FineLifestyles Regina Fall 2010 by Fine

Autumn 2010 10

Feature Story A heck of a party: Roughriders’ centennial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Style

A D.A.M. good experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Jewellery Factory: Worth looking for . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Curvaceous Boutique: Big dreams, big styles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Salon Zenza: A fresh new look . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Durands: No business like shoe business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Janie Rose: Personal Shopper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Expert advice: Hair Colouring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Northgate Optical on Rochdale measuring success with smile. . . . . . . . 47 Saving Grace Hair Salon: Organic Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 KC Coins: All that glitters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Arts, Entertainment & Dining

Ed Willett: A fantastic life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 SimAIR’s Gallery: International, local & unique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 From Scratch: Saving time, money & Stress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Royal Saskatchewan Museum: Ancient Hunters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Willetts on Wine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Amalgamated Charities: Bingo! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 The Brickhouse Bistro: A “perfect little eatery” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Entertainment Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

House & Home Dependable Vacuums Plus: Breathe a little easier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Expert Advice: Foundations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Expert Advice: Buying a home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Alliance Plumbing: Caring, competent, professional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Bedroom Communities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Expert Advice: Real estate law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 CK One: Cozying up to autumn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Phillips Shades & Blinds: Beautiful Blinds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Casa Decor: An ideal outing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Building a custom home: The freedom to choose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 DGL Suncoast: More outdoor living. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Western Cleaners: The choice is clear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Business Regina & District Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Micro-Age: Opportunity for Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Daryl Yasinowski: Building Portfolios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Regina Centre Crossing: The hottest new business location . . . . . . . . . . 118 Regina Memorial Gardens: Helping people heal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Duncan Bonneau Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Expert Advice: Personal financial modelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128 Jay’s Moving: Moving forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

121

Wheels Dreams on wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Porsche Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 TRUCK FEATURE: BUMPER TO BUMPER Canada Truck Accessories: A truck lovers dream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 Cardinal Automotive: Modern technology, old-fashioned values . . . . . . . 148 Graham’s Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151 Smoke ‘Em Diesel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 Line-X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155

Health & Wellness Latest Fitness Crazes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158 Soma Salon & Spa: Finding “me time” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161 Shedd Laser Therapy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163 Expert Advice: Skin Rejuvenation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168 Oxford Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169 Expert Advice: Skin Care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170 Weightloss Forever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171 Vimridge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176 Expert Advice: Hearing loss & Mp3 players. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178 Expert Advice: Custom Meds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179 Mrs. Canada Beauty Pageant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

Sports, Rec & Leisure

161

196

Minard’s Leisure World: Treating people right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182 Regina Pats’ Owner Brent Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184 Extreme Hockey: The extreme team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187 Rod Pederson on the Regina Pats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191 Expert Advice: Skate fitting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193 Saskatchewan Travel Destinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

Moose Jaw Christmas in October . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202 Cranberry Rose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 Designs by Jillian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209 Radiant Skin Care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215 The Hibiscus Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219 The Willow Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

201

Autumn 2010 V O L U M E

1 ,

I S S U E

Editor Edward Willett ewillett@sasktel.net

Graphic Design & Layout Melissa Taylor meltaylor.meltmedia@gmail.com

Logo Design Melissa Taylor meltaylor.meltmedia@gmail.com

In-house Design Christa Bilsky Pete Lawrence

A note from

the editor

Joni Gaudette Terrin Kaminski

Cover Photography Captured by Cassidy Photography www.capturedbycassidy.com

Photography

n Saskatchewan, you know it’s fall when you hear that familiar, haunting call ringing out across the landscape...

Go, Riders, Go! Go, Riders Go! Yes, it’s the height of football season, and this is a particularly special season, because it’s the Roughriders’ Centennial year. A hundred years ago, Saskatchewan had only been a province for five years. The province and the Riders have grown up together, which makes this year’s celebration of the Riders’ Centennial equally a celebration of the province. What better cover story for this issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina, then, than the story of the Riders’ Centennial celebrations, and who better to write it than Rod Pedersen, the Voice of the Riders? But there’s much more in this jam-packed issue. We’ve got a feature on Christmas in October, Moose Jaw’s annual shopping extravaganza. There’s a story on the latest fitness trends (and where to find them in Regina). We’ve got a feature on bedroom communities, and two great features about cars: one on the launch of Porsche of Saskatchewan, and another on the world-famous Barrett Jackson Car Collector Auction in Scottsdale, which draws car aficionados from all over the world...including Regina. In addition to the cover story, Rod Pedersen has his regular Regina Pats column, and we’ve also got a feature on Brent Parker, owner of the Pats. The Willetts on Wine are back (naturally) with a column on expanding your wine horizons by trying unusual grape varieties. And I guess I should mention that we’ve also got a feature on an award-winning Regina writer with a new young adult fantasy novel set in Regina coming out this fall. (That happens to be me, but honest, the feature was the publisher’s idea, not mine!) Last, but certainly not least, we’ve got dozens of features on Regina’s very best businesses and services. Take a look: you’ll be amazed by what our city has to offer. And go, Green! –Edward Willett

| Autumn 2010

Captured by Cassidy Photography www.shutterbugphoto.ca Trash My Dress Photography Lauri Wiburg Photography Vienna Di Ruscio Photography Kris Brandhagen Photography Shawn Fulton Photography

Contributing Writers Brian Bowman Kris Brandhagen Mackenzie Brooks Tobie Hainstock Carter Haydu Trilby Henderson

Ryan Holota Sheena Koops Francois Magny Marie Powell Mendenhall Amy Nelson-Mile Lee Parent Rod Pedersen

Carol Todd Alexandra Walld Edward Willett Margaret Anne Willett Darryl Yasinowski

Publishers Randy Liberet Wayne UnRuh

Office Manager Tracy Shaw 306.539.8779 Tracy@FineLifestyles.ca

Advertising Consultants Paige Mihalicz 306.537.9892 Paige@FineLifestyles.ca Brooke Watson 306.551.4789 Brooke@FineLifestyles.ca Todd Elik 306.501.5028 Todd@FineLifestyles.ca Randy Glascock 306.526.4957 RandyG@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

Website www.finelifestyles.ca Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon 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 2009/2010 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 Saskatoon, 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 company’s 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.

A heck of a party The Saskatchewan Roughriders are 100 years old, and the Centennial excitement is everywhere BY ROD PEDERSEN VOICE OF THE RIDERS

he Saskatchewan Roughriders turned 100 years old in 2010—and the province has had one heck of a party for its favourite football team! In anticipation of the celebrations, the Roughriders hired Randy Dove as General Manager of the Roughrider Centennial. The results have been staggering. Dove initially appeared on the Roughrider scene eight years ago, when he was put in place to oversee the 2003 Grey Cup at Taylor Field. His fine work landed him in charge of the 100-year anniversary festivities. Along with a strong volunteer committee, the group

| Autumn 2010

came up with a massive schedule of events across the province, including:

keting in the 2010 season and was used in Rider TV advertisements;

• The launch of Centennial Rider merchandise in March, available at all Rider Store locations (Mosaic Stadium and Northgate Mall in Regina and Centre at Circle and Eighth in Saskatoon);

• 82 individuals in the province who turned 100 in the year 2010 received a congratulatory document from the Centennial Committee.

• Murals of the Roughriders’ current retro logos, installed on the McCallum Hill Towers in downtown Regina; • A pancake breakfast in Regina in late May; • Production of a promotional DVD on the history of the Riders, which drove Rider mar-

• 80 communities in the province who were incorporated in 1910 (the same year as the Riders’ first season) were honoured with a birthday basket from the football team, which included exclusive banners and prints and the Rider 100-year history book; • The 100 longest continuous season ticket holders were recognized and honoured by the

• Five professional Saskatchewan artists were commissioned to produce original Roughrider paintings, on display in Regina’s Dunlop Art Gallery. There was a student component, with three high-school students adding art as well; • All season-ticket booklets (roughly 25,000 in all) are Centennial-themed; • Canada Post launched a commemorative centennial envelope in July; • The Royal Canadian Mint launched the “Rider Loonie” in September;

PHOTOS BY CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

club—some dated back to 1937;

• The “Where’s Riderville” community contest drew 37 entries, with Avonlea, Saskatchewan being crowned the winner, based on 269,000 votes cast online for the initiative. Avonlea received $25,000 from the Roughriders, which will be put towards the start of a minor football program; • Partners In Motion developed a one-hour documentary on the history of the Roughriders; • The 2010 Canadian Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held in Saskatoon on August 14; • There will be a Centennial-themed luncheon at Grey Cup in Edmonton in November; • The original Gainer The Gopher car was restored with the cooperation of Peacock Collegiate students in Moose Jaw, and has been used for a number of events and will be in the 2010 Grey Cup parade in Edmonton;

Swept up in Rider Pride It’s impossible to go anywhere in Saskatchewan without seeing the S logo, the colours green and white, and the 100-year anniversary logo. The province’s population of over a million strong has gotten completely swept up in Rider Pride. The reaction of the fans caught the team itself somewhat offguard. “Yes I think it did. And why? Because of the fans,” says Rider President Jim Hopson. “The fans made Riderville what it was. I mean, 40 entries? Places like Yorkton, Avonlea and Unity and so forth really embraced this, but not just them. Places like Qu’Appelle, Swift Current, Estevan and Indian Head...and on and on it goes. They just took the ball and ran and had so much fun with it.

“That was big. Then the way they responded to the coin...the Royal Canadian Mint tells us this has been the biggest response they’ve had to any coin launch ever outside of the Olympics. That really says something. So we’ve had tremendous fan support, and again, that shouldn’t surprise us because that’s what Rider fans do.” The Centennial committee itself was overwhelmed by the province’s reaction and, if possible, it has instilled even more love for the Canada’s Team within the province’s borders and beyond with all citizens of the Rider Nation. “The province has been really receptive,” reports Randy Dove. “The amount of positive

feedback in letters and emails to Jim Hopson has been greater than we would have anticipated. “I have to say I’m not really surprised. I thought we had a good list of celebrations and with the cooperation of Rider staff and some key volunteers that I added, things really took off.”

Riderville Contest a hit Dove says the biggest single promotion “might have been the ‘Where’s Riderville’ contest, because that really captured the imagination of the province and communities. That exceeded expectations.”

Autumn 2010

| 11

PHOTOS BY CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

cover story The contest earned wide-spread media coverage throughout Saskatchewan, and the announcement of Avonlea as the winner was chronicled by every media outlet. In its report, on www.cbc.ca, the CBC noted that “the Roughrider-crazy village of Avonlea,” with a population of just around 400, had beat out four other communities to win $25,000 and “bragging rights” to be known as Riderville. “For months, homes and businesses in the community have been festooned with greenand-white Riders decals and colours,” CBC noted. “The village’s green street-sweeping machine was outfitted with stickers and a Riders flag. On the highway, motorists could see a sign with a goal post design touting Avonlea as Riderville.” According to the story, Avonlea, located about 60 kilometres southeast of Regina, received about 30 percent of the roughly 270,000 online votes cast, beating out Nipawin, Yorkton, Weyburn and Unity. “The says it plans to use the winnings to start a youth football team,” CBC reported, and

| Autumn 2010

erville, the loonie and so on, are behind us. Labour Day really put us in the homestretch because we wanted to let the focus be on the team in the second half and playoffs. It’s been tremendous. “In mid-September we unveiled the documentary of the franchise and it brought a tear to my eye. It really brought into focus what this team means to this province.” Dove says the scheduling of events had a purpose, and that was to leave the focus of the province on the football club through the autumn months. An interesting twist to Centennial celebrations was the introduction of retro red-andblack uniforms for the Riders to honour the outfits the club wore from 1912 to 1947. In a Week 3 home game against Edmonton, the Roughriders wore the uniforms, and at the game’s conclusion the jerseys were presented to the lucky winners of a draw of Rider season ticket holders.

Unbeaten at home The Roughrider team has done its part to keep its fans on the edge of their seats following their fortunes on the gridiron. Through the club’s opening nine games—the first half of the season—the team played before sellouts in each and every home game. and they were 5-0 at Mosaic Stadium to start the year.

concluded, “Along with the money and a ‘Riderville’ highway sign, Avonlea will receive a one-day football camp hosted by Rider players, coaches and alumni.” Randy Dove says that, in the end, Avonlea was head and shoulders above the other communities in the running for the award. “They won because they organized themselves in an unbelievable way,” Dove explains. “For a community of 400 people to gather together with that much creative thought and put into action is unbelievable. When you go to Avonlea it’s Riderville from the moment you enter to the moment you leave. Whether it’s peoples’ homes and yards, storefronts, street signs, special exhibits, painting main

| Autumn 2010

street green or just talking to the people about how much they wanted to win the contest for the bragging rights and pride. We met a woman who was 102 years old at the party who was outfitted all in green and loved the Roughriders so much.”

By Labour Day weekend, the Riders held a 63 record. which was good enough for secondplace in the CFL’s tough West Division. The Riders won Labour Day Classic XLIV by a 27-23 margin over their prairie rivals, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. The match drew a capacity crowd of 30,048 fans of both teams.

Although the vast majority of the events came and went before the Labour Day weekend, there are still a few festivities on the calendar before the 2010 season runs out.

“You know, it’s funny, we sellout every game now, but we used to only have sellouts on Labour Day,” Hopson admits. “But there’s still something special about Labour Day. It’s still amazing to see the number of Blue Bomber fans that are here and are able to get tickets. It’s a good thing. It also seems to set the tone for our team for the back-half of the season. I now our players have talked about the importance of winning Labour Day and going into the fall on a winning note.”

“We have our official birthday party coming up and a few other things,” notes Jim Hopson. “So many of the big events, like Rid-

As always, the Riders have had their ups and downs throughout the course of the season. After a 3-0 start, the Riders were bombed

A few more festivities to go

the Montreal Alouettes in Calgary. However, home-field advantage is once again the goal in 2010. “It’s really important to get a home playoff game,” Hopson offers. “It just positions you so well to get to the Grey Cup, which is our ultimate goal. We saw that in our lean years where we couldn’t get a home playoff game, so we had to win on the road twice to get to the Grey Cup, and that’s really tough. “First place is the next goal, because you get a week off in November and get to rest and get healthy and you’re at home. Second place would be our minimum expectation, but then there’s the business side. It’s a big dollargenerator to have a home playoff game, and it sets the tone for the fans for the next year. It’s very important, and we’d be very disappointed in our business plan if we didn’t secure a home playoff game.” Hopson is alluding to the fact that hosting a playoff game pours approximately $1 million into the coffers, and last season it went a long ways towards the franchise posting a profit of $3.14-million. However, the club’s accountants don’t budget for home playoff games. “No, we don’t,” Hopson explains. “We’ve never budgeted for a home playoff game. We know what it costs to run and what the ramifications are, but we don’t put it in our projections because it’s an unknown whether you get to host the game or not. We also know that playoff games on the road cost you money, but they’re better than no playoff games at all.”

A worthwhile investment 40-20 in Week 4 in Calgary, which set off a month of turbulence where the football team was unable to put back-to-back wins together. The club is striving for consistency down the homestretch and into the playoffs. “When you start the year you break it into thirds and halves,” Hopson reasoned. “If somebody told me before the year, ‘You’ll be 6-3’ at Labour Day, I would’ve said, “That’s great!”, because it positions us well. I look back on the Edmonton game and think it should’ve been a win, or the game in Montreal and they rankle. On the other hand, people could say we won some games we shouldn’t have. I think we put ourselves in a good position for the second half.

| Autumn 2010

“We’ve been inspired by our defense. because they’ve really come together at the right time. And our offense started out great, stumbled, but got it back together. It’s going to be a dogfight right down to the wire across the whole league.”

Home-field playoff the goal In 2009, the Roughriders finished in first place for the first time since 1976. with a record of 10-7-1 and they achieved home field advantage in the coveted West Division Final, and a bye in the opening week of the playoffs. That enabled them to advance to the Grey Cup. where they succumbed 28-27 to

The Centennial celebrations themselves weren’t expected to be a cash-cow for the operation and even a small money-losing proposition wouldn’t have been problem. Fortunately, that won’t be the case. “We are on track to make a small surplus as the result of the support of the 15 Centennial sponsors and the three media sponsors plus the sale of merchandise,” notes Randy Dove. “That’s been better than budget. We think we’ll come out of this slightly ahead of breakeven, and that was a goal. “We saw this as an investment to reach out across the province and the country, solidify the brand, build for tomorrow and make sure that all people who supported this team for a

long time were recognized. It was a chance to give back to people, so the goal wasn’t to make money. It was to engage the communities and their support of the club. With sponsors prepared to make an investment in this, it means we’ll make a few bucks. That’s not critical, though. We wanted a celebration.” All in all, 2010 has turned out to be a banner year for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, and the interest and hype surrounding the team is certainly at an all-time high. The club’s onfield success has attributed to the hysteria, but has also ramped up expectations. “We’re having a good year and it’s interesting that as you go along, the culture has changed so much,” Hopson observes. “A couple of years ago we would’ve been over-the-moon to be 6-3 at Labour Day, but now that’s what people expect, and that’s a positive thing. Over the long-haul, this franchise won’t be successful if we think 3-3 or 5-4 is good enough. It’s really a change of culture and expectations right from every person in the organization to every fan of the Riders.”

“An outstanding celebration” The province of Saskatchewan has had 100 years to build up its torrid love affair for the Green and White, and it’s only served to whet the fans’ appetite for the next 100 seasons. Although it’s not yet time to reflect on all that’s gone on over the past several months, the Centennial committee can certainly afford to look back on a job well done. “I would say it’s been an outstanding celebration and an opportunity to engage longtime supporters and some new areas like arts and culture,” Dove reflects. “I just think it’s certainly been successful. We’re really proud of how well people across the province and beyond have grasped the 100-year birthday of the team and see how important it is. “The thing that sticks out for me is how the Riders are important to the communities in this province, no matter where you go. The amount of passion and effort the communities put forward, and the unifying force the Riders are, that to me is a terrific lesson. That transcends the Centennial: what the team means to this province.”

| Autumn 2010

PHOTOS BY CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

cover story

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

style our motto,” says owner and chief creative stylist Daniel McDonald. The back of the salon features a wire wall lounge, where inspiring words and photographs of the salon’s clients and models separate you from the rest of the space. Modern black-leather furniture lets you sit back and truly relax. The rest of the salon features art selected from up-and-coming local artists; all of the pieces are available for purchase. “We reach out to local artists and give them space to display and sell their work. It’s like a modern gallery in a salon,” McDonald says. A mix of music ranging from hip hop to blues softly fills the room to round off the complete sensory experience. Daniel Allen McDonald, the man behind the creation of The D.A.M. Hair Company, is proud of what he has created. “I really wanted to do something different. My salon is comfortable, but industrial. It’s the kind of place where everything looks great, but you can walk in with your winter boots and not worry about making a bit of a mess. There are accessories, but your kids can run around without you being afraid of them breaking something. I really thought about my clients when I designed the space, and what they would want to see and what would make them feel comfortable.”

Design. Beauty. Art.

“A D.A.M. good experience!” Regina’s most innovative salon combines edgy cool with friendly, cozy comfort BY RYAN HOLOTA

isitors and customers to The D.A.M. Hair Company are treated to a rich, innovative design that combines the functionality of a salon with the atmosphere of a high-end lounge; every element of the salon is designed with the customer in mind. Clients can surf the net on the free Wi-Fi network, sit at the stainless steel bar watching TV, or enjoy a cup of Keurig brewed tea or coffee. “A D.A.M. good experience, that’s

When it comes to design, McDonald has the credentials to back up his beliefs. A fun, energetic guy with a passion for life, he entered the world of hair because of an egg roll. “It was a Friday night and I was looking through the yellow pages for a Chinese food restaurant. When I opened the phone book, I found an ad for a styling school. I attended class on Monday morning. That was 14 years ago.” While working in some of the most popular shops in Winnipeg, McDonald also began to explore another creative outlet: photography. Using his eye for detail and beauty, McDonald experimented with professional photography by shooting Autumn 2010

| 29

Comfortable. Friendly. Sugar. With the opening of The D.A.M. Hair Company, McDonald sought to create a location that was comfortable for all of his clients to come to; a place where they could feel at home. The staff is outrageously fun and friendly, and the mood is casual. The staff actually invite their clients to drop by anytime, not just to have work done, but to sit and enjoy the environment. There are two tables at the front of the salon, and the coffee machine makes each cup fresh when you want it. Visit with the staff or with your friends. And don’t forget to bring your kids. “We love it when our clients bring their kids by the store. We have a huge selection of candy, and we love to give it out.” McDonald likes to go the extra mile for his clients. Women’s Nights are a highly successful feature of his salon, where groups of five to 10 people (friends or coworkers) will come by to hang out and have their hair done. They’ll bring in food and drinks, turn the music up a little louder, and basically have a good time with friends. “These nights are really focused on the client; letting them feel comfortable and let loose a little bit.”

weddings, graduations and glamour shots of his own clients. In 2006 he enrolled in graphic-design school and created corporate logos, charity posters and other design work while he was working as a stylist.” Having devoted his life to making things look great, he shares his philosophy on working with clients. “A stylist’s job is to make you look edgy and trendy, but to keep you within the bounds of your own comfort zone.” This doesn’t mean that everybody needs drastic change, however: “Sometimes even small changes, executed well, can make a huge difference in your overall appearance.” 30

| Autumn 2010

PHOTO BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

competitions and have just returned from an exclusive Redken three-day training program in Montreal to keep their styles and cuts trendy and to make sure that they can provide their clients with the highest level of expertise. Competitions are also a great way for them to build stronger relationships with their clients, as the models they choose are volunteers from their pool of clients. The D.A.M. Hair Company is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

With four creative team stylists on staff (Daniel, Halima, Myrna and Julia), The D.A.M. Hair Company has something for everyone. Offering all of the services that you would expect (colours, cuts, perms, men’s, women’s, children’s, chemical relaxants, extensions and graduation and bridal services), The D.A.M. Hair Company had to find a way to kick it up a notch. To accomplish this, The D.A.M. Hair Company opened as a Premiere Flagship Redken Salon, offering a comprehensive selection of retail products and colour lines. Lining the back wall of the salon, a glistening set of stainless steel cupboards forms a Redken Colour Bar and Workstation designed exclusively for the D.A.M. Hair Company. The colour bar is a dream come true for those looking to change their hair colour. Containing five different Redken colour lines, hundreds of dyes and all of the mixing tools and developing chemicals that a professional needs to make clients look their best, the colour bar is a shining gem in the store. “With these products, we can create any colour imaginable, and recreate it exactly for you the next time that you come in. We are proud of the work that we do with colour, and we want to show it off.” Says Daniel, “It’s important that customers see what you

are doing and the talent it takes to select and mix the right products for your hair.” The creative team stylists are also wellversed in working with hair that you didn’t grow yourself. Experts at wig styling, they can help you take your wig to the next level. If you already have some hair, but just need more of it, there are two hair extension specialists who style handwoven human hair extensions into your hair that can blend in, complement or contrast with your current colour. If you have difficult, frizzy, naturally curly or ethnic hair, they can handle that too, and give you advice on how to get the best results from your style once you get home.

Learning. Challenging. Growing. “One of the things our industry doesn’t do well is provide stylists with a longterm career. I wanted to change that and provide a great environment that helps each stylist constantly progress in their careers through training, self-directed programs, competitions, marketing and a unique commission structure. I believe we have the model for a successful 21stcentury salon.” The team enjoys hairstyling competitions and trains regularly. Team members have placed very well in recent regional

The D.A.M. Hair Company 2719 Quance St. E. 525-2700 thedamhaircompany@sasktel.net On Facebook (search The Dam Hair Company) PHOTO BY ELESSAR DESIGNS

Unique service. Unique services.

goldsmith. The Jewellery Factory is an excellent place to take broken and damaged jewellery. Because of the artistry of the goldsmiths, they are able to repair even the most badly damaged jewellery at their location—meaning that the piece never leaves the city. Because you don’t have to wait for shipping, most repairs can be made in less than a week, and same-day service is available on request.

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

Something old, something new

Worth looking for This long-established jewellery store definitely qualifies as “a hidden gem” BY RYAN HOLOTA

estled in the heart of an industrial area is one of the hidden gems of Regina: The Jewellery Factory. Known for its beautiful, one-of-a-kind jewellery creations and excellent customer service, The Jewellery Factory is tough to find, but worth looking for. The current owners, Antoni and Grazyna (Gina) Siwic took over The Jewellery Factory in 1998, but their history with the store goes back much further than that. Toni was trained by European goldsmiths and began working at the Jewellery Factory in 1985. Gina began working for the company in 1993, and also underwent training as a 32

| Autumn 2010

Recycling old and unwanted jewellery is becoming a popular reason to visit a goldsmith. Many clients will gather pieces of jewellery that they no longer want and have them transformed into something new. With today’s high cost of gold, reusing gold from pieces that you no longer wear is a great way to bring a beautiful new piece into your jewellery box. Of course, the Jewellery Factory also has an extensive line of ready-made pieces, each carefully selected from various jewellery shows that the couple travels to each year. While these pieces may not be custom-made for you, their beauty and uniqueness may lead you to believe that they were. Diamonds and other precious stones are very popular additions to jewellery, and the selection at The Jewellery Factory can fulfill the desires of everyone. Having taken many classes on grading and stone setting, Toni and Gina are experts at dealing with diamonds. “Many of our clients are very educated about diamonds, and it is important to deal with a jeweler who can help answer the difficult questions and steer you in the right direction,” they say. The Jewellery factory is proud to offer only diamonds which are verified as being conflict-free. It also offers a line of Canadian-mined diamonds, giving you the confidence of knowing exactly where your stones came from.

style

Custom jewellery Creating a new piece of jewellery involves first designing the piece on paper. Toni sits down with the customer to discuss his or her vision for the finished piece. Often, the piece is inspired by another item that the client has seen; perhaps in a magazine or online, or a family heirloom. Wedding bands and engagement rings are the specialty at The Jewellery Factory, but no piece is out of the realm of possibility. Once a design is drawn on paper, the goldsmith begins carving the jewellery out of wax. Once the wax carving is complete the client may inspect the piece— the final gold piece will be an exact duplicate of this carving. This carving is created like a fine piece of art, with the most delicate of tools, to create a memory that will last a lifetime. Because these steps are all done by hand, no two rings are ever exactly the same. Each piece is truly custom-made, just for you or your loved one. Because the process is so hands-on and the quality of the materials is so high, each piece is substantial and sturdy, even though it may look very delicate. Most pieces usually take three to four weeks, but in some emergency cases can be completed in as little as 48 hours. Custom jewellery is more popular today than ever before. Often the pieces are intended for weddings; rings can be created so that the bride’s ring and groom’s ring match, or a unique piece out of the client’s imagination can be created. Other clients are looking to have a ring made that matches another piece—an anniversary band that perfectly matches the wedding band and engagement ring, for example. Pieces can be made to match any budget, so stop by and talk to Toni directly for an estimate.

regular customers and a long list of satisfied clients, The Jewellery Factory has worked with multiple generations of customers. It is not unusual for the children of past clients to come in and have rings created for their weddings, just as Toni and Gina did for their parents before them. With this kind of loyalty, Toni and Gina feel as much a part of your family as you

will feel part of theirs. When visiting the store, be sure to look behind the counter and say hi to Joey, a lovable, friendly and furry member of the staff. The Jewellery Factory 558 10th Ave. (South of Dewdney, east of Winnipeg)

Friends, family and fur One of the oldest jewellery stores in Regina, The Jewellery Factory was founded in the 1970s and is still in the same location today. With a following of

Autumn 2010

| 33

“I wanted to create a shop that was comfortable and allowed plus-sized women to develop their idea of what fashion could be for them,” Andrea says. “I often hear plus-sized women say they want to stay away from colour, from prints and from cuts and lengths that will show off their curves. To me, fashion is not about the size on the tag, but about how you feel when you know you are looking your best. I want to help plus-sized women change their ideas about fashion and enhance their shopping experience. Maybe in that way I can change their ideas about themselves too.”

The latest products

Big dreams, big styles Chic and cozy boutique helps plus-sized women put their best fashion foot forward BY MACKENZIE BROOKS One year ago, when owner Andrea Carratt opened Curvaceous Boutique in its chic and cozy location on south Albert Street in Regina, she envisioned a shop that would sparkle and dazzle. Living up to such grand design and superior vision might have been a daunting task to some, but for Andrea it was a challenge that she had been preparing for her whole life long. It had to be a place where clients would feel comfortable, yet exclusive, where plus-sized women could discover more about fashion—and most of all, it had to be pretty. With a background in fashion, retail and esthetics, Andrea Carratt has built herself, and the city of Regina, a solid boutique that is small on space and big on style. Andrea used her eye for detail and design to finally realize her dream: owning Regina’s premiere plussize boutique. With it, she has also realized a new dream: to help plus-sized women regain their fashion confidence and put their best foot forward.

| Autumn 2010

Andrea’s clients have the benefit of strolling through a shop of the season’s latest luxury products in beautiful fabrics, colours and textures. They also have the benefit of Andrea’s ear as well. “I’ve heard so many clients tell me that they have given up on fashion because they are tired of the limited choices plus-sized women have. My goal is to give them options for style and also for wardrobe building. Every woman is beautiful in many ways, and her clothes are a reflection of who she is and what image she wants others to see. “What are you saying about yourself if you’re limited to such narrow choices in plus-sized fashion? I don’t want you to just put on something that covers you. I want you to put on something that celebrates you.” This led Andrea to do more research and to bring in particular styles of clothing and accessories that bring out the personality of the wearer and encourage them to take risks they otherwise might never take. Building on the trend of plus-sized fashion lines, which continue to grow across Canada, Andrea saw an opportunity to meet the needs of an under-represented market in Regina. Carrying such lines as Monif C, Kiyonna, Svoboda, Igigi and Darren Trentacosta, as well as many new Canadian fashion lines like Lotis and Echo Rain, Curvaceous Boutique can

outfit women of all ages and sizes. “I really wanted to be able to tailor my stock to maintain the uniqueness of the boutique and also to help plus-sized women recognize their own uniqueness. You won’t find many of the same items at Curvaceous Boutique so my customers know that they are getting special pieces,” says Andrea.

More than just clothing Inspired by celebrities like Queen Latifah and Camryn Manheim, and empowered with the knowledge that her clients are grateful to finally be able to express their individuality and style, Andrea has made sure Curvaceous Boutique is not limited to just clothing. The boutique also stocks shoes and Canadian designer Sassy Cassy’s boots with wider calves, as well as hand-made accessories. Andrea is extremely happy with how her first year of business has turned out for her and for her clients. She is already looking to the future. “I would like to be able to continue to build relationships, friendships even, with my clients as well as with new designers. I don’t do that just by making sales, but by listening to what clients really want and by helping them to make new and better fashion choices. I want to continue to be able to provide stylish options and push boundaries that will bring plus-sized fashion fully in line with straight-sized fashion,” says Andrea. “I want to see Curvaceous Boutique and its clients’ ideas about fashion bloom. I want Curvaceous Boutique to be a destination where you go to find what’s meant for you.” Plans for the future include more sizes and new labels without ever compromising the boutique feel of the shop. To visit with Andrea, to browse the beautiful shop and to find what’s meant for you, visit Curvaceous Boutique at 4049 Albert Street. And be sure to check it out online on its Facebook fan page, “Curvaceous Boutique.” Curvaceous Boutique 4049 Albert St. 522-8789 curvaceous@sasktel.net

A fresh new look Change, renewal and rejuvenation sweeps south-end hair salon parking ticket.

“We must always change, renew, rejuvenate ourselves; otherwise we harden.” — Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

air stylist and former business owner and instructor Tiffany Peace was ready for change, renewal and rejuvenation. So was a busy south-end hair salon.

Salon Zenza is the new name of the hair studio once known as Fine Lines Hair Design. “I took over ownership of the salon in March and have been making some cosmetic changes over the summer months,” says Peace. The walls may have new paint colours and the flowers may have been replaced by bamboo, but four of the current six stylists stayed to work for Peace and the salon has not skipped a beat (or missed a layer, in this case!).

Experience meets freshness and comfort “Our staff has an abundance of hair experience, as well as a developed and loyal clientele,” states Peace. “I have previous ownership experience as well as have cut hair for 10 years. All in all, we have an established salon that provides consistent, creative and confident service.” Instructing hair at Regina’s well-known Richards Beauty College and Esthetics for a year also gave Peace the opportunity to be on the other side of the beauty industry while she helped mold up-and-coming stylists. Salon Zenza, as symbolized in the name, offers a fresh, casual and comfortable atmosphere to those getting a cut and colour or to those simply stopping by to purchase product. Tiffany points out that they work with and sell several popular retail products as well as consumer friendly ammonia free colors including Pureology a 100% certified organic liquid line. The salon also offers jewellery designed by a local designer and they are Regina's leading supplier for the new FHI Heat flat irons and blow dryers. Salon Zenza provides for a stress-free environment beyond the salon, as well. “We have lots of free parking and our location is easy to find,” explains Peace. Because the salon is situated at 4616 Albert St., within an established strip mall, there is no need for you to plan your route or worry about a

A need for stylists With society’s obsession with beauty, says Peace, there is always a need for talented stylists and estheticians within the industry. “We have the appropriate space to offer esthetic services and for a seventh stylist to work in the salon,” Peace says. Whether you are a new graduate or an established colourist, perhaps you too are in search of change, renewal and rejuvenation. Watch for the salon’s upcoming website, www.salonzenza.com, or phone 586-8444. Salon Zenza 4616 Albert St. 586-8444 www.salonzenza.com PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

BY LISA DEGELMAN

Expert Advice: Style

Shades of fall Ryan Horne Optician Vision Center Direct

s we move from summer to fall, one thing comes to my optical mind: sunglasses! Usually we think of sunglasses as one of our summer essentials (and they are!), but I find more people coming to us for sunglasses in the winter. Glare and UV rays are very apparent, causing eyestrain and possible eye conditions as they reflect off of snow and ice, not to mention the waters of our tropical destinations! Non-Rx sunglasses are easy. You can get cheap ones, or more expensive ones. Both will provide UV protection (I have yet to find any that don’t), but the difference will be in optics and the quality of manufacture. If you’ve never treated yourself to quality shades, I highly recommend it— your eyes will thank you and you will never go back. For those who need a prescription, clip-ons have always been a popular quick-fix, but come with limitations. They allow more light around the sides and tend to be misplaced often. Prescription sunglasses have really taken off, because they provide more complete coverage and are much more stylish. The constant fashion trend is to go big: don’t be afraid! Unless your prescription is not conducive to a large Rx sunglass, give it a go—so many people have really enjoyed it and have commented how they could never go back to smaller styles! At VisionCenterDirect.com, we specialize in Rx Sunglasses, with more 300 styles ready for your Rx! We feature Kaenon Polarized, Chrome Hearts, Coach, Tom Ford, Jee Vice, Freudenhaus, Blac, Maui Jim and many more. Stay tuned this fall for even more exciting new and unique releases from our annual visit to Vision Expo West in Las Vegas!

| Autumn 2010

style

Autumn 2010

| 39

A good footwear wardrobe, she advises, begins with two basic styles. “Invest in a tall black boot and a black or brown pump. These classic pieces will last you season after season.” Then, you can begin to add on some trendy items.

Fall/winter trends

There’s no business like shoe business Fine footwear awaits Saskatoon fashionistas in Durand’s BY JACKIE KRIPKI

sk Leane Durand for one footwear “rule of thumb” and she’s quick to respond: “Wear leather!” A comfortable foot, Durand says, is the first step to a fashionable foot. She speaks from experience. As owner of Durand’s Fine Footwear, she has placed virtually every size of foot into every style of shoe. When Durand’s opened in 2003, it filled a niche for a mid-to-high end shoe store in Saskatoon. It also satisfied Durand’s dream of being a business owner. “I’ve always loved footwear. Once I started the business, I became even more passionate about it.” The store now caters solely to ladies. Durand says all women crave comfort, from the businesswoman devoted to practical pumps to the waitress who wants to look fabulous while standing for long shifts. “Women want something they can actually wear to stand, walk, dance... if a shoe is not leather, it won’t mold to your foot, and you’re not going to be comfortable, period.”

| Autumn 2010

For footwear fashionistas, fall is a magical time. “It’s the biggest season, particularly in Saskatchewan, where we wear a lot of boots.” Durand recently returned from buying trips in Los Angeles and Las Vegas and is ready to share the latest trends. “In L.A., I still saw a lot of short, almost cowboyinfluenced boots being worn with shorts and skirts. Lace-up Oxfords are really popular too, either with a heel or flat.” When it comes to boots, look up, way up. Over-the-knee boots are hot. Durand says they look great with skinny jeans and skirts, and have the added benefit of covering a little more leg in cold winters. One popular supplier is La Canadienne out of Montreal. “They are waterproof with a wick-away lining and rubber soles—the perfect fashion boot for our weather. Fantastic!” Prepare to tower in heels, too. Six-inch heels are hot, and while Durand insists almost anyone can pull them off, she also offers safety tips for beginners. “This is one time that you absolutely should not buy cheap shoes. You’ll regret that! Buy a pair that fits incredibly well.” Then, she says, practice walking. It’ll be worth it. “They make legs look miles and miles long!”

Top of the line With a keen understanding that clients appreciate exclusivity, Durand’s philosophy is to carry limited stock. That means carrying less than 12 pairs per style. “So, at most there will be a dozen people in the city wearing that shoe.” Every line of shoes at Durand’s meets high standards for quality, comfort, and fashion. They include Kenneth Cole, Neosens, and the iconic Fluevogs, de-

signed in Vancouver and well-known for their endurance. “Fleuvogs can last for 10 years or more.” For the girl who likes eclectic footwear, Fly London wins all kinds of awards for its funky trendy designs, and Mag Creative Footwear has been holding in popularity since the ’80s. “If you didn’t wear Doc Martins in the ’80s, you wore Mag’s,” says Durand. “They make extremely comfortable boots and shoes.” For ballet flats, try Nike Air technology from Cole Haan. “The best ballet flats you could ever put on your feet.” Donald J. Pliner is one of the bestsellers for dress shoes. “They have a higher price point, but I’m telling you it’s the only black pump you will ever need.” Durand insists that every woman can find a fashionable fit at her store. “Different lines fit different feet. Some fit narrow. Others fit wide. Some have removable inserts to accommodate orthotics. There’s something special about every piece of footwear in here. I love that.”

Pulling it all together Durand says customers should never be bashful about asking fashion questions. “We are asked for advice all the time. That’s our job. Saskatchewan is a bit remote, so people come here to hear the forecast. There’s a different feel when you shop in a boutique. You receive better and more personalized service.” Once your feet are happily ensconced and the leather is molding itself to your tootsies, prepare to accessorize. “We sell tonnes of tights and hosiery. Right now, it’s about patterns, metallics and little jewel details. Leggings are big, too.” Grab one of our great leather bags from Montreal handbag designers Rudsak. Add on a necklace from celebrity-endorsed Sugarlime out of Vancouver, who designed jewelry for the entire cast of Twilight. Then, top off your look with a leather wrist cuff brought in from Las Vegas. Send a request to info@durandsfootwear.ca to sign up for email blasts, a simple way to receive news updates, fashion tips and invitations to the store’s hotly-anticipated client appreciation nights. “We have music, food, champagne, and giveaways. It’s a very fun night!” Another great way to receive updates is through Durand’s popular Facebook fan page. “We post photos of inventory within hours of receiving it. It’s the best way to stay connected.” New fall styles continue to arrive at Durand’s from August through October. Styles sell quickly, so don’t hesitate to head in! Durand’s Fine Footwear 255 Second Ave. S. 933-3336 www.durandsfootwear.ca

PHOTOS BY GRANT ROMANCIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Personal shopper Look and feel fabulous with help from a fashion consultant extraordinaire BY JENN SHARP

or many people, shopping and picking out appropriate and stylish outfits for work or play is a time-consuming and stressful endeavour.

If this sounds like you, or perhaps you’re looking for some fashion advice, a personal shopper and wardrobe consultant is the perfect solution to have you looking and feeling fabulous.

Janie Rose, 29, was born and raised in Saskatoon, and now works in both her hometown and in Regina with clients of all ages and requirements. Janie studied fashion design, personal shopping and fashion consulting in Milan, Italy, and fashion marketing in London, England.

An eye for fashion Janie has had an eye for fashion since a young age. She began sewing at nine and by the age of 12 knew that it was the industry for her: “When I was in high school, my best friend would always tell me I had the ability to see something on the hanger and visualize how it would look on someone.” After consulting family and friends, Janie began her personal shopping and wardrobe consultant business last fall. Bringing out someone’s personal style is one of the most rewarding aspects of her business. “I find that what I do helps open the door for people to go within, bringing out their confidence and realize their true potential,” she says. Whether you’re looking for an outfit for a special occasion or want to dress to impress for a job interview, Janie can help you find the perfect look. “I just love helping people be the best they can be…that’s what it’s all about for me. Time flies when I’m doing my job and it never really feels like work,” she says. She’s also an expert on advising how to look great without breaking the bank. “I don’t believe that having style is about spending a lot of money,” she says. Dana, a massage therapist. explains: “I saved money, because I didn't end up purchasing a lot of clothes that ended up sitting in the closet. Definitely recommend the services.”

