FineLifestyles Regina Fall 2011

FineLifestyles REGINA

FALL 2011 || VOLUME 3, ISSUE 3

Saskatchewan’s Own

In Her Beverly Hills Mansion

REGINA’S TORNADO HUNTER CHEF MICHAEL SMITH RECIPES ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE MOOSE JAW - CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER

SPECIAL WEDDING FEATURE

THANK YOU REGINA!

Mercedes-Benz is Regina’s #1 premium luxury car brand and winner of the 2010 Star Dealer Award for Canada.

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125 Years of Innovation: 4MATIC™ First introduced in 1986, our award winning

Enjoy a $1,250 anniversary credit on the C-Class Special Edition.

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system offers optimal traction and handling control under any road conditions by

An offer 125 years in the making.

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LEASE A.P.R. BASED ON A 48-MONTH LEASE

3.9%

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1.9%*

C 250 4MATIC ™ SPECIAL EDITION ANNIVERSARY CREDIT

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MONTHLY PAYMENTS WITH DOWN PAYMENT OF $3,900

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LEASE A.P.R. BASED ON A 48-MONTH LEASE

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1.9%*

ToTo learn more visitvisit mercedes-benz.ca/c learn more mercedes-benz.ca/c

C-CLASS SPECIAL EDITION

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EQUIPMENT VALUE1

C 250 SPECIAL EDITION ANNIVERSARY CREDIT

$1,250

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MONTHLY PAYMENTS WITH DOWN PAYMENT OF $3,875

$358

*

LEASE A.P.R. BASED ON A 48-MONTH LEASE

3.9%

*

FINANCE FINANCE A.P.R. UP TO 60 MONTHS

1.9%*

C 250 4MATIC ™ SPECIAL EDITION ANNIVERSARY CREDIT

$1,250

LEASE

MONTHLY

$408

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LEASE A.P.R.

3.9%

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FINANCE FINANCE

1.9%*

PAYMENTS WITH and finance offers based on aBASED ON C 250 Special Edition/C 250 A.P.R. 11 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. 1Savings calculated on MSRP of the Special Edition Package options less dealer discount. Total price of a new 2011 C 250 Special Edition/C 250 4MATIC™ Special Edition is $38,800/$42,800. *Lease new 2011 4MATIC™ Special Edition available only through Mercedes-Benz Financia DOWN PAYMENT A 48-MONTH UP TO ces on approved credit for a limited time. Monthly payment and total obligation for lease and finance offers are calculated applying the $1,250 anniversary credit. Lease example based on $358/$408 per month for 48/48 months. Down payment or equivalentLEASE trade of $3,875/$3,900 plus security OF $3,900 60deposit MONTHS of $400/$500 and applicable taxes due at lease inception. MSRP ng at $38,800/$42,800. Lease A.P.R. of 3.9%/3.9% applies. Total obligation is $21,462/$23,990. 18,000 km/year allowance ($0.20/km for excess kilometres applies). Finance example is based on a 60-month term and a finance A.P.R. of 1.9%/1.9% and an MSRP of $38,800/$42,800. Monthly payment is $580/$638 (excluding taxes) with $3,590/$4,280 down payment uivalent trade in. Cost of borrowing is $1,626/$1,789 for a total obligation of $38,376/$42,539. Freight/PDI (up to $1,995 - dealer may charge less), licence, insurance, registration, taxes, EHF Tire, Filter and Battery fees, “green levyâ€? and similar taxes levied on the manufacturer (if charged by the dealer) and PPSA are extra. Additional provincial specific fees, taxes harges may be extra. Dealer may lease or finance for less. Offers may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Some vehicles shownmercedes-benz.ca/c with optional equipment available at extra cost. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for details or call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Relations Centre at 1-800-387-0100. Offers end June 30, 2011 To learn morearevisit

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Mercedes-Benz Regina, 777 Broad Street, (306) 757-2369, regina.mercedes-benz.ca [Dealer Name], [Dealer Address], [Dealer Telephone Number], [Dealer Website] Š 2011 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. 1Savings calculated on MSRP of the Special Edition Package options less dealer discount. Total price of a new 2011 C 250 Special Edition/C 250 4MATIC™ Special Edition is $38,800/$42,800. *Lease and finance offers based on a new 2011 C 250 Special Edition/C 250 4MATIC™ Special Edition available only through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services on approved credit for a limited time. Monthly payment and total obligation for lease and finance offers are calculated applying the $1,250 anniversary credit. Lease example based on $358/$408 per month for 48/48 months. Down payment or equivalent trade of $3,875/$3,900 plus security deposit of $400/$500 and applicable taxes due at lease inception. MSRP starting at $38,800/$42,800. Lease A.P.R. of 3.9%/3.9% applies. Total obligation is $21,462/$23,990. 18,000 km/year allowance ($0.20/km for excess kilometres applies). Finance example is based on a 60-month term and a finance A.P.R. of 1.9%/1.9% and an MSRP of $38,800/$42,800. Monthly payment is $580/$638 (excluding taxes) with $3,590/$4,280 down payment or equivalent trade in. Cost of borrowing is $1,626/$1,789 for a total obligation of $38,376/$42,539. Freight/PDI (up to $1,995 - dealer may charge less), licence, insurance, registration, taxes, EHF Tire, Filter and Battery fees, “green levyâ€? and similar taxes levied on the manufacturer (if charged by the dealer) and PPSA are extra. Additional provincial specific fees, taxes and charges may be extra. Dealer may lease or finance for less. Offers may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers. Some vehicles are shown with optional equipment available at extra cost. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for details or call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Relations Centre at 1-800-387-0100. Offers end June 30, 2011.

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CAREERS AT RBC DOMINION SECURITIES

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Jim Grundy, V.P. and Branch Manager RBC Dominion Securities Phone: 306-777-0505 Email: jim.grundy@rbc.com Fax: 306-791-9250

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We thank everyone for your interest, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

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At RBC diversity and inclusion are at the heart of bringing out the best in all our people. RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. ®Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. RBC Dominion Securities is a registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©Copyright 2011. All rights reserved.

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WITH FINE LIFESTYLES EDITOR THOM BARKER

PHOTO BY LISA LANDRIE

First Word

We are who we are.

This issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina marks my one year anniversary with the magazine. If I’m being honest, there have been times I really wondered if I would make this milestone. It’s no easy feat to get one of these issues to print and in the heat of deadlines it sometimes feels like I’m on the brink of cracking.

When I look back on it though, it’s been a fun ride. I’ve read a lot of great stories and I’ve gotten to know my home province better in a year than I might have in a decade doing something else.

I’ve also had the opportunity to interview some really amazing people. For this issue, I got to meet and talk to Shannon Tweed. Rarely have I met an individual who is as comfortable in her own skin as Shannon seems to be. It can’t be easy being under constant public scrutiny. Granted, she has brought most of that on herself, but still, I don’t know that I could endure that kind of attention.

There are, of course, many different strategies for dealing with fame. Tragically, all too often, and all too publicly, we see celebrities succumb to substance abuse problems. Of course, it’s arguable that these are the result of underlying issues and not directly attributable to fame, but there is enough anecdotal evidence to suggest a link.

In the case of Shannon Tweed, she seems to have adopted a ‘we are who we are’ kind of attitude. She quips that her life is an open book because she has a bad memory and wouldn’t be able to keep track of her lies if she tried to hide from her past.

And she’s insightful about her movie career saying, “People ask, ‘why didn’t you do this?’ or ‘why didn’t you do that?’ but that’s not up to me. I didn’t get offered a lot of things, so I took the best of what I got offered and tried to make a career out of it.”

This is why I love interviewing people. I’m almost always able to pull a page out of their books and apply it to my own life. Not that I have a lot of skeletons in my closet, nor do I have any illusions that I may be or become famous, but Shannon helped me become a little more accepting of the stupid things I’ve done and the opportunities I may have missed.

We are who we are.

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Featured Contributors Photographers

Writers

Heather Fritz

Mackenzie Brooks

“When I am invited into people’s homes, I am always drawn to the photos they have on display,” says Heather Fritz, nationally published, Saskatoon-based photographer.

“I was inspired by Shannon Tweed’s collection of small-framed family photos on display in clusters around her home. While her house is large and elegant, each display acted like a piece of art while acknowledging the importance of family in this home.” Heather has been shooting professionally for over seven years. She grew up in Alberta and has lived in the Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario. Heather is the official photographer for the Saskatoon Opera and is the co-chair/founder for Saskatoon’s “The High Tea” fundraising benefit tea. www.heatherfritz.com

Mackenzie Brooks is a freelance writer whose articles appear in several local publications, as well as, magazines in British Columbia and as web copy for a diverse range of clients in the fields of fashion, beauty and advertising. Her work has been featured in ad and media campaigns in event management and professional fundraising content.

She is also a featured contributor on www. atrampabroad.com, a website dedicated to travel writing and inspiring wanderlust.

John Morrell

Ryan Holota

As a young child, John’s father introduced him to the world of photography. As he grew up on a farm, and often travelled to the city, he had the opportunity to see nature in a way that perhaps many other children did not. After he himself became a father, he began focusing on capturing those special moments and milestones of his daughters. He has currently widened his photo subjects to include sports events, pet photography, weddings, architecture and photo directories. What keeps John interested in photography is the people he meets.

Ryan Holota is a freelance writer and marketing consultant in Regina, SK. In addition to his work for Fine Homes and other magazines, Ryan works with businesses to help them improve their writing, marketing, and communications. Most importantly, he is a husband and father.

Mackenzie is also a dedicated arts enthusiast whose love of dance and history has taken her across Europe in pursuit of each, most recently in the dusty and forgotten corners of Spain, Hungary and Romania.

To learn more about Ryan, to read his blog, or to find his contact information, visit www.arholota.com. You can also find him on Twitter at @ryanholota.

www.jmorrell1.photobiz.com/cart

Shawn Fulton

Trilby Henderson

Shawn Fulton’s passion for photography began in high school with darkroom developing and printing techniques and evolved at the University of Regina while he was acquiring his BFA in film production. Since, Shawn has all but abandoned the darkroom for digital photography, but still likes to play with antique and Polaroid cameras at social events to give his “party photos” a timeless quality.

Trilby Henderson completed her BA in Journalism at the University of Regina in 2005. She spent the next several years working in corporate communications and media relations, where she mastered the art of business writing. In 2009, Henderson embarked on a full-time freelance writing career by launching Captive Ink Freelance Writing and Editing Services.

Shawn has a remarkable talent for lighting, which he attributes to his extensive background in stage and film. His work as a director, cinematographer and animator has been screened at film festivals nationally and he was recently featured on the cover of Saskatchewan Filmpool’s Splice magazine.

Shawn lives in Regina’s Cathedral Village with his wife, Kendra, and their two children, Rosco and Suki. www.shawnfultonphotography.com

Henderson’s work has been featured in several magazines, newspapers and trade publications. She also provides writing and editing services to businesses and individuals to meet their specific needs, such as the development of a company newsletter or content for a website.

306-543-1566; www.captiveink.com

FineLifestyles REGINA

Fall 2011 VOLUME 3 ISSUE 3 www.finelifestyles.ca Editor Thom Barker editor@finelifestyles.ca

Graphic Design and Layout Joni Gaudette joni@finelifestyles.ca

In-house Design Lori Gallagher lori@finelifestyles.ca

Cover Photography Heather Fritz www.heatherfritz.com

Photography Calvin Fehr www.calvinfehrphoto.com Dorothy Law www.everythingvisual.com John Morrell www.johnmorrellphotography.ca Shawn Fulton www.shawnfultonphotography.com

Contributing Writers Amy Nelson-Mile Alexandra Walld Carol Todd Carter Haydu Dean Renwick Edward Willett

G.H. Lewmer Ken Beattie Lisa Degelman Mackenzie Brooks Mackenzie Brooks Meagen Thomas

Ryan Holota Sheena Koops Tammy Robert Tobie Hainstock Trilby Henderson

Advertising Consultants Brett Francis Brooke Watson Randy Glascock Todd Elik

brett@finelifestyles.ca brooke@finelifestyles.ca randyg@finelifestyles.ca todd@finelifestyles.ca

PHOTO BY HEATHER FRITZ

A MESSAGE FROM SHANNON TWEED

Publisher

Saskatchewan was my adopted home for my impressionable

Wayne UnRuh 541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, Sk. S4V 2S4

years. Saskatoon was home for me and my mother who struggled

Fine Lifestyles Regina is published four times a year by Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd., publications are copyrighted 2011 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 Ltd. or its writers. The name Fine Lifestyles Regina, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. or the companies it represents. 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.

to care for her seven children. It was the adopted home of my great grandparents who were pacifists fleeing Russia. Canada offered religious freedom, schools and land in return for working that land. Saskatchewan is the birthplace of my grandmother, my parents and older siblings. It continues to be their residence today. The prairie will always be a symbol of home to me. She holds the lessons of my youth and the hope of my ancestors. I hope to make her proud... and someday, maybe a new house on Shannon Tweed Lane?

FineLifestyles REGINA

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68 77 FEATURE STORIES 16 COVER STORY: SHANNON TWEED 32 DEAN RENWICK 36 ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR 42 FINE RECIPES: CHEF MICHAEL SMITH 48 THE HEALING POWER OF SOUP 68 TORNADO HUNTER 77 KEN BEATTIE 14

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110 TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES 120 TODAY’S RVs

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DEPARTMENTS 24 STYLE 34 DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT 44 HEALTH AND WELLNESS 68 SPORTS, RECREATION AND TRAVEL 77 HOUSE AND HOME 110 BUSINESS 118 WHEELS 124 SPECIAL FEATURE: MOOSE JAW 139 SPECIAL FEATURE: WEDDINGS

FineLifestyles REGINA

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Shannon Tweed has appeared in dozens of movies and television shows including her current hit reality romp Gene Simmons Family Jewels. She is a devoted mom and an outspoken supporter of the Saskatoon SPCA. She is many things, but still best-known for, and frequently referred to as a former Playboy playmate, even though that was 30 years ago and almost didn’t happen at all.

THE GIRL BEHIND THE SPOTLIGHT

BY THOM BARKER. PHOTOS BY HEATHER FRITZ

It was 1978. Tweed, then a waitress and aspiring model in Ottawa had been talked into competing for the title of Miss Ottawa Valley, which she won. Miss Canada was not an experience she remembers fondly.

overs. They turned my hair into, I don’t know, it looked like a poodle or something and I was mortified because they did a perm on me. I was so self-conscious about it, I wanted to cry. I was so nervous and I did one of those, you know where you answer the question and you go ‘um… which… were… how… you… are… like… a…’ kind of cadence, and then you go ‘world peace’ and can’t wait to get off the stage.”

“I really have terrible stage fright, which is funny because I can do almost anything as someone else, but as myself I can’t do a whole bunch,” Tweed explained. “The night before, I think, was the sponsored hair-cuts when they decided to do make-

She finished third runner up, but won the talent competition.

“I don’t know how that happened because I was horrible,” she recalled. “I sang an Olivia Newton-John song (“I Honestly Love You”) and I know Miss

“If I had won Miss Canada, I probably wouldn’t have done Playboy,” Tweed told Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon from her home in Beverly Hills, California.

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Niagara Falls (Denise Matthews) later on became Vanity, who sang with Prince and she was in the competition as well.”

Despite the negative memories of the pageant, Tweed says she would have gladly traded the talent title for the crown.

“Then my life probably would have gone in a completely different direction. Because I think it was a different road to maybe endorsements and commercials, and so on, where I probably would have been making a decent living.”

Instead, she was back to struggling to make ends meet waitressing and doing model-

ling on the side, until Hef came a-calling.

“There was a photographer scouting in town for Playboy and he was shooting one of the girls from our agency,” Tweed said. “I asked my agent if he could get me in to see him and I wouldn’t have done that if I had been Miss Canada, probably. I was still waitressing, and at that time you really couldn’t make a living just modelling. All the girls were doing something else as well.”

Tweed managed to get in to see Playboy’s scouts twice, but was turned down both times.

Thrill of a lifetime It has been widely reported that Tweed finally managed to get into Playboy through the Canadian reality TV series Thrill of a Lifetime. She tells it a bit differently (see myth busting sidebar), but

the bottom line is her persistence finally paid off and, in November 1981, she was the magazine’s Playmate of the Month.

In 1982 she became Playmate of the year, which netted her a Porsche and a brief stint as Hugh Hefner’s girlfriend.

But was it the thrill of a lifetime?

“No, I wouldn’t say that was my thrill of a lifetime,” she said. “I don’t think I’ve had my thrill of a lifetime yet. And I say that because everyone says that having their children was their thrill of a lifetime and I agree that that is so I won’t bore you with that. Having my kids is obviously the best thing that ever happened, but maybe my thrill of a lifetime aside from that hasn’t happened yet.”

There have been some thrills along the way, though. Most recently, Saskatoon City Council announced in June it would name a street after her. Tweed

Lane will be near the Boychuk Drive entrance to Rosewood, a new neighbourhood currently under development in the southeast corner of the city.

“That’s thrilling isn’t it?” Tweed enthused. “I was thinking about buying a house on that street. It could be Shannon Manor on Tweed Lane.”

The early years Shannon Tweed was born March 10, 1957 in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

“You remember as much as an 11 year old remembers,” she said. “You remember how your yard looked, the overall feeling. I had a happy childhood.

“We all did what normal kids do, whatever our parents told us to do and were punished accordingly if we didn’t do it. In those years, in the 60s, there was capital punishment and you had to sit at the

INTERNET MYTHS BUSTED You started competing in beauty pageants when you were very young.

No, I didn’t. I only did one. I only did Miss Ottawa, which ran into Miss Canada, which didn’t go anywhere.

You moved to Ottawa to be with an Ottawa Rough Riders football player.

No. You got into Playboy through the TV program Thrill of a Lifetime.

No. Well, kind of. I tested for Playboy and I was rejected a couple of times. I don’t know who thought of it, but between me and my agent and Thrill of a Lifetime, it’s all kind of a blur, but the third try was combining the publicity that you would get from the show and competing in Thrill of a Lifetime and yada yada yada, then that sort of convinced Hef that ‘ok, we’ll do it.’

You are quoted as saying you were jaded by the time you were 24.

Really? I don’t think I ever said that. I don’t even think I know what that means.

table and finish your meal and all kinds of things we don’t do today. I remember having oatmeal and waiting for it to congeal so I could drop it on the floor so the dog could eat it so I could be let go.

the ranch without Donald’s knowledge, which led to an acrimonious divorce.

Louise decided to move the family back to her hometown of Saskatoon. It was very difficult for 11-year-old Shannon.

