there. When you have good people, they’re attractive to other teams.

That’s the way it goes.

Thanks for your time Brendan, and good luck!

Okay, thanks! flr

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Scott Albert Corporate/Team Sales Manager

Extreme Hockey & Sport 1425 McIntyre St. (306) 721.8326 www.extremehockey.net

usinesses, corporations and sporting teams take pride in—and spend significant time on—choosing their logos and trademarks to represent them. With today’s marketing, advertising and promoting you want your entity to stand out…to make a statement.

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Our Corporate/Team Sales Division will assist in marketing your company with items that fit your mold. We want to brand your logo or business name just the way you want it. We want to brand your business with the proper brand name. We want your team jerseys, pieces of luggage or golf shirts to stand out, to make a statement about you.

Spring 2010

This does not always mean you have to spend more money. At Extreme Hockey and Sport, you will be given expertise, creativity and advice to assist you in making you and your entity look the best it possibly can.

Extreme takes your budget and stretches it as far as possible so you will receive the best possible marketing tools. To help with this, Extreme has an on-site embroidery machine to help with your timelines.

Our division works with a variety of charity events or fundraisers by consigning assorted price points and themes within sports memorabilia and/or cutting-edge retail products. Our corpo-

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rate experts are available to assist with the silent/live auction. We house and have access to an unlimited stock of unique and limited-edition memorabilia. Whether you are a Crosby, Eberle or Favre fan, we can provide you with unique signed works. One of the limited edition lines we carry is WGA: Wayne Gretzky Authentics.

Whether you need team jerseys, items for golf tournament prizes, coaching jackets and bags or logoed prints of the Masters, Extreme Hockey and Sport will fit your needs...on your budget.

Contact Scott Albert at 721-8326. flr

fine lifestyles regina

Colten Teubert and Jordan Eberle, Regina’s silver sons

Front and centre were two members of the Regina Pats, defenceman Colten Teubert and forward Jordan Eberle, who were both members of the 2009 championship squad in Ottawa. Eberle, of Spring 2010

course, was the hero of that WJHC after scoring the tying goal with just five seconds left in the semifinal against Russia, and scoring once more in a shootout for the victory. The team went on to beat Sweden in the final to keep their championship streak alive.

Training camp for Team Canada this time around was held in Regina in midDecember, and it was to no one’s surprise that Eberle and Teubert were both named as returning players to this year’s squad. In fact both players were named assistant captains for coach Willie Desjardins’ crew.

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Canada never lost a game in its three precompetition games against Sweden, Finland and the Czech Republic, and they breezed through the round robin as well, winning all four of their matches. That allowed them a bye through the quarterfinal round and they easily disposed of Switzerland 6-1 in the semifinals.

The final game It all set up a one-game showdown against their top rivals from the USA in the gold medal game Tuesday, January 5, in front of 15,000 rabid fans in Saskatoon. fine lifestyles regina

PHOTOGRAPHY: GJ PHOT O

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he 2010 World Junior Hockey Championships captivated the nation this past Christmas holiday and for the first few days of the New Year.

Canada’s World Junior hockey team was chasing a record sixth-straight gold medal, and the tournament was held in Saskatchewan, with games split between the Regina Brandt Centre and Saskatoon’s Credit Union Centre.

BY ROD PEDERSEN

PHOT OGRAPHY: GJ PHOT O

The Americans proved to be stiff competition in the clash and their speed and size had the Canadians chasing them all over the ice for most of the game. The sellout crowd at the C.U.C. had little to cheer about all game, and it appeared as though the visitors would romp to victory, as they led 4-2 with just a few minutes remaining.

But Eberle, as he’s done countless times before, rallied Canada to a remarkable comeback, scoring a pair of goals in the final two minutes to tie the game at 4-4 and force overtime. In the process Eberle became the all-time scoring leader for Canada at the World Juniors.

Unfortunately, the clock struck midnight on Canada’s Cinderella tournament when the USA’s John Carlson scored in overtime on a three-on-one break, beating Canadian goaltender Martin Jones for a 5-4 victory and the championship.

Eberle was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.

Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco was so brimming with pride that these two young men call Regina home that he proclaimed Friday, January 8 Jordan Eberle and Colten Teubert Day in the Queen City.

Teubert and Eberle face the press Less than 24 hours after the final game, Teubert and Eberle were back in Regina facing reporters’ questions at a news conference at the Brandt Centre.

“It’s pretty upsetting,” Teubert revealed.

“We were all devastated and it took awhile Spring 2010

to sink in. But before long I was glad to get back with the Pats and get my mind off of it.”

Eberle had a similar feeling of bitter disappointment.

“It’s not what we went there to do,” said the 19-year old Regina product. “Some people would be excited with silver but we’re not. That’s just the way we are.

“It was tough. We were with those guys for almost a month and our goal was to win. But when we didn’t get the bounce to win, it’s tough. It’s crazy how close you get with those guys in a month. That team will never be together again, so to lose like that was tough.”

Eberle’s not used to losing, at least not with Team Canada. However, the Edmonton Oilers’ first-round draft pick was his typically classy self in defeat.

“It seems like we battled back all the time. Give credit to the Americans, because the crowd was against them all night. Once I scored to make it 4-3, there was no doubt in our minds we were going to tie it. It was tough to go into the dressing room for a flood because it killed our momentum. I really believe if we went at it right away, we would’ve won.”

Re-focused on the Pats Once the shock of the loss was behind them, the players’ attention immediately turned to their club team, the Regina Pats. The Queen City Kids struggled with their top players away over Christmas, losing eight consecutive games, and saw their spot in the conference standings plummet.

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“Urgency is a good word,” Teubert reported. “We want a better second half than last year, where we fell apart.”

Indeed the Pats suffered a freefall one year prior, winning only nine of their 36 second-half games on the way to missing the playoffs. Both players vowed not to let that happen again.

“Last year, it was tough,” Eberle reflected.

“The second half of the season was so terrible that you try to forget about it. At the same time, you have to learn from it. We came apart as a team, and we weren’t together. This time around we have to learn from that and do things to keep our game more simple. We have to put the puck in the net. That didn’t happen last year.”

The pair was the centre of plenty of discussion with the WHL’s trade deadline looming January 10, less than a week after their return from the World Juniors.

Pats G.M. Brent Parker was faced with the options of dealing the players off in return for good young prospects to stock the team for the years ahead, or to keep them and try to go deep in the 2010 WHL playoffs.

"We'll go out and play hockey" “As hockey players you can’t worry about that,” Eberle said. “You definitely have no control over it. Honestly, I haven’t even thought about it. We’ll let the guys upstairs make those decisions and we’ll go out and play hockey.”

Teubert agreed.

“We’ve been with this club since we were 15, and it’s been a helluva ride, and I don’t want to change that,” asserted the White Rock, B.C. product. “I want to finish my career here.”

In the end the players got their wish. The trade deadline came and went and despite several attractive offers from other teams, Parker elected to keep the pair with the red, white and blue.

Now the final chapter of their junior hockey careers is theirs to write. flr (Rod Pedersen is the Voice of the Regina Pats on 620 CKRM Radio)

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | sport, recreation and travel

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ike a plant, a sport or business is only as strong as its roots. Extreme Hockey and Sport is about strengthening the roots of sport… and its own roots within its community.

Extreme Hockey

“We’re extremely community-oriented and always pushing the envelope to be the best we can.” says owner Jason Degelman. Extreme Hockey doesn’t do this with its own agenda in mind. “The number-one thing is customer service: your needs are first. We don’t sell to sell. First and foremost, we work with your budget. It doesn’t matter how much money you’ve spent with us, we try to treat all customers equally and provide you with the best service.

BY EDWARD WILLETT

Loved sports since childhood Jason Degelman has been in the industry since 1988 but has loved sports since he was a child. “I grew up in Southey playing fastball and hockey and was a very successful player.” At 16 years of age, he moved to play for the midget Spring 2010

PHOT OGRAPHY: SCOT T ALBE RT

“Number two is giving you the proper fit, utilizing our expertise and knowledge of our product. We aren’t here to make the sale and get you on your way; we don’t want you just one time. We’re looking to build a solid and trusting relationship between you and our team.”

Degelman assures that you are getting proper advice from well-trained staff, not someone from the bicycle, appliance or camping sections…common in box stores. These are the roots of Extreme Hockey’s philosophy.

Strengthening the roots of sport and the community

DUSTIN DUNCAN, MINISTER OF CULTURE AND RECREATION, KID SPORT PRESS CONFERENCE, FEBRUARY 18, 2010

AAA Yorkton Mallers. “I was offered a full hockey scholarship with the University of North Dakota but was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident in May, 1987. That ended my hockey career but 159

definitely not my love of the sport.”

While Degelman was recovering from the accident he was offered employment with Western Cycle. “I worked there for a few years with casts on while I endured fine lifestyles regina

ness-within-a-business that will brand a variety of products with corporate or teams names.” This might include golf shirts, OGIO luggage, pucks, lighters or watches.

“We don’t just sell a team a basic jersey.

We’re always trying to make their brand, name or logos appear the best in our customers’ eyes.” Scott Albert, corporate/ team sales manager, has avenues for name brands and ideas for your company or team. The corporate division of Extreme houses sports memorabilia ranging from low-cost prints to Wayne Gretzky Authentics limited-edition canvas pictures of him and Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe. Extreme Hockey sells memorabilia and also consigns it to charity events for silent and live auctions.

More than just making sales many surgeries,” he says. He traveled to Australia, returning to the store, eventually becoming buyer and manager. In 1996, Degelman relocated to Regina’s newly established Play it Again Sports franchise. He was initially the buyer and manager, but soon became a partner. The franchise eventually evolved into the independently owned Extreme Hockey and Sport.

The store opened its doors and celebrated its grand opening on January 13, 2001. Jason put his love of sport into his career and built a very strong team at Extreme. The store employs on average 30 to 40 employees and focuses on these main categories: hockey, ball, specialty sports/performance moisture-management apparel, and corporate/team sales.

Extreme Hockey is 70-percent hockey and, as a hockey store, Degelman says there are a couple of significant points that set it apart from its competitors.

First is selection. “We carry the top name brands, and the relationships we have with our suppliers are more significant than at other stores,” he says. Degelman often has access to new products first and—more importantly—exclusively.

Degelman points to Graf Canada, “a grassroots company based in Calgary.

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We’re their exclusive dealer in Regina and have had a strong relationship with them since I became a retail owner.” In addition, Extreme carries all of the other hot brands, including Bauer, Easton, RBK, Warrior, Mizuno, UnderArmour, Nike and many others.

Second is the shopping experience. “Our stick department is like walking into the fair! It’s one of the top stick departments in the country…we have selection, and a variety of price points, patterns and models.” Also, the “skate pit” is guaranteed to have a pair of skates that will properly fit your skill level, your price desire and, most importantly, your feet!

That’s the business side of the business.

Lisa Degelman emphasizes that they are about more than just making sales.

“We’re a community company. Having a young family—Hunter is seven and Emersyn is four—we reside in Regina Beach and are a small-town communitydriven family! I volunteer on the preschool board, at the school and with coaching the kids’ sports teams. We’re always involved in local fundraisers …anything to help out. That’s our family and company’s philosophy… to be grassroots or ‘small-town,’ giving back to those that give to us. I have a degree in social work, so this way of doing business is right up my alley!”

Stick, helmet and skate

The Degelmans maintain Extreme as a grassroots company by being involved with Hockey Regina, Sask Baseball, 3-45 Fun Hockey League, Notre Dame College and several First Nations bands.

Similarly, the company is a huge supporter of the Red Cross Anti-Bullying Program and Kid Sport. During November’s Black Friday sale, a percentage of the sales and all donations were given to Cindy Fuchs and her anti-bullying program. In return, Red Cross volunteers helped work the sale.

In the hockey category, Degelman explains that his company promotes the stick, helmet and skate. “Those are the three key products that we sell and we carry them in-depth 52 weeks of the year. We don’t just bring in product for the high times. That is another thing that sets us apart from other stores.”

Extreme Hockey knows its equipment. It also knows how to help teams and companies promote their names. Degelman depicts corporate sales as “a small busi160

Kid Sport recently held its press conferfine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | sport, recreation and travel

ence at the store announcing that it had partnered with Extreme to help acquire sporting equipment for children who do not have it. As well, Kid Sport assists with raising money for helping local families who cannot afford the costs associated with their children being involved in sport. Seventy-two sports kits were just donated to schools in the area. Both Lisa and Jason relish the opportunity to help people in the community tobecome better people and athletes.

Another rewarding form of community involvement is helping those with disabilities play sports. Degelman explains, “We have worked with children with club feet and other physical conditions, people who have lost limbs and large people who have trouble finding equipment to properly fit them. It’s taking a toddler or a senior athlete and providing them with products that assist them in taking their game to the next level. We try to change the negative to a positive and give someone the experience to play sports.”

Pushing the envelope The goal of “pushing the envelope” applies to top-end athletes as well. Extreme Hockey has worked with elite powerskating instructors Liane Davis and Brent Bobyck and has worked with several professional players from the NHL to European leagues to the WHL to university/ college to Midget AAA. “We try to help these individuals perform at their optimum level as well,” says Degelman.

The goal of helping people achieve the next level applies to the company’s employees as well. Managers Jordan Brisebois and Jordan Zaremba provide employees with up-to-date training from the industry; from its sharpening company Blade Master to Graf “school” and product-knowledge seminars given by suppliers’ reps.

Extreme’s team has historically included kids from the University of Regina Cougars men and women’s hockey teams, the Prairie Thunder and Regina Rams football teams, and Notre Dame College.

Spring 2010

Testimonials “Extreme selection, Extreme quality, Extreme service….the Extreme experience! My son is a competitive Bantam level hockey player. I know that I can count on Extreme to have the right gear, at the right price, along with trusted advice from sales staff that play the sport. I appreciate that everything my son needs to play hockey throughout the year can be found at Extreme—the great selection at competitive pricing combined with great service and convenience keep us coming back! Thank you to Jason and the team at Extreme Hockey for making it easy.”

Paula, An Appreciative Single Mom “I have been dealing with Jason Degelman and Extreme Hockey and Sports since its opening days and our relationship goes back at least 20 years. Jason and his staff offer the highest level of service for all ages, whether you are just starting out, a novice hockey player, or an elite AAA player needing the best fit possible. The knowledge of the staff at Extreme is second to none! With me being a professional skating instructor, it is important that I am in the right skate with the proper fit to perform at my highest level day in and day out. I have all the confidence in Extreme Hockey that they keep me at this level. As well, I recommend them to all my clients when they need new product or if they just need ‘good advice’.”

Brent Bobyck, Brent Bobyck’s Power Skating School-Need for Speed “My experience with Extreme Hockey has always been very positive. They have all of your hockey needs and more. It’s by far one of the largest selections of merchandise and level of service under one roof...this surpasses any other large chain. Whether you are buying skates, outerwear or any other sporting equipment, Jason and his staff are always courteous, professional and knowledgeable about their product. All of the staff always make sure that their customers are well taken of.

Fiona Smith-Bell, Member of Canadian national women’s hockey team from 19942002, winning seven international gold medals, including two World Championship gold medals and an Olympic silver in 1998

“Our team is generally well-rounded with experience and expertise,” notes Degelman. “We’ve always encouraged the kids and athletes to complete school and provided part-time employment.”

The company strives to push employees into becoming better for their next position in life, to train them and give them work ethics and values to hand off to their next employer. “Our staff knows we’re usually a stepping stone to get them into their next world. I have had several staff become firefighters, city police, RCMP, accountants, engineers and small161

business entrepreneurs like me!” Degelman exclaims.

This team believes every individual should be given the opportunity to participate: thus the company’s motto, “We fit you like a pro on your budget.” Whether you are a beginner, 14 or 64, Extreme Hockey’s owners and staff will have something for you and your needs…guaranteed. flr Extreme Hockey & Sport 1425 McIntyre St., Regina, SK Ph.306.721.8326 Fax.306.757.8733 www.extremehockey.net fine lifestyles regina

Spring by the numbers

BY FRANCOIS MAGNY

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Books for the cabin

Postcards Never Written

J A N I TA V A N D E V E L D E

Winner of the 2008 Saskatchewan Reader’s Choice Award, this collection of short stories is filled with witty, laugh-out-loud, self-deprecating humour. Ever wondered what it would be like to quit your job and travel around the world? Take this journey across the continents and discover the hazards of baiting great white sharks in the Indian Ocean, getting tossed from a bridge high over the Zambezi River and jumping from a plane while skydiving in New Zealand—all while dealing with bouts of imagined malaria and real spells of gastrointestinal difficulties. These hilarious stories are told with no excuses or apologies, until the sanitized postcards are sent home to the parents. After all, why worry them? This book will make you laugh ’til you cry! Van de Velde lives in Regina and this is her first novel. A portion of proceeds is donated to World Vision to help those less fortunate. For more information and to order the book, point your browser to www.janita.ca.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

STIEG LARSSON

A European bestseller, this modern Swedish family thriller offers a taste of foreign flair but keeps you knee-deep in mystery. You will find yourself immersed in the offbeat world created by the Scandinavian author, already snapped up by a Danish filmmaker and due for a Hollywood rework. You’ll be hard pressed finding a more engaging thriller this spring.

Downtown Owl

CHUCK KLOSTERMAN

The story of a fictional North Dakota town in the ’80s as told by three of its inhabitants. One is obsessed with coffee (and who’s going to pay for the round), the other, freshly arrived, takes to drinking, and the third is wondering why one must get out of bed in the morning. If you’re from a small town, you’ll swear the story is based on your high-school years.

Apartment Therapy

M A X W E L L G I L L I N G H A M - R YA N

Your roadmap to spring cleaning for your house and soul. Sounds too New Age? Just Google “apartment therapy” and you’ll discover a wealth of related blogs and resources devoted to the definitely hands-on phenomenon. The book will also help you focus your home or cabin de-cluttering, just in time for the busy season.

Spring 2010

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fine lifestyles regina

3 Flowers

video games for a spring shower PS3

A game for everyone that costs less than $15 and will make you feel…relaxed. Yes, Flowers will transport you to a Zen place where your only mission is to catch a ride on a breeze and plant flowers. Not so much a game, but rather an experience for the senses. Peaceful soundtrack paired with stunning visuals make for a game that borders on art. The game is a download-only and is available now.

Wii Resort

NINTENDO WII

Like its predecessor Wii Sport, this is the game to bring to a party or family gathering. Take a trip to Wuhu Island and leap into the action. You’ll be hit by a tidal wave of goodness including the best table tennis and archery available on any console. The game comes with a Wii Sensor Plus that attaches to your controller. This tiny plastic sensor adds depth to an already killer gameplay. Wii Resort has made it to the top with this world-beating combo of fun and variety. Available now.

Batman: Arkham Asylum

PS3, XBOX 360 AND PC

Translating super powers from comic book to video game is tricky and rarely successful. The caped-crusader had fallen victim to this trend, but with Arkham Asylum, his dry run comes to an end. The graphics are gorgeous, the story line is well-crafted, the voice acting is bang-on, and most importantly, playing as Batman is rewarding! The Dark Knight’s arsenal of deadly gadgets is at your disposal, with ample upgrades as you progress through the game. Watch for confirmed downloadable content coming for the XBox 360 and PS3.

2 Vagarosa

albums for the road CÉU

Meaning “sky” in Portuguese, CéU is a Brazilian singer gaining momentum since her break-out 2005 long play won her a Latin Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. If you’ve spent too much time at Starbucks, CéU will sound familiar, because the chain played her previous album on repeat from coast to coast. Vagarosa finds CéU staying close to the formula that made her a hit with cool baristas and avant-garde art house types. Successfully mixing ’60s Bossa Nova with current down tempo and even a sparkle of island rhythm, the album’s 13 tracks will make you wish you could board Brazil’s flag carrier and hit Rio in a hurry. Late-breaking news: TAM Airlines is set to join Star Alliance in 2010. Rio, here we come!

Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

PHOENIX

The French band’s second full-length opus is polished, filled with clever songwriting (in English), and catchy: I dare you to play “1901” only once. You will be reminded of The Monkees listening to “Lasso,” and yet you’ll be impressed by how modern the album sounds. One word that keeps jumping to mind while listening to Phoenix is “classy.” So combine catchy tunes, layered arrangements and naughty lyrics and you have a classic in-the-making. Maybe that’s what inspired the title?

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fine lifestyles regina

Let Minard’s Leisure World introduce you to RVing—a lifestyle you’ll love!

Looking for some much needed R&R? Love golfing and/or fishing?

Simplicity is the key

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Ving reconnects you with family and friends. It gives you time away from work—and away from the work at home that always seems to be waiting. There is something about the crackling of a fire, the smell of the barbecue, that instantly relaxes you. With today’s great variety of fifth wheels and travel trailers there is a floor plan and a price range for everyone. Simplicity is the key.

From electric (or “divorce-free,” as we like to call them) awnings, to self-igniting water heaters, electric fireplaces to take the chill off, and slide-outs galore, the new RVs are spacious and beautiful.

Spring 2010

RVing reconnects you with family and friends. It gives you time away from work—and away from the work at home that always seems to be waiting. There is something about the crackling of a fire, the smell of the barbecue, that instantly relaxes you. With today’s great variety of fifth wheels and travel trailers there is a floor plan and a price range for everyone.

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fine lifestyles regina

Simplicity is the key. From electric (or “divorce-free,” as we like to call them) awnings, to self-igniting water heaters, electric fireplaces to take the chill off, and slide-outs galore, the new RVs are spacious and beautiful.

If you want to rough it a bit and keep the budget under control, you can get into one of our Sportsmen Classics for only $8,999. You have a small air-conditioner, a manual awning and only 14 feet, but you can pull it with almost any vehicle and put it in any campsite.

The new Wildcat 31TS gives you huge living space, plus the ability to sleep six without bunk beds. It has two air-mattress hide-a-beds in the living area, a fireplace, under-counter track lighting, and a laminated floor, ceiling and sidewalls for super strength and insulation. The slide-outs have eight seals—unheard of in the industry!— so there is never any leakage. Beautiful atrium windows allow the sunlight to shine in, making it a gorgeous, bright fifth wheel.

Manufactures have really stepped up and made some great lightweight travel trailers for families, featuring Jack-and-Jill bunks with trundle beds for even more sleeping capacity, quad bunks and bunk slide-outs so there is playing area on those rainy days. Not only that, they’re towable by either a half-ton or an SUV. Flagstaff has been in the lightweight RV business since 1996 and focuses only on lightweight units. The company has some of the best innovative designs in the industry, featuring classy interiors, outside camp kitchens, completely enclosed underbellies, and even V-nose designs that make use of every possible inch of space.

Outside cook centres are a huge hit this year. All of us who RV know that you never have enough fridge room—well, now you do! No need to cook inside, either: everything can be done outside.

Outside cook centres are available on bunk travel trailers and bunk fifth wheels.

At Minard’s Leisure World you will find a huge variety of travel trailers, fifth wheels and destination camping models.

You’ll also find the friendliest staff and, most importantly, a sales team with inSpring 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY: JE SSE COVERT-RUT TE N BE RG

finelifestylesregina | sport, recreation and travel

tegrity that will find you and your family the right RV, the one that suits your needs, wants and budget.

Our goal is to have you walking out happy, knowing you’ve made the right choice. flr 169

Minard’s Leisure World 1-877-842-3288 www.minardsleisureworld.com

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | sport, recreation and travel

Adventures in Maritime Quebec GULF OF THE ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY FROM CARILLON NATIONAL PARK

PHOTOGRAPHY: L IN DA AKSOMIT IS

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he young seal bobbed in the water like those appendage-less Little People bathtub toys my kids had played with when they were small. Up and down. Down and up. Invisible hands patted the animal’s dark head and it disappeared beneath the water, only to pop up somewhere else.

The face, black with light freckles, wore a childlike expression of intent curiosity.

No matter how many times I’d watched seals on Animal Planet, I wasn’t prepared for the reality of seeing this young one floating all alone in the dark blue sea of the Gaspé Peninsula.

Behind me, Suzie, my sea-kayaking partner, stopped paddling. “I think he’s here…under us,” she said.

My paddle halted in mid-air—I didn’t want to whomp the poor little seal, even if he seemed to be taunting us in a game of hide-and-seek through the waves.

Spring 2010

BY LINDA AKSOMITIS Anne called from the kayak next to us, “He’s over here now!”

While I hadn’t expected to be kayaking with seals, I soon learned the gray seals are common in Quebec’s Gaspé area, especially where we were in the Cap-auxOs sector with Aube Aventures. This young one, up close, had a personality and was more beautiful than the mature seals I’d seen sunning themselves the day before. Reaching a weight of up to 350 kilograms, the large males had seemed to be just blobs of darkish flesh flopped lazily over rocks to bake in the sun.

A sudden lurch of the kayak, however, soon reminded me to get paddling because a storm was rolling in across the darkening sky—how different this September seascape was to the golden waves of grain fields I’d left behind at home in Saskatchewan!

Behind me, Suzie chanted, “Left, right, 170

left, right,” in an effort to help me maintain a steady rhythm. While the Qu’Appelle Valley is only a few miles away from me, at home I’d never pursued any type of water sports—can’t even swim. So what was I doing in a sea kayak? Well, soaking up the Quebec maritime experience.

Via rail to Percé My journey had begun with a flight into Montreal and a quick tour of the downtown, before checking in at the Via Rail train terminal for my overnight train trip to the very tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, nearly a thousand kilometres away.

I’d taken train trips twice before, both daytime, both long before the modern Via Rail system, so I had no idea of what to expect of my overnight “sleeper.”

Imagine an average-sized table for six, with extra long legs—then imagine a fine lifestyles regina

porta-potty, a miniscule sink, a large fan, hangars and storage bag, an upper storage shelf for baggage, and a reclining chair (the porta-potty serves as the footstool) that folds down into a foampadded made-up bed to curl up on, all stuffed under the table, and you have a sleeper. Actually, except for having to lift the bed up to access the porta-potty in the middle of the night, it all worked amazingly well!

I slept like a baby as the train swayed its way alongside the St. Lawrence Seaway, occasionally waking up for whistle stops.

Both supper and breakfast in the dining car were excellent, so I was able to relax and socialize. And the scenery, once the sun rose, kept me snapping photos until we arrived around noon.

Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park Like other Canadian kids, I’d studied Percé Rock in school, so I was thrilled to find a perfect view from my hotel in Percé. My afternoon tour boat in the Gulf of the St. Lawrence Seaway, however, got me a lot closer to what’s considered to be one of the largest and most spectacular arches in the world. Even more amazing is that this limestone cathedral with a hole through it is around 400 million years old, judging from the marine fossils scientists have found.

Together with Percé Rock, Bonaventure Island forms the provincial Parc national de l’île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé, created in 1985. Hundreds of years ago a fishing port for the colony of New France, Bonaventure Island is now famous as one of the largest bird sanctuaries in the world, with more than 280,000 birds of various species, including Northern Gannets, Atlantic Puffins, Black-legged Kittiwake, and other seabirds.

After a quick tour of the historical park Spring 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY: L IN DA AKSOMIT IS

The sight took my breath away.

fine lifestyles regina

PHOT OGRAPHY: L INDA AKSOMIT IS

Forillon National Park

the large gannet colonies layered along the cliffs above, hundreds of white wings flapping as they flew over our boat.

The hike was uphill, and being a prairie girl, I’m not all that experienced with steep climbs. I needed quite a few breaks, enjoying the beautiful forest around me, through what should have been an easy hike! However, the further I walked, the more it began to feel like home, if not because of the lay of the land, then because of the less-than-fresh-smelling sea air.

Previous page: Top: Linda Aksomitis and Suzie Loiselle in the sea kayaks Centre: Adult seals sunning themselves

I grew up on a farm, and on that farm we had chickens. Chickens that flapped their wings when you opened the hen house door, chickens that pecked at your feet if you stood too long in one spot gathering eggs, and, above all else, chickens that stank.

Bottom: Percé Rock

The gannet colony smelled like one humongous outdoor chicken house!

This page:

I must admit, however, that aside from the smell, gannets were nothing like chickens. The sleek white birds, with tan necks and black tail feathers, spread out before me in a mass I was only used to seeing during migration at home. Startled by our approach, some lifted, launched into flight over the sea, circled, then came back to settle in with friends again, while others engaged in a ritual of flapping and mutual pecking at one another.

Top: Bonaventure Island Above: Sugar Pie

buildings, I was off on an hour hike across the island to visit the world’s largest nesting grounds for the gannets—some 60,000 couples mate and raise their young annually on the island’s rocky shores. On our boat ride, I’d already seen Spring 2010

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I’d planned a hike at Forillon National Park, at the eastern tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, which marks the end of the Appalachian mountains that run south into the United States. However, mists made it too dangerous—and gazing up at what appeared to me to be a straight cliff face, I wasn’t disappointed. The park guide, however, assured me that the path zig-zagged, so wasn’t as bad as it appeared, and that the view was amazing.

Even from the ground, the scenery was spectacular, with dunes and cliffs, forests and rock. Forillon is home to many different animals and birds, including whales, seals, and, in the forest, black bear and moose.

Brome Duck, sugar pie and crepes While Percé is a small community of just over 3,000 people, I found many amazing places to dine and Quebec’s usual delicious food choices. My absolute favourite main dish is Brome duck, which comes from the Brome Lake Duck Farm outside Knowlton, Que. In Percé, I found it at La Maison William Wakeham, on the menu as Brome duck breast, confit leg and a small fruit reduction. It’s ordered like a steak—and just like at many steak houses, if you order it well done, as I did, the waiter will be horrified!

My sweet tooth gets equally pampered in Quebec, with crépes and real maple syrup for breakfast. There’s absolutely nothing tastier than the fine folded crépes I ate in the dining room at my hotel, the Hotel-Motel Le Mirage. And for dessert, Quebec’s Sugar Pie takes the red ribbon when I’m the judge—La Maison du Pêcheur’s was one of the best! flr For more information: Maritime Quebec, www.quebecmaritime.ca/en (all attractions/activities listed in the article are found on this site)

fine lifestyles regina

Chipping in for the cure

BY AMY NELSON-MILE

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is holding its third annual “Chipping In For the Cure” golf tournament on Wednesday, June 16, and everyone, golfer and non-golfer, is invited to participate.

“The focus of the tournament is two-fold,” says Craig Halvorson, Tournament Chairperson. “We want to raise money, certainly, but we also want to raise awareness of the disease and what’s it like to live with the disease.”

To do this, Halvorson says, “We put things into the tournament like having participants check their blood sugar. We also have medical people there to answer questions.”

Although the informational component will certainly be present, Halvorson stresses that “the focus of the tournament is to have fun.

You don’t have to be a great golfer to play.”

The tournament is also an excellent place for support. Halvorson explains that the tournament is good for the family members of those who have recently been diagnosed. “It gives them a chance to meet people who are in the same situation. Most of us there will have children with juvenile diabetes. It’s a good way to hear how others manage and this helps to dissipate the fear.”

Halvorson adds, “With luck people will come out, have fun, learn a little, and go home with a prize. We’ve had some great prizes donated to us.”

The tournaments have been very successful, says Halvorson. “The proceeds have been growing every year.” Last year the tournament raised approximately $31,000, and this year the organizers have set a goal of $35,000. “What we like about the JDRF is that 100 percent of the money that’s raised goes to research.”

Halvorson adds, “We’re still looking for sponsors, and even if people don’t want to golf or can’t make it they can still go to the website and donate.”

For sponsorship information, contact Craig Halvorson (phone 757-3511 craig.halvorson@investorsgroup.com).

Tournament details and registration information can be found at www.jdrfgolf.com. Tournament participants are encouraged to register on-line.

Tournament details and registration information can be found at www.jdrfgolf.com

: T S A C R O F S ’ TODAY .

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Art on wheels

finelifestylesregina | wheels

reat artists have the knack of taking something commonplace and transforming it into something both unique and instantly recognizable. Think of Salvador Dali’s melted clocks, Walt Disney’s mouse—or a jewel-like old Ford coupe or Chevy pickup in a car show.

Regina’s Majestics Car Club

BY BRIAN BOWMAN

There is a combination of tradition, innovation, artistry, refined power and leading-edge technology in well-crafted rods and customs. Rods and customs embody, and symbolize, more than a century of North American car culture. The best of them are rolling works of automotive art. They have awesome presence, and in any gathering of assembly-line vehicles, they rule.

No coincidence, then, that the names of many rod and custom car clubs assume heraldic titles, or that Regina’s premier rod and custom car club is named The Majestics.

Formed in the early ’60s The Majestics Car Club of Regina was formed in 1962, at a time when rods and customs were becoming very popular.

The first clubhouse was an un-insulated, one-car garage, off 10th Avenue in the downtown area.

Two years later, the club moved to a garage on Lorne Street and 14th Avenue and operated from there until 1979, when it moved to its larger, present location at 1790 MacKay St. This building features a work area for several projects, a paint booth and a meeting room.

You can’t just walk in and fill out a membership card for the Majestics Car Club of Regina. For one thing, membership is limited to 25. (It currently stands at 26, but that’s an unprecedented exception.)

Second: you have to possess and build your own rod or custom. It has to be a Spring 2010

PHOT OGRAPHY: COURT E SY OF MAJ E ST ICS CAR CL UB

Cars as art? Absolutely. And whereas some art has to hang out in galleries or stand in the rain, these works of art can carry the family and be driven to the beach. How cool is that?

runner, and it has to meet safety codes.

Moreover, once it has achieved that, it has to meet the even higher standards of the club inspector. That’s no small stipulation, because fulfilling these requirements will involve considerably more effort, artistry and vision than fitting your weekend cruiser with an air dam and a lift kit.

“One thing we do is help one another’s families, too. If there’s a struggle or a need, it’s the responsibility of the club to look after that,” says long-time member, Milt Raddysh. “Our typical member profile is someone interested in vehicles but also in community service. We do give back to the community, so that’s one thing you have to be willing to participate in.”

Giving back to the community

The Majestics are renowned for their unflagging support of the Red Cross, but they also lend a hand to other good causes. As well, they’ve learned that simply appearing with their cars in public can have a positive influence.

There’s a character requirement, too. The Majestics mutually support each other and their families. Club events are generally family affairs, and members commit to a lot of community service.

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“The club occasionally tours to old folks’ homes and to other communities,” says Raddysh. “It’s a nice thing to see these fine lifestyles regina

PHOTOGRAPHY: COURT ESY OF MAJ E ST ICS CAR CL UB

vehicles on your streets and there’s an appreciation for them that brightens people’s days.”

can only guess at what lies beneath these carefully crafted lines, compound curves and deep, lustrous paint jobs.

Inside the clubhouse, members gather round a table in the meeting room every second Thursday evening. The plain, workmanlike room contains an old table and chairs and features a large collage of colour photos in a frame against one wall. These are the club cars, project vehicles owned by Majestics members. Together, they span the entire automotive history of North America, dating from the earliest days of motoring right up to muscle cars from the 1960s. Some bear definite resemblance to the model and brand of their progenitors, others range from mild customs to wild expressions of imagination. All are bona fide rods and customs, and, unless you are told, you

Determining that requires a visit to the club’s work area, where four or five project vehicles are in various stages of construction. Here, once the meeting is over, members roll up their sleeves and busy themselves with frames, suspensions, bodies and drive trains. It’s a scene guaranteed to unsettle a factory-trained automotive technician. Fifty-year-old car frames are being stretched, or shortened, and combined with modern, ancient or modified components from a dizzying mix of brands: Ford differentials with Dodge transmissions and Chevy engines, for instance, or, these days, perhaps, Toyota engines with components from Honda, Nissan and other sources.

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Not just “Little Deuce Coupes” anymore It’s true, admits Raddysh, that hot-rodding has evolved from the early days when everything built was taken from North American brands. Today, project cars based on Asian or European vehicles are becoming more common. To illustrate, he points to one project in the back where the in-line six-cylinder engine from a Toyota Supra is being made over to perform like Mount St. Helens. The new school, he says, is into fuel injection rather than carburetion, and turbos rather than superchargers, whereas the old school is, well, old-school.

“We like carburetors!” trumpets Barry Green. Green is a long time member whose perennial project, based on a 1956

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | wheels

Chevy half-ton, has undergone several makeovers and has won numerous awards over the years.

“Barry is a wizard with metal,” says Raddysh. He opens a photo album to show instances where Green has fashioned headlamp trim from kitchenware, and body panels from refrigerators.

“Fridge metal,” says Raddyish. “It’s the same gauge as a lot of the body metals.

So, we’ve used an awful lot of fridge sides, and things like that.”

And the innovation continues. Inside the paint booth is the body and frame of Kelly Peace’s 1933 Ford, a three-window coupe.

It is painted a glistening black, deep as onyx, and awaiting many, many hours of blocking, by hand, to smooth out any irregularity and make it look about a thousand metres deep. The door frames on the original were partly made from wood, which had deteriorated beyond salvage.

Raddysh points to the revision. It’s made from channel iron, reinforced with a latticework of rebar—out of sight, functional, primed and painted, and infinitely stronger than the original. Typically, the blueprint for this project is in the mind of its creator.

The other members will help, too, because they all share their particular skills. But the result will be original, a rolling work of art and the realization of a personal dream.

See for yourself

PHOTOGRAPHY: CAROL TODD

You can view these automotive triumphs at the Majestics’ 44th Annual Car show, April 24 and 25 at Evraz Place in the Canada Centre Building on the Regina Exhibition grounds. Club cars will be on display, as will entrants from other places.

All will be competing for cash prizes and trophies.

It’s as good for the soul as a trip to the MacKenzie Art Gallery. flr

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For more information on this event, and other Majestics Car Club activities, visit their website at www.majesticscarclub.com. When you do, check their photo gallery of club vehicles.

fine lifestyles regina

T

hey’re cars that evoke excitement...provoke passion...engage emotion. Yet they give up nothing in terms of security, innovation and value. Only one car manufacturer is able to so perfectly balance driving pleasure with practicality: Mercedes-Benz.

It shouldn’t be surprising. German engine designer Karl Benz made the first four-stroke engine in 1885, and produced the first motor car in 1886. The “Mercedes 35-hp,” produced in 1901, is considered the first modern automobile.

And the innovations have continued throughout the company’s history.

Mercedes-Benz put the first front brakes on a car in 1921 and in 1924 produced the first passenger car with all-wheel brakes. The first car designed with aerodynamics in mind was a 1934 MercedesBenz. The safety cage and front/rear crumple zones were Mercedes-Benz innovations in the 1950s, as was the telescopic steering column in the 1960s, three-point safety belts and anti-lock brakes in the 1970s, and airbags in the 1980s.

Rick Ponto, owner, and Dean Meyers, general manager, of Regina’s MercedesBenz dealership are proud of the cars their company offers—and proud, too, that “Mercedes” is no longer synonymous with “unaffordable.”

There are Mercedes-Benz models for any car-buying budget, from the tiny, practical and stylish Smart Cars on up to the flagship luxury sedans. Finance rates start as low as 1.5 percent, and payments as low as $299 a month.