The “closet detox” Janie’s personal and individualized services usually start with an initial meeting followed by a closet detox. During the detox, Janie will visit your home and help you decide what to keep or give away, and which items can be added to your wardrobe to pull it together. She says some clients may want a complete revamping, while others need a few specific pieces to update and accessorize

Autumn 2010

| 43

existing items. “My philosophy is that the only way to bring in the new is by getting rid of the old,” Janie says. “I help clients let go of what they’ve been hanging onto and start over. They soon realize it gets easier every time!” Janie says that by regularly detoxing your closet and keeping it “small, neat and current,” you can dramatically cut down on time spent getting ready in the morning. Along with the closet detox, Janie includes a folder of information explaining your specific body type, the shapes that work for you, a specific colour palette, how to wear the current trends and a list of where to shop. Some clients will use their new-found knowledge to go alone on successful and productive shopping trips. Carmelle, a Pilates instructor, did just that and went shopping with her friends. She says that “for the first time ever, I knew what I was looking for.” Janie can also provide the folder of information for you without the closet detox service.

Your shopping guide Many people decide to hire Janie to take them shopping. In these cases, Janie is fully prepared and makes a pre-game action plan, mapping out the route and putting items on hold ahead of time to make the experience efficient and enjoyable. She also takes clients and visitors on guided shopping tours in both Saskatoon and Regina. If life is hectic, Janie can also be hired to go shopping for you. This is a great option if you don’t like to shop. Depending on the item, Janie will usually pick a few different pieces, deliver them to your home and return any unwanted items. Janie’s talents have also helped many parents frustrated with shopping for their teens, such as Hilary, a project manager for Aboriginal Initiatives: “I think every mother with a teenage daughter should hire personal shopper and fashion guru Autumn 2010

| 44

Janie Rose. Fabulous results without all the whining!” For prices, package details or to purchase a gift certificate, phone Janie at 261-6814 or email her at janierose@sasktel.net. Check out www.janierose.ca this fall for a full biography, list of services, testimonials and a blog, including photos, current trends and fashion events in Regina and Saskatoon. Janie will also discuss the best boutiques in both cities and must-have items.

Janie Rose 261-6814 janier ose@sasktel.net

“I came across Janie’s editorial in the Saskatoon Fine Lifestyles magazine and was immediately drawn to it. I have come to realize that for some time now I really didn’t like my clothes or how I felt in them. Every day I was complaining to my husband that I had nothing to wear, even though our closet and dressers were overflowing with clothes. So I emailed Janie. I was a little nervous for our first consultation but Janie quickly put me at ease. She is very easy to talk to and listened to all of my issues with finding clothes that fit my body. The ‘closet detox’ was a little overwhelming at first. but Janie and I had so much fun! It was reassuring to know that I didn’t have to go out an purchase a whole new wardrobe and that all I needed was some advice on how to piece different items of clothing together and how to accessorize to make an outfit more appealing. Along with the closet detox, Janie printed off sheets of clothing ideas and color pallets that complement my body type and skin tone. I am a visual person so these ‘cheat sheet’ are great! I keep them in my purse so I know what I should be looking for when I go shopping. The best thing I got out of my appointment with Janie is a new, more confident me (my husband is happy with the result.s too). So many people have approached me to compliment how I look. I can’t wait to go shopping with Janie and learn even more! Thanks so much, Janie! I can’t recommend her services enough!” – Kristina, Landscape Architect

Expert Advice: Style

Hair Colouring Daniel A. McDonald Chief Creative Stylist & Owner The D.A.M. Hair Company Ltd. 525-2700 thedamhaircompany@sasktel.net

Ask the D.A.M. question!

the colour. So I would also recommend the product line Color Extend from Redken to help prevent the loss of colour.

Dear D.A.M.,

Finally, a word of advice. Do not scrub or brush your scalp the day of your appointment: this will only increase your scalp irritation.

I have bleached hair with much summer damage. Now that it’s fall, I would like to change my hair to something a bit deeper and richer in colour. However, with all the bleached and “fried” hair I’m not sure what to do. DAM! Can you help?

Remember, colours are chemicals and will react differently to each person. For colouring on damaged hair it is important to seek the advice of a trained professional.

Craving Change Dear Craving Change, This is a great question and one I get often this time of year. First, let me say that with every question I get I always recommend you see your stylist for a consultation or come down to our salon, where we can see your hair and give accurate solutions so you can get the colour and style you want. There are two things I would recommend that can help your damaged hair before getting it coloured by a professional. Please make sure, especially if your hair is damaged, that you have it coloured at a professional salon. First, let’s make sure the basics are being done to bring your hair up to a good condition. Washing with a premium shampoo and weekly protein treatments are as important to your hair as vitamins are to your body. As a Premiere Redken Flagship Salon, I would recommend using a regimen of the Extreme product line from Redken. This line is specifically designed to help strengthen and “rescue” your hair with its shampoo, conditioners and protein treatments, and will prep you for yout next appointment. I will usually recommend using these products for at least a two-week period (depending on the level of damage) before your corrective appointment. Remember, though, once you are ready to colour your hair, to stop using the protein treatment approximately four days prior to applying colour. If you don’t, the colour won’t take, because your cuticles will be full of protein, leaving no room for the colour. Second, be patient. Remember, damaged hair takes time to correct and grow. It’s important to let the stylist do his or her work, understanding that you may not get the correction or colour you want right away. It may take more than one appointment with your stylist to achieve your desired colour. If you try to do too much too quickly, whether on your own or with your stylist, you may cause more damage than good to your already “fried” hair. Once you have had your first appointment to correct your hair, it may soak up the colour more than normal because of the porosity of the hair (imagine a dry sponge in water). On the flip side, your colour may release or fade faster because the cuticle being damaged will not hold

| Autumn 2010

I hope that answers your question. For our other readers, guys and girls, this is beginning of an ongoing Q and A series about your hair colour, style and design. We would be happy to answer your questions. Call us at The D.A.M. Hair Company Ltd. and set up an appointment to see one of our creative team stylists, or email your question to thedamhaircompany@sasktel.net.

That is my D.A.M. advice!

PHOTO BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

tomers have come to rely on and trust. For them, success is not measured by the number of sales, but by the smiles their customers share as they leave the store, confident in the selection they have made. With so many brands and styles to choose from, including popular designers such as D&G, DKNY, Gucci and Versace, one might believe that finding the right frames would be a daunting task. Not so at Northgate Optical on Rochdale, where the team is skilled at helping customers choose frames that complement their features and reflect their personal style. In fact, as a certified colour consultant, Bonnie attributes her keen eye for frame selections to her passion for interior decorating. “It really is quite similar. I always look for that perfect colour and balance, whether it’s in a room or a client’s eyewear!” While helping customers find a look they love is important, selecting a proper prescription lens is essential and the options are equally numerous. The owners of Northgate Optical on Rochdale, each a licensed optician with more than 20 years of experience, continually keep up with the latest technology in lenses and coatings and can help customers make informed decisions about their specific needs. The boutique only carries high-quality products, most of which are designed by Essilor, the world’s leading lens manufacturer.

Northgate Optical on Rochdale measuring success in smiles... Matching customers with the perfect eyewear in a warm, inviting atmosphere BY TRILBY HENDERSON

Northgate Optical on Rochdale’s friendly approach to service is ever-present, and customers are also welcomed—and encouraged—to return to the store at any time for any servicing needs over the lifetime of their eyewear. This fall and winter, Northgate Optical on Rochdale will host three Exclusive Frame Shows. (Sorry, guys, these evenings will be Ladies’ Nights only!) Refreshments will be served, so please register early for these guaranteed “fun and fashion” events. Call Bonnie at 545-2020 for the dates and times.

ne step through the front door of Northgate Optical on Rochdale, and customers looking for the perfect eyewear know they are in for a treat. The new boutique’s open layout and upscale décor perfectly showcase the vast selection of stylish and modern frames on display, and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where customers can feel comfortable and pampered, and fully enjoy their shopping experience. Creating a memorable and satisfying experience is a major focus for owners Alex and Bonnie Horvath and Jerry Schellenberg, and their efforts to achieve this for each and every customer extend far beyond the store’s classy and fresh visual appeal. Since expanding to their new location in 2008, the Northgate Optical on Rochdale team has continued to cultivate their longstanding reputation for delivering the exceptional service and knowledgeable, honest advice that generations of cus-

Northgate Optical on Rochdale 4313 Rochdale Blvd. 545-2020

Autumn 2010

| 47

Autumn 2010

| 50

PHOTO BY CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

All that glitters Get more money for your gold, silver, coins and more...right here in Regina BY FLR STAFF

ou can turn off those annoying TV ads—Regina’s KC Coins will pay you more for your gold, without the time lag and worry of sending your former treasures in the mail. The current high price of gold has sparked the interest of consumers—and of advertisers who barrage the TV networks, urging you to redeem your gold for cash. Lyle Fornwald, owner of KC Coins in the Golden Mile Shopping Centre, says he offers better prices, without the hassle of mailing your old gold and waiting for a cheque to arrive. There’s no hard sell. No large overhead. No expensive television advertising. As a result, Fornwald can, truly, give you more money for your gold. “Plus, we pay you on the spot; you don’t have to wait for a cheque in the mail,” Fornwald says. “We weigh it. We check the karat and decide what we can offer you, and then you decide whether you want to sell or not. It’s not like putting it in an envelope and sending it away without knowing what you’ll get.”

KC Coins

But, wait! There’s more. In addition to buying unwanted and scrap gold, KC Coins buys and sells all manner of gold and silver, including coins, bars and even dental gold. In addition, it also deals in paper money, pocket watches, high-end watches like Rolex and jewelry, including diamond rings and items with higher gold content. If you’re looking to buy, Fornwald says his company can offer better prices than jewelry stores, which have high overhead costs for their large stores and staff. “Main jewelry stores have a huge mark-up. We can sell for a fraction of jewelry store prices. When you walk by jewelry stores and see sales of up to 70 percent off, you have to wonder, ‘If they can sell at that price, what are they paying in the first place?’” he asks. The gold bug bit Fornwald about five years ago, and regular trips to the coin store led to a golden opportunity to take over the business. “I was like the average person, who throws a few coins into a pail and takes them out and looks at them once in a while. It was something that I grew into,” he says of the coin business.

Golden Mile Centre, Regina

The one thing the store doesn’t carry is a crystal ball, and Fornwald isn’t making any predictions about the future, especially given the volatility of the gold market. “There’s so much uncertainty (in the world economy),” he says of the market that has seen gold prices, now at about $1,200 to $1,300 an ounce, double since he took over the business. But, the one thing that he is certain will remain constant is people’s love for that shiny metal. Whatever else happens, he says: “Gold is still gold.”

306.584.2426

in which a publisher had shown interest. Oh, and did we mention he is also an actor and singer? “I’m on the fly all the time,” Willett says during a recent interview that is interrupted at least four times by his ringing cell phone. “I get up in the morning and think, ‘Okay, what do I have to do today?’” As a freelance editor, writer and performing artist, Willett has worked 17 years for the privilege of being so busy. In 1993, he walked away from a full-time position as communications officer for the Saskatchewan Science Centre. “I had an offer from Prairie Opera in Saskatoon to do a two-month school tour,” Willett recalls. “So I knew I had two months of paying work coming. “That seemed like enough,” he adds with a laugh. “I was perhaps a little braver than I realized.”

Often on stage Since making the break from full-time employment, Willett has continued to perform on stage in Regina and Saskatoon, with the occasional television appearance as well. He portrayed Monsieur D’Arque (and several smaller roles) in Persephone Theatre’s 2009 production of Beauty and the Beast, and is a frequent cast member in Regina Lyric Musical Theatre productions. EDWARD WILLETT PLAYS MONSIEUR D’ARQUE IN PERSEPHONE THEATRE’S 2007 PRODUCTION OF BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.

A fantastic life Award-winning Regina author Edward Willett edits, acts and sings...but science fiction and fantasy are his first loves BY MARK CLAXTON Edward Willett has a few things on his plate these days. In fact, he could probably use a few more plates. Known in these pages as the editor of Fine Lifestyles Regina, and sister magazines Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon, Fine Homes Regina and Fine Weddings Regina,Willett is also a writer of science books, children’s fiction and biographies, and a nationally recognized science fiction novelist. In the weeks leading up to publication of this edition, he was also completing a manuscript that was due to his publisher, working on the rewrite of another novel, and trying to make progress on a third book

| Autumn 2010

“I do it professionally when the work comes along, but I don’t pursue it at the level you have to in order to get a lot of work,” he says. While that is due in part to Willett’s reluctance to do a lot of travelling—he doesn’t like to be away for long from wife Margaret Anne Hodges and nine-year-old daughter Alice— his writing career has reached the point where there isn’t much time for other vocations. “I’m trying to write some fiction every day now,” Willett says, noting that in addition to the projects he already has on the go, “there are 14 ideas in my head.” Willett has never lacked for ideas; he still has the manuscripts for the three novels and one novella he wrote as a high-school student in Weyburn. He retains some hope for at least one of those unpublished works, but with his current commitment to a fantasy novel for adults and a five-book fantasy series for young readers, Willett has no schedule for revisiting

toonist (Willett minored in art in university). He continued to write fiction during that time, however, and in 1982, it finally paid. While travelling in Europe as a Harding University alumnus with the university chorus, Willett received a letter from home. “I was in Zurich when the mail caught up with me,” Willett recalls. “It was Mom telling me that Western People had bought a short story.” Twelve years after the rainy-day creation of Kastra Glazz, hypership test pilot, Willett was a published fiction writer.

The move to Regina It was the opportunity to write copy for the Saskatchewan Science Centre that brought Willett to Regina. Much of the text still on display at the centre is his work. The position helped to establish Willett as Regina’s pre-eminent science writer, and he inaugurated both a long-running science column in the Leader Post and a regular segment with CBC Radio. “Some people think I still work at the Science Centre,” Willett says. “Or they say, ‘I love your science column, I read it every week,’ and I have to point out that it hasn’t run in the Leader Post for several months now.’”

EDWARD WILLETT, HIS WIFE, MARGARET ANNE, AND THEIR DAUGHTER, ALICE, SHOW OFF THE AURORA AWARD HE WON LAST YEAR AT THE WORLD SCIENCE FICTION CONVENTION IN MONTREAL. ......................................................... his juvenilia. “Ideas are everywhere,” he says. “Ideas are easy. It’s turning them into books that’s the real work.”

In fact, Willett’s first published book was a technological manual entitled Using Microsoft Publisher for Windows 95. While he continued to seek markets for his fiction, he paid his bills by writing nonfiction, with a focus on computer manuals and science books for young readers. In 1997, children’s publisher Royal Fireworks Press picked up Soulworm, Willett’s fantasy novel about teens battling evil entities that feed on hatred and violence...in Weyburn. “I’m always trying to sneak Saskatchewan into my books,” Willett says. “I don’t see why they can’t be set in Saskatchewan as well as anywhere else.”

The first story

Upcoming novels

Willett was 11 years old when he wrote his first short story while spending a rainy day with a friend and fellow science fiction buff. His two older brothers had introduced him to the great SF and fantasy writers, and he was hooked early. He recalls the title of his first effort with some bemusement. “It was called ‘Kastra Glazz, Hypership Test Pilot,’” Willett says. “I thought I had to give everyone a weird name.” Willett was pleased enough with the story that he took it to school, where his Grade 8 English teacher, Tony Tunbridge, read it over and provided him with some thoughtful feedback. “He took it seriously, and I guess that encouraged me, because I’ve been a writer ever since,” Willett says. Willett’s father, James Willett, taught at the Church of Christ-affiliated Western Christian College in Weyburn (now located in Regina), and was also a preacher and elder for the church. Willett studied journalism at the church-affiliated Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. Upon his graduation, he returned to Weyburn to work as a reporter and photographer for the weekly Weyburn Review. He eventually became the newspaper’s news editor and was able to put yet another talent to work as its editorial car-

WILLETT’S NEW YOUNG ADULT FANTASY NOVEL, SONG OF THE SWORD, FIRST BOOK IN A FIVE-BOOK SERIES, IS SET LARGELY IN REGINA.

Regina’s Wascana Centre takes a starring role in two of Willett’s upcoming novels. In the opening pages of his young-adult fantasy Song of the Sword, coming out October 15 from Montreal’s Lobster Press, heroine Ariane is drawn down a staircase that opens up right in the middle of Wascana Lake, leading her to the Lady of the Lake of Arthurian legend. While the forthcoming adult fantasy Magebane takes place in a parallel world, “a large part of it is based on Wascana Centre,” Willett says.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Willett doesn’t just locate his fiction in Saskatchewan: he remains

Autumn 2010

| 53

quite content locating his life here. “These days you can write from anywhere, it doesn’t much matter where you live as far as editors are concerned,” he says. “I like Regina. It’s a beautiful city and just the right size. And we’re far busier doing stuff in Regina than we would be in a bigger city, where it’s hard to get to the symphony or the theatre.” Sci-fi and fantasy have traditionally constituted a lower caste in literary society, and Willett is not alone among speculative authors in feeling occasionally disrespected by critics.

Spices of

PUNJAB East Indian Curry & Tandoori Delight

MARSEGURO, PUBLISHED BY DAW BOOKS IN NEW YORK, WON CANADA’S TOP SCIENCE FICTION AWARD, THE AURORA, FOR BEST LONG-FORM WORK IN ENGLISH.

He received a huge boost from sci-fi fans and peers, though, when the Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Association named his novel Marseguro as 2009’s best Canadian long-form work in English. With the Aurora Award, which he received during a ceremony at the World Science Fiction Convention in Montreal last year, Willett joins Canadian scifi/fantasy luminaries such as Robert J. Sawyer and Guy Gavriel Kay. “Whatever else happens, I’ll always be an Aurora Award-winning science fiction writer,” Willett says. “Also, it looks good on the mantelpiece.” Willett’s ultimate ambition is to write fiction full-time while continuing to act and sing on stage. As he works toward that goal, though, he continues to enjoy the work life he’s created for himself today. “I’ve made a go of it for 17 years as a freelancer. I can’t complain,” Willett says. “I’m doing what I’ve always really wanted to do.”

Enjoy favourites such as butter chicken, samosas, pakora, korma, biryani and much more. We offer a daily luncheon buffet, a bargain at $12 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

www.spiceofpunjab.com WILLETT READING AT MCNALLY-ROBINSON BOOKSTORE IN SASKATOON. .........................................................

| Autumn 2010

1009 Albert Street 543-1000

Saving time, money and stress

A revolutionary approach to putting healthy, home-cooked, delicious foods back on your menu BY MEAGEN THOMAS

here is one commodity in the world that can’t be bought, only saved: time. The advent of affordable technology in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s promised efficiency in the home and the workplace, the ability to do more in less time. Well, that’s a promise kept: we are doing more but only, it seems, to work longer and harder—which means we need to find more time-saving conveniences. No one can actually stop time but From Scratch Kitchens, a specialty meal assembly business, does something almost as good: they can give you hours and hours of your life back. “We have a little slogan here: when you save time you save money and you save stress,” says Dionne Amon, founder of From Scratch Kitchens. “If you assemble 10 meals in my kitchen, it will ultimately save you more than 18 hours.” Consider the time it takes to choose a recipe

| Autumn 2010

everyone in the house will enjoy, plan the meal, drive to the store, shop, unpack, prep, cook and serve: that’s the whole evening gone. And you have to do it all again tomorrow if you want to serve something else. “Feeding yourself or your family is a big job and if you don’t plan ahead, you’ll probably end up wasting a lot more than time: you’ll be wasting food and money,” says Amon. About 40 percent of food purchased ends up in the trash because it doesn’t get used. Real life takes over and food bought with the best intentions goes into the trash. “At From Scratch Kitchens, you only pay for the ingredients you use. The finished meals go into the freezer and are ready right when you need them.”

Cooking up solutions From Scratch Kitchens is a revolutionary ap-

proach to putting healthy, home-cooked, delicious foods back on anyone’s menu. “I created From Scratch Kitchens because I know exactly how challenging it is to prepare and plan nutritious meals while juggling a demanding work schedule,” says Amon, a former youth-care worker. “In a fast-paced world not a lot of people have the time to make home-cooked meals, so this brings healthy home-cooked meals into homes that otherwise may not have the time, skills or knowledge to prepare them.” Major cities have as many as four or more meal assembly kitchens, so she decided that it was high time Regina, with its growing population, had one, too. Each month, From Scratch Kitchens introduces a new menu featuring between 30 and 40 balanced, healthy meals. Some are simple family-friendly favourites like chicken fingers and barbecued ribs, but they also feature

Ingredients for life From Scratch Kitchens is an ideal meal solution for families of any size. One client, a single woman in her 50s, has been with the business since it opened in 2008. For her, From Scratch Kitchens gives her the ability to prepare a month’s worth of savoury meals, perfectly portioned and packaged, in only a few hours’ time. “She found it really hard to cook for just one person and she wouldn’t otherwise make healthy and delicious meals just for herself,” Amon says. “It’s even helped her lose weight; the single-serving portions don’t tempt her to overeat.” Amon’s clients are always surprising her with novel and original ways to use her service. Friends and family members of new parents are coming to Amon to help stock the new family’s home in order to make eating and entertaining a stream of visitors easier to manage.

PHOTOS BY LAURI WIBERG PHOTOGRAPHY

gourmet-quality fare with seasonal ingredients that you’d pay $18 or more for in an upscale restaurant. Getting started and using the service is easy, too. From Scratch Kitchens’ comprehensive website is the starting point for most clients. Simply review the menu, select a convenient time on the kitchen’s calendar to assemble the meals selected and From Scratch Kitchens takes care of the rest, doing the shopping, preparing all the ingredients for each meal and guiding you through each station in the assembly kitchen. From Scratch Kitchens will even do all the clean-up on site, one less thing for you to do at home. “With a meal you assembled and took home, you haven’t used every pot and pan in your house and have a kitchen full of dishes to do at the end either. The meal cooks in its own foil pan, leaving you to walk away and just serve a beautiful dish,” says Amon. As for saving money, From Scratch Kitchens can put a banquet’s worth of tasty, gourmetquality meals on your table every night for $10 per serving or less. “We take care of all of the parts of cooking that most people don’t enjoy,” says Amon. “People would enjoy cooking if they planned, shopped and had the time to prepare meals, but these days no one has all three of these components available in one day.” Every meal idea goes through rigorous preparation, assembly, cooking and taste testing before it becomes a menu selection. “We polled our customers for what they’re interested in, so we offer everything from regular everyday meals to fancy restaurantstyle meals,” Amon says. “And of course, there are plenty of kid-friendly meals, too.”

At your service You don’t need to come in and cook to take home a From Scratch Kitchens meal. Anyone can stop, buy and pick-up frozen prepared meals kept on-site, or even have From Scratch Kitchens prepare your selection of meals for you. They’ll even customize their menu offerings to suit preference or accommodate dietary specific requirements and restrictions. If you can’t come to From Scratch Kitchens, all their excellent fare can come to you. “From the very start I’ve been asked to do catering,” says Amon. “We have started a catering division that will cater events for all sorts of occasions.” With a minimum order of six meals, From Scratch Kitchens will deliver a deli-style sandwich, salad, sparkling water, a homemade cookie and a hand-written note with an inspirational message, right to your workplace or venue. “It won’t be a typical sandwich either; we use the best ingredients, like real roast beef and chicken, to make our modern healthy homecooked meals.” Fr om Scratch K itchen 401 Victoria A ve. 522-MEA L(6325) cu stomerser vice@fromscratchkitchen .com

| Autumn 2010

PHOTOS BY LAURI WIBERG PHOTOGRAPHY

Trying times are another perfect occasion to turn to From Scratch Kitchens’s solutions. “The family members and friends of people who are sick want to buy them meals to get them through a time when they aren’t eating well and need help keeping health and energy up, says Amon. “For people struggling with illness such as cancer, having a freezer full of balanced, preportioned foods means less worry about nutrition and more time for rest and recovery.” Companies sense that there’s something special cooking at From Scratch Kitchens too. Teambuilding exercises can have delicious results when everyone pitches in to make appetizers, entrees, sides and even desserts while working through real-life process management and other exercises. Companies can bring in their own teambuilding exercises, too, and book the kitchen for a whole evening. Book and splurge clubs have booked the kitchen for private functions, including licensed events. Even children are welcome and invited. A From Scratch Kitchens birthday party keeps everyone busy and having fun decorating cupcakes and making cheeseburger pies, with plenty of time left for games, visiting and opening presents.

The Willetts on Wine Madeleine Angevine and beyond: adventures in wine-tasting BY MARGARET ANNE & EDWARD WILLETT

dventure, discovery and exploring the unknown are all aspects of a great vacation—and a great wine-tasting. This summer we had both, when our trip to British Columbia brought us the Larch Hills Winery in the Salmon Arm area. Upon discovering at our hotel that the Okanagan’s northernmost vineyards were only a few minutes’ drive away, we headed out with GPS in hand. A winding, switch-back road took us to the top of a mountain, where both a vineyard and a spectacular view awaited. Larch Hills specializes (for obvious reasons) in cool-climate viticulture. We tasted several of the winemaker’s offerings, and found, to our surprise, that our favourite was made from a seldomheard-of grape variety called Madeleine Angevine. A French grape that produces wines with Germanic style, it impressed with a fullon floral nose that reminded us of a bouquet of flowers...and a nicely balanced body and flavor that complemented that impression. Inspired by our discovery, we decided on our return to Regina to continue our summertime wine exploration by looking for other unfamiliar varieties. There are many single-varietal wines that are relatively new to consumers, such as Chenin Blancs and Argentinian Malbecs, but we wanted to find varietals we’d never even heard of. There’s no shortage of those. Worldwide, thousands of varieties of grapes are used to make wine. More than 60 varieties are grown in the Okanagan alone (though only about 20 of those receive the bulk of the attention).

Many unfamiliar wine grapes are varieties of Vitis labrusca or Vitis aestivalis, native to North America, rather than the Vitis vinifera of European fame. Concord grapes are an example of labrusca (and yes, Concord grapes are used to make wine). At a Missouri winery a few years ago we tasted Norton, a variety of Vitis aestivalis that is the cornerstone of that state’s wine industry (and the state’s official grape). Other less-familiar grape varieties may be hybrids of better-known varietals, or a cross between European and North American ones. One easy way to find unfamiliar varieties is to look at wines from emerging wineexporting areas such as Uruguay or Hungary, whose local vinifera grapes are just showing up on store shelves. Or you can just wander through the liquor store reading labels, looking for grape names you don’t recognize. Which is how we found our first two choices: a Greek Agiorgitiko and an Italian Negroamaro.

Agiorgitiko Boutari Agiorgitiko is an important red grape in Greece, sometimes referred to “the noble red grape.” We found this wine to be earthy and leathery on the nose and very smooth in the mouth, with lots of berry and a bit of spice (although not Shirazlevel). It was also very reasonably priced for its quality. Boutari, founded in 1879, has wineries all over Greece, and seeks to preserve and promote Greek varietals, shipping them all over the world...much to our benefit!

Mezzomondo Negroamaro Salento “Negroamaro” means “black bitter” in Latin. A grape hailing from the “heel” of Italy, it’s often blended. On its own, as we found it, it is well-rounded, without a lot of tannin, but perhaps better as an accompaniment to food than for sipping on its own. Having taken a hit-or-miss approach for our first two unfamiliar wines, we next

asked a couple of experts, who pointed us to two more wines, one from Italy, one from France.

Colli di Luni Vermentino Vermentino, a white grape varietal grown on the island of Sardinia, off the coast of Italy, as well as in southern France, is being used for more and more New World wines. It was by far our favorite of our we’ve-never-heard-of-these-before quartet, light and fruity (peach and apricot), with an excellent balance of acid and sugar and delightful honey characteristics.

Domaine de Pellehaut We hit the jackpot with this wine, which blends six wines (Ugni Blanc, Colombard, Gros Manseng, Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Folle Blanche), four of which were mostly unfamiliar to us. Ugni Blanc is widely planted in France and, under the name St-Emilion, is the predominate grape in cognac. Gros Manseng is grown almost entirely in southwest France and is also most often part of a blend. As for Colombard, while its plantings are declining in France, it is increasing in popularity in California and South Africa. On the nose, we detected pear; in the mouth, green apple, giving it a kind of “sharpness” on the palette. “There are more wines in heaven and earth...than are dreamt of in your philosophy,” Shakespeare famously wrote. Or would have, had he been a wine writer. 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. Like to see your wine recommendation in a future Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon? Contact The Willetts on Wine at ewillett@sasktel.net.

| Autumn 2010

Our readers recommend... Dr. Alice Goodfellow

E&E Black Pepper Shiraz We first tried E&E Black Pepper Shiraz at the International Wine and Food Festival at the Banff Springs Hotel. When we discovered that the Still was sold out at the on-site wine store we decided to try the Sparkling. It was our first sparkling red and it remains our favourite. Various vintages continue to deliver a complex dark red/purple wine full of ripe blackberry, coffee, dark chocolate and spice. It’s a splurge wine, but well worth it. Dr. Alice Goodfellow is a retired paediatrician who practiced in Regina during the 1950s and early 1960s. She is a long-time wine enthusiast, belonging to a number of local wine societies.

Our readers recommend... Robert Ursan

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Valdadige Some people think that Pinot Grigio wines are too mass-produced and a little tasteless. (I've heard them described as the vodka of wines.) And then you taste something as wonderful as the Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Valdadige, and everything changes. This is a great crisp wine, with excellent tang and lovely hints of citrus and quince. (Which, oddly, rhymes.) It’s a little pricier than most Pinot Grigio, but the flavour and complement it brings to so many foods makes this well worth it. I love Italian wine. I love big bold flavours. For a white wine, this is perfect. Robert Ursan, a composer, performer, music teacher and director, is Music Director for Do It With Class Young People’s Theatre Co. and co-Artistic Director of The Golden Apple Theatre.

Not just for grandparents Some people think of Bingo as something that’s only played by the elderly, but it’s really entertainment for all ages, says Peakman. “It’s not just for grandparents anymore! We have all ages coming in to play the game. Whether you are 20, 30, 40 or older, everybody fits right in! ACI is always looking for ways to bring a younger demographic in to play Bingo. This helps towards the growth of the operation.” Bingo halls are much more welcoming now because they’re all non-smoking. As well, all halls have concessions, just in case you are hungry for snack—or a full meal! Food, fun, and the fact it’s for a good cause all make Bingo a great activity, but of course there’s another attraction: prizes! Not just cash, but merchandise, from bigscreen TVs to Blu-Ray players to, on occasion, a car. People may be reluctant to try Bingo is because they don’t want to come by themselves, and they’re worried they won’t know what to do. But neither needs to be a concern.

Bingo! Looking for fun, food and friendship without spending a tonne of cash? It’s closer than you think! BY EDWARD WILLETT

ired of the same-old same-old? Looking for a fun, inexpensive outing with good times, good food, and good people?

Then you should consider Bingo! “It’s a fun night out,” says Roberta Peakman, General Manager of Amalgamated Charities. “Inexpensive entertainment for the whole family.” Amalgamated Charities is a non-profit organization that works with its charitable and non-profit members to raise funds through Bingo. It owns and operates six Bingo halls, three in Regina (Centennial, Fantasyland and Bingo Palace) and one each in Moose Jaw (Leisure Time), Saskatoon (ClubWest) and Swift Current (Junction Square). Not only do you get more play for your dollar with Bingo than most other forms of gaming, the money you’re putting in is going to a worthy cause. Amalgamated Charities has raised millions for more than 150 charitable and non-profit organizations. And then there’s the social aspect... “A lot of people come to meet other people,” says Patsy Warren, Manager of Marketing and Administration for Amalgamated Charities.

For one thing, you don’t have to come in by yourself. “If a group of people want to come in, we would be happy to do a separate table for them if they book ahead,” says Warren. “Booking ahead helps us make sure they will have the help they may need to make their evening a success.”

New players welcome Nor should people be put off by the fear that they won’t know what to do. Making people feel welcome is a goal of Amalgamated Charities, Peakman says. There are “new-player packages” for first-timers, with fewer cards so they can keep up and avoid frustration, and a dabber included so they’re set up and ready to play. ” (House rules state that you have to be at least 14 to play on your own, but children as young as 12 are welcome if accompanied by an adult.) Adds Warren, “There’s always someone that can help you.” So give Bingo a try! As Amalgamated Charities likes to say... “Odds are you might get lucky!”

Give the gift of

Fine Lifestyles! Fine Lifestyles Regina is distributed free of charge, directly to select homes in Regina, Emerald Park, White City, Regina Beach, Moose Jaw & Area If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to give your friends and loved ones the gift of Fine Lifestyles, subscriptions are available at:

www.finelifestyles.ca

Autumn 2010

| 67

son has added four women entrepreneurs to her team and together they have expanded the business to several locations in the Regina area, including their newly established restaurant, Fresh & Sweet. Mary McCusker, one of the women behind Valley Girls Catering and the current manager of the Brickhouse Bistro, says new customers to the Bistro are often pleasantly surprised to find such a unique establishment in the area. “It’s the best place to eat in all Saskatchewan,” McCusker laughed. “Probably a good three-quarters of the people that come in here are regulars.”

Well-rounded menu With a menu that offers something for everyone, from souvlaki to Chinese food, it’s no surprise that so many customers return again and again. The restaurant also serves a number of appetizing soups, all made from scratch using fresh, quality ingredients, that customers will find especially satisfying on chilly fall and winter days. “Our menu is pretty well-rounded. We have a bit of everything,” McCusker says.

A “perfect little eatery” Mouth-watering food, beautiful location, friendly staff—and sleigh rides! BY TRILBY HENDERSON

ittingly located at the heart of Lumsden’s eclectic James Street, the Brickhouse Bistro is a “perfect little eatery” that offers a surprisingly large variety of tastes. Inside, new and old customers alike are greeted with both friendly smiles and an array of tantalizing aromas from the mouth-watering food, beverages and treats that await them. The Brickhouse Bistro opened in 2005 as one of the first ventures of Valley Girls Catering, a food service business founded by Beata Thompson three years earlier. Since then, Thomp-

| Autumn 2010

While all items served at the Brickhouse Bistro can best be described as delicious, the restaurant is most well known for its wide selection of unique and delectable desserts. Customers can choose from a number of freshly-made treats to satisfy their sweet tooth, including cheesecake, caramel brownie explosion, maple berry crumble, giant chocolate cake, Saskatoon pie and gourmet candy apples dipped in caramel and chocolate and decorated with edible goodies. “All of our desserts are home-made,” says McCusker. “They are fabulous.” The menu isn’t the only thing drawing people to the Bistro, says McCusker. “We have a tremendous staff,” she says, noting that customers regularly leave written compliments to their employees in a guest book they keep at the front door. McCusker says one of the reasons the Bistro’s team works so well together is because everyone is given the opportunity to

arts, entertainment & dining luncheon special to $43 per person for the dinner package, with reduced prices for children. The sleighs can carry up to 25 people per tour, but two sleighs can be booked to accommodate larger groups, she says. A minimum of 15 people is required, although the Bistro can arrange tours for smaller groups who are willing to cover the additional costs of the sleigh. McCusker says joining a few smaller groups or individuals together could make the experience even more fun, because it gives participants an opportunity to meet new people. McCusker says the sleigh rides are a fitting activity for the holidays. “It’s a great time and it’s a great thing to do for a staff party or if you’ve got out-of-town guests coming. It’s something different to entertain them with,” she says.

learn how to serve in different capacities. For example, the servers are taught how to prepare salads and perform other kitchen tasks, while the kitchen staff learns how to deliver orders, take payments and interact with customers.

Christmas sleigh rides This year, the Brickhouse Bistro will once again offer guests a chance to celebrate the holidays by partaking in one of the Christmas sleigh rides the restaurant runs throughout the season. “Our sleigh rides usually start when the snow flies and go throughout the winter,” says McCusker. “It’s quite popular.” Both luncheon and dinner sleigh-ride packages are available, says McCusker. With each package, guests can choose one of four meals, including lunch items, such as the honey Dijon chicken sandwich or salmon wrap, and dinner features, such as a half rack of Greek or barbecued ribs, teriyaki chicken stir-fry, or a six-ounce tenderloin topped with béarnaise, shrimp and scallops. Once the meal is over, guests bundle up in their winter gear and climb on board a horse-drawn sleigh for a 45-minute tour

around Lumsden, where they can enjoy the beauty of local homes and businesses decked out for the holidays against the stunning backdrop of the Qu’Appelle Valley. The entire experience is topped off back at the Bistro with a cup of hot chocolate and a cookie for luncheon diners, and hot chocolate, coffee and a chocolate fountain with fruit and cookies for dinner guests. “We have entire families come, with little kids and babies,” she says. “We cater to everybody.” Prices range from $27 per person for the

Although the first snowfall is still weeks away, the Brickhouse Bistro is already accepting bookings for their sleigh rides. McCusker says the event is so popular that some people book nearly a year in advance to secure a specific date. Interested individuals are encouraged to call the Bistro as early as possible to book a spot.

The Brickhouse Bistro 235 James St. N. Lumsden 731-2859 www.valleygirlscatering.ca

pulling together to tackle big projects and back each other up. “We operate independently, but at the same time, we depend on each other,” Thompson says.

Dependable and professional

A unique taste Delicious, unexpected food hallmark of women-run catering business BY FLR STAFF

ourmet candied apples, mapleand--bacon cupcakes and strawberry vinaigrette waffles—these are just a few of the delicious and unexpected menu items customers can choose from when they visit one of the many venues operated by Valley Girls Catering. By offering customers an array of delectable, homemade cuisine choices, served in a fast and friendly environment, Valley Girls has created a taste utopia that food lovers won’t find anywhere else. “There’s a real passion for food within the company and within our staff,” says Beata Thompson, one of the five women entrepreneurs behind Valley Girls Catering. When people really care about what they are doing, it is reflected in the quality and taste of the food they prepare, she adds. Judging by the company’s success, their enthusiasm for food has certainly paid off.

Born in 2002 Thompson started Valley Girls Catering in 2002, when she began operating the food service at the Deer Valley Golf Course. In 2005, she expanded the company to include a new venture—the 70

| Autumn 2010

Brickhouse Bistro, located in Lumsden. Tania Fraser came on board as a partner in 2007 and was with the company when it again expanded in 2008 to take over operation of the food service at Regina’s Currie Field, home turf of the Red Sox ball team, and the Tartan Curling Club. The following year was another big one for the company as it added both Mary McCusker and Gerda Klyne to the partnership, began operating the food service at Sherwood Forest Country Club, and opened another restaurant, called Fresh & Sweet, in Regina. The Valley Girls Catering team was completed when its fifth member, Allison Sweet, joined in early 2010. “Essentially, the company is owned by the people who have been operating it for years,” says Thompson, noting that each of the partners spent time on the company payroll before joining the business’s ownership. Thompson says the five women behind Valley Girls Catering have established a strong working relationship built on mutual trust and collaboration, with each partner taking responsibility for the operation of a different venue but all

This mutual cooperation has given the catering side of Valley Girls’s business a unique edge, enabling it to take on multiple functions on the same day, says Thompson. Potential customers can browse through Valley Girls’s detailed online menu, found at www.valleygirlscatering.ca and complete with suggestions on menu combinations and choices. Whether supplying lunch for an office of five or feeding a wedding party of 400, Valley Girls is able to deliver on the dependable and professional reputation it has developed. Valley Girls Catering currently employs 40 staff members, many of whom are long-term employees able to fill numerous roles. Thompson says the staff’s solid work ethic and versatility has contributed greatly to the company’s smooth operation and consistent, high-quality service. “It’s a really good team environment,” she says. “Everybody works really hard and genuinely enjoys each other.” This behind-the-scenes teamwork is manifested in a busy, upbeat atmosphere that customers appreciate nearly as much as they do the food. While Valley Girls customizes its menus to suit each of the venues it operates, customers can be certain the quality they receive will be the same. In fact, the Valley Girls team takes great pride in ensuring that all of its menu items meet the same high standard for taste, freshness and originality that its loyal customers have come to expect. “At the end of the day, the goal is to be consistent and to provide the same style and idea of service, but at different places,” Thompson says.

Valley Girls Catering (306) 543-8531 www.valleygirlscatering.ca

Autumn 2010

| 71

| Autumn 2010

Breathe a little easier A quality central vacuum cleaner can help keep your home both clean and allergen-free BY RYAN HOLOTA

eam Canada was originally founded by a Regina couple determined to create a better vacuum. Over the years this company grew and improved its product line. Acquired by Electrolux Home Care Products in 1996, it is now the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading manufacturer and marketer of central vacuum systems. A quality vacuum system is the type of purchase that you make only once in a lifetime, for just a little more money than it costs to buy a cheap system that lasts only a few years. Vacuum cleaners are an important part of keeping your home clean and allergen-free, and the new Beam vacuums are designed to do just that. Each model of Beam vacuum cleaner offered at Dependable Vacuums Plus is designed to meet stringent HEPA ratings for dust and allergen control, ensuring that your home is as clean as possible. New vacuum cleaners are

so efficient at removing contaminants from the air that they no longer require an outside vent, keeping your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conditioned air within your walls and helping to conserve energy.

Vacuum accessories The best vacuum cleaner in the world is nothing without the proper tools to make use of all that cleaning power. Dependable Vacuums Plus offers accessories individually or in convenient kits to make shopping easier for you. Because they are offered separately from the central vacuum unit, you have the option to select the tools that suit your needs best. For example, if your home is full of solid flooring materials, there is no need to purchase a costly power head. Instead, you will want to select the highest-quality solid-floor attach-

ment that you can. There are dozens of other tools to select from: from crevice tools to brushes to garage-specific attachments that allow you to get into every nook and cranny in your car without scratching expensive interior materials. Homeowners will appreciate many of the convenience options available, such as VacPans, which allow you to sweep your debris directly into a tray located under a cabinet to be whisked away: no more frustrating dust pans or piles of dirt to deal with. Less known, but equally handy, is the Drawer Vac. These drawers are installed into existing kitchen or bathroom cabinetry and allow you to simply brush items off the counter. Imagine being able to sweep the crumbs from your toaster off the edge of the countertop and have them sucked away with no mess and no fuss!