“The trips to school were different then.

The one I remember most was probably when I was a little older. It was a longer trip and we had to go through the town of Dildo. There was a fish plant there and when it was whaling season the smell was horrendous and, of course, the kids on the bus, we’d all roll up the windows and scream. Occasionally, you’d see an iceberg or a beached whale, so there were sights that normal kids don’t get to see.”

“We moved in shifts, my mom had seven kids and she had to move us [separately] so when we went to Saskatoon I lived with my aunt and cousins. And, as you ‘d probably expect, my cousins weren’t happy to share their accommodations so I didn’t feel that welcome and I missed everything I ever knew and had to make new friends, go to a new school, so it was an interesting time.”

It wasn’t to last though. Tweed’s father, Donald Tweed, a mink rancher, was in a bad car accident. In order to support the family, her mother, Louise Tweed, sold

After graduating from Mount Royal High School, she moved to Ottawa when the boy she was dating got transferred there for his job.

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KISS and tell For the past 28 years, Shannon Tweed has been with Kiss bass player Gene Simmons in a relationship they have described as “happily unmarried.” For fans of Gene Simmons Family Jewels, last season unveiled a kink in that happy armour, when Tweed got sick of Simmons’ behaviour of surrounding himself with beautiful young women.

It came to a head on the Joy Behar Show when Tweed walked out on a live interview saying “it’s over.” Gossip blogs questioned whether the walk off was legitimate or a publicity stunt for the show. Tweed maintains she was legitimately fed up.

A good segment of the last season saw Shannon staying in a hotel while Gene sought professional help for his part in their relationship problems. In the season finale, however, Shannon was

back at home and Gene proposed to her. At the time of the interview for this article, Tweed was still keeping it mum about whether she said ‘yes,’ but in September, the nuptials became official with the announcement of an October 1 wedding. Their entire relationship, though, was another aspect of Tweed’s life that almost didn’t happen.

“We met at a party at the Playboy mansion,” she recalled. “He was there with some young ladies and I was alone. I didn’t think that was for me, but later on in the evening we got to talking a little bit more.

He was an interesting guy, so we made a plan for the next day. I gave him a phone number to call me the next morning, but it turns out I gave him the wrong number. I gave him the number I give guys, you know, when I want them to go away.”

She gave him a second shot, though. The

next morning she was getting ready to go to Toronto where she was to start filming a movie. She asked her older sister Tracy, also an actor, to take a picture with a note and her real number on it over to the Beverly Hills Hotel where Simmons was staying.

“He came over in a car with a chauffeur because he couldn’t drive yet. He used to live in New York and didn’t have a driver’s licence. So he came by and was going to take me out for breakfast, but he forgot his wallet. So, those were two signs I probably should have walked.”

She didn’t. While in Canada filming, the two kept in touch talking frequently on the phone.

“Our first date, then, ended up being a few months later in New York.

I flew to New York and then we stayed there for a couple of months.”

The family jewels The children of celebrities are notorious for being messed up. They are frequently fodder for tabloid headlines with their drinking, drugs, sexual exploits and just generally outlandish behaviour. But not Nick (22) and Sophie (19) Tweed-Simmons.

By all accounts, Shannon’s and Gene’s offspring are the nicest, most levelheaded kids you’d ever want to meet.

“Isn’t it weird?” Shannon asked. “I think partly they came out smart and partly they paid attention when I taught them things. I drove them to school every day, kept them held captive in the car for a couple of hours every day, brainwashed them really well. I knew a whole bunch about what not to do. I didn’t know a whole bunch about what to do for my-

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self, but I sure know what not to do, so I can help there, and they were listening.

Here, finally, comes the bride

“They have a good example in their father.

He doesn’t drink or do drugs or do too many stupid things. He does some stupid things, but we all do. And they have my example of all the stupid things I used to do and I told them, ‘it’s not anything you need to experience on your own. It’s not all it’s cracked up to be so let’s just skip over that part and let’s just watch everybody else make fools of themselves,’ and they figured out that that’s a pretty good idea.”

As this issue of Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon hits the streets, Shannon Tweed and Gene Simmons will be tying the knot at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Nick is quick to credit his parents with helping him avoid the pitfalls that plague so many of his contemporaries.

So, what do you get the couple who has everything? Nothing. When they announced their impending nuptials they asked people to donate to the Saskatoon SPCA. If you want to wish the newlyweds well and help the animals the SPCA shelters, go to www.saskatoonspca.com. FLR

“Our parents always made sure to keep things in perspective,” he explained. “Any flashiness and “big-living” didn’t happen until late teen years—there were no designer baby clothes and very few “events,” premieres, etc.—that we went to as kids. We didn’t go on tour with dad for weeks at a time; at most we would fly out and see a couple shows. But we rarely missed school for anything like that. I went to a public elementary school and middle school. At every turn, my parents would hammer into my head the appropriate gratitude I should feel for the life I was born into. Other celebrity parents should probably take a page out of their book, honestly. I’ve seen too many other kids in my position grow up feeling invincible because of their economic and social position, and ironically this feeling of invincibility inevitably leads to, at the least, severe personality problems, or, at worst, their hitting rock bottom.”

Nick is a recent graduate of Pitzer College, where Sophie just started attending classes toward a degree in computer engineering.

He isn’t in any hurry to rush into his future.

“I’m not sure... I’m still figuring it all out, really,” he said. I’m recently graduated, and the terrifying/exhilarating feeling of having an open future and an oyster-world at the ready is upon me. We’ll see what happens.

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“Mom’s going to kill me for saying this,” said Nick, “but as long as they are both happy and honest with each other, I don’t care what they do. That’s the most important thing for me. I think mom is due to get the ceremony she wants after all this time.”

W5 WHERE are you most happy I am most happy outside in a quiet wooded area or by a lake, so not any particular place, but in nature.

WHAT is you biggest regret Not having more children.

WHO has been the most influential person in your life?

Gene

WHEN were you most scared in your life?

Now. It’s a transitional time for me. Everything’s up in the air, I don’t know which direction my life is going. My kids are leaving me, my relationship isn’t stable. It’s a scary time.

WHY are you so publicly open about your private life?

Because I have a bad memory, so I choose not to be a liar. If you’re going to lie, you have to have a really good memory.

Shtuff

happens.

Insurance pays.

Home • AUTO • FARm / ACReAGe CoNDo / TeNANT • CommeRCiAl • liAbiliTy / boNDiNG TRAVel HeAlTH

Carolyn Cooper North Albert

Debra Robbins Rochdale

949-5747

545-9444

390 Albert Street North and 4505 Rochdale Blvd

Regina

affinityis.ca

style

Trino’s Menswear If you enjoy a diverse selection of fashion-forward menswear you will LOVE YOUR shopping experience at Trino’s Menswear.

Trino’s is a fun, friendly, high-service atmosphere carrying everything in unique gift ideas this holiday season such as casual denims, cozy sweaters, fitted sport shirts, dress shirts, ties, cufflinks, suits, sport jackets. And don’t forget to fill his stocking with our fashion socks, and our far-from-boring underwear.

Not only will you find the perfect gift idea, you can also make us your one-stop shop when it comes time to stock up on your fall wardrobe or find that perfect formal outfit for your staff Christmas party this year.

Michele Kre

csy (Manager ),

Trina Fader

(Owner)

“Men often refer to shopping as being comparable to a root canal.

We guarantee you will not feel that way here at Trino’s. We take the stress out of shopping. We are here to help and we enjoy it when we make certain you have exactly what you are searching for. Times are busy enough these days. If we can make your life run a bit smoother and save you time, “We will do that.”

We offer many services such as fashion advice and complimentary tailoring. We also keep client cards, with all the details of your sizing in various brands so that when you send people in shopping for the perfect gift, you get the right fit the first time.

Check out our website www.trinosmenswear.com to find out more about why you should stop in and see us today.

Eastlanding Mall 2445 Quance Street 306.522.4667 www.trinosmenswear.ca

Vision Center Direct ON THIS PAGE: ALEK PAUL “2106”

HEALTH & WELLNESS

EXPERTAdvice Enlightening Customers As a consumer, it can be very difficult to understand the differences in lens technologies and frame qualities. With ads in the media selling “2 for 1” and free this and free that, it is no wonder that some may question what it is they are getting. Nothing is ever “free”- you pay for it somewhere in the final price.

At Vision Center Direct, the lenses we use are from the heavyweights of the industry- Essilor and Nikon.

They have put the millions of dollars into research and development to lead the world in advanced digital optics. Their coatings are second to none and offer easy cleaning and durability. We are valued partners with these companies and are frequently consulted for our input to improving the digital lens experience for our patients.

Ryan Horne- Optician VisionCenterDirect.com 4401 Albert St. Regina, Sk. 306.586.3937

Our partnership with Essilor has allowed us to provide a multiple pair offer on their products. Any pairs of lenses purchased after the first pair (at the same time) are all 50% off. Finally, those who want the absolute best optics can benefit from aggressive price savings! There is no need to compromise quality for price. Go ahead- get those Rx sunglasses and computer pair! Freshen up the lenses in your existing frame.

“Do you have D & G? What about Ray Ban or Oak-

ley?” is something we hear from time to time. Our answer is no. We believe in providing people with a more interesting, less mainstream eyewear selection. We are proud to carry eyewear that is eclectic and non-conforming.

Our collections are industry leaders, many with names unrecognizable to the average person. Two of our favorite collections recently won awards as voted by peers in the high end eyewear community.

Barton Perreira won the “Best Ultra Luxury Collection” and Anne et Valentin won the “Best Acetate Collection”. Tom Ford is one of the few big-name fashion designers whose eyewear is unique and rich in quality, yet not mainstream. Once people try these collections, they see and feel the difference in quality and style.

Our collections offer something different for any taste from the disappearing to the bold. No matter what our patients choose, we provide all with comfort, service, and quality for tremendous value. We now have educated consumers!

The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of low cost is forgotten!

Ryan Horne Licensed Optician

Vision Center Direct ON THIS PAGE: CHROME HEARTS “PONTIFASS”

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Vision Center Direct ON THIS PAGE: CHROME HEARTS “CLUB SANDWICH” FineLifestyles REGINA

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254 University Park Drive Regina, Sk. 306.586.2929

Inside!

info@wpinside.com www.wpinside.com

LAURA ROSS MLA REGINA QU’APPELLE VALLEY 4519B Rochdale Blvd

545-6333 laurarossmla@sasktel.net www.lauraross.ca

You can now find Laura Ross on Twitter and Facebook

outfit. I know it sounds crazy, it looks a bit crazy too, just remember to take your meds if needed.

Remember watching the classic late shows? Well, 40s elegance is hot once again. As always, fashion tends to repeat itself. This is a perfect look for any office or Holiday party. When dressing, just think of Rita Hayworth, Ava Gardner or Joan Crawford (minus the wire hangers and shoulder pads of course).

Miniskirts are fantastic for all ages this fall. Yes, I said ‘all ages.’ They are perfect for wearing with leggings and boots or tights and heels. Maxiskirts are also making a comeback; just make sure that your hemlines are not soaking up puddles on the warmer days.

Prints are always hot in some form. This season watch for polka dots in all sizes, paisleys, bold florals and baroque patterns—and remember—if it ain’t baroque, don’t fix it (sorry, I just couldn’t help myself).

Feather and animal prints (not hides but pictures of the actual animals) are also something worth looking out for this year.

Leopard and python hide prints are still in, but only for about another season. Don’t invest too much into them now; they’ll be outdated before long.

Colour! Colour! Colour!

know it’s sad to see the warm days of summer leave us, but don’t let it get you down too much. With the departure of summer comes the rich warm colours of fall and the cool deep tones of winter.

What an exciting time to update your wardrobe!

Trends: Old and New Not since the 1980s when Annie Lennox and Boy George set to gender-bending our conservative minds have androgynous fashions been so hot. Don’t go too

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overboard with it though, ladies, add a touch of lace or something sparkly with your young manly ensemble.

Fetish wear is another look that has come in big time. Personally, not a good look for the office unless you’re looking to be chained to your desk all day.

This season features a lot of texture overload. Mix everything with everything!

Chunky knits, sequins, fur, plastic, chiffon, leather, silk and wool—mix it all up in an

Black is out! Don’t be fooled it’s not as slimming as you think. In fact, it can have just the opposite effect. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, too much black can make you look frumpy, dumpy and lumpy!

Don’t believe me? The next time you’re out at a function take a look around. How many other women do you see wearing black? You don’t stand out in the room; you really just look the same as everyone else. Then take a look at the complexions, for most women black ages you and makes you look drawn out and pasty.

Wear the right colour and you can take years off instantly.

If, when you’re shopping, you find yourself gravitating to black; replace it with a stunning midnight blue. Why go to a party dressed the same as everyone else? Next time walk into the room in the bright, saturated jewel tone and take everyone’s breath away.

Guys, colour is a must for you too. Looking to stand out at the next board meeting or office party? Jazz up that old navy suit with a lemon yellow shirt, red tie and orange pocket square. The colours of fire will make you hot!

Accessories Personally, I am so over the big hobo bag. When you’re looking and feeling hot, do you really need a big old dumpy looking bag hanging from your shoulder? Find some smaller, cleaner looking bags that complement your ensemble.

When looking for jewellery this season, make a statement with large, colourful, unusual pieces that will be remembered. These are pieces that will stand apart rather than complement such as oversized bracelets, extra long earrings, extravagant necklaces and huge flashy rings. Added to work attire, these items will take you from being office cutie to part hotty in 2.0 seconds!

Remember that whatever happens at the office party stays at the office party. You still have to work with these people every day.

One of my favourite quotes is from the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s:“There are certain shades of limelight that can wreck a girl’s complexion.” These are wise words to live by (man or woman). FLR

OFFICE PARTY DOS

• Ask that cute office clerk to the party as a date.

• Get dressed up. When you look great,you feel great.

• Go with an attitude of having fun and feel free to participate in the festivities.

• Mix and mingle with people outside of your department or circle of friends.

• Show an interest in others, allow them to talk.

• Enjoy a few drinks.

• Have a safe ride home planned—call a cab or have a designated driver, just stay safe.

OFFICE PARTY DONT’S

DEAN RENWICK

• First of all, do you remember last year’s office bash? If you don’t, that’s a ‘don’t.’

• Even though it’s a party atmosphere, this is not the time to show up in your fetish wear.

• This is not the time to be hitting on the cute office clerk you’ve had your eye on all year.

• Don’t spend the evening texting and talking on your phone.

• Don’t gossip about others, especially to the boss; you can find yourself on the end of the stick.

• No posting inappropriate photos on social media sites. The rest of the world does not need to see you flashing your boss.

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dining and entertainment

THERE’S NO TASTE LIKE HOME

PEG AND VERN LEIPPI - PEG’S KITCHEN

Down Home Cooking Like Grandma Used To Make ith humble beginnings on a quiet farm at Kronau, Saskatchewan, the names Vern and Peg Leippi and “Peg’s Kitchen,” have become synonymous with down home, top quality, delicious food products and customer service practices that are truly second to none.

As they celebrate 10 years in business in 2011, the couple remembers well where it all began, with “Peg’s Legs.” You might wonder where “Legs” fit into their history, but if it weren’t for those “Legs,” their business may not have been born.

Vern always had a unique talent for curing

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and smoking meats of all kinds, including turkey legs, and Peg was an amazing cook herself. So, as they both possessed a strong love for cooking and entertaining, they thought it a natural fit to serve their own homemade fare during their 25th Wedding Anniversary celebration.

Through the night as guests continually raved about their “amazingly delicious” food including kobasa and meat cabbage rolls, it dawned on them that they had stumbled upon something with true potential. It was a dream that would involve creation of the food they loved to make and serving it to people who would really appreciate it. And so it was that

Peg’s Leg’s was born.

Starting with small trade shows, craft fairs and other similar events, they honed their skills and learned how to run their business. They worked exclusively out of their own kitchen at first and soon found the need to expand it by building a commercial kitchen in their basement. As business grew, it wasn’t long before they needed to expand even further.

In 2002, the dream became reality when they turned the key and opened the doors to their very own store at 1653 Park Street in Regina. But the story doesn’t end there.

Business continued to grow, and within

just a few years they changed the name to “Peg’s Kitchen,” and the location grew from 2,000 to 4,000 square feet, including a quaint in-store dining area they still operate today.

The question begging to be asked at this point is: “How have they done it?”

Well, Peg and Vern will tell you it’s been a combination of dedication, hard work, consistency in quality products and services, supporting the local economy by utilizing local suppliers, and, of course, a little luck.

They employ a team of hard-working individuals who hand roll literally thousands of the meat cabbage rolls Peg’s Kitchen sells each week, not to mention the hundreds of pounds of Vern’s smoked sausage, and the dozens and dozens of 12 varieties of perogies.

Then, there are the meat and cheese trays; seasonal veggie, fruit and dainty trays; and other items they cater every week.

Take one step into Peg’s Kitchen and the aroma of homemade goodness and warmth absolutely surrounds you,

just like walking into Grandma’s house!

Hearty breakfasts, borscht and daily soups, the amazing Ukrainian lunch, chilis, mac ‘n’ cheese, complete turkey and roast beef dinners, sandwiches and salads, delectable pies and desserts, and more.

And it’s all home made with natural Saskatchewan products.

Peg’s Kitchen serves a multitude of customers’ needs every year. From catering private functions and events including everything from small and intimate gatherings to large public functions, from supplying major corporate clients and filling hundreds of orders annually to serving walk-in customers six days a week, they’ve done a tremendous job of growing their own Saskatchewan business and it shows.

Discover it for yourself! Visit “Peg’s Kitchen” at 1653 Park Street, join them online at their Facebook page and website www.pegskitchen.ca or just call 781-2830. FLR 1653 Park Street Regina, Sk. 306.781.2830 www.pegskitchen.ca

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REGINA

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

OCTOBER Sept 28 - Oct 16

Oct 14 - 16

THE BLACK BONSPIEL OF WULLIE MACCRIMMON

REGINA FALL HOME SHOW

Regina Floral Conservatory

Oct 9 LIVE HARNESS RACING

Oct 12 - 14

Oct 16 HARVEST TEA

Oct 21

DIWC PRESENTS: THE SNOW QUEEN

AN EVENING WITH WILLIAM SHATNER

Oct 14

Oct 29

AVRIL LAVIGNE

LEON RUSSELL

NOVEMBER Nov 5

Nov 22 - Nov 26

RICKY SKAGGS

WESTERN CANADIAN AGRIBITION

Nov 11 REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY

Nov 26 ODE TO LUDWIG: VICTOR SAWA, CONDUCTOR

Nov 16- Jan 1

Nov 27

ROBIN HOOD

WINTER WONDERLAND TRADE SHOW AND CRAFT FAIR

Nov 19

Nov 30 - Dec 3

DAUGHTERS OF AFRICA TASTE OF AFRICA FUNDRAISER

EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD (…AND THEN SOME)

DECEMBER Legislature Buildings Dec 1

Dec 10

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ACROSS CANADA

DISNEY LIVE! 12:30 P.M. AND 6:30 P.M.