Spring 2010

Mercedes-Benz: The perfect balance between automotive intelligence and an enthusiast’s passion Another option is to opt for a pre-owned vehicle. The Mercedes-Benz of Canada interactive inventory search engine lets you search the country for the car of your dreams, by year, body style, price, mileage and geographical region.

And when you do buy your MercedesBenz, you never have to worry about getting it serviced. Under the management of Cheney Katerynych in the service department and Jason Ponto in the parts department, Mercedes-Benz Regina will keep your dream car running and looking like a dream for as long as you own it.

Among the new innovative offerings from Mercedes-Benz are the all-new Sprinter Vans. There are cargo vans, pasSprinter Passenger Van

senger vans, and cab chassis, each with numerous variants to meet the specific challenges of customers. For example, the cargo vans offer three different lengths, two different heights, and passenger seating for up to six, among other options; the passenger vans’ variants include two lengths, two heights, room for up to 11+1 people, and more; and the cab chassis offer two wheelbase choices and many other optional extras.

So what are you waiting for? Let the Mercedes-Benz Regina website have the last word: “Mercedes-Benz has never been more affordable to own...come down and let our professional and knowledgeable staff assist you in owning your ‘Dream Car’ today!’” flr

Sprinter Cargo Van

Sprinter Cab Chasis

Mercedes-Benz of Regina, 777 Broad Street, Regina, SK Tel: (306) 757-2369, Email: info@regina.mercedes-benz.ca 183

fine lifestyles regina

777 Broad Street, Regina, SK, Tel: (306) 757-2369, Email: info@regina.mercedes-benz.ca

777 Broad Street, Regina, SK, Tel: (306) 757-2369, Email: info@regina.mercedes-benz.ca

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Rubina’s journey Nutritious, authentic Indian cuisine without the fuss

R

ubina Surtie pops the top off the sauce jar and pours the contents into a cooking pot. “It’s easy,” she says. “The point is to be authentic, without the fuss.”

The red Sanskrit lettering of Rubina’s brand marks a two-year journey to make that statement a reality. With three dips or marinades, and three cook-in sauces, she has just begun to see her product appear on supermarket shelves. She knows it’s a long way from being a household word, but she’s come far enough to pause and reflect on the journey.

Surtie moved to Canada in 2001 with her husband, Faizel, and their family. She’s a field-hockey-soccer-and-gymnasticsmom for their four children: Fareea, 22; Farheen, 20; Raeesa, 16; and Faraaz, 11.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARIE POW E L L ME N DE N HAL L

BY MARIE POWELL MENDENHALL

She set out to produce sauces that contained real ingredients with high nutritional value. To get a product that could be bottled, she traveled to Saskatoon to work on her sauces at the Food Centre, often spending days or even a full week there.

Her company, Prairie Spicy Foods (www.psfoods.ca), maintains a Saskatoon address.

She has a proven talent for cooking: she was asked to prepare the Ramadan Feast for the opening episode of CBC’s Little Mosque on the Prairie. To match her modern lifestyle, she wanted to prepare flavourful meals with the authenticity of her Indian and South African heritage, with less time and effort. If she could accomplish that, she knew it would be a viable business idea.

Initially she thought about marketing samosas, one of her specialties, but she realized it wouldn’t be cost-effective. She turned to her tam-chi and fen-chi dips, and applied for Agriculture Canada funding to start a business.

When she was turned down, it only whet her appetite. She asked for more information, and a 10-minute appointment turned into a two-hour meeting.

She began by going through the supermarket and considering where her product fit in terms of category and price.

Where could she visualize her product on the supermarket shelf? She also considered the “price point,” or the point where she could cover all expenses, including production costs and all retailing costs.

“A good product alone is not enough,” she says. “It has to have potential for the retail market. You need to be cost-effective for distributors to take you on.”

Finally she took a revised cost-analysis back to Agriculture Canada, showing she could produce sauces using ingredients from Saskatchewan producers at a competitive cost.

This time she was successful. But obtaining funding was only the first step.

Her products are 100-percent Canadian, including labels and bottling. She found Saskatchewan-grown ingredients such as garlic from as M&M in White Fox and fenugreek spice from Emerald Seeds in Avonlea. She purchases all of her ingredients from Canadian companies, and has an Edmonton company blend the ingredients.

“I knew what tastes I wanted,” she says.

“I knew what the final product would taste like. I wanted something I would cook at home and eat.”

For example, she wanted her sauce to use chili with low heat value on the Scoville heat-unit scale, but with the exact taste she remembered from childhood. Her family helped her source the ingredients.

She traveled to South Africa seeking the right flavours, and her mother brought chili samples on visits to Canada.

Surtie put frozen samples in small plas-

PHOT OGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUTT E N BE RG

Finding the right ingredients

She directed some of her funding to sourcing ingredients so she could recreate flavours she remembered from childhood.

tic bags in an ice-box, and carried them into several Toronto companies in her search to find the right match. Finally, Ecom in Toronto helped her find the flavour she sought.

The challenges didn’t end there. To lower costs, she was advised to use oleoresins, but the taste and smell, as well as the salt, sugar, flavouring, and starch needed to give the sauce volume, outweighed the cost factor for her.

As a result, Rubina’s brand products contain real food, with no oleoresins or artificial flavours or colours. She also pushed for potassium sorbate as a preservative, and worked to use the barest minimum for shelf stability.

Developing her creamy coconut sauce meant overcoming the growth of a pathogen that was hampering shelf life. She Googled articles and made telephone calls to experts, asking questions on the phone.

“It’s amazing how supportive people are,” she says. “They just told me what I needed to know.”

The result was three Rubina’s-brand dips and marinates: Kashmir Tam-Chi, tamarind sweetened with spicy apricot; Kerala Anarosh, sweet-and-spicy pineapple; and Delhi Fen-chi, sweet roasted sesame with Saskatchewan-grown fenugreek.

way. She considered every way possible to produce the sauce, to bottle it, and to ensure shelf-life without cutting corners or lessening the nutritional value of the final product.

She also offers three cook-in sauces: Surat Pasinda-e-Khas (which translates as “this is my favourite”), or coconut curry; Gujarati Tarkari, a sweet-and-sour curry; and Goa Coconut Cream Sauce, a popular creamy and tangy coconut with roasted bell peppers and chili.

Labeling was another challenge. Deciding on a brand name was more difficult than she thought, and she tested her mother’s name and even her children’s names before agreeing to use her own name as the brand. The colours and designs didn’t look the same on her computer as they did on the printed labels.

Even now, she’s not completely satisfied with the results. “It’s a lot of hard work.”

Cost-effectiveness counts “Product development is one step. Taste development is one step. Ultimately, it’s about dollars. Everyone on the chain wants to make money. You need to be able to compete at that level. You need to do your homework really well.”

“You need to be able to stand in front of people and say, ‘This is good food. Try it.’”

The final step is brand awareness

She began to fight for better deals. Since other family members are in business too, she was able to discuss her ideas with them and seek their advice.

Surtie got her first break from Lakeshore Sobey’s in Regina, where the sales manager has been very supportive. She started by doing a demo in the store, and response was positive enough to place her product onto the shelf.

She went to the store owners to negotiate, and she appealed to them to help her make her idea work in a cost-effective

Rubina’s brand also sells locally at Zellers and the Bay, and she is working on Western Canadian distribution. Getting onto

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store shelves is like getting a piece of prime real estate, she says, but the position has to be maintained through sales.

To date, she has traveled to 12 trade shows and demos across Western Canada. By presenting the product herself, interacting with demonstrators as much as possible, she has raised awareness and increased sales.

“I have through all of this made some amazing friends and met some amazing people,” she says, adding, “I’m doing this because this is what I want to be doing and this is what I enjoy.”

Her family is very supportive. During January, she spent less than a week at home; between October and December she lived on the road at trade shows, promoting and selling her product, and Faizel took over the household. “This wouldn’t happen without him. He was the one that made sure things worked at home.”

At trade shows, she will make up gift baskets for people, and establish communications so she can send them recipes and information.

“I respond to all emails,” she says. “You can’t do this on your own. You have to rely on the goodwill of people.” flr

fine lifestyles regina

Sirois Law Firm, P.C. Matt M. Sirois, L.L.B. 2424 College Avenue (306) 585.6288 siroislaw@sasktel.net anada remains a top destination for immigrants looking for a new beginning; a new start in a place where an immigrant family is provided with an opportunity to live within the generous confines of a world-class safety net, and can benefit from an above-average standard of living. Saskatchewan is finding itself to be one of the top Canadian destinations for newcomers. Indeed, immigrantserving organizations such as the Regina Open Door Society have witnessed phenomenal growth in the last couple of years in order to assist new Canadians.

C

Immigration Law itself is as vast and intricate as any other type of law. The following are several reasons why you could benefit from obtaining assistance from an Immigration lawyer.

When do I need a lawyer? I am often approached for assistance on immigration files part

business

EXPERT ADVICE

IMMIGRATION LAW way through the completion of a given file. It is easier to build the theory of a case before the initial application is completed and submitted.

Obtaining legal advice at the outset can offer important guidance on the best direction for a particular immigration dossier. In addition, clients are not always aware of how to answer some of the questions asked by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). The legal practitioner ensures that the questions are understood and drafted clearly so as not to confuse those reviewing and deciding upon the merit of the applications.

Choosing the best option. Often times, clients have numerous immigration options available to them. The immigration lawyer will provide guidance in deciding on the best way to proceed by weighing the pros and cons of each option. I’ve been approached numerous times by clients who have completed applica-

tions on their own, only to find out that they could have saved months and even years in processing time had they been properly advised.

Familiarity with statutes, regulations, policies and practices. The laws governing the immigration process are continually changing and this alters how one approaches a particular file. The procedural requirements may also be different depending on the country of application. On this note, an Immigration Law practitioner should be in a good position to discuss the current state of immigration laws in Canada and the impact they will have on your particular dossier.

In my practice, I’ve had the privilege of representing new Canadians. Their stories are telling and they provide insight into how fortunate we truly are to live in this country. flr

Christine Hansen Chad Associate Olive Waller Zinkhan & Waller LLP

FAMILY LAW here are many different ways a couple can structure and define their relationship.

Some couples want to marry and make a legal commitment and some want to live together but do not want a formal marriage ceremony. Some couples blend their finances and property while others keep property and finances completely separate. For some couples the physical elements of a relationship are essential while other couples may place a higher value on companionship. Some spouses live in the same house while other couples do not reside in the same house or country for long periods of time. Some couples enjoy public displays of affection while other couples prefer to keep demonstrations of affection private.

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The legislation in Saskatchewan attempts to acknowledge and embrace these differences in relationships. The difficulty, however, lies in how best to define a spousal relationship to include all of the different styles of relationships, while still respecting the differences.

In 2001 Saskatchewan made changes to some of its legislation to expand the definition of “spouse” to include not only married couples but also couples, either same sex or opposite sex, who were living together as spouses. I often have clients ask me, “How long do two people have to live together to be considered a spouse?” The answer: “It depends.” It is not possible to advise when a person becomes a “spouse” without knowing that person’s particular circumstance.

The definition of spouse varies from province to province and even from statute to statute.

The devil is in the details The word “spouse” is referred to in more than 95 Saskatchewan statutes, fewer than 50 of which specifically define “spouse” or “commonlaw partner.” Those statutes that do define “spouse” do not always use the same definition.

While some aspects of the definition of “spouse” may at first glance appear to be the same or very similar, often the definitions of “spouse” will Spring 2010

have variations that can greatly impact the determination of “who is a spouse?”. To ensure you have the proper definition of “spouse” you must refer to the specific governing legislation that relates to your issue or consult a lawyer. I will briefly highlight a few of the frequently used definitions of “spouse.”

The Homesteads Act protects the rights of the spouse not registered on title of a family home or property. This statute requires a “Non-owning Spouse” to consent in writing to any sale or refinance of the property where they live but are not registered on title. The Homesteads Act defines “spouse” as two legally married persons or two persons who are cohabitating with each other as spouses continuously for a period of not less than two years. Unlike the definition of spouse in other legislation, for the purposes of this statue you are still a “spouse” who is required to consent to a sale of property if you were living together for at least two years but have separated if that separation occurred within the last 24 months of the sale or refinancing.

The Family Property Act (FPA) is the Saskatchewan statute that entitles a spouse to an equal share and distribution of all of the assets that have been acquired either individually or jointly during the course of the spousal relationship. At first glance the definition of “spouse” in the FPA appears to be the same as that stated in The Homestead Act. Upon further review, however, it will be noted that the definition includes an individual to whom you are legally married or with whom you have entered into a relationship in good faith with the intention to be legally bound (whether or not that marriage is considered valid in Canada), or with whom you have been cohabitating continuously for a period of not less than two years. This would allow individuals who marry in a ceremony outside of Canada and then later discover that such marriage was not recognized in Canada to still be considered spouses.

The Family Maintenance Act, 1997 (FMA) outlines the provision of child and spousal support 192

in a common-law relationship or relationships not governed by the federal Divorce Act. The Divorce Act relates to individuals who are legally married. If you were legally married but obtained a Certificate of Divorce and want to enforce or alter the child or spousal support payable you would have to do so under the FMA. All provinces have legislation similar to Saskatchewan’s FMA but the definition of spouse in each province can vary. The definition of “spouse” in the Saskatchewan FMA takes the definition set out in the FPA and adds two further groups of people, the first being persons who were legally married and have received a Certificate of Divorce and the second being those who have cohabitated with each other at some point in a relationship of “some permanence” and have a child together but did not live together for two years.

Believe it or not, some statutes are even more vague in their definition of “spouse.” For example, The Adoption Act and The Change of Name Act define a “spouse” as someone who you are legally married to or with whom you have been “cohabitating as spouses.” There is no indication in these statutes whether you need to be living together for a specific period of time before you will be considered a spouse at law.

In legislation such as Saskatchewan’s The Automobile Accident Insurance Act, The Coroners Act, The Dependents Relief Act and The Fatal Accidents Act, the definition of “spouse” includes two individuals who are legally married, or with whom you have been continuously cohabitating for two years, but also provides a time limit for individuals who are parents of a child, either biologically or adopted parents, and includes these individuals as spouses if they cohabitated for least one year.

Confused yet? Wait, there’s more...

Under The Workers Compensation Act, to be considered a common-law spouse or spouse you need to “maintain” a spouse for a period of fine lifestyles regina

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at least one year, unless you are the parents, biological or adopted, of a child together, in which case you will be considered a spouse if you have been living together for less than one year. The statute further requires you to cohabit as spouses and be known in the community as spouses before you can be considered spouses for the purposes of that legislation.

Under the federal and provincial Income Tax legislation two individuals only need to be cohabitating as spouses at the relevant time and not living separate and apart due to marital breakdown for longer than 90 days to qualify for benefits or tax deductions and in some cases be deemed beneficiaries under a pension plan.

Under the federal Old Age Security Act and legislation governing certain pension plans, you are required to cohabit as spouses continuously for a period of at least one year.

So can one simply say that a spouse is someone to whom you are legally married, or with whom you have been living continuously for a period of at least two years? Or are you a spouse after one year? Well, the typical answer you will receive from lawyers in Saskatchewan will be “it depends.”

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To add further confusion to this issue, not only do the definitions differ, but within each definition is a word or phrase that can be interpreted in a number of different ways. For example, under the FPA, what is considered an example of cohabitating “continuously” together as “spouses” for a period of not less than two years has a variety of interpretations.

Consider the following scenarios derived from reported court cases (the names have been altered, and any potential reference to a specific individual is purely coincidental): Are “Bo” and “Mary” spouses if they lived together for 29 months but during that time “Mary” moved out of the home for a few weeks each and every time she and “Bo” fought? Are “Jane” and “Tom” spouses if “Tom” and “Jane” lived together for 4 years and then “Jane” learned that “Tom” was married to “Sue” but never officially divorced?

If “Sue” now applies to the Court for a division of property, where does that leave “Jane”? If “Bill” and “Lori” were living together in a conjugal relationship for five years and then “Lori” learns that “Bill” is really “Betty,” was their relationship a spousal relationship? Upon “Ted’s” passing, who would inherit his estate: his common-law spouse of six years. or his ex-wife of

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17 years whom he “never got around” to divorcing?

These scenarios highlight the difficulty in determining when you are a “spouse.” flr This article if for information purposes only and is not intended to replace situation-specific legal advice.

Please consult a professional advisor before taking any action based on the information contained in this article.

Christine Hansen Chad is an associate at the law firm of Olive Waller Zinkhan & Waller LLP. Christine’s practice focuses largely on family law matters, wills and estates and civil litigation.

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manager, Sylvia Heidt, decided to adopt families at their own school, because 90 percent of those attending are in need.

Though the amount has risen to $200 to $250 per family now, this past year they were able to assist 15 to 17 families with the generous assistance of others, for which Ken is especially thankful.

Generous local businesses

PHOT OS BY J UDIT H SILVE RT HORN E

The staff at Bennett Dunlop Ford collected $200 in the first year and now donates $1,000. This year Rhoda Keil from Rhoda’s Elegance Again also donated to this cause when one of her consignment customers didn’t want any return from her clothes. Rhoda, who gives to many charities, used the proceeds and added some of her own funds, then contacted Wal-Mart, which matched the initial $500, donating another $2,000 at the grand opening of its new supercentre in February.

Ken Stephen A custodian with a big heart B Y J U D I T H S I LV E R T H O R N E

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hen Ken Stephen became the custodian for St. Luke School in north central Regina in 1997, he had no idea the extent his caretaking role would take in shepherding the fluctuating flock of 100-plus students.

Though he’s always had a big heart and generous spirit, it’s obvious that the positive connections he has with the students will impact them throughout their lives.

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Some of Ken’s extracurricular work started with the Z99/Salvation Army Adopt-aFamily program at Christmas. The school decided to do this as a project and as a way to teach the kids about giving back. To raise funds, Ken and the staff baked treats and sold them to the kids for 10 to 25 cents apiece. The first time they raised $150 per family and were able to help two families. The next year, Ken and the office 194

Some years ago Ken also worked parttime at St. Gregory School, where he started his habit of collecting leftover runners. From whatever wasn’t claimed at the end of the year, he chose the better pairs and personally cleaned them up to look as new as possible. He distributed these the following fall for those students without any gym sneakers or indoor shoes. He’s continued this tradition over the years at St. Luke’s, adding winter mitts to his collection. The school also has a little money set aside to buy runners on sale to have on hand for those in need. Sylvia takes care of these purchases, along with the grocery shopping.

She and Ken are part of a team, and any staff member who has time pitches in to help with things like the food preparation or taking care of answering the phones when Sylvia is at her volunteer post over lunch time. Board members and families are also invited to share meals with the students for four major holidays: Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter and Shrove Tuesday. The whole school becomes involved making decorations for these special occasions, and a team of staff supervises a chosen classroom in decorating the gym. fine lifestyles regina

In his spare time and during breaks from his employment at the school, you’ll find Ken in the gym shooting baskets or kicking soccer balls with the older kids, or playing floor hockey with the younger ones. That is, if he’s not in the kitchen helping to prepare lunch for the citywide students from kindergarten to high school at St. Luke’s.

Ken’s full-time work day starts at 6 a.m. and he’s there until 5 p.m., with a morning break from 10 to12, which is when he helps prepare meals. On Wednesdays there are always hot lunches for the students. Sometimes it’s soup and sandwiches, but every other Wednesday one classroom picks a menu and the students and their teacher work together with Ken and Sylvia to prepare the meal, serve it and clean up afterwards. Luckily they have a grant to help pay for the food served on these days. Mondays and Fridays, Chili for Children comes in with hot meals. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Ken sells foods basically at cost for the kids to heat up in the microwaves—things like pizza pops and noodle bowls—along with chocolate milk and other beverages.