Autumn 2010

| 75

Installation and service Dependable Vacuums Plus offers installation and repair services for all of its products. With an onsite service centre, Dependable Vacuums Plus can service most makes and models of vacuum cleaners, both central vacuum and canister models. Proud to offer in-home service, Dependable Vacuums Plus can take care of most vacuum problems in your home, saving you from having to worry about taking your machine down and hauling it in for service. If you do choose to bring it in yourself, you will benefit from the same experienced technicians and huge selection of parts. While vacuum cleaners make up the majority of the sales for Dependable Vacuums Plus, it also offers other home-cleaning products, including the Frigidaire line of air-filtration systems. These systems are mounted close to your furnace, using the existing ductwork to clean the air in your home. With high-efficiency HEPA filtration, they can help you live a more comfortable life. Frigidaire air filtration systems can also be installed as stand-alone units, helping to clean the air in offices, warehouses or homes where forced-air installation methods are not practical.

A family business Lois Gagnon began working for Beam Vacuums in 1993, managing its Regina store. In 1998 she purchased the store from Beam and now runs it with her husband, David. Lois and David Gagnon are happy to give back to the community they call home. As long-time supporters of several charities, they also partner with Habitat For Humanity and donate a complete central vacuum system and all installation components to each new Habitat For Humanity Build in the city. In the same location for nearly 20 years, Dependable Vacuums Plus has built a reputation for honesty, trustworthiness, and quality products. D ependable Vacuu ms Plus 2703 A vonhu rst Dr. (On the cor ne r of Albe rt S tr ee t & Avonhu rs t Drive )

525-0916 sales@dependablevacu ums.com

| Autumn 2010

PHOTOS BY GRANT ROMANCIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Pet owners have an entirely different set of problems. Beam Central Vacuums have the power to lift and remove pet hair from flooring and furniture, but what if you could prevent the hair from being deposited there in the first place? Dependable Vacuums Plus offers three separate animal grooming attachments to help pet owners take charge of their petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hair. Each attachment connects to the vacuum system and straps onto the ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand. The excess hair is removed and vacuumed away all in one motion.

Expert Advice: Homes

House foundations Shaheen Zareh

President, Zarkor Incorporated 596-1470 shaheen@zarkor.ca www.zarkor.ca www.skforrent.ca

ne of the most important aspects of any personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life is their family. One of the biggest investments is your home. In order for either to survive the test of time, they require a solid foundation. Once the foundation starts to falter everything built on it will soon follow. Saskatchewan conditions are fluctuating, with changes in the moisture levels and drastic variances in temperature throughout the seasons. Here are a few simple tips to help ensure a long-lasting foundation:

Landscaping Whatever is surrounding your basement foundation should be sloped so as to shed any water a good three to five feet away from your home. Driveways and sidewalks that run along the side of your home should be checked to see if there are any places where water may seep in. If so, they can be easily sealed with one of many available cement-sealing products. The two most commonly used are AC grout or NP1 cement sealants.

There should be a carry attached to the downs that carry the water at least five feet away from your house. If your house is equipped with weeping tile and a sump-pump system, it should be set up in such a way that the water is pumped directly outside. Also, the float and propellers should be checked periodically to be sure the pump is operating properly and there are no obstructions in the way.

Steps and landings Landings, especially the cement style that are attached to your foundation walls, should be checked to ensure the base is properly supported at the ground level to avoid any pressure on your basement walls.

Parging The exterior parging should be checked for cracks or deficiencies to be sure no moisture can get in. Cracks and such can be filled with a water resistant parging mix or cement sealant.

Eaves and downspouts Your eaves and downspouts should be checked periodically to be sure they are flowing properly and there are no obstructions, such as leaves, twigs, etc.

Phone: 1.866.246.9005 www.zarkor.aitrk.com

| Autumn 2010

Autumn 2010

| 77

Expert Advice: Homes

Buying a home Wendy Joorisity

Broker Realty Executives Faith Realty 731-3321

ne of most common questions I get asked is, “When is the right time to buy”?

The answer is, “That depends!” If you are are currently renting and considering buying, here is some food for thought: if your rent today is $850 per month and you rent for the next five years, factoring in a modest fivepercent-per-year inflation, the total rent paid will be $56,382. Seeing that exorbitant amount shocks most people! When you’re trying to determine if you’re ready to buy a home, sit down with a financial expert. Your bank is a great place to start! You need to know what you can afford, the mortgage amount, taxes, utilities, insurance and the upkeep costs of a home, and then figure out how to put aside money for a down payment and closing costs like land title fees, lawyer’s fees and any inspection you may want. My advice to first-time buyers is simple: don’t buy before you can afford it. But as soon as you

can afford it, get in the market! Historically the real estate market has had ups and downs, and no real estate agent can tell you the future and give you perfect advice on what house prices will do. But if you buy today, every mortgage payment you make is building equity in your own home. At some point in the future it may be time to sell, for one reason or another. Will you sell your home for as much or more than you bought it for? Those answers cannot be given with certainty, but if past real estate prices are an indicator of future prices, your chances are pretty good. One fact you can be certain of is that every dollar you have paid in rent you will never see again. So five years from now you might as well say you have thrown away $56,382! The season of the year, combined with how many houses are listed at the time, can determine market value to a degree. With it being fall, and the fact that there is a surplus of houses on

the market at the present time, we may well see prices level off or even go down slightly for a while. Many people who decide to buy a new home will move up in the market. You may own a home now and want to upgrade to something larger or newer, and you can afford a little more now. So for you, the answer to the question, “When is the right time to buy?” may be “Now!” You may have a home worth $250,000, are planning to upgrade, and are prepared to pay $300,000 on a new home. If your current home is worth $250,000. and the market has decreased by even 10 percent, then the same home last year would have been worth $275,000. But the home you want to purchase, worth $300,000 this year, was worth $330,000 last year. That means you’ve saved $10,000 by buying up in a slightly down market! To answer to the question “When is the right to buy?”, speak with a REALTOR® you trust. We can help guide you!

PHOTO BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY MOMENTS THAT MATTER

chase the Tempstar brand. For fireplaces, you can choose from Napoleon and Montigo. There are numerous brands of water heaters, including Navien, Rinnai and John Wood. The list of plumbing-fixture companies is lengthy, but includes Delta, Neptune and Toto. Alliance also sells gas barbecues, garage heaters and ventilation systems. Kimberly points out that they can install everything they sell. This ranges from the plumbing fixtures to the furnaces, air conditioners, fireplaces, water heaters and boilers. As well as the installations and retrofitting, Alliance does service calls—including emergency troubleshooting. “In the winter, when your heat goes out, you want a company that’s able to respond promptly,” says Kimberly. “Alliance is definitely able to do that— we’re available 24/7 to help you, and our turnaround time is very quick.” Alliance employs professional staff. Bill himself has more than 15 years in the industry, and his four employees are highly qualified. Kimberly rounds out the team as Business Manager. Kimberly explains that one exceptional aspect of Alliance is the professionalism of their workers. “Our staff are experienced and reliable,” she says. “Their workmanship is the highest quality because they are meticulous about what they do. They are also very neat— they tidy up after themselves.”

Caring, competent, professional Offering complete plumbing, heating and air-conditioning services for homes both old and new BY AMY NELSON-MILE

ight years after founding Alliance Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Bill Renaud and his wife, Kimberly Lemieux Renaud, have seen the demand for their products and services grow throughout Regina, Moose Jaw and the surrounding areas.

Alliance specializes in residential and light commercial work, and tackles all kinds of projects. Kimberly says, “If you have an older home, we can retrofit your furnace, air conditioner or water heater. As well, we can add a fireplace or repair any of your plumbing.”

In addition to working with existing homes, Alliance provides everything you need to build a new home. They start with the underground rough-in stage and go all the way to completion when fixtures are installed. With the increasing popularity of radiant in-floor heat, Alliance installs highefficiency NTI and Viessmann boilers. Alliance offers all the plumbing, heating and mechanical products necessary for your dream home. There are a variety of high-end brands available. For furnaces and air conditioning, you can pur-

Kimberly sums up Alliance’s appeal by saying, “When you hire Alliance, you are putting yourselves in the hands of caring, competent professionals who want what’s best for you and will provide timely, highquality service. We provide superb value for your money.” To learn more about Alliance Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd., see www.allianceplumbing.ca. Alliance Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd. 1819 Mackay Street 586-7693 www.allianceplumbing.ca

house & home

From Sales Through Design & Installation

(306) 789-6616 490 Henderson Dr. Regina, SK, S4N 6E3

www.alpinetile.ca

| Autumn 2010

Bedroom communities

small-town life close to big-city attractions BY LEE PARENT

grew up in the “bedroom community” of Balgonie. I don’t hear that term used as often as I once did, but my father, Bob Motherwell, knew what it meant in 1955, and today it essentially means the same thing. Within commuting distance of an urban centre, a bedroom community provides homes for residents whose jobs take them to the city each day, but who crave the serenity of country life at day’s end. In the 1950s, such communities also offered a tremendous financial opportunity for struggling young families. For a fraction of the cost of a city residence, my father could build a spacious bungalow on a wide, treed lot, a lovely family home with more modern conveniences than my mother ever expected. A bonus for all of us was the freedom we gained. My sister and I were able to play outside all day, largely unsupervised, with all the neighbourhood children; my mother could leave the doors unlocked when she walked over to the corner store.

Another dividend was the sense of community that the people of Balgonie taught us, an aptitude for forming friendships akin to family ties that has served me well ever since, and done the same for many who spent their formative years in Saskatchewan towns like this.

Several within easy commuting distance Within easy commuting distance of Regina, several such communities have prospered, and these towns are multi-faceted jewels. As well as providing a refuge for career people who work in the city, each offers a centre for residents who make their living right there in their own hometown. There are teachers and school administrators, store keepers and restaurant owners, town maintenance workers and councillors, all of whom keep the wheels of the community turning smoothly, so those who leave every day to work in the city can come

home to all the qualities that attracted them to small-town living in the first place. Regina sits at the junction of several highways and each of them takes the explorer to several locales within easy commuting distance. To the west you find Pense and Grand Coulee, among others; to the south there are Milestone and Lang. Straight north, there’s Southey, and to the southeast, Kronau, Vibank and Sedley. Head northwest and you come upon Lumsden, Craven and several Beaches: many choices, each with its own character, but all with friendly inhabitants who will welcome new residents. Considering such a relocation in 1955, my father oscillated between Balgonie and Lumsden. His final choice was based on direction. Commuting to Lumsden, the sun would be in his eyes both morning and night, and going to and from Balgonie, the sun would be at his back. So he purchased two 50-foot lots in Balgonie, for $35 each, as I recall. (Ironically enough, I later met my

Autumn 2010

| 83

Feel all the passion, and all the thrills of 3D Hollywood movies right in your livingroom.

352-3030 2100A Dewdney Ave.

www.radiocentre.ca 84

| Autumn 2010

husband at a track meet in Lumsden. He grew up in Pilot Butte, where he lived in the train station.) In my childhood, the epicentre of many a small town was the rink. In Balgonie in the 1960s, the skating rink and curling rink stood side by side, and it seemed that I grew up there, what with skating and hockey and broomball and curling, and all the social events that accompanied those sports. Also prominent was the town hall, which I remember mostly for oldtime dances (and later “teen hops”), but which once provided a venue for the funeral of a beloved young man and the wedding of a charming young lady, all in one week. There was a hotel which also held a coffee shop and the “beverage parlour,” and a general store and a post office. Across the railroad tracks lay the “sports grounds” where school track meets and baseball tournaments took place, and a dugout where I rafted as a child and washed my car as a teenager. Each day, many of the men left for their jobs in the city and each

evening they returned. Not many wives worked in those days, so they stayed home and felt secure, because Balgonie was a peaceful, serene community. There’s still a lot of that perception in these communities, and the residents treasure a sense of security that city dwellers will never know.

Realtors understand the appeal Many local realtors are aware of the lure of a rural community; not only do they list and sell residences outside the city limits, but they’ve moved there themselves. Dave Markus, with Century 21 Conexus, lived in Pilot Butte for about seven years before moving to White City three years ago. “My wife grew up in a small town and we liked the idea of being in a smaller community a little distance away from the hustle and bustle of the city,” he explains when asked about their motivation to leave the city. Markus quickly lists several positive aspects of small-town living. “There is a real sense of community when you live in a small town. You know your neighbours and they know you,” he says. “People are friendlier and more helpful than in the city. In Pilot Butte you are close enough to Regina that you can order a pizza to your door, but far

Autumn 2010

| 85

| Autumn 2010

enough that you can let your kids ride their bikes down the street.” Another benefit, in Markus’s opinion: “If you are into hockey, then two big thumbs up for Prairie Storm Minor Hockey out there.” As for Roberta Peakman, another realtor with Century 21 Conexus, she and her husband Ken call Balgonie home and have for six years now. Their sports-minded children have enjoyed the school system there and benefited from the opportunities offered by various sports programs. Peakman doesn’t usually mind the commute to the Century 21 Conexus office on South Albert Street. Licensed to do commercial and farm real estate as well as residential, she serves clients throughout the Regina market area, but often lists or sells properties in her hometown.

TransCanada traffic worth the reward There must be at least a few negative aspects that prospective residents might consider, I suggest, but Peakman denies it. “There are

no negatives,” she says emphatically. Eventually she admits that traffic on the TransCanada can be a little daunting, but she says most commuters find that a negligible trade-off, well worth the effort in return for the escape from the city that so many crave after a long day at work. Markus agrees with that summation. “The closest thing to a negative I can come up with about being out of town is you have more limitations on your transportation choices,” he says. “Around the town it doesn't much matter because you can walk or ride your bike to any other place in town in about 10 minutes, but if you want to go to Regina you pretty much need to have a car. You can't just catch the bus downtown or to work.” With so many different bedroom communities within easy reach of the city limits, house hunters can almost certainly find one that suits them. Whether you long for a home on the golf course, an arena for winter sports, or a lot the size of an acreage, one or another of these small towns will fulfill your desire...and provide peace, quiet and lovely scenery besides.

Autumn 2010

| 87

Expert Advice: Properties

Real Estate Law Matt Sirois, B.A. (Hons) L.L.B. Barrister & Solicitor Sirois Law Firm, P.C. 2424 College Ave. Phone: 306.585.6288

he purchase or sale of a home can be a busy time, to say the least. A good real estate lawyer should be able to anticipate and handle all legal issues that arise between the signature date of the offer to purchase and the possession date. At the outset, my experience tells me that buyers of property are typically looking for the keys to their home on possession day. The sellers are waiting to receive the cheque from the proceeds of the sale of their property. Indeed, working as a real estate lawyer involves completing numerous tasks prior to possession so as to ensure that the buyer’s and seller’s legal rights are protected. As a starting point, the real estate lawyer will review the offer to purchase to ensure that all terms and conditions included in the contract are met prior to possession.

• The property is insured in accordance with the mortgage instructions; • Bridge financing is in place if the buyers are taking possession of the property prior to the sale of their home; • The surveyor’s certificate is examined to ensure that there are no encroachments on the property. If a survey is not available, the client must either obtain a new surveyor’s certificate or purchase title insurance. The cost to obtain a new survey will be in the $400 to $600 range while the cost of title insurance will be between $200 and $300; • All tax adjustments are made as of the possession date; • The transaction closes on time. When representing the seller, the lawyer must ensure that:

When representing a buyer, the real estate lawyer must ensure that:

• Proper transfer designation is obtained and transfer authorization is executed by the sellers;

• The client obtains clear and marketable title to the property free from encumbrances such as liens and caveats, etc.;

• Real estate commissions as well as the mortgages are paid out;

• All mortgage obligations are met and understood by the clients;

• All tax adjustments are made as of the possession date; • The transaction closes on time.

I note that if a client is buying a condominium, it is prudent to have the real estate lawyer review the estoppel certificate for numerous reasons, including to ensure that the reserve fund contains sufficient funds to cover the cost of substantial renovations to the condo units. The issue of cost is always important to clients. As such, real estate lawyer fees are established by the Law Society of Saskatchewan and they are set out in a schedule produced by the LSS. That being said, we can aIways sharpen our pencil in order to put money in our client’s pockets. In addition to legal fees, the buyers are responsible to pay land titles fees to transfer the property in their names and register the mortgage with ISC. Most importantly, a real estate lawyer should be accessible to his or her clients. At Sirois Law Firm, P. C., we have developed an open-door policy with clients, lenders and realtors in discussing real estate issues. Over time, this approach simplifies real estate transactions, which, in turn, alleviates the stress burden on clients. Feel free to call 585-6288 for a free consultation, or send the offer to purchase by fax to 5856362.

Cozying up to autumn The transition from summer to fall is a good time to rejuvenate your home BY CORRIE KRZYSIK

all has arrived! Some will welcome it with open arms. Others will feel it’s the beginning of the long, cold and drawnout winter months to follow. I can happily say autumn is my favourite season! With all of the craziness we have in the summer months, vacationing and finding activities for our children to be involved in, I find a sense of calm and routine as soon as September begins.

Favourite season I’ve loved fall as long as I can remember. I am from a family of grain farmers, and this time of year is, of course, the most important to get the crop off. I would often come home from school to home-baked cookies and the warm scent of candles burning. As we would take the prepared meals out to the field, I would find myself collecting unique fallen leaves that had developed into the most amazing fall colours: reds, golds, bronzes and

oranges. As I’ve grown up, these memories have never left, and I still pursue all of these same things when fall arrives! There is nothing that makes me happier than the scent of caramel-applescented candles, putting on a favorite sweater and slippers, and a loaf of banana bread baking in the oven. I find relaxation in watching the leaves change to those vibrant fall colours and slowly hit the ground. I also find myself nesting, rather like an expectant mother. As the new school year begins, and the months lead up to winter, I know it’s the best time to organize and rejuvenate my home…and those of others. During the spring and summer months we tend to put everything else in our lives aside. We are busy outdoors primping our yards, vacationing with our families and spending time at the cottage, coming home just long enough to wash our clothes and pack the groceries to go again for yet another weekend! So there is no better time than now to

get your home back into order, organize and rejuvenate your space. I love putting away the summer clothes and flip flops and making ample room for the fuzzy sweaters and boots! When I go about putting the summer things away, I find it a great time to purge those things I’m bored with or that may not work out for the next summer (namely kids’ things they will have outgrown). This is organization that you will greatly appreciate when you go to bring the articles out next year. The time spent now will save you time in the long run!

Organizing leads to rejuvenation Once you begin the seasonal organizing, you will inherit a mood leading you to the rejuvenation process of your entire home. This will definitely clear your mind and spark your decorative vision! Have you had the same bath

Autumn 2010

| 89

towels for years? Do you purchase warmer bed linens for the colder months? How often do you give your home a fresh coat of paint? These are simple little things that you can do to rejuvenate your home, and ultimately yourself. We tend to think that it has to be a big project or a big purchase to create this rejuvenation. But simple things that cost little money may be all you need to achieve change in your life and your home. But, for some of you, even these little changes can appear intimidating. “Where do I start?”; “In what order do I start changing things?”; “What do I keep and what should I get rid of ?”; “Can anything be salvaged?”; “Can I do these things myself to save money?” If these are some of the questions going through your mind, or you already feel anxious and somewhat stressed, it’s time to call in a professional to help you with your needs. CK One can help you with all of your organization wants and desires! It’s well worth a phone call to have a successful transition and peace of mind, and treat your pocketbook responsibly.

Doing it yourself not always cheaper Often we think being “do-it-yourselfers” will save money. This does not always work out in your favour. I have found that more money (and time) is spent experimenting and having to redo things than by calling in a professional, who has ideas as an outsider looking in. I initially made the career move to consultant and designer with the notion that I would help people with the building of their new homes. Little did I realize that there would be endless opportunity in this field that would take me in directions other than new builds! I have had the opportunity to be involved in many renovation projects; I’ve designed kitchens and other spaces; I’ve been the painter that we all search for on the spur of the moment; I’ve been called for the finishing touches and the rearranging of furniture. But the request I love the most is the “I need you to shop for accessories” phone call! This is the job I feel the most satisfaction performing! It reaps the most benefits by showing off the final touches of a long and enduring project. When I enter your home to provide a consultation, I bring knowledge, ideas, passion and the desire to be successful in every aspect of your project. A consultation is the best way to go over your needs and wants in the project you want to tackle. It allows us to create a game plan that will make you pleasantly surprised and happy with the job at completion.

Let a professional help There is always something one may not see or think about when it comes time to making design or décor decisions. These are the areas that are often thought of by professionals, because we have probably experienced similar situations in the past. You cannot possibly think of everything, as there are endless possibilities in everything we do! You may need assistance in narrowing down these immense options! When you have the desire to rejuvenate your current space or ability to build your dream home, CK ONE provides the following services: • organization and space planning; • colour palettes; • decor and personal shopping; • lighting; • new home build or renovation planning; • accessorizing; • staging for home resale I have an abundance of pride and excitement in everything I do.

| Autumn 2010

Your personal home challenges and boredoms will undoubtedly be successful with the help of CK ONE. Even if you pursue the project on your own, it doesn’t hurt to have a second opinion, especially one of a professional with an eye!

Happy customers “We had been thinking of and planning a renovation for six years. This past spring we finally said ‘enough is enough’ and sought some assistance. Corrie with CK One was a perfect fit for us! She was energetic and full of exciting ideas! She helped with choosing hardwood, a paint pallet, lighting and décor. When I say ‘with’ I mean WITH us…she found out what our styles were and went with them when providing us several options. Although our renovation is happen-

ing in stages, Corrie gave us suggestions that allow us to take our time proceeding to the next phase (which wall to remove, which windows to replace, what lighting to purchase for future needs, how to arrange existing furniture and what décor can be purchased to give an area ‘spark.’) And a bonus was her picking out the décor and bringing it to us! Corrie is professional and has know-how for design, décor and spatial rejuvenation! She is constantly researching styles, trends and products which allows for excellent ideas for her clients. I strongly recommend using CK One with your build, renovation or simple update and organize!”—Trish Patrick “Working with Corrie was a great experience! We did a fairly major renovation of our kitchen/great room and Corrie was there to pick out the perfect colours to go with the areas we already had and

weren’t changing. The tile for the backsplash and fireplace were exactly what we wanted, but weren’t able to find. Corrie knew just the suppliers to go to and walked us through the process. Her choices for décor to finish everything off were amazing! Corrie made time to go furniture shopping on my time schedule. Because I live an hour and a half from Regina, I really appreciated that. She was also able to sit with me as I went through catalogues, and then from that was able to pick pieces that I love absolutely. Her enthusiasm is boundless and contagious. We were very lucky to have her right by our side to make our new space fabulous! We couldn’t be happier with the finished product!”—The Wright Family CK On e Cor rie Krzysik 306.351- 8425

Autumn 2010

| 91

house & homes These treatments range from light-filtering to room-darkening, but also come with a blackout option. “These are by far our most popular window treatments,” said Rob. “They also come with four different lift systems so that customers can find the solution that works best for their living space, including completely cordless which is perfect for young families with children.”

Classic, modern or wooden The potential is endless for window coverings with Graber’s LightWeaves® Roller and Solar Shades collections. The amount of light in the room will always be right with this line of window treatments that help you manage the light and glare with fabrics in an assortment of weights and colour to complement your décor.

Beautiful blinds Meeting customers’ needs for top-quality window treatments isn’t just a job, it’s a passion BY LISA HUESER

ocally owned and operated in Regina, Phillips Blinds & Shades has the experience and the product knowledge to help you with your window covering needs.

Owned by Rob and Linda Phillips, Phillips Blinds & Shades has a reputation built on customer service, with more than 30 years of experience in the industry and offering free installation to its customers. At Phillips Blinds & Shades you will find a wide assortment of Graber Window Fashions—a brand that has been around for 70 years, and features beautiful, top-quality window treatments including Cellular Shades, Faux Wood Blinds, Horizontal Blinds, Roman, Roller and Solar Shades, to name just a few. Graber’s 70-year tradition is also backed-up with a lifetime guarantee on all of its products.

Also popular are the Graber Traditions® Wood Composite Blinds and Lake Forest® Faux Wood Blinds—offering a functionalbut-stylish alternative to natural wood blinds. Available in a wide assortment of colours, these fetching blinds resist moisture and humidity and are ideal for the kitchen and bathroom. And, unlike natural wood, these blinds resist warping.

Not just a job, a passion “This isn’t just a job for us, it’s a passion,” said Linda. “We strive for the utmost customer service and give our customers a great shopping experience. Based on our large referral rate, we are meeting our customers’ expectations.” For a free in-home estimate, give Phillips Blinds & Shades a call today!

“Carrying a product that you believe in, like Graber, makes it easy to sell with complete confidence to our customers,” says Rob Phillips.

Understanding market demands In an industry that is demanding more home energy efficiency, CrystalPleat® Cellular Shades insulate windows to keep rooms warmer during Saskatchewan’s sub-zero winters and cooler in the hot summers.

| Autumn 2010

Phillips Blinds & Shades 516 Victoria Ave. E. Regina, SK 525-4637

The freedom to choose Building a custom home ensures your house reflects who you are and how you live BY TRILBY HENDERSON

n today’s housing market, says Garry Sawchyn, owner of Emerald Park Homes, “Nothing compares to custom home building when it comes to giving homeowners the creative control to construct a home that truly reflects who they are and how they choose to live.” Whether this means including an open layout built for entertaining, a quiet alcove where they can pursue a beloved hobby, or a luxurious master bedroom where they can unwind and relax, custom home building gives homeowners the freedom to choose. For Howard and Connie Luedtke, building a custom home allowed them to perfectly combine old-world elegance and contemporary class into a unique design that fulfills all of their ideas of what a home should be. Thanks to a solid team of professionals, including the

staff at Emerald Park Homes, CNG Stone Products Ltd. and Cougar Custom Cabinets, the Luedtkes are not only living in a home they love, but were able to enjoy the process that got them there. Howard and Connie already had some experience with the homebuilding process, having built the Regina home where they previously lived. However, Connie says the experience was much different this time around, partly because the couple had a better idea of who they were and what they wanted and partly because their builder, Emerald Park Homes, offers clients a virtually unlimited building palette. “I really felt that we were making more decisions than the first time,” she says.

Seeking the right builder The Luedtkes spent several months working with a designer to perfect the layout of their new home before beginning their search for the right homebuilder. The quality of work they found in Emerald Park Homes made that decision easy. “We saw some of [Garry’s] work and we were very happy. That’s when we decided to go with him,” says Connie. “He’s a fantastic guy, a hands-on guy. That makes a difference.” Plus, Emerald Park Homes has access to a great selection of lots in the Regina, Pilot Butte and White City areas, including acreages, bay and walkout lots, and properties near the golf course and proposed new school, making it easy for new homeowners to find the perfect location for their family.

Autumn 2010

| 95

| Autumn 2010

PHOTOS BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO PHOTOGRAPHY

The Luedtkes expect the community’s smalltown feel and friendly, safe environment will provide a relaxing oasis from the hustle and bustle of city life while allowing them to remain connected to Regina, where they own and operate two businesses: Northgate Sewing Centre and Peachtree Quilt Shop. The couple’s new three-bedroom, three-bathroom home features more than 3,800 square feet of living space. Connie says she and Howard both had concrete ideas of what they wanted in their home. For example, in designing the home’s interior, Connie chose to use only natural materials, such as granite, marble and hardwood. She also chose to give the home’s main floor the old-world, Tuscan charm she had fallen in love with during the couple’s trips to Europe, while incorporating more contemporary design features in the lower level. “Now I’ve got the best of both worlds,” Connie says. By enabling each other to take control over the areas that were important to them, they were able to combine their efforts into creating a home that satisfied all of their needs. For example, the home’s driveway, deck, three gas fireplaces and in-floor heating were all features that were important to Howard. Connie, on the other hand, focused much of her attention on creating her dream kitchen.

The main kitchen is clearly one of the most stunning areas of the Luedtkes’ home, and fully embraces the authentic Tuscan charm Connie sought to create. A ceramic tile floor, warm colour palette, and lots of natural light combine to give the room a welcoming, comfortable feel perfect for sharing a cup of coffee with a friend or cooking up a large meal for a group gathering. The heart of the kitchen is, of course, the cabinetry built by Cougar Custom Cabinets of Regina. The family-run business, owned by Ken and Sherry Kraushaar, has been building and installing custom-made cabinets for more than 28 years, and takes pride in offering clients the most innovative designs, materials and techniques available on the market. For their kitchen, Connie selected solid maple cabinets, lacquered off-white and glazed with a rich, dark-brown stain in keeping with her Tuscan style. She chose a dark-brown maple island to create contrast within the kitchen and connect the space to the open living room by matching the colour of the wood flooring and fireplace mantel. The Luedtkes say they received an outstanding level of customer service and were impressed with the fact that Ken not only made himself accessible to them, but really listened to what they wanted. “Our experience working with Ken was wonderful,” says Connie. “I would have to say that he’s a very talented, gifted cabinet maker. He not only does the job, but he’s a good creator.” The company provided the Luedtkes with a 3D design of each of the cabinets they had planned for the house, enabling them to easily visualize how the cabinets would fit into each space and function with their needs. “That was very helpful,” says Connie. “That was very big.” Since every aspect of each cabinet is constructed at the company’s workshop, Cougar Custom Cabinets maintains complete control over the quality of their workmanship and the final products they produce. They are also able to fulfill unique requests that mass cabinet manufacturers cannot meet. In fact, Ken has a reputation for tackling new challenges and thinking outside of the box to achieve the look and functionality his customers desire. In the Luedtke kitchen, Ken faced the challenge of constructing cabinets that could accommodate the numerous high-end, cutting edge appliances the couple had chosen, including an extra-wide cook top and built-in microwave drawer. He also included an ap-

PHOTOS BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO PHOTOGRAPHY

Custom cabinets, quality stone work

PHOTOS BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO PHOTOGRAPHY

pliance lift for Connie’s large mixer: instead of her having to haul the heavy mixer in and out of a cupboard, the pull-out shelf on which the appliance sits can be raised to counter height and then lowered back into place when it’s not needed. Cougar Custom Cabinets also constructed the cabinetry in the home’s bathrooms, laundry and lower-level mini-kitchen. In keeping with the more contemporary appeal of the lower level, the maple cabinetry throughout the basement was finished with a deepbrown, hand-rubbed stain. When Connie expressed her desire to give the bar-height counter in the mini kitchen a bit of extra flair, Ken added a stainless-steel panel along the bottom. He also suggested additional cabinets for the laundry room in order to maximize the storage potential of the space—a suggestion Connie is very happy she listened to. Of course, no cabinet is complete without its crowning touch—the countertop—and nothing combines beauty and durability like natural stone. The Luedtkes considered a couple of different companies, but Connie says she was immediately impressed with CNG Stone Products Ltd. the first time she walked through the business’s front door and was greeted by owner Scott Tresek. “It was Scott’s helpfulness that drew me in,” says Connie. “We received good customer service.” Their first impression proved true, as the Luedtkes found that CNG Stone continued to deliver a level of customer service beyond their expectations. In fact, providing outstanding customer service is one of the cornerstones on which the Regina-based company has built its business. The other is the quality workmanship and expertise it brings to each custom granite and concrete project it completes. In the Luedtke home, CNG’s craftsmanship is most apparent in the kitchen, where it was able to fulfill Connie’s unique-but-challenging request for a large granite island countertop featuring an Ogee edge with a full bullnose edge laminated onto it. “When I wanted something, they really bent over backwards to find it,” says Connie. It was CNG who recognized the need to double the thickness of the rest of the kitchen countertops to match that of the island. “We knew the island would look nice and thick because of the laminated edge, and we had concerns that the rest of the kitchen, if not laminated, wouldn’t look right, so we just did it,” says Scott. The company made sure the rest of the countertop was kept simple with clean lines so as not to take the focus away from the island. “You could tell that they wanted it to look

good because they knew their name was behind it,” says Connie. “A couple of times, they just bit the bullet and did things that they felt were needed. I didn’t recognize that and they did. They took the extra step.” Connie says they had also planned to accent the living-room fireplace with granite, but instead chose to follow Scott’s suggestion that the lighter look of marble would be a better fit. Once again, Connie and Howard found that Scott’s advice was right on the mark to achieving the look they wanted.

Building to fit your lifestyle When homeowners purchase a used home, they generally have two options: they can try to live within the design of the previous homeowner or they can embark on a series of renovations in an attempt to express their personal tastes on somebody else’s canvas. Building a custom home, on the other hand, allows homeowners to cultivate a personal sanctuary catered to their specific needs,

complete with all of the comforts they require to enjoy life to the fullest. Upon entering the home, guests are greeted with an open view of the large kitchen and living room, complete with coffered ceilings and a stunning fireplace. Distressed hardwood floors throughout the main level keep with Connie’s old-world look, as do her choice of light fixtures. The expansive master bedroom—the only bedroom on the main floor—also features a coffered ceiling, hardwood floor and fireplace. Connie chose to raise the fireplace from its standard location so that it would be visible from the bed. Although this posed a challenge for Garry because of the placement of the living room fireplace on the opposite side of the wall, Connie says he readily set to work finding a way to make it happen. “Garry was very easy to work with. He was very open to my ideas, not negative right from the get-go. He was just positive,” says Connie. “He’d never say, ‘We can’t,’ and that’s what made it such a good experience.”

The old-world appeal of the main level is carried into the couple’s ensuite bathroom through details such as the travertine tile walls, glass-walled shower complete with pebbled floor, and hand-glazed cabinetry. Initially, Connie had planned to include both a large walk-in closet and a main-floor laundry room off the ensuite, but the shape of the lot meant there wasn’t enough room for both. Having to make small concessions can sometimes be part of the building process, but most homeowners will find that they have a great say in what those concessions are when they work with a custom homebuilder who understands what they want. In this situation, Connie opted to keep the large closet and move the laundry room downstairs, where there was plenty of space. “It was not a problem once I made the decision. We did it, and I’m very happy,” she says. A stairway near the master suite leads to a private, second-storey alcove, complete with both large window peaks and skylights. For other homeowners, the space would lend it-

Autumn 2010

| 99

house & home

The above photo has been compiled to showcase the entire bathroom

self well to use as an office or even a children’s playroom; for Connie, it only has one ideal purpose—to serve as her sewing studio. “Of course, because sewing is our business, this room was very important to me,” she says. From the main floor, another stairway leads down to the walkout basement. The low, wall-recessed lights along the stairway give guests the first indication that the home’s lower level will have a more contemporary appearance. One of the most eye-catching features of the lower level is the tiled, wide-screen fireplace. Rather than focusing the attention on the immediate area surrounding the fireplace, the Luedtkes chose to continue the slatecoloured tile surround across the entire wall. “We wanted to make a big statement, so we went across the whole wall. When people walk down here, it’s the first thing that catches their attention because it definitely is a focus wall,” says Connie.

Although it includes an impressive laundry room, storage area, bathroom and two bedrooms—one of which has already been claimed for use by the couple’s granddaughter when she visits—the focus of the lower level is the sizeable great room and ingenious corner mini kitchen. With its own dishwasher, fridge, and microwave, Connie says the smaller custom kitchen will make entertaining on their lower deck much more convenient, because it eliminates the need to run upstairs to the main kitchen. Most of the exterior work, including the stucco, stone, deck and railing, was completed by Bar T Construction and Prestainer Ltd., a company owned by a member of the Luedtkes’ family. Howard says he appreciated Garry’s willingness to work with Bar T Construction on their home, and found that everyone worked well under Garry’s leadership. “They respect his knowledge and eagerness to do a good job,” he says.

Planning pays off The Luedtkes initially invested a lot of time in planning their new home, but found that their efforts paid off by making the rest of the process easier. “I found that, through spending time looking at books, when it came time to pick things out, I had a pretty good feel for who I was and what I wanted,” Connie says. “It made it a very good experience that way.” Even though they had concrete ideas of what they liked and disliked before they began, Howard and Connie both found that working with Emerald Park Homes and trades people like CNG Stone Products and Cougar Custom Cabinets, whose expertise they could rely on, made a big difference when it came to making the right decisions along the way. “All along, the tradespeople we’ve dealt with have been excellent,” says Howard. “Really, they went all out.”

.................................................................................................... Emerald Park Homes 64 Gr eat Plai ns Rd. Emerald Park 781- 3383 emeraldparkhomes@sasktel.n et w ww.emeraldparkhomes.ca

CNG Stone P roducts 1445 Scar th St. 585-9876 sales@cn gstone.com w ww.cngstone.com

Cougar Custom Cabi nets 440 Maxw ell Cr es. 924- 0240 i nfo@cougar cabinets.com www.cougarcabin ets.com

Autumn 2010

| 101

feature story

Hardwood Floors

1580 Albert Street Regina, SK, S4P 2S4 (306) 525-9125 104

| Autumn 2010

Autumn 2010

| 104

More outdoor living... Screen enclosures make Saskatchewan outdoors more enjoyable BY RYAN HOLOTA

e’d all choose to spend more time outdoors if we didn’t have to fight the bugs and the wind. Well, good news! There is a local company that offers the perfect solution: DGL Suncoast Screen Enclosures. Owner Don Larwood lives in Regina and operates his company throughout Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Northwest Ontario regions. He began his company nine years ago after being in a Suncoast Screen Enclosure at his sister-in-law’s house in Winnipeg. Since he worked in the construction business, Larwood could appreciate how unique and practical Suncoast Screen Enclosures are, and in a short time contacted the manufacturer and headed off for training.

“The neatest things” “I thought they were the neatest things and immediately knew that I had to bring them back to Saskatchewan,” says Larwood. With continued success and increased demand, DGL expanded to the other provinces and still continues to grow while maintaining and providing the top-notch quality it believes in. DGL Suncoast understands the challenges of outdoor living in Saskatchewan. “Being able to enjoy all the outdoor benefits, without all the nuisance, is something we actually need to engineer,” says Ken MacMurchy, Sales and Marketing Manager. ”We create the room so that it has a real open feeling, and not a sense of being enclosed in an indoor space.”

DGL Suncoast’s Screen Enclosures offer effective protection from the wind. “One of our customers had a magazine sitting on a table in her screen room and although the wind reached 106 kph, the magazine stayed intact,” MacMurchy notes. Screen enclosures allow homeowners to leave their patio furniture out without the worry of it being blown around or sun-bleached: the screens can cut ultraviolet rays by up to 80 percent. Sun blockage is very appealing to those with children, as is protection from the threat of mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile Virus.

Autumn 2010

| 105

“

We enjoy our family nights in our screen room. It’s a whole new living space added to our home.

”

–Trudy Kohonick The temperature within the screen enclosure can be kept ideal as well. MacMurchy says that on hot days the temperature is not like sitting in direct sun. People can monitor the room by installing a ceiling fan for extra air flow, or patio heaters for evenings and the cooler months. “Some of our customers make them into a complete living space, adding kitchen systems, furniture, TV, lamps, etc. It makes a perfect area for entertaining or spending quality family time playing board games or enjoying a nice meal.”

Add-ons or free-standing DGL Suncoast offers screen enclosures as both add-ons to a house or as free-standing structures over hot tubs or pools. They are very helpful in minimising the debris that can get into the water. Less cleaning means more relaxation time and enjoyment. Gazebo-style standalones work well when you have a special place in your yard where you like to spend time. “Unlike other companies, our product is custom-built on site,” MacMurchy says. “We retrofit, because all homes are completely different with deck sizes, roof lines and posts. There are so many variables. Screening walls to a building with an existing overhang is very popular as well.” For those customers wanting a “Three-Season Room,” says MacMurchy, “we have incorporated into our design the ‘Vertical Four-Track’ window system. These windows can be fitted to an enclosure when it is constructed, or anytime in the future. The window panels slide up or down to expose the screen on the other side, thus opening the entire wall to the outside. They can slide back into place to provide a three-season room, allowing a more controlled room temperature even on those extra-cool days. “These rooms are an excellent storage space in the winter because all the outdoor furniture can simply remain in it,” McMurchy adds. “This eliminates all the hassle of trying to pack it in storage sheds.”

Lifetime warranty All of the structures are made of powdercoated aluminum framing, which comes with a lifetime warranty. In addition, homeowners have a choice of three options for their roofs:

106

| Autumn 2010

a screen roof, a Lexan roof (a transparent roof made of polycarbonite), or one that completely blocks the sun.

“

We have enjoyed our screen enclosure and only wish we had done it a lot sooner.

”

–Art and Linda S.

“The Lexan roof is a top option,” says MacMurchy, “because it can withstand hail and it allows a soft light in that gives an effect almost like a greenhouse.” It is available in three different tints and has a 10-year warranty. Customers sometimes wonder about the durability of the screen enclosures because they have pets. MacMurchy says that this is definitely not a problem, because the screens are made of fibreglass: pets can’t scratch through them. ”We have a client whose cat loves to climb up and soak in the sun.” Customers can even have a doggie door installed, allowing their pets freedom to roam without disrupting their owners’ lives. Homeowners who are interested in obtaining a quote for a DGL Suncoast Screen Enclosure are advised not to procrastinate: during the busy season a typical turnaround time is six to eight weeks.