Dec 1 GORDON LIGHTFOOT

Dec 10 PAUL BRANDT IN CONCERT

Dec 14

VICTORIAN TEA

REGINA SYMPHONY PRESENTS HANDEL’S MESSIAH - KNOX METROPOLITAN UNITED CHURCH, 7:30 P.M.

Dec 6

Dec 31

Dec 3 - 4

STUART MCLEAN

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

NOW OPEN

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition takes you on a journey back in time to experience the legend of Titanic like never before. The galleries in this fascinating Exhibition feature over 100 real artifacts recovered from the ocean floor along with room re-creations and personal stories; each highlighting a different chapter in the compelling story of Titanic’s maiden voyage.

NOW OPEN 2903 Powerhouse Drive, Regina (Take Wascana Dr. east off Broad St.—on the north side of Wascana Lake)

WORRY FREE Great Chinese Food Without M.S.G.

BY CindY Chan PaCholuk.

Photos BY shawn fulton

A

pleasant dining experience must have two things—good food and good atmosphere. At Plum Garden on Albert Street South in Regina, there are these two elements plus yet another—the promise of healthy natural ingredients.

The food at Enjoy Plum Garden contains absolutely no MSG and no lard. MSG— or monosodium glutamate—is a surprisingly common chemical flavour enhancer, but the cooks at Enjoy Plum Garden never use it choosing, instead, to flavour the delicious Cantonese and Szechuan dishes with traditional spices and seasonings. The restaurant’s philosophy is that good food is possible through skilful cooking and the perfect blend of spices. MSG is neither necessary nor desirable.

For similar reasons, Plum Garden chefs do not use lard. The restaurant believes that vegetable oil can do everything that lard does, but in a healthier way.

Food prepared with vegetable oil is light, refreshing and wholesome say the cooks, whereas lard-cooked food is the opposite of all these.

If customers miss the lard and MSG, they aren’t saying so. In fact, many customers bring in their health-conscious friends specifically because of the no-lard, noMSG features of the restaurant. For many, it is an absolute delight to fill up their

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plates at the buffet table knowing that the food is made with natural ingredients and cooked in wholesome vegetable oil. Everything is cooked using only the freshest possible meats and vegetables and all sauces are prepared in-house with great care.

The popular restaurant is well-known in Regina for its buffets. Although diners can order off the menu, most choose to have the buffet after seeing the wide array of dishes to choose from. There are the Plum Garden favourites such as Amazing Black Chicken Wings, Sweet and Sour Pork Loin, and Hot and Spicy Wooden Pork plus unique features including “Lion’s Head” Pork and Black Bean Chicken Feet along with old favourites such as chicken balls, egg rolls and wonton soup. There is even roast beef and baked ham—whatever

your tastes, there is likely something to satisfy your appetite.

Good food is not the only offering, though.

Plum Garden also believes in excellent customer service. Many diners return again and again not only for the delicious cuisine, but also for the friendliness of the staff. A friendly face while dining in comfortable, pleasant surroundings can make all the difference in anybody’s day.

If you’re not in the mood to go out, Plum Garden offers city-wide delivery. In fact, the restaurant is almost as well-known for its superb take-out as it is for its lunch and evening buffets. Whether you are planning a small meal with a loved one or a party for over a hundred, there is sure to be a take-out option that suits everyone’s needs.

If you are celebrating a family birthday, having a quick business lunch meeting or just want to experience a wide variety of flavourful yet nourishing Chinese food, visit Plum Garden at 4355 Albert Street in Regina, or call 337-2889. Treat yourself to good food made with wholesome ingredients enjoyed in a pleasing comfortable atmosphere. This delightful Szechuan and Cantonese restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

FLR

Enjoy Plum Garden 4355 Albert Street 306.337.2889

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MEDITERRANEAN BRAISED SALMON With Ripe Tomatoes, Olives, And Oregano Salmon is very versatile; there are as many ways to cook this fish as there are cooks. It easily accommodates elaborate preparations, but it’s just as enjoyable prepared simply with lots of familiar Mediterranean flavours. Serves 4.

INGREDIENTS • 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of olive oil • 1 red onion, thinly sliced • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced • 2 cups (500 mL) of halved cherry tomatoes • 1/2 cup (125 mL) of chopped pitted Kalamata olives • 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of dried oregano • 1 cup (250 mL) of orange juice • 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of red wine vinegar • 4 centre-cut salmon fillets (each about 6 ounces/175 g), patted dry • A sprinkle or two of salt and lots of freshly ground pepper • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

PREPARATION In your favourite large heavy sauté pan or frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.Toss in the onion and garlic and sauté for a few minutes until lightly browned, soft, and aromatic. Add the tomatoes, olives, oregano, orange juice, and vinegar; cook until simmering, a few minutes longer. Lightly season the salmon fillets to your taste with salt and pepper, then nestle them in the tomato mixture.

Lower the heat so the liquid is just barely simmering, cover, and simmer until the fish is cooked through but still juicy, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve and share, with lots of the tomato mixture spooned over the salmon.

*KITCHEN TIP

With a cooking method like this one, you really don’t need to worry about overcooking the salmon because its juices will be absorbed by the tomato mixture and ultimately with the fish.

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CHEF MICHAEL SMITH

Every day, chefs bring out a wide range of flavours on the job. Few of those flavours seem to make it home, though. This deeply flavourful pasta dish is one that has. Long ago in a restaurant kitchen I discovered that slowly roasting a pan of fresh tomatoes with Italian sausage transformed the mix into an intensely flavoured rustic pasta sauce. Cooks’ food.

Crew lunch. An old friend! Serves 4

INGREDIENTS • 8 cups (2 L) of cherry tomatoes • 1 large onion, thinly sliced • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced • 4 Italian sausages, sliced into 1/2-inch (1 cm) thick rounds • 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of olive oil • A sprinkle or two of salt and lots of freshly ground pepper • 12 ounces (375 g) of penne • Leaves from 1 large bunch of fresh basil • 4 green onions

PREPARATION Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Toss the tomatoes, onions, garlic, sausages, and olive oil together. Season to your taste with salt and pepper.

Transfer to a roasting pan and place in the oven. Roast until the tomatoes, onion, and sausages are lightly brown and smell amazing, 30 to 45 minutes. When the tomatoes are nearly done, bring a large pot of salted water to a full rolling boil. Dump in the penne and cook until edible, stirring occasionally.

After 10 minutes or so fish out a piece and bite it. At first it will be too firm, but in just a few minutes it will transform, so

continue fishing and tasting until you like the texture. Pasta is best when it’s tender enough to eat but hasn’t become too soft.

Great pasta retains lots of pleasing chewy texture.

While the pasta is cooking, stack a tall pile of basil leaves, roll it into a tight cylinder, and slice as thinly as possible. Slice the green onions as well. As the pasta finishes cooking, add a ladleful of the pasta water to the roasting pan.The moisture will dissolve any caramelized brown bits of flavour on the bottom of the pan.When the pasta is done, drain it and return it to the

pot. Add the roasted sausages, onions, and tomatoes, scraping along every last bit of roasted flavour from the pan.

Toss in the basil leaves and green onions and stir everything together. Serve and share!

*KITCHEN TIP

Busy restaurant cooks pay no attention to the clock. They simply watch their food.

Keep an eye on it. Make decisions. Watch for flavour. Wait for flavour. Stay vigilant and patient. The dissolving tomatoes and browning sausage will reward you with a deeply flavoured rustic pasta dish.

health and wellness

Medical Aesthetics by licenced professionals Don’t leave anything to chance ermalojik Medical Aesthetics in Regina is the destination of choice for anyone who is looking for BOTOX, Juvederm, Soft Lift (a combination of BOTOX and Juvederm), and Latisse (an eyelash enhancer).

Dermalojik’s clients include those who choose to make repeat visits from other provinces and even from the U.S. There are several reasons for this loyal following, and owner Karen Kohm, R.N. sums it up when she says, “We offer prime quality care in a safe and confidential

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professional setting.”

Kohm says, “My clients know that their treatments are being done in a respected private cosmetic medical clinic.” Kohm is a registered nurse who has 10 years of experience in emergency room work.

She works alongside Dr. Darrell Avram, ophthamologist, who is the medical director for Dermalojik.

Kohm herself is committed to ongoing professional development. “I believe in continuing education,” she says. As a

result, she regularly attends conferences, journals, workshops, and she is a member of numerous professional associations.

This professionalism has paid off; she has been recognised by her peers for her injection skills.

Kohm also believes it is important to be active in the community she does business in. Just recently Dermalojik has sponsored The Hillberg & Berk Fall Launch, which supported Myeloma Canada ; Dress For Success, which serves disadvantaged, job-ready women; The

THE DERMALOJIK TEAM (L to R) Marusha Djelosevic, Karen Kohm and Trudy Folk Taste of Spring, which supported the North Central Family Centre; and the Don Narcisse All-Star Event, which supported Kidsport.

Kohm’s clients also value her dedication to straightforward communication. “I go over everything with the client,” she says.

“I answer any question they may have, I tell them about the proven safety track record of the products, and we have a full and open discussion. I offer honest and straight advice.” This dialogue is especially in evidence during the initial consultation, but it is ongoing. “I value strong and open communication.”

As part of this dialogue, Kohm works with each client to help them establish their goals. “I provide effective treatment plans that meet each individual’s lifestyle and budget,” she says.

Once her client has decided on the treatment plan, Kohm goes on to assess each person’s facial expressions, examining the way the muscles work together. From there she is able to an individualised treatment. “My clients recognise that they do not get the same treatment that I gave the person before them,” she says. “I give them the treatment that will work best for them.”

Kohm says that her clients get these treatments for many reasons. “The people I see are a diverse group,” she says. “There are men and women, and they range in age from young people in their 20s and up.

Some come for treatments because they have an expression on their face they’d like to get rid of—maybe they look angry, or fatigued, even when they’re not. Others come because they’d like to freshen up their look.” Whatever their reason for seeking treatment, Kohm says, they know that they can expect a naturally beautiful result from her. Their faces will look natural, not “done.”

Her clients also know that the treatments are completely confidential. Kohm is a licenced professional who respects their privacy and ensures that everything is conducted in accordance with the Information Privacy Act. Kohm is passionate about her career. “I’ve been doing these treatments for over five years now and I love it,” she says. Dermalojik is a growing business and Kohm will be expanding the clinic’s services in the near future to meet the evolving needs of her clientele.FLR

Dermalojik Cityview Center 2550-15th Ave, Suite 500, Regina, Sk. 306.522.1078 karen@dermalojik.com www.dermalojik.com

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Be Enchanted...Sahara Spa

Photography by - Chris Peters of Omni Studios

• Group pedicures in a grand pedicure suite • Couple massage rooms • Apsara jacuzzi suite available for full and half day spa packages • Thai massage • Spa boutique

341 Stadacona Street East | Moose Jaw, SK. | (306) 692-1012 www.saharaspa.ca

Luther Luther Your future is at Luther

Your future is atStudent Luther to join the Future Luther Program. Contact

All students from kindergarten to grade 8 are welcome

the kindergarten coordinatortoofgrade admissions at 791.9174 or All students from 8 are welcome admissions@luthercollege.edu, visit Luther on the web. to join the Future Luther Studentor Program.

Contact the coordinator of admissions at 791.9174 or admissions@luthercollege.edu, or visit Luther on the web.

Join the Future Luther Join the Student Program Future Luther

Student Program

www.luthercollege.edu www.luthercollege.edu

Quality educationQuality in a Christian context in a Christian context education

THE HEALING POWER OF

SOUP Folklore or science?

BY RYAN HOLOTA or most, the concept of soup as a healthy meal is one that we grew up with. For centuries, chicken soup, especially homemade chicken soup, has been seen as a cure-all for everything from the common cold to a broken heart. This reputation may not be all folklore. A 2000 study by the University of Nebraska Medical Center found that chicken soup may indeed have anti-inflammatory and mucous-thinning properties.

Soups probably date back to the very beginning of human cooking, and were likely one of the very first foods that we began to cook. Every culture on Earth has soup as a staple meal, from Ukrainian Borscht to the Japanese Niboshi, and they were made with ingredients that were easy to find. Soup also allowed more nutrition to be gained from a piece of food – our early ancestors could not eat the bones of an animal, but boiling the bones provided not only a tasty and healthy broth, but also allowed the food to go further, a blessing in huntergatherer societies.

Our early ancestors may have hit the jackpot with soups—they can be one of the healthiest foods that we eat. Soup is often served as a first course at meals, where the liquid fills your stomach and can contribute to a feeling of fullness. Some studies have shown that those who eat soup as a first course consume as many as 20 per cent fewer calories in their meal.

In addition, the very nature of soup as a hot liquid encourages us to eat more slowly. This not only raises our enjoyment of a meal, but also gives our brains time to register how full we actually are and can prevent overeating. These benefits have long been realized by those who are seeking to lose weight; a Google search on Soup Diet returned almost nine million results. The number 1 result was the cabbage soup diet, a soup that

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even Weight Watchers recommends to help the company’s clients shed pounds.

The health benefits of soup depend, naturally, on the type of soup you are consuming. Those creamy soups that have bacon in them, probably aren’t the healthiest foods to eat, especially if they come from the grocery store. Many canned soups contain added ingredients that Grandma didn’t use in her recipes (Sodium phosphate? Soy Protein Isolate?), and many are loaded with as much as half of your daily recommended dose of sodium.

Still, healthy soup choices abound. Soups are time-consuming to make, but often much of that time is spent letting the creation boil. Fast soup recipes that reduce the amount of chopping abound on the internet, and farmer’s markets and health food stores can often provide a mix of dehydrated soup stock that can quickly and easily be reconstituted into a delicious and healthy meal.

For purists though, nothing beats spending an afternoon in the kitchen with a pot boiling away. Of the many benefits of soup, perhaps one of the most appealing for those with busy lives is how easy soup is to store. Simply pour the soup into serving sized containers and place them in the freezer. They can last for months in the freezer without tasking off, and are easy to heat in the microwave or in a pot on the stove. FLR

FineRecipes beautiful beety borscht • 1 and a half cups finely diced potato • 2 cups finely diced beets • 1 Tbsp vinegar • 1 tsp salt • 1 cup finely diced carrots • 1 cup cut green beans • 1 cup green peas • 2 cups shredded cabbage • 1 Tbsp chopped parsley • 2 Tbsp chopped dill • 1 Tbsp Sugar • 1 chopped onion • 1 qt tomatoes, chopped or 28oz can • 1 stalk celery, sliced

Combine potatoes and beets with water; add salt and vinegar. Put on stove to boil; add carrots, beans, and peas. Add water to cover vegetables.

Boil 15 minutes. Add shredded cabbage, parsley, dill, onion, tomatoes, celery, and salt. Add more water to cover if necessary. Boil for 45 minutes.

Add salt and pepper to taste. Freezes beautifully in large or small containers.

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Is your dresser drawer hearing better than you?

Let’s get those hearing aids out of the drawer & finally working for you Eastside Audiology can work with your existing hearing aids – old or new. We are an “all make” audiology clinic with onsite minor repair services and the capability to reprogram “all makes” of hearing aids. If you are having issues with your current hearing aids, we can help.

We have over 31 years experience serving the southern Saskatchewan area and are recognized for our superior diagnostic capabilities for both our pediatric and geriatric patients Dr. Debbie Davis is the only Doctor of Audiology in southern Saskatchewan.

If it concerns your hearing health – we can help!

1830b Victoria Ave. E. Regina, SK Ph: 306.359.3277 www.lifewithsound.com Lindsay Romain

Administrative Assistant

Candace Leake

M.S. Aud (C) Clinical Audiologist

Dr. Debbie Davis

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

Mitch Davis

B.Sc. Business Manager

EXPERTAdvice Are carrots good for your ears too?

In a nutshell the answer is the healthier you are the healthier your ears are. I often tell my patients that the ear is not an island. It is connected to the rest of your body and anything that impacts your physical health may also highly influence your hearing health.

Dr. Debbie Davis Aud (C), Au.D Doctor of Audiology

Eastside Audiology & Rehabilitation Inc. 1830b Victoria Ave E. Regina, Sk. 306.359.3277 www.lifewithsound.com Many people are aware that ear infections can cause temporary hearing loss affecting the middle ear. You may also know that Q-Tip usage can actually cause more harm than good. Q-Tips can cause a temporary hearing loss in the outer ear canal and their usage results in higher degrees of wax impaction.

What you may not be aware of is that permanent hearing loss in the inner ear can be caused by more than just aging and noise.

Yes, you read that correctly. Hearing loss is not just occurring in those who are getting old. So what else can spur on hearing loss at younger ages?

The inner ear structure will be affected by anything vascular or metabolic because of the physiology of the ear. Got that? Lack of the proper nutrients can lead to cell damage or cell death. The cochlea is the most complex organ of the body next to the brain. It is the size of the tip of your little finger yet contains 20,000 hair cells. There simply is no easy process for improving hearing or preventing damage causing hearing loss. However, understanding the complex nature of the various influencing factors on hearing health may at least get you started on the right path. Lifestyle, diet, and vascular health are among the many potential influencing factors with regard to your hearing.

Research has looked at the benefits of different nutrients like antioxidants, cheeses, and carrots (among others) in the prevention of cell death and even the reversal of temporary noise-induced damage. Nothing is conclusive, but a Finnish study has evidence showing that it is, in fact, wise to watch your intake of calories and fat.

This study of 4,000 participants over a sixyear period of time reported that those who watched their intake of calories and fat had fewer heart attacks and superior hearing to those who continued to eat a high-fat diet.

I think the message is pretty clear. Try to live as healthy a lifestyle as possible by eating foods with low saturated fat but higher

polyunsaturated fat. Hearing loss may be a manifestation of a systematic illness and, as such, a hearing test should be considered an important part of a complete medical workup.

Ensure that your hearing clinic can do otoacoustic emissions, as this is the testing that is required to catch the early signs of hearing loss. A baseline hearing test should be a consideration for all adults because hearing loss can be seen in those with various issues such as thyroid troubles, diabetes, and high cholesterol. By partnering with a diagnostic team of physicians and audiologists you will get the most thorough assessment and treatment plan possible.