Ken also teaches the youth to have pride in their school, and it shows. He says 95 percent of the high-school students now take off their shoes when they enter the building, which is rare for teen students.

The youth of all ages also help Ken with moving tables or whatever; though he constantly gets them involved, it’s not a way to get out of classes, but a learning experience of another kind. “I don’t fool around with them,” he says. “If they don’t want to help, I send them back to the classroom.”

Every once in a while Ken will buy treats, like five dozen drinks to distribute in the classrooms as thanks to those kids for helping him with tasks and taking off their shoes. Those who don’t get any quickly learn what they need to do to be rewarded.

Ken spends incredible amounts of time with the students, making connections, developing relationships and setting posi-

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PHOT OS BY J UDIT H SILVERTHORN E

Teaching youth to have pride

tive examples for them. Through his actions and the activities at the school, the students learn to share, to help and give back, and to respect one another.

In typical generous style, Ken says he 195

wouldn’t be able to do any of this without good staff, students and friends. “We’re a big team, and that’s all there is to it.” flr

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Grant Karst CLU CHFC Certified Financial Planner

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EXPERT ADVICE

INVESTING

Why do so many investors do exactly the wrong thing at the wrong time?

Why did so many investors take money out of the equity markets in the last quarter of 2008 and the first quarter of 2009, when the market was at its lowest point? Why were many investors reluctant to add money to their equity mutual fund RRSP in January and February 2009 when the market was offering discounts of 40 to 50 percent?

Why did a large percentage of investors miss the significant market rally in 2009? Why are thousands of investors still sitting on the sidelines in Money Market funds waiting for a “sign” that it is time to get back into the market? Why will thousands of investors jump back into the market again after it has increased in price by 20 percent or more?

Why do people clamor for sales when they buy everything except investments? Why do investors repeatedly sell what has decreased in price and buy what has increased in price? Why do most investors receive a fraction of the market returns?

Why is this investing stuff so difficult to get right?

Why? Because we are hardwired to fail at investing.

Before I go any further, I want to acknowledge that there is a small percentage of the investing public that these comments do not apply to.

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These individuals have managed to override the hard-wiring affecting most of us, and consistently make sound, objective decisions about their investments. They don’t always make the right calls, but their batting average is good enough to produce positive long-term results.

O.K., let’s get back to why investors behave badly.

Behavior scientists have identified many reasons to explain investor behavior, but the two biggest emotional culprits which sabotage our decision making are fear and greed. It isn’t simply that these emotions are so powerful, but that they unfortunately they have an unequal effect on us.

The fear of loss is estimated to be two to three times stronger than the euphoria of gain or profit.

Consequently, the emotional effect of a 10-percent loss is not equal to a 10-percent gain. The loss feels like a 20- or 30-percent loss, so panic sets in. The 10-percent gain satisfies our greed motive but does not have enough staying power to offset the panic when it sets in.

To compound the problem there is “free” advice from colleagues and family, plus the media, focused on sensational negative events. It is no wonder that investors start selling low and buying high and wonder why they can’t make any money!

I have long ago given up trying to change this emotional hard-wiring. Instead, I have accepted that investors behave irrationally, and developed an investment-planning process which recognizes as a central theme that investor behavior will have the largest bearing on the success of the investment program. Unlike many investment-planning processes, mine does not start with researching rates of return, MER (management expense ratios), volatility, investing styles, market trends, interest rates, etc. Instead, I focus on the investor—not the investment.

First we have to know why an individual is investing. It sounds straightforward, but this is often overlooked, or it is assumed that everyone wants to invest in the market.

Many years ago I asked a client who had several hundred thousand dollars invested in GICs why he wasn’t taking advantage of higher potential 200

returns and better tax treatment of the returns by investing in equities. His answer: “Because I don’t have to. I can’t spend the money I’m making now, so why should I complicate things?”

If investors are gong to stick with an investment plan, they have to have a strong underlying reason for doing so. If they do not, the first sign of adversity, i.e., a bear market, will make them question their plan.

Our process is called Blue Sky Planning. It involves an optimistic visualization of an individual’s financial future as it pertains to his or her family, career/business, retirement and estate.

One or all of these areas will answer the question “Why are you investing?” This discussion will also tell us how much the investor will need, which in turn tells us what kind of a return he or she needs to receive.

Once we understand why an individual is investing, we move on to the next question: “What kind of investment strategy will give you the best chance of avoiding the typical investor mistakes caused by fear and greed?”

For some investors, simply recognizing the unequal power of these emotions, along with coaching from their advisor, is enough to provide a framework to keep the plan on track. Often, having a diversified portfolio with automatic rebalancing minimizes the emotional extremes.

Others are willing to pay for guarantees and downside protection. For some, having part of their investments in safe, simple products allows them to invest some of their money in the market and deal with the volatility.

We always emphasize that there are no right or wrong products, but there are products that are right for the investor.

Just because most of us are hardwired to fail at investing does not mean our investment strategy has to fail. If we know why we are investing, and have created an environment conducive to good investor behavior, we can enjoy not only reaching our investment targets but also the journey along the way. flr fine lifestyles regina

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BUILDING PORTFOLIOS

Navigating portfolio risk B Y D A R R Y L J . YA S I N O W S K I , C FA , C M T

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ver the past several years financial market volatility has increased dramatically and with that so has “risk.” In an economy in which defined contribution plans have become more commonplace and individuals are assuming a greater degree of responsibility for their own retirement future, the importance to managing market risk cannot be overstated.

Since 1984, the S&P/TSX Index, a measure of equity market (stock market) performance, has had an average rate of return of 7.9 percent (excluding dividends) with a corresponding standard deviation of approximately 16.4 percent.

The greatest annual gain, 30.7 percent, was seen in 2009, and the greatest annual decline of 35.0 percent was in 2008. During this same 25-year period the S&P/ TSX experienced 18 positive years, seven negative years and four years in which the index experienced an annual decline of 10 percent or more!

To effectively manage investment risk, you must understand what risk is, how it is measured, the impact it can have on the long-term performance of your portfolio, and finally, how it can be minimized.

Defining risk In short, risk can be defined as the probable occurrence of an unexpected event.

In the financial markets, risk is measured as price volatility.

To measure volatility, an investor can use standard deviation (SD) which measures historical price volatility. For example, as noted above, the past 25 years has seen a SD of 16.4 percent, meaning annual returns can be expected to fluctuate + or – 16.4 percent most of the time. Although Spring 2010

past performance does not guarantee future performance, it can provide an indication of the price volatility an investor should expect from a particular investment.

In addition to sleepless nights, large price fluctuations can have a significant impact on the performance of your investment portfolio. Specifically, large negative declines have a greater influence on the value of your portfolio than do gains of equalsized percentages. For investors with a short time horizon, price fluctuations such as these can significantly alter personal financial plans.

The following example illustrates this point. Assume an investor has $1 million invested at the beginning of 2008. If the investor had experienced a 30-percent loss, he or she would have seen their portfolio decline to $700,000. Assuming the investor remained fully invested in 2009 and experienced a 30-percent gain, he or she would have seen their portfolio increase to $910,000. The investor is still down $90,000, or nine percent!

reduce or eliminate “systematic” risk, which is the overall market risk.

To reduce or manage market risk an investor needs to incorporate strategies focused specifically on market risk. These include strategies such as adding portfolio insurance (options), purchasing securities which have a “negative correlation” (an expected price movement which moves in an opposite direction to existing investments), and exercising discipline with regard to the buying and selling of individual securities.

In conclusion, effectively managing portfolio risk is not as simple as just allocating your assets between stocks and bonds. To protect your investments and your financial plans, an investor must actively manage all types of risk, be they unsystematic or systematic risk. flr Darryl J. Yasinowski is a Vice President & Portfolio Manager with Mackie Research Capital Corporation. The opinions, estimates and projections herein are those of the author and may not reflect that of Mackie Research Capital Corporation. The information and opinions contained herein have been compiled and derived from sources believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty, expressed or implied, is made as to their accuracy or completeness.

Protecting your portfolio So how can investors protect their portfolios from large price fluctuations? Investors should first and foremost structure their portfolio with risk in mind, and know the potential downside risk they could experience. SD is a good start.

Next, begin to adjust the expected risk level.

Diversification, the act of adding additional investments from various asset classes, industries, etc., is most commonly cited as a means to reduce risk, but it is often misunderstood. It does have the effect of reducing risk, but its main effect is to reduce “unsystematic” risk—in other words, risk associated with a specific investment. It does not 202

Darryl J. Yasinowski, CFA, CMT Vice President & Portfolio Manager Mackie Research Capital Corporation P: 306.566.7555 T: 866.471.7550 E: dyasinowski@mackieresearch.com www.darrylyasinowski.com

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Charlie Baldock, CA KPMG (306) 791.1204

business

EXPERT ADVICE

FINANCIAL PLANNING

he deadline for 2009 tax-deductible RRSP contributions may be past, but it’s never too soon to look forward to the next deadline and weigh the advantages of taxassisted savings plan options.

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Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSA) and registered retirement savings plans (RRSP) can offer significant tax benefits for your investment savings. Although the current $10,000 TFSA cumulative contribution limit is relatively small, as it grows over time, these plans should become a more significant component of your retirement and savings plan.

What’s your best bet? Ideally, you should maximize your contributions to both types of plans. If you do not have enough funds, the answer may depend on differences between your current tax bracket and the one you expect to be in when you start withdrawing your retirement funds.

RRSPs By investing in an RRSP, you agree to put some of your salary or self-employment income away and not have immediate access to it. In exchange, the tax system will tax that income— along with all the interest and other income it earns—when it is received, rather than when it is earned.

While your funds are in the RRSP, they are not subject to tax, which can lead to significant tax Spring 2010

savings, depending on your marginal tax rate.

Generally, if your income is taxed at the top rate (i.e., about 44 percent, depending on your province), your RRSP deduction will create current tax savings of about 44 percent of the amount you contribute.

Three factors limit the amount you can contribute to an RRSP: a dollar limit ($21,000 for 2009, $22,000 for 2010); a percentage of the previous year’s “earned income” (18 percent); and your pension adjustment, which represents the deemed value of pension contributions made by you and your employer in the year.

Contributions to an RRSP are deductible for any given year if they are contributed in the year or within 60 days after the end of the year. So if you contributed by March 1, 2010, you can get a deduction for your 2009 tax return.

TFSAs While a TFSA is a tax-assisted savings account that is generally allowed to hold the same qualified investments as an RRSP, a TFSA is more like an RRSP’s mirror image: RRSP contributions are tax-deductible but the contributions and investment earnings are taxed when you withdraw them. TFSA contributions, which can include investments you already own, are not tax-deductible, but withdrawals of contributions and investment income are tax-free.

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You can contribute up to $5,000 per year to a TFSA, as long as you are 18 or older and resident in Canada, starting with 2009, the first year TFSAs were available. This year, if you have made no contributions to date, you could have contributed $5,000 for each of 2009 and 2010, for a total of $10,000. You can carry forward unused contribution room indefinitely, just as with an RRSP. Assuming you have contribution room, it almost always makes sense to invest in a TFSA if you have money sitting in a bank account earning taxable interest.

You can make a tax-free withdrawal from a TFSA at any time. When you make a withdrawal, the amount withdrawn is added to your contribution room in the next year and can be re-contributed in the future. Investment income earned in your TFSA works the same way.

In addition, TFSAs can be maintained for your entire lifetime, whereas RRSPs must be wound up when you reach age 71.

Which investment vehicle is best suited for you?

Generally, your decision to invest in either a TFSA or a RRSP should depend on your expected tax bracket when you start withdrawing your retirement funds.

If you expect your future income to fall into the same tax bracket as your current income, the tax benefits of a TFSA and an RRSP will be similar. That is, the value of the tax deduction for an RRSP contribution will generally equal the value of withdrawing funds tax-free from a TFSA. If you expect your future income to fall into a lower tax bracket than your current income, an RRSP investment can provide a tax advantage because the tax deduction you get today will be more than the tax you will eventually pay when you withdraw the money from your RRSP. If your income falls into a lower tax bracket now but you expect it to be higher in the future, a TFSA offers a greater tax benefit because you would pay a higher tax rate on RRSP withdrawals than you would pay today on the income you contribute to the TFSA. flr

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Troy Edwards RBC Securities Inc. troy.edwards@rbc.com

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EXPERT ADVICE

RETIREMENT INCOME RRSP contributions. There are no specific criteria related to the salary of the individual establishing the IPP; however, the financial advantages of an IPP increase relative to the salary.

IPPs, sanctioned by the Canada Revenue Agency, define the pension benefit in advance based on income and years of service. An actuarial formula is used to calculate annual contributions funding the pension benefit.

Savings and tax benefits: a match made in retirement heaven

or those who want to put money aside for retirement and enjoy tax savings too, most people would recommend a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). But there’s another option that allows some business owners greater advantages: an Individual Pension Plan (IPP).

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While there’s nothing wrong with an RRSP, an IPP is a way to potentially contribute more money on a tax-sheltered basis—sometimes substantially more—than the maximum allowed for RRSPs.

Get to know the Individual Pension Plan An IPP is an employer-sponsored registered pension plan that offers potentially higher taxdeductible contributions for the corporation than an RRSP. Unlike a regular pension plan, an IPP is usually established for just one person. In some cases, a spouse employed by the same company can also be a member of the IPP. IPPs are ideally suited for self-employed incorporated business owners or professionals who want to boost their retirement savings. You may benefit from an IPP if you are age 40 to 71, earn significant annual income—greater than $100,000 at least—and have maxed out your Spring 2010

All IPP contributions made by a corporation on behalf of an individual are fully tax-deductible to the corporation. For the individual, an IPP is treated as a non-taxable benefit—which means tax savings all around.

There are other benefits. Setup, maintenance, and management fees are also tax-deductible to the corporation. And, in some cases, companies can make additional contributions for past service, as far back as 1991.

An IPP is not a liquid investment; its contributions are generally locked-in and cannot be withdrawn for any reason other than the payment of benefits. At the termination of the IPP, you can transfer the amount to another registered retirement savings product or use it to purchase an annuity.

Though IPPs aren’t as well-known as RRSPs, they’re growing in popularity. And with the tax savings and dynamic retirement savings potential, it isn’t hard to see why.

If you think you could be doing more to save for retirement than the traditional RRSP allows, and would like to use a broader solution to encompass the needs of your business as well, learn more about an IPP today.

Contact your advisor to learn about this strategy, and other ways you can plan for the future while reducing taxes today. flr Disclaimer: This article is supplied by Troy Edwards, an Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. Member CIPF. This article is for information purposes only. Please consult with a professional advisor before taking any action based on information in this article.

Troy Edwards can be reached at troy.edwards@rbc.com.

The IPP: Benefits and key points at a glance Compared to an RRSP, the main advantages of an IPP include: • Higher tax-deductible contributions at certain ages (40 and older); • Large tax-deductible contributions for past service; • Tax-deductible “top-up” contributions when the IPP is in a deficit; • Tax-deductibility of fees, including investment management fees, as a business expense.

While an IPP offers several important advantages versus an RRSP, there are some considerations: • In most provinces, the IPP is locked-in and continues to be locked-in at retirement; • An actuarial valuation is required every three or four years, depending on the province; • Annual administration fees are higher than the fees to administer an RRSP.

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EXPERT ADVICE

FARM INSURANCE rotecting your farm from the unexpected can be a daunting task. Having proper insurance is important, but not knowing how insurance companies view the property associated with a farm can leave someone thinking they have coverage when actually they may not.

Most farmers will make the assumption that the farm-tool coverage on their farm insurance policy will cover all the contents located in their farm outbuildings. This is not the case, and most farm customers will have thousands (or perhaps tens of thousands) of dollars of uninsured property located on their farm if a tool floater is all they are carrying on their insurance policy.

Items like spare parts, chemicals and farm supplies will not be covered by a tool floater. Although some of these items may seem trivial, a large loss affecting all these items could add up

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Bill Allen, CFP Sun Life Financial 306-757-8631 ext 2251 Fax 306-359-7447

nyone living beyond age 65 will own some responsibility to pay for their own care as they age. Unless they’re properly protected, that may mean spending their savings or liquidating assets (like their homes) they might have planned to pass on to the next generation. With rising costs and greater life expectancy, we could very well outlive our assets and our kids just might have to pay for us.

The Conference Board of Canada projects that by 2020 per-capita spending on health care will increase by 58 percent, while actual health care costs will almost double (increasing by 83 percent), and estimates that the cost per person of providing health care to aging baby-boomers alone will rise from today’s $1,063 to $6,718—adjusting for inflation and technological advances that prolong life.

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to a substantial amount of money. Many insurance companies have developed special endorsements to cover all contents located inside farm outbuildings; however, these endorsements are new to the industry and are not included on policies unless requested.

An example of a situation that can leave a farm insurance customer uninsured is using farm equipment for “commercial use,” as defined by the insurance company: for example, if a farmer helps a neighbour by using his high-clearance sprayer to spray the neighbour’s land. Even if the farmer with the sprayer is not receiving compensation for helping his neighbour, there is a really good chance the sprayer will not be covered should something unexpected happen. Worse yet, there would be no liability coverage for damage to an adjacent field caused by spray drift.

Shaun Folden, BA, CAIB Harvard Western Insurance sfolden@harvardwestern.com

781-2263 Another important coverage is firefighting expenses. Firefighting expenses are charges levied against a property owner if a local fire department responds to a fire on the property. Rural residents should inquire at their local municipal office whether these charges will apply to their local area. Another consideration is how many fire departments could respond to a fire on their property and how much each department charges to attend a fire. This information can then be used to assess the amount of coverage required for firefighting expense.

The best way to avoid these and other problems with farm insurance is to have an insurance broker visit your farm site to help you assess your needs. As a full-service insurance brokerage with five locations in the Regina area, the professionals at Harvard Western Insurance would be happy to help. flr

business

EXPERT ADVICE

INSURANCE With current private nursing home costs in the $1,500 to $6,000-per-month range, the magnitude of this looming crisis, in light of the difficulties currently faced by the health-care system, raises many doubts about any government’s ability to provide care for everyone who will need it. Also, there is the question of a public funding shortage as the bulk of taxpayers reach retirement.

Long term care insurance (LTCI) offers a defensive strategy to preserve and even create assets and quality of life when a serious disability situation arises.

Some LTCI plans pay claims directly to the client, so you can use the money for any service or expense beyond what the government and your current disability insurance covers for 205

as long as you live. However, some LTCI plans will only recoup a portion of the money spent on needed care. Talk to your financial advisor about what works best for you.

We need to ask ourselves, “Who will provide the care and supervision we will all need if we live long enough?” The best solution is to not completely rely on the government. Put your own plan in place! There is a good chance that this will be the largest expense you face in your lifetime.

Remember, the problem has not really hit yet!

It will be another 10 to15 years until the babyboomers hit the age when the average person will require care (67 to 70, the number of “disability-free years from birth,” again according to Stats Canada, with death occurring around age 78 for men and 82 for women). flr

fine lifestyles regina

Best of the Best The businesses and professionals featured on the following pages are Regina’s best of the best, striving to provide their customers with the crème de la crème of products and services every day. If you're looking for the very best products and services Regina has to offer, you’ll find them here!

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For Sun Life Financial advisors, life truly is brighter under the sun

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ou’ve probably seen the Sun Life Financial television ads and you may even have or know someone who has group benefits through the company. But Sun Life Financial advisors work with clients on all aspects of their financial wellbeing and financial planning, from savings and investment strategies to protection solutions like life insurance, critical-illness insurance, longterm care insurance and medical and dental plans.