To view photos or for an estimate quote, contact DGL Su ncoast Scr een En closur es Phone (306) 761 1801 Toll-Fr ee 1 877 449 5106 www.dglsu ncoast.com

The choice is clear Customer service, professional standards set this window-cleaning company apart BY AMY NELSON-MILE

omeowners who are looking for a well-established, professional window cleaning company need look no farther than Western CML Cleaners Ltd. Under the skilled leadership of Brenda Oates, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer, Western CML Cleaners Ltd. provides a number of different services in addition to window cleaning: eavestrough cleaning, awning cleaning, pressure washing, caulking and construction clean-up. The company has years of experience in providing exactly what its customers want. Founded in 1994, Western CML Cleaners Ltd. came under its current management in 2005 when Peter Morin began managing the company, with Oates working with him. In 2009 Morin bought the company and Oates became General Manager and Chief Operating Officer. Morin com-

ments, “We saw the potential for the company to grow and develop.” Oates is one of the few women in the Saskatchewan window-cleaning business, and she is passionate about her work. “I love it. I love going out and talking with our clients, meeting with them, and following up with them.”

Customer service Western CML Cleaners Ltd. cares deeply about customer service. As Oates says, “the customer is the most important person.” She believes the way to provide the best service is to interact regularly with customers, from the time the company is hired until the work is done. “We always like to go out and meet with clients right at the start and talk with them personally,” she says. “You develop a better rapport

with them.” Homeowners will find that the job will be done very thoroughly. Windows are cleaned with no streaks and the frames and ledges are cleaned as well. Oates stresses, “I would like the work done how I would want my house to be done—and I am pretty particular.” Once the work is done, workers make sure they stay until the customer inspects the completed work and is comfortable with how it has been done. If homeowners aren’t home at the time the work is completed, Oates follows up with a phone call, and if something needs to be redone, the crew goes back out promptly to do so. “If you’re not happy, we’ll go out and do the job until you are satisfied,” says Oates. Not only is the work done carefully and thoroughly, it is done with meticulous attention to safety standards. Morin points

Autumn 2010

| 107

out that many people think that anyone can clean windows, but in fact, â&#x20AC;&#x153;window-cleaners are professionals. They need to know how the equipment works and they need to have lots of training in safety standards.â&#x20AC;?

Safety first After Morin bought the company he invested heavily in creating the safest work environment possible. He bought five new trucks and lots of smaller equipment to replace older items that were no longer safe

108

| Autumn 2010

to use. All workers are trained in safety procedures, and the company began the process of qualifying for a safety certificate of recognition: when it receives the certificate in 2011, it will be the only windowcleaning company in the province to have it. Western CML Cleaners Ltd. cares so deeply about safety simply because it is aware of the many potential risks involved with cleaning windows. Morin points out that it is wiser for homeowners to hire a professional company to do the windows

rather than hiring someone who is just passing through the neighbourhood, or even attempting to do it on their own. If a casual worker is cleaning the windows on your property and falls, the homeowner is liable. On the other hand, if a worker employed by Western CML Cleaners Ltd. is hired, that person is covered by Workers Compensation. Similarly, homeowners can avoid potential injury, and ensure a job well done, by hiring Western CML Cleaners Ltd.

There is no greater compliment to a company than the praise of their satisfied clients, and Western CML Cleaners Ltd. has many of these. Dale Ward and Thelma Kosior say, “We had Western CML Cleaners Ltd. clean our windows, deck glass and interior mirror-clad skylight. They have been pleasant to deal with, always prompt with their appointments and extremely capable. We like the way they run their business.” Bob Halbgewachs of Varsity Homes uses the compoany and speaks very highly of it. “They’re very prompt in what they do and very professional. Outside windows are a tough job to begin with, but they got out to our show homes and completed the job in between rainstorms.” Walter Lubenow Director, Technical Services for NewWest Enterprise Property Group (Sask.) Inc., agrees. He uses Western CML Cleaners Ltd. to clean windows on the street level and higher for various office and commercial buildings and is very pleased with its work. He notes the company ensures that its workers are professionally trained in safety standards. “They are all certified by the Construction Safety Association before they complete any high-stage work.” In addition, he says, Western CML Cleaders Ltd.’s customer service is top-notch. “I’m very happy with their service. When we have a request and need something last minute there’s no problem in completing the task. They ensure the staff are courteous and prompt in arriving to the site.” It’s not just the customers who are happy with Western CML Cleaners Ltd., though. Once Morin bought the company, he attracted good workers by increasing salaries and providing pensions and benefits. Oates says, “We’re a close-knit company. We take pride in our employees, and we’re glad that we can provide a warm, professional work environment for them.” As a professional organization, Western CML Cleaners Ltd. also gives back to the community regularly. It has provided free window-cleaning services to non-profits such as the Regina Alternative Measures Program and Stepping Stones Day Care. It has also donated to the Elizabeth Fry Society and has participated in the Kiwanis Christmas hamper program. It’s all part of the caring approach that is a trademark of everything that Western CML Cleaners Ltd. does. We ste r n CML Cle aners Ltd. 2802 Dewdney Ave. 584-1347

PHOTOS BY DIGNEY PHOTOGRAPHICS LTD

Satisfied clients

business

BOTH EXHIBITORS AND ATTENDEES GET SOME FACE-TO-FACE TIME AT THE CHAMBER’S BUSINESS TO BUSINESS EXPO.

Big ideas The Regina and District Chamber of Commerce works to keep business booming BY CAROL TODD

askatchewan is renowned for the innovative spirit of its people. From ATM machines to dog food, and from Girl Guide cookies to rock-pickers, big ideas seem to as much a part of our collective make-up as wheat fields and the Riders.

Even back when our Queen City was still just a pile of bones beside the railroad tracks, the good folks of Regina were already thinking ahead. Sometime in the mid-1880s, they had the big idea to form a Board of Trade to attract and support enterprise in the fledgling community. The first business organization in the province, it set the stage for, not only modern business advocacy groups, but for what would become the non-government agencies (NGO) of today. “It was the precursor to today’s NGOs. It worked on behalf of the community,” says John Hop-

kins, Chief Executive Officer of the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce. A lot has changed in those 100-plus years, and the organization has evolved to offer a range of services to its members and the people and businesses of Regina and area. The Chamber now boasts more than 1,100 members from a wide array of backgrounds, sizes and types of organizations.

Autumn 2010

| 111

business

While it has changed to meet the times, Hopkins says the Chamber remains true to its main role as an advocate for business. “While we have always spoken on behalf of the economic arm of the community, including tourism for many years, our core is business advocacy and we continue to get involved on many business issues,” says Hopkins.

no longer a good way to measure how much you should pay for education.

The Big Idea

In the 2009-10 budget, the province cut the education portion of property taxes by $103 million and promised to cut another $53 million in 2010-11. But last year's $2-billion revenue shortfall put the second phase of education property tax cuts on hold.

One of those issues that has stayed front and centre over the years is taxation. A little more than a year ago, the Chamber came up with a solution to many homeowners’ civic tax woes: The Big Idea. Like all the best big ideas, it’s really quite simple—use the interest savings from paying down the provincial government’s $4.1 billion debt to reduce or eliminate education property taxes for all property owners. The Chamber believes that tying the education tax to property made sense 100 years ago, when owning property was a good way to assess a citizen’s ability to pay. But, property value is

112

| Autumn 2010

In addition to saving the average homeowner roughly $1,000 a year, it would also help make housing more affordable, especially for low-income earners, and perhaps change Saskatchewan's image as a high-property-tax jurisdiction. “It could have a huge impact on everyone in the province,” says Hopkins.

eration by our government.” Chamber members doubtless hope to hear more when Premier Wall delivers his keynote luncheon address at the Business to Business Expo on October 21. (To learn more, or to voice your support, go to mypropertytax.ca.)

Hopkins says the beauty of the Big Idea is that it is linked to the economy. "If there's no debt that's been paid off, then nothing happens," he says. It’s an idea the province seems willing to consider. In an open letter to Hopkins, Premier Brad Wall says the government “applauds the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce for this constructive and innovative initiative, and I assure you it will be given due consid-

CEO JOHN HOPKINS, DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A positive future A survey conducted in 2009 showed that the majority of Regina and District Chamber of Commerce members were optimistic about the future, and Hopkins sees that optimism continuing. “One thing we have that others don’t, is that we’re growing,” says Hopkins, “but Regina still has that small-town feel, while having all the amenities.” One thing is certain, there will always be optimism and innovation from a city and a province known for big skies—and big ideas.

SCOTT COLLEGIATE STUDENTS (LEFT TO RIGHT) REBECCA PRATT, NIGEL KAISWATUM AND LACEY PEIGAN PARTICIPATED IN THE FIRST YEAR OF THE ABORIGINAL YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM. .........................................................

Building tomorrow’s workforce While property tax reduction may be the latest big idea from the Chamber, it isn’t the only one. Hopkins says members are considering a number of issues that affect everyone right now and that will continue to be felt in years to come. One critical issue is to ensure the province’s workforce is able to meet the challenges of the future. There are several elements to that, says Hopkins, including encouraging young people to stay and work here, inviting retirees back to the workforce, welcoming immigrants, both from within Canada and abroad, and, most important, engaging Aboriginal people, both as employers and workers. “The economic future of Saskatchewan will depend in large part on how well we engage First Nations and Métis people,” says Hopkins. The demographics of our province are continuing to change. According to Statistics Canada, 141,990 people identified themselves as being Aboriginal in the 2006 Census, 14.88 per cent of the total Saskatchewan population. That’s an increase of almost nine per cent over the 2001 figure. And StatsCan says that number will continue to grow. The Chamber is focusing its efforts on helping prepare the young people who will be the economic forces of the future. It has teamed up with the Right Hon. Paul Martin and the Regina Public School Board to offer the Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneurship Program at Scott Collegiate. Following on the heels of a successful clothing drive to help young Aboriginal students dress for success, the program gives the young people an opportunity to learn about business through participation. Hopkins feels the program has been an overwhelming success. “The students are fully engaged and have come up with some truly unique ideas,” he says. “It’s encouraging to see.” The program is slated to continue for another year before being reviewed.

The Business to Business Expo All of the wonders of today’s technology still don’t beat face-to-face when it comes to building a business, according to the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce. And, it plans to prove it again this year at the annual Business to Business Expo, October 21 at the Conexus Arts Centre. The city’s premiere business trade show puts exhibitors and visitors together in the hopes the melding of the two will create opportunities for both. In addition to giving participants the opportunity to meet like-minded others, the expo also features information sessions and tasty delights at the Savour Saskatchewan food showcase. This year’s program takes a page from speed-dating with a SpeedNetworking Breakfast, and includes sessions on succession planning and Information Technology. The main event this year is the luncheon keynote address by Premier Brad Wall. Trade shows are a way to showcase our economic vitality, says Regina and District Chamber of Commerce CEO John Hopkins. “It’s the business that takes place between businesses,” he says. The show features every kind of business; last year more than 80 booths attracted more than 800 attendees. Hopkins says all the modern technology that is now available, from social networking to web sites and blogs, are useful business tools, but nothing takes the place of meeting someone in person. “People need the one on one,” he says. “Nothing beats to looking someone in the eye and shaking their hand.” And, trade shows help fill that need. This year’s Business to Business Expo is sponsored by the Business Development Bank of Canada. More information is available online at reginachamber.com.

Autumn 2010

| 113

Opportunity for success

Providing customers with the right technological support and solutions BY TRILBY HENDERSON

solid investment in technology is an important part of any business or organization’s strategy for success, yet for many companies facing a new technological challenge, the biggest question is where to begin. Fortunately, the answer is easy: contact MicroAge Regina. Brad Hoffman and Janet Douglas took over ownership of MicroAge in 1997 after spending several years serving as employees for the company, which has operated in the Regina area since 1981. The multi-vendor IT solutions provider has extensive experience and expertise in developing and implementing unique, customized solutions for large and small companies and organizations in both the public and private sectors. Every aspect of the business, from the services it provides to the ways in which it communicates with clients, is designed to ensure each customer is provided with the right technological support and solutions to offer

114

| Autumn 2010

the best opportunity for success. “We take an active interest,” says Douglas. “We really want to make sure that all of our customers get the best experience.”

A full range of possibilities MicroAge’s clients range from small to medium to large organizations in a number of different markets and industries, and their technological needs can be equally diverse. For some, the right solution can be as simple as help selecting and installing new software; for others, it can mean rebuilding their entire network, providing regular, ongoing support and maintenance, and training their staff on how to use it. “When you have one point of contact that can offer the full range of possible solutions, from sales to service to training, then you have an ability for a partner like us to understand the business more effectively,”

Douglas says. MicroAge’s range of services include: planning and designing IT infrastructure; providing cost-effective hardware and software upgrades; testing and integrating new equipment into existing systems; helping clients to manage and secure data; providing maintenance and support throughout the infrastructure’s lifecycle, and everything in between. Douglas says clients call upon MicroAge for everything from fixing a single piece of hardware, such as a printer, to providing long term, in-house IT support. “We have a professional services division where we can actually insert people to work [at the customer’s business] on a short-term basis or even a longer term. Sometimes it’s cheaper to contract rather than hire your own employee,” she says.

MicroAge is also a one-stop shopping location where clients can purchase all of the IT equipment they need, from laptop computers, workstations and printers to storage devices, software and accessories. Hoffman says the company only carries quality products made by brand-name manufacturers—products that have been tried and tested to ensure their compatibility. Although brand-name products may be more costly up front, Hoffman says they provide greater long-term value than many of the generic alternatives. For example, purchasing quality equipment that has been tested prevents both MicroAge and their clients from having to waste time troubleshooting problems caused by unproven equipment. “When we add on another piece of equipment, we already have a pretty good idea of how it’s going to interact,” he says. MicroAge is an authorized, accredited technology partner with many of today’s leading global technology companies, including Microsoft, HP, Toshiba, Lenovo and IBM, and the company makes a concerted effort to stay current with new products and programs so that it can responsibly offer clients the most innovative options at any given time. “The clients that buy into the fact that quality makes for a better use of their time and money over the long term— those are the clients we tend to do best with,” says Hoffman. Still, “the newest and the greatest isn’t necessarily the best alternative,” says Hoffman, noting that the company’s goal is to provide clients with options best suited to their needs and their budget, regardless of where they fit along the technological spectrum. “When we make recommendations, [we make sure] we understand all of the implications across all of the different areas of [the client’s] technology,” he says. “We do our best work when we completely understand all of the aspects of their business, technology-wise.”

Training a major component Training is another significant component of MicroAge’s service repertoire. In fact, the company has its own state-of-the-art training facility, conveniently located in downtown Regina, where many of its corporate clients are situated and where out-of-town customers can access food services and accommodations. Douglas says MicroAge also offers onsite training for clients who have the equipment and fa.......................................... Pictured top right: Back (l-r): Darren Sprout, Professional Services Manager; Brad Hoffman, Director of Services; Al Toews, General Manager; Front (l-r): Darlene MacLeod, Training Centre Manager; Melissa Gerl, Office Manager; Janet Douglas, Director of Operations.

CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

One-stop shopping

CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

A national network MicroAge is one of Canada’s largest IT solutions providers, with more than 40 locations across the country. Although each is individually owned and operated, Hoffman says being connected to a national network enables the company to offer several additional benefits to its clients. For one, MicroAge Regina is able to provide better, more convenient service to large locally based companies who want to include technical support for their subsidiary offices under a single contract. For example, if a Regina client has an issue at its Calgary office, MicroAge Regina can quickly call its Calgary counterpart and dispatch qualified staff from that location to fix the problem. Similarly, MicroAge can assist out-ofprovince companies who may already have a good central IT department, but find that it makes more sense to contract to a qualified local service provider than send out its own staff. Of course, MicroAge Regina’s customers will find that the biggest benefits are delivered by the company’s own personnel, many of whom have served the business for several years. “A good majority of our staff have been with us for 10-plus years. That’s a good thing,” says Douglas. “The longer employees stay with our company, the better they are able to build relationship with our clients,” she says. “It becomes a little bit more than just businessto-business.”

Fun, supportive environment

cilities to provide employee instruction at their place of business, and those who aren’t equipped to offer in-house training can take advantage of MicroAge’s mobile lab. “All we need is an empty room and we can bring our whole classroom into their business, if that works better for them,” she says. MicroAge contracts qualified instructors from across Canada for each of the training courses it offers. Douglas says the company maintains high standards when selecting instructors, looking for those who are not only knowledgeable about the topic at hand but who have experience applying that knowledge in a real-world setting. “They’ve been in the office environment and they know how [the technology] applies to realworld experiences,” says Douglas. “They can relate to the client.” All courses are taught using content and materials developed by industry-recognized

116

| Autumn 2010

professionals. and Douglas says the company is also a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, meaning it has been recognized for achieving an elite level in terms of the work it does. Douglas says the courses offered by MicroAge generally cover two different areas: technical and application. Application training focuses on teaching individuals how to use the various computer program applications applicable to an office setting, such as Microsoft Word, Powerpoint and Excel, or Adobe Photoshop and Dreamweaver. These classes can typically be completed in a single day. The technical courses the company offers run anywhere from three to five days and focus on back-end functions such as a business’s network structure. MicroAge offers technical training to clients throughout the province.

Douglas attributes MicroAge Regina’s strong employee retention to the company’s focus on creating a fun, supportive work environment where staff are encouraged to further their knowledge and skills. “We are a really strong believer in both personal and professional development,” she says. “We feel that if you make a strong individual, then they are going to be a strong employee as well.” Again, all of this adds up to a better experience for the customer and one that will give them the best opportunity to achieve their own success. It’s a goal MicroAge is happy to meet time and again.

Micr oAge Regina 1060 W innipeg St . Sales: 525-0537 Ser vice: 566-4503 Tr aining: 566-4528 www. micr oagesask.co m

BUILDING PORTFOLIOS

Using “Options” to Cash Flow Your Portfolio BY DARRYL J. YASINOWSKI, CFA, CMT Vice President & Portfolio Manager with Mackie Research Capital Corporation and Sessional Lecturer, Finance, for the Paul J Hill School of Business at the University of Regina

n our most recent articles we have focused on managing “risk” within your investment portfolios. Today, our focus will shift towards a way in which you can potentially boost your return by using “options.” As financial markets continue to struggle and interest rates remain low, it can be increasingly difficult for investors to generate satisfactory returns. This problem is further increased if the investment portfolio is nonregistered and subject to taxation. For example, with the average interest rate on a five-year Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of three percent, a $500,000 non-registered investment portfolio would earn $15,000 per year. Assuming a marginal tax rate of 30 percent and an inflation rate of 1.5 percent per year, this portfolio would generate a real after-tax return of only $3,000, or 0.6 percent per year! Using “options” within an overall investment strategy, an investor can potentially increase net after-tax returns and lower risk relative to investing directly in the stock market itself. So how do these instruments work you ask? First you need to understand a few of the basics.

The basics There are two types of options in the financial markets: call options and put options. Both represent a contract between a buyer and seller and both can be created for virtually any security including stocks and bonds. As with most contracts, there is a specified time to expiration of the contract and an outline of the “rights” and “obligations” for both the buyer and the seller of the contract. In the case of call options, the buyer of the option has the “right to buy” and the seller has an “obligation to sell.”

game; someone will win and someone will lose. Put another way, the profit for the buyer is equal to the loss of the seller and vice versa. However, when combined with other strategies it is possible to create a win-win scenario.

Buying vs. selling an option When an investor purchases an option he or she is given the “right.” When an investor sells an option he or she assumes the “obligation.” In the case of call options, the buyer of the option has the right to buy the underlying security (e.g. stocks) at a specified price within a specified time period. The seller of the option is therefore obligated to sell the underlying security (e.g. stocks) at the price specified if called upon to do so.

Example Now that we have some of the basics, let’s turn our attention to an example using call options for generating additional income. Assume an investor owns 1,000 shares of XYZ Bank with a current price of $60.25 per share and a dividend yield of 4.65 percent. Provided the investor owns the shares directly, he/she will continue to receive any dividends declared. To generate additional income the investor can sell a call option with strike price of $64 per share and six months to maturity. In exchange for assuming the “obligation” to sell his/her shares at $64 per share, the investor is paid a fee of $1.40 per share, or 2.32 percent. This fee represents the additional income to the investor.

A “zero-sum” game

In summary, the investor has generated an additional $1.40 per share, or 2.32 percent ($1.40/$60.25) over the next six months in exchange for assuming the obligation to sell his/her shares at $64 in the future. For tax purposes, the additional return is treated as a capital gain, thereby increasing the investor’s after-tax return in taxable accounts.

Although investing itself should never be viewed as a game, options themselves carry a payoff structure which resembles that of a

As an added benefit, if the shares increase to $64 or greater, the investor is obligated to sell and earns a further profit of $3.75 per share

($64 less $60.25) or 6.22 percent ($3.75/$60.25). If the share price remains below $64 the investor keeps the shares and can repeat the option strategy. The strategies and concepts discussed above are complex in nature and should be discussed with a qualified derivatives expert prior to implementation. The comments included in the publication are not intended to be a definitive analysis of tax law. The comments contained herein are general in nature and professional advice regarding an individual’s particular tax position should be obtained in respect of any person’s circumstances. Any rate of return is used for illustration purposes only. Past performance may not be repeated.

Darryl J. Yasinowski is a Vice President & Portfolio Manager with Mackie Research Capital Corporation and a Sessional Lecturer, Finance for the Paul J. Hill School of Business at the University of Regina. The opinions, estimates and projections herein are those of the author and may not reflect that of Mackie Research Capital Corporation (member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund) nor the University of Regina. 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. Questions or comments related to this article can be directed to:

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

Autumn 2010

| 117

Regina Centre Crossing The old Superstore building takes on a new life as the city’s hottest new business location BY MARK CLAXTON

egina’s rapid evolution as a growing business hub reached another milestone in August with the grand opening of the new Regina Centre Crossing. Situated in the former location of Superstore at Albert Street and Dewdney Avenue, the 12-acre development by Century West Development Corporation offers Saskatchewan businesses an enviable combination of leasing affordability and prime location. While several of the centre’s office spaces have already been snapped up, more are available for businesses and organizations looking for a high-visibility, high-traffic home base. “We’ve leased all but about 25,000 of our 135,000 square feet,” says Francis Bast of Century West Development. “By the end of the year, we’ll probably be about 75 or 80 percent occupied.” The centre’s initial tenants include The Phoenix Group advertising agency, Saskatchewan Tourism, AECOM and Walker

118

| Autumn 2010

Projects engineering firms, and the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who have located their training facility there. “We knew there was a big demand for office space in Regina,” Francis Bast says. “And here we have a great location, on a busy street, bordering downtown.” Regina Centre Crossing is located in Regina’s warehouse district, just minutes away from the city’s downtown core. As Regina continues to grow, this is an area of town that will become more and more a part of the action; two major hotels and the proposed new stadium/entertainment complex are all within sight of Regina Centre Crossing.

An eye-catching facelift For people long-acquainted with the sight of the old Superstore, the new development is an eye-catching facelift for the neighbourhood.

“One of the things people notice when they drive by is how much work we’ve put into the exterior,” says Bast. “We’ve probably put about a million dollars worth of landscaping and site work into making it very attractive and more in line with the city’s revitalization plans.” In addition to refurbishing the parking lot and curbing, Century West has upgraded the exterior with warm and friendly seating areas, patios—and even spaces to barbecue. All around the building, wall panels have been replaced by 12-foot windows, giving the structure a much more open appearance and allowing plenty of sunlight in for its occupants. Rick Turchet of Walker Projects, the Century West affiliate that managed the construction of the development, says Regina Centre Crossing’s curbside appeal is one of the features he’s most proud of. “When you’re driving down Dewdney and you see the front of the building and the

High-profile location Pam Klein, president of The Phoenix Group advertising agency, was excited that her organization could grab some of the 1,400 feet of store frontage offered by Regina Centre Crossing. “It’s prime real estate,” Klein says. “There are still a lot of people who need to know what we do. That visible profile is important.” The Phoenix Group began doing business from their new location on June 28, but Klein and her team of management and creative professionals were involved in the design of the new space long before then. “The developers were very accommodating in renovating and making changes,” Klein says. “We were able to create more efficient work spaces, group together areas of the business that would support each other, and develop a common area where we could host clients and staff. “It was really great for our people to be part of the planning.” Rob Mosiondz of AECOM also emphasizes the benefits of RCC’s interior design. “We’ve merged two of our legacy companies together, so it was key that we had everybody in one location,” Mosiondz says. “The open floor plan allowed us an opportunity to get the two groups together. “We were split up on multiple floors in our former site,” Mosiondz recalls. “You get more cohesiveness as a group if everybody’s in one area.” Francis Bast says Phoenix and Regina Centre Crossing’s other tenants have taken full advantage of the structure’s unique features— its 22-foot-high ceilings and mezzanine spaces, for example—while designing their new corporate homes. “We have a very bright, open concept and everyone has really adopted that,” Bast says. “They have their own seating areas, plus there are seating areas throughout the building.

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

downtown skyline behind it—it’s really added to the downtown skyline,” Turchet says. “The building that was there, it was like the ugly duckling. Now it’s a part of the family. It really expands the downtown.” For Bast, the site’s transformation has vindicated the vision shared by him and his partners when they first purchased the property. “Looking at a big old grocery store, a warehouse, some people didn’t see what we saw,” Bast says. “We saw a structure that was very adaptable. But it was tough at the start to get people to have that vision.” “The challenge was to take a 135,000-squarefoot concrete pad with four green walls, and make it into what it is today,” Rick Turchet says.

And with wireless internet available, rather than sitting at your desk to meet someone, you can grab a coffee and go find a place to sit down.”

Openness and interaction Rick Turchet says the openness of the interior has encouraged an openness of communication and interaction among Regina Centre Crossing’s tenants. “It’s becoming its own little community,” Turchet says. “That’s what I like the most about it. You get to meet with people from all the other companies and find out what’s going on in their worlds.” That sense of community will be helped along still further when The Subway Cafe moves in later this fall, providing employees, clients and the public a place to gather over a meal or a latte. The Subway Cafe is a new concept being launched by the Subway chain, with a full assortment of coffees and pastries in addition to the regular Subway sandwich menu. With an upscale design and product line, the cafe will provide a pleasant meeting-and-eating place for tenants and their clients. It will also be the first of its kind in Canada. “Subway is only opening 20 locations in the U.S., and we really fought to get this location opened up in Canada,” says Scott Love, who will own and operate The Subway Cafe with his business partner Robert Priebe. “We’re a pilot project, so we’re going to make it the best we can be.” Love says Regina Centre Crossing is the perfect location for his new enterprise. “That corner has the number-one traffic count in the city of Regina,” he says. “And everybody is aware of ‘the old Superstore,’ that’s how they talk about it. It’s a really good landmark.”

ple coming to our site that perhaps never would have found themselves in Tourism Saskatchewan’s location before,” she says, adding that members of the public are welcome to pay a visit and area organizations are welcome to make use of the boardroom. Commitment to excellence was also on the minds of the Saskatchewan Roughriders executive when they relocated their players’ training facility to Regina Centre Crossing. Conveniently located close to Mosaic Stadium and the football club’s business office, the facility features state-of-the-art equipment and a wireless-equipped lounge in which the players can relax. “We’ve had several players remark already that this facility is second-to-none,” says Steve Mazurak, the club’s vice-president of

Dr. Lynda Haverstock, President and CEO of Tourism Saskatchewan, also enthuses about Regina Centre Crossing’s strategic location. “It’s absolutely perfect for us,” Dr. Haverstock says. “The visibility is terrific. To have the word ‘tourism’ hitting the eyes of every person who drives along Albert Street... “The partners who developed this site were committed to doing something superlative, to being the best. That’s what we want, as well.” Dr. Haverstock says Tourism Saskatchewan’s new home is not just a work place but “a place to imagine,” as well, brightened by ample natural light and the work of many Saskatchewan artists on its walls. “One of the things we are imagining is peo-

120

| Autumn 2010

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

“Absolutely perfect”

marketing and sales. “We’re very, very happy with the space.” The next time you’re in the neighbourhood of Albert and Dewdney, the growing business community at Regina Centre Crossing invites you to stop in for a visit. You’ll like what they’ve done with the place!

Helping people heal At the most difficult time in life, these caring professionals help grieving families cope BY FLR STAFF

he loss of a loved one is one of the most difficult challenges we face in life. The grief and confusion that accompanies the tragedy is often exacerbated by the challenges of dealing with the funeral. Just at the moment when we are most emotionally vulnerable, we are handed dozens of unfamiliar and unpleasant details to be looked after in a relatively short time. At Regina Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens Cemetery, the staff understand perfectly the trials faced by everyone in these end-of-alife straits: and they have the knowledge, skill and sensitivity to ease the burden on those left behind, while helping them to both mourn the loss and celebrate the life of the departed. “It’s how you choose to treat people,” says Jeff Weafer, manager of Regina Funeral Home. He and his counterpart at Regina Memorial Gardens, Beverley Kaytor, are committed to treating people with respect, and helping them cope with everything that accompanies the death of a loved one. Because the Regina Funeral Home is located right on the grounds of Regina Memorial Gardens, some of the complexities of the tasks at hand can be simplified. “We can do

everything,” says Jeff. In addition to the funeral home, there is an on-site crematorium, columbaria and mausoleum, and facilities suitable for hosting the after-funeral reception.

Unique services for unique lives One area where the Regina Funeral Home has built a stellar reputation is in the planning of funeral services. “We’ve developed a reputation for handling every level of our community, from folks who are on social assistance and wouldn’t be able to pay for their own funeral, right through to the upper echelon of the community,” Jeff says. “We create unique services that reflect the unique lives we’ve all led. Not every home offers that. “We try to meet families where they’re at and create a unique experience that celebrates and reflects on the life that’s lived, but also mourns the loss,” he continues. Regina Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens Cemetery believes that, at such a difficult time, religious, cultural, ethnic and family

traditions and considerations must be understood and respected. The 54 staff members do whatever is needed to address diverse needs, cultures, beliefs and traditions. They will also handle any special or unique arrangements you may want to make, from live music or a multi-media presentation to a casual coffee reception Again, it’s all about respecting a family’s wishes, and helping it through a time of need. “We try to create a setting that helps people heal,” Jeff says.

Peace and beauty That healing process is aided by the beautiful location. For more than 40 years, Regina Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens Cemetery has been known for its beautiful park-like setting, including ponds and local wildlife. Located on 66 acres just east of Regina, the site is dotted with mature trees, benches and flower gardens, creating a warm and relaxing atmosphere for friends and families to gather and reminisce. You can even have a memorial tree planted in memory of your loved one, or have a bench erected in his or her name.

Autumn 2010

| 121

Pre-planning saves money and stress Arranging in advance, he notes, saves money and stress for loved ones, ensures your wishes will be carried out, and provides peace of mind. As well, paying in advance helps hedge against rising costs due to inflation. You can rest assured your money is safe, too. Legislation requires funeral and cemetery companies to put advance payments into a trust account. The cash, held by financial institutions that have Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation depositors’ insurance, can only be taken out of trust to pay for the delivery of the prearranged product or service. You can cancel the prearrangement or transfer it to another funeral home at any time and get everything back except for a modest administration fee. Because it is a member of the Arbor Memorial Services group of companies, pre-planning through Regina Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens Cemetery also ensures that, if you move, your arrangements will move with you. Alternatively, if you have loved ones who are interred elsewhere, among the many other services Regina Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens Cemetery offers is a special Personal Tributes program to help remember loved ones buried elsewhere. Trees of Remembrance, memorial benches, sundials, statues, etc., can be purchased and dedicated to the memory of the loved one, wherever they rest. Regina Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens Cemetery has already served the people of Regina and area for four decades. Jeff Weafer is confident it will continue to do so, helping people heal, treating them with respect, for many years to come. Regina Fu neral Home & Memorial Gardens Cemeter y 789-8850 www.r egina-memorial.ca

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

Throughout the year, special services are offered for those who wish to come and spend time remembering their loved one. For example, there are services on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and All Saints’ Day. At Christmas, there is a special candlelight service. The complete list of special services can be found on the website, www.regina-memorial.ca, and they’re open to everyone, whether you have a loved one interred in Regina Memorial Gardens or not. “We also have a bereavement service, called Arbor Care or After Care Assistance,” Jeff says, led by Mary Sutton. “If we have a family in particular difficult circumstances, she will meet with the family, walk through the process of making the arrangements, and follow up on an individual basis or in a group session. There is also a support group that meets on a regular basis.” There’s no additional cost, Jeff notes. “It’s just part of the service we provide.” That service is one of the things that sets the Regina Funeral Home apart from other funeral homes and cemeteries in a profession that has become increasingly competitive. Although there are other funeral homes offering funeral and cemetery services, he feels the Regina Funeral Home outshines the competition, offering more, but at a very competitive price. All funeral homes are required by legislation to provide a detailed price list upon request, so it’s easy to compare. And Jeff says that that research into the various alternatives should be carried out well in advance of the actual need arising.

business

The love lawyer

How hiring the right lawyer can make all the difference BY EDWARD WILLETT

ost people would not immediately associate the words “love” and “lawyer” with each

other. But that’s precisely why Pauline Duncan Bonneau, Q.C., barrister, solicitor and collaborative law lawyer, calls herself “the love lawyer.” “I took a Dale Carnegie course,” she recalls. “We were encouraged to think outside the box, and I thought, ‘Lawyers get such a bad rap. We’re always perceived to 124

| Autumn 2010

be difficult or a last resort. People tend to make very demeaning comments about us.’” And yet, she says, “There are a lot of well-intended lawyers who have skills to help people in ways you can’t even imagine. I wondered, ‘Can we refashion this?’” And so she coined the term “the love lawyer.” “If you love yourself, you have a lot of

courage,” she says. “You know what you want to stand up for and what you believe in.” “I’m trying to attract people who aren’t angry. I want to work with people who are interested in self-empowerment and have the capacity to be objective about themselves, and see there are lots of ways to get results—not just the way they’re locked into.”

Pauline specializes in conflict resolution between spouses, family members, business partners...any two people who find themselves in conflict for any reason. “I’m a closet psychologist,” she says with a chuckle. “I’m very interested in what motivates people. I also became a Buddhist 15 years ago, and the objective of Buddhism is to try and reduce suffering in one’s own life and in the lives of others. The more competent one is at resolving conflict, the happier one’s life is.” To that end, Pauline has made collaborative law a large part of her practice. In collaborative law, the parties to a conflict agree that they will continue to meet, in four-way meetings involving themselves and their respective lawyers, until the conflict is resolved. “The consequence of not being able to settle is that the lawyers get fired and the parties have to retain other lawyers,” Pauline says. “We all sign a contract at the start to that effect, so there is a big incentive to stay with the collaborative law process until there is a settlement.” The contract also spells out other terms: for instance, both sides have to agree to full disclosure and to refrain from discussing the issues outside the meetings. “It’s a process where the parties agree they will talk to each other in a confidential, structured setting. The parties must show respect and restraint. To that end, they are kept safe and can feel more relaxed.” In collaborative law, Pauline says, “The role of the lawyers is to come up with solutions, brainstorm and coach the clients into having better skills in how to talk to each other.” Lawyers must take special courses and be certified to practice collaborative law. Estate litigation, disputes over family farm issues and disputes arising from the breakup of a professional practice are just three examples of the types of cases that lend themselves to collaborative law. Pauline recognizes that collaborative law isn’t always the answer. “I do go to court as well,” she says. “With collaborative law both sides have to agree, and sometimes one person will be willing to collaborate and the other won’t. Sometimes you have to force a resolution of the conflict and the only way to do that is to go to court.” Rather to her surprise, Pauline finds she goes to court more now that she practices collaborative law

PHOTOS BY KRIS BRANDHAGEN

Conflict resolution

then she did before. “I go to court more quickly instead of exchanging letters for months with no results. It’s helped me as a professional advising my clients to be a lot clearer about why we’re going to court. It may sound odd, but people can spend a lot less money by going to court than by not going to court. “I always try to get my clients to go through collaborative law, but if we can’t get results that way then going to court at least allows people to get on with their lives and know where they’re at.”

Comfortable new office Pauline’s focus on resolving conflict informed the location and design of her new office on the 15th floor of the Avord Tower at the corner of Victoria Avenue and Hamilton Street. “When my clients come through the door I want them to know that I really care about them and their needs, and I want my office to reflect that.” To that end, Pauline wanted an office that was quiet and in a high-rise, so clients can visit her discreetly. It also has a great view. “I wanted something that when you look out of the windows you see something interesting. It helps people see Autumn 2010

| 125

business their lives work so much better.” Helping her achieve that goal is her assistant, Teri Arnott, whom Pauline praises as “enthusiastic, warm and helpful.” “I’ve never had such an excellent assistant. She allows me to offer clients higher-caliber service because she’s so great at taking care of their concerns. I’ve only heard positive comments from clients.”

Practicing law for 30 years

they can have a different perspective on their problems,” Pauline says. “And it’s close to the courthouse, which is handy.” Pauline decorated the office herself, in colours that reflect both spring and fall, with apple-green walls and rust accents. “I wanted it to be bright, not dark.” Instead of wasting space on a reception area, “I have a living room for my clients which we call the client lounge. I try to make my clients feel at home.” That’s important, she says, because “my first motivation with clients is to reduce their fear level, so they don’t feel afraid. My personal belief is that when people are relaxed, 126

| Autumn 2010

Pauline has been practicing law for 30 years (“Although I don’t look it,” she jokes). She grew up in Regina, attended law school in Saskatoon, and after articling in Weyburn, returned to Regina. She’s married to Marc Bonneau, an economist and director with Agriculture Canada. It’s a second marriage for both of them. “I’ve worked hard to make this a very successful marriage,” she says. “I think that as a result of being divorced and being married a second time I have some insight into what my clients go through. I try not to project, but it’s given me a greater appreciation for what they face, and just how hard a spot it is to be in.” Pauline and Marc are members of the Wascana Golf and Country Club, a place where they like to play golf and interact with interesting people from Regina. She says they like the “nine and dine” ritual, where they play nine holes after work and then have dinner at the club. It’s a great way to get some exercise and reduce stress. Pauline has one son by her first marriage, Greg, 26, a jazz guitarist in Boston. He received a scholarship to attend the New England Conservatory in Boston, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in jazz performance. He recently competed in the Montreaux Jazz Festival’s Gibson Guitar Competition, placing fourth. “He’s teaching, playing freelance, doing a lot of recording with other artists,” Pauline says. (Pauline herself has a degree in classical piano from the Toronto Conservatory of Music.) Outside of practicing law, Pauline does a

business

lot of public speaking. “I’ve given hundreds of speeches on legal topics and motivational topics,” she notes. In 1992 she was awarded a Federal Queen’s Counsel in recognition of her contribution to the law and the community. Unlike a provincial Queen’s Counsel, the federal designation, only awarded at special times in the country’s history, allows her to use the Q.C. designation in any province. “I was very honored to get that recognition so early in my career,” she says. Looking forward, Pauline is taking great strides to grow her collaborative law practice. It has already expanded to the point where she is looking to hire a sec-

ond assistant to assist her in providing help to her clients. Pauline has also joined the Association of Regina Realtors so she can provide more valuable assistance to people who are buying and selling homes. Because, ultimately, helping clients is what Pauline’s practice is all about. “Conflict is inevitable in life,” she says, and so, “sometimes you need the help of someone who is good at resolving conflict. People think hiring a lawyer is the worst thing that could happen to them, but it might turn out to be one of the best! So don’t prejudge it. Keep your mind open, and look for someone with whom you can work—someone who

has fresh ideas. I think that with my 30 years of experience, working with literally thousands of clients in conflict, I have a lot of creative solutions.” She smiles. “Helping people resolve conflict. What could be more important than that?”

Duncan Bonneau Law 1 580 Vict oria Avenue, Regina, SK Phone: 52 5-85 00 www.thelovelawyer.com

Autumn 2010

| 127

Expert Advice: Homes

Personal Financial Modeling Raymond Riel Senior Advisor, Lifestyle By Design 2363 McIntyre St. | 757-6999 rriel@lifestylebydesign.ca

www.lifestylebydesign.ca

irtually all of my prospective clients are referrals, referred to me by their business colleagues, friends, family or accountants. When I asked this couple how they had heard of my services I expected to hear that their accounting professional had referred them. I was surprised when they said, “our doctor referred us to you.” She broke into tears only 20 minutes into our first conversation. A new record, I thought to myself. Apologizing, she said she cried easily, her husband said “she worries too much.” Her concern was that the business she and her husband had founded 40 years ago, that they had nurtured, sacrificed for, loved and enjoyed, was, according to his doctor, also killing him. He said his plan was to retire in five years, but to do so, he felt he would need to continue working, be even more productive, accumulate more savings and perhaps invest a bit more aggressively. since taxes would strip a significant portion of the value of their business upon its disposition. He said his investment advisor had concurred, that based upon “industry rules of thumb.” another five years of savings would provide them with the financial security in retirement they were hoping for.

but she was not “a fan,” since it would introduce a layer of complexity and unpredictable expense later in retirement, and that it might be better to simply “bite the (tax) bullet.” As far as investing was concerned, the accountant indicated that this was outside of her professional scope and compliance regime, “but she did seem to imply we might be okay just the way we were.” So three professional advisors each had a specific view on how to address the same situation. “You see,” the prospective client explained, “this uncertainty is causing us confusion, and adding to the stress that we are both under. Can you help us put all of this together and arrive at a conclusion?” I explained that my services were on an advice-only basis, that I did not sell financial products or accept commissions, and that the financial modeling technology we employ is proprietary. I provided them with a sample of our work, ensured they understood the reporting, and confirmed it would also withstand the scrutiny of their accountant and other advisors. I asked them to review our en-

gagement letter, our privacy disclosure, and an outline of our process and fees. I said that if they proceeded, I would require authorization to communicate with their accountant and investment, insurance and legal advisors about any relevant technical details concerning their case. I asked them to take the material home, reflect on it, ask any questions via email or phone, and if it met with their satisfaction, bring the documentation back with them along with the technical data I needed to begin our financial modeling process. A week later, they were back with the material, and engaged in our process. See the next issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina... and follow this case to its surprising conclusion. Raymond is the senior advisor with Lifestyle by Design. He has18 years of industry experience, and holds designations as a Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Life Underwriter, Registered Health Underwriter, Professional Retirement Planner and a Certified Executive Coach (Royal Roads University).