And, as always, don’t forget to eat your carrots—your hearing will thank you! FLR

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TAKE CONTROL AND FIND YOUR

CONFIDENCE

BY ALEXANDRA WALLD

S

elf-confidence can be shaken by stressful events in everyday life.

The important thing is not to let these situations take control of your life because once that happens they can have detrimental effects on how you see the world or feel about yourself.

Take Hal Turner, for example. The 58-yearold Saskatonian spent years of his life yoyo dieting, never seeing permanent results.

The lack of success made him frustrated and as his health issues became more serious, he felt as though he had no control over his well-being. It wasn’t until he got the Sleeve from Weight Loss Forever that his health started improving.

Marilee Lowe, a registered nurse in Saskatoon, kept her procedure a secret for almost a year because she feared judgement. Once she started sharing her story about Weight Loss Forever, she began to feel better about her decision and about herself.

Stephanie Dinsdale had her world turned upside down when she found out that her husband was having an affair and leaving her. Her self-esteem took a hit and through the support offered by Weight Loss Forever she now feels better than ever.

Whether it’s health problems, relationship issues or simply the fear of judgement that is having a negative effect on your life, it’s important to find a way to take control and find your confidence. Because once you do, nothing can stand in your way.

The best way to gain self-confidence is to do what you are afraid to do. ~Author Unknown 52

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HAL’S STORY

loss goal with support from Weight Loss Forever and his facilitator.

“It’s funny. After I lost the weight, everybody asks if I’m ok because I’m losing so quickly, but I’m actually much healthier already.

I’m finally on the road to better health – my diabetes is gone and I’m off most of my medications,” he says. “Of course, going through this was never my first choice but I think it was my only choice. It’s extremely positive and encouraging to continue my journey on the path to getting to be who I was meant to be.”

HAL TURNER BEFORE

“It’s funny. After I lost the weight, everybody asks if I’m ok because I’m losing so quickly, but I’m actually much healthier.”

Being overweight was a lifelong struggle for Hal Turner, a successful realtor from Saskatoon with CENTURY 21. For years his weight fluctuated, over time contributing to health issues—chronic knee problems, heart disease, and diabetes. He heard about Weight Loss Forever through several friends who had gone through the procedure and believed it was a possible solution to his obesity.

He researched the Sleeve and found that it didn’t have complications like the LapBand, or the long waiting list and nutritional deficiencies that can be associated with gastric bypass surgery.

“When I made the decision to go with Weight Loss Forever, my doctor did some research on the company and the procedure and backed me 100 per cent,” he says.

Hal went for the procedure at the end of April, weighing close to 350 pounds. In just four months, he lost 80 pounds and continues working toward his weight

HAL TURNER AFTER LOSING 80 LBS

MARILEE’S STORY

anti-depressants,” she says, “I had known about weight loss surgery as a nurse and when I started investigating it, I thought Weight Loss Forever was the answer. I decided to do it and have never regretted it, not for a moment.”

Marilee lost 118 pounds from her highest weight and 92 pounds from the day of her surgery in December 2009. She has kept all of it off for almost two years. For almost the entire first year, the 53-year-old never told anyone, except for her daughter, that she’d had the procedure because she feared what others would think or how they would react.

“To anyone struggling with obesity, at least consider this option. Don’t be afraid to look at weight loss surgery as a viable option for your situation,” she says. “And make sure you have your plastics done after because it’s so much fun to just look good! All my life I’ve hated shopping and I finally enjoy myself. I was never able to do that before because it was too hard.”

“It’s been a gift to me.

Not one single person has said a negative thing to me about my choice.”

“I didn’t want anyone talking me out of it and didn’t want anyone to tell me I was doing the wrong thing,” she says. “I worried people were going to judge me and I struggled with feeling ashamed that I needed to have weight loss surgery.”

Marilee says her feelings of shame have disappeared and she no longer wakes up wondering if today is the day that she gains it all back. She knows this is a permanent solution for her and since telling people, she’s had an incredible response.

“It’s been a gift to me. Not one single person has said a negative thing to me about my choice.”

MARILEE LOWE BEFORE Having struggled with her weight all her life, Marilee Lowe, RN, MN, GNC(C) knows how frustrating it can be to have excess weight diminish your life. At eight years old, her family physician put her on a limited calorie diet and at age twelve, she was introduced to the world of Weight Watchers. For the next many years, she would feel the success of losing weight and then the dread that she’d gained it all back, and then some, just a short time later. When she was in her 30’s, she lost 100 pounds only to gain 120 back.

“My biggest struggle was keeping it off and it wasn’t possible for me. I was at a point where I was 254 pounds and only 5’3”, I had high blood pressure, was on

Fuelled by the positive reactions, Marilee felt comfortable enough to get her plastic surgery with Weight Loss Forever; choosing to have a circular tummy tuck and arm reduction.

“I have lot more self-confidence. I know I’m comfortable in my body now so I’m more outgoing than before. I also think it’s changed my understanding of obesity and how it affects people. As a nurse and as a facilitator, the more people I talk to and stories I hear, the more I understand how much obesity hurts people.” She adds that having gone through the journey herself helps her understand what others are going through and makes her better able to empathize with them.

MARILEE LOWE AFTER LOSING 118 LBS

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STEPHANIE’S STORY

Forever’s president and CEO—I knew this was the right choice for me.”

Her husband was very sceptical so he and Stephanie went to several support group meetings. Says Stephanie, “The meetings were probably the most inspirational events I have ever been to.”

Even after grilling Melanie with every question related to the weight loss procedure, Stephanie’s husband was still unsure, so he used his skills to research the doctor who would perform the surgery, even managing to uncover her high school exam marks and awards. He was impressed with Dr. Pompa’s credentials.

The fact that she was board-certified in the US and trained at the internationally renowned MAYO Clinic was reassuring.

He was finally satisfied with his wife’s choice and gave her the thumbs-up.

STEPHANIE DINSDALE BEFORE She was under the impression she had a very caring and loving marriage as they started their family together. Stephanie Dinsdale and her husband were married when she was 19. For the first six years she was a military wife and for the last 15, she was a police officer’s wife. Like many other women, she started gaining weight as their family grew. The weight, combined with the stress of losing both of her parents to cancer, continued piling up. For two years, Stephanie tried to lose the excess weight through methods like Herbal Magic, Weight Watchers, the gym, personal trainers and dieting.

“I’d lose weight and gain it back and couldn’t keep it off. I got to the point where I just gave up,” she says. “I spent a lot of time thinking how very frustrated I was that the person I was and the personality I had on the inside didn’t show on the outside. I wasn’t able to be myself and was realizing it was time to make that change and do whatever I had to do. As soon as I started talking to Melanie—Weight Loss

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old. I have more confidence and selfesteem than I’ve ever had in my entire life.

I want people to know that Weight Loss Forever is the real deal. It’s a life-changing experience; it’s everything it says it is and more,” she says. “I met Melanie, started talking to her and that one day started this amazing change in my life and I look as great on the outside as I feel on the inside.

I would like to thank Weight Loss Forever with all my heart for giving me my smile back.”

“I want people to know that Weight Loss Forever is the real deal. It’s a life-changing experience; it’s everything it says it is and more.”

Three weeks before her weight loss surgery, Stephanie found out that her husband of 19 years was having an affair. “I had no idea what was going on.” she says, “I was blindsided and found myself scared and alone with three children.”

On July 11, 2010, Stephanie—who was 238 pounds at the time—was sleeved. Since then, she has lost nearly 100 pounds.

During her procedure, Dr. Pompa and the staff at the facility took care of Stephanie as if she were family, which is something she says she will never forget. “I was going through the most painful experience of my life. Weight Loss Forever was there for me when I needed them. There were doctors sitting on my bed at 2:00 a.m. telling me I was going to get through this.”

Less than a year after her weight loss surgery, Stephanie underwent plastic surgery with Weight Loss Forever’s Chief Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Rodas, who performed a tummy tuck and breast augmentation.

“I am now in better emotional, mental and physical shape than when I was 19 years

STEPHANIE DINSDALE AFTER LOSING 100 LBS

Cosmetic Surgery

Why Weight Loss Forever?

Hear what our patients are saying about dr. rodas: “The care I received was incredible and my own doctor in Saskatoon was so impressed with my results. Dr. Rodas is just wonderful and I am thrilled with the work he did - I feel years younger and I’m proud to say that at 73, my body is sleek!”

Donna Garman, Saskatoon

“My family doctor marvels at my surgical lines and says it’s the most beautiful work he’s seen in his practice. I finally reflect on the outside how I always felt on the inside. Thank you Weight Loss Forever!”

Kim Heddon, Meadow Lake

Dr. Marcus Rodas, MD, Ph.D Dr. Rodas, Weight Loss Forever’s Chief Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, has over 17 years of experience. Dr. Rodas is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. He also has a fellowship in body contouring and novel techniques.

“I love, love, love my new breasts! You can’t even see the scars and the recovery was so fast! Not only is Dr. Rodas a terrific surgeon, he made me feel safe and secure about choosing to have plastic surgery. I tell everyone how fantastic my experience was!”

Stephanie Dinsdale, Prince Albert

$

As low as

97

67*

Per Month

* OAC Only. Based on a 5 year term with $1000 down payment. Rates may vary.

SASKATOON LOCATION 15-901 1st Ave N, Saskatoon Next to Liquidation World 1-306-665-8891

REGINA LOCATION 136-1621 Albert St, Regina In the Regina Crossing Building 1-306-352-8446

Weight Loss Forever LIMARP Hospital Weight Loss Forever’s beautiful and modern hospital is an International Center of Reference and is designated as an International Bariatric Center of Excellence.

CALGARY LOCATION 39-4620 Manilla Road SE Calgary, Alberta T2G 4B7 1-403-243-6333

LETHBRIDGE LOCATION 8-1274 3rd Ave S Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0J9 1-403-381-3181

ACCESS THE POWER OF YOUR MIND AND BODY

TRAIN YOUR BRAIN

BY AMY NELSON-MILE. PHOTOS BY SHAWN FULTON

W

hile small amounts of stress can help an individual to perform better under pressure, uncontrolled stress and anxiety can wreak havoc on a person’s physical, emotional and mental well being. Through Brainwave Optimization with Real Time Balancing technology, Mind Body Harmonics of Regina is providing clients with effective long-term solutions designed to help them overcome the imbalances caused by excessive stress.

Dami Egbeyemi, a Brain Wave Optimization Facilitator and owner of Mind Body Harmonics, explains how high amounts of stress can negatively impact a person’s brain function. When an individual is engaged in a mental activity such as thinking logically or solving a problem, the beta or high beta frequencies of their brain are most dominant, he said. Once the task is complete, the brain’s frequencies return to a more normal level.

However, when a person is under constant stress or anxiety, the high beta frequencies eventually become the dominant pattern. This causes the individual to feel anxious or stressed even after the initial

source of their stress has been removed.

Brainwave Optimization is a safe, noninvasive technology that involves measuring an individual’s brain patterns and using guided imagery to help them return their brain to a more balanced state. “Basically, what we do is we help the brain calm those frequencies down,” said Egbeyemi. “Clients are able to have more control over how they deal with stress and reduce the amount of stress they feel based on the training we give them.”

Egbeyemi said training the brain is similar to training the body—just as you wouldn’t expect immediate results from one trip to the gym, most clients require ten to fifteen sessions before they experience the full benefits of Brainwave Optimization.

Mind Body Harmonics offers memberships to clients and works with them to set a schedule that suits their needs. This can range from a single session each week or month, to a more intensive program with multiple sessions per week, for faster results. FLR

Mind Body Harmonics Dami Egbeyemi 2306 - 9th Avenue North 306.501.5381 info@mindbodyharmonics.ca www.mindbodyharmonics.ca

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linda SorEnSEn, rn, with a cliEnt

Caring for people, Caring for the Community

BY Edward willEtt

Saskatchewan people are good at looking after other people.

That Saskatchewan ethos fits perfectly with the mandate of Bayshore Home Health, which specializes in home care of all sorts, from personal care such as waking, bathing, dressing, administrating medications and providing nursing help to home support such as cleaning, cooking, shopping and companionship.

“That’s just the way we’ve grown up,” says Brian Smyth, area director for Bayshore Home Health in Regina. “You just tend to be looking out for other people, looking for ways to contribute to your neighbours.”

“It’s got to be the widest range of services offered in Canada,” Smyth says. “We have a physiotherapist who goes into people’s homes. We have a hair stylist who will go into people’s homes. We have a nurse who does foot-care work.” There’s even a

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caregiver who not only takes a client to dances, she dances with him, too.

One client in her 80s, for whom Bayshore does laundry and cleaning, told them, “With us, it was ‘Yes, yes, yes, yes,’ when she asked, ‘Do you do this? Can you do this?’” Smyth says. “With our competitor, it was, ‘No, no, we don’t do that.’”

Everyone’s needs are different, and Bayshore specializes in meeting those needs. One example: the MyNurse program, which enables seniors to receive regular visits from a registered nurse.

l to r: Brian SmYth, linda SorEnSEn, laurEEn rich, StacEY dodd, Erin haaS “We get calls from people who want their parents to be seen,” Smyth explains.

“They’re out of the city or out of the province. Their parents don’t need help right now, but they want someone to look in on their parents, once a month or once every three months.

the Canadian Paraplegic Association, the Arthritis Society, the Red Cross, the Alzheimer’s Society and Osteoporosis Canada. Members of the staff participated in Regina Palliative Care’s Good Mourning Walk, and barbecued burgers and served drinks to all the participants.

“We send out a nurse to check out how they’re doing with their medications, assess the home to make sure there aren’t any risk factors for falling, check blood pressure, perhaps do blood glucose monitoring—just check on parents to see that they’re OK.”

But Bayshore’s community involvement extends beyond health-and-wellness concerns. Take the annual Christmas display. Bayshore’s office at the corner of Albert Street and Twelfth Avenue boasts large glass windows on three sides, passed by thousands of vehicles every day. So every Christmas, Bayshore decorates its windows in elaborate fashion, reminiscent of the Christmas displays department stores used to have in their windows. “We did a Winnie the Pooh theme two years ago,” Smyth recalls. “Last year we did The Twelve Days of Christmas, and this year we’re planning on The Lion King.”

Bayshore’s Saskatchewan neighbourliness also manifests itself in a commitment to the community, one that last year earned the Regina branch the company’s annual Community Initiative Award, out of 51 Bayshore branches across the country.

Its initiatives included blood pressure clinics conducted at no charge for seniors living in retirement residences, and the loan of caregivers to assist with functions of organizations as diverse as

Other community events have included a Royal Wedding Party, complete with hat contest, ice cream treats, and giant posters of the wedding couple, and a

Saskatchewan Roughrider Day that featured Paul Woldu of the Montreal Alouettes and Dan Clark of the Roughriders, plus a free blood pressure clinic for football fans.

From a business point of view, Smyth notes, “the more you’re out there doing things, the better your name gets known, and the more likely people are going to call you if they do need some care.”

But ultimately, that’s all secondary.

The man reason for all that community involvement?

“We’re Saskatchewan people,” says Smyth, “and Saskatchewan people are community-minded people.” FLR

Bayshore Home Health 150-1870 Albert St. 306.352.7144 www.bayshore.ca

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earing loss can have a substantial impact on how we experience the world around us, presenting new and ongoing challenges, changing our ability to communicate with friends and family and, sometimes, affecting the way we view ourselves. Whether you are already experienced with hearing instrument technology or are just beginning to hear again, Sounds of Life Hearing Center in Regina will help you find the right device to enhance your hearing, increase your confidence and restore your full enjoyment of life.

Tracey Schick Sparrowhawk, Registered Audiologist, and her team of friendly, courteous and professional staff at Sounds of Life Hearing Center provide clients with a welcoming environment where they can feel comfortable discussing their hearing loss and exploring the numerous options available to them. “I am so blessed to be a part of bringing back the gift of hearing to people,” she said. “This profession allows me to serve my clients, find solutions that meet their needs, and get to know them on a personal level.”

Most new clients will begin this experience with a full hearing evaluation and personal counselling designed to place their needs at the forefront. This helps Sparrowhawk and her team to accurately determine the client’s needs and the product that will best suit his or her lifestyle and budget.

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE SOUNDS OF LIFE Hearing technology has improved by leaps and bounds

BY TRILBY HENDERSON

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Sounds of Life Hearing Center carries a wide range of state-of-the-art hearing instrument technology and accessories, including Bluetooth compatible products and custom moulds for swimming and sleeping, etc. “Hearing instrument technology today is more advanced than it has ever been!” said Sparrowhawk.

“There are so many different styles to choose from, and the sound quality and the processing of speech in noise is far superior to technology from just five years ago.”

Modern hearing devices are much more visually appealing and come with wireless features that allow them to be used with items such as cell phones, TVs, and

computers. “New clients are surprised by the cosmetics, acoustic feedback (whistling) is virtually eliminated, and the wireless accessories have opened up technology that normal hearing people take for granted,” she said.

Of course, there is more to the process than simply determining the client’s needs and locating the right product.

“When a person gets amplification for the first time, there is a period of adjustment to hearing all sounds again and this can be overwhelming at first,” said Sparrowhawk.

Sounds of Life clients are able to test their new hearing device during a trial period, which allows them to become comfortable with the device in their own listening environments.

have medical conditions that predispose them to hearing loss, or work in a noisy environment. Individuals should also consider replacing hearing aids that are more than five years old as they may have reached the end of their lifespan or, since hearing loss progresses over time, they may no longer effectively meet the person’s needs. Sparrowhawk said these individuals may be amazed by the new products available today. “They will be pleasantly surprised at how natural sounds are processed through the aids, especially when they are in noise,” she said.

“Clients who have purchased hearing instruments invariably come back and say, ‘I wish I had done this sooner!’ or ‘I didn’t know what I was missing’,” said Sparrowhawk.

777 Albert St. Regina, Sk. 306.522.5522 www.soundsoflife.ca Enter through the main lobby of the 7 Oaks Hotel

This adjustment period is generally much smoother today than in the past, as new hearing devices can be set to a softer level, allowing the person to gradually adjust to hearing again. “Most people are wearing their devices all day, every day right from the first day they get them,” said Sparrowhawk. If the client decides a device does not suit their needs for any reason, they can return it and try another product or request a refund.

It is important for all individuals to have their hearing tested periodically, particularly if they are over the age of 40,

Join Tracey on Talk to the Experts on Newstalk 980 radio.

Check www.soundsoflife.ca for show schedule and archived episodes.