While a career as a Sun Life Financial advisor offers a tremendous opportunity for financial and professional success, what many advisors find most rewarding is the ability to build long-term relationships with clients and help them achieve their financial goals as they move through life.

Whether clients are just starting out, starting a family or approaching retirement, advisors take a holistic planning approach to help them build and protect their savings with investment and insurance products that are suited to their particular age and life stage.

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In the last 15 years, the team at the Regina Financial Centre has doubled in size. New advisors are always needed to serve our steadily growing client base. Our advisors are as diverse as the clients they serve, with a wide range of different educational backgrounds and work experience. Sun Life Financial’s approach to training ensures new advisors are given the tools and skills they need to get up and running with their business through a combination of classroom and online learning, field work and one-on-one coaching.

In hiring new advisors, our goal is to recruit people who share our desire to do great things both in and outside of the office. This means not only empowering clients to achieve lifetime financial security, but also getting involved and giving back to back to the community.

A two-time past recipient of the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce Paragon Award, we are committed to supporting as many non-profit organizations and charitable events as possible that touch the lives of our clients. In 207

2009, advisors and staff contributed more than $35,000 and 1,500 hours of volunteer time to more than 25 programs and charitable groups in the areas of arts and culture, amateur sports and recreation, health recovery and illness prevention.

We are excited to build on this support and continue to make life brighter for those who live, work and play in Regina.

Becoming a Sun Life Financial advisor is an excellent career choice for those who want the ability to work independently and have unlimited income potential— all while making a meaningful difference to the clients they serve. If you’re interested in learning more about the advisor career with Sun Life Financial, please contact our financial centre or visit www.sunlife.ca/careers/advisor. flr For more information on career opportunities contact Brian R. Kilback, CFP, CLU, CH.F.C., Financial Centre Manager at 306-757-8631 x 2203.

Life’s brighter under the sun. fine lifestyles regina

Focus Mortgage Solutions & Linka Howe Law Offices Focus Mortgage Solutions makes your mortgage experience, efficient, cost-effective and enjoyable

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et’s face it—the most important business decision you will ever make in your lifetime is the purchase of a home. With so many options to choose from, it can be confusing for both the first-time and the experienced buyer.

That’s where Jason Dornstauder of Focus Mortgage Solutions comes in. With eight years of experience, and as a recognized Accredited Mortgage Professional, Jason is determined to make your mortgage experience as efficient, cost-effective and enjoyable as possible.

Jason’s task is simple—to get you the mortgage you deserve at an interest rate the big banks can’t touch. The cost for this? Absolutely free, with no hidden fees.

Focus Mortgage Solutions, unlike banks, does not pass on its overhead costs to the consumer and therefore does not have to inflate interest rates. Consider that for a 5.39-percent mortgage at your bank, Jason can get you a 3.89-percent mortgage for the same product. That translates to thousands of dollars in interest savings passed on to you!

Jason created Focus Mortgage Solutions for one reason—to provide an equal opportunity for everyone to save money. Don’t just take his word for it, though. Book your appointment today, ask the hard questions, and see for yourself!

Call (306) 205-1270 or visit the Focus Mortgage Solutions website at www.focusmortgagesolutions.com. Saving money is really this easy! Don’t forget, at Focus Mortgage Solutions, “We Have A Mortgage For Everyone!”

Pat Zawislak offers honesty, integrity and dependability

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onesty, integrity and dependability—the right way to do business! For real estate law professional Pat Zawislak, it’s the only way to do business. For the past 32 years, Pat has worked with residential and commercial real estate, and has a comprehensive understanding of mortgages and all aspects of conveyancing. When purchasing a home, many people fail to realize the hidden costs. Here are some of the things to remember before you purchase: 1. Tax Adjustments: Depending on the purchase date, the buyer may need to pay the seller for the pre-paid taxes.

2. Registration Costs: Add mortgage ($150), transfer of title (0.3 percent of value) to your purchase price.

3. Insurance: Fire insurance along with a survey ($600) or title insurance (up to $200).

4. Mortgage Payout Costs: If you sell an existing home and plan to purchase another one always check the cost of paying out your mortgage. The penalties could be staggering!

Straightforward, sensible advice that will save you money: that’s what Pat is all about. If you have any questions about your mortgage (or any legal matter), drop by and see him sometime at LinkaHowe Law Offices, #300, 533 Victoria Ave., or contact him at (306) 761-7407. flr

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The finest clothing in the world is at Oliver’s Menswear

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t Oliver’s Menswear in the Southland Shopping Centre, brothers and co-owners Farzad and Behzad Jahanpour pride themselves on offering Regina men the finest clothing in the world. “What’s happening in Europe, in Asia, in Japan, in the U.S., you can find right now in Regina, brand for brand, line for line,” Farzad says.

They don’t focus on what’s popular now, but what’s going to be popular next. “We hate to be the store with product you can get everywhere else. We want be unique.” And they offer their unique fashions in a store whose staff are focused on providing limitless customer service in a family-like atmosphere.

The Oliver’s shopper is someone who wants a quality clothes, a younger look, and a different look from the men who shop at other stores...and is willing to pay a higher price for it. As Farzad says, “to get the better-quality goods, you have to pay a higher price for it. It’s the same for cars, furniture, jewellery and food.”

Unique fashions. Top quality. Limitless service. They all add up to make Oliver’s Menswear truly “the best of the best.”

Oliver’s Mens Wear Southland Mall, Regina 790-7759

#1 for 2008 and 2009 for Royal Lepage Saskatchewan SHAHEEN AIDEEN PINO ALEK JOHN (306) 596-1470 (306) 591-6915 (306) 591-5580 (306) 502-0473 (306) 501-5333

REGINA

The Home Expert Team Combining talents to offer outstanding real-estate service

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK

PHOTOGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BERG

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hen Shaheen and Aideen Zareh’s family moved here from Iran in 1990, they saw golden opportunities lying before them.

Through hard work and dedication, these intelligent and motivated young brothers have developed the top real-estate team in the province, The Home Expert Team.

Aideen moved back to Regina from Calgary a few years ago after graduating with a marketing diploma from SAIT Polytechnic, wanting to be closer to his family and back in the hometown that he missed. After two years of working in a bank, Aideen decided to venture out as an entrepreneur in the field of real estate.

“I was already investing in real estate and I liked the competitiveness,” Aideen explains.

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So, about three years ago, he stepped out of his comfort zone and stepped into the exciting world of real estate under the Royal LePage banner. Aideen was having the time of his life; he knew that he had found his place in the world.

Growing the team Things only got better when long-time friend and fellow realtor, John Chung, decided to team up with Aideen. From there the team expanded. Shaheen, Aideen’s brother, joined the Home Expert Team along with Pino Palamara and Aleksander (“Alek”) Arsenic.

After graduating from Campbell Collegiate, John Chung studied industrial engineering, but he always had a strong interest in real estate. It was Aideen’s 210

guidance and friendship that encouraged him to pursue a career as a realtor.

John finds it very gratifying to help people find the home that they’ve been dreaming about. “I love waking up in the morning and knowing what I’m going to accomplish that day,” he says. John takes pride in the fact that he adds a personal touch by thanking clients for their business and referrals through hand-written cards and phone calls.

It was the flexible lifestyle that attracted Alek Arsenic to a career in real estate. With an active agenda which includes coaching basketball and working with troubled young people, being a realtor allows him to juggle his schedule to suit his needs.

Alek admits that a career in real estate can be financially rewarding, but the ulfine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | best of the best

timate satisfaction is the look on the face of someone who has just purchased a new home. “If I can help just one person find what they’re looking for and be happy,” he says, “I’ve done my job.”

administrative skills. His love for Regina is obvious. “This is the best place in the world for me and I really want to make a positive difference here,” he says.

Pino Palamara’s years of experience in the service industry make a major contribution to the Home Expert Team. He sets his standards high and, like his teammates, believes strongly in quality of service.

“100-percent accountable, zero-percent excuses”

“I don’t want to sell a house just for the sake of selling a house,” Pino says. “If there’s something that I notice that I don’t like about a house, I will advise my clients.” Pino goes on to say that buying a home is one of the biggest investments that people make, something the Home Expert Team understands and respects by giving their clients honest and straightforward service.

He adds, “We will guide you every step along the way.”

After three years as a district manager for Frito Lays Canada, Shaheen Zareh joined his brother in the real estate field, bringing with him a wealth of managerial and

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Shaheen says that with the growth of the city, Regina is a phenomenal place in which to invest and settle. Shaheen’s motto, “100-percent accountable, zeropercent excuses,” holds true for everyone on the Home Expert Team, and it shows through in the pride they have in their work and in their outstanding success and reputation.

Shaheen, appointed team leader because of his strong administrative background, says that for a team to work properly, pride must be put aside. There’s no room for “superstars” or “Lone Rangers” on the Home Expert Team, he says. Each person brings an array of strengths and talents that assist in providing excellent customer service. When one succeeds, everyone succeeds.

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According to Alek, this provides a great advantage to the client. “When you hire one of us, you get four other guys working night and day for you too.”

John Chung agrees. “We know the other members’ clients and we all take care of them.” He smiles and adds, “You know, it doesn’t really feel like a team, it feels more like a family.”

What does the future have in store for the Home Expert Team? According to Shaheen, the sky’s the limit. They plan to be a seven-member group by the end of 2010, providing even more excellent service to the people of Regina and area.

The future looks bright for this team of professionals. And as they embark on a new and exciting decade packed with opportunity, it will be no surprise to anyone to see Regina’s Home Expert Team not only number one in Saskatchewan, but number one in Canada. flr For more information about the Home Expert Team, call (306) 359-1900 or check out the website at www.homesregina.ca.

fine lifestyles regina

Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash

keeps vehicles looking like new B Y K AT H R Y N L A V A L L E E

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utomobile maintenance is essential in preserving both the appearance and comfort of a vehicle. After endless commutes, errands and appointments, many people find that their treasured transportation no longer looks quite so stunning. But with all the demands on the average driver, finding time to properly care for a car is often next to impossible.

Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash is determined to change that. Owners Richard and Nova Swallow are firmly committed to ensuring that nobody will have to inconvenience themselves to keep his or her vehicle looking like new. Since starting their business in May of 2007, Richard and Nova have striven to make Cappuccino Auto Spa the premier company for convenient automobile detailSpring 2010

ing throughout Saskatchewan.

Operating out of their garage for the first 18 months, Richard and Nova worked doggedly, detailing customer vehicles and fleets of automobiles for car dealerships, building their business. Today, they run both an in-house detailing service and a fully functional mobile unit.

Drop-off, pick-up and mobile services Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash offers convenience, plus time-management options for every consumer. The Auto Spa detailing centre offers both a drop-off option and a pick-up and delivery service. The Mobile Wash offers on-site cleaning and detailing of vehicles with exactly the same services as the Auto 212

Spa. In fact, the mobile unit even features fresh, complimentary coffee.

Cappuccino Auto Spa’s revolutionary mobile washing unit houses a 600-gallon water tank, two hot-water pressure/steam washers, an air tank, a generator and a plethora of detailing equipment. Cappuccino Auto Spa & Mobile wash offers its cleaning services year-round. “With the hot steam, we can get out the dirtiest of dirt,” Richard explains.

The applications of the mobile unit go far beyond car and truck detailing, however. The Mobile Wash also cleans RVs, aircraft, boats, heavy equipment and tractor-trailers. It is even used to remove graffiti and clean pavement. Restaurants use Cappuccino Auto Wash’s services to conveniently clean kitchen equipment.

The company also currently maintains fine lifestyles regina

all of the Safeway stores in Saskatchewan, as well as doing work for Canada Post, SaskTel, Village RV and countless other businesses.

Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash also provides both mobile and in-house services for vehicle fleets. Whether compact delivery vehicles or large tractortrailers, fleet vehicles can benefit from Cappuccino Auto Spa’s high-quality service, which leaves them with a fresh and polished look.

As the only company that offers fully mobile auto detailing in Saskatchewan, Cappuccino Auto Spa is a forerunner in the auto industry. “The most distinctive thing about our business,” Richard says, “is that we deliver such a wide variety of professional cleaning services, with quality control being our most important priority and unparalleled complete customer satisfaction and service our focus.”

Exacting standards Richard and Nova are determined that each and every vehicle their company handles will meet the owner’s expectations. To ensure that the company adheres to exacting standards, Cappuccino Auto Spa provides a vehicle delivery checklist that is reviewed with a vehicle’s owner after detailing.

As well, Cappuccino Auto Spa uses enviSpring 2010

ronmentally friendly and bio-degradable products to ensure that customers with allergies or chemical sensitivities have a safe and effective alternative to traditional, harsher cleaning products. Yet its commitment to the customer doesn’t stop there. To accommodate its patrons, Cappuccino Auto Spa is willing to go above and beyond simply detailing vehicles.

“One of our customers was going out of town,” Richard recounts. “We picked his car up after he left, cleaned and detailed it, then dropped it off at the airport half an hour before his flight landed. Another customer had a vehicle with some recent minor body damage that he needed repaired. We took his car to a body shop, picked it up when it was ready and cleaned and detailed it, then returned it to him.

When it comes to satisfying our customers, we try to think outside the box.”

A focus on convenience Innovation promises to be a theme in the upcoming development of Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash as well. In the future, Richard and Nova plan to combine their Auto Spa detailing centre with a specialty coffee and juice bar. Giving people a comfortable place to relax while their car is detailed will add another element of convenience to a customer’s experience. They plan to offer specialty 213

coffee gifts and merchandise as well.

Eventually, Richard and Nova also plan to integrate an Internet café into the coffee and juice bar to further serve their customers. The combination of conveniences will allow customers to relax and enjoy themselves in whatever manner they prefer while their automobile undergoes express detailing.

Cappuccino Auto Spa also aims to expand its mobile operation. “We’re currently purchasing a second mobile unit,” says Richard. “It’s larger and has more water capacity, which means we’ll be able to increase our mobile service.” The expansion will allow the company to schedule more on-site automotive detailing and commercial cleaning for its customers.

Busy vehicle owners across Regina are discovering that keeping their vehicle looking like new is no problem at all.

Whether Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash is picking up an automobile or parking right beside it, one thing is certain: when this company is finished with a vehicle, it will look like it just rolled out of the showroom.

What more could any driver ask for? flr Cappuccino Auto Spa and Mobile Wash (306) 591-2088 2835 6th Ave N., Regina

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Metro Pet Market: Leader of the pack

PHOT OGRAPHY: J ESSE COVE RT-RUT T E N BE RG

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here is no greater feeling than coming home from a long day and being greeted by an excited dog who runs to the door and gives you a big sloppy kiss on the cheek, or having an affectionate cat curl up on your lap and purr loudly as you rub his or her belly.

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Companion animals have become part of the family in many homes today, and pet owners all want to make sure their special family members live the longest and healthiest lives possible. No one wants to see his or her pet deal with the difficulties of allergies, obesity, urinary 214

tract infections, diabetes, kidney disease or cancer, but sadly, this is the reality for many furry friends.

That’s why Kurt Jensen and Ross McNabb opened Metro Pet Market, Regina’s premier pet health and lifestyle store, in the first place: to give pet owners the opportunity to make informed, healthy choices for their pets to help prevent and, in some cases, reverse these kinds of illnesses.

Healthy food and accessories “We wanted to focus on being a healthy food and accessories store exclusively, so we don’t offer an array of other services,” says McNabb. “We are constantly researching and bringing in the healthiest pet foods, treats and supplements available.”

“And we don’t just dabble in health products. Our fundamental philosophy is that we won’t sell any foods or treats that we wouldn’t feed to our own pets,” says Jensen.

Their extensive research means that if a fine lifestyles regina

product is of a high quality, Metro Pet Market will have it first: just call them “leader of the pack.” In fact, some of the products they carry are not available anywhere else in Canada. And it’s not just food and treats that are healthy and chemical-free: everything in the store meets their very high standards. Items like beds and toys are natural; free of toxic dyes, latex, vinyl, lead, or BPA, they don’t contain any damaging compounds that would pose a threat to you or your pets.

But the store is about more than just the products on the shelves. “Our biggest goal is information,” Jensen says. “There are so many natural options out there and it can be confusing for pet lovers to sort through them all. That’s why we’re here.

We pass all of our research on to our clients so they can make informed decisions about their pets’ diet and lifestyle.”

All Metro Pet Market employees are pet owners themselves, and receive extensive training on health, nutrition and product ingredients and their impact on pet health conditions. This means employees are able to give informed advice and recommendations to customers on their pets’ specific situations.

This personal touch has caused Regina animal lovers to fall in love with Metro Pet Market, voting it Best Pet Store and Best Locally Owned Store in The Prairie Dog’s recent “Best of Regina” poll. The business was also named as a finalist for a 2010 Paragon Award in the category of Best New Business Venture.

“We are so flattered to hear customers constantly say they are proud to have a store like this in Regina,” says Jensen. “We even have international visitors come into the store and say that they haven’t seen anything like it, even in major centres like Vancouver, Toronto, Seattle or Los Angeles. It means a lot to us to know that people value what we do, and that they tell their friends and neighbours about us.”

Environmentally friendly While Metro Pet Market’s main focus is on the health of companion animals, it never loses sight of the bigger picture: a

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PHOT OGRAPHY: J E F F HAMON

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healthy and sustainable environment.

“We try to make our environmental footprint as small as possible,” Jensen says.

The store carries a variety of eco-friendly products, such as organic toys and pet beds, as well as items made from recycled materials. It even uses paper bags, with its signature paw print stamped on them in non-toxic ink. “We do our best to choose foods and treats that are made from organic, free-range, hormone-free and antibiotic-free meats. These kinds of choices make a real difference to the health of our pets and the environment.”

Giving back to the community Metro Pet Market also gives back to the community as major sponsors of the Regina Humane Society and Regina’s Annual Pet Expo, and with donations and other support to local animal rescue groups. “We support animal rescue instead of selling pets because we believe there are too many abandoned pets in need of good homes. All of our employees have adopted rescue animals 215

and we encourage our customers to do the same,” says Jensen.

With its fun, relaxed, and simple atmosphere, Metro Pet Market is the kind of place customers like to visit. The friendly staff members greet pets (and their people) by name and are passionate about their work…and it shows.

But for many, the highlight of visiting, other than a host of information and great products, is “having your paw shook” by Ruby, the store greeter and official mascot. Ruby is an American Staffordshire Terrier mix adopted from the Regina Humane Society and is a true testament to healthy foods and supplements.

It’s guaranteed you will always get a wagging, excited tail from Ruby. And if you are really lucky, you may even get a big sloppy kiss. flr Metro Pet Market 1637 Victoria Avenue, Regina (306) 352-9663 www.metropetmarket.ca fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | best of the best

Capital Pontiac Buick Cadillac named General Motors’ Retailer of the Year for 2009 B Y F L R S TA F F

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here are a lot of General Motors dealerships in Canada, spanning the country from coast to coast.

You could be forgiven for assuming that each year, the Canadian GM dealership selling the most new and used cars and trucks would be in one of the largest centres: Toronto, perhaps, or Vancouver or Calgary.

But guess what? In 2009, the dealership that sold the most vehicles, and the one that was named the GM Retailer of the Year, was Capital Pontiac Buick Cadillac of Regina, located at 4020 Rochdale Blvd.

It’s the first time a Saskatchewan dealership has ever earned this recognition of distinction.

To achieve it, Capital Pontiac Buick Cadillac sold 2,800 new and used vehicles—and that’s not counting fleet sales.

Bruce Axelson, president of Capital Pontiac, was formally presented with the award by Nancy Woodard, Western Canadian director for retail sales for GM, early in February.