Then he said, “We looked for more advice,” and that his insurance advisor indicated the tax liability could be addressed with a sophisticated insurance strategy that would also provide retirement income. But, because of a change in health, the premiums would be expensive. Would the benefits outweigh the costs? His insurance advisor thought so. When they discussed the investment and insurance strategy with their accountant, their accountant admitted that conceptually the insurance strategy might work, 128

| Autumn 2010

Autumn 2010

| 128

Moving forward From humble beginnings, Jay’s has grown to an industry leader... and community pillar BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK

ven as a youngster, Dennis Doehl, founder, owner and CEO of Jay’s Group of Companies, had a drive and determination that kept pushing him to work harder and to do better for himself. He saw possibilities where others couldn’t see them, and moved in on those opportunities, whether it was working his own trap line, doing the neighbours’ chores or pumping water and selling it for 10 cents a pail. Some would describe Doehl, always willing to evaluate the risks and take the bull by the horns, as fearless when it comes to business. Others would call him the epitome of today’s entrepreneur. “I quit school at 15 because I was anxious to get out there and get to work,” says Doehl, “although my Mom really wanted me to finish school. Back then, it was different from today. You didn’t

need to complete school to make your way.” However, his mother finally relented. So with his parent’s blessing, Doehl quit school and went to work shovelling grain for a local farmer. By the age of 22, Doehl was in the hotel business with his father in the town of Bulyea, just south of Strasbourg. But with the long hours needed to successfully run a hotel, Doehl decided this wasn’t the life he wanted for himself and his new family. He had heard the owner of Jay’s Transport was looking to sell and so, armed with a business plan written out on a paper napkin, Doehl visited the Earl Grey Credit Union to talk about a loan. “I was approved on the basis that my Dad was a good guy,” recalls Doehl. “Of course,” he says, smiling, “those were

also the days when a deal was sealed with a handshake.” With two employees and three trucks, Doehl began hauling freight between Regina and Watrous. According to Doehl, the early years were simpler times. His wife, Arlene, worked as office manager, bookkeeper and everything in between. The office was the kitchen table; there was no calculator, no typewriter and no photocopier. This was the beginning of what is known today as Jay’s Group of Companies, with more than 400 employees and 600 pieces of equipment. Growth did not come easily over the years; it took plenty of hard work and a strong commitment to service. “We are grassroots people and we take a lot of pride in what we do,” says Doehl. Dedication to service Autumn 2010

| 129

The company motto at Jay’s has always been, “Do whatever it takes.” A strong example of this motto in action is described in a story Doehl shares about a customer who needed three boxes delivered from Regina to Saskatoon by the following day. Doehl assured the customer it could be done. As it turned out, the only shipment going to Saskatoon that day was the three boxes. Without missing a beat, Doehl put the boxes on the bus and a Jay’s employee in Saskatoon picked them up and delivered them for the customer as promised and on time.

Moving division

Pictured above: Dennis Doehl, founder, owner and CEO of Jay’s Group of Companies

130

| Autumn 2010

It was in the 1960s that Jay’s first began household moving. At first the moves were local, but eventually the team began to move customers provincially. According to Milton Letkeman, General Manager, Moving Division, Jay’s management and staff believe quality is an attitude. “Every move is unique, and we tailor our services to meet each customer’s needs. We offer a menu of services that our customers can pick and choose from: packing, unpacking, storage at either end of the move, packing materials, cleaning services...whatever is required,” states Letkeman. Jay’s Moving is constantly training to acquire the best and most efficient moving practices. This continuous training also allows the company to stay on top of regulations and documentation for longdistance, cross-border and overseas moves, as well as specialized corporate and government moves. “Some of the things we move are expensive, and other things have enormous sentimental value. It’s important that we treat our customers’ goods just as we would treat our own,” says Letkeman. “But at the end of the day, we move people, not just things. Relocation, whether it’s across the city or across the country, is a stressful time for people. We want to provide the kind of service that makes it as painless as possible.” Letkeman also states that if there is a shortcoming in their service, Jay’s Moving will make every effort to find a solution to the problem. “We take great pride in our approachability and our willingness to listen to find out what we need to do in a particular situation, and what we need to do to ensure we can prevent the problem from

occurring in the future,” Letkeman says. He adds that a follow-up questionnaire is sent out for all moves. The questionnaire helps to quickly identify and rectify any concerns the clients may have—an indispensable tool allowing Jay’s staff to learn continuously so they can improve or add services as needed. That strategy appears to be working well, according to clients like Terrie Dunand, RE/MAX Crown Real Estate Ltd., who states, “I have moved several times and I always trust Jay’s to deliver my precious things. They packed and moved my Mom from our family home, and all the crews were so kind and understanding at this difficult time in her life. As a real estate agent, I’m always looking for reliable, professional companies I can refer my clients to. So, when my clients ask about moving companies there is only one, that’s Jay’s. I know the crews are hardworking professionals I can trust.” Another strong affiliation Jay’s Moving has had over the years is with Information Services Corp. (ISC), whom Jay’s has been serving for approximately 10 years. Duane Tomporowski, Manager of Facilities, Risk and Security, describes the corporate moving projects Jay’s has completed for them, which include everything from small everyday moves to major moving projects. “They’ve been a solid partner for us,” comments Tomporowski. He says he would not hesitate to recommend Jay’s Moving to anyone for corporate moves. “Jay’s Moving is always available to consult with the customer and provide their expertise and input when planning a large move,” says Tomporowski. “They are very professional.”

Atlas Van Lines As an agent for Atlas Van Lines since 1970, Jay’s Moving and Storage is constantly training and sharing information

about the best practices needed to stay on top of the industry. One of the programs that Atlas and Jay’s participate in together is called “Quality in Motion,” which is one of the most innovative training programs in the moving industry today. Recently, President and COO Terry Simonson received a letter of gratitude from Fred Haladay, Vice-President, Quality Enhancement and Corporate Services, of Atlas Van Lines Canada. In the letter, Haladay expresses his sincere appreciation for Jay’s commitment to the Quality in Motion program. Haladay also expresses his gratitude for the high level of customer service provided by Jay’s, stating, “Jay’s is committed to their customers, as demonstrated by consistently higher-than-average customer satisfaction ratings and numerous quality awards.” Haladay generously adds that if it weren’t for the dedication and hard work of everyone at Jay’s, Atlas would not have been as successful as it is today. It is clear to see that Atlas and Jay’s will continue to experience a very beneficial working relationship for some time to come.

Freight allies The loyalty doesn’t stop on the moving side of the company. Over the years, Jay’s Transport has developed many strong working relationships with other carriers. YRC-Reimer Saskatchewan has been dealing with Jay’s for about 40 years. Edd Tabashniuk, Regina Service Centre Manager, can’t say enough good things about the management and staff. “We use Jay’s Transport because they are reliable and very easy to work with. They know how to be an extension of our business. As Jay’s has grown over the years, they have not sacrificed service or quality,” states Tabashniuk. He refers to the importance of having quality people working in the business, and that the professional attitude of Jay’s Autumn 2010

| 131

staff has made it a top-notch company. “Many things make up a successful company, with the most important being its investment in people, and Jay’s has a very strong group of people working for them.” Tabashniuk adds, “As a word of praise for their ownership and management, Jay’s is constantly leading change in our province.” A leader in the industry Accountability, integrity and professionalism are all top priorities for Doehl and his team at Jay’s. It is because these are a priority that Doehl has served on many boards in the transportation industry over the past four and a half decades. These boards include the Saskatchewan Trucking Association, the Saskatchewan 132

| Autumn 2010

Trucking Safety Council, the Canadian Tariff Bureau, the Canadian Association of Movers and Atlas Van Lines Canada. As a past member of these boards, Doehl has helped to mould the transportation industry in Western Canada into the professional industry it is today. As recognition for his leadership role, Doehl received the prestigious Trailmobile Service Industry Award in 1999. In 2004, Doehl was also inducted into the Saskatchewan Transportation Hall of Fame—a true honour for all of his outstanding achievements.

Community involvement Jay’s success has made it possible to give

back to the community in many ways. In addition to supporting numerous local community organizations, Jay’s is a major sponsor of Kinsmen Telemiracle, the MS Society and Breast Cancer Action Saskatchewan. For the past 19 years, Jay’s has hosted its Annual Golf Classic for Telemiracle. This event has grown dramatically over the years and has raised more than $658,000. In 2006, Jay’s unveiled the first of two Telemiracle trailers, which proudly bear the “Believe in Miracles” logo. Together with the Kinsmen Telemiracle Foundation and others, Jay’s welcomes the opportunity to help improve the quality of life and the independence for hundreds of people with special needs every year. “Jay's support for Kinsmen Telemiracle is never passive. They are completely involved. We know there is a lot of focus on the golf tournament for the incredible fundraising, but they are with us year round. Our motto is ‘Helping People Every Day.’ Jay’s is part of that. If we have to get a scooter or piece of special needs equipment to someone in Saskatchewan, they deliver it for us at no charge. The commitment most people see only at the golf tournament, we see daily,” states Joan Steckhan, Executive Director, Kinsmen Foundation. In 2009, the Breast Cancer Action Saskatchewan (BCAS) trailer was unveiled to create awareness of this disease. The trailer travels the province and survivors are encouraged to sign their names on it as a testament of courage

and survival. “Breast Cancer Action Saskatchewan is pleased to partner with Jay’s Moving in the creation of the ‘Survivor Semi.’ The semi has represented our organization and Jay’s Moving in such a positive manner. It gives the opportunity for survivors, family and friends to sign their name to recognize the people still fighting, the people who have survived and to remember all of the wonderful people that have passed away from cancer. The response from the community has been fantastic. Each and every time the semi arrives at an event, people are lined up to sign it,” comments Tia Lutz, Executive Director of BCAS. Since 1993, Jay’s, along with other Atlas Agents across Canada, has supported the MS Bike Tour raising funds for the MS Society of Canada. Locally, Jay’s participates in the MS Walk and the MS Mother’s Day Carnation Campaign. The Jay’s MS Society trailer serves to raise awareness as it travels around Saskatchewan, promoting the MS Society and their activities. According to

Perry Kappel, Communications Manager for the Regina Chapter, Jay’s also provides refrigeration trucks for the MS Walk, the MS Bike Tour and the Carnation Campaign. Kappel explains that Jay’s involvement helps to lower costs, which in turn means more money is able to go to research and other necessary programs. “They have become our extended family,” says Kappel. “As a corporate partner, their dedication is truly outstanding.”

Perhaps it is this zealousness that has driven Jay’s Group of Companies from a business with $10,000 in annual sales in the first year of operation to more than $30 million in sales today. On second thought, it could be the dedication to service and to community...or maybe it’s the hard work and entrepreneur spirit...or maybe it’s everything combined! One thing is certain: Jay’s is going to be around for a long, long time.

Moving forward With a strong senior management team at his side consisting of Terry Simonson, Doreen Pankewich, Manager of Finance and Administration, and Milton Letkeman, Doehl is confident about taking Jay’s into the next decade, knowing the company’s integrity and professional attitude will remain intact. “We’re continually growing and expanding,” says Doehl.

Autumn 2010

| 133

Dreams on wheels

High-end car collector car auction draws Saskatchewan snowbirds in Arizona BY LEE PARENT

s Saskatchewan snowbirds head to Arizona this winter, many of them will attend the Barrett Jackson Car Collector Auction in Scottsdale, scheduled for January 17 to 23. Hailed as “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auction™,” it’s a unique happening and if you’ve never been, you really should put it on your to-do list—whether you’re a car nut or not. When my husband, Shayne, first suggested taking in an auction at West World in Scottsdale, I was ambivalent; once there, I adored the fanfare, the peoplewatching, the food, and, of course, the vehicles to admire and, in some cases, to envy. The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company was established in 1971; headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., the company held an annual auction that became the Mecca of automotive hobbyists looking to buy or sell collectible cars. 134

| Autumn 2010

TV exposure raises profile Unless you are a serious car aficionado, you might never have heard of the Barrett Jackson Collector Car Auction until just a few years ago. Then, in 2006, the event was viewed on the Speed Channel for 33 hours; here was reality television at its best, and from a little-known happening, the annual auction has grown to encompass a well-publicized week of festivity and fanfare. The dollar figures are phenomenal. Recent Scottsdale auctions generated sales totals of $88 million in 2008, $63 million in 2009 and more than $68 million in 2010. Company organizers have created a unique, exciting environment reflected by strong public participation. Attendance for the three events in the 20082010 seasons exceeded well over 400,000. Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing

products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world, including insurance for collectible vehicles, licensed clothing and a bidder liaison service via telephone and Internet. Barrett Jackson Auctions have been introduced in Palm Beach, Fla.; in Las Vegas, at the spectacular Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino; and in Orange County, Calif. Each venue is different, and each auction conveys its own unique atmosphere.

Colourful and electrifying In January 2010, 40 hours of the Scottsdale sale were broadcast; the televised coverage is colourful and electrifying. Featured commentators are knowledgeable, appealing and humorous. The broadcast conveys much of the carnival atmosphere, but even a big screen in

high-def can’t quite replicate the mood of being there in person. As CEO Craig Jackson explains, “People love the auction because, instead of watching others play on the field at a sporting event, they can actually be part of the action here.” Regina businessman Rick Ponto placed a winning bid on a car at Barrett Jackson a couple of years ago and hopes to attend the Vegas event in September. He agrees that the atmosphere is exhilarating. “It was always a dream to bid on a car there,” he declared. “The cars, the people ... it’s all very exciting.” Besides the cars, trucks, motorcycles and planes that are displayed and sold, shopping opportunities abound throughout the site. Hundreds of vendors offer luxury goods from patio furniture to jewellery, clothing to art, collectibles to video systems...and car parts and accessories, of course. Enormous coaches queue up along one road, with price tags in the hundreds of thousands of dollars; realtors and property developers display their commodities, too. Shayne played a video racing game worth $17,000, strapped into a chair in front of a panoramic screen, focused on the track while the chair in motion gave him all the sensations of a real race car. I attended fashion shows and cosmetics demonstrations and won a travel kit for the trunk of my car by spinning a “roulette” wheel. 135

| Autumn 2010

Heaven for foodies At any great automotive event, there’s delicious food, and these auctions are no exception. Interspersed with vendors booths are kiosks reminiscent of a fair: tunnel cones, fajitas, Polynesian noodles, fish and chips, mini donuts, slushies, smokies on a bun...the list goes on and on. Add beer on tap, and cocktail bars indoors and out, and it’s heaven for foodies. Being there in January, sitting at a picnic table enjoying a taste treat, the benefit of fresh air and sunshine is especially appreciated by the Saskatchewan folks who know just what kind of weather they’re missing at home. Then there’s the celebrity factor; an autograph hound like myself can add to her collection, or at least spot such legends of the automotive world as Carroll Shelby, Tony Stewart, Chip Foose and Darryl Gwynn. Sports stars often attend the event too, so Reggie Jackson or Shaquille O’Neal might appear onstage. Jay Leno frequents the auction, and of course his collection is famous, but so too is his approachability, and that’s a unique quality of the Barrett Jackson mystique. Famous or not, all are united by their love of the vehicles, the process and the spectacle. Speaking of celebrities, their legendary vehicles are often displayed or sold here. In 2009, rock-and-roll icon Eddie Van Halen auctioned a pair of Chevrolet classics from his personal collection. The

136

| Autumn 2010

1956 Chevy 210 and 1956 Chevy Nomad were each sold with matching, one-of-a-kind EVH Brand “Wolfgang” guitars, and a pair of red, white and black EIt VH striped sneakers. Additional celebrity cars slated for that sale included a 1994 Porsche 911 Speedster formerly owned by Jerry Seinfeld and assorted vehicles from the personal collection of country music star Alan Jackson. “Documented celebrity cars always fetch a great deal of attention,” explains Craig Jackson.

Nothing like it All in all, there’s just nothing like this event. Attendance has been known to top 280,000 over five days, even in these challenging economic times. I recall the 2008 Scottsdale event most vividly; that sale featured more than1,100 collector vehicles. As members of the Corvette Club of the Dakotas, we were VIP guests of Dave Ressler, the club sponsor, and from his skybox, I watched in awe as some amazing items crossed the stage before me. Ressler has bought and sold literally millions of dollars worth of vehicles at Barrett Jackson events, including a million-dollar Corvette that was driven onstage by Jay Leno. Proceeds from that sale benefited the United Way; several such charities are supported at the auction every year.

On the bidding floor below the sky boxes sit bidders from a diverse range of occupations and economic circumstances. Some might be recreating a dream of their youth, bidding on the hot car they had—or wished they had!—in high school. Others are spending hundreds of thousands to add unique vehicles to a museum collection, or a private one. Not just anyone walks in and sits on the bidding floor; one must pay a bidder’s fee, provide correct identification and a recent photo, and provide proof of driver’s insurance. As for financial arrangements, bidders must deposit a certain amount of funds or provide letters of credit before the opening of the auction. Even consignors pay the piper; the consignor is responsible for an entry fee as well as a seller’s commission of eight percent of the hammer price. The entry fee is determined by day and time of your lot entry and includes tent space. Outside, those five huge tents beckoned, full of cars to be sold, all spread out under a gorgeous blue sky; we spent a couple of hours simply walking and admiring and taking some of the photos you see here. And after reviewing my album to choose these pictures, I’m looking forward to the auction in Las Vegas in September and anticipating the excitement that will engender. We might not consign or bid on anything, but my celebrity-spotting opportunities should be limitless!

PHOTOS BY LINELL BRILZ PHOTOGRAPHER, INSPIRATION PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.INSPIRATIONBYLINELL.COM

charity events on behalf of sasksportbike.com, establishing a tradition of community service for the association, which now represents more than 700 people with various sport bikes.

A tradition of service The Sask Sport Bike Association’s annual Charity Calendar raises funds for breast-cancer research BY ROBIN MARKEL

he Sask Sport Bike Association (SSBA), the official sport bike association for Saskatchewan sport bikes and sport riders, has a history of community service, and nothing typifies that better than the SSBA Charity Calendar, which annually raises funds for breast-cancer screening research. According to the SSBA website (www.sasksportbike.com), Josh Dirksen founded the group following his search for an online place where Saskatchewan sport motorcyclists could “gather to share knowledge, experiences, and generally meet new riders in the motorcycling community.” When he failed to find such a place, Dirksen created one. One-year memberships in the SSBA are very affordable, at only $20 to $55, and allow users of the site to access the online forum, links, gallery, safety tips and many other resources. Soon after Dirksen began the site, a growing number of members began participating in local

140

| Autumn 2010

One of the SSBA’s most noteworthy charity events has been the creation of the SSBA Charity Calendar. According to Cody Jordison of the SSBA, the fundraiser had its start when one member approached the association in 2008 with the idea of a calendar. Another member suggested the proceeds be put toward breast cancer screening. The association’s “largest undertaking in its history,” the calendar is created using 100percent local talent. In addition to work by local photographers and other donations, the calendar features mainly local women as well as local bikes. Models apply in April by submitting photographs and biographies. Members of the site vote on their favourites, and 12 winners are announced in September. Of the 12 models to be featured in the 2011 SSBA Charity Calendar, two are from the Regina area and two are from Saskatoon. Some of the models have been involved with the calendar in previous years, and have returned for the experience. Some are participating out of love for volunteering for a good cause. Some of the models have their own bikes, and became models through their involvement with the SSBA. For some, the inspiration to get involved comes from a loved one’s battle with breast cancer. “I have family that have lost the battle to breast cancer, family currently undergoing treatment, and my mom is a cancer survivor,” notes one calendar model. Previous years have seen approximately $15,000 in funds raised. This year’s goal is an ambitious $20,000. The SSBA 2011 printonly Charity Calendar, which features a Warrior/Survivor theme, was released September 18. For photos and bios of this year’s models and to order a copy of the calendar, go to www.ssbacalendar.com.

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

A truck lover’s dream Accessories to cover the needs of everyone, from pros to weekend warriors BY RYAN HOLOTA

anada Truck Accessories, located in the Northgate Mall, is a truck lover’s dream. Opened in 2006, Canada Truck Accessories is owned and operated by Scott McIntee and Jason Johannson. With large open doors and a glass front, any truck enthusiast will spot the store from a distance. Racks of decorative front license plates fill one corner of the shop, ensuring that everyone who sees your vehicle will know that you are driving a Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Honda or Toyota. Across the store, custom grilles line another wall, with more hanging from the ceiling. The floor of the store is filled with custom wheels, headlights and more. There is even a complete truck in the center of the store, fully decked out with all of the latest accessories. “The items that you see don’t even represent 10 percent of the products that we carry. There’s just no room to put everything out on display,” says McIntee. “The suppliers that we deal with carry literally anything that you could ever want, need, or imagine for trucks and even some cars.” The accessories in the store cover the needs of everyone, from professional drivers to weekend warriors. Recently, the store has seen a large increase in the number of commercial vehicles that are being accessorized. “Toolboxes have been really big lately. Some contractors come in and get their trucks fully accessorized for work—toolbox, step bars, a little bit of chrome. The trucks look great when they leave, and they are more functional too,” says Johannson. “We don’t advertise that we do contractor vehicles, but our customers tell their friends, and it just spreads.”

Something for everyone Of course, you don’t need to be a contractor to take advantage of the selection. “Tonneau covers are one of the most common items that we sell. We have everything from vinyl covers all the way up to fully retractable covers. They are really useful to the average truck owner because they keep the stuff in your bed from prying eyes. You gain a huge amount of storage space with a cover.” Whether your truck is new or old, Canada Truck Accessories will have the parts you are looking for. Newer trucks make up a large portion of their business, but they carry parts for older and antique vehicles as well. Price is no object either. The store carries products to fit anyone’s budget, from the low end to the high end. It also carries performance parts. Some of the more common are chips, tuners, cold-air intakes and exhaust parts. It also sells everything from high-flow air filters to complete crate engines. Those looking for more handling can get lowering kits, aftermarket suspension pieces and poly mounts and suspension bushings. And Canada Truck Accessories has the 4X4 crowd covered with a wide range of offroad products, such as winches, grille guards, off-road lighting and bull bars. Towing accessories are very popular. Canada Truck Accessories sells hitches by B&W, one of the best names in the business. It carries a full line of receivers, wiring connectors, hitch covers, towing balls and mounts and pins and clips. If you are unsure of exactly what you need, the staff can help you determine the safest and most efficient way to tow your load.

Autumn 2010

| 145

Looking great Those more interested in looking great than going fast will also find a wide variety of parts to choose from. Projectorbeam headlights are becoming more and more popular, as are custom marker lights and tail lights. To make sure that you stay on the right side of the law, all of the lighting products that Canada Truck Accessories sells are DOT-approved for use on public roads. Those truck owners who know what they want but aren’t very handy with tools, or those who just don’t have the time to work on their truck, will also be happy to know that Canada Truck Accessories also installs everything that it sells. Their website, www.canadatruckaccessories.com, helps McIntee and Johannson reach out to truck owners from all across Canada. In the past they have shipped goods as far east as Prince Edward Island, and as far west as Victoria. Of course, they also ship closer to home. One of the services that they proudly offer is drop shipping. Drop shipping allows them to ship parts from the manufacturer directly to your home in Regina or wherever you live. This saves on shipping costs and improves shipping time. When asked what they are most proud of about their business, the answer comes back loud and clear: customer service. McIntee and Johannson take pride in treating every customer like a regular, and go out of their way to make sure that their customers are happy. “It’s really all about treating people the way that we would want to be treated,” says McIntee. Canada Truck Accessories has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for the latest accessory or a gift for the hard-to-buy-for truck lover who thinks he has everything, McIntee and Johannson have you covered. They also offer gift certificates for those who are unsure what to buy and can give advice on the newest and most popular accessories on the market. Canada Truck Accessories In the Northgate Mall, 489 Albert St. N.

www.canadatruckaccessories.com 146

| Autumn 2010

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Forecast: 100% Chance of Traction Presenting the Weather-Master S/T 2 is Cooper's premium studable winter passenger tire designed for drivers looking for excellent traction on snow and ice. The Weather-Master S/T 2 line has extensive size coverage that fits a wide range of automobiles, old and new, foreign and domestic. To find out more visit your local Cooper Tire Dealer today.

Bell Tire Store 775-1244

700 1st Avenue, Regina

Autumn 2010

| 147

Modern technology, old-fashioned values Family-run automotive business combines the latest technology with old-style customer service BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK

or those of us who grew up in rural Saskatchewan, the memories of the small town “Ma-and-Pa” businesses are still fresh in our minds. Like the family farm, the family business was owned and operated with a great deal of care and attention. This was after all, the family’s only means of living, so everything had to run like clockwork. Unlike the family farm, the family business relied heavily on customer service. Happy customers meant repeat business and, moreover, happy customers meant happy friends and neighbours. The family business was a way of life. With the technological advancements that have swept our society, this way of life has changed dramatically. Big Box stores moved in and the small businesses that couldn’t keep up with the new technologies closed and moved on to other things. This is not necessarily a negative thing, just a fact of life. We must continue to grow and change as a society or we will be left behind. However, do we need to leave everything behind us? According to the folks at Cardinal Automotive, located at 828 Dewdney Ave. in Regina, the old-fashioned “customer-first” attitude is the best way to retain current customers and attract new ones. There must be a mountain of truth to this method: Cardinal Automotive has been around since the early 1990s. Previous owners Allan and Debbie Kuntz had decided to retire, but they didn’t want to sell to just anyone. They wanted to sell to someone who would uphold the wholesome 148

| Autumn 2010

image of their life’s work. Gord Carnahan, who has been working in the automotive trade since 1989, was working at another shop, plus helping out at Cardinal Automotive on a part time basis. He was attracted to the individual care and attention that the Kuntzes paid to the every customer. “Their customers were just like family to them,” recalls Carnahan. That philosophy was very much agreeable to Carnahan, so, on April 15, 2010, he took over Cardinal Automotive, with the mentality of keeping the family values that were so strong in the business for almost two decades.

A family operation However, this was not just a one-person decision. Carnahan’s whole family has been involved in helping out with the business in some form. Wife Tracy assists with administrative tasks, and sons Cody (13) and Ethan (8) also help their Dad out over the summer months. Even Carnahan’s Mom, Colleen, helps out at the front of the shop. “It’s a real family operation,” Colleen says with a smile. “We want our customers to feel like they are part of the family, too,” adds Carnahan. Carnahan describes how he and his family decided together to purchase the business. Once that decision was made, Carnahan made the sacrifice of quitting his job and selling his “baby,” a 2001 Corvette, to buy his dream business. “I’ll get another one someday. The business comes first right now,” he says. “We renovated the front of the shop,” Carnahan continues, “and we hope to expand someday, but right now we’re all about service.” That is very evident as one customer walks in to have the brakes serviced on

his car. He is greeted with smiles and friendliness. He comments on the fact that he has been bringing his vehicles to Cardinal since moving to Regina years ago, and adds that he appreciates the friendly atmosphere and reliable service. At that he gives a wave and a smile as he heads to the door, where Carnahan’s

Mom is waiting to drive him to work. When asked what made him choose the automotive trade, Carnahan explains that he started out in construction but his love for cars made him change careers. He goes on to say that he has learned a lot working in various auto

Autumn 2010

| 149

shops over the years and he enjoys putting his knowledge to the test. “I’ve been really lucky,” says Carnahan. “I’ve had the chance to work at some of the best shops in the city.”

Up-to-date technology For Carnahan, his interest in the automotive industry is about more than just making a living, it’s a true passion. He is constantly continuing his training and has already completed a number of aftermarket electronics courses. Determined to be on top of the latest technological advancements in his field, Carnahan spends a lot of his personal time on the computer checking out the latest innovations. “The automotive industry is changing so fast that, unless you keep up to date with technology and training, you’re going to be left behind,” Carnahan says. Carnahan has stocked his shop with the latest in electronic equipment, including the Verus Integrated Diagnostic and Information System from Snap-On Tools. This hand-held scan tool is a multi-tasking device that not only runs diagnostic checks on the vehicles being worked on, but also allows the tradesperson to create customer records, browse online for parts suppliers, access OEM sites and much more. In looking ahead, Carnahan talks about his plans to bring in customizing and high-performance auto parts, top-quality products by Magna Charger, Paxton, Mid America Motorworks and more.

Commitment to community Carnahan also notes that he plans to continue to keep Cardinal Automotive at the top of everyone’s mind when it comes to dedication to the community by supporting local events like the Majestics Car Show. He is also a firm believer in supporting sports programs for youth and will continue to sponsor programs in Regina and White City and surrounding area.

150

| Autumn 2010

With their commitment to family, service and community, the folks at Cardinal Automotive are thrilled to continue on in the footsteps of their predecessors as they look forward to many years of serving Regina and area.

Commitment to service The Mission Statement of Cardinal Automotive nicely describes the dedication of the Carnham family: “Assuring the customer peace of mind by providing excellent automotive repair and equitable prices using up to date technology and equipment.”

We can’t ask for any better than that. For more information about Cardinal Automotive, call Gord and Colleen at 347-0440 and become a member of the family.

Cardinal Automotive 828 Dewdney Ave. 347-0440

It takes a family At this family-run tire shop, it’s all about service BY CARTER HAYDU It’s a family business that’s all about service. “There’s probably half of us here at any given time who are all related,” says Graham’s Tires salesman and front man Graham Pfeifer, stepson of the Regina tire shop’s co-owner, Graham Lloyd.

“That’s just always kind of been what we were going to do.”

Pfeifer says his stepfather created Graham’s Tires in 1985, providing 24-hour on-call service while working on graders, scrapers, loaders and various other heavy-duty construction and mining machines—large industrial equipment.

With a business degree from Calgary, Pfeifer says he has basically done every job there is at Graham’s Tires, from changing tires to driving the service truck, from selling merchandise to balancing the accounts.

“They specialized in the big stuff, but yet the business was extremely small,” Pfeifer says. “It was just Graham and his brother Frank. Just a couple of guys operating out of a truck—no real shop.”

A shared passion

Dedicated to service Maintaining dedication to quality service, Pfeifer says the business didn’t change much until Lloyd expanded into the passenger car and truck tire market in 1998. Today, Graham’s Tires has a large shop at 3010 Albert St. (just north of the steel plant), operating five service trucks and employing 12 staff—several of whom call the boss “family.” “Graham and his brother are partners in it and both own a share,” Pfeifer says. “There’s also myself, my stepbrother (Kevin Lloyd), a brother-in-law (Lance Radke) and Graham’s nephew (Jessie Lloyd)—I guess that’s all the family we have in it right now.” Both Pfeifer and his stepbrother wanted to work in Lloyd’s shop from a young age, as they enjoyed the atmosphere of the family business.

As his stepfather eases into retirement, Pfeifer, 26, is assuming a more “up-front” role with the business, along with 28-yearold Kevin, which Pfeifer says makes sense, considering their shared passion for the job. “You know, it’s just great being in a family business. It’s the only business I ever knew and the only real job I ever had.” As he takes on more of a managerial and sales role with the company, Pfeifer says he does occasionally miss the more “handson” work associated with a tire shop.

Autumn 2010

| 151

However, he says that fortunately, a business such as Graham’s Tires doesn’t let any of its employees avoid doing any physical labour. Pfeifer says he still occasionally has to jump in a service truck, head down to a construction site and change some tires. “It’s a true family business in that we all do a little bit of everything—whatever it takes to get it all done.”

Service across the west Much of what Pfeifer appreciates about Graham’s Tires is the company’s dedication to service. He says staff members routinely drive hundreds of kilometres across western Canada, as far as La Ronge, Fort McMurray and Cranbrook, just to service the tire needs of some heavy-duty equipment. “That’s what we really thrive on here, the service.” If a company requires a tire change on some piece of equipment far away, Pfeifer says a Graham’s Tires service truck would be on the road almost immediately. “There’s a lot of guys closer who can change the tire, but to actually service the customer, well, that’s where we come out ahead.” Although the service trucks are reserved for large industrial vehicle needs, Pfeifer says Graham’s Tires is equally concerned about quickly and reliably servicing passenger car and truck customers. “We treat them all the same.” With great service comes great reputation. and Pfeifer says Graham’s Tires really hasn’t bothered much with advertising over the years. He says satisfied customers seem to just spread the word and Graham’s Tires just gets bigger. “And that’s how the business has grown to today.” Currently, Graham’s Tires has two large bays, each capable of holding about four standard vehicles and a semi-truck with twin trailers. Most days Pfeifer says both bays are almost constantly full. “But we keep the thing flowing,” he says, adding Graham’s Tires doesn’t take appointments, so customers need only drive to the door for service.

152

| Autumn 2010

A move into the aftermarket While large equipment and regular passenger vehicle servicing remains at its core, more recently Pfeifer says the family business is moving into “aftermarket” tire work, putting large tires and rims on “lifted trucks” and other altered vehicles, giving them more traction, better power and a particular esthetic appeal. “That’s been coming on more and more the past couple of years,” Pfeifer says, adding that when Regina-area shops specializing in vehicle enhancements boost a particular car or truck’s size and power, Graham’s Tires will often take on the task of fitting that vehicle with appropriate tires and rims.

Graham’s Tires certainly hopes to expand its business in the realm of tires, but at the same time Pfeifer says the business intends to stay focused specifically on tire services— not expanding into other areas of mechanics. “We do tires and rims. We keep it simple. We keep it to what we know and maintain extremely good customer service.” As well, he says Graham’s Tires maintains its other central attribute: a sense of family. Graham’s Tires 3010 Albert St. 352-8473

Diesel-powered art Making diesel vehicles faster, stronger and better is Denny Jorgensen’s passion BY CARTER HAYDU Some artists paint, while others sculpt, write poetry or compose music. What Denny Jorgensen does is modify vehicles, enabling them to perform stronger, all the while consuming less fuel. “Each enhancement responds differently to the vehicle type,” the young entrepreneur says about his craft. “You get a feel for what works with what vehicle over the years.” For the co-owner of Smoke ’Em Diesel Performance, there is no greater artistic expression than upgrading a diesel truck, allowing it to haul heavy loads on a regular basis, while at the same time reaching higher speeds with greater fuel efficiency than most sports cars. “I think, for me, it’s mostly about the performance we can get out of these 8,000-pound trucks.”

Making engines more efficient Denny and his wife, Leslie, started their Regina-based vehicle-enhancement business in 2007. Leslie, who handles the business end of operations, says Smoke ’Em modifies gas or diesel engines in everything from cars to trucks, farm machinery to construction equipment. “We modify them to work more efficiently,” Leslie says, adding several Smoke ’Em customers simply want vanity upgrades—enabling their cars and trucks to out-perform at mud bogs or while cruising down the street. “So it’s like the hot rods you see out on the street.” According to Leslie, the story behind Smoke ’Em is basically the story of Denny’s entire life. She says her husband became obsessed with vehicle mechanics at a time most children are still

learning to talk. By age two, Denny could be found at the kitchen counter, ripping apart a carburetor—there are pictures to prove it. “That was his toy.” By the time Leslie married Denny, he was a successful mechanic in Regina, who more and more found himself conducting vehicle upgrades on the side after hours, upon request. “That’s when we decided to put up a shop and give it a try,” Leslie says, adding it was she who not only decided the two should open their own business, but also prepared all the paper work, arranged the loan and persuaded Denny. “My husband was nervous, I had to convince him.” At first, it was just the two of them working out of their shop, but as Smoke ’Em’s reputation grew, so did its staff. The business now employs five fulltime workers, upgrading a multitude of vehicles from

Autumn 2010

| 153

across the prairie provinces. “Our shop is a five-bay shop and it’s always full.”

A wide variety of upgrades There’s almost no end to the types of upgrades available at Smoke ’Em—from lift kits to transmission upgrades to powertrain work. Leslie says many vehicles leave her shop looking and sounding completely different from when they arrived. “Some of our trucks have been done really extensively, so it’s really just a passion.” One service that sets Smoke ’Em apart from its competition is its Cummins conversions, which basically consist of putting a Dodge Cummins engine into either a Ford or GMC product. “It’s not common at all and typically is only done in the States,” Leslie says. She added such a conversion is ideal for someone who has invested a lot into a muchloved truck and wants to extend the vehicle’s life with a top-quality Cummins engine, allowing that truck to continue down the road indefinitely. “We’ll just keep building big trucks and keep the community happy.” Smoke ’Em is always willing to diversify and, according to Leslie, if a customer has an idea about upgrading his or her vehicle, Denny and his staff will make it possible— even going beyond the norm. “We’re just now diversifying into big projects.” Still, Leslie says the core of Smoke ’Em customers, about 60 percent, just want to improve fuel mileage and increased hauling and driving ability. One way the business achieves this practical end is taking diesel particulate filters off newer trucks, which Leslie says is highly specialized work requiring a skilled mechanic to “trick” the vehicle’s computer. However, once removed, these trucks typically run extremely well with improved fuel mileage.

Building a family and a business Aside from building high-performance vehicles and a quality reputation, Denny and

154

| Autumn 2010

Leslie are also building a family, recently welcoming the addition of their son, Denny Diesel. “He’s named after his dad,” says Leslie, who is expecting the couple’s second child. She says Smoke ’Em continues to be an important aspect of her growing family, serving everyone from 16-year-old high-school students with their hot-rod trucks to 80year-old farmers looking to improve tractors and sprayer mileage. “This is a family-owned business and that’s how we want to treat you. We keep our rates as low as possible and customer service is most important to us.” For the artist in the family, every day at Smoke ’Em is an opportunity to perfect his craft, turning normal cars and trucks into

“totally off-the-wall” hot rods, or just more efficient for the average person. “I just enjoy building custom stuff for people.” To find Denny’s shop, travel 16 kilometres north on Highway 6 and turn left at the “Smoke ’Em Diesel” sign. Travel another three kilometres to the next sign and turn left. For more information, contact 545-5911. Smoke ’Em Diesel 16 km north on Highway 6 3 km west 545-5911

Not just fancy paint Incredibly tough spray-on coating protects truck beds...and more BY RYAN HOLOTA

ruck beds take a beating. Even if you don’t use the bed of your truck for hauling or moving, the bed is exposed to rain, sunshine, ice, snow and debris. Most truck owners don’t wash them out often or wax the paint, and when they do haul something they don’t use protective covers. In no time at all, the paint is scratched and chipped, and rust begins to form. When owners do use their truck beds frequently, the scenario is even worse. Before long, the bed is dented, rusted, and suffers from flaking paint and unsightly chips. For years, people have been installing drop-in liners or covering their beds with tonneau covers to hide the ugliness.

Drop-in liners work for a while, but water and debris work their way under the liner and accelerate the damage. Covers hide the damage, but make it difficult to use the bed of the truck. Roll-on coatings and spray can liners don’t hold up, flaking off when hit or scratched. Thankfully, there is LINE-X. The world leader in truck-bed protection, LINE-X is the number-one-rated spray-on bed liner because it stands up to the toughest abuse without blinking. LINE-X isn’t just a fancy paint—it’s a spray-on coating that permanently bonds to the surface of your truck bed, completely sealing out moisture and dirt while delivering impact-absorbing protection to the surface of your truck bed. LINE-X is the official bed liner of 4

Wheeler Magazine, Hunting Magazine, Stock Car Magazine and Circle Track Magazine, and has been recognized for innovation and performance with the Frost and Sullivan Award.

An eye on serving his customers As the owner of Custom Car Care, Rob Butts built his automotive detailing and cleaning business based on hard work and delivering top-notch customer service to his customers. As a professional detailer, he had seen first-hand the problems that his customers were having with their truck beds. When he heard about the results that people were getting with LINE-X, he had to learn more. “I drove to see a dealer and looked at the Autumn 2010

| 155

quality of the product. I really couldn’t believe the results that they were getting. I was familiar with other spray-on liners, and there was really no comparison between them and LINE-X,” says Butts. For Butts, customer service is where it’s at. Since founding his business in 1985, he has learned what it takes to make people happy. “I’m not just a business owner, I’m a consumer as well. I want my customers to feel as good about their buying decisions as I expect to be about mine.” Custom Car Care LINE-X Regina is an exclusive distributor for the LINE-X product, but Butts doesn’t let that go to his head. “I don’t take for granted that my business is the only one that sprays LINE-X. I’m honored to offer a product like LINE-X to my customers, and I’m proud of the quality that we deliver to them. I’ve built a reputation over the past 25 years, and that is important to me.” His competitors have taken notice as well. “I once received a referral from one of my competitors in the industry. They looked at their customer’s intended use and told him that their product wouldn’t stand up to the kind of abuse that he would put it through. Instead, they told 156

| Autumn 2010

him to have his bed sprayed with LINE-X. He hasn’t had any problems with the LINEX bed liner since we sprayed it.”