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AdvAnced O technology mAkes unwAnted hAir A thing of the pAst

By Amy nelson-mile

ne of the most recent advances in aesthetics is elõs™, the only technology that uses the combined energies of laser and bi-polar radio frequency to remove unwanted facial and body hair. jk Solutions Hair Studio provides this new alternative to shaving, waxing , plucking, or electrolysis.

Janice Kosteniuk is the owner/operator of jk Solutions Hair Studio. She says that elõs™ effectively and gently removes hair of many colours and types from all skin tones. “The treatment damages the hair follicle, and this disables the follicle’s ability to grow hair,” she explains. “As a result, over the course of several treatments, there is a permanent reduction in the amount of hair in that area.”

Kosteniuk says that with each treatment less hair grows back, and the hair that does come back is finer and lighter in colour. “To get a satisfactory clearance, most people find that six to eight treatments are effective.

However, medical and genetic conditions will play a role in the number of treatments necessary,” she says. “Some areas take longer too, such as men’s backs and chests, facial hair, lighter coloured hair, and hair grown as a result of hormonal changes. In these cases eight or more treatments are usually needed.”

Safe and convenient “elõs™ is one of the safest hair removal systems available for all skin colours,” says Kosteniuk. “Both optical and radio frequency have been used for decades in medicine, surgery, and aesthetics. So there are no short-term or long-term health hazards from the laser or electric energies used in elõs™.”

Not only is the treatment itself safe, but Kosteniuk is an experienced practitioner.

“I’ve been in business for 15 years now, and I added the laser hair reduction service three years ago,” she says. “I make sure that all interactions with the clients are highly professional. I keep

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“the group presentations are a lot of fun for everyone,” says Janice. “i enjoy doing them, and people are able to easily get all their questions answered in a group setting. i explain the treatments, i give a demonstration with my equipment, and then i do underarm treatments for half-price.”

careful records of all treatments, and your treatments are confidential and private.”

Because Kosteniuk is the sole owner/ operator of jk Solutions Hair Studios, her clients gain several benefits. To begin with, they like the fact that she is the only practitioner in the business. “My clients find that they receive consistent treatments from me because I’m the owner/operator,” she explains. “Also, I remember them from one treatment to the next.”

She is also able to make all services very client-centred. For example, she can tailor her schedule to meet her clients’ needs.

“My hours are very flexible,” she says. In addition, if her clients would rather not go to her office in Rouleau, Kosteniuk will arrange to go to them. “I’m portable,” she says. “I can go to a client’s home easily.”

Make it a party Not only does she offer the advantage of on-site treatments, she will also do group presentations and consultations if there

are a minimum of seven people in the group. “The group presentations are a lot of fun for everyone,” she says. “I enjoy doing them, and people are able to easily get all their questions answered in a group setting. I explain the treatments, I give a demonstration with my equipment, and then I do underarm treatments for halfprice.”

Finally, Kosteniuk works hard to make the treatments affordable. “It’s not as expensive as many people think it is,” she says. “There are payment plans available.

I can make it reasonable and affordable for those who really want the treatments.”

“Anyone can benefit from elõs™ treatments,” says Kosteniuk. “Men and women of all ages have received them from me and have been very satisfied with the results.”

You can reach jk Solutions Hair Studio by calling 530-7659 or emailing dentedj@ hotmail.com. Also check out the web page at jkhairstudio.com. FLR

JK Hair Solutions Janice Kosteniuk Rouleau, Saskatchewan 306.776.2426

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FIRST SCHOOL REPORT CARD IMPORTANT MILESTONE FOR STUDENTS he first major milestone of the new school year is the first report card.

Janet Klassen, from Oxford Learning Regina, said that while parents worry and wonder, they don’t need to get too stressed about the first school report card.

“The first report card of the school year is like a check-up on how your child is adjusting to the new grade,” said Klassen.

“The thing to keep in mind is that this report card is not the final word on grades—it is more about how your child is doing so far this school year.”

If there are poor grades, Klassen recommends reading the teacher’s comments for more insight into your child’s classroom behaviour. “Sometimes a bad math or English mark can be linked to being too talkative, or daydreaming.”

These types of behaviours—and others—can mask a skill gap that is often the root of poor report card grades.

Oxford Learning’s Dynamic Diagnostic Assessment, an innovative testing tool that pinpoints learning strengths and weaknesses, can help parents get a better understanding of the causes at the root of their child’s poor grades.

Aside from professional testing, there is much that parents can do at home to help

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themselves see the bigger picture. Klassen recommends sitting down with your child to go over the report card as a simple way to get extra insight into your child’s grades and classroom performance. “A report card discussion is an important step in becoming an active participant in your child’s education.”

Five Tips To Talk to Kids About Their Report Card These report card tips from Oxford Learning helps parents and children have an effective report card discussion.

1. Sit down and review together. Make sure that there are no distractions so you can focus on one another and the conversation.

2. Don’t get upset. If you’re upset or angry about grades, hold the discussion until you can speak calmly and rationally. Your child will communicate with you about school issues better when he or she does not feel threatened by your anger.

3. Start with empathetic and positive comments. Highlight something positive about the report card, no matter how trivial. For instance, “we are pleased with your spelling grade.”

4. Listen to your child. Recognize your child’s struggles. School can be tough.

It is helpful to students to know that someone is listening to their concerns and complaints.

5. End with a plan. Be optimistic and identify any next steps before you leave the table. Set some goals and then plan how the child is going to achieve the goals you set.

Founded in 1984, Oxford Learning uses innovative approaches to learning that have helped thousands of students reach their educational goals. Customized programs based on the science of cognitive development help children develop the skills that they need to succeed in school and the confidence needed to succeed in life.

Do you have questions about your child’s report card? Get answers!

Contact Janet Klassen at Oxford Learning Regina 790-2000; or email regina@oxfordlearning.com. FLR

Oxford Learning Regina 2595 Quance Street East Regina, Sk. 306.790.2000 www.oxfordlearning.com

EXPERTAdvice ESTATE PLANNING The Secret to Conflict: Think Before You Act

agree with everyone. When an important issue needs to be resolved you must think clearly about the options available to you and the amount of money you are prepared to invest in having a lawyer represent you.

Pauline Duncan Bonneau, Q.C. (Can) Lawyer, Speaker and Author 1580 Avord Tower 2002 Victoria Avenue Regina, SK S4P 0R7 Phone: (306) 569-1713 Fax: (306) 525-8585 email: pauline@thelovelawyer.com website: www.thelovelawyer.com

Lawyers help people fight. If there is an important principle at stake or a lot of money on the line you should find out your legal rights before deciding to give up.

Hiring a lawyer should be a good investment in your future. Even if you lose your case a lawyer will help you understand the merits of your case and the legal mechanisms that are available to you. If you make a decision before exploring your rights, at some point in the future you will regret backing down before you had full knowledge of the choices available to you.

If you are separating or divorcing there is a process called “collaborative law” that may be your best option. Collaborative law lawyers have special training in conflict resolution strategies that are designed to keep people out of court. At the start of the collaborative law process you, your spouse and your lawyers must sign a contract in which everyone agrees you will not go to court. Rather, the four of you will keep meeting until a settlement is reached.

Fighting is something most people want to avoid. From the time we are children we are told “it is not nice to fight” and that we should “get along”. You are no longer a child. As an adult some of the most difficult decisions you have to make will be when to stand your ground and when to give in.

Collaborative law works especially well when parenting issues or the division of family property needs to be resolved. It is less costly than going to court. The only drawback is that you cannot force anyone to agree to engage in collaborative law. Both parties to the dispute must see the merits of proceeding without a court fight.

Conflict is an opportunity to learn and grow.

It is also inevitable. You will not always

I am a registered collaborative law lawyer and have witnessed first hand the relief

people experience when solutions have been creatively explored in a respectful manner. Collaborative law lawyers act as coaches and help clients communicate in new and constructive ways. The process instills trust at a time when people don’t trust each other.

If you are fighting with someone who will not engage in collaborative law then you have two options: you can give up or you can force someone to meet you in court.

When you take your matter to court you must have a strong conviction that you are right and that the cost of court proceedings is justified. When you sue someone that person must then make the same decision as you—give up and settle or have a judge decide what must happen. There is no guarantee that a judge will decide in your favour so you must have your lawyer help you make a realistic assessment about the risks of a court action.

The advice I give my clients is to become fully informed about the choices available and then remain curious about the outcome.

Fear is debilitating and causes people to make bad choices. Do your best to think outside the box. A good lawyer will help you do that.

Pauline Duncan Bonneau, Q.C. (Can) is a registered collaborative law lawyer. She also handles court cases. If you need to resolve an important conflict, call Pauline at 525-8500 and make an appointment to discuss your options. FLR

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Let our qualified and experienced team of professionals assist you in making a difference in your life.

When health care challenges arise it affects the whole family. At Life Force we help to smooth out the bumps in the road by supplying the right services for your budget and needs; serving you with dignity and respect.

Having a good home health care plan in place allows you to stay independent in the comfort of your own home, where you can enjoy family and friends in your treasured surroundings. We also provide care in nursing homes, hospitals and retirement homes.

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Phone: 306.543.4305 www.lifeforcehomehealth.com

Advice from your OPTOMETRIST HEALTH & WELLNESS My Baby’s EyesWhat do I need to do?

Dr. Myles Bokinac

Optometrist Advance Eye Care Center 500-4010 Pasqua St. Regina, Sk. 306.586.7036 www.advanceeyecarecenter.ca

Our doctors do infant eye exams daily and do everything to make the exam fun and entertaining for them. We are always happy to schedule around your baby’s schedule for naps, etc., to make it convenient for you.

A 10-minute check-up can make a huge difference in your child’s vision should a problem be present. For example, an eye turn can be treated much more successfully in infancy than in later childhood. The same holds true for any of the congenital eye diseases. We also provide emergency eye exams for infants or any patients for eye infections, injuries, etc.

Congratulations - You are a parent!

Unfortunately, children do not come with a handy user’s manual so here’s something you may not already know. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that your baby’s first eye exam be done by age six months. Unless you have any concerns then of course you should bring your baby in immediately.

The idea of an eye exam for a baby may seem unusual but because in cases of eye turns, congenital eye diseases, etc., the earlier intervention the better the success of the treatment. An eye exam for your baby is very simple, quick, non-invasive and painless. All children are covered completely

by Saskatchewan Health for eye examinations from birth until they turn 18. This exam will test everything we test for adults only done in a different way: eye health, eye muscles and alignment and prescription. Most infant exams are very routine and everything is perfect with baby’s eyes, but having the exam can give you that reassurance.

Call us today at 586-7036 or visit us at 500-4010 Pasqua St and make your baby’s first test an eye exam!

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sport, recreation and travel It’s not a job you’ll see on career day, but the New York Times recently named it one of the coolest jobs in America. Saskatchewan’s Greg Johnson can attest to that. He is the

TORNADO HUNTER

BY TAMMY ROBERT. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GREG JOHNSON

Tornado Hunter Greg Johnson does not take the road most travelled—a sentiment that applies not only to his journey through life so far, but literally.

Having put over 50,000 kilometres on his sport utility vehicle (dubbed ‘The Tornado Truck’) over the spring and summer months of 2011, much of those kilometres were spent plowing down rutted, muddy dirt roads and flooded backwood country trails, chasing the elusive beauty and splendor of Mother Nature’s most impressive temper tantrums.

As a young man growing up in Ontario,

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a graduate of Nova Scotia’s prestigious Acadia University and a political staffer full of potential on Ottawa’s Parliament Hill, Johnson once didn’t appear to fit the mold of a future bold adventurer. Fast forward to January 2011, and Johnson has just sold his successful Regina-based marketing firm, freeing him up to pursue his longtime dream of photographing severe weather displays full-time.

Johnson credits his mother and father as inspiring him to take a chance and run after his dream. “My parents are in their mid-sixties and they have travelled all over the world, recently hitting the sum-

mits of several mountain peaks in Peru,” explains Johnson. “My grandfather shared the same free spirit—until he was in his late 80’s he would rent a berth on a ship and then find out where it was sailing. He would take his bike to tour around whatever country he ended up in. At age 87 he was cycling 100 kilometres a day in New Zealand. This is the legacy that was passed on to me, and I am making damn sure that I set the same example for my children.”

For his first professional storm-chasing season, Johnson couldn’t have asked for more material, which is not always a good thing for those on the ground. “As the 2011

thunderstorm season drew to a close on the northern plains I am looking back on a year of incredible and historic storms.

There was the ‘Super Outbreak’ of April 27 in the southeast United States, the flooding in the Missouri and Mississippi watersheds, the driest and hottest year on record for Oklahoma and Texas, the deadliest tornado in United States’ history at Joplin, the numerous festival stage collapses and closer to home, the devastating floods in southeast Saskatchewan.”

In May of this year, while traveling through the United States’ Tornado Alley at the peak of its severe weather season, he witnessed the highest of highs, and lowest of lows.

“One day we intercepted two impressive, non-destructive tornadoes –there is a euphoric kind of high that comes with witnessing something like that. The next

day we heard about Joplin, and hours later were standing in its epicentre. Looking 360 degrees around you, everything is wiped out, and search and rescue teams are looking for bodies. It was life-changing, and gave me a whole new perspective on what I needed to do. It made sense for me to try and educate people—not only about the aftermath of these types of occurrences, but about what needs to happen, what warning systems we need.”

Back in Saskatchewan, while Saskatoon residents have seen little to no severe weather action this summer (save two memorably intense cells), the southern half of the province, including the city of Regina, were plagued by intense systems tearing through almost daily. Elsewhere fared little better, says Johnson.

“We’ve seen destructive tornados plough through Big River and Hafford. Residents,

tourists and businesses up at Waskesiu will never forget getting pounded with grapefruit-size hail for over an hour.”

Beyond the goals of educating people on storm safety and emergency preparedness while raising awareness for better warning systems, it’s the love of the game— photography—that really keeps Johnson passionate. “I’m a photographer... for me, it’s all about the end result: the stunning pictures. For me, severe weather is one of the most elusive, magnificent and beautiful subjects I could photograph. There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as getting into the heart of the action... the adrenaline rush, and then coming out with the pictures to ensure the story never dies.”

A proponent of the ‘bucket-list’ philosophy, Johnson uses this mindset as motivation to chase the benefits of everything

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life has to offer him and his family. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman immortalized this philosophy in the 2008 film of the same name, reinventing the notion of living life as if there was no tomorrow.

Every individual has their own ideas and dreams they’d like to see reach fruition, but until they complete their own list, Johnson hopes to inspire others to begin living like every moment is precious, aspiring to accomplish whatever they wish.

“I realized back in January that there was no time like the present to get started. I was ready to pursue my passion full-time. I had more to offer and that I wanted to do work that would allow me to travel, while ensuring my children will forever understand the value of setting goals, and appreciate the fullness of what life in Canada can offer.

“I want to be able to say that I did something differently.” FLR www.tornadohunter.ca

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Don’t let your game go over the winter

BY RYAN HOLOTA y the end of the golf season, your game has hit its stride.

Months of working on your swing have given you the longest drives you’ve ever had, and you are gradually working out that slice that plagues your drive off the tee.

How does that compare to the first game that you play in April or May? Over winter, your muscle memory has deteriorated, your swing has gotten sloppy, and that slice is back in full force. It might take you three or four weeks of playing to get back into the groove.

It doesn’t need to be that way. Garth Zummack, of Zummacks Personalized Golf Academy, can not only help you retain your game over the winter, he can help improve it. Offering oneon-one lessons for players of any age and skill level, Zummack focuses not on the equipment, but on the player. “I don’t sell golf equipment or gimmicks. My focus is on improving the athlete. Golf is an athletic endeavor, and if you work on improving the athlete you will improve the game,” says Zummack.

Zummack begins with each student by studying the way they play and the results they get. “In golf there are fundamentals that can help people improve their game: grip, stance, posture, and swing. But every body has its own unique style. The goal is never to get you to imitate someone else’s swing, but to help you perfect your own swing in order to get the club head back to square at impact. When you do that, the ball goes straight and long.”

Offering lessons as individual 45 minute sessions or as lesson packs with five 45 minute sessions and 10 30 minute sessions at the indoor range, Zummack can train you to hit the ball straight and true. His lessons also make a great gift for those hard to buy for people in your life, a gift that the recipient will remember as long as they play.

Before the winter doldrums set in, give Garth a call at (306) 757-7266. Your game will get better and you will enjoy your time on the course more.

Zummack’s Personalized Golf Academy 2460 7th Avenue Regina, Sk. 306.757.7266

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Left to right: CaroLyn genest, Mayor Jerrod sChafer, Candy MCBride, don rosten, don Urzada, edMUnd BeLLegarde, and Marty soLBerg. Photo By tayLor MCBride

d3h HOTELS BREAK GROUND I

n partnership with File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council, Saskatoon-based d3h Hotels Inc. announced the construction of the Home Inn & Suites hotel in Swift Current at the ground breaking celebration held July 22, 2011 in Swift Current.

Mayor Jerrod Schafer of Swift Current, City Councilors, Grand Chief Edmund Bellegarde of FHQTC, and the Director of Business Development for the City of Swift Current, Marty Solberg were in attendance showing their unwavering support of this new project.

Mayor Jerrod Schafer noted, “The quality is something that our community should be proud of and I think it’s going to be a real showcase housing for tourists or

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business people that are coming. People are stopping to make Swift Current more and more of a destination all the time, for many events like the Windscape Kite Festival, Broncos Hockey, all different events in Swift Current, so this is going to be a real feather in our cap.”

The hotel will be located next to the Living Sky Casino and Sky Centre and the closest hotel to the Swift Current Mall. This innovative project is the first partnership between the owners of the Living Sky Casino and Sky Centre, File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council, and d3h Hotels. “I really want to acknowledge and thank d3h Hotels and their partners, their staff and construction crew for venturing forth with us in this unique partnership. I

believe it’s one of the first of its kind for some of the partners within d3h Hotels and I’d really like to commend and thank them for their foresight and courage to get into partnerships with First Nations people,” said Chief Edmund Bellegarde, Grand Chief of the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council. “Being a developer is not a traditional role that First Nations have always had in the economy. It is something that we need – strong partnerships – not only the First Nations business community but also the public in the City of Swift Current, so I really want to acknowledge that strength of those partnerships and the fostering that has happened, not only in the short term but for many years.”