The fact is, Capital Pontiac Buick Cadillac, right here in Regina, is Canada’s largest General Motors Dealership

Axelson refuses to take credit for the award, pointing out that he personally doesn’t know how to sell a car or change the oil. Fortunately, he says, he has a wonderful team of men and women who do, and their success is a tribute to their ability and their focus on the customer.

Of course, one reason why the Regina dealership outsold other Canadian dealerships last year is that Saskatchewan as a whole, and Regina in particular, were relatively unaffected by the global recession.

But an even more important reason was that Capital Pontiac just kept on doing what it does best, focusing on customer service and selling cars and trucks, rather Spring 2010

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than panicking when GM entered creditor protection last year.

In fact, Axelson notes, in 2009, at the height of the discussion of a bail-out and refinancing for General Motors, Capital Pontiac’s sales were actually ahead of where they had been at the same point in 2008.

It’s gratifying for Axelson, who spent more than $20 million on the Capital Pontiac and Capital Ford Lincoln dealerships, along with Universal Collision, at the Rochdale Boulevard and Pasqua Street intersection a couple of years ago, each a gleaming, high-tech, customerfriendly gem.

Still surprised that a local dealership won

the GM Retailer of the Year Award? You shouldn’t be. The fact is, Capital Pontiac Buick Cadillac, right here in Regina, is Western Canada’s largest General Motors dealership.

And with its focus on top-notch customer service, whether those customers are seeking to buy a new vehicle or a used vehicle, or have come looking for parts and service for their existing vehicle, it’s looking forward to even more successful years to come. flr Visit Capital Pontiac at 4020 Rochdale Blvd. or online at www.capitalgm.ca, or phone 525-5211 or, toll-free, 1-800240-5211.

A far cry from clinics of yesteryear Enhance Dental Centre is a far cry from the bare-bones, Spartan clinics of yesteryear. Everything about it is inviting, and as a client you really do feel like you’re getting more than a cleaning, a rootcanal, a whitening treatment or any of the other top-notch services they offer.

PHOT OGRAPHY: DRAW N DAISY

A much-postponed dental cleaning occasioned my first visit to Enhance Dental Centre. Typically, new clients start with a 90-minute appointment during which medical and dental histories are taken and a panoramic X-ray capturing all the teeth is shot. Once they know a little about you, you get to learn a little about yourself.

Enhance Dental Centre Making people comfortable with dentistry

BY MEAGEN THOMAS

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rom the décor and the relaxed, cheerful atmosphere, it would be easy to mistake Enhance Dental Centre for a day-spa as you step through the door.

“Lots of people say that coming here is like going to a spa,” says Thea Monckton, the dental hygienist, as she settles me into the hygiene room.

“People should feel relaxed and at ease when they come to the dentist. Making people feel comfortable here is a part of

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the service that we really strive for.”

Dr. Tony Romaniuk, who has been a dentist for 10 years, launched his own clinic, Enhance Dental, in late 2007. He wanted to create a different kind of dental clinic, one where state-of-the-art techniques and equipment were standard and where the out-dated impersonal service model wasn’t.

The clinic has nine staff members, including Dr. Romaniuk, two dental hygienists and a dental therapist who does some of the basic clinical treatments.

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Operating a tiny camera mounted on a wand, Thea takes a digital image of the inside of my lower front teeth. “The digital images allow patients to see what we see,” Thea says.

Seeing is a tremendous tool; nothing makes an argument for proper brushing and flossing quite like seeing what its absence can cause.

This might be “just a cleaning,” but Thea has found a few things worth following up on, like a sensitive tooth than may not just be “sensitive.” Another shot with the camera and—there!—a jagged chip in the enamel is magnified. Thea will avoid that tooth for now and Dr. Romaniuk will take a closer look when we’re done.

The level of screening speaks volumes about the level of care, and Enhance Dental Centre goes further than most. Along with the standard checks for receding gums, tooth decay and other problems, they look closely for signs of serious conditions, and even screen patients for oral cancer. Like any cancer, early detection is vital to successful treatment. The scan, which detects abnormal tissue, takes scant seconds to do, and each second is worth it for peace of mind.

A very special workplace While Thea cleans away the plaque and tartar using a tiny jet of high-pressure fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | best of the best water, she explains how Enhance Dental Centre really is unlike any other dental practice she has worked for.

Take whitening, for example. There are both in-office and at-home treatments, whatever works best for the client. Braces evocative of a Cadillac’s grill are gone, replaced by removable, invisible appliances.

There isn’t one solution for any given dental issue, there are many; and each course of care is uniquely built around a patient’s particular needs.

They are inflexible on one aspect of dentistry care: preventive care is priority one.

Dr. Romaniuk recommends cleanings twice yearly instead of annually for some patients, and never takes a wait-and-see approach to even the smallest level of discomfort.

Dentistry is an important health service.

As anyone who has ever needed an emergency root canal can tell you, dental health affects overall health. Headaches, neck and jaw pain, sinus pain—lots of symptoms can be traced back to something amiss in the mouth.

There’s another facet of health to consider, too: self esteem. “Some people don’t feel good about themselves because of the way their teeth look,” Thea says.

“The physical transformation can be incredible, but the effect a smile makeover has goes beyond a healthy smile; people say they feel better about themselves, and much more confident.”

A unique business model Enhance Dental Centre’s array of quality services are delivered within a unique business model: a five-day, 8 a.m.-to-5 p.m. work week. Dr. Romaniuk wants his staff to enjoy a work-life balance; no late nights, no weekends, no on-call for non-clinical staff. Staying open all hours or taking staff away from their children and families doesn’t exactly get the best performance out of people.

PHOT OGRAPHY: DRAWN DAISY

“This is a very special workplace; we make an excellent team because we’re all focused on patient-focused service,” Thea says.

leading edge of a new concept in dental care and clinic practice. The furnishing and decor are straight out of an upscale day-spa. Affable and easy-going, he exudes radiant health with his youthful appearance and athletic build. He is an attentive, sensitive listener, but also a gifted communicator with a knack for being clear and concise.

In my case, he advised that the chipped tooth Thea found needs attention, and soon; he makes room in his schedule for urgent care like this, so in less than a week, I’ll be in and out with a new filling—just like that. Enhance Dental Centre bills my insurance company directly, too; everything about my visit has been quick, comfortable and painless.

Thea and Dr. Romaniuk see me out with a bag of dental swag, mostly tools and tips to sustain my pearly new smile. They don’t know it, but I’ve left with something more: a strong desire to tell my friends and colleagues what they’ve been missing. I’ll be seeing a lot more of Dr. Romaniuk and I know a lot of other people will, too. flr Enhance Dental Centre Dr. Tony Romaniuk 306.757.SMILE (7645) 1858 Vic Ave East, Regina www.enhancedental.ca

In many ways, Dr. Romaniuk is on the

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Proud Member of Regina Home Builders Association

Olympic Paving Stone A love of the craft, a dedication to doing the job right

BY G.H. LEWMER

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hances are if you have driven anywhere around the Regina area you have seen and admired Olympic Paving Stone’s work, renowned for its excellence and durability.

Owners Bruce and Rob Smutt not only share the common bond of brotherhood,

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they also share a commitment to quality and assured service at an affordable price for the home or commercial property owner.

Olympic offers a complete residential and commercial landscaping service, from fence to lawn. With its unique, creative 220

expertise, it makes homes and businesses look beautiful—guaranteed.

One thing that sets Olympic Paving Stone apart is its use of the environmentally friendly Cindercrete Paving Stone from the Saskatchewan-based family business of the same name—paving fine lifestyles regina

stone for your driveways, patios, walkways or stairways that will never crack and will look just as beautiful in 20 years as it does today. Olympic's creative artisans care about their customers—and the quality of their own work.

They love what they do When you sit down for coffee with Bruce and Rob it immediately becomes apparent that they love what they do. Their love of and dedication to their craft reminds one of the medieval stonemasons who built the great cathedrals of Europe, artists who worked tirelessly to ensure their work met the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

As Bruce explains, “We’re working professionals who have a combined 25 years’ experience in the field of construction and landscaping. When we first started Olympic Paving Stone we noticed right away that a lot of our work involved repairing previously done work that for whatever reason was not completed correctly the first time. We understood right there and then that our most important goal for this company was to ensure that the work we did would be of the highest quality, and long-lasting for the customer. We know that the excellence of our work and the professionalism that we pride ourselves on is the main reason why we have so much referral work.”

Local suppliers As business owners in Regina, they understand the importance of the community as well as the importance of supporting the local suppliers of all their materials. They insist on maintaining strong and committed business partnerships with these companies and individuals. Olympic believes strongly in this principle. “I think it’s important for people to understand that Olympic Paving Stone purchases the majority of its materials from Saskatchewan-based companies and individuals,” Bruce says.

“We were flying the ‘Buy Local’ flag before anyone knew what it meant!” Rob fine lifestyles regina

pressed by the fact that we own all our Bobcats and gravel trucks. It’s not like we’re a fly-by-night company that pulls up and everything is a rental and usually falling apart. It brings an efficiency to the job because we don’t waste time fixing or working on our own equipment! All of our work is concentrated on the job itself—which is how it always should be.

It’s frustrating knowing that quality service isn’t valued and revered as much as it should be.”

“Quality service at an affordable price!” puts in. “In all seriousness, the reason why we buy local is because we know and have learned that our local suppliers offers the highest-quality materials at reasonable prices. We know where everything is coming from, and we make sure we’re 100-percent satisfied with the quality of the material before we invest in it. That’s something you can do when you buy local.

“We can’t always get that guarantee of quality if we purchase out of province.

We know that if we buy quality, we will create quality. We also know that when we create quality, we create work that will last. We also know that when we create work that will last, it means the work is done right!”

“A world of difference” A testament to that "work done right" of which the brothers are justifiably proud is their clients’ increased demand for the Saskatchewan-based Cindercrete Paving Stone they specialize in. This increase in client demand doesn’t surprise Rob or Bruce one bit.

“We’ve found a world of difference when working with Paving Stone,” Bruce says.

“As opposed to concrete, Paving Stone is made up of individual stones that can move, and never cracks. By being such a simple and efficient means of creating a walkway, it also becomes a long-lasting, aesthetically gratifying change in apSpring 2010

“We’ve learned that being the best means you have to invest in yourself. It’s imperative that we maximize our ability to give the client outstanding service. The only way to do that is by listening to their needs and ensuring that their needs are met.

Before we part, Rob shares the philosophy he and his brother work and live by.

“We are part of a profession where we know image is very important. We are extremely proud of what we do and we always want to be known as a company that does the job better than anyone else.

We like to say ‘Quality service at an affordable price!’”

Rob pauses for a moment, trying to find the right words to describe how he feels about his livelihood. “Bruce and I have worked very hard our entire lives to dedicate ourselves to a principle of business that values responsibility and accountability—not only to Olympic Paving Stone, but also to our families, to our clients, to everyone we meet.

Of course, Bruce, being his brother, had to get in the final word. “Eighty percent of the work we get is based on referrals.

That’s something special that no money can buy, knowing that our clients are so impressed by our work, they’ll go out of their way to tell their friends to hire Olympic Paving Stone, they’ll do the job right for you.

“That’s what we’ll always promise to do for anyone who hires us. We’ll do the job right!” flr

“Public satisfaction is a lost art-form. You can’t imagine how many times Olympic Paving Stone has been complimented because we still believe in this principle!”

Olympic Paving Stone (306) 540-3249 or (306) 540-3248 www.olympicpavingstone.com

proach to the way that home or business owners see their living environment.

“People really notice the contrast when they walk or drive on a Paving Stone driveway or walkway. A lot of owners tell me that when I meet with them after the installation. They are appreciative and thankful for the creative difference that they now embody. It makes a world of difference!”

When it comes to landscaping, the Olympic team members' extensive experience has served them well, allowing them to better understand and meet their clients’ needs. As Rob notes, “We’re extremely conscientious in working with the best people on our crews and working with the best equipment. We’re not interested in just putting money into our pockets, we want to put it back into our company by upgrading our machines and tools.

Bruce adds, “That’s why we use all our own equipment. Our clients are im222

fine lifestyles regina

finelifestylesregina | best of the best

Performance Marine Saskatchewan’s internationally recognized full-service marine centre B Y A M Y N E L S O N - M I L E

JEFF LORCH, GENERAL MANAGER AND LIZ WALZ, BOATING INDUSTRY INTERNATIONAL

volvement. Performance Marine has dedicated itself to excelling in all these areas.

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erformance Marine, Saskatchewan's only full-service marine centre, has recently received a coveted award in its field–the internationally recognized "Top 100 Award" given by Boating Industry International. A panel of industry representatives selected Performance Marine for this award out of an estimated 5,000 active boat dealers in North America.

The 100 businesses which are chosen for this award are recognized as having an outstanding customer service record, strong operational effectiveness, a high degree of professionalism, and a commendable amount of community in-

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The business is family owned and operated, and right from the beginning in 1997 found the niche it wanted to fill.

General Manager Jeff Lorch says, “we're a marine-specific dealership. If the customer is looking for something on the water, we're the place to shop.”

At the beginning Performance Marine decided to specialize strictly in anything boat-related. Lorch explains that "the power sports industry is very service-oriented, and if you have too many areas you can't do everything well." By choosing to focus on boats, "we can provide a much higher level of service to our customers."

Sticking to boats provides them with plenty of scope as it is. "We have aluminum fishing boats, fiberglass family boats, pontoon boats, wakeboarding boats, and wakesurfing boats."

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Performance Marine represents top-quality products, Lorch says. "The lines that we carry are industry leaders in their respective fields.” In addition, Performance Marine is Saskatchewan's only full-service marine centre. “All our mechanics are factory trained and certified,” says Lorch.

“We have a full fiberglass body shop, we do propeller and skeg repairs in-house, and we have a full parts department with the most comprehensive selection of boating and watersports accessories in the province, including skis, tubes, kneeboards, wakeboards and surfboards.”

In addition to sales, maintenance, and repair of boats, Performance Marine also provides off-season boat storage.

Performance Marine's long-standing dedication to its clients has been recognized by awards previous to the Top 100 Award.

Provincially it has been recognized twice: in 2006 it won the Regina Chamber of Commerce Paragon Award for Continued Excellence in Customer Service. In 2008 it won the Saskatchewan Better Business Bureau Torch Award (given in recognition of ethics and integrity in business).

Lorch is justifiably proud of what Performance Marine has achieved, saying, “Simply put, our dedicated team offers our customers the best products, backed by the best service in the industry.” flr Finalist for the 2010 Regina Chamber of Commerce “Business of the Year” Paragon Award Performance Marine 3310 Pasqua St., Regina, SK 586-2628 www.performanceregina.com

fine lifestyles regina

fort qu’appelle

Fort Qu’Appee:Jewel of the Vaey

BY SHEENA KOOPS

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ike a diamond, catching the sun’s light and shining it back in a thousand directions, Fort Qu’Appelle sparkles in the Qu’Appelle Valley: spring, summer, fall and winter.

PHOTOGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BERG

Saskatchewan Tourism’s website lists the RCMP, First Nations and Métis, Fishing, Woods and Water and Prairie under the menu heading “Uniquely Saskatchewan.”

Fort Qu’Appelle boasts not just one of these Saskatchewan highlights, but all of them! Not to mention history, tourism, culture, recreation, services and, best of all…community.

Fort Qu’Appelle residents are proud to call the community of 2,000 home. The recent Olympic torch run brought people cheering into the streets to watch Fort Qu’Appelle’s proud celebrities—country singer Stephanie Thomson, Canadian Idol’s Matt Rapley and Hoop Dancer Terence Littletent—perform on an icecastle stage.

Fort Qu’Appelle residents love any excuse for get-togethers, like the Fort Knox Games and Farmers’ Market. Seasonally, the community gathers for the Mid-Summer’s Art Festival, Remembrance Day, the Spring 2010

inter-faith Blue Christmas, Christmas in the Valley, and the Community Outreach’s Christmas Dinner, bringing people from all walks of life under one roof in the spirit of the season. There are also pancake breakfasts, fall suppers, ladies’ nights out and wildlife banquets.

If that’s not enough, community members join organizations like the Grandmother’s Group, Chamber of Commerce, Valley Fitness Co-op, the Legion, Lions, Rotary, Masons, or one of five churches.

For younger people there are also Guides, Scouts and Cadets, and organizations like the Ka-Pa-Chee Training Centre, The Friendship Centre and Edgeley Youth Group also have youth programming.

Community education Community-minded Fort Qu’Appelle believes in community education. Both the elementary and high school proudly wear Saskatchewan Education’s designation of “Community School,” promoting inter-agency cooperation and after-school programming. Principal Glenda Elliot says, “Not only is the valley beautiful, but the area is rich with cultural diversity. The 224

opportunity to work with many partners enriches our variety of programs to meet the needs of all students.”

Fort Qu’Appelle schools employ social workers as well as share an RCMP resource officer. The high school is currently involved in a Recording Artist Project, bringing music and treaty teachings together.

Students will work with elders, professors and hip-hop artist Eekwol. World Earth Day will see a concert, featuring the release of a student-generated CD. Fort Qu’Appelle schools—regularly graduating scholarship recipients—offer a comprehensive education, with students transitioning into the work force and post-secondary education. Likewise, Parkland College offers programs in trades, business, health, technology, safety and firefighting, as well as Adult Basic Education, university classes, SIAST classes and literacy. Jill Whiting, program assistant, says, “I get to see people challenge themselves, reaching growth and potential that builds self-confidence and self-worth. It's wonderful to see the happiness in the faces of students when they reach their goals.”

Fort Qu’Appelle’s state-of-the-art All Nafine lifestyles regina

tions Healing Hospital is helping too, focusing on all areas of health: mind, body, spirit and emotion. This one-of-a-kind holistic hospital has a variety of services including nutrition, child development, counselling and traditional ceremonies, offered side-by-side with acute care, emergency and lab facilities. The Women’s Health Centre is advantageously housed at the hospital. Fort Qu’Appelle also has medical clinics, dentists, chiropractor, optometrist, mental health and massage services, making Fort Qu’Appelle’s community healthier and happier.

A fascinating history Fort Qu’Appelle’s vibrant community did not appear overnight. Established as a Hudson Bay fort in 1864, Fort Qu’Appelle has earlier beginnings; the valley was a traditional hunting and gathering place for the Cree and Saulteau. The haunting poem of Pauline Johnson, “Legend of the Qu’Appelle Valley,” harkens to those days.

As early as the mid-1700s fur traders frequented the valley, and eventually Fort Qu’Appelle became the centre of trade from Manitoba to Alberta, and an important gateway to the north. With intermarriage between First Peoples and European Voyagers, the Métis Nation was born.

In 1874, after tense negotiations, Treaty Four was signed on September 15 in Fort Qu’Appelle by 13 Chiefs and the British Spring 2010

Crown. Also in the late 1800s, the people of Standing Buffalo came to the valley. In 1880 Fort Qu’Appelle’s post office was founded and the North West Mounted Police (not given their Royal designation until 1904) built barracks on what is now Echo Ridge Golf Course.

European families began moving into the area in the 1890s with the coming of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

With this rich history comes cultural tourism. A walking tour should include the beautiful 1897 Hudson’s Bay Building and the local museum with prize Hudson Bay and NWMP artefacts, as well as memorabilia from the tuberculosis sanatorium which gave its name to 225

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Fort San. Visitors will want to drive to the Governance Centre, with the world’s largest inhabited teepee, located on Treaty Four grounds.

PHOTOGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BERG

In the third week of each September, more than 20 teepees line the grounds at the Annual Treaty Four Gathering with educational exhibits, traditional food and an opportunity to see fancy dance, jingle dress, grass dance and more. Standing Buffalo, just past Fort San, also has a summer powwow.