Safe...and bomb-proof? A chemist for Dow Chemical looking for a polyurea coating first recognized the benefits of such a durable finish. The formula was patented and LINE-X was born.

LINE-X is a two-part coating, mixed in a specialized spray gun and sprayed at high heat and high pressure. Once it contacts a surface it sets up within three seconds and is completely dry after eight seconds. When an appointment is scheduled a vehicle can be dropped off, prepped, sprayed and picked up in one day. The resulting finish looks great and will outlast your truck. Whether you are hauling hockey bags, bedding plants, or construction materials for that new backyard project, LINE-X will keep things looking great for years to come. Even if you never haul anything in your truck bed, the coating will add value to your vehicle and protect your investment. LINE-X is so tough that variations on the formula have been used to coat the walls of buildings like the Pentagon to protect people from bomb blasts and explosions. The process is environmentally friendly, too. It produces no CFCs, no VOCs, and is not flammable. Because the product is 100-percent solids, there is no air pollution created as a by-product of spraying LINE-X. Rob Butts tells a story about how safety inspectors came to his shop after noting that some competing products were dangerous to handle. “The inspectors just couldn’t believe how safe the product was.” Because LINE-X is such a tough product, the company backs it with a Lifetime Warranty. With more than a decade of proven world-wide commercial, industrial, and custom applications, you know that you can count on LINE-X to perform.

More than just truck beds LINE-X isn’t just for truck beds. It can be used to protect farm equipment, playground equipment, and almost anything made from materials like concrete, wood, steel, and fiberglass. There has been a lot of growth in the trailer market. The fronts of trailers are showered by rocks and gravel and often end up looking terrible after just a couple of seasons of towing. When coated with

LINE-X, your trailer will be almost impervious to damage from those road hazards. This is great for protecting the value of expensive camping trailers and keeping other equipment looking good. Depending on the use of your trailer, the entire trailer could even be coated to prevent damage and keep everything looking great. Coming to Custom Car Care LINE-X Regina next spring is LINE-X’s new floor coating, ASPART-X. ASPART-X is a new tough, durable and UV-stable scuff-resistant coating from the creators of the original LINE-X. ASPART-X can be used to coat decks, garage floors, basement floors, warehouses—even show-

room floors. More information about LINE-X and photos and video of completed projects and tests can be found online at www.line-x.ca. Custom Car Care LINE-X Regina 1308 McIntyre St. 569-2273 customcarcare@sasktel.net www.line-x.ca

Autumn 2010

| 157

health & wellness

New ways to get fit

You don’t have to go to the gym to get in shape BY JENN SHARP

he options are seemingly endless if you’re looking for fun, new and challenging ways to get fit this summer in Regina. The city has been welcoming new training facilities and fitness classes that all promise to have you looking and feeling fabulous, while trying something new. Dance fitness started as a trend and has become increasingly popular as people discover the strengthening and toning benefits that come from a dance-infused 158

| Autumn 2010

work out. And you don’t have to be a lithe ballerina to enjoy these classes. Two different classes are on offer at the YWCA, in downtown Regina, one of the only places in the city where you can learn Nia or Bellyfit.

Nia Amanda Roman teaches Nia twice a week to a variety of male and female students, ranging in ages and fitness levels.

Nia is a combination of three dance forms, three martial arts and three healing arts and aims to “incorporate the mind, body and spirit in a personalgrowth fitness program” explains Roman. She says that everyone can do Nia and that everyone from athletes to beginners can reap the benefits of the unique and challenging regimen. Three levels of intensity are provided for every movement, as well as a variety in the range of mo-

tion throughout the eight to 10 song routines. Roman says each class focuses on different elements and that people can participate as much or as little as they are able: “It’s all about having fun and experiencing joy.” Roman says the benefits of Nia include cardio, muscular strengthening, emotional and mental wellbeing. “It’s very uplifting. After a class, I always feel a million times better.” The best feed-back she has received came from a regular student who said, “My body likes it. It’s the sanest thing I do all week!” According to Roman, “It’s all about paying attention to your body and communicating with yourself... It’s different than regular fitness routines.”

Bellyfit Another class that’s hard to find offered in Regina is taught by Stacey Fayant at the YWCA and is called Bellyfit. Fayant explains that it’s a fusion form of fitness inspired by Bhangra, Bollywood, African and belly-dance moves. Bellyfit “celebrates movement through dance and is focused towards women,” says Fayant. Similar to a regular aerobics class, each Bellyfit session comprises a warm-up, cardio, core strengthening and stretching. Core moves are Pilates-inspired and the stretching portion comes from yoga practise, making Bellyfit a true fusion class. During cardio segments participants learn choreography, and after a few classes are able “to put their own style into the dances,” says Fayant. Music is the heart and soul of a Bellyfit class and the energy of the music is a source of inspiration and motivation for participants. The music ranges from high-energy tribal beats to culturally rich and relaxing melodies. Fayant says the class is fun to teach and it’s “freeing and relaxing.” Many of her students enjoy the African movements the most because they are “very strong and ones we’re not used to in North America.” Each class ends with a final meditation and deepbreathing exercise, called the closing mudrah, a gesture to focus the mind. “We’re not used to this in regular aerobics practice,” explains Fayant. “In Bellyfit, we’re getting in touch with our bodies,” and finding happiness in the moment.

Fitness through pole-dancing Another option for dance fitness in Regina is of-

fered at Aradia Fitness. The company began in Vancouver in 2003 and has since expanded across Canada and the United States in 18 locations. Krystal Wall is the owner of the Regina location and of the Aradia franchise. Aradia offers a variety of pole dancing classes, geared for everyone from beginners to the very advanced. “It’s a great workout,” says Wall, and it’s in a women-only environment, giving ladies the chance “to meet other ladies and find their inner sexy side.” She found that women want more than the basic gym experience. Aradia classes “are fun and make women feel good. In turn, they want to work out more, eat better and change their lifestyle for the better.” Class participants can expect to see huge results. “Pole dancing will give you more confidence because Aradia is non-judgmental and all the other ladies are here to support you,” says Wall. She says people’s perceptions of pole dancing for fitness classes are changing, but she still fights stereotypes: “It takes a lot of education! We’re not exotic dancers...We’re just regular girls.” Although Wall says the inspiration for Aradia came from exotic dancers, “you have to admit those girls are in fantastic shape. We took the good parts of the stripping industry and put it into a fitAutumn 2010

| 159

health & wellness People can expect to see between five and 20 pounds lost and around three to five inches gone per month, but they have to be committed to the program and to eating right. “It shows when people have changed their eating habits and kept up with the workouts,” says Lacey. He also takes participants measurements throughout the program so they can determine how much fat has been lost and how much muscle has been gained.

ness environment.” The ages of class participants ranges from 18 to 70, but the average age is between 20 and 55. The fitness level of participants also varies a lot and Wall says she teaches everyone from women who have never worked out before to fitness instructors looking for ways to shake up their routine. She encourages everyone to try it at least once: “Nobody knows what they’re doing the first class. You’d be surprised by how much strength you have.” Wall feels the Aradia environment is empowering for women and teaches women and the public that “girls don’t have to wear revealing clothes to be sexy. It’s about confidence—that’s what’s sexy.” She has equipped the studio with floor-length mirrors, which she hopes will help her students to become “less critical of themselves and of other women’s bodies.”

Boot-camp fitness If dance fitness is not your thing, that’s okay—there are a ton of other options in the city. Ryan Lacey opened Results Training and Conditioning in the fall of 2006 because he wasn’t satisfied with other gyms. His studio specializes in personal training and boot camps. He is also one of the only companies in Regina to offer a mobile fitness service and free nutritional counselling to all of his clients, because “I want to give our clients every opportunity to succeed. Ninety percent of people’s diets are based on myths and they often do the exact opposite of what they should.” Boot-camp fitness programs are becoming a popular way to get fit fast. Lacey offers an even playing field in each session for people of all fitness levels. Exercises are done for a certain amount of time, not repetitions, so that people can exert themselves according to their individual abilities. He offers boot camp in four-week segments because he finds it’s easier for people to commit. “It’s a total body workout—we use dumbbells, core work, interval training and flexibility training to provide a total fitness experience.” He also holds biggest-loser challenges where winners receive gift certificates to fitness apparel stores.

160

| Autumn 2010

If you prefer to work out at home, a Results personal trainer can come to your home and teach you the proper ways to use your existing equipment to achieve the maximum benefits. Lacey says they cater to a wide variety of people who are often looking for time-saving ways to work fitness into their daily routine. He says it’s also a cost-effective way of getting fit because “you’re paying for someone’s expertise, instruction and technique. That doesn’t compare with going to the gym. Some people will go to the gym for years, not knowing what they’re doing and won’t see results.” His goal is to make exercise a way of life for his clients by getting them what they want: “When people see results, those results become addictive and they don’t want to quit.” For more information: YWCA F itness Classes: www.ywcar eg ina.com/Prog rams/Heal thWel lness/F itnessClasses/Fitness.h t ml Aradia Fitness www.aradiafitness.com Results Training and Conditioning: www. resultstc.c a

PHOTOS BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO PHOTOGRAPHY

The original location at 2336 Ninth Ave. N. has blossomed into a 4,300-square-foot full-service relaxation destination. The east location in Windsor Park (3115 Woodhams Dr.) opened in 2007 and is currently expanding to offer even more services to clients, and the south location at 3775 Pasqua St. opened in 2008 to serve the south and west sides of the city. With the expansion of the east spa, due to be completed in December, you will be able to visit any of the three locations and access all of the services that Soma offers. Each location offers a complete range of spa services, from hair cutting, styling and colouring to tanning, electrolysis, reflexology, massage and more. “We recently launched Laser Lipo, a laser treatment that literally melts away fat, allowing you to target those trouble areas and improve your looks and self-esteem,” says Vicky Tanton. “Some clients have reported reductions of as much as three inches in areas that have been treated.” The registered massage therapists are experts in dealing with therapeutic massage, sports massage, hot stone massage and pregnancy massage. Each location has single and double massage rooms so you can relax and escape by yourself or with a friend.

Group nights and parties Going out for a night of fun and pampering is a great way to spend your time. With Soma’s ability to accommodate groups of 30 or more, you can book some or all of the facilities to shower you and your friends in luxury. A great way to celebrate a birthday, engagement, wedding, or any other occasion, ladies’ (and men’s!) nights offer you the opportunity to relax and let the worries of the world fade away while surrounded by your favourite people.

Friendly, knowledgeable staff

Finding “me time” Growing spa is dedicated to helping clients forget the outside world BY RYAN HOLOTA

n May 2004 the doors opened at the very first location of Soma Salon and Spa. Dedicated to helping its clients find time away from the outside world, Soma had only two employees, three tanning beds, and 1,400 square feet of space.

The brainchild of Margaret Kouros and Vicky Tanton, two sisters frustrated by the lack of quality, friendly and affordable spa services, Soma has grown by leaps and bounds since then due to a tireless focus on the customer. Now with three locations and more than 55 employees, Soma is the premier destination for those looking to escape for an hour or an entire day.

161

| Autumn 2010

Any business is only as good as its staff, and Soma is proud of the relationships it has built with its employees. Most of the staff members come from referrals by other employees, and each of them undergoes regular training on the products and methods that make Soma so unique. As Margaret Kouros explains, “Product knowledge is very important to make sure that they are using everything correctly, but it is not just our products that make us different. At Soma, we have a philosophy of customer care that we are very serious about, and it’s important that each employee truly understands and embraces how we want our clients to feel.”

Only the best products Soma is proud to be aligned with some of the best names in the personal care business. Offering Dermalogica skin-care products, Schwarzkopf styling products and Gehwol lotions and cleansers, Soma has carefully chosen all of the products that it uses because of the results that they help its clients achieve. Soma even has a relationship with Zoya, a toluene- and formaldehyde-free nail-polish company that offers every colour under the sun and a hard, chip-resistant finish. Recently Soma has added the sought after Shellac product, which remains flawless for 14 days.

Total comfort Soma is a Greek word that means “body,” and encompasses everything done at the spa. From the moment you walk in the doors to the moment that you leave, it is clear that you have entered a haven away from it all. With the goal of making sure that everybody feels comfortable, the entire salon is decorated in soothing colours and rich, warm fabrics. The treatment rooms are candle-lit, with soothing music floating from the ceiling. Even the waiting rooms are designed around helping you relax and feel special. One thing is guaranteed: no matter how you feel when you walk in, you will feel better when you walk out.

There when you need them “We understand that our clients lead busy lives, and that it’s hard to find time to get away. We’ve tried to make that as easy as possible for them. We have three locations: one in the north, one in the east, and one in the south. We offer extended hours at all of our locations—9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 12 noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. On top of that, all of our locations are wheelchair-accessible and offer free parking,” says Jason Tanton, who became part of the business in 2008. When you are ready to get away from it all and lose yourself in relaxation, give Soma Salon and Spa a phone call at 347-SOMA (7662). You can also find them on the web at www.somasalon.ca. Get ready for some “me time!”

Improving people’s lives With laser lipo and laser hair removal, Denice Meaden helps people feel better about themselves BY LEE PARENT

enice Meaden simply loves people, and will be quick to tell you so....but there’s really no need, for that love adds an indefinable charm to her conversation and permeates her words with enthusiasm as she discusses her business and all the other facets of her fulfilling lifestyle. Some time ago, Meaden was relieved to leave the strictures of office routine behind her, and didn’t miss the daily commute from Buena Vista to the city. But once her two sons left home, she began to crave other elements of the workaday world, such as interaction with coworkers and customers. Searching for a business venture to fill that gap, Meaden discovered the aesthetic treatments that now form the basis of her career: laser hair removal and laser lipo. One can’t doubt Meaden’s sincerity as she describes her desire to make the world a better place. “I can do that by helping people feel

better about themselves,” she said. “It isn’t selfish to take good care of yourself and your appearance, if it improves your quality of life.”

Kick-starting selfimprovement Truthfully, I gained new perspective on the concept of laser lipo when she described the treatments as a way to kick-start a self-improvement campaign. A client often loses half an inch from the treatment area after one session, sometimes as much as three inches. Such a visible, measureable difference can inspire a person to make changes in lifestyle that continue this process of self improvement. That person will exercise a little harder and make better nutrition choices, wanting to build on the enhanced image they see after laser lipo. The momentum builds,

the client gains self-esteem and feels healthier, and is obviously happier. The client’s goals are fulfilled and so, too, are Meaden’s. Meaden is the only person to offer laser lipo in Regina, although the service is also available in Saskatoon. Before beginning a course of treatments, she offers a free consultation to determine the needs of prospective clients. The sessions are about an hour and a quarter long; the process is painless and non-invasive. As for laser hair removal, enhanced self-esteem is an effect of these treatments too, for men and women alike. A surprising number of people endure the embarrassment of excess hair, or hair that grows in inappropriate places on the body. This condition tends to escalate as we age. There are any number of ways to remove such growth, but many are time-consuming, uncomfortable or ineffective. Who wouldn’t rather relax in a private, serene setting while

Autumn 2010

| 163

A timesaver One benefit of such a program is a reduction in grooming time on into the future, and as we all know, grooming can take a great deal of time indeed. If a busy person can eliminate shaving, waxing or plucking from his or her daily schedule, he or she can free up a significant amount of time. “We are all so busy,” Meaden reminds me, not that I need reminding. “Saving a few moments every day can lead to an extra hour here or there, which we can use so much more productively.” Her attitude is infectious and her logic is indisputable; in her mind, everyone deserves to treat themselves well, especially if that leads to a simpler life and an elimination of stress. Meaden emphasizes the suitability of her treatments for people of both sexes. “Women don’t like to talk about it, but having excess hair can be traumatizing,” she explains, and I have to agree, but apparently men can be affected by the same problems. Their excess hair might be on their chest or back, affecting their professional image, or their facial hair might be difficult to maintain. In either case, it can be frustrating and time-consuming to deal with this cosmetic issue without professional assistance.

Based in a spa At the conclusion of our interview, Meaden gives me a tour of Soma, the day spa where she bases her business. Operating as an independent contractor, she rents a room in the spa, equipped with her specialized equipment and a very comfortable-looking lounge table. Soma recently relocated to 2336 9th Ave. N. in Regina. I found the surroundings spacious and soothing, with restful color schemes and very modern equipment. The various aesthetic treatments offered by Soma are complementary to the treatments that Meaden provides, and she feels very lucky to have made this connection. “The staff here is wonderful,” she enthuses. “Everyone is very professional, very upbeat, very customer-service oriented.” At this time, Meaden offers her services three days a week, and will expand that schedule as business increases. More information is offered at www.somasalon.ca; consultations and appointments can be booked by calling Soma Spa at 347-7662. Denice Meaden 2336 9th Ave. N. 377-7662 www.somasalon.ca

164

| Autumn 2010

PHOTOS BY CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

a technician applies a beam of highly concentrated light to a designated area of the body for a few moments? This area might encompass a few square inches or a large portion of the body; in either case, the results can be miraculous.

No more excuses Private trainers will come to you, at your convenience BY LEE PARENT

love to exercise—I really do. But I don’t enjoy having anyone see me exercise, because my form leaves a lot to be desired, whether I’m jogging or attempting the plough on a yoga mat. And not many women are at their best in exercise togs with no makeup. I find classes intimidating and a gym even more so; my main excuse for avoiding exercise is that I hate to embarrass myself in public, or even in front of friends. With her experience in the health and fitness industry, Brittany Warren has heard all the excuses for not exercising. Once she identified the top three reasons that people give when asked why they don’t exercise, she felt confident that she could help those people and create an exciting business venture at the same time. Wellness On The Way offers solutions to those top three excuses for not working out: “I don’t have enough time,” “I’m not sure where to start,” and “I’m intimidated going into a facility.” Wellness On The Way offers great rebuttals to all of my excuses. Its personal trainers come to clients’ homes and provide all the necessary equipment. There’s no travel time; the trainer will come to me, when and where it suits my schedule. No one will see me except the trainer. And the chances are good that a professional has actually seen someone with worse form and more flab. Above all, this trainer can assess my present fitness level, help me set goals for improvement, and start me on a program to reach those goals at a realistic pace. I can’t wait to get started.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Conditioning youth Step by step, certified trainers build speed, strength and stamina in young athletes Wellness on the Way now offers Youth Conditioning Services. According to Brittany Warren, founder of Wellness on the Way and a former University of Regina Cougars hockey player, “We are the only trainers who are certified by the International Youth Conditioning Association (IYCA) in Saskatchewan. It’s like a post-secondary degree—every trainer has basic qualifications, but our IYCA credentials are a specialty in the field of youth fitness. “The philosophies of the IYCA and long-term athletic development can be equated to your child’s education,” Warren continues. “Your son couldn’t possibly complete Grade 2 in six weeks, because succeeding in school is based on learning simple, basic skills, progressing them over time and then applying them to specific situations. That’s exactly what the IYCA training system has taught us as well. “It’s common to think that all you have to do is put out some cones and have young athletes run through them quickly, but without learning proper body control and building the proper core strength, these kids won’t ever be able to run as fast as possible or control the speed of a game,” Warren says. “We would never put our 10-year-old in high-school math without first having completed Grades 5 to 8. Success in one depends on success in the other. The same is true for training and that’s why our program is structured the way that it is. “We have such passion for coaching each kid to be a little bit better every day; in sport, but also in life. We also recognize that involvement in sport can be a huge financial load, so we now have a fundraising program for teams and players. Our company mission is to overcome all boundaries and help each person reach their physical potential! “We train individuals, small groups or teams, starting at age seven, at our training center at 1555 8th Ave., at The Goaltenders’ Training and Rehab building, or we come to the rink or field.” Wellness on the Way wellnessontheway.com Brittany@wellnessontheway.com 569-WELL (9355) 591-6299 (cell)

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Glaucoma Dr. Laura Montgomery, O.D. Optomestrist/Partner Advance Eye Care Center Ph: 306.586.7036

laucoma is one of the most common causes of blindness, affecting more than 250,000 Canadians. In most cases, it is completely asymptomatic, therefore regular eye health exams are critical to ensure early diagnosis and treatment. Glaucoma is an eye disease that occurs when the optic nerve is damaged. Our optic nerve can be likened to an electrical cable made up of millions of smaller wires. These many wires are responsible for carrying all the images of what we see to the brain. High intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye) is one of the leading risk factors associated with glaucoma. The front portion of the eye is filled with clear fluid called the aqueous humour which continually flows through the eye and is then absorbed by the eyes’ drainage system. The intraocular pressure depends on the amount of this fluid in the eye. If a blockage arises within the eyes’ drainage system the pressure inside the eye will in-

crease; this damages the optic nerve fibres (wires of the electrical cable) and one by one they begin to die, resulting in permanent loss of peripheral vision. There are two main types of glaucoma. The most common form is open angle glaucoma (OAG). OAG occurs when the eyes’ drainage system is blocked and pressure gradually increases. Most people have no symptoms until much damage has been done. If left untreated , OAG causes gradual loss of peripheral vision. OAG usually respond wells to treatment, especially if caught early. The second type is angle closure glaucoma (ACG). A simple test can be done by your optometrist to determine if your angle is normal (wide) or at risk of ACG (narrow). Symptoms associated with angle closure glaucoma include headaches, eye pain, nausea, blurred vision or rainbows around lights. Your optometrist will routinely perform these tests to watch for glaucoma: tonometry (mea-

surement of intraocular pressure) and ophthalmoscopy (assessment of the retina and optic nerve, and visual fields (test of the side/peripheral vision). Additional tests may also be recommended if you are considered at risk. Anyone can be affected by glaucoma, but certain factors do increase your risk, including high intraocular pressures, family history, age (individuals over age 60 are six times more likely to develop glaucoma), taking steroid medications or being of African-American decent. Whether you fall into the higher risk categories or not, regular eye health examinations by your optometrist are essential to early detection and diagnosis of glaucoma. Early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma can help preserve your sight. The optometrists at Advance Eye Care Center are currently accepting new patients. Call 586-7036 today to book your examination.

Orthopaedic Surgery Plastic Surgery LAP-BAND® Dentistry

It’s about You, and How We can Help 530 UNIVERSITY PARK DRIVE, REGINA, SK S4V 2Z3

P:(306) 545.8181

F: (306) 545.8182 INFO@OMNISURGERY.CA

WWW.OMNISURGERY.CA

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Skin Rejuvenation By Dr. Nicole Mitchelson DTCM, R. Ac., RMT, B.Sc. Allied Health Centre - University of Regina 337-2643 www.drmitchelson.com

ver the past few years, cosmetic acupuncture has attracted attention worldwide, especially in major centres like New York and Los Angeles. It’s no longer just for the rich and famous: now everyone wants it.

face, can help eliminate fine lines and soften deeper lines, and can minimize dark circles under the eyes, puffy eyes, double chins, sagging skin and drooping eyelids. Other benefits the Toronto clinic lists include:

A few years ago the Telegraph newspaper in England reported that Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Cher were among the celebrities undergoing weekly “acupuncture facelifts” to ward off wrinkles, with Jenifer Lopez, Sandra Bullock and Jennifer Aniston also among the faithful embracing this ancient technique.

• Relaxed muscle tone;

In 1996, a report in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture examined 300 cases of people treated with cosmetic acupuncture, and found that 90 percent of those treated experienced marked effects with a single treatment. Among other things, their skin became more delicate, the elasticity of their facial muscles improved and they developed a ruddier complexion: in other words, they experienced an overall rejuvenation. On its website, cosmeticacupuncture.ca, the Cosmetic Acupuncture Clinic of Toronto says that cosmetic acupuncture may take anywhere from five to 10 years off your

• Increased circulation (and therefore increased oxygen) to the skin; • Increased collagen production; • Tighter pores and brighter eyes; • Acne control; • Better-nourished skin, which provides a healthier complexion with a natural glow; • Skin moisturized from the inside, which gives rosy cheeks to people with dull, tiredlooking skin. It’s often been said that beauty begins on the inside. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the same can be said of wrinkles and other signs of aging. In my

practice at the Allied Health Centre (University of Regina), I address ways TCM and acupuncture can help patients combat the aging process. Practitioners of TCM and acupuncture provide a safe, effective, and drug-free alternative treatment that can improve muscle tone of the face and neck. Acupuncture can tighten pores, improve dermal contraction, and enhance skin elasticity to reduce signs of aging as it strengthens and stimulates circulation in the face. Using TCM and acupuncture, combined with herbal supplements, exercise, and appropriate health care, can help patients look and feel more energetic, vibrant, and healthy. Before using drugs or surgery to improve appearance, consider these natural, safe, and painless alternatives to help your whole body look and feel younger. For more information on facial rejuvenation, visit my website at www.drmitchelson.com.

Specific Classroom Techniques Can Help Children Improve Focus

oes it seem that you don’t have to look very far to find a child who has ADD or ADHD? It’s true that in any group of children, there will be some who find focusing on a single thing at a time more challenging than others. A difficulty in sustaining focus for a period of time doesn’t necessarily mean an automatic diagnosis of ADD or ADHD. Many children are labeled ADD/ADHD without actually having the disorder. In fact, when in comes to learning in the classroom, many children who may be singled out as having ADD/ADHD may actually be able to sustain focus on other activities. Kids can focus on tasks that hold their interests such as movies or video games, but, at school, they lose interest in what is being taught and stop paying attention. The path to learning how to pay attention requires self-awareness. In the education field, this is known as metacognitive awareness. It simply refers to the process of being aware of our mental processes and of our thinking in the moment. For example, while doing homework, a female student recognizes that she has been daydreaming and listening to the radio that is playing in the other room, rather than focusing on the work that is open in front of her. She then recognizes that the radio is a distraction, and gets up to turn the volume down so that she can return to her work. Motivation is another very important factor affecting our ability to pay attention. When students are motivated to learn something—be it a new video game, a complicated skateboard maneuver, or a particularly interesting math equation, they can sustain their attention. The problem arises when students are asked to sustain their attention on something that doesn’t hold their interest. Because they are not motivated to learn it, their attention drifts, and they can easily

become distracted. In a classroom setting, this behaviour can be very disruptive, and can lead to labeling. According to Janet Klassen, Centre Director of Oxford Learning Regina, kids can learn to hold their attention, even when they are not particularly interested in something, “Attention is a school skill just like organization and time management. With instruction, kids of all ages can learn this skill and become better students.” Klassen says, “Medication can very often help children manage the symptoms of their learning challenge, but helping them develop learning skills gives students a technique that they have control over. This is very empowering for students and parents alike.” Developing an awareness of what their minds are doing, when they are off-task, and how their behaviour is affecting others can help students feel motivated to learn. Some of these techniques include: •Saying the child’s name before giving in-

structions, so that the child has a cue that you are about to begin speaking. •Having the student repeat instructions that you have given him/her to ensure that they are understood. •Have the child look directly at the person who is speaking to him/her. When the eyes wander, the brain follows. •When giving key instructions, repeat and emphasize key words. •When distractions are recognized, remove them. If the classroom fish tank is distracting, ask to have your child seated out of its direct sightline, or have it moved to another area.

For more information about ADD/ADHD and learning strategies for focus and attention issues, or about any of Oxford Learning’s programs, contact Janet Klassen at Oxford Learning Regina, 306-790-2000; regina@oxfordlearning.com

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Skin Care Trena Olfert TANDA Spa

t’s time to recover from the summer and allow your skin to renew and replenish!

There are many different treatments to indulge in from head to toe. Sugar and salt scrubs are amazing for helping to get rid of dead skin and bring your natural skin tone to par. Facial masks with brightening agents such as lemon, strawberries or oats are great for diminishing sun damage, and can be used once a week for maintenance in between your spa treatments. To help naturally protect skin’s collagen and elastin, look for products that contain soybean or rice protein. To maintain a natural glow, invest in a tinted moisturizer with SPF of 15 or higher. It’s a nice light application and with the built-in tint it provides a flawless complexion. Tinted moisturizers are non-clogging and also contain anti-aging

ingredients to help repair and rebuild the skin. Nothing is more damaging to your skin than UV exposure. It sets off a chain of adverse and cumulative reactions that lead to wrinkles, discoloration, loss of tone and dehydration. Whenever you’re outdoors, even if you’re just running errands or strolling through the park, use a sun block with a minimum SPF of 15. With cool days coming, go visit your personal skin-care consultant and have her help you pick out hydrating and nourishing skin care products to prepare your skin for winter around the corner. When it comes to skin care, routine is also important. Using the right products, regularly and consistently, is the best way to get the very best results. That’s because our formulas are designed to have

a cumulative effect on your skin. Regular use insures top performance. Simply incorporate your customized skin care regimen into your regular grooming routine twice a day, every day. Taking a little bit of time out for your skin each morning and evening will guarantee that it will look its best for a very long time to come! Nighttime is the right time for skin. That’s when cells get busy renewing themselves and repairing the day’s damage. A minimum of seven to eight hours of sleep each night is ideal. Any less and your skin will wear the signs of fatigue. Proper hydration is essential for flushing out impurities, fostering the development of new cells and enhancing circulation. Try to drink six to eight glasses a day. Consistent habits lead to consistent results!

Place yourself in our light Skin Therapy and Education Skin Care Products • Mobile Makeup & Consultations Nutrition & Sports Nutrition Products

Holistic Skin Therapy 306.586.1321 www.tandaspa.com

170

| Autumn 2010

Autumn 2010

| 170

The weight is over! Struggling with obesity? A permanent solution is close at hand BY ALEXANDRA WALLD

s the number-one killer in Canada, obesity surpasses smoking as the leading preventable cause of death, but just because it’s preventable doesn’t necessarily mean those suffering have willingly chosen the condition. “People seem to think that we want to be obese or that we’re lazy, and it’s really quite the opposite,” says Deborah Pellettieri, one of the patients to get the “Sleeve” procedure with Weight Loss Forever, a referral service for weight-loss and cosmetic surgery based in Saskatoon. “Anybody I’ve met has done years of diets, pills and exercise, but they don’t work: if they did, we’d all be slim. When you get to be 100 pounds overweight, your body stops working; it doesn’t get your metabolism going, so you lose a little and gain it back. It’s a vicious cycle.” Ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger, can turn against your weight-loss dreams because of how it works, which is why

dieting and exercising have virtually a 100-percent failure rate for people who are clinically obese. “Through dieting, I created my own monster,” says Karen Valentine, RN, BScN, who got Sleeved through Weight Loss Forever. “In the end, it’s not because I created it, but how I was created; my body was predisposed to making this hormone in this way and the more I fought it, the worse it got.” Weight Loss Forever offers clients a support group, clothing exchange and comprehensive follow-up, and specializes in the Sleeve, a.k.a. Laparoscopic Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy. The 30-to-40-minute procedure induces weight loss by restricting food intake. Eighty percent of the stomach is removed, but the stomach continues to function normally. Because the Sleeve eliminates the part of the stomach that produces ghrelin, you tend not to feel hungry as often or crave sugary, fatty foods. “I’ve seen and felt that people who are heavy are the last group that can still be discriminated against. You’re always worried what’s in your shopping cart and wonder what others think,” says Valentine. “You feel like you’re naked in front of the world because people can see what’s wrong with you.” Melanie Wildman, CEO of Weight Loss Forever, started the company after she got Sleeved in April 2009. Now that she’s 100 pounds less than her higher weight, she knew she had to let others know about this permanent weight-loss solution. Weight Loss Forever has financing available, with payments as low as $145 per month, and the Sleeve is tax-deductible as a medical expense. Weight Loss Forever 665-8891 Toll-free (877) 306-8891 weightlossforever.ca P HO TO S B Y D EB O R AH P E LLE TTIER RI, CPA , D IV IN E IM A G ES , (W W W.D IV INE IM AG ES.CA )

Karen’s story The first time Karen Valentine felt fat, she was 10 years old; after that, she hated her body and feared becoming overweight. Karen mistakenly took a comparison to an aunt as a reflection of her weight, not her striking features, and didn’t learn the truth until 15 years later, when the physical reality had overtaken the emotional upset. “I used humour to hide my feelings, talked about being a plus-size Barbie and avoided cameras. Looking back, I

Before

shouldn’t have felt fat, but I think it’s a pretty common feeling,” says Karen, a RN and manager with the Infection Prevention and Control department at the Royal University Hospital. “That’s why I’m sensitive about what people say to kids; they don’t always take it right and you do mental damage to yourself when you feel that way.” The battle continued after childbirth and after losing more than 60 pounds (four times!), only to regain it back, the temporary results of exercise left her frustrated, turning her to thoughts of doing something permanent. Last fall, when her BMI hit 35.5, Karen, at 253 pounds, decided on surgery. After researching her options, Karen found an online ad for Weight Loss Forever and met with Melanie to learn more about the Sleeve. She’d thought about the Lap-Band and liked that it was reversible, but then Melanie asked her if she wanted her weight loss to be reversible.

My emotional weight loss is as significant as my physical weight loss and it’s the easiest thing I’ve ever done. “Being a healthcare professional, I worried about the care I would get outside Canada and the doctors’ credentials,” says Karen. “But Melanie did such great legwork, and because her brothers are physicians and her sister-in-law studies obesity in women at Cornell University, there was a lot of credit in what she said and I really felt I was in the best hands. Actually, the lead surgeon is board-certified in the United States and trained at the Mayo Clinic.” Coming from a family of 12, there was

| |

172 17172Autumn Autumn 2010

After Surgery

no support shortage when Karen told her family her decision; her dad even jokingly pointed out the procedure was cheaper than a funeral. At 38, Karen was Sleeved April 12, with her patient facilitator at her side, and since then has lost 57 pounds and made her way into what Weight Loss Forever patients call “One-derland,” that lovely place where your scale never reaches the big two-oh-oh. “Knowing you’ll never see that two at the beginning of your weight or be losing it again is surreal,” says Karen.

Deborah’s story As lead patient facilitator and photographer with Weight Loss Forever, Deborah Pellettieri, a Sleeve patient through Weight Loss Forever, helps patients considering surgery and photographs Sleeve Sisters at glamour shoots once they reach their goal weight. Seeing the happiness patients find through the procedure and the bonds they create with one another makes Deborah ecstatic; she never thought she could be part of something so meaningful. Ever since high school, Deborah had felt overweight. She tried slimming down with diet pills, LA Weight Loss and good, oldfashioned exercise. None of it worked.

I always felt like a failure because no matter what I did, it didn’t work. I felt it was all me.

After Surgery

On a six-year wait-list for a full bariatric weight loss surgery, Deborah changed her mind and decided to go with the Sleeve through Weight Loss Forever. Her doctor warned her diabetes was lurking around the corner and she knew she had to go ahead with the procedure. On January 19 Deborah was Sleeved, lost 75 pounds, and was freed Before from GERD, a typically life-long condition. “You go through such a physical journey right away, and the mental and emotional doesn’t happen right away, but now at eight months, it’s finally catching up,” says Deborah. “I feel hot. I’m 57, I’m wearing skinny jeans and

Autumn 2010

| 173

Gerald’s & Karen’s story When Gerald Vavrik and his wife Karen Amundson were married, they became life partners, life lovers and life losers. Since last fall, the couple has lost a combined total of 135 pounds. Karen, who had always been self-conscious about her weight, tried different diets to keep her scale happy. After giving birth to their now nine-year-old daughter, she started putting herself last. It wasn’t until two years ago, when her eldest brother died of a heart attack, that she realized she had to start taking better care of herself. “I had three reasons for getting weight loss surgery,” says Karen. “Cancer, dia-

betes and heart disease. After my brother died, it really hit home that I had to do something.” Gerald, like his wife, was worried about his weight and followed a strict, threehour-a-day exercise regiment, but five years ago an accident with a grain truck on the highway to Battleford forced him to take a break from his body and take care of his health. “I had many problems after the accident,” says Gerald, an electrical engineering technologist with AECOM. “Everything from a swollen brainstem to a broken forearm, wrist and most of my ribs. I pierced my left lung, tore the TCL out of my left knee and underwent four Before

high heels and I feel great. Looking back, if I’d known the result, I would have paid 10 times more and wished it was available 30 years ago.” The positive changes Deborah encountered through her journey motivated her to help others. As a facilitator, she helps patients feel comfortable learning about the Sleeve and jokes that after joining a patient in her operation, she literally knows her inside and out. “I’m lucky to be on the journey with other women and I’m so happy to explain it from both sides,” she says. “I always thought it was only me that was failing, being fat and eating the wrong foods, but there are so many people out there with the same thoughts, guilt and fears; they aren’t alone.” As a professional photographer, Deborah connects with patients on a further level, which helps her heal, too. “A big part of the photography business is making people feel beautiful, and even though I didn’t feel or look beautiful, I wanted to make everyone else look and feel beautiful,” says the award-winning photographer. “It’s what’s in your mind, and I have the sparkle back in my life. It’s not about looking beautiful; it’s about feeling beautiful, whatever that means for you.”

174

| Autumn 2010

surgeries; it took me three years to recover from that.” During that time, Karen’s and Gerald’s weights crept up. With health issues threatening them, the couple discussed their options. They eventually learned about Weight Loss Forever and the Sleeve procedure and decided to get the surgery done together. “The funny part about me and my husband going at the same time is that I was more eager than he was, but because he’s a guy, we were going back and forth, doing the ‘you go first and I’ll go with you as your support person.”

In the end, we took the plunge together and it worked out really well; we were there to support each other and we still are. On November 20, 2009, Gerald, at 320 pounds, and Karen, at 225 pounds, both got Sleeved. Since then, Karen has lost more than 50 pounds, Gerald is down 85 pounds, and both are steadily working toward their goal. “I tell people of the five major surgeries I’ve had in the past five years, this was by far the easiest,” says Gerald. “For lots of people, this might be the only permanent solution. If anybody has any doubt or is thinking about it, just talk to somebody who’s been there; it’s a very safe, great alternative.”

For more information contact Weightloss Forever at 665-8891; toll free at (877) 306-8891 or online at weightlossforever.ca After Surgery

The Water Warehouse: Specializing in water softening and purification

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 Reginaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Water Warehouse, at 1540 Park St., where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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-toown 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. The Water Warehouse recommends installing a water softener to help fixtures last longer and showers and tubs to stay cleaner. A water

17676

| Autumn

PHOTOS BY CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

BY SUSAN EASTON

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.

ing products, which use less salt and waste less water.

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 1540 Park Street, Regina, SK (306) 525-5421

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-it-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 fuel-efficient vehicles. As well, it offers the most efficient water-soften-

The Water Warehouse can be reached at 5224447. You can also check out their products and services at waterwarehouseregina.com.

Q: A:

I’ve been told that hearing aids don’t work in crowds – is that true? Background noise is the most challenging hurdle for any hearing aid wearer. Modern hearing aids use advanced algorithms within their specialized circuitry to help users separate the speech that they want to hear from the noise that they don’t want to hear. There is specialized testing for Speech in Noise difficulties. Use the results from this testing and you, the patient, will have greater success with your choice in hearing instruments. Education is the key. Although hearing care is offered by numerous providers, audiologists are uniquely qualified to prevent, identify, assess, & treat auditory disorders including hearing loss.

Lindsay Romain

Candace Leake

Dr. Debbie Davis

Mitch Davis

Administrative Assistant

M.S. Aud (C) Clinical Audi-

Aud (C), Au.D, Doctor of Audiology

B.Sc. Business Manager

Call today to book your appointment! 306.359.3277 www.lifewithsound.com

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Hearing Loss & Mp3 Players Dr. Debbie Davis Aud (C), Au.D, Doctor of Audiology Eastside Audiology & Rehabilitation Inc. 1830b Victoria Ave. E. 359.3277 www.lifewithsound.com

here isn’t a month that goes by without at least one patient commenting to me about the loudness of car stereos today.

I said “temporarily,” because it can start this way with Temporary Threshold Shifts (TTS), however, if done again and again, this TTS can become a Permanent Threshold Shift (PTS).

It isn’t a secret that loud noise causes hearing loss. I’ve spoken to many elementary school-aged children and they all know this fact. What they are not aware of is that research has proven that babies, children and teenagers are not immune to the damaging effects of noise.

The bad news is that hearing loss is irreversible. The good news is that it is preventable. At my clinic, Eastside Audiology, we have the equipment to detect when this TTS and PTS has occurred even before it affects hearing levels. I do otoacoustic emissions testing, and this test is so sensitive that I’ve been able to see the effect of unprotected hearing from a concert the night before or from several gunshot blasts from the day before.

The most recent American Medical Association journal cites a startling statistic from a study out of the United States. This study says that one in five, or 20 percent, of all teenagers has some degree of hearing loss. This is an increase of 30 percent since the last decade. For those of us in the industry, this leaves a fundamental question. Why is there a greater percentage of hearing loss in our children and teenagers when we know that, at most, only 10 percent of babies are born with hearing loss? According to a British study released a few years ago and an Australian study released in 2010, the increase in hearing loss can be linked to the high use of music headsets. We are living in the digital music player generation and we may be paying for it with our hearing. Genetics, presbycusis (aging) and noise exposure are the three most common causes for hearing loss today. Since we can’t change our parents and we haven’t found the fountain of youth, we must consider the noise that we are exposed to. Hearing loss due to aging does not begin until the average age of 72 years, so anything prior to this point can likely be attributed to noise exposure. The more noise exposure, the greater the risk of hearing loss. Risk analysis is vital, as hearing loss progresses so gradually that there will already be significant damage done before it is recognized to be a problem and is diagnosed. Unlike vision, where if someone or something looks blurry it is obviously the person’s vision that is damaged, hearing loss results in voices sounding muffled or not clear. Often those with hearing loss believe that the person speaking is mumbling, so they are commonly blaming it on others rather than recognizing the signs within themselves. In our teenage children these signs may not be as obvious. One such sign could be where a parent or teacher has to constantly repeat directions or instructions to the teenager. In the past we have chalked this teenage disregard to simple disobedience, when the actual reason could be hearing loss. We have to be careful with these signs because childhood hearing loss can affect not just social life, but, more importantly, education.