CHIEf EDmUND BELLEGARDE Of fILE HILLS QU’AppELLE TRIBAL COUNCIL SpEAKING AT THE GROUND BREAKING CELEBRATION IN SwIfT CURRENT

HOmE INN & SUITES – SwIfT CURRENT wILL BE LOCATED NExT TO LIvING SKy CASINO

“d3h Hotels is very pleased to be coming to the City of Swift Current,” said Don Rosten, CEO of d3h Hotels Inc. “We decided that this would be a good fit as we have hotels along HWY#1 and it is a natural stopping point between our existing d3h Hotels in Regina and Medicine Hat. We believe Swift Current has a strong economy and we feel, in partnership with FHQTC, we can bring a unique product to the City of Swift Current.” The Home Inn & Suites brand philosophy is to provide the best mix of hotel amenities and home comforts to today’s traveller looking for an upgraded stay experience at a reasonable price point.

HOmE INN & SUITES Home Inn & Suites in Swift Current and Yorkton will house a combination of 80 limited service type rooms to larger suites with full kitchen. The limited service type rooms will feature 15ft desk unit, 42” plasma flat screen TV, mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, iHome Alarm clock with mp3 connect, and luxurious triple sheeting which is cleaned daily. The suites will include a kitchen with a fullsize fridge, induction cooktop, microwave, and upgraded granite countertops. Four of the suites will be extravagant high-end suites which include all the features of the regular suites plus dual sink, glass shower and Jacuzzi tub, island and bar stools, pod coffee maker, separate living area with large work desk and much more.

Other features of Home Inn & Suites include free HomeEssentials breakfast

with hot items, relaxing indoor pool area with 2-story waterslide and whirlpool, and business centre with printing and faxing capabilities. New to the Home franchise is the addition of meeting/event space with capacity up to 30 people featuring built-in LCD projector and whiteboard, large windows and exquisite French door access to an outside patio, exceptional for small weddings, reunions, and small gatherings.

The Home Inn & Suites will also feature a tranquil and serene full service salon and spa. This salon and spa is accessible from within and outside the hotel for all guests and locals and offers all types of treatments including facials, massages, waxing, manicures, pedicures, hair styling/colour/treatments and special occasion bookings and packages. The full-service salon and spa will also feature side by side massage tables for couples and open spa lounge area for small group bookings of 6 to 8 people.

ABOUT d3h HOTELS Based in Saskatoon, d3h Hotels is a hotel management company that owns and operates nine hotels across Western Canada with its two new and upcoming builds of Home Inn & Suites - Swift Current and Home Inn & Suites - Yorkton starting in the fall of 2011. Over the past 13 years, d3h Hotels has gained extensive knowledge and experience in the design and construction of hotels. The company recently celebrated its 10th build, pushing this young management company to

retain the honour of being the largest franchisee of Days Inns in Canada. “d3h Hotels exemplifies the very best in hotel ownership and management,” said Irwin Prince, president and COO of Realstar Hospitality. “Every member of their team is fully engaged in providing ‘above-andbeyond’ service to their guests, and d3h’s ongoing focus on customer satisfaction and operational excellence is a testament to their success. Everyone in the company, from corporate office to hotel level, is truly a delight to work with!”

Saskatchewan’s “best kept secret” not only builds, owns and manages hotels but also franchises the Home brand to potential hoteliers. The HomeSuites and Home Inn & Suites franchise offers hassle-free, turnkey solutions that will allow the franchisee to focus on running a profitable business from day one.

For more information about d3h, and the Home Franchise, please visit its newly redesigned website at www.d3h.ca. FLS d3h Hotels 1139 - 8th Street E. Saskatoon, SK 306.249.2882 www.d3h.ca Home Inn & Suites – Swift Current 306.778.7788 www.HomeSuitesSwiftCurrent.ca Home Inn & Suites – Yorkton 306.782.7829 www.HomeSuitesYorkton.ca

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ASCHERA ROSE DANCE WHERE THE FOCUS IS YOU

BY MACKENZIE BROOKS

ince 1997, Beve Gardner—or Aschera Rose, as she is known in the dance community—has been coaxing students out of their shells and molding them into the dancers they have always wanted to be. As a seasoned instructor, Beve has a message for all those new students who have been waiting to get out there and shine like the stars they are: Your time is now.

“I’ve heard from so many students over the years that they have always wanted to try a belly dance class, but have not because something always held them back,” said Beve. “I think that many students have a preconceived idea of what belly dance is, and think that you have to be a certain body type, size or age to come to class. What I love best about teaching belly dance is that when a new student finds that they can do something they’ve always wanted to do, they actually

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become who they have always wanted to be. Witnessing the self-confidence and subsequent positive body image my students develop through class is the best part about being an instructor.”

With a background in recreation administration and fine arts, as well as being a certified group fitness instructor and RAMED (Regina Association of

Middle Eastern Dance) accredited dance teacher, Beve guides you through classes with supreme skill and maintains the class focus on learning and enjoying yourself.

“Where you take it from there is up to you,” said Beve. “I have some students who have been with me for years, and they have developed into beautiful dancers, each with their own talents and personality.”

combination moves and timing. Beve offers these classes and many others throughout the week and in varying locations around the city. At reasonable rates, there is a class for each and every new student out there who has been waiting to enroll—and many for continuing students too. Find something you love and watch how this dance will change your life.

Beve’s classes focus on fun and fitness because no one wants to go to the same old class with the same old results, and, well, hanging out with Beve is pretty fun too. Her personality pervades her work. In class, Beve pushes you to work hard and explore who you really want to be through technique, timing and artistry. The beauty of belly dance is that the dance form combines these with a fun and effective work out.

If you are looking for that next (dance) step in fitness, fun and personal growth, find your way to a class with Aschera Rose Dance. For when you need to reach that next fitness level, Beve also offers individualized personal training and boot camps to boost your regular fitness routine.

Find your artistic side and express your unique individuality with Beve Gardner and Aschera Rose Dance.

“I love when a new student gets really hooked on the music, the delivery and the performance of the dance,” said Beve. “If you don’t give it a try now, you never know where you might end up! Many of my students are now in my performing dance troupes—Zarifah and the Deadly Dames— and we’ve grown together as dancers and friends.”

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

Aschera Rose Dance Studio Regina, Sk. 306.526.9985 info@ascherarose.ca www.ascherarose.ca

JOSEFA

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

RAJA

Contact Beve for training, performance bookings and classes at 526-9985 or on the web at www.ascherarose.ca. E-mail her directly at info@ascherarose.ca. FLR

This fall’s schedule offers two new introductory classes: Urban Belly Dance and Introduction to Burlesque. The primary focus of the Urban Belly Dance class is on Shaabi style and is designed to be fun, saucy and lighthearted. So too is Beve’s introduction to burlesque, based largely on the classic style of the original Vaudeville shows. Each class touches on stage technique and sensuality as well as learned

Tickets $10

Available at:

2011-2012 Regina Pats Home Game Schedule Friday, September 23 Friday, October 7 Saturday, October 8 Thursday, October 20 Sunday, October 23 Friday, October 28 Tuesday, November 1 Saturday, November 5 Sunday, November 6 Thursday, November 10 Friday, December 2 Saturday, December 3 Sunday, December 11 Wednesday, December 14

vs. Swift Current vs. Lethbridge vs. Prince George vs. Calgary vs. Prince Albert (6:00 pm) vs. Edmonton vs. Saskatoon vs. Calgary vs. Medicine Hat (6:00 pm) vs. Moose Jaw vs. Vancouver vs. Red Deer vs. Kamloops (6:00 pm) vs. Kelowna

Friday, December 30 Sunday, January 1 Wednesday, January Pantone 186 Black4 Friday, January 6 Friday, January 13 Sunday, January 15 Wednesday, January 18 Friday, January 20 Saturday, January 21 Friday, January 27 Saturday, February 4 Wednesday, February 8 Monday, February 13 Wednesday, February 22

Tickets $10

vs. Swift Current Friday, February 24 vs. Moose Jaw SWY_TM_Horz_2W.eps vs.File: Edmonton (2:00 pm) Wednesday, February 29 vs. Red Deer Description: Safeway TM Horizontal Signature 2 Color on White vs.Date: Prince Albert Saturday, March 3 vs. Brandon March 23, 2005 vs. Saskatoon Sunday, March 4 vs. Prince Albert (6:00 pm) vs. Victoria Wednesday, March 7 vs. Brandon vs. Saskatoon (6:00 pm) Friday, March 9 vs. Moose Jaw vs. Kootenay Wednesday, March 14 vs. Prince Albert vs. Medicine Hat Friday, March 16 vs. Brandon vs. Moose Jaw vs. Swift Current vs. Lethbridge vs. Brandon vs. Saskatoon *All Home Games start at 7:00pm, vs. Kootenay unless otherwise noted

Available at:

INDIVIDUAL GAME TICKETSRegina ARE AVAILABLE AT: Home Game Schedule 2011-2012 Pats

ADULT - $18.00* Friday, September 23 vs. Swift Current December 30 Swift CurrentCentre.Friday, February 24 vs. Moose Jaw Brandt Centre Box Office, located in the EastFriday, Entrance of thevs.Brandt SENIOR (60+) - $15.00* Friday, October 7 vs. Lethbridge Sunday, January 1 vs. Edmonton (2:00 pm) Wednesday, February 29 vs. Red Deer Hours: MondaySaturday, - Saturday 6:00pm (Game DaysWednesday, 10:00am - 9:00pm) October10:00am 8 vs.- Prince George January 4 vs. Prince Albert Saturday, March STUDENT 3 vs. Brandon (18 & Under) - $8.00* Thursday, October 20 vs. Calgary Friday, January 6 vs. Saskatoon Sunday, March 4 vs. Prince Albert (6:00 pm) OR SPECIAL NEEDS - $8.00 Sunday, October 23 vs. Prince Albert (6:00 pm) Friday, January 13 vs. Victoria Wednesday, March 7 vs.

Brandon October 28 543.7800 vs. Edmonton Sunday, January 15 vs. Saskatoon (6:00 pm) Friday, March 9 vs. Moose JawOffice service charges *Does not include Box TicketmasterFriday, by calling Toll-free: 1.800.970.7328 or Tuesday, November 1 vs. Saskatoon Wednesday, January 18 vs. Kootenay Wednesday, March 14 vs. Prince Albert Saturday, November 5 vs. Calgary Friday, January 20 vs. Medicine Hat Friday, March 16 vs. Brandon Log onto www.ticketmaster.ca Pantone 186

Sunday, November 6 Thursday, November 10 Friday, December 2 Saturday, December 3 Sunday, December 11 Wednesday, December 14

vs. Medicine Hat (6:00 pm) vs. Moose Jaw vs. Vancouver vs. Red Deer vs. Kamloops (6:00 pm) vs. Kelowna

Black

Saturday, January 21 Friday, January 27 Saturday, February 4 Wednesday, February 8 Monday, February 13 Wednesday, February 22

File: SWY_TM_Horz_2W.eps Description: Safeway TM Horizontal Signature 2 Color on White Date: March 23, 2005

vs. Moose Jaw vs. Swift Current vs. Lethbridge vs. Brandon vs. Saskatoon vs. Kootenay

Tickets may be purchased in person at the Brandt Centre Box Office, located at the East End of the Brandt Centre.

reginapats.com

*All Home Games start at 7:00pm, unless otherwise noted

house and home

A TRAVELLING GARDENER Inspirations Abroad

BY KEN BEATTIE

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“What I take home with me are a great many photos (thank goodness for digital) of doors, windows, gates, pergolas and laundry, yes laundry! “

O

ver the years I have been asked many times, in particular as it relates to garden design: “Where does your inspiration come from?” Family and friends seem to think that I am a bottomless pit of clever plant combinations, garden kitsch arrangements and a veritable Capability Brown when I come to visit their gardens.

Like so many other professions, when invited to someone’s home there is an expectation that you will offer some advice, view an ailing plant or in some cases, design a new landscape on the back of a napkin. Truth is that I am blessed with a great memory (so far at least) and I have been so fortunate over my career to be able to travel the globe.

Seeing the world through a gardener’s eyes provides a completely different paradigm I suspect than that of someone of another profession. By example, my

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wife prefers to travel to locales that offer an historical theme, in particular WWII. On the other hand, I prefer the warm breath of Polynesia or the heady scents of a Mediterranean garden. There are naturally many courses of compromise under this scenario; I will toddle off and soak in the countryside villas, urban and public gardens as she plans a trip to a local war museum for the afternoon.

Viewing gardens and landscapes in other regions of the world does have the potential of over-stimulating the creative juices, in particular, if your travels are in countries with dissimilar climatic conditions. Not a great stretch you might say, but I have seen it time and time again where folks have been to Victoria and return to a Saskatchewan garden all bubbly and glowing with rhododendrons planned for their gardens.

I too have, and will most likely continue, to succumb to the “make it in my gar-

den” syndrome. I recall one trip to Tuscany many years back wherein all of the colours, scents and textures of this gorgeous region agreed with us tremendously. We tramped the vineyards, olive groves, gardens and, of course, the requisite museums and art galleries.

Upon returning to our prairie home, we attempted to reconstruct these colours and textures in our rear gardens. This project was very successful and our little piece of Toscana had the power to transport us back there in a heartbeat. This was just the beginning! Sitting inside viewing our little garden through glass in February just didn’t have the same affect, but if we redecorated, changed the flooring, painted here, removed that wall, well you get the picture. Our little Tuscan garden was the catalyst for the redecorating of the entire house, all three floors.

Caution is advised as well as sensibility.

Tuscany, or for that matter, any region

of Italy, will always be a rich and juicy repository of fantastic garden ideas. This region is much older than anything in Canada save the Canadian Shield. The residents have had lots of time to “get it right” when it comes to the garden. However, the approach to what we would call a landscape is profoundly different than our renditions. Casual elegance prevails and nothing seems to be performed or arranged. A term that I use from time to time is “sense of place” referring to incorporating materials of the region into the landscape.

This is precisely what you will see in this and in many other countries of the world.

Local stone installed by local craftspeople, local plants allowed to invade the remains of ancient buildings, huge timbered doors and gates built from local woods.

This entire symphony of textures and materials just blends in such a natural and unassuming way that it may only be a few months old, but to your camera’s and mind’s eyes it is ancient. Above all it fits the local landscape as it is the local landscape.

exceptional product experience unique designs

What I take home with me are a great many photos (thank goodness for digital) of doors, windows, gates, pergolas and laundry, yes laundry! One can tell a great deal about the regular goings on in a community by the laundry on the line perhaps even reaching the heart of the area. The compilation of photos for each region then provides me with the palette from which I can draw my inspiration. I’m used to the fact that many of my doors and gate photos represent eons of time and the countless numbers of people who have passed through them, so, in a way, I build a back story around each photo often times with this translated into a current garden design. In many ways the design of your home, the decking and the gardens along with adjunct buildings and the landscape all must work together to build your story.

There is great tendency in North America to replicate landscapes, which by doing so can provide a rather bland streetscape. Understanding that most new residential projects have architectural guidelines, one way of personalizing your home is to build a unique landscape unlike the rest of the development. You might consider establishing a theme, in keeping with the home of course, that may allow you to incorporate some component of your favourite travel region or destination. Little hints of this destination throughout the landscape are also a clever way to induce a thematic strand, but be careful not to clutter the landscape or be the local “hoarder’s haven.” Too much kitsch in the garden, no matter how glorious or memorable each piece may be, makes for a poor overall impression.

rchitectural design and drafting services for new construction, renovations, custom homes and light commercial projects.

Travel is to my mind one of the best ways to stimulate the senses and, of course, gardening is one of the best ways to express this. Married together and tempered with a dash of reason, a pinch of good taste and simmered over time, your landscape or garden(s) will continue to bring you joy and re-kindle times spent abroad.FLR

design & development contract drafting & custom home design

MARC POISSANT 306.201.5556 info@mlpdesigndev.com

marc poissant

www.mlpdesigndev.com

306.201.5556 mlpdd@sasktel.net

L TO R: JamES PHam, TED DOLINSkI, HaNk WOLBaum, DOug aRcHER, ScOTT YaSINSkI, cOLIN HaggaRTY, cHaLEN kaSPIck

INSURANCE TAILORED TO THE NEEDS OF YOUR LIFE

BY TRILBY HENDERSON

O

ver the past 30 years, Knight Archer Insurance Brokers of Regina has established itself as one of the leading personal insurance brokers in the area, but according to owners Doug and Gloria Archer, the company still has plenty of room to grow.

“At a time when most brokers our age are contemplating retirement, we’re focusing on expansion and developing our business,” Doug said.

This focus on continually improving the business and finding ways to make life easier for their clients was most recently manifested by the significant expansion of Knight Archer’s commercial insurance division. Now, the company not only provides customers with the ability to

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protect their homes and families, they help them make sure their livelihoods are protected as well.

Although Knight Archer employs commercial brokers at its Rochdale Boulevard, Pense and Lumsden locations, its core commercial insurance department is based on the second floor of the company’s Victoria Avenue office. “Here, there are six people who are focused on commercial insurance and who have experience with the bigger and more complex commercial insurance needs,” said Gloria.

Together, Knight Archer’s expert brokerage team brings a total of more than 75 years of commercial insurance experience to the business. The company

is not only able to offer clients access to virtually every commercial insurance provider in the country, but its brokers are equipped with the knowledge needed to help clients evaluate their needs and tailor coverage to fit their business and any supporting insurance requirements they may face, such as those often requested by financial institutions.

Knight Archer works with clients in all industries, from oil and gas, construction, transportation and manufacturing, to non-profit organizations, and is familiar with the risks associated with each. The company’s brokers help clients select from broader coverage options such as property loss and liability insurance to more specialized coverage for things such as mechanical breakdowns

mONIquE FISHER aND YuN mO (i.e. if an electrical system at a restaurant or computer system at an office malfunctions). Group benefit plans, and mortgage and life insurance are other areas of coverage that business owners may want to consider.

If the worst does happen, having the right kind of coverage may be the only thing standing between a once-thriving business and certain business closure.

For example, Gloria said businesses that rely on the expertise or skill of a single individual should consider purchasing key man insurance to guard the business’s profitability against the loss of that person and allow for time to fill his or her role.

Similarly, partnership insurance, in which each business partner insures against the loss of the other, enables the business to pay out the lost partner’s ownership and continue operating. “Those things are pretty important,” she said.

Knight Archer Insurance also houses a separate commercial auto area within its Victoria Avenue office that allows the company to deliver efficient and convenient priority service to its customers. For many

companies, adequate auto insurance involves much more than motor licencing.

They need to consider the number and type of vehicles used, and who will be driving them. Knight Archer works with its clients to manage both their motor licence issuing needs and any excess coverage they require.

Knight Archer Insurance Brokers has an outstanding history in providing personal insurance coverage and its newly expanded commercial insurance department will only strengthen its future in the insurance industry. Two of the Archer’s children are also playing an important role in securing the company’s future as part of Knight Archer’s management team. Their son James Archer leads the company’s mortgage division and social media initiatives, while daughter Tracy Rogoza oversees the extensive personal lines division, both carrying on the Knight Archer tradition of making life easier for their customers.