In the second week of August, the village of Lebret, minutes down the road, hosts the Lebret Métis Farm Cultural Days, complete with fiddling, jigging, bannock-making and chuckwagon races.

While in Lebret, visitors can check out the museum, the Gothic cathedral, the hill-top chapel, the antique shop and the glass hut. The Motherwell Homestead National Historic Site of Canada, just kilometres away, is worth a day trip to see turn-of-the-century farming in action, and for a different spin on culture, take a tour of the Fish Culture Station, which stocks more than 150 lakes with trout and walleye.

Thriving arts and culture Arts and culture are not all things of the past. Boasting a library, radio station, newspaper and Donna Caruso’s televiSpring 2010

sion show Life Without Borders, arts and culture is alive in Fort Qu’Appelle. Many Saskatchewan artists began their careers at Fort San’s School of the Arts, and today many artists call Fort Qu’Appelle home, including Sharron Labatt, Ida Laurens and Joan Bolen. The Prairie Trails Arts Council’s Mid-summer Art Festival brings artists and tourists into the sunshine, with pottery, jewelry and paintings, as well as showcasing locals like students from Valley Dance Studio.

It’s no wonder singer-songwriter Buffy Sainte-Marie continues to return to her people in the Qu’Appelle Valley to stay grounded and inspired.

Nestled in the heart of the four Fishing Lakes, Fort Qu’Appelle’s recreation and sport is a huge part of a year-round lifestyle. In spring, summer and fall, you can go camping, boating, sailing, golfing, fishing, gardening or skateboarding in the new Skate Park. As soon as the snow melts, there’s tennis, soccer, soft ball, hardball and slow pitch. In the summer, you can enjoy the beach, swimming, tanning, water skiing and tubing. But Father Winter is just as athletic, with downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, curling, figure skating, snowmobiling and ice fishing.

Hiking remains a year-round activity, especially along the TransCanada Trail, 226

which parallels Highway 56 from Katepwa to Fort Qu’Appelle. Year-round indoor activities include recreational volleyball, basketball and table tennis.

In the sporty home of Eddie Shore, it would be a crime if Fort Qu’Appelle was not a hockey town. Luckily, the Fort Knox and the Minor Hockey Leagues keep the Rexentre hopping. Valley recreation venues include Mission Ridge Winter Park (which recently hosted the skiing events for the Saskatchewan Winter Games), Echo Ridge Golf Course, Clearview Arena, Fort Qu’Appelle Curling Rink, Valley View Guest Ranch and Ravine Adventures, as well as a variety of church camps and retreat centres.

The Fort Qu’Appelle Lions Echo Lake Road Race, May 23, will see Tewodros Jaleta of Regina vying for his 14th win.

As well, the Hill Crest Outfitters Qu’Appelle Valley Walleye Cup International Tournament in August reels in outdoor enthusiasts.

“A Town in Motion” Fort Qu’Appelle’s motto, “A Town in Motion,” not only applies to culture, recreation and sports, but also to services. Fort Qu’Appelle offers everything from hardware to yard and garden; from auto and marine to clothing and fashion. With fine lifestyles regina

more than 70 businesses in town, a wide variety of restaurants from fast-food to fine dining, as well as entertainment, health and beauty, Fort Qu’Appelle offers the charm of flower shops and pottery studios and all necessities of a larger centre.

Fort Qu’Appelle isn’t content to maintain the status quo. Mayor Ron Osika says, “We continue to work with consultants to secure investors for the development of a one-stop resort, hotel and convention centre so that we can attract visitors and tourists locally, nationally and internationally, year-round.”

The entrepreneurs of Fort Qu’Appelle are busy, too. They’re developing 65 residential lots along Mission Lake. Starblanket First Nations and Little Black Bear First Nations are exploring multi-business opportunities. Town Administrator Ed Sigmeth says, “We are confident in controlled growth, because we have protections built in, like environmental constraints. We want to keep the tourist and resort nature of the community, while maintaining the small-town values. It’s win-win.”

A jewel needs regular polish to be its best, and the Town of Fort Qu’Appelle’s administration is on the job. With skillfully ploughed winter streets and tidy, flowered summer avenues, Fort Qu’Appelle has great curb appeal. With a variety of housing opportunities, from lake-front Spring 2010

property to starter homes, as well as senior homes, condos and rental units, Fort Qu’Appelle is a treasure year-round.

“Like the Garden of Eden” Angela and Brian Bagget of Texas have been researching a move to Fort Qu’Appelle for more than a year. On a scouting visit last summer, Brian said, “It’s like the Garden of Eden.” The Baggets are moving to Fort Qu’Appelle this May. They are convinced that Fort Qu’Appelle is a truly diverse and exciting place to raise their three children, while living a meaningful life, enjoying the beauty of the valley.

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Whether Saskatoon spring berries are blooming, summer-blue waters are inviting, the oranges, reds and yellows of fall decorate the TransCanada Trail or the white snow of winter covers the hills, Fort Qu’Appelle is a postcard community, year-round.

As Mayor Osika says, “Fort Qu’Appelle is the best-kept secret. It’s a recreation Mecca; it’s a prairie oasis.” Call it the Garden of Eden, call it a diamond, call it what you will, this “Town in Motion” is a place to visit and a place to come home: “4 Lakes, 4 Seasons, 4 Everyone.”

And the sooner you get here, the better! flr

fine lifestyles regina

fort qu’appelle

Dunk the Druggist A century of community care

BY BRIAN BOWMAN

PHOT OGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T E N BE RG

acquired through the decades, and genuine when you enter the store today.

T

he wall mural on the corner opposite Canada’s first Hudson’s Bay retail store is a window into Fort Qu’Appelle’s history. This is a multicultural community, with a long history of commerce and healing. The old fur-trade company is gone now, and only the building remains. But in 1911, Fort Qu’Appelle’s Dunk the Druggist pharmacy was living proof of its motto: “We’re not just your neighbours, we’re your friends!”

Sharon Labatt painted the mural that now adorns the outside of the Fort Qu'Appelle Pharmasave from this and other photos of the store and of the persons the mural depicts.

Frederick A. Dunk is standing at the door. His son, Frederick N. Dunk, is dispensing a prescription in the window. Seated on the bench is Dr. R. George Ferguson, who was the Chief of the Medical Staff at the Fort San Tuberculosis Sanatorium and who practiced there from 1917 to 1948. Also seated on the bench is Chief Moses Asham, from the Pasqua First Nations, for whom Asham’s point on Pasqua Lake is named. Frederick A. Dunk opened the store in 1911, and his son Fred took over the operation in 1938. Dennis Palmier, who commissioned the mural, was hired by Fred in 1967 and became a partner of the business in 1974.

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It still is. Michelle Johns manages the store these days. The original Dunk was her grandmother’s uncle. “First it was Fred Dunk Sr., then his son, Fred Dunk Jr. My father, Dennis Palmier, started for Fred Dunk in 1967, then became a partner in 1974.”

The store began with one pharmacist and two front-of-store staff. But it quickly expanded to include confections, jewelry, giftware and a strong association with the community and local health concerns.

This theme is depicted in the wall mural, evident in the renown the drug store has 228

You’ll be well received by one of a staff of 20, and you may be surprised at what you see. On one hand, it’s a well-stocked and value-added pharmacy, with pharmacists and staff including a diabetes educator and staff trained in support-hose fittings. They provide community seminars on various health topics and medication reviews in the store, at home or at the nursing home. All the pharmacists are also PACT trained to assist with smoking cessation.

On the other hand, it’s also a retail and specialty store with a wide range of products and services. The store provides fullservice cosmetics, including ear piercing, watch battery and watchband replacements, and help with products ranging from Fruits and Passions bath-and-body products to furniture accessories, home décor, wall art (including local indigenous art and crafts) and Bernie Brown ceramic products. You’ll also find the Dawgs line of shoes, the Lug line of travel accessories and a full range of everyday and beach toys. These brand names can be hard to find even in the city, yet they’re all available from Dunk the Druggist. Better yet, you will receive that small-town personal service that can also be hard to find in the city’s larger stores.

In rural areas extended pharmacy services aren’t always available, and deals on highend products aren’t usually found. Often, neither are the products. But Fort Qu’Appelle has historic and cultural appeal and the Calling Lakes have become cottage country. Today’s customer profile at Dunk’s includes local residents, city dwellers and tourists. And it is reflected in the range and quality of Dunk the Druggist’s products and services.

“People come in and say: ‘You know, I looked all over the city for this and I fine lifestyles regina

Pharmasave 203 Broadway Street, Fort Qu’Appelle (306) 332-5717

PHOT OGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T E N BE RG

Operating hours at Dunk have also changed over the years to keep pace with the times and the expansion of the business.

“Dunk the Druggist used to be a Tuesday-to-Saturday operation, in the good old days, and was closed over lunch time,” says Johns. “Now we are open seven days a week. In the winter months we are open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., which is extended to 8 p.m. from May to September.”

But the best thing about the store hasn’t changed at all. Dunk the Druggist is as diversely stocked with goods and services as an old-time general store. And you get a welcome that is four-generations sincere! flr

could have found it right here. I should have checked here first.’ We hear that a lot,” says Johns, adding, “Before you go to the city, come and see what your small-town pharmacy has to offer. Dunk the Druggist is a full-service store!”

Dunk the Druggist operates as a Pharmasave franchise. It is still a family business, with both Michelle Johns and her father, Dennis Palmier, shareholders in the company. They have kept the name “Dunk the Druggist” as a tribute to its lineage and to reinforce the small-town character the pharmacy wants to sustain.

The name carries a legacy of a century of service to the community.

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fort qu’appelle

Thinking cottage renovations?

Think Hanson Hardware!

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK

A

h, spring. The snow melts away!

The air becomes fresh and fragrant. The snow melts away!

Songbirds sing. The snow melts away!

Kids head out to play soccer. The snow melts away! The neighbour brings out his classic car. The whole town is buzzing with yard sales, spring bazaars and backyard barbecues. And did I mention that the snow melts away?

Before you know it, it will be time to head for the cabin—and you just can’t wait!

Fishing, boating, hiking, golfing, birding, swimming and just sitting around the campfire—it’s going to be a great year and you can’t get there fast enough.

But wait a second...is this the year you need to put the new roof on the cabin?

Weren’t you also planning to expand the deck and put in some new flooring? And what about checking the seal around the windows? Suddenly you feel a knot form Spring 2010

in the pit of your stomach and a pain slowly welling up in your head.

Owning a cabin is more work than you thought.

You just want the work done quickly and properly so you can get your tranquil getaway back...but who do you turn to?

You want someone trustworthy with long-time ties to the community. No flyby-night bargains for you, you’ve worked too hard to trust your home away from home to just anyone.

Long-established, long-trusted Hanson Hardware is a long-time member of the Fort Qu’Appelle community.

Opening its doors in 1933, Hanson Hardware has been a foundational company in the town, providing job opportunities to local people and exceptional products and expert service to cus230

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tomers. Over the years, Hanson Hardware has maintained the solid reputation built by founder Arthur Hanson.

In 1972 Arthur’s grandson Don Hanson took over and the business continued to grow and prosper. Under the Home Hardware umbrella since 1980, Hanson Hardware offers its customers the security of a well-known and trusted brand with an impeccable warranty service.

Hanson took the family business a step further in 1990, when he ventured into lumber and building materials. Hanson Hardware now offers a wide range of building and renovating supplies, including flooring, lumber, fixtures, paint supplies, building plans and much more.

“It all revolves around customer satisfaction,” Hanson says. “We follow through on a project from beginning to end, regardless if it’s a new building or renovation.”

Knowledgeable staff Today, Hanson Hardware has a fulltime staff of 45 highly talented people with a wide range of knowledge and skills from sales to carpentry. When asked about the people who work for him, Hanson unapologetically brags about the brilliant up-and-coming young people he has on staff. He is proud to see the family name and reputation carried on in the manner which his father and grandfather intended.

“We have journeyperson carpenters and we take part in the apprenticeship program—our guys are second to none,” Hanson says, and adds, “Our flooring installers are the best, as good as or better than anyone in the city.”

Hanson also explains that they work sideby-side with local electricians and plumbers to make it easier for home or cottage owners. According to Hanson, using local trades people rather than hiring outside the area is both cheaper and more efficient. The customer doesn’t have to worry about paying for a lot of travel time, or whether or not the plumbers or electricians can make it out to the site.

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“We work around the customer’s schedule,” Hanson says. He says they will take the time to work with the customer, going over schedules and plans and following up on a regular basis.

Hanson also says that although cottage season starts in May, Hanson Hardware works steadily all year long on building projects, renovations and so on. It’s never too early to get your plans to them and talk to one of the staff about your project.

Putting talented young people to work All businesses are growing and evolving entities and Hanson Hardware is no exception. One of Hanson’s key goals is to bring more young people to Fort Qu’Appelle, offering employment opportunities to the right individuals. With training and mentorship programs being set up in various departments of the business, including building and installation, administrative and managerial, Hanson Hardware presents itself as a long-term employer for ambitious up-and-comers.

“We really want to keep our talented young people in Saskatchewan and offer them stability that they can’t get anywhere else,” said Hanson.

So, as you sit there with the knot in your stomach and the pain in your head, thinking about all that work at the cabin, why not think about Hanson Hardware?

Call (306) 332-5212—or better yet, visit Don and his great group of people at 190 Broadway Ave. in Fort Qu’Appelle to discuss your renovating or building plans.

After visiting Hanson Hardware, the only decisions you’ll have to make are whether to go biking or fishing, waterskiing or wakeboarding, golfing or hiking. Oh, and whether you should use SPF 15 or 30. And then there’s that tough choice between barbecue steak and chicken...

Hanson Home Hardware 190 Broadway Street Fort Qu’Appelle, SK (306) 332-5212 231

fine lifestyles regina

fort qu’appelle

Beth Grainger’s Florist & Gifts A destination for design, delight, and desire

BY SHEENA KOOPS

W

alking into Master Florist Beth Grainger’s world is like waltzing into an art-full mosaic. Her shop’s dreamy aisles wind past hand-carved pillars from Thailand, wooden elephants from India, deerantler chandeliers from Manitoba, custom-designed Raku of the valley hills, hand-painted furniture from around the world, cast-iron tea pots, chiming clocks, Tiffany lamps, Franz Porcelain, handpainted tile...the delights go on and on.

National recognition Beth is first and foremost known for her floral design. People purposefully swing

by Fort Qu’Appelle, from all over southern Saskatchewan, to have Beth design for them, and with good reason. Beth completed Flowers Canada Organization’s Floral Design and Management Program, achieving the highest national Spring 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY: J E SSE COVE RT-RUT T EN BERG

The deeper one travels into the treasures, layered and lined along the path, the more maze-like the experience becomes, until the only thing calling the voyager back to reality is the scent of red roses, pink carnations, orange lilies, white mums, yellow daisies and every flower in season (and often those that aren’t). As though coming to an oasis at the end of a journey, the wanderer finds a glass-encased flower garden at the back of the store with exquisitely designed arrangements, ready to go. With more than 70 varieties of flowers in stock at all times, Beth is ready to create a one-of-a-kind arrangement just for you.

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Australia and South America. “I like funky flowers,” she says. Her master design and eclectic merchandise meet and exceed expectations each and every time.

recognition: Canadian Accredited Master Florist. Through a series of exams and peer recognition, Beth joined an elite circle of Master Florists, of which there are only approximately 20 in Canada.

Beth relocated her business in 2000 to her current 4,000-square-foot store in Fort Qu’Appelle, after two previous, smaller locations. This down-to-earth entrepreneur embraces the latest styles and trends in the florist business, and her designs have been provincially recognized with numerous awards within the industry.

With Beth’s vision and skill, her store has morphed into a world-class flower shop and gift emporium. In all seasons, people drop into the shop from all over: Calgary, Winnipeg, the Battlefords, and, of course, Regina. Beth has a loyal (and growing) clientele who trust her, not only to serve all their floral needs, but to bring them distinctive merchandise from around the world.

By making regular runs to gift shows like those in Toronto and Edmonton, Beth searches out one-of-a-kind inventory. She also orders flowers from as far away as Spring 2010

On these sensitive occasions, Beth takes her role seriously. She says, “Everyone’s life story is different. I listen to details about the person, and incorporate something to honour that story. I never do the same casket spray twice.”

Beth also creates original arrangements for graduations, birthdays and larger occasions like the International Lounge at Saskatchewan’s Agribition. Beth is a florist of choice for huge events, as well, like Mozart at Mission Ridge, for which she designed two 10-foot-tall arrangements to grace the stage.

An artist’s heaven

“Floral design and gifts are not just business for Beth, they are her passion.”

Attentive to patrons Beth is also attentive to her local patrons, who trust her intuition, not only seeking her skill in arrangement design, but often asking for advice on decor balance. A few years ago Beth decorated Fort Qu’Appelle resident Darlene Clarke’s home for the St. John’s Anglican Church fundraiser “Holiday Homes.”

“Beth transformed our ordinary bungalow into an elegant Christmas dream,” says Darlene, who teaches in the community.

She adds, “When I’m having a down day or feeling stressed, I go to Beth’s to rejuvenate. Once I’ve spent some time soaked in the beauty, I feel restored.”

Floral design and gifts are not just business for Beth, they are her passion. Beth says, “I love flowers. I always had flowers on my table and still do.” She explains that people often celebrate with a wonderful bottle of wine, but it only lasts an hour, whereas the enjoyment of flowers lingers.

And flowers can be used for any kind of gift or occasion, Beth says: weddings, births, anniversaries and funerals. “Sometimes, especially at funerals, flowers speak words people cannot say.”

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A peek into Beth’s studio area, the edges visible from the counter, attests to her ability to create one-of-a-kind pieces on any scale. She has ribbon and accents in every colour and texture and vases in a wide-selection of sizes, shapes and hues.

Beth says of her back rooms, “It may seem messy, but I think, ‘Look what I can create with this!’” Beth’s studio is a texture artist’s heaven.

Beth Grainger’s Florist & Gifts is a giftbasket full of treasures and sensual pleasures to awaken sentimentality or celebration or romance or all of the above.

Each wall hanging, each angel figurine, each orchid display, each lucky bamboo tray, is in and of itself a work of art, but when arranged by a Master Florist, the entire store becomes a bouquet, and the visitor gladly becomes part of the beauty.

Let Beth Grainger find the perfect designs to delight your desires, gift-giving and florally speaking. And once you’ve shopped for everyone on your list, you might even find a few flowers for yourself and a treasure or two as souvenirs of your pilgrimage into Beth’s world.

You shop the world when you enter Beth Grainger’s Florist & Gifts, a destination store! flr Beth Grainger's Florist and Gifts 141 Broadway Ave. E., Fort Qu'Appelle (306) 332-4309 or 888-306-4309 www.bethgraingers.com www.1-306-flowers.com bethgraingerfloristgift@sasktel.net

fine lifestyles regina

Welcome Wagon celebrates eight decades of service B Y F L R S TA F F

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his year, Welcome Wagon will celebrate 80 years of superb service in Canada. From March until June, celebrations and conferences across the country will recognize outstanding representatives, communities, local services and merchants who have been a part of Welcome Wagon’s services for up to 80 years.

“As the province grows, so does the number of requests we receive for visits,” says Saskatchewan Area Manager Bonny Rossler.

“Welcome Wagon in Saskatchewan is receiving phenomenal numbers of requests for not only newcomer visits, but also from the business community in regard to sponsorship.”

For each visit, the Welcome Wagon representatives provide token gifts from the local sponsors, ranging from a loaf of bread to a magnetic note holder to a car wash. Local information also can include maps, detail of garbage pick-up, library location and hours, and hospital services.