So what are the signs of hearing loss? Well, have you ever had a muffling sensation or ringing in your ears following a concert? Just like pain is a symptom of touching a hot element that damage is being done to your skin, muffling or ringing is a symptom that damage has been done to your hair cells. Your ears don’t give out pain signals from noise damage, they ring and muffle from noise damage. This is because the tiny hair cells in the inner ear responsible for sending electrical impulses up the nerve have bent over temporarily from too much impact.

178

| Autumn 2010

In regards to minimizing hearing loss in teenagers, we need to set limits of no more than half-volume on their music headsets. This can be achieved through a special headset or through parental locks on MP3 players. We need to avoid working out whiles using headsets as this can exacerbate the damage. Use hearing protection. There is hearing protection specifically designed for musicians or music lovers, hunters and industrial workers. We have headphones built to fit infants and children (take a look at Super Bowl champion Drew Brees holding his son at the big game). As always, when in doubt, check with your audiologist for any concerns regarding your hearing health.

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Custom Meds Jarron Yee The Medicine Shoppe 2310 9th Ave N Regina, SK, S4R 8C5 306.543.5555

harmacy compounding is the long-established tradition by which professionally trained pharmacy personnel prepare customized medication to a patient’s specific needs. This practice dates back to the beginning of medicine, when medical practitioners would compound medications using a mortar and pestle, and has evolved to be complementary to traditional medication using the latest equipment and evidence-based medical knowledge. Compounding pharmacies are not your everyday pharmacies. These pharmacies require rigorous training in the science and practical application of compounding medication, which is known at The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy as Custom Meds. Each of us is different. So it stands to reason that sometimes standard dosages, delivery methods or formularies may not be adequate for everyone. Compounded prescriptions are ideal for individuals who don’t respond to or tolerate traditional methods of treatment. Some of the advantages of Custom Meds compounding are customized dosages, altered drug delivery forms, the elimination of preservatives, and the need to make available back-ordered or discontinued medications, to name a few. Manufacturers create standard dosages which may not be suitable for everyone. When it comes to medication, I understand that not everyone is the same. With the physician’s consent, I can customize a patient’s medication (specific formulations and dosages), thus increasing reliability and decreasing the potential for

adverse effects. In addition, compounding prescriptions can be produced in numerous dosage forms depending on your medical requirements. For example, if you have difficulty swallowing pills, a liquid, topical gel or lollipop can be specially formulated to suite your needs. As well, if you are allergic to certain dyes or preservatives in standard medications, compounding can eliminate those ingredients. Being Regina’s only Custom Meds Pharmacist has allowed me to better serve the needs of my patients by giving me a thorough understanding of various disease states. From pain management (acute muscle or nerve pain, arthritis, or fibromyalgia) to Hormone Restoration Therapy and even Veterinary Compounding, compounding prescriptions is a great solution for those who are looking for options. Pain can be debilitating. It can take the form of a stress-induced headache, or a muscle group strained from sports activities or an injury. For some, pain can be chronic, a condition they live with daily. Many prescription medications for pain relief help the symptoms related to chronic conditions, such as arthritis, but many of these drugs have unwanted side effects, such as stomach upset. Custom Meds can provide you with the options you’ve been looking for. Hormone Restoration Therapy can have benefits for menopausal women who are experiencing the unwanted symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes. This therapy uses natural supplements that are derived from plant hormones that are bio-

logically identical to those naturally occurring in the body. Compounding Pharmacists, in collaboration with their physicians, can compound their individualized hormones in capsules, topical creams, liquids and vaginal suppositories to help restore their bodies’ natural balance. Compounding is a great alternative for family pets. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to animals and medication. When the exact dosage size needed isn’t commercially available, compounding pharmacies can specially prepare the dosage to your veterinarian’s specifications. If pets have trouble swallowing or refuse to take medication, my pharmacy can prepare the medication as either a liquid, topical gel or food treat in various flavours in order to medicate your pet. Compounding medication can be a great alternative or adjunct to traditional medication to treat numerous disease states. We will discuss some of these disease states in following columns. Talk to you Custom Meds Pharmacist at The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy regarding what treatment options are available for your individual unique health needs.

Autumn 2010

| 179

Seeking to be Mrs. Canada Pageant mixes beauty queens, bathing suits and the Republic of Afghanistan BY ALEXANDRA WALLD

s likely as it may be to find well-educated women—scientists, doctors, environmental engineers—congregated at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Ottawa, it’s not very often you’ll find them dancing in bathing suits or answering skill-testing questions in front of a panel of judges, but that’s exactly what happened August 21 at the 2011 Mrs. Canada Galaxy Pageant. Saskatoon’s own Melanie Wildman, CEO of Weight Loss Forever, was one of about 30 contestants from across Canada competing for the title role of Mrs. Canada. 180

| Autumn 2010

The Mrs. Canada pageant supports the Sunshine foundation, a Canadian charity created in 1987 that creates dreams for children with severe disabilities. More than 700 volunteers in 30 chapters across Canada work to makes dreams a reality. Pageant contestants met with kids helped by the charity and the Mrs. Canada Pageant winner, Kelly Robbins from British Columbia, works closely with the foundation to raise funds for the Sunshine foundation. Melanie, who had struggled with her weight for much of her life, recently underwent a permanent weight-loss procedure called the Sleeve. Motivated by her growing curiosity of whether or not she could succeed in the pageant, and by the mentoring her grandmother provided for contestants in Prince Edward Island, she submitted an application for the pageant. “The women that were represented across the country were all amazingly talented; smart beautiful leaders in their communities. The kinds of women who compete in pageants have to be incredibly well-rounded and make excellent mentors in the community. It was really inspiring being there with such an amazing group of people,” says Melanie. “And after struggling with my weight and knowing only two years ago that it was never an option to be in a beauty pageant, getting up on stage in a swimsuit was just surreal. It was overwhelming, but incredible. I’ve been able to expand my horizons and try things I never thought were possible before.” Many hours of the three days prior to the pageant were spent diligently memorizing the choreography of the opening number—which, for someone like Melanie, who doesn’t have a background in dance, was a whole new experience in itself. She laughingly reminds readers that answering impromptu questions with confidence, and coming down a flight of stairs in a bathing suit and sixinch heels, while doing spins on the stage in front of judges and cameramen, is a lot harder than most people realize.

Parliament pageantry As VIP guests at Parliament Hill, Melanie and the other pageant contestants were invited to attend the changing of the guards with representatives from the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan as they celebrated their Independence Day. “There were all these beauty queens with their sashes and then there were the representatives from the Republic of Afghanistan,” Melanie says, laughing at the memory. “There was a huge crowd of people taking pictures and asking to get their pictures taken with us, so it was a neat experience.” The pageant’s friendly, supportive atmosphere and the life-long friendships she made with other contestants convinced Melanie that although she didn’t become Mrs. Canada, she would compete in another pageant in a heartbeat— or a couple months; she was scouted by the Mrs. International Pageant and asked to compete against women from more than 60 countries this November in Jamaica. Supporting her will be her will be her 10and eight-year-old daughters, Caitlin and Abigail, her three-year-old son, Raine, and her husband, Blair. “My daughters are so proud of me for doing it; they both gave me huge hugs. When I got first runner-up, I was feeling down—even though I placed well, you always want to win—but my husband had a huge bouquet of my favourite flowers and a card that said, ‘You’re always my Mrs. Canada,’” says Melanie. “When you challenge yourself to do things you thought weren’t possible and put in the effort, anything really is possible.”

Paparazzi and inner-city youth Crowned Mrs. Saskatchewan 2010 at the Saskatoon Inn last May, Melanie has since been working hard to educate the public about the risks, misconceptions and medical issues surrounding obesity: 25 percent of adults in Saskatchewan are obese. She has also been working alongside Miss Saskatchewan, Ashleigh Clark, and the Witness to a Dream foundation

to bring their mentoring program for inner-city youth to Saskatoon. Melanie and Ashleigh recently represented the province of Saskatchewan in Los Angeles at the Branded Art exhibition, where they met Macy Gray, the vice-president of Universal Music, and were interviewed by the paparazzi. The art exhibition and live music event benefited the Witness to a Dream foundation. “The Witness to a Dream foundation has local artists—visual artists, dancers, ac-

tors, musicians—teach inner-city youth their trade, and right now we’re working together to bring that program to Saskatchewan,” says Melanie. “Ashley Clark is an accomplished dancer and I’m a visual artist; we’d be working with children at risk in Saskatchewan and we’re hoping to get it started in January.” The women are looking for sponsors, so anyone interested is urged to contact Melanie at 665-8891.

Autumn 2010

| 181

Treating people right Big-city RV selection meets small-town war mth, welcome and fun

BY LISA DEGELMAN

ene and Susan Minard, owners of Minards Leisure World in Weyburn, have grown their business from five to 30 staff and from carrying one line of recreational vehicle to several. Subsequently, they have become successful dealers in hot tubs and modular homes. Being award-winning merchants, housing a large and varying selection and providing customer service second to none are a few of the reasons why many make the trek down Highway 6 south to meet their leisure-time needs. In a recent interview, Susan Minard outlined why their business has become a success story in the RV world in just seven years. In your opinion, why do people travel from Regina, Moose Jaw and other surrounding areas to purchase recreational vehicles from Minards Leisure World? Most importantly, we have a warm and

182

| Autumn 2010

friendly staff that will make sure your experience is fun, relaxing and worth the trip. We have one of the largest selections in Western Canada, carrying 15 different lines for our customers to choose from. We find that many customers are looking for lightweight RVs. They usually have sport utility vehicles for comfortable travel and they want a travel trailer that can be pulled with ease. For that reason, we have several lines that are lightweight and many floor plans to choose from. The Surveyor, Flagstaff, Spree and Sportsmen models all have a different look and feel to them. Bunk bed models are extremely popular within the lightweight line-up and there are more and more floor plans and styles each year. V-noses have been exceedingly popular as well! They make use of every square inch and they tow like a dream! If you and your travelers are looking to be pampered, our new Cedar Creek Fifth Wheel has been very well received. Superior quality, and loaded with many options, makes these RVs simply a pleasure to be in. Fireplaces, TVs that can be hidden from view, ice makers, king-

sized beds and “real” La-Z-Boy® recliners are a few of the awesome options to decide upon!

In addition, we are the exclusive dealer for the Escalade top-of-the-line fifth wheel made by KZ. It is clearly one of the best in the industry. What can your customers look forward to in the upcoming spring? This past season outside kitchens on the bunk models were tremendously popular! I’m guessing that next year we will see

more of these kitchens on the “mom and pop” type of RV as well. Along with the bunk-bed RV, larger fifth wheels for those families selling their cottages and traveling through Canada and the US have been excellent sellers. It is an ab solute blast showing kids trailers with bunks and watching them pick out their own beds! We are heading to the Forest River dealer meeting at the end of September so we will certainly return with some new ideas! Our best selection is always available during the indoor shows in February and March so watch for us in 2011! Your dealership has won some very prestigious awards! Yes, we took home the top dealership for KZ-RV in all of MidCentral North America this year. This is a huge honour, as we were up against some very large dealerships! Last year we were number one in Canada, number two in North America and number one in Mid-Central North America as well. We also took the Top Service Award. We would graciously like to thank our staff and our customers for making this possible. We would not be nominated for these awards or be as successful without them. Your business is diversified. What other products is Minards involved in? We are a five-star Jacuzzi Hot Tub dealer and have one of the largest selections in

the province. This fits well with our business, as “hot tubbing” has become a very popular leisure-time activity! We also sell 16-, 20- and 22-foot-wide modular homes. With the need for affordable housing today, these types of homes have become increasingly popular for families. We deal with Friendship Homes out of Minnesota and Moduline from Medicine Hat. Each makes different floor plans and has different options. The new manufactured homes are gorgeous, with fireplaces, island kitchens…you name it! And, they can start as low as $68.000! You get a tremendous amount of repeat business! What makes this happen? Simple : we treat all of our customers with respect. It is clear to those that enter Minards that they will be treated fairly when it comes to price. Our customers know that we will put them in the right RV for them and that we will ensure their money is spent wisely. We always do our utmost to look after the customer following their purchase. If you treat people right, they will come back! To find out more about Gene and Susan Minard’s successful business, or to find a “Gotta Go Row” fall recreational vehicle bargain, check them out at www.minardsleisureworld.com or give them a call at 1-877-842-3288.

Autumn 2010

| 183

sports, rec & leisure

A public life After 15 years as general manager of the Regina Pats, Brent Parker looks back...and ahead BY RYAN HOLOTA

rent Parker has been in the public eye in Regina since he moved here over 15 years ago as the General Manager of the Regina Pats. As he moves into the next phase of his life, he sat down with Fine Lifestyles to discuss his past and his future. Parker and his wife, Karen, have raised two children in Regina: their son, Casey, is entering his first year at Campbell Collegiate and their daughter, Carlie, is attending Humber College in Toronto, where she will play for the Volleyball team. When asked if his son, who also plays hockey, would like to play for the Pats one day, Parker says, “No, if he makes it he wants to do it elsewhere; he’s just been drafted by the Everett Silvertips, so if he plays he hopes it will be for them.”

The Parker family story Russ Parker moved from Moosomin to Calgary in 1960 to find work. Always a Regina Pats fan, Russ was a sports fanatic who wanted to own a sports team. Through hard work and determination, Russ and his wife, Dianne, fulfilled their dream by purchasing a AAA baseball franchise and moving it to Calgary in 1985. Working for their parents’ baseball fran-

184

| Autumn 2010

chise, the Parker children spent time doing laundry, working on the grounds crew, acting as bat boys and working in the concessions. “It was a great way to grow up,” says Parker. “It taught me the value of hard work, and has helped me greatly today in understanding the challenges our current staff have.” A huge hockey fan, Brent Parker grew up playing hockey, and attended WHL Camps with the Calgary Wranglers, Billings Bighorns and Nanaimo Islanders. He eventually pursued his other passion and accepted a baseball scholarship to attend Treasure Valley Junior College in Oregon before transferring to the University of Arkansas in Little Rock. In the late 1980s the Parkers purchased the Kansas City Blades of the IHL, where they won the 1992 Turner Cup Championship. It was in early 1995 that Russ and Diane Parker were approached by Ed Chynoweth, President of the WHL, because the current owners of the Regina Pats were looking to sell the team. With the Parkers’ experience running sports franchises and their Saskatchewan connection, Chynoweth

felt that they would be a natural fit for the team.

Starting fresh In Regina The 1995/1996 season brought new ownership to the Regina Pats, and along with the ownership came a new general manager: Brent Parker. Brent had been running the family’s Junior A franchise in Kelowna and was excited to move to Saskatchewan. For that 1995/1996 season, the Regina Pats had only 490 season ticket holders. The new management brought new coaching staff, new marketing people, new receptionists, new philosophies, and the belief that it was very important for the team to take on a more active role in the community. “It is really important with any franchise, in any city, to be good members of the community,” says Parker. “This meant getting the team involved with a wide range of activities, from getting the players into schools, to getting them involved in coaching and charities.” Under Parker’s leadership, the Pats involvement in community charities has

grown. They have promoted Breast Cancer Awareness Month by playing with pink sticks and pink jerseys, and then raffling them off for charity. They hold The Annual Pats’ Wickenheiser Golf Classic supporting the Saskatchewan Cancer agency and The Caring Hearts Camp for Kids golf tournament. The Pats are also actively involved with KidSport Saskatchewan, donating money raised from their Sportsman’s Dinner. The Pats are also involved with the Heart and Stroke Foundation and participate in a pizza delivery night with Western Pizza. Members of the Regina Pats, wearing their jerseys, deliver the pizzas, and all proceeds go to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The Pats are a major supporter of minor hockey in Regina as well, sponsoring the Pat Canadians Midget AAA Team, giving tournament donations and offering player appearances. This year the Pats will work with Tim Horton’s and sponsor the entire Initiation Division. “All told, the Regina Pats donate between $75,000 and $100,000 back to the community every year.” Parker is especially proud of the players that have made up the teams over the years. Players become eligible for the draft at 15 years old, and can play at 16. These kids are often leaving home for the first time, and are still in high school. “Education is a very high priority for the league; we do a lot for them to promote education.” The focus on education doesn’t end with high school; for every year that a student plays with the WHL, they receive one year of tuition and books at an accredited post-secondary school.

Challenges The Regina Pats are the smallest market in which a WHL team has to deal with having a professional sports team in the same market. “We spend more on advertising than almost every team in our league, and with that, combined with our lease, which is at the higher end as well, it has been a challenge to remain viable.” Upon taking control of the team in 1995, Parker invested in the arena, filling

in a 12-foot gap between the boards and the seats commonly called “The Moat.” Over the years, the Pats have also invested in office renovations, dressing room overhauls, and working with the park to build skyboxes. “The park has done a really nice job with the facility. There is more still to be done, but they understand that and have a plan.”

Looking back Parker says that he has accomplished many of the thing he set out to accomplish. The Pats have hosted a Memorial Cup tournament, All-Star games, the Canada-Russia Challenge, and created a more active fan base. The Pats sold more than 3,000 season tickets last year, a huge improvement from the first year Parker was GM. “The Pats are a family owned, family run business. I’ve always tried to make decisions based on what I felt was right for the team,” says Parker, looking back on his years as GM. “That doesn’t always mean that I’ve made the right decisions. Over the years people have disagreed with my decisions, and that’s fine, but it’s unfair to criticize my commitment to this team.” Parker adds, “If I have offended people or rubbed people the wrong way because of my passion for this franchise, I apologize for that.” Living a life in sports can be like living under a microscope. Sometimes, even the most personal of details become common knowledge. “I received a phone call telling me that a story was coming out about my cancer diagnosis, and that if I wanted to release the news on my own that I should do it now. We hadn’t even told our kids yet.”

Looking forward Though he stepped down as GM of the Regina Pats in May, Parker is still involved as the club’s President and Governor. While the team has come a long way since Parker first took control, a championship is still missing from the record. Parker decided that he had done what he could, and that it was time for some new blood to step up and take on the role of GM. While his role has changed, Parker is still committed to bringing a championship home. As he steps back from directly influencing team decisions, he looks forward to being able to refocus his attention on his family and watch as the new team works to bring that elusive cup to Regina.

The Extreme Team Regina hockey store continues to strive to be the best in the province...and the country! BY ELISABETH JOSEPH

he last few months it’s been hard to figure out each day if I should be wearing shorts or a rain jacket. Sitting in the skate pit at Extreme Hockey and Sport, however, I quickly get the feeling that fall—and ultimately fall’s sport of hockey—is here. This year’s newest and hottest product is stocked and the staff is geared up to meet your needs!

to March, but the ones in between are extremely busy behind the scenes; especially for our managers,” explains Degelman. This year’s preparation for the upcoming hockey season was especially busy for the team at Extreme due to some additions to its managerial staff, as well as its owner’s upcoming change in office location.

“Our team works very hard over the spring and early summer months to prepare for the upcoming hockey season,” says owner Jason Degelman. This preparation includes hiring sales staff; receiving, pricing and merchandising an abundance of equipment, soft goods and moisture management apparel; and ensuring staff members are properly trained on the industry’s newest product.

Moving to the Mayan Riviera

“Our crazy retail months are mid-August

186

| Autumn 2010

Jason Degelman says his goal is to be the best hockey store in Saskatchewan and, ultimately, Canada. “We’re always striving to be the best we can be, whether it’s in customer service, product availability or marketability within the community.” Although Degelman has built Extreme Hockey’s brand to what it is today, he has not done so without a number of strong

teammates. And it’s these that are enabling the Degelman family to relocate south. Jason, his wife, Lisa, and their children, Hunter and Emersyn, are soon heading to their favorite vacation hotspot in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico. This time, it’s not for the usual two-week period. “Lisa and I have been planning this adventure for about four years…now seems to be the ideal time from both a personal and business standpoint,” Degelman says. “I have managers that I have immense faith and trust in, a strong team and our kids are at the perfect ages.” Watching Degelman limp around the store, it’s evident he is leaving for other reasons as well. While he remains devoted to his career and committed to achieving his business goals, he is taking a break to focus on where he wants his business to be in years to come.

tionships with a variety of good people residing in the Mayan and have become acquainted with a company that excels in travel, tourism and real estate. Who knows? With networking, learning and expanding our horizons, maybe we can eventually introduce these types of benefits to our corporate customers.” Degelman smirks about the several rumors floating around regarding the move. “We are not selling the business! We are not selling timeshares! We are not moving permanently! We are simply taking a short-term life (and health) sabbatical…we are living by Wayne Gretzky’s famous quote…‘You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.’” Degelman is adamant about letting customers know they can still reach him while he resides in the warmer climate, but has full confidence in his managers to adequately resolve situations. “We have two sharp, hard-working and respectable guys that can manage the store,” says Jason. “Together they have built a strong group of staff that can handle anything.”

General managers: Jordan Zaremba Jordan Zaremba, one of the company’s two Retail Operations Managers, has been a “…priceless addition to the lineup,” Degelman says. Zaremba joined the team in February 2010 after many years with competitor J and J Sports.

Degelman’s passion and ability to play sport at a competitive level was taken away he was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident in 1987. But it didn’t take him long to acquire a love of, and strong understanding for, retail business. “I have been in sporting goods retail for 23 years and the ownership aspect since 1997. I need a little break from the day-to-day practice of running a busy store,” admits the independent business owner. “And while I am down there my body feels so much better,” he adds, referring to his severe arthritis and long-lasting injuries suffered. While Degelman and his wife want their children, seven and five, to learn

Spanish and experience parts of North and South America, Degelman also admits his health has deteriorated and he struggles on a daily basis in the colder months. “I will continue to be heavily involved in the business,” explains Degelman. “With today’s technology and being only five, hours away I will remain in consistent contact with the team and will be available to troubleshoot any problems.” While Degelman is checking emails and holding conferences with his staff, he will also be networking to help build Extreme’s corporate business. “We have established several strong rela-

“I started my career as a kid lacing skates in a local hockey store,” laughs Zaremba, after acknowledging he has worked his way up the retail ladder. He is now dedicated to assisting a successful business owner with the daily operations of his store by maintaining a fun working environment, influencing positive morale and by being present within the community. “I have strong leadership skills and take pride in training staff to provide customer service and product information second to none,” says Zaremba. While doing this, he brings to Extreme a wealth of sporting retail knowledge, an instantly acquired respect from the staff and a solid customer following. It is evident that this 29-year-old possesses a fresh and positive attitude, an overall respect for athletes and a desire to

Autumn 2010

| 187

PHOTOS BY TRASHY MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

help them improve their potential.

bois.

Jordan’s philosophy in business mirrors his in life: “I believe I should treat people with the respect I want to be treated with; I should never be satisfied and should always strive to become better; I am only as good as the people around me, and I need to take pride in everything I do personally and professionally.”

“We come in contact with so many individuals who associate us with Extreme and in a way we must treat our positions the same manner as a pro athlete would within his/her community…this is important because with rising costs associated with hockey, customers need to trust and identify with the individuals that are fitting them or their kids,” explains Brisebois.

Jordan, originally from Balgonie, resides in Regina with his wife Alisha, a social worker, and plays senior hockey with the Balgonie Bisons.

General managers: Jordan Brisebois Jordan Brisebois, co-Retail Operations Manager, joined Extreme in January 2008. After obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (with Distinction), and while working on his Master’s degree, 25-year-old “Breezer” quickly worked his way up the retail chain with work ethic and strong leadership skills. He strongly believes in being an ambassador for Extreme both on and off the sales floor. “This belief system is invaluable to our company,” says Brise-

188

| Autumn 2010

He was told by Degelman that Regina is a small city and that the company must rely on repeat business and the loyalty of its customers. Brisebois believes this advice is the very foundation on which their store is built...customer service, or the “Extreme Experience,” is of the utmost importance! Jordan brings several years’ experience in organized sport, a practical and levelheaded model of thinking and a background that allows him to see skate and equipment fitting from an anatomical view like no other. In his current role, Jordan has helped implement category leaders on the sales floor. “This system empowers our employees … their input is essential in the day-to-day operation of the store…empowerment is an

excellent long term strategy to ensure we always have great leaders representing Extreme Hockey,” says Brisebois. Along with grooming strong representatives, it is the store’s grass-roots approach that embodies the spirit of Extreme’s largely Saskatchewan-based customer base. Jordan explains “there are fewer and fewer companies who share this incredibly important value, and because Saskatchewanians are so loyal to those they trust, I believe this company will continue to be successful for a very long time.” Jordan currently plays for the Kincaid Ma-

Daniels brings many solidified relationships with First Nations communities and extensive experience in sport, from coaching at a community level to assisting in the organization of Team Saskatchewan’s participation in the last three North American Indigenous Games. His primary interest lies within the nonprofit sectors which serve children and youth: namely, Aboriginal communities wishing to purchase quality sporting equipment for their people. “I have worked with children and youth and have always promoted sport to them,” explains Daniels. “I have met many people over my time and they have trusted and listened to my experience. I have made positive impact on peoples’ lives and have assisted with healthy changes in many communities.” Daniels’s experience, beliefs and desire for trusting relationships fit with Extreme’s philosophies and beliefs in grassroots business. Although Joe admits his first week at Extreme came with a huge learning curve, he is extremely excited to take these tools, and his personal attributes, into the community and to his people the best he can. Joe and his wife, Melissa, a teacher at Wascana Elementary School, along with four of his six children, reside in central Regina.

roons Senior Hockey Club and he and his wife, Désirée, a registered nurse, reside in Regina and hope to soon start a family. Having both grown up in rural Saskatchewan, they would eventually like to build a home outside of the city.

Newest addition Joe Daniels is Extreme’s newest team member. He leaves SaskSport after eight years as Aboriginal Sport Development Community consultant to join Scott Albert and Derek Carson in the Corporate Sales Division.

Degelman reiterates his strong faith in his team to meet customers’ needs. “I have introduced you to key guys in our organization. I have no doubt they will continue to meet my high standards as well as grow our business. Pop into the store and get to know them!”

Jason Degelman 757-1560 Jason@ex tr emehockey.net Jordan Bris ebois 721-8326 jordanbrisebois@ex tr emehockey.net Jordan Zare mba 721-8326 jordanzar emba@ex tr emehockey.net Joe Daniels 721-8326 joedaniels@ex tr emehockey.net

Autumn 2010

| 189

Prepare to be surprised

Regina Pats embark on a brand-new season with fresh passion and excitement BY ROD PEDERSEN

ou might be surprised by the 201011 Regina Pats. At least, that’s the prediction of those within Regina’s hockey team...and if you listen to them closely, you could easily walk away convinced. The Pats are experiencing a makeover as they embark on a brand-new season. After two years out of the playoffs (despite a roster boasting two of the country’s top junior stars in Jordan Eberle and Colten Teubert), the Pats made a move in the front office, replacing 15-year general manager Brent Parker with 32-yearold Regina product Chad Lang, formerly of the rival Moose Jaw Warriors. Parker took over the team’s presidency, while Lang assumed control of hockey operations. And when the Pats unveiled a 1920’s-era retro jersey at a news conference in their 19090

| Autumn

dressing room in early August, it was before a packed room full of reporters with cameras and notepads. What it showed was that there’s excitement in the air for the hockey club, and also that everybody’s on board with the new regime.

Passion for the Pats “There’s no question,” Lang says with a smile. “That’s what’s really exciting about this opportunity for myself; the passion in this community. The media’s involved, we have tremendous sponsors and there’s a tremendous fan base that’s followed this hockey club for many years. It’s our job to put a team forth that they can be proud of.” Lang was hired in May, and quickly went to work fact-finding over the summer

months. “A lot of my time has been spent with the coaching staff (coaches Curtis Hunt and Shaun Sutter) and the scouting staff (head scout Todd Ripplinger) to get a feel for what we have in our locker room as far as personnel,” Lang reports. “I’ve also been getting up to speed on the rest of the league and the other teams’ depth charts so perhaps we can upgrade at certain positions. I think the time period has allowed me the opportunity to look over other teams’ rosters, see where they’re at, and see what we have for players coming into the new season.” And what did he find? “At the end of the day, all three of those individuals want to have success,” Lang continues. “When you make a change like this, it gives them an opportunity to voice areas of concern or issues that they

felt need to be addressed so we can make the next step. We had excellent communication and discussions on what they want to see as well as what they think, in the big picture, will allow this team to have the success we’re all looking for.”

Hunt happy to get to work As for head coach Curtis Hunt, he was anxious to get back to work and start the long and winding road towards the Memorial Cup. “I’d say I had a good summer,” Hunt says. “It started out being long, but then it closed like a freight train. Once players started trickling back into town, it was nice to see them again. I got a real sense of excitement and anticipation from our guys. I think they see it as a new opportunity and I see different players who want to seize ownership of our group. Everybody’s got us written off, but the players and I believe that we’re going to make some noise and we’re excited to get going.” The team will be minus top stars Eberle and Teuber,t who’ve gone on to professional hockey, but Hunt is excited with who’s coming back. “You start with the key pieces, and in goal, we’ve got Damien Ketlo, who had 25 games two years ago and then a full

season last year,” Hunt explains. “He’s a proven guy. He’s dealt with anxiety, pressure and injuries, and we have a great guy pushing him in Dawson Guhle. Like any young player, his first season last year was tough and he had a tough run there for awhile where he couldn’t find a way to get a victory, but he finished strong. I really like where we start in terms of the anchor position, in goal. “As for defense, all our guys return (with the exception of Teubert). We’ve got some good young guys in Peel, Pavkovich and the European, Blidstrand, who had a great rookie camp in Philadelphia. As far as returning guys go, Cody Carlson, Brandon Davidson, they’re guys who made some young mistakes last year when they saw some things they hadn’t seen before. We’re anticipating that the year of experience and a summer of growth will benefit them. I’ve always said you win from the back-end out and that’s what I hope to see out of our team.”

Impressive forwards The Pats boast an impressive group of forwards, despite the graduation of last year’s 20-year-olds, Brett Leffler and Matt Strueby. Among them are some top-end NHL prospects, and they’ve also brought in a pair of WHL vets for

depth in Dane Muench (Swift Current) and Jesse Hall (Brandon). “Up front, Jordan Weal (L.A.), Garett Mitchell (Washington) and Carter Ashton (Tampa Bay) are the staple of the group,” Hunt continues. “We have a 20year-old leader in Cass Mappin coming back. The pieces are in place, and really it’s about managing it the right way and getting guys to play outside their comfort zones. We’d like to get off to a fast start.” The Pats held their training camp in thebrand new Cooperators Centre at Evraz Place, and hosted both their annual Blueand-White intrasquad game and first preseason game (a 5-2 victory over Moose Jaw) in the facility before moving to their regular home, the Brandt Centre. Regina opened its season September 24 at Brandon and hosted the Wheat Kings in the 2010 home-opener on Sunday, September 26.

Expert Advice: Sports & Wellness

Skate Fitting Jordan Brisebois, B.Sc. Extreme Hockey and Sport 1425 McIntyre St. (306) 721.8326 www.extremehockey.net

xtreme Hockey and Sport prides itself on its knowledge, training and ability to adequately fit customers for their skating needs. Primarily, the foundation for properly fitting skates has five dimensions: • Foot length; • Foot width at the ball and heel; • Foot depth from the inferior/posterior part of the heel to the anterior/superior junction of the ankle bone; • Foot structure/balance point (supination, neutral or pronation and high-, medium- or low-arch structure); and • Foot anomalies such as bone spurs, differing contra-lateral foot sizes, additional digits, club feet, differing contra-lateral leg lengths or different maladies such as tenosynovitis (lace bite), recurring blisters, lacerations and fused talo-calcaneal junctions.

192

| Autumn 2010

The skate-fitting process is the most important in the fitting of your hockey equipment. Extreme uses the following process with all ages and skill level to ensure skates fit properly: A simple hello and exchange of names is the first step in developing a positive relationship with our customers. Next, a foot inspection is done, taking an anterior, side and posterior view of the foot while noting any anomalies, length, width and structure. Following initial inspections, a sizing brannock is used to obtain a rough estimate of the width and length of the foot. Once your size and price point is determined, the sales associate suggests the best models to try. He/she advises what each suggested brand will offer for your needs. You may try on many different skates to determine which fit properly and feel the best.

After the selection is made, skates are heated four to six minutes in a specialized oven and placed back on the feet for proper moulding. Once the final decision is made (based on which skate feels best after proper moulding) a skate-sharpening specialist will put the right edge on the skates. We can provide extras, including blade alignment (a technique where the holder and steel of the skate are moved towards the inside or outside of the boot to help alleviate pronation or supination) and blade profiling: known as placing a “rocker” on the skates, this helps properly place the right amount of blade on the ice for your skating style and body type. Graf and Sidas also offer a custom footbed program which allows an insert to be specially moulded for any foot type and shape.

Autumn 2010

| 192

Discover Saskatchewan There are world-class destinations, sites and adventures to discover right here at home BY MEAGEN THOMAS

estination tourism is a buyer’s market right now. Airlines, tour companies, and cruise lines are selling excursions and fares at some of the lowest rates ever. The upside? No destination from the beaches of Fiji to the Fjords of Norway is out of financial reach for most people. The downside? By leaving we’re passing up the world-class adventure, spectacular vistas and unique ecology in our own backyard.

Athabasca Sand Dunes Wilderness Provincial Park Courtesy of Tourism Saskatchewan/J.F. Bergeron/Enviro Foto

Travellers from around the world are discovering Saskatchewan. Why shouldn’t you? There are features, locales, ecological zones and nature areas that rank among the best in Canada and, indeed, the world. Saskatchewan-based travel authors and photographers Robin and Arlene Karpan, Brent Wagner of the Saskatchewan South West Tourism Association, Whitney Bacon of the of Saskatchewan Southeast Tourism Associ-

ation and the staff of the East Central Tourism Association recently shared their picks with me for the best places to be and to see in the north, south, east and west.

North stars Hands-down, Saskatchewan’s most unique destination has to be the Athabasca Sand Dunes. The most northerly dunes in the world, they’re not a desert per se, since deserts don’t typically feature rivers and forests, but the region’s unique ecology makes it one of the world’s most unusual ecological areas. “It’s unique; there’s no where else like in the nation or really anywhere on earth,” says Karpan. “That combination of sand and water and trees just makes for some completely awesome sights.” Due to its remoteness (you can get there only by air or boat) there’s a good chance you’ll have this designated World Heritage Site all to yourself when you arrive. Consider discovering the north the same way early travellers did—by canoe. Clearwater River is one of Saskatchewan’s most scenic and spectacular waterways, Karpan says. “My favourite section is downstream from where the access road crosses it. There, you encounter waterfalls, canyons and rapids, one spectacular feature after another,” Karpan

Autumn 2010

| 195

short portages. The entire route takes between seven to 10 hours to paddle, but is much more enjoyable when stretched into an overnight trip. Come in winter and tour coureurs de boisstyle via dogsled. Private companies, located just north of the park in Waskesiu, offer tours ranging from one hour to multi-day (and night) intensive, hands-on trips. Fun programs, like one company’s Puppy Camp, are a blast for the whole family. Head a tad southeast for more family fun, in some of the prettiest country you’ll lay eyes on. Lakes and trees abound, and so do the means to enjoy them. One of Saskatchewan’s top five golf courses, the Evergreen Golf Club, is in Nipawin, and Nipawin is in the heart of some of the best hunting, fishing and camping anywhere in the province. A few hours further southeast will bring you to Duck Mountain Provincial Park. The park is an oasis, a green jewel of boreal forest and lakes set in the southern golden grain belt. Come back in winter and head for the hills— the ski hills, that is. Kamsack’s Duck Mountain Ski area is a blast of icy-hot pure fun.

Cowboy country “If I had to pick just one place, it would be Grasslands National Park,” says Saskatchewan Southwest Tourism Association marketing director Brent Wagner. “There are stunning vistas: you can see pretty much forever and it’s so serene in some places you might feel like the last people left on earth.” Drive yourself through this vast prairie landscape or experience it 1880s-style with a wagon ride guided by genuine cowboys.

196

| Autumn 2010

They’ll even treat you to genuine “cowboy Eastern treasures coffee,” and along the way you’ll get to meet Southeastern Saskatchewan is yesterday lots of the park’s staff, many of whom are country. The North West Mounted Police local residents. If you’re especially fortunate, walked, stumbled and dragged their wagons you’ll even be treated to a cowgirl serenade. through on their way west. Before them, If you develop a hankerin’ for city life, you Canada’s first people literally left their mark can find as friendly a town as you could ever on this landscape, with inscriptions and aniwant in Val Marie, and the fare at the Star mal carvings that we can still enjoy today at Café in nearby Maple Creek is as original and La Roche Percée Historic Site near Estevan. upscale as any you’d get in a big city. It’s also today country, where the delights of Add Big Muddy Badlands to the destination live entertainment, casinos, water parks and list, too. The last ice age left an impression on golf courses find a niche against the forest Saskatchewan, literally. Glacial meltwater tore backdrop of Moose Mountain Provincial a gash in the land, leaving behind unlikely and Park. strange formations, including Castle Butte, a 60-metre-high sandstone sentinel shaped by “There are bike trails, a very nice beach, exeons of erosion. It was a hot destinacellent camping—it’s a nice place to go betion 150 years ago, too—a hide-out CouCanoeing, Clearwat er rtesy of To urism Sas River Provincial P for outlaws, and a refuge for Sioux ark katchew an/David Buckley after the Battle of Little Big Horn. “There were scores of bank and train robbers, horse thieves and killers running loose back in the day, and they came to Big Muddy to hide out,” Wagner says. “This part of Saskatchewan is full of some of our most interesting history.” Come nightfall, explore the skies in two of Canada’s largest dark-sky preserves at Grasslands National Park and Cypress Hills Provincial Park. “The star gazing out there is beyond compare: nothing to block view from horizon to horizon,” Wagner says.

Autumn 2010

| 196

cause it’s truly got something for everyone,” says Saskatchewan South East Tourism Association marketing director Whitney Bacon. In addition to Moose Mountain, Bacon recommends spending quality time in the Qu’Appelle Valley. “The Katepwa, Mission, Echo and Pasqua Lake are all along the Qu’Appelle Valley, and each is more beautiful than the last,” Bacon says. Driving Highway 56 on the north side of Katepwa Lake is one of the most rewarding road trips you’ll experience in Saskatchewan. Scenic? You bet: it’s like nothing else, anywhere else.

Staycationing with style Congratulations! This year’s vacation could be a world-beater. That said, do your homework and get a game plan in place before venturing out into the wilds, be it deep into bear country or the rough of your new favourite golf resort. Book ahead, too: Saskatchewan is attracting international buzz, and don’t be surprised if you’re not the only visitor “from away” at the Inn. Above all, ensure you take enough time to enjoy your destination. With so much to see and do in every locale, you’ll want to savour every moment. And if you can’t get it all in, well, there’s always next year, right?

197

| Autumn 2010

Duck Mountain Provincial Park Courtesy of Tourism Saskatchewan Paul Austring

At home in Fort Qu’Appelle Fourth-generation hardware store turns dreams of a new home into realityBY KARIN MELBY BY SHEENA KOOPS

ort Qu’Appelle is a small town, but the people of this resort community are at home with big dreams. In fact, their dreams are bigger than a house; they have dreams the size of a home, and the people at Hanson Home Hardware have made it their business to bring home-dreams to life.

New-home construction “We have people walk in all the time, pricing things out, and lots of inquiries,” says Andrew Hanson, son of third-generation owner Don Hanson. Andrew continues, “The process is straight-forward. We sit down for a consultation. We find out what you want.” Clients often start with Home Hardware’s popular Beaver Homes and Cottages Design Book, which includes bungalows, recreational, split-entry, multi-storey and multifamily homes, and even loft garages. Andrew says, “Next we find out what involvement you want from us; do you want us to just supply the materials, or to supply and do the building for you?” Andrew isn’t the only one on the front lines; the other Andrew, Andrew Nance (co-

198

| Autumn 2010

owner), Mark Hanson (cousin), and Don Hanson (owner and dad), are Hanson Home Hardware’s consultants, who walk with homebuilders every step of the way. Once a family decides on the general design, they may rearrange the layout to meet their needs, and Home Hardware’s architects will make it work for them. Hanson Home Hardware is the only business in Fort Qu’Appelle which carries the Canadian Home Buyer’s industry-standard New Home Warranty. This is especially important to first-time home builders; the banks will not give first-time home builders a loan unless the builder is a New Home Warranty builder. “Lots of people like the turn-key option,” says Andrew Hanson. “With one person handling the job there are less variables, less question marks.” With Hanson Home Hardware as general contractor, customers enjoy streamlined communication, scheduling and timelines, which keep costs in check. Andrew says, “We support the local subtrades, who in turn are very loyal to us. We feed their business and they stick to our timelines.” With three to four construction crews

on the job, the team at Hanson’s is a welloiled machine.

First-name basis Walking into the Hardware Store on Broadway, Fort Qu’Appelle’s main street, you’ll see employees wearing red uniform shirts, but it’s the smiles and customers greeted by name that catches a big-city visitor off guard. It’s not just Fort Qu’Appelle folk who enjoy the royal treatment, but customers from up and down the lakes: Indian Head, Dysart, Cupar, LeRoss, Southey. As well, cottage owners from British Columbia, across the prairies and the northern United States are busy with things like upgrades, renovations and winterizing. Elaine Hanson (wife of owner Don Hanson) says, “Most Home Hardware stores are in small centres, and they can focus on personalized customer service; that’s our paradigm, rather than the big-box self-serve model.” Andrew Hanson says, “Our customer service level sets us apart. We want that repeat customer, not a one-time deal.”

Four generations strong In 1933, Arthur Hanson bought the local hardware store and named it A.C. Hanson and Sons. Today, the red-roof Hanson Home Hardware signs adorn the main Hardware store on Broadway (housed in a 1910 building across from the stone 1897 Hudson Bay’s department store.) Likewise, the red-roof sign announces a flooring building; the lumber building and supplies as well as lumberyards sprawl nearly a block behind the main store. Elaine Hanson says, “We’d love more space. Space is at a premium.” Every progressive business has a succession plan, and the fourth-generation Hanson, Andrew, is being groomed for Hanson Home Hardware’s future. Andrew, who currently manages the lumberyard, has completed his second year of Journeyman Carpentry Apprenticeship with SIAST. As well, he is a residential estimator; he can take your blue prints and bring back a supplies package and quote. Although he did take over a year of Arts and Sciences at the University of Regina, he is currently training on the job, or, as he likes to say, “The University of Don Hanson.” He laughs and adds, “I’ve planted my foot in the business and am very excited about it.” His proud mom, Elaine, adds, “He’s a people person and extremely creative.” In fact, Andrew’s first toy was a set of wooden building blocks, and then he moved on to Legos. Elaine says, “He used to build forts and he’d never build the same thing twice. We even photographed them because they were so original.” Andrew laughs and says, “Guess I’m still following my childhood dream.”

At home Building a house is one thing: building a home is another. At Hanson Home Hardware they know the difference; as independent owners and community members, they are “Home Owners helping homeowners.” They take dreams and make them reality. They take customers and turn them into friends. They take a family work ethic and turn it into four generations of business. They take materials for a house and build a home. It’s no wonder that everyone who walks under the Hanson and Nance families’ signature red roof feels right at home.

Hanson Home Hardware 190 Broadway Street Fort Qu’Appelle, SK (306) 332-5212

PHOTOS BY KRIS BRANDHAGEN

Elaine adds, “We’ve had a loyal customer base with us for years, sometimes generations.”

Christ mas in Oct ober

Christmas in October Moose Jaw’s downtown business district turns holiday stress into exciting celebration BY TRILBY HENDERSON

oose Jaw’s downtown business district will once again turn the stress of holiday shopping into an exciting, joyous celebration with the annual “Christmas in October” weekend kickoff. Beginning on Thursday evening, October 21, the highly anticipated event will draw thousands of people to Moose Jaw’s historic core for a holiday experience they’re sure to remember. “It’s all about trying to get people excited about Christmas and thinking about coming to Moose Jaw to do their shopping,” says Yvette Moore, founder of the event. Often, when people think of Christmas shopping, they picture battling large crowds and long line-ups while searching malls and big-box stores for the elusive perfect gift. Christmas in October offers a completely different experience, where visitors can enjoy a visual wonderland while crossing off their Christmas shopping lists with some of the most unique merchandise in the province. Leading up to the grand start, Moose Jaw’s downtown shopping district will be transformed into a holiday extravaganza complete with Christmas lights, music and eye-catching seasonal window displays. Shoppers will be invited to take advantage of extended store hours, featured products and sales and an array of special touches designed to make Christmas shopping memorable and fun.

Launched by Yvette Moore Moore, a well-known artist and owner of the Yvette Moore Gallery in Moose Jaw, launched the Christmas in October event 20 years ago as a way to showcase her own art. At the time, Moore says, she had come to know many other artisans while showing her work across Western Canada, and decided to extend an invitation to local craftspeople to participate by

Christ mas in Oct ober

displaying their work in her home over the holiday season. “I opened up my own home and redecorated the whole house with their wonderful creations,” she says. “It was just amazing.” Moore hosted Christmas in October out of her home for several years, and found that many visitors made a point of returning year after year. “I remember one year [when] we had over 600 people go through the front doors of my house,” she says. “People were lined up from one street, down the other street and the other street.” At one point, she decided to take a year’s hiatus from the event. She was sitting in her home the weekend Christmas in October would have begun, when two women just walked in. At that point, Moore says she realized just how important it had become. “It was neat to know that it was that much of an event that people continued to want to do it every year,” she says. After the Yvette Moore Gallery opened in 1999, Moore began hosting Christmas in October from the new venue. The event continued to grow as more and more businesses got on board. Today, nearly all of the businesses located in downtown Moose Jaw participate to some extent, she says.

Christmas lights set the mood Some businesses start with late shopping hours on Thursday evening, while others choose to kick off the season Friday morning. However, Moore says the real indication that Christmas in October has begun occurs when the city’s

202

| Autumn 2010

Christmas lights are lit for the first time at 7 p.m. Thursday night. “When those lights turn on, everybody knows that Christmas season has started here in Moose Jaw,” she says. The Yvette Moore Gallery itself has big plans to kick off the Christmas shopping season, says Chantelle Flanagan-Moore, sales and marketing manager. Beginning on Thursday evening at 7 p.m., the gallery will host a candlelit gala complete with fine hors d’ouvres, beverages and music. Flanagan-Moore says many visitors make a true evening out of the event by dressing up and attending with friends. Although there is often a line waiting at the doors when the gala starts, guests will still find that they are able to browse the gallery’s exclusive collections of handmade jewelry, pottery and art at their leisure. The gallery also plans to showcase a new selection of its own food creations, enabling visitors to get a head start

Christ mas in Oct ober on their Christmas baking and food preparation by preordering or purchasing some of the delicious items on display.

A variety of themes Each year, participating businesses select a different holiday-related theme to inspire their decorations and any special activities. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the event, and the 100th anniversary of the building that the gallery is located in, Flanagan-Moore says the gallery’s theme will be “A Vintage Christmas,” depicting Canadian family traditions and the nostalgia of Christmas. This year will have a new twist to it, because the event also falls on the same weekend of Canada’s Snowbirds 40th Anniversary. In celebration of the Canadian Forces’ famous aerobatics team’s anniversary, Yvette will be unveiling a painting and limited-edition prints in honour of the occasion. The gallery will also have a tree decorated to commemorating the Snowbirds’ celebration. Liz Craigen, owner of Cranberry Rose Bou-

tique, says her store plans to present “A Christmas to Remember” as its 2010 theme. “Our boutique transforms into a Christmas wonderland with 12 to 15 designer trees to shop from. This year, [shoppers] will see many different themes and colours of trees, including ivory, taupe, silver, black and traditional greens.” Like many of Moose Jaw’s retail businesses, Cranberry Rose offers a selection of gifts and home décor that are hard, if not impossible, to find elsewhere in the province. For example, the boutique recently introduced a new line of Jag Jeans, endorsed by Oprah as one of her favourite things. While getting a head start on the Christmas list is a great reason to take part in the weekend, Craigen says the Christmas in October kickoff is also an excellent time to shop for the perfect holiday outfit for all of the Christmas parties and celebrations one plans to attend.

Historic downtown is the key Moore says they have received requests from other communities who want to know exactly what they are doing and how they have had so much success with the event. Part of the reason, she says, is because Moose Jaw’s historic downtown provides the perfect setting for creating a festive holiday atmosphere. “The neat thing about Moose Jaw, the reason it does work so well, is because we have this really amazing, unique historical architecture down-

Autumn 2010

| 203

Christ mas in Oct ober

town, which is really quite condensed,” says Moore. “I think that’s what makes it so exciting. It’s a buzz all in one area.” Candace Kirkpatrick, executive director for Tourism Moose Jaw, agrees. “Our downtown is unique and very attractive,” she says, noting that visi-

tors can literally park their vehicles in one location and find themselves within walking distance of everything they need. Although most of the action centers on the downtown core, Kirkpatrick says the event is a great draw for Moose Jaw as a whole. “It brings a

number of people to town,” she says. “We have a number of people who come in here to our Visitor’s Centre asking when it is. They make a trip here every year from Regina, Swift Current, Saskatoon, making sure that they are here for it. It’s just a really good kick start to the season.” Craigen has also noticed that many people plan months in advance in order to visit Moose Jaw during the “Christmas in October” weekend. “They’re always very impressed and it brings them back year after year,” she says. With Moose Jaw’s abundant tourist attractions, spas, restaurants and hotels, not to mention other annual events held that same weekend such as the Whistlestop Craft Show, visitors to the city can easily turn a weekend shopping trip into a fun-filled mini vacation. While the October 21 to 24 weekend is the highlight of “Christmas in October”, the festive environment created will carry on throughout the holiday season. “By the time Christmas comes, we’re all sick of Christmas,” Moore joked. “But we give it a good start,” she says. “We try to make it a little bit more special.”

Affordable elegance Old-world charm, vast selection and quality service set this boutique apart BY TRILBY HENDERSON

et in an atmosphere of old-world charm, there is no better place to find affordable elegance in ladies’ apparel, accessories and home décor than at Moose Jaw’s Cranberry Rose Boutique. Here, customers can shop from a vast selection of items, all designed to cater to their sense of aesthetic beauty and sophistication, and find the perfect piece to make their home or wardrobe complete. Owner Liz Craigen says she tries to create a unique experience for customers by choosing well-made product lines that aren’t available elsewhere in the area. Clothing lines currently available at the boutique include Canadian designs by Frank Lyman, Nueva and Cartise. Cranberry Rose has also recently become an exclusive retailer for Jag Jeans, a comfortable, flattering line of jeans that has even been endorsed by Oprah. While all of the ladies’ apparel has been chosen to reflect the boutique’s high standard for quality and style, the available selection ranges from casual, comfortable wear designed for

206

| Autumn 2010

relaxing at home to more formal outfits fit for the mother of a bride or groom, or for a wedding guest. The boutique also carries a wide selection of ladies’ business attire.

Perfect time for a new outfit With Christmas just around the corner, Craigen says now is the perfect time to begin searching for a new outfit to wear to the numerous parties and get-togethers held over the holiday season. “Our ladies’ boutique will meet the needs of everyone on your Christmas list,” she says. Popular trends for the season include dresses featuring “glamour and glitz,” garments with faux-fur trim, and adding a scarf or pair of boots to an outfit to change the look, she says. With so much to choose from, even the most seasoned shopper may find the task of selecting the perfect outfit daunting. Fortunately, the staff at the Cranberry Rose

Boutique provide their customers with a high level of personal service by helping them to choose items that both look and feel good. “We give personalized customer service to help them pick their outfit and their accessories, right down to shoes and purses designed by Luv Shoes, so that they can walk out the door totally dressed and complete for their special occasion,” says Craigen. In addition to clothing and accessories, the boutique also offers a selection of homedécor items ranging from framed artwork to accent chairs, lamps and candelabras. Craigen says the boutique recently introduced a new line of Black Pearl skin care, made in Israel. The products are made using 100-percentnatural ingredients, including minerals derived from the Dead Sea, and have become a very popular item, she says. The boutique also plans to introduce Fruits & Passions, a great line of body lotions, shower gels and Christmas gift sets of many fragrances.

Like everything else it does, the Cranberry Rose Boutique knows how to celebrate the holidays in style. From October 21 to 24, visitors to the boutique will be greeted with stunning visual displays, festive beverages and treats, and daily sales specials as the store joins fellow downtown businesses in kicking off the holiday season with the annual “Christmas in October” event. The boutique will extend its hours for the weekend, remaining open until 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. “Every day throughout the open house, we will be offering a selected Christmas promotion at half price,” says Craigen. In celebration of the event, Cranberry Rose will also offer customers a chance to win special gifts in several draws held throughout the weekend. Craigen says she and her staff spend months preparing for Christmas in October, as it is always their busiest weekend of the year. This year, Cranberry Rose has chosen to present the theme “A Christmas to Remember,” once again giving customers a head start on holiday shopping in an environment that fully embraces the hustle, bustle and beauty of the season. Among the boutique’s most eye-catching displays will be the 12 to 15 Christmas trees located throughout the store. Each tree is ornamented with a different colour theme, ranging from the traditional to the truly unique. Some of the colour combinations chosen for 2010 include royal blue with black and silver, plum and taupe, copper and brown, and chartreuse and traditional red. In addition to boosting the festive atmosphere in the store, Craigen says the trees also serve as an inspiration to customers who are looking to change or update their own Christmas décor. “Customers will often find a new colour to add to their decorations and change the look of their tree,” says Craigen. “By purchasing just a few decorations, you can create a whole new look.”

Specially selected merchandise While all regular items remain available, each display is adorned with new, specially selected merchandise that both complements the year’s theme and reflects seasonal trends. The newly added merchandise will include new lighting décor, such as chandeliers and lamps, as well as seasonal products, such as nativity scenes and candleholders. “We will have brought in a lot of new home décor to make your home look spectacular for the holidays,” says Craigen. Christmas at Cranberry Rose will continue throughout the holiday season for customers who are unable to join in the weekend festivities or simply want to return to shop some more, says Craigen. No matter when customers choose to begin their Christmas shopping this year, the Cranberry Rose Boutique is an excellent place to start. Cranber r y Rose Bou tiqu e 316 Main St. N. Moose Jaw 693- 7779 Toll- free: 1- 877- 693- 7779 cranber r yr ose@sasktel.n et www.cran ber r yrose.com

TRASHY MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

Christmas in October

A breath of fresh design

Scale, balance, texture, colour, rhythm: a mantra for beautyBY SHEENA KOOPS

ou’re up by 6 a.m. for your workout, then you’re getting kids out the door, eating breakfast on the run, making it to work early to plan a surprise party for a colleague. A power lunch is followed by meetings, then the rush home to make supper before the evening activities begin. It’s no wonder our busy lives leave us feeling worn. Now, take a deep breath and repeat these words: scale, balance, texture, colour, rhythm. These are Jillian’s words, slow-down words, breathe-in-and-out words, a mantra for beauty. A Saturday stroll down Moose Jaw’s historic High Street, with a stop at 14 East, will bring you into Jillian’s words, “to enlighten, inspire and empower the potential in individuals and their space by creating art through interior design and décor.” Outside leaves are falling, and inside Jillian’s boutique, Lampe Berger products waft the season’s subtle odours of pumpkin spice and orange cinnamon. Your eyes eat up the

208

| Autumn 2010

colour scheme: black on white with a splash of lime green; you gaze upward at the 12foot ceilings, original mouldings and pillars. Texture is everywhere, and you let your fingers delight over baby blankets and concrete sculptures, matt-stone vases and reflective mirrored furniture, leather purses and bling jewellery. Soft-but-upbeat music fills the space as naturally as the light through the large southfacing windows. You sip hot apple cider and nibble a baked goody celebrating Christmas in October. I don’t know about you, but I feel better already.

Dream come true “I’d always wanted to own a boutique,” says Jillian Bilawchuk, who holds a degree in human ecology from the University of Alberta, with a double minor in marketing and design. She continues, “When I moved back

to Moose Jaw to work in interior decorating, I realized there was a niche market for contemporary design. Rather than waiting, I decided to jump in with both feet.” In 2007, Jillian opened Jillian’s Design Elements at the age of 23. She was promptly nominated for two Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards and gained the title of Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2008. Her budding company was also nominated for an ABEX award and she was a finalist for 2008 Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Saskatchewan. Jillian does not take personal credit for her success, but rather, says it is a group effort. She says, “My staff is really good about sitting down and suggesting colours, accessories, arrangements, groupings and vignettes.” Jillian’s team, including Kirsten and Charlene, want to give people a memorable shopping experience, above and beyond the norm. “We want to develop great customer

Helping people Brenda Simpson has worked with Jillian’s Design Elements in both her home and her family’s business. Brenda says, “I like how Jillian is able to put things together for you, tones, colours, and incorporates textures and accessories. I can’t visualize things; she can.” She adds, “Jillian’s business is something we needed in Moose Jaw. She creates the complete look, taking it beyond the paint swatches. We can go to the store and view their on-line resources, and then we can order customized. I couldn’t have done my renovations without her.” Jillian says, “Environment is really important to us, to help people create in their home the environment they desire.” Local customers like Brenda (as well as clients from Regina, Saskatoon and everywhere in between) assure Jillian there is nothing corny about helping people. In fact, Jillian is kept so busy helping people she has had to hire two new consultants, bringing 30 years of experience in home construction and décor. With the birth of her first child in 2010, Jillian is happy to share the workload with her growing staff. She says, “I want people to have confidence in my staff, and I’m proud to be able to refer them to my new consultants. Barb Klein has been in retail her entire life, first as a partner in Clothes Encounters and then as owner of Flower Pots. Barb has a great eye and is extremely attentive to detail.” The second consultant, Karen Bookout, who also happens to be Jillian’s mother, says, “I can’t think of anyone else in the world I would like to work with more than my daughter.” Jillian adds, “She has incredible style and vision when it comes to decorating and gardening.”

I love it all Although Jillian has taken time away from her business to be at home with her baby, she remains keenly involved in the boutique. She says, “Vangogh is a personal favourite for custom furniture as it is Canadian-made; the quality is exceptional, and because it is all custom-made, it is a designer’s dream to work with.” Vangogh offers upholstered pieces in a variety of designs with more than 300 fabric choices. Likewise, Sunpan Imports provides individual

CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

relationships. In fact, many of our repeat customers become our friends.” When asked what she enjoys most about her business, Jillian says, “Selfishly, I love the experience of creating something new, a new experience or a new look. I enjoy helping people, and at the end of the day, if it’s a piece of jewellery or colours for their home, and if it enriches their lives, we’ve done what we set out to do.” She laughs and adds, “It may sound corny, but we really want to help people.”

Inspiration Jillian says, “Clients come in to the store for inspiration, to have a break. One woman comes in here all the time, not to buy anything, but to just look. She came in a while ago and said, ‘I’ve been writing an essay and I’m just stuck, and I needed to come in to rejuvenate.’ That’s what we’re about: I love she came to us for inspiration.” Jillian is an inspiration, not only in decorating, but in her community as well. Partnering with Benjamin Moore and independent home builders Tamco Homes, Jillian executed and supplied the 2009 Ronald McDonald Charity Home in Regina. The word “inspiration” comes from the Latin root spirare, “to breathe.” So, don’t wait until Saturdays to spirit away into Jillian’s Design Elements. End that meeting 30 minutes earlier, take a longer lunch…because with growing clientele, growing inventory, growing staff, and recognition from Moose Jaw and area business community, the team at Jillian’s Design Elements is ready to help you rejuvenate; ready to inspire you in scale, balance, texture, colour, and rhythm. And when your home or office turns into a masterpiece, you can pat yourself on the back and give Jillian and her staff a little wink next time you breeze into the boutique. Take a deep breath, relax and enjoy.

Jill ian’s Design El em ent s 14 High St. E. Moose Jaw 693-0673 www.jill iansdesignelements.com

210

| Autumn 2010

CAPTURED BY CASSIDY PHOTOGRAPHY

and contemporary products that never go out of fashion. Wall art, such as metal art and large canvas prints, never stays long in the boutique; concrete sculptures from Vancouver Island artists are ideal for outdoor or indoor prairie décor. Jillian laughs out loud and says, “I love it all. I choose merchandise that I am passionate about and want to share with my customers.” Jillian discusses her business dynamics. “It’s funny how your clientele dictate what type of a store you will be. When I started I was only a home décor store, now I am a gift and home décor store. My clients love our jewellery and purses, which I never even imagined I would carry in the beginning. I had a large part of my store dedicated to selling fabric and bedding, but my clients demanded wall art and accent furniture, and they had little interest in fabric. I have also ventured into baby gifts…perhaps due to having a baby on the brain last year while I was pregnant, and to our surprise, our clientele love it.”

100 years and counting For more than a century, Ottawa Real Estate has been an integral part of Moose Jaw BY SHEENA KOOPS

he CPR train steamed into Moose Jaw in May, 1910. Twenty-three year old Frank McRitchie, enroute to Lethbridge, stepped onto the timber platform to stretch his legs. The prairie city was booming with business, as well as major construction like the brick-works for Central Collegiate on Ross Street. The clang of the fire bell and a team of horses caught McRitchie by surprise. He yelled to his travelling buddies, “I know those horses,” and followed the fire-wagon on foot through the mucky streets. Sure enough, the horses were an Owen Sound team, bought from McRitchie’s hometown. Back at the train station, he said to the bewildered Alberta-bound boys, “I’ll stay here. I’ve found some friends.” “So the story goes,” says grandson Glen McRitchie. “Grandpa worked for a variety of employers, including Grayson’s Law Office as

212

| Autumn 2010

a clerk and the newly established Ottawa Real Estate, and he spent the first winter in a tent on a dare from a buddy.”

Building the community In 1911 young Frank McRitchie, who had shown initiative and business savvy, was invited to join Ottawa Real Estate as a partner. McRitchie also embraced community building, fundraising as Team Captain for causes like Grant Hall. When forest fires left wildanimal orphans, McRitchie organized a rescue and shelter. Perhaps his greatest gift to southern Saskatchewan was the establishment of the Moose Jaw Wild Animal Park in 1929. By the 1930s McRitchie’s company was prospering, providing insurance as well. Today, 100 years and four generations later, Ottawa Real Estate is an integral part of the community of Moose Jaw. “We are the

biggest privately owned property management business in town,” says third generation owner Glen McRitchie. “If you’re looking for an apartment, you pretty much need to check in with us.” Ottawa Real Estate, open six days a week, specializes in more than property management, including residential, farm and resort properties sales; motor license issuing; home, tenant, auto, travel, casualty and health insurance and investments. It offers notary public and commissioner for oaths services, and a bilingual Canada Post outlet. Ottawa Real Estate, an SGI agent, is a one-stop shop.

A family thing Ottawa Real Estate is more than a business: it’s a family thing. After the Second World War, Frank McRitchie’s son, Hubert, took over operation of the company. In 1968, Hu-

Loyal customers Families have been with Ottawa Real Estate for generations, too. Moose Jaw farmer Ronald McDonald says, “Mom and Dad dealt with Ottawa Realty for 60 or 70 years, their entire business lives. I remember going in there as a little guy and being fascinated with the heavy wooden chairs with leather seats, riveted all around the edge, and Hubert and Robert always had wooden toys to keep us entertained. It was an intriguing place even for a little kid.” McDonald is referring to the original building at 26 High St.W., where the company existed from 1910 to 1987. McDonald, a successful farmer, deals with the company for insurance, licensing and land purchases, as well as renting farm land from the McRitchie family. He says, “They have been a very honourable company in Moose Jaw for years, and I’m sure they will be around for years to come.” Glen McRitchie sits behind his desk in Ottawa Real Estate’s modern office at 324 Main St. N. in Moose Jaw. His eyes fix on the two chairs opposite him, heavy wooden chairs with red leather, riveted all the way around; the chairs that have been with Ottawa Real Estate since 1910 are as sturdy, comfortable, and beautiful as ever. Glen considers this 100th anniversary, and can’t help seeing it as a reality check, a time to take stock...but just then a young family comes to the door. Glen stands, motions for them to take a seat, and he smiles. Derek follows with a file in his hand. “I’ve got this one,” he says to his Dad. Derek sits down in Glen’s chair. It’s business as usual at Ottawa Real Estate: 100 years young, four generations, and counting.

TRASHY MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

bert’s son, Glen, was not sure if he wanted join the business after high school. Hubert convinced his son to try it for a year, but mid-way through the trial-year Hubert had a heart attack. This launched young Glen into all aspects of the company. Glen McRitchie says of those early days, “I ended up doing all the books, and I probably wouldn’t have otherwise stayed at the end of that year, but the situation made me get into the business fully.” That was 42 years ago. Glen adds, “I’m thankful. The business has been good to me.” When Glen’s father had to retire for health reasons in the 80s, Glen taught his wife, Daphne, to do the books. Glen says, “Now she does everything: books, payroll, and post office. It would be hard to be here without her.” Glen and Daphne’s son, Derek, has been working with Ottawa Real Estate for eight years. Glen says, “With my son, it was never a question. He always said he was going to work at the office with me.” Derek is prepared for the company’s future, with SIAST training in business administration and marketing as well as top licensing in real estate and insurance brokerage.

Surprisingly unexpected

Skin clinic aims to be one of the most respected cosmetic practices and training facilities in the west BY FLR STAFF

adiant Skin Clinic is surprisingly unexpected! The clinic, which opened its doors for business in the spring of 2010 on Main Street in Moose Jaw, offers medical aesthetic treatments, skin-care advice and educational workshops, and is soon to be a training facility for several equipment manufacturers from all over North America. The professional and caring staff have the training, heart and commitment required to be the best of the best. Owner Amber Cameron is originally from Saskatchewan, but studied her trade in the U.S. She explains, “Currently in Canada the regulations on medical aesthetics and laser technicians are nonexistent or very grey. However, in the 214

| Autumn 2010

U.S. they have much higher standards and guidelines. I made the personal choice to operate at the level of integrity and quality that would pass by American standards with the foresight that Canada will eventually follow suit.”

Unique network and support Not only is the training essential, but the network and support behind the clinic further sets Radiant apart. Having trained in the States, Cameron has a large international network of respected dermatologists/aestheticians to consult with if she runs across something she has not previously encountered. She takes photos, documents the issue, measures and

sends the information to the professional group via email and has a response on the next business day. “If it’s beyond our clinic’s scope, we are happy to source out the proper treatment contact information for you and at least get you pointed in the right direction.” The injection team is a doctor-and-nurse duo. Beyond their medical licenses, these two over-achievers have completed several injection certificate programs. “It’s important to ask how and where your injection specialists have been trained,” says Cameron. “Again, regulations are slowly coming into place in this area, but with these procedures you need to know you are in safe hands. Our entire staff is expected to stay current with licensing

and education in this fast-paced and changing industry.” Cameron will be attending classes this month in Long Beach, Calif., in order to complete her teacher training in time for the first round of classes being offered this October. “It is a blessing beyond my expectations to have the honour of hosting training sessions at our clinic in Moose Jaw!” she admits. “It was a challenge sourcing and importing our unique equipment and completing the operator’s training. I guess the manufacturers heard my suggestions that there is a demand for these certificates in Western Canada and took me up on the offer to provide that facility.”

Fully equipped medical spa Aside from the training centre, Radiant Skin Clinic is a fully staffed and equipped medical spa offering cosmetic injections, laser hair removal, photo facials, chemical peels, fractional resurfacing, skin tag and cherry angioma treatment, micro current facials, dermabrasion and full retail lines of mineral cosmetics, daily skin care products, teeth whitening, sunAutumn 2010

| 215

screen and clarisonic brushes. “Our menu of services and products brought on quite a buzz around Moose Jaw, especially the Botox,” Cameron says. “We’ve treated hundreds of people, from age eight with mosquito-bite scars to age 88 with general aging.

“Our patients are all amazing. They have referred their friends and family and continued to support our new venture with great loyalty. We are overwhelmed at the response. Our number-one source of new patients has become repeats and referrals, which is every business owner’s dream. It indicates happy patients saying good things to others. And for that, we send them gift cards. The value of a referral is something I don’t ignore.” With the tourist season just having passed, the clinic is expanding its client base. “Those we saw in the summer are booking their next appointments with us and bringing their friends with them. Once people experience the atmosphere and the amazing results our staff and equipment provide, they quickly realize it’s worth the drive.”

Restoring self-confidence When asked what it is that she most commonly treats, Cameron says, after a pause, “Mostly insecurity. People come into our clinic, are escorted into the private waiting lounge to fill out some initial paper work, then I take them into a treatment room to discuss their goals. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of marks or blemishes that have created self-consciousness for years, or brought on teasing when they were younger, and these pieces of a person’s life are painful. I wear water proof mascara to work every day just in case I hear a tear-jerker.” She goes on to explain that when working with these people to remove or reduce these areas of concern, a new friendship is the extra bonus. “We are all very committed to our careers and our patients. We take individual ownership and responsibility for each and every treatment we perform.” Radiant Skin Clinic is going for the gold. Its staff members are motivated and excited to grow the clinic into one of the most respected and reputable cosmetic practices and training facilities in western Canada.

Radiant Skin Clinic 570 Main St. N. Moose Jaw 972-SKIN www.radiantskinc linic.ca

Building relationships Personal service, beautiful, unique products make downtown Moose Jaw boutique stand out BY TRILBY HENDERSON

ow in its new location at 328 Main St. in Moose Jaw, The Hibiscus Boutique is bigger and better than ever. Here, customers can browse through an even larger selection of the affordable and unique clothing and accessories the boutique has become known for in a setting designed to turn every shopping outing into a fun and entertaining experience. “I think Moose Jaw has a really amazing downtown core and I love being a part of it. I’m excited to be closer to the heart of that in my new location,” says owner Jackie Nestman. Jackie and her sister, Tracey Kea, came up with the boutique’s unusual moniker while on vacation in Florida prior to opening the business in October 2006. At the time, the sisters decided to get tattoos, each choosing the hibiscus flower for a different reason. As Florida’s state flower, the hibiscus represented the state where Tracey had lived for several years and where her husband and children were from. For Jackie, it

218

| Autumn 2010

was a reminder of the last gift she received from a grandmother who died in a tragic car accident. On the trip home, the sisters decided The Hibiscus Boutique would also be the perfect name for their new venture. When Tracey moved back to Florida a few years later, Jackie continued the business on her own.

No more Mystic Tan Although their original goal for the business was to address the need for a healthier alternative to UV tanning by bringing in Mystic Tan, a sunless spray-tan booth, Jackie decided not to continue Mystic Tan at her new location. Instead, the move will allow her to focus on the boutique side of the business by expanding the variety of well-priced, trendy clothing and accessories the store sells. “The theme for the new store is more eclectic,” she says. “Just bringing together unique and different

things that you wouldn’t necessarily think of putting together to create your own personal style.” The Hibiscus continues to specialize in custom mix-and-match swimsuits and resort wear and remains one of the only stores in Moose Jaw to offer these items year round. It has also expanded its selection of street and career wear, with dresses, tops, boots, belts and more from popular brands such as Lady Dutch, French Connection, Kirsch, Yumi, B&B Couture, Bobi and Anama. Jackie is excited to introduce new lines to the boutique like Fever from London, Beatrice Holloway by House of Spy, Custo from Spain and dresses and tunics from Lavand. The boutique’s assortment of trendy designer jeans and denim include names such as Miss Me, Sixty Nine, Lola and Jackie’s personal favourite, Anoname. “I wear my Anoname jeans all the time,” she says. “I love them.”

Full range of accessories The Hibiscus offers a full range of accessories to help customers further personalize their style. From Landes and Elise M belts to scarves and gloves by Echo or Hue tights and leggings, the possible combinations are endless—and you can add in beautiful sterling-silver jewelry by Canadian artists such as Karyn Chopik, Karen Telio and Soul Flower, as well as handcrafted sterling silver and pewter from South American artisans. Though the Hibiscus Boutique offers customers a tremendous variety to shop from, Jackie says they will not find multiple versions of the same item in the store, and once a particular piece has sold out, it isn’t reordered. By limiting the number of identical products that are sold, she has created an environment where customers can find items that truly express an original sense of style. For Jackie, running the Hibiscus Boutique is about building relationships, not only with her customers but also with the companies with which she chooses to do business. “I really find the connections I build with people to be the most satisfying part of my job,” says Jackie. “Customer service is at the top of my list,” she continues. “One of the things that bring people from Regina or Saskatoon to shop in Moose Jaw is that they get a more personal shopping experience. That’s very flattering to me, because I think relationships are the most important thing.”

Comfortable and relaxed Jackie says customers have always felt comfortable and relaxed while shopping at the Hibiscus Boutique, often dropping jackets and bags to the side while they peruse the items on display, or using the back corner of the store as an impromptu dressing room when they find something they really love and can’t wait to try on. She has designed the new location to capitalize on this experience by including a larger, open fitting-room area, complete with benches, where friends and fellow shoppers can visit while they try on clothes. Jackie also plans to hold more personal shopping parties at the new store, where customers are treated to refreshments while they shop and staff can provide an even greater level of individual service by helping them find clothing and accessories that look great on them. “It is very satisfying when I help customers find an ensemble that makes them feel and look good,” Jackie says. “I’m never going to tell somebody that an outfit looks good on them if I really don’t think it does. I just don’t agree with that. I want customers to leave my store happy with their purchases.”

TRASHY MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

Jackie has also expanded the selection of footwear at the boutique with designs by American company Miz Mooz, and European brands Fly London and Eject, whose products are made of Portuguese leather. “All of my footwear is fun, funky, and fashionable, but also very comfortable,” she says.

Beautiful and healthy Moose Jaw factory and gallery offers superior line of all-natural candles and body products BY FLR STAFF

oug and Cheryl Spicer created Willow Tree Collections 10 years ago. Years of experimentation, design and fabrication have resulted in a beautiful, superior quality line of natural, vegetable soybean candles and bath, body and spa products. Born and raised in Saskatchewan, Doug and Cheryl moved their children and their Art Glass business to Kelowna, B.C. in the late 1980s. With 10 years’ experience as glass artists, the Spicers were well received when they introduced their unique glass products to the Okanagan. For years, they were Saskatchewan artisans, showcasing their varied works at juried exhibitions and shows. A highlight in their glass career was Expo 86, where they demonstrated and showcased their products at the Saskatchewan Pavilion.Following their move to Kelowna, they

220

| Autumn 2010

established an interior design company, specializing in closet storage design and finishing, as well as continuing their glass art business. In Kelowna, the Spicers operated a glass art studio and gallery, where they taught the art of stained glass and showcased their many glassworks, from stained glass and fused glass to sand carving. Many homes, facilities and businesses throughout the Okanagan area now display their works.

From glass to wax During one of their studio classes, a student suggested that one of their fusedglass vases would make a perfect candleholder. Inspired by this thought, Doug and Cheryl began to experiment with wax. Their wax candles quickly became sought-after by their many students

and gallery customers. Like increasing numbers of former Saskatchean residents, they chose to return to their roots, so they could be with their family. Doug says, “We couldn’t convince all of them to move to us, so we came home to our families.” When Doug and Cheryl returned to Saskatchewan in 1999, they purchased the well-remembered Mom’s Café in Belle Plaine, a quiet little town between Moose Jaw and Regina, where they chose to re-establish their Saskatchewan glass business with their added line of candles. Troubled by visible soot lining their fine glass vases, Doug developed a clean-burning, vegetable soy wax formula that leaves glass free of greasy black soot and residue. Years of experimenting resulted in an “allnatural” beautiful-burning candle with no

Healthy body products Following the introduction of their wax formula, and with growing demand for their candles, dedicated customers sought and requested healthy alternatives to body products. As a result, the Spicers began the unintentional development of a quality body-product line. One year following their move to Belle Plaine, the Spicers recognized that their product line was growing and their customer base expanding. Needing a larger facility, they moved to Moose Jaw and established their factory and gift gallery at 240 High St. W. As Doug and Cheryl resourced alternatives to existing products, they researched naturalbased ingredients and developed a quality line of bath and body products , a wonderful collection with ingredients that people are demanding, without the use of harsh, chemically derived additives. All Willow Tree Collections body products are not only made, but also bottled, in an ecofriendly manner. They list all the ingredients on the bottles. Doug and Cheryl’s client base continues to grow, and Willow Tree Collections has attracted interest from around the globe. The candles and body products are sold to stores, spas and gift shops throughout Canada. With the growing demand, Willow Tree is becoming a familiar name in homes everywhere, with a full range of bath, body and spa products ranging from creams and lotions to hair and foot care. Willow Tree utilizes Dead Sea salts in all dry products, from bath bombs to champagne bath minerals and pure Dead Sea salts in many sizes. A recent addition to the product line is Bugs Away Body Mist, a mosquito spray that is all-

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

chemical additives and no carcinogens. “Nothing in our candles is harmful,” Cheryl says. “They are simply beautiful and, in fact, healing. If you rub our candle wax into your feet it will aid in soothing and relieving dry and cracked heels.” The timing was right, with their new formula for natural candles coming at the same time as the public became more attuned to healthy products. As time goes on, more people are realizing the benefits of quality, natural candles, including: • Water soluble—easy soap-and-water cleanup; • Cotton- and paper-core wicks—no metal is used in the wicks; • Plant-based aromas—no harsh chemicals; • Longer-burning—up to 50 percent longer than other candles in the marketplace. For example, Willow Tree votive candles burn 18 to 20 hours each!

Saunas As a natural extension of its other products, Willow Tree Collections is a dealer for Far North Wellness Infrared Saunas. Far North Saunas builds the highest-quality infrared saunas available. Infrared saunas differ from traditional saunas because they operate at a temperature of 30 to 60 degrees C, compared to a traditional sauna, which operates from 85 to 110 degrees C. This allows you to be able to breathe comfortably and enjoy the benefits for extended periods of time. Because the infrared rays safely and comfortably penetrate the skin up to two inches, even your organs and deep tissues are stimulated. This induces two to three times as much sweating as a conventional sauna. Far infrared rays are completely safe, naturally occurring and beneficial to the human body. They are so safe that doctors use them in hospitals for newborn babies. The Spicers say that after extensive research, they decided to only offer a sauna that they could stand behind for a lifetime. Come to Willow Tree in Moose Jaw and enjoy the relaxing ambience the gallery evokes. The gallery is a joy to shop in for personal use and for gifts for others, and continues to showcase the art glass and a wide variety of unique gifts. From the products to the people who make and promote them, there is a comfortable presence that is unique to Willow Tree. It is obvious to all who visit that the staff at Willow Tree truly love the work they do and the results their products offer to others. “We’re pleased to see that people are starting to demand change in the products they use in their homes,” says Cheryl. “Although natural products can be higher in cost initially, almost all people making the change are finding that it is more cost-effective in every way. Aside from the obvious benefits, our natural product line offers excellent value, as Willow Tree candles burn longer and our body products require less to offer beautiful results.”

Building a better future The Spicers can be counted on to continue to put emphasis on the things that matter, while eliminating the use of harsh ingredients. Through their innovation and effort, Doug and Cheryl Spicer hope to continue that

222

| Autumn 2010

PHOTOS BY TRASH MY DRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

natural with the most pleasant aroma. This non-sticky product is safe for children and pets. Doug and Cheryl have been pleased to see the overwhelming response to this product as people spread the news and are now enjoying it everywhere.

change process, ensuring a better, cleaner, healthier future. The factory and gift gallery are open Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit the online store at www.willowtreecollection.com, and while there, join the email list to receive online promotions and newsletters. At the annual Christmas in October event, opening Thursday, October 21, everyone who purchases $100 worth of merchandise will receive a beautiful gift. The first 25 to spend $100 or more will receive one more! This promotion is also available to online customers, and will be posted to the website in early October.

W illow Tr ee Collections 240 High S t. W. Moose Jaw Toll-free : 1-877-345-2269 w ww.willowtre ecollection.com

A store filled with stories Antiques and artifacts offer fascinating, beautiful glimpses of the past BY CARTER HAYDU

Every antique has its own rich story. So does every antique dealer.

Four years ago, having travelled North America and Europe, Richard Marlow came to visit relatives in the city of his birth. Although he had left Moose Jaw more than half a century earlier, Marlow knew he was home. “That very day I bought a house. I moved to Moose Jaw three months later,” he says. However, Marlow didn’t arrive from Edmonton all alone. He brought boxes and boxes of antique treasures and trinkets the avid collector had accumulated over a lifetime. “I had a basement full of stuff that was just too good to put in garage sales.” For years Marlow lived in his Moose Jaw home with his relics, unsure what to do with them all. Finally, upon the advice of a friend, he ordered a shipment of European furniture and, in January, opened his own antique store—Marlow’s OV Olde. “I unpacked all my boxes and unpacked my container and started into business.”

A mosaic of artifacts Located at 79 High St. W. in Moose Jaw, Marlow’s OV Olde is a mosaic of interesting artifacts and antique furniture, including Moorcroft pottery, 1925 candlesticks, 1920 Royal Doulton vases, several unique display cabinets and old tables dating back to the 1800s. “Oh, and I can't forget a set of German fish plates, all hand painted and over 100 years old!” says Marlow. According to Marlow, each item in his store has its particular charm. As a piece of furniture or other household item ages, he says, it accumulates a sense of antiquity called “patina,” which must never be polished

away or otherwise disrupted. “The immediate thing I can think of is an old pipe. If somebody uses a pipe for 30 or 40 years, it’s worn and discoloured and that’s what the patina is,” he says, adding that such character is part of what makes antiques valuable—it’s their story. Marlow’s own story doesn’t end in Moose Jaw. As much as he loves his business and the city therein, the antique fanatic is pursuing a new dream in the months ahead.

Adventure ahead “I’m planning on buying a barge and sailing the canals and rivers of France,” he says, adding Europe has some of the most beautiful antiques in the world, making it the ideal adventure destination for a 64-year-old treasure hunter. Therefore, at the end of September, Marlow is selling all his Moose Jaw goods at reduced prices. His store is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, call 6840706 or visit www.marlowsovolde.com. Marlow’s OV Olde 79 High St. W. Moose Jaw 684-0706 www.marlowsovolde.com

Autumn 2010

| 223

You could go to Thailand... but

Moose Jawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much closer.