“We are as enthusiastic and energetic in building our business today as we were 30 years ago when we first got started,” said Doug. FLR

COmmERCIAL INSURANCE OFFICE 306.569.2289 REgINA 512 Victoria Avenue E. Regina, SK S4N 0N7 Phone: 306.569.2288 Fax: 306.359.7177 Toll Free: 1.888.818.5032 4147 Rochdale Boulevard Regina, SK S4X 4P7 Phone: 306.525.8888 Fax: 306.924.1544 CRAvEN Wolfe’s General Store Hwy 20 / Craven, SK S0G 0W0 Phone: 306.731.3288 PENSE 331 Brunswick St Pense, Saskatchewan S0G 3W0 Phone: 306.345.2216

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EXPERTAdvice HOME STAGING Why should I home stage?

AFTER

BEFORE

This house was vacant and the owners tried to sell it for several months but were not able to get enough viewings to bring in a decent offer. The owners called us to Stage it, then listed it on MLS with a Realtor. It sold for a much better price in just over a month

market, there is not only more inventory, there is more staged inventory. And if you are not staging your property before it goes on the market, you are in fact helping your competition!

Are there any statistics to support investing in home staging?

Di Thompson

Simply Stunning Designs phone: 306.585.0775 | cel: 306.581.7750 dithompson@sasktel.net www.simplystunningdesigns.ca Home staging is an investment, and in fact it is the best short-term investment a home seller can make. For most people, their home is the most valuable financial asset they own. Maximizing the return on the sale of this asset is one of life’s most important financial objectives.

When listing your house bear in mind that most people start their search on the internet. They will take virtual tours or view photo’s of the house. If your home is not visually appealing at this stage, chances are greater that you will not attract potential buyers.

But we’re moving - why should we spend a lot of money on decorating now?

Staging isn’t decorating. Staging is marketing! 87% of ALL home buyers and 94% of buyers aged 25 to 44 used the Internet to search for homes. Staging continues to be a valuable tool to gain more buyer interest beginning with their initial search on the Internet. Properties are being eliminated from the “must see” list, based on photographs from the Internet advertising. In a tough

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Statistics show that staged properties sell for more money and faster than comparables that are not home staged. The Real Estate Staging Association’s Statistics Report released in February 2009, documented the following: • In 2007, vacant properties, previously on the market unsold for over 4 months, were then staged and sold in 6 weeks (68% fewer days on market).

• In 2008, vacant properties, previously on the market unsold for over 6 months, were then staged and sold in 4 weeks (85% fewer days on market).

• In 2007, occupied properties, previously on the market unsold for over 3 months, were then staged and sold in 6 weeks (47% fewer days on the market).

selling. However, buyers are making decisions based on their perception of value. A Maritz survey found that 63% of buyers will pay more for move-in ready homes. Professionally staged properties will appeal to a majority of buyers and increase the probability of increased buyer interest.

How much does home staging cost?

Home staging fees vary depending on the scope of each project. However, home staging almost always costs less than the first price reduction.

Di Thompson – Owner, Lead Designer of Simply Stunning Designs. I took my staging training in Regina in September 2006 through the Canadian Staging Professionals, as well as completing an Interior Design Course in the early 90s, and have been artistic all my life.

I would like to announce that I have recently hired another stager to assist me, as the business is growing.

• In 2008, occupied properties, previously on the market unsold for 2 months, were then staged and sold in 1 week (90% fewer days on the market).

Can’t buyers just visualize how the place will look with their own stuff?

In a word, “no”. The majority of people cannot visualize and will base decisions solely on what they see. And they will make up their minds in a matter of seconds. Studies have proven that potential buyers decide on buying a home within the first twenty seconds.

In a tough market, doesn’t it all come down to price?

Realistic pricing is absolutely essential to

Lynda Daly – Staging Designer, took her training in Interior Staging and Design in Dublin in 2006. She started her own company in Ireland, offering design consultations and staging for five years until moving with her family to Regina in February 2011. Her projects ranged from commercial to residential across Ireland. Lynda and I work well together and offer fresh ideas and have fun combining styles.FHR

Everything I Want Is Here RESIDENT AMENITIES AND SERVICES At Chartwell Select Renaissance Retirement Residence it is our priority to make your lifestyle as comfortable and worry-free as possible. Whether you enjoy quiet time in the fireside lounge, or relax on our beautiful patio, our numerous amenities are available to enhance your enjoyment, all the while ensuring your safety and convenience.

• Studios, One Bedrooms, One Bedroom and Den, Two Bedrooms • Fire Alarm Systems/ Smoke Detectors/ Sprinkler System/ Emergency Lighting • Pre-wired for phone and cable • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower • Kitchenettes • Attractive gardened patio • Covered resident parking available • 24 hour emergency response staff • Weekly housekeeping • Air conditioning in common areas and suite • Complimentary resident laundry facilities • Arrangement of transportation to and from doctor/lab appointments & shopping • Environmentally efficient Geothermal and Solar heating • Full service dining room • Private dining room • Multi-purpose room • Daily exercise program • Activity room • Hair Salon

• Games room • Library and Computer room • Country Kitchen • Theatre/ Chapel • Private Spa Rooms • Storage Lockers available

1801 MCINTYRE ST. | REGINA, SK. | 306.525.8686 | WWW.CHARTWELLREIT.CA

L TO R: TROY GORDON, TIm LIpp, JESSIca DuNN, GORDIE cHaN, SEaN maLcOLm, aSHLEE DRummOND, JaSON RumpEL

WOULDN’T YOU F RATHER HAVE A WHOLE TEAM BEHIND YOU?

or some REALTORS®, success is not measured by sales numbers, but by the lasting relationships they form with their clients, communities and peers. Judging by their number of repeat and referred customers, the Phil Robertson Team at Royal LePage Regina Realty has already achieved success, but that hasn’t stopped them from pushing the bar on service delivery and setting new industry trends by using technology to better meet their clients’ needs.

BY TRILBY HENDERSON

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The Phil Robertson Team consists of seven Royal LePage REALTORS®: Tim Lipp, Jessica Dunn, Gordie Chan, Troy Gordon, Jason Rumpel, Sean Malcolm, and Ashlee Drummond. They call themselves the Phil Robertson Team

into a hub of information that covers all aspects of the home buying and selling process.

As with most standard real estate sites, buyers can easily search through hundreds of properties and narrow down their options by entering their preferences for living space, property type, location and budget. However, the Phil Robertson Team’s website also features thorough descriptions of the different neighbourhoods in the city, including information on schools, amenities, and past property sales.

By visiting the website’s online resource guides, ‘Ask the Experts’ section and blog, clients can access abundant information on topics ranging from mortgages to moving to home maintenance.

The part of the website that seems to have impressed clients on both sides of the home buying and selling process the most are the professionally filmed and narrated videos of homes on the market.

For buyers, they provide an opportunity to “walk” through the home, and get a better sense of how the home’s layout may meet their needs. For sellers, the high-quality videos are a great way to showcase their home’s best features.

in reference to the Regina real estate broker who served as their leader and mentor. The team members have chosen to capitalize on the support network they have created and continue to offer their clients’ the benefit of nearly 30 years of combined experience.

The team’s mission is to deliver “high quality, industry leading and innovative real estate services through leading edge technology.” One of the most evident examples of how they have put their forward-thinking, technology-focused approach to customer service into

practice is their newly launched website— www.yqrhomes.ca.

“We wanted to make sure this tool for our clients was the best that it could be,” said Dunn. “There is a lot of educational information packed on here that will be of value to our clients.”

In order to choose the right home, buyers need to know much more than the number of bedrooms or bathrooms and the square footage. As such, the Phil Robertson Team chose to take their website beyond a simple listings database and transform it

Ultimately, the team’s new website complements the personal, comprehensive service each member strives to provide to his or her customers.

By negotiating on behalf of their client, and serving as a buffer between the buyer and seller, Chan said they are able to take a lot of the emotion out of the transaction, making it less stressful and more enjoyable for all parties involved.

Dunn adds that team members also bring a refreshing genuineness to the process. “[We] are in this industry because we love working with people and helping them in this big transaction,” she said.

“We gain a lot of friends—it’s more about the relationship.”

The value that each member of the Phil Robertson Team places on the

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Gordie chan REALTOR® gordie.chan@gmail.com C. 306.737.8888

ashlee Drummond REALTOR®

Jessica Dunn REALTOR®

ashlee@royallepage.ca C. 306.502.3948

jessica@royallepage.ca C. 306.531.8578

Troy Gordon REALTOR®

Tim Lipp REALTOR®

troy@royallepage.ca C. 306.530.7862

timlipp@sasktel.net C. 306.737.8960

Sean malcolm REALTOR®

Jason Rumpel REALTOR®

seanmalcolm@royallepage.ca C. 306.527.0615

jrumpel@royallepage.ca C. 306.535.1478

relationships they have formed can be witnessed through their ongoing efforts to support the communities they serve. The team avidly participates in Royal LePage’s chosen charity—the Shelter Foundation— by hosting a large annual garage sale in Emerald Park and donating all of the proceeds toward women’s shelters in Regina. In addition to the other charitable efforts they tackle as a group, each

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member also has their own unique way of giving back, from coaching sports teams to serving causes such as the Special Olympics.

The Phil Robertson Team invites you to visit their website at www.yqrhomes.ca for a comprehensive resource on all things real estate related in Regina. FLR

Royal LePage Regina Realty 3889 Arcola Ave. E. Regina SK S4V 1P5 www.yqrhomes.ca

The seeds of inspiration

THE FIRST SOY-BASED ECO AND HEALTH-FRIENDLY FACTORY-FINISHED FLOORING

Alford’s AVAILABLE AT:

Alford’s Floors and Interiors 1601 4th Ave. | Regina, Sk. 306.522.5651 www.alfords.ca www.mercierwoodflooring.com

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L TO R: GReG SchMaLeNBeRG, w. BReTT wiLSON, dave SchMaLeNBeRG

FROGBOX: The New STaNdaRd iN MOviNG

BY MackeNzie BROOkS

N

ew to Regina but blossoming as a growing company all across Canada, FROGBOX is who you need when it’s time to move. Whether residential or commercial, in town and even between major Canadian cities, FROGBOX guarantees an efficient move that reduces stress—on you and on the earth.

What sets FROGBOX apart from the standard moving experience is its efficiency.

In three easy steps, the new standard in moving is delivered directly to your door.

Contact FROGBOX, they drop off their green, reusable and sanitized plastic boxes, you pack and move and FROGBOX comes to collect them when you’re done.

It really is that easy.

“What’s best about FROGBOX’s service is that it’s a greener and simpler way to

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move,” explained Dave Schmalenberg, part owner of the company. “By providing you with FROGBOX reusable boxes you’ll save time by not having to look for cardboard boxes.”

“On average cardboard boxes are used twice and then sent to the landfill, while FROGBOX boxes can be reused up to four hundred times,” continued his brother, and business partner, Greg Schmalenberg. “With FROGBOX, you gain your time back, and less waste makes its way into our landfills. Moving is one of the most stressful life events. FROGBOX just makes it easier.”

Because FROGBOX is a family company itself, they recognize that less time spent packing and moving means more time spent with your family. “We saw a need in

Regina for this kind of service,” said Dave and Greg. “FROGBOX allows our family to be together—and yours too.”

For residential movers (and we’ve all been there), it can be difficult to find the space to store your boxed possessions while waiting to move them. FROGBOX boxes nest and stack to maximize your space and because they stack up better (literally!) against their standard cardboard competitors, you also save space in the moving van, make fewer trips to your new home and reduce the use of fuel and carbon emissions. For commercial moves, FROGBOX ensures that your company expends zero man-hours locating, taping and breaking down cardboard boxes and even offers secure FROGBOX boxes for sensitive documents and personal information ensuring that privacy of your

Our eco-friendly plastic moving boxes make packing quicker and easier.

company’s files and clients’ information is never compromised while moving between locations.

• No more building and taping cardboard moving boxes. FROGBOXeS are roomy and don’t collapse.

FROGBOX clients are happy with the new green service, affordability and the diligent customer service that the Regina team offers. FROGBOX will always be on time for your delivery and pick-up—and time is of the essence when it comes to moving. No one has time for inefficiency when moving, and waiting on a delivery is never an issue with FROGBOX. In fact, FROGBOX operates on such an efficient business model, that not only are homeowners and commercial clients taking notice, but major business players are as well.

• FROGBOXeS are much easier to handle than cardboard. They stack perfectly, protect your valuables, and are waterproof and have ergonomic handles.

• FROGBOX also offers dollies to make your move even easier.

L TO R: (Back ROw) kYLa, GReG, dave RhYaN, TaYLOR aNd BeN

Investor and well-known personality from CBC’s hit show ‘Dragons’ Den’ W. Brett Wilson on FROGBOX: “One of the questions I ask myself before investing in a company is: “What problem is it solving?” With FROGBOX, the answer is obvious. Everyone has experienced the hassle of moving and the limitations of flimsy cardboard boxes. By home-delivering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to cardboard, FROGBOX is relieving stress for the 5.5 million Canadians who pack up every year. Why has FROGBOX grown from three locations in Canada to 20 throughout North America in the past six months? Because they make moving easier—and who doesn’t want that?”

Contact Dave and Greg at FROGBOX in Regina at 539-3764 (FROG) or book their green service online at www.frogbox.com/Regina to experience moving and business efficiency that has made even Dragons sit up and take notice. FLR

The Regina FROGBOX Team 306.539.FROG (3764) Reginafrogbox@gmail.com www.frogbox.com/Regina

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“When you buy, use your eyes and your mind, not just your ears.”

-Czechoslovakian proverb

ent Bittner, broker/owner with Dominion Lending CentresBittner Mortgages works with a vast array of clients. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer with a five per cent down payment or a sophisticated real estate investor seeking your 10th rental property or a vacation condo in Arizona, meeting with a licensed mortgage professional is a must.

Kent, originally from Abernethy, Saskatchewan, has been in the financial services/mortgage business for 10 years and with Dominion Lending Centres for five. Kent graduated from the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Commerce in 1999 and has resided in Regina ever since. He’s passionate and professional, and will work hard to find the best route to meet each and every client’s goals.

Brokers Have Options

DOMINION LENDING CENTRES - BITTNER MORTGAGES Working for you while turning Dreams Into Reality

BY LISA DEGELMAN PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

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“A free consultation will allow me to explore different options and determine the best available mortgage product and rate catered to your specific needs.

My role as a licensed broker is to work with you to determine financial goals, risk tolerance and financial capacity to tailor-fit you with the best mortgage product available,” explains Kent. As such, he has a wide variety of products available to him through dozens of lenders. During your initial consultation you can expect Kent to review options available to you within the marketplace.

Kent works extensively with solutions for self-employed borrowers and real estate investors and is able to position

rate. They returned to their manager, informed him of my rate and the bank matched it. But, when they purchased their second home, it hit them that they didn’t need to go back and forth with their bank. They came to me right away, I searched for the best product for their needs and I saved them thousands of dollars in interest.”

Kent works for you. The banker works for the bank shareholder. There is a reason why bank stocks pay sizeable dividend— they make money. Buyers are catching on that mortgage brokers will provide them with the trust, confidence and security they need in finding the best mortgage for their investment. FLR

Kent Bittner

to educate people on what a mortgage broker can do for them. “This manner Broker / Owner of purchasing is really in its infancy, so Tel: I want to306.569.7050 provide the knowledge and www.kentbittner.ca comfort level needed for people to allow a broker to work with them throughout Dominion Lending Centres – Canadian Mortgage Network the home-buying and mortgage financing The services are free as brokers are Independently Owned & Operated processes,” says Kent. compensated by the institutions where your mortgage is placed. Brokers send Second, they want to make each and every millions of dollars in business each year purchaser aware of the many mortgage to Canada’s largest banks, credit unions, options available to them before they trust companies and financial institutions make a purchase. helping provide more choice and access to hundreds of products. the Tax Deductible Mortgage Plan (www. reginatdmp.ca) for qualified borrowers.

Many of these products and services are not available through your traditional bank or financial institution.

Bittner Mortgages is Not Just Kent Kent is proud to work with a professional, knowledgeable and efficient team. “Over the past few years, with the housing boom, there have been more and more brokers popping up. My business is unique in that I have a direct team consisting of three commissioned brokers, a broker assistant and an office administrator.”

The team’s goal is twofold. They want

New Financial Comfort Zone

Over the past five years, Kent has noticed a change in Saskatchewan’s mortgage trends. People are becoming more at ease with establishing a relationship with a broker and realizing that they don’t need to use a bank or credit union that their parents have used for the past 40 years.

Kent shares a story. “I had clients who met with me after meeting with their bank manager and I found them a lower interest

Dominion Lending Centres- Bittner Mortgages Licence #316039 Kent Bittner Broker License # 316017 306.569.7050 kent@bittnermortgages.com www.kentbittner.ca

Unleash the glossy beaUty of concrete by ryan holota

T

he amount of concrete in Regina is mind-blowing. Miles of sidewalks.

Hundreds of buildings. Thousands of garages, warehouses, and showrooms.

Concrete is ubiquitous, but most people don’t think of it as beautiful.

Most people, however, aren’t Curtis Brown and John Galinksi. As the owners of GlossWorks, decorative polishing for concrete, terrazzo, and stone, they know that concrete has a beauty that is unmatched; you just need to do a little bit of work to uncover it. What’s more, the finished surface is more than beautiful, it is also safer and more cost-effective than other flooring solutions.

Concrete is porous. That means it has millions of tiny holes in it that absorb stains,

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collect dust, and allow moisture to get in and damage and pit the surface. In the past, the only way to keep a concrete floor in good shape has been to paint it or wax it.

Now there is a better way.

Using various grits of diamond tooling, GlossWorks grinds down minute imperfections on the surface of the concrete, eventually polishing the floor to a mirror-like shine.

This new shine isn’t achieved through the use of chemicals or coatings – the actual concrete has been ground, polished, and buffed. The resulting surface is a modern miracle—the floor looks like a million dollars, never requires painting, stripping, or waxing again, and lasts almost forever. In fact, if the floor ever does start to dull, a few quick passes with a buffing wheel will bring the shine right back.

Businesses with concrete, terrazzo, or stone floors typically spend between $1.75 to $2.00 per square foot per year to maintain them via waxing, sealing, or painting. The maintenance cost of a polished floor is virtually zero, since regular washing is the only thing required to keep it looking great. Having a polished floor will also eliminate the costs of lost productivity, extra man hours, chemicals, and downtime that results from needing to have your floors stripped, waxed, buffed, and left to dry.

Businesses with old, worn carpet, tile, or linoleum are in luck too. In almost all commercial spaces, there is a concrete floor hiding underneath the existing floor covering. GlossWorks can strip away that nasty old flooring and unleash the beauty of the concrete hidden beneath.

If you like the look of concrete, but aren’t ready to commit your entire home to concrete flooring, consider the beauty, durability, and versatility of concrete countertops for your home. Once polished, they provide the same beauty and longevity that concrete floors do. Think about it, if a dump truck won’t hurt it, your hot pots and pans will never damage the finish. For a truly unique finish, consider adding pieces of glass, marble, or stone to the concrete. GlossWorks can even add custom fiber optic lighting to the concrete. Imagine turning the lights down low in your kitchen and having your countertops gently twinkle in the background. Stunning!

r before

garage floo

While the mirror surface left behind may look slippery, it actually has a higher friction co-efficient than an unpolished floor, meaning that the floor has more grip, wet or dry, than unfinished concrete. In fact, the floor meets or exceeds OSHA requirements for workplace floors.

If the beauty of natural polished concrete isn’t enough for you, GlossWorks can also apply a number of decorative treatments, such as staining and stenciling, which can lend colour and pattern to your floors. The floors are then polished, sealing in the colour and design forever. This finish is perfect for garages, basements, warehouses, retail spaces, even the living spaces of homes.

If you have a space that you want protected but don’t think polishing is the right way to go, they also offer an industrial quality sealer. This sealer will still need to be redone from time to time, but it will far outlast the product that you can buy at your local home improvement store. GlossWorks also offers a stone restoration service

garage floor after

When you’re ready to take your existing concrete floors from blah to WOW, or want to add some beauty to your home, give Brown and Galinski a call at 7375194, or head over to www.glossworksonline.com. They have much more information about the process, possibilities, and photographs of their finished work. If you are still unsure, they will even polish a small section of your floor for you, so you can see and feel how great polished concrete truly is. FLR

that can bring new life to old stone, marble, slate, and more. You can save thousands of dollars by revitalizing an existing surface rather than replacing it.

Business and home owners concerned about the environment will also be pleased to know that the GlossWorks polishing process is entirely ‘green,’ and is LEED certified in every aspect— process, chemicals, and ongoing maintenance.

GlossWorks Concrete Polishing Inc. Curtis Brown and John Galinski 306.737.5194 Toll-Free: 1.855.445.6778 info@glossworksonline.com www.glossworksonline.com

before slate staIrs

slate staIrs after

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The seeds of inspiration

THE FIRST SOY-BASED ECO AND HEALTH-FRIENDLY FACTORY-FINISHED FLOORING AVAILABLE AT: The Floor Store 104 Hwy 47 S | Estevan, Sk. 306.634.5588 www.mercierwoodflooring.com

How Are Our Installers Different? Just Ask Our Customers.

“Super Job!” “Clean, Neat & Polite” “Pleasant, Courteous” “Very Knowledgeable” “Informative” “Impressive Workmanship” “Professional” “Personable”

“Excellent Service & Workmanship” “Outstanding” “Fantastic” “Punctual” “Very Pleased” “Definitely Would Recommend” “Company Is Top Notch!”

“Installers Were Terrific!”

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We are proud of the “Quality of Products, Service and Workmanship” we provide.

410 Quebec St Regina, Sk. | 306.545.3990 | www.glacierglass.ca Family owned and operated for over 30 years

Creating Free Time For Busy People

The friendly, courteous, exceptionally trained staff are ready to make your home sparkle • Reasonable Rates • Services Offered: Biweekly, Weekly, Monthly, Move In/Out Clean, New Construction Clean, Renovation Clean, Office • Same Cleaners In Your Home

Tidy Time Saver Professional Cleaning Service

Proudly Exceeding Expectations in Regina and Surrounding Areas for over 11 Years

1750 McAra Street Sharla Shaw 306.546.1505 sharlashaw@tidytimesaver.com www.tidytimesaver.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF BUDGET BLINDS

BLOCK LIGHT—SLEEP TIGHT

BY LISA DEGELMAN he sleep industry has become a $23.7 billion a year industry. “Industry” including: anti-insomnia drugs (over-the-counter and prescription), sleep labs/sleep centres, mattresses and pillows, continuous positive airway pressure machines (CPAP’s) and retail sleep aids (earplugs, sleep lamps, sound conditioning machines, eye masks, books). You can simply draw the curtain on sleeplessness caused by too much light with room-darkening features like

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blackout liners, cloth tapes, routless louvers, cornice boxes and drapery panels!

Lack of sleep causes moodiness, daytime exhaustion, slow thinking and reduced reaction time. What can a moody, exhausted, slow thinking, sleep-deprived person do to get more sleep? One suggestion is to create an environment that’s conducive to sleep; dark, cool, quiet and comfortable. Another is to call a Budget Blinds style consultant to help you

choose the perfect window treatments for your bedroom.

Blinds Help Facilitate Sleep If drawing the blinds doesn’t keep that pesky streetlamp from disturbing your sleep, there’s still hope. The key to a better night’s sleep may lay with your window treatments; specifically, the features you add to them. Ask your Budget Blinds

consultant to show you the blackout liners and cloth tapes that will block light and knock out sleepless nights.

Sleep experts encourage troubled sleepers to wake at the same time every day. A feature that can facilitate this is programmable motorization. Just set the programmable timer to open your window treatments at a specific time in the morning and the light that was blocked all night will help awaken you. Contact Budget Blinds to arrange a complimentary consultation to discuss features that will assist with more sleep.

A good sleeping environment; quiet, cool, comfortable and dark, can foster improved sleep quality and quantity. Light disrupts the sleep cycle, and that’s where our products will help most. We want our customers to not only enjoy the beauty of our products, but also benefit from the features that will create a perfect sleep environment.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BUDGET BLINDS

Liners, Temperature Regulators and Programmable Blinds Budget Blinds offers consumers several options and convenient, free, in-home consultations, so there’s no need for sleep-deprived homeowners to shop from store to store to find the right window treatments.

Our black-out liners are an excellent option for shift workers, babies or people whose bedrooms get too much light.

Additional features are available to block light, such as: cloth tapes, routless louvers, cornice boxes and valances. As well, motorized window treatments can be programmed to open at a specific hour to let in light to help awaken sleepers. The room temperature also affects how well and how long you sleep. As such, certain window treatments will prevent heat gain or loss so less energy is needed to maintain your perfect sleep temperature.

Call Budget Blinds to find out more about room darkening products which will help get your sleep schedule back on track.FLR

534 University Park Drive Regina, Sk. 306.949.2300 e-mail mlfisher@budgetblinds.com www.budgetblinds.com

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

I recently purchased several blinds for my home from your company in Regina. I would like to comment how pleased I was with my entire experience with Budget Blinds. From start to finish, everyone associated in my purchase was excellent to deal with. Professionalism, efficiency and politeness were evident in every way. Please pass on my thanks to everyone associated with my purchase—and your representatives on the phone. One of the blinds was replaced due to a knick in the finish at the bottom— this was pointed out to me by my installer and handled with a smile in a time-efficient manner.

Recently, I have had the experience of working with several other contractors (i.e., roofing/eaves troughs/carpet)—in each there was a problem due to poor work ethics. After working with them, it was an absolute pleasure to work with Budget Blinds.

What a breath of fresh air! Thank you again. I will certainly call you again with any window treatments needs I might have in the future and will highly recommend you whenever I have the opportunity.

- Jan Wood

“THE REBUILDING DREAMS “ TEAM

Rebuildin�

Dreams

Regina non-profit helps families in need

BY MACKENZIE BROOKS 98

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THE STRONG FAMILY

n 2009, Adam Hicks recreated the U.S. hit TV show Extreme Home Makeover into Regina’s very own organization.

Rebuilding Dreams started from one guy with an idea to set in motion a plan to help families experiencing hard times.

These people are just like you and I, but are down on their luck and in need of a helping hand. With the help of businesses, volunteers and the Rebuilding Dreams team one family has already started to rebuild their life.

The first family that Rebuilding Dreams helped was in need of a home that was safe and accessible. As a recent widow, the mother found herself and her family in a rut that they couldn’t manage to get out of. The daughter was diagnosed with severe cerebral palsy, which forced her to use her wheelchair full-time. As a result, she required assistance from others all the time, her wheelchair would not even fit into any room of their home except the living room. With the help of Rebuilding Dreams, she was able to have some independence back with two exterior lifts, a lift that tracked around the home, and an elevator built into the daughter’s room.

Rebuilding Dreams provided this family with an accessible home with features such as: personalized rooms, wider hallways, accessible bathrooms, and much more!

her mother was like, and they will have to face important times in her life alone.

Although times have been rough, they are determined to fight through this. Recently, Dia uses her wheel chair more frequently due to the progress of the disease. Dia is unable to care for her daughter full-time because some days she is barely able to care for herself. Her father had opted to take a leave of absence from work to help Ashton go back to school and work.

Ashton is currently going to SIAST for Architectural Technologies in Moosejaw. Income is tight for the family because Ashton is only able to work four months of the year, while Dia is no longer able to work.

Just Dia’s medication is close to $1,500 a month. With the support of friends and family, Ashton and Dia find ways to make things work with what they have.

The Strong family’s home is going to be equipped with many features to help Dia, Ashton and their daughter live comfortably. These amenities, such as wider hallways, height adjustments on fixtures, and ramps will allow Dia to participate in daily activities with the family. The family will also have many new things such as flooring, furniture, landscaping, and windows. The look and feel of this home will reflect the family’s interests, tastes, and lifestyle. All of these things will enable the family to feel like

This year, Rebuilding Dreams is helping another family fulfill their needs by providing them with another accessible home. The Strong family has proven that under stressful and devastating times, their positive attitude and perseverance conquers these obstacles. Ashton and Dia Strong were high school sweethearts with a zest for life. After having their daughter, they had a new and exciting journey ahead of them. Their joy was put on hold after Dia was diagnosed with a rare form of Multiple Sclerosis called Marburg Variant. This was the first case of Marburg Variant to be diagnosed in 25 years in Saskatchewan. Ultimately, it could leave Ashton without a wife and his daughter without a mother. Ashton’s biggest fear is that he will have to tell his daughter what

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this home is theirs.

Businesses, volunteers and the Rebuilding Dreams team will be working away day and night to help restore this home to a better state. The amazing thing about this project is that almost 100 per cent of the home has been donated by gracious sponsors. The home will be rebuilt almost entirely from the ground up, to Grade A inspection. We have several important events and fundraisers coming up in the near future, such as: Tree Banding Program: Aug 24 to Sept 30. We partnered with the City of Regina to offer 4,000 FREE trees to be banded for Regina citizens. We encourage that those who receive tree banding donate to Rebuilding Dreams in order to help fund this project. For more information please call the City of Regina at 777-7000. The program will run every spring and fall during the times of banding.

MOVE THAT BUS- THE UNVEILING PHOTOS BY SHAWN FULTON

Rebuilding Dreams Dog House Competition: October 15. Enrol your team to competitively design and build a replica of the actual Extreme Home Makeover House.

Many prizes will be awarded for things like closest replica, team effort and for fundraising efforts. Enrolment ensures your spot in the competition, lunch provided and some working materials for minimum of $500 registration fee. More details to come!

Ask how you can volunteer, participate in events, or just to learn more about what Rebuilding Dreams is by contacting or visiting us at: www.rebuildingdreams.ca or email us at: info@rebuildingdreams.ca. FLR

PRESENTING MEDIA SPONSOR

presented by PLATINUM SPONSOR: TOTAL PLUMBING | HEATING | A/C

www.rebuildingdreams.ca

Follow us on facebook: www.facebook.com/RebuildingDreams

GOLD SPONSORS: GRAHAM CONSTRUCTION, LIFESTYLE CABINET OUTLET, KELTURN DRYWALL, STUCCO BY TOM Tom Strymecki Project Manager

Tom Strymecki Project Manager

Stucco by Tom (2010) INC. Box 4242 Regina, SK S4P 3W6 www.stuccobytom.com

Stucco by Tom (2010) INC.

‘that stucco guy’ Specializing in Acrylic Box EIFS4242 - ICF

Tel. 306.737.2261 Fax: 306.789.2533 stuccobytom2010@gmail.com

Regina, SK S4P 3W6 www.stuccobytom.com

‘that stucco guy’ Specializing in Acrylic

Mary Strymecki

Business Manager Tel. 306.737.2261 Fax: 306.789.2533

EXPERTAdvice SMART SPACES

Kim Wellings

Professional Organizer Toll Free: 1.877.822.3911 Phone: 306.662.3911 Cel: 306.662.8744 smartspaces@sasktel.net www.smartspaces.ca

Dear Kim, I am cleaning out my laundry room after a near-death breaking shelf/falling hot stones and roaster-oven incident. I set aside the extra screws that I didn’t use from the new shelf brackets and asked myself, “I wonder if I should just throw these in the garbage, or if I should put them with the millions of other miscellaneous screws in my misc. screw department?” I wondered if you advise what I could get rid of guilt-free. By just throwing items away, am I single-handedly destroying the environment and laughing in the face of my 96-year-old grandmother who would have, by God, appreciated every screw she ever got? Jodi

Dear Jodi, The ultimate goal of getting organized is to easily access what’s truly important to us. Streamlining or purging is often a major part of this process. What do we keep, what do we throw, what is worth saving and storing?

Space is a commodity and time is money.

If you are having trouble letting things

go because of the monetary “wasting” associated with giving it away, please consider these things. A home is largely valued by square footage. How are you using yours? With items that you value and use? With items that are contributing to the success of your current life? I’m just sayin’...

One of my favourite organizing quotes is, “Do not throw good space after bad money,”

by Peter Walsh. Yes, you spent “good hardearned money” on that stairmaster/crafting table/trifle bowl/food dehydrator/lava lamp/sweater-set, etc., etc. that you never use. It was a great deal at the time, you had good intentions, but denial doesn’t change reality. You don’t use it and now it’s taking up square footage (which has further value) so you’re wasting more money by keeping it.

The thing about keeping items we don’t use is that it prevents us from using the space to access things we do. How much time are you wasting looking for things you need and use amongst all the useless clutter? Think of the life you are living right now. What do you value, use and need right now? Don’t consider the life you used to have or the situation you might one day be in. Live in the present and organize accordingly. Give yourself room to grow—a place and a space for good things to come.

When dealing with memorabilia, ask yourself if you would lose the memory if the item were gone. Is it an item you would

bring out in a conversation or showcase at a graduation, wedding, anniversary?

So now, what do you do with these items you have decided to let go of? Reduce, recycle, reuse. We are environmentallyfriendly organizers. If selling them is a realistic and viable option, great. If not, can you give them away to someone you know personally who would use them or a charity? If they’re broken, expired or not fit for sale or give-away, take a look at sarcan. ca or sweepit.ca to see what items can be taken for recycling.

So getting back to the email: There is no shame in getting rid of items that you have duplicates of or that you do not need, love or use. Yes, even if it was a gift! If it’s not marketable, appropriate for charity, or recyclable it’s a toss—straight garbage. Your 96-year-old grandmother may have indeed kept the screw because she would have used it or given or sold it to someone who would have done so. It was a different time.

Her near-death experiencesSmart would notBizCard-Kim-FP-11180 have Spaces come in a laundry room overstuffed with extraneous items. I’m just sayin’...

Kim Wellings is a professional organizer.

Her business Smart Spaces is based out of Maple Creek and serves southern Saskatchewan. www.smartspaces.ca C

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435 dewdney Avenue

306.352.4639

www.woodridgeflooring.com

Wood Ridge flooRing

435 dewdney Avenue

306.352.4639

www.woodridgeflooring.com

Wood Ridge flooRing

A NEW START

BY TRILBY HENDERSON

hen Tony and Tanya Romaniuk first broached the idea of building a new custom home, they had three goals in mind: to create a home that would meet the needs of their young family now and in the future, to develop a space where they could comfortably welcome family and friends, and to find a location where they could get to know their neighbours and truly become a part of a thriving, young rural community.

“We were looking for a layout that really allowed us to enjoy having company, and more than one family over at a time,” said Tanya.

“We definitely wanted a home that our kids could grow up in,” she said. “We really want it to be that house on the block where the kids spend a lot of time.

Hopefully we’ve achieved that.”

The Romaniuks chose one of the last walkout lots in the Emerald Creek subdivision and began working with Emerald Park Homes to make their new home a reality. With Emerald Park Homes’ expertise and experience, and the Romaniuk’s own ideas and the

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extensive research they had done online, browsing through magazines and visiting show homes in the different areas they visited, they are now living in a home they absolutely love, in a community where they have been welcomed.

The Romaniuks were surprised when they were invited to attend their local block party before they had even moved in to their new home, a preview of the friendly and inclusive community they were about to join. Tanya said this year’s party was

even bigger and better. “The sense of community just within our own block has been really great,” she said.

The Personal Touches The Romaniuk’s walkout bungalow features an open-concept main living area, three-car garage, and abundant outdoor living space on the top and bottom deck.

The lower deck is screened in for privacy and wind reduction, providing the perfect area for the family to enjoy the fresh air.

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON PHOTO COURTESY OF EMERALD PARK HOMES

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON PHOTO COURTESY OF EMERALD PARK HOMES

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMERALD PARK HOMES

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Hardwood floors extend throughout the main floor living area, connecting the kitchen to the large living room.

The Humidifall water feature controls humidity and removes allergens and pollutants.

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

It’s location on a large, south-backing lot in the Emerald Creek subdivision maximises the amount of natural light available through the expanse of windows along the home’s south side and provides excellent, unobstructed views of the vast prairie sky and vibrant sunsets from both the rear upper and lower level outdoor living areas.

“A lot of people have walked in and said, ‘ It just feels really homey, but really modern at the same time’,” said Tanya. “That’s what we were going for.”

The walk-through front closet to the right of the main entrance houses plenty of storage space, including a built-in vacuum cabinet, cell phone charging stations, and benchstyle lockers.

The kitchen boasts granite countertops, an eye-catching black glass backsplash, and a large centre island. The Indy Brown kitchen cabinets were designed and built by Cougar Custom Cabinets, a Regina company that offers its clients the advantage of seeing their design in 3D so that they can get a true feel of how the layout will work before they start construction.

Among the many unique features of the kitchen cabinets, Ken Kraushaar, owner of Cougar Custom Cabinets, designed steelmesh baskets that sit below the countertop, keeping fruits and vegetables easily accessible and fresh