“All across Saskatchewan, in large cities and in smaller communities, Welcome Wagon is the first thing people look to for assistance with the transition of moving to a new neighbourhood,” Rossler says. “We are always on the lookout for communityminded individuals to join our team in extending the hand of friendship.”

Today more than 1,000 Welcome Wagon representatives nationwide work within Spring 2010

their communities to assist, not only with the adjustments and lifestyle changes of the moving and relocation process, but with many other special events as well. Special events are organized for brides-to-be, expectant mothers, grandparents, the semi-retired and the retired. New mothers and their babies are visited in the hospital or at home. There are also business-to-business presentations for executives and professionals when change and movement occur.

As one of the most successful avenues for spreading the word about local products and services, Welcome Wagon has many long-time business partners. In Canada, the organization has maintained its longest partnership with Pharmasave—formerly known as Leonard Fysh Drugs—in the city of Moose Jaw. Pharmasave has been sponsoring Welcome Wagon for more than 60 years, since 1947!

Welcome Wagon also enjoys strong na234

tional associations with many business groups, including the Canadian Council of Better Business Bureau, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Marketing Association, the Direct Marketing Association, the Canadian Employee Relocation Council, and Rotary Clubs in many cities, to name a few.

Thirty years ago Welcome Wagon Ltd. became totally Canadian managementowned. Over the years Welcome Wagon has enjoyed hundreds of citations from civic officials and communities in recognition of its many services. From the organization’s head office in Ontario, 30 employees co-ordinate the Welcome Wagon administrative support, representing more than 13,000 businesses and visiting more than 300,000 households individually each year. flr For more information about Welcome Wagon, visit www.welcomewagon.ca. fine lifestyles regina

#is is our Weyburn. Come discover yours!

PH OTO: WE YBURN TH IS WEEK

A great place to live, work and do business!

The City of Weyburn is located in the heart of Southeast Saskatchewan.

A community steeped in culture and history, Weyburn holds such honours as being home to the Biennial Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show, the world’s first and largest curling museum, and is the largest inland grain gathering point in Canada.

Weyburn is unique because it sits geographically atop the Bakken Oil Field. Further, due to the other special characteristics and an already established energy sector operating in the region, Weyburn is destined to become an energy and food producing powerhouse.

The corporate culture in Weyburn is very professional, productive and cooperative. Weyburn has earned the reputation as headquarters central as regional entities such as the Sun Country Health Region, the Southeast Cornerstone School Division and the Southeast Regional

College have their administrative offices housed here.

Weyburn is ideally located, and is served by excellent transportation options. The Weyburn Airport is located one mile east and one mile north of the city. Conveniently located only 116 kilometres from Regina, the international airport and countless other services are very accessible.

This is a great alternative to big-city living while keeping drive times no greater than crossing any major metropolitan city.

As Weyburn continues this unprecedented growth, it is remaining a very economical place to do business. Commercial taxation rates are among the lowest in the province, infrastructure is strong, housing values remain stable and it is a great place to live, work and invest.

Weyburn is yours to discover!

For more information on Weyburn opportunities contact:

City of Weyburn Phone: (306) 848-3200 Fax: (306) 842-2001 Info: weyburn.ca

Weyburn Chamber of Commerce Phone: (306) 842-4738 Fax: (306) 842-0520 manager@weyburnchamber.com

South East REDA Phone: (306) 842-8001 Fax: (306) 842-0520 manager@southeastreda.com

Weyburn Tourism Phone: (306) 842-8003 Fax: (306) 842-0520 tourism@weyburnchamber.com

weyburn

Weyburn businesses help grow their community and enhance residents’ lives

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ith Weyburn growing at an increasing rate, now is the perfect time to honour and celebrate the local businesses that are integral to enhancing residents’ quality of life, contributing to community spirit, and sustaining the economic prosperity of Weyburn and area. This is exactly what the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce seeks to do with its biennial WEYBEX Awards.

Since 2004, the WEYBEX Awards have been presented to local businesses large and small, to recognize the goals they have striven for and achieved, and honSpring 2010

our their commitment to their employees and community. The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce takes pride in presenting this ultimate award for excellence to the invaluable local businesses that make Weyburn an economic powerhouse.

The Chamber present awards in six categories: New or Expanded Business, Community Involvement, Golden Service, Business Hall of Fame, Business Leader of the Year, and Business of the Year. Winners in each category except for Business of the Year are chosen by an outside party from businesses nominated 236

from within the community. The Business of the Year is selected from the winners of the other five categories.

The 2008 winners The 2008 WEYBEX Awards took place on June 13 to a packed venue, eager to honour and congratulate the winners and nominees alike, who together exemplify business excellence and contribute to the extraordinary quality of life that Weyburn residents and businesses enjoy.

And the winners were...

Odyssey Environmental was awarded the fine lifestyles regina

New or Expanded Business Award. The goal of Odyssey Environmental, started in 2006 by Jon Hutt, is to provide highquality environmental services to meet the needs of the growing oil and gas industry in Southern Saskatchewan and Southwest Manitoba. The company provides a 24-hour spill-response answering service, and employs several professional engineers, agrologists, biologists, hydrogeologists and technologists to ensure all expertise is available in-house to meet project requirements.

Odyssey is the first company in Western Canada to implement the use of unmanned aerial vehicles to obtain lowlevel, high-resolution aerial photographs of subject sites. The company expanded its service area to include Southern Alberta due to its innovation in adaptation and use of new technologies in environmental studies, which has provided it with a competitive advantage over Alberta-based environmental companies.

Odyssey utilizes the latest available technologies to ensure efficient and cost-effective solutions are provided to their clients to further stimulate growth in the local economy, while ensuring the protection of the environment.

Odyssey’s award led to the company being nominated for a Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX award in the fall of 2008 in the New Venture Award and Job Creation Award categories. In 2009, Odyssey merged with Alberta-based company Matrix Solutions Inc.

Auto sales and service companies recognized Redcoat Chrysler was awarded the Golden Service Award. Redcoat Chrysler opened Spring 2010

for business in 1989. It provides automotive sales and service, including sales of new and used vehicles, financing, insurance, leasing repairs and maintenance, parts and accessories, wheels, lift kits, and vehicle rentals. Redcoat takes pride in offering “V.I.P.” packages to preferred customers.

The packages include discounts on accessories as well as complimentary first, fifth and 10th oil changes. The company also offers free shuttle service or loan-out vehicles while repairing or servicing requirements are being met. Redcoat has a high staff retention, which builds customer rapport with, and confidence in, the business.

Two local businesses were given awards in the Business Hall of Fame category: Great Plains Ford and Hillview Sales and Service.

Great Plains Ford was opened in 1978

by Allan Tosczak. Since 2005, his son Jeff has run the company. Great Plains provides sales and service to Weyburn and surrounding area. The company also carries parts, and provides auto-body and detailing services.

Great Plains has always been a major supporter of community charities, events, and sports teams. Great Plains has been awarded Ford Motor Company’s President’s Award, the highest honour that Ford bestows on a dealership, for the past 10 years in a row.

Hillview Sales and Service has been in the automotive repair business for more than 40 years. It was opened in 1966 by Stuart and Heather Stairmand. In 2001 their son Robert took over the business.

Hillview has always prided itself on customer service and quality workmanship.

It is a family-run operation which has never lost sight of community and family. Hillview’s staff retention is an indicator of the quality of the business. It has had three permanent staff besides the owners: two mechanics (one with the company for 30 years and the other for 12 years), and a bookkeeper who has been in place for seven years.

The owners and staff take pride in knowing their customers by name. Robert is known for loaning out his personal vehicle to customers while theirs is being 237

serviced or repaired. Hillview Sales and Service has longstanding relationships with many repeat customers and gains new ones everyday.

Supporting the community Brad Stewart, owner/operator of Stewart Steel, was awarded the Business Leader of the Year Award. Stewart Steel is an internationally recognized quality manufacturer, specializing in agricultural manufacturing, industrial and oilfield fabrication, and production welding.

Brad always recognized the need to expand his facility and equipment as well as market base to ensure company growth. He continually raises company standards to grow his company and employees’ success and standard of work.

Brad is also a proud community supporter and family man. In 2004, Brad was awarded SaskPower’s Power of Business award. In 2006, he was the winner of the Outstanding Achievements in Exports Award at the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX Awards.

The Weyburn Credit Union was awarded the Community Involvement and Business of the Year Awards. The Weyburn Credit Union was started more than 60 years ago. It is locally known for its corporate generosity and community spirit.

Staff members are very involved and active in the community.

The Credit Union is known for its outstanding contribution to recreation, amateur sports, arts, culture, education, and charitable or non-profit groups. In 2008, the Credit Union’s ongoing community development initiatives totalled more than $60,000, all of which helped to grow the community. The more than 80 full-time staff enhance Weyburn residents’ lives and enrich the local community exponentially.

The Weyburn Credit Union’s award win allowed them to be nominated for a provincial ABEX award in the fall of 2008 in the Community Involvement category.

The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce will be proudly hosting this year’s WEYBEX Awards on June 11. flr fine lifestyles regina

T&C Family Restaurant/Dallas Pizza

BY EDWARD WILLETT

PHOTOGRAPHY: KARI F ORT UN E

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&C Family Restaurant/Dallas Pizza in Weyburn has a slogan it likes to use in its advertising: “PIzza—and a whole lot more.”

“T&C/Dallas Pizza makes a great pizza, and we’ve been known for a pizza a long time in Weyburn,” says Anna Georgacacos, who owns restaurant with her husband, Bill. “But when people here think about Dallas Pizza they don’t just think of a typical pizza house. We have a whole lot more, too.”

More than “just a pizza place,” T&C Family Restaurant/Dallas Pizza also offers fine-dining items like steak and shrimp and steak and lobster on a daily basis, plus a variety of Greek dishes. It’s a full and varied menu—and it just got a few brand-new items.

Anna says they try to update the menu every 12 to 18 months. “We always look Spring 2010

at what do we want to add and what are we going to replace, to bring some fresher ideas, new items,” she says. “It’s kind of nice to come to your same favourite environment and same favourite atmosphere and try something new.”

New menu items So what’s new this time around?

“We’ve added three new appetizers,” Anna says. “One is an Indian dish, chicken tikka, succulent chicken drumsticks marinated in a special blend of Indian spices. We have another one, Thai chicken pieces, chicken pieces done in a Thai seasoning.” The third is yam fries.

Also new on the menu is tropical spinach salad. “It starts with a baby spinach leaf, and has dried cranberries, pineapple tidbits, sunflower seeds and grilled scallops, all topped with jack and cheddar cheese and served with a vinaigrette dressing,” Anna says.

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The list of entrees now includes a new pasta, arrabbiata chicken penne, “our own delicious arrabbiata sauce with mushrooms and broccoli and tender chicken, all tossed with penne noodles and shredded parmesan cheese.”

And then there are the Indian dishes. Two of the new items were popular as specials.

“One is a lamb curry, marinated cubes of lamb in traditional Indian curry, served with rice and Naan bread,” Anna says.

“We also have butter chicken, which is tender cubes of chicken in a rich creamy tomato sauce with sides of rice and Naan bread.”

Finally, there’s a seafood curry dish, consisting of jumbo shrimp and scallops in a seafood curry sauce, “brought to us from the coastal shores of India.”

Indian food?

Indian dishes in a Greek-owned Saskatfine lifestyles regina

Fabulous food in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere

chewan restaurant? It might seem a bit unusual, but there’s a good reason for it.

Last year T & C Family Restaurant added five executive chefs from India, all with five-star resort experience. They gave Anna and Bill a taste of authentic Indian cooking, and they were so impressed with that taste that they began incorporating the chefs’ Indian dishes into the specials...two of which have now become full menu items.

Indian cuisine derives its distinctive taste from the spices used in its cooking: cumin, cinnamon and curry, to name just three. Some people think of it as spicy, but it’s not really considered a “hot” spicy (like, say, Mexican food flavoured with jalapenos) but rather a “flavourful” spicy.

Still, everyone has his or her own comfort level when it comes to spice, which is why diners can specify mild, medium or hot when they order one of the Indian meals or specials.

Spring 2010

And, yes, there will still be Indian specials in addition to the new menu items. “A few of the items that are some favourites of the Indian cuisine tend to be a little more difficult to incorporate because of preparation time,” Anna explains. “We’ll still have those as specials.”

She adds, “They still have a lot to tap into yet. They’ve an abundance of knowledge, those young men.”

Indian dishes aren’t the only thing that might be unexpected about T & C Family Restaurant for a newcomer to the establishment.

Elegant but relaxed “We’re proud of our atmosphere here,” says Anna. “When we first did this last renovation, I remember the first day we opened one of our first customers said, ‘I feel like I’m out in Vancouver. I feel like I’ve stepped through the doors off of a street in Weyburn and I’m in Vancou239

ver.’ We’ve got colours that give a lot of light, we’ve got brushed platinum fixtures...it’s a contemporary, elegant look.”

But “elegant” doesn’t mean stuffy. “I don’t want people to feel they have to come in a suit and tie,” Anna says. “Yes, you’re in a fine dining establishment, but you’re still in a friendly warm atmosphere. It’s elegant...but relaxed.”

T & C Family Restaurant/Dallas Pizza opens daily at 10 a.m., except on holidays, when it opens at 4 p.m. During the week the restaurant remains open until 10 p.m. for dine-in, and until midnight for deliveries. On Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open until 2 a.m. for delivery. flr Town N Country Restaurant 72 3rd St NE, Weyburn (306) 842-2933

fine lifestyles regina

A new kind of coffee that actually increases your health B Y A M Y N E L S O N - M I L E

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ooking for one simple thing to improve your health? David Bojic recommends drinking a new kind of coffee: OrGano Gold.

Bojic, owner of Bojic’s Basement and a personal trainer, says his health had been suffering because “I was addicted to regular coffee.” His wife set out to find a healthy coffe, and discovered that OrGano Gold was coming to North America. Very soon after he started drinking it, he no longer had any of the problems he associated with regular coffee—and he found he wasn’t alone.

“Most people feel the effects within the first hour, some within a day or two, and a few within a week,” says Marianne Noad, a holistic health practitioner and business associate with OrGano Gold, which she calls, “a gourmet coffee that tastes wonderful.”

It starts out with the Arabica coffee bean

Spring 2010

but, Noad explains, “The key ingredient is Ganoderma lucidum (also known as Reishi). In China this herb has been held in highest reverence for thousands of years, primarily to build health.” There, she says, it is known to “support the immune system, rejuvenate and oxygenate your body, increase stamina, provide natural detoxification, and increase mental focus.”

Noad says that, among other things, “The caffeine in regular coffee creates a blood-sugar rollercoaster, raises blood pressure, and stimulates appetite—so it makes it very hard to lose weight.”

In addition, Noad says drinking regular coffee is dehydrating, and dehydration can produce headaches, muscle and joint pain, heartburn, constipation, rashes and grogginess. Unlike regular coffee, however, Noad says Healthier Coffee works with the body. “After a couple of cups the body starts to clean and rebalance itself.

You will find you want to drink water, 240

and this hydrates the body.”

Noad says people are reluctant to quit drinking coffee for one or all of three reasons: taste, the social habit, or the temporary increase in energy. OrGano Gold is a perfect alternative. It makes no medical claims, but, Noad says, “we have thousands of coincidences of how people feel after drinking coffee enriched with Reishi.”

As a personal trainer, Bojic says, he found that, “My clients work out physically, and with life being busy, are challenged at times to be at their best nutritionally and also enjoy coffee. A simple switch to OrGano Gold is one of the most perfect complements to a solid exercise program and nutritional boost.” flr

Interested? Contact Bojic at 596-8797 or bojicsbasement@hotmail.com for a free sample. As he puts it, “This is a gift that needs to be shared.” fine lifestyles regina

moose jaw Diverse entertainment in store for

Moose Jaw Cultural Centre audiences B Y L E E PA R E N T

Upcoming Events AT A GLANCE

Saskatchewan Theatre Festival APRIL 4-10, 2010

Lorne Elliott “Chasing the Big Silly” APRIL 24

Moose Jaw Mixx APRIL 30

Living Skies Chorus M AY 7

Inspirational Tenors M AY 1 4

Habitat For Humanity Fundraiser M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 0

Kinsmen Band Festival M AY 1 8 - ? ? , 2 0 1 0

Eclipse M AY ? ?

National Youth Choir M AY ? ?

Moose Jaw Cultural Centre Mae Wilson Theatre - CONEXUS Visual Arts Centre 217 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK Tel: (306) 693-4700 Email: mjcc@shaw.ca

www.moosejawculture.com/events.htm

Spring 2010

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s spring melts into summer, local residents welcome opportunities to celebrate the best of Saskatchewan seasons by seeking light-hearted entertainment. The Moose Jaw Cultural Centre certainly does its part to provide diverse options, and Graham J. Hall, the organization’s Artistic/Executive Director, recently outlined some of them.

“April begins with the Saskatchewan Theatre Festival from April 4 to 10,” he says. “Later in the month there’s the appearance of Lorne Elliott (“Chasing the Big Silly”) on April 24. (More information will be forthcoming on the website at moosejawculture.com.) Bringing April to a close is a concert by Moose Jaw Mixx on April 30.

As May progresses, several unique musical presentations will enhance the sounds of summer in Moose Jaw. On May 7, the Centre will welcome the Living Skies Chorus, a barbershop-harmony group from Regina. The Living Skies Chorus advertises itself as “a singing and fun-loving organization” which enjoys learning new music and entertaining. They welcome guests at the regular meetings, whether those visitors want to participate or simply observe, and their public performances offer the same sense of fun and hospitality. Their website, www.harmonize.com/regina, is also quite informative.

On a slightly different musical note, the Inspirational Tenors will appear at the Centre on May 14 at 8 p.m. This terrific new group was brought together by the same people who created the Canadian Tenors and offers uplifting music enjoyable for audiences of all ages. Then, on May 18, the Kinsmen Band Festival begins, continuing a 60-year-old tradition that is renowned across the country. This Festival attracts more than $1 million to Moose Jaw during those three days in May, and provides excellent entertainment besides.

Opening the Festival Tuesday evening is the guest performing group Eclipse, a vocal jazz group from Saskatoon, under the direction of BJ Harris. Wednesday’s performers will be the National Youth Choir, following an appearance by last year’s guests, the National Youth Band. For more information on this unique event visit www.mjkinsmenfestival.com where you’ll be amazed by the scope of performances, past and future, in the festival’s repertoire.

The Moose Jaw Cultural Centre offers a tremendous venue for charitable events this spring, adding an element of elegance to these fundraisers. On May 13 the Habitat For Humanity fundraiser will feature a silent auction and a concert by the BJ Harris Band, and the month of May will close with a similar event for the Concert of Hope.

So as Saskatchewan basks (we hope) in a summer of clear blue skies and mellow sunshine, residents and visitors can enjoy all that’s offered by the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre in one of the loveliest settings that the province has to offer. flr 241

fine lifestyles regina

moose jaw

Spring 2010

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Showhome Hours: Monday - Thursday 7:00 - 9:00 Weekends & Holidays 1:00 - 5:00

Featuring Seven of Regina’s Finest Builders

Spring 2010

Parade of Homes

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 www.finelifestyles.ca

Spring 2010 • VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 • www.finelifestyles.ca

Up Close and Personal with Paul & Carol Hill Regina’s Best Businesses, Products & Services

Spring Landscape Feature

Spring Fashion Trends

Exclusive Interview with New Rider GM Brendan Taman

Room-to-Room Renos

Gail Bowen: Mistress of Murder and Mystery

Home Builders’ Parade of Homes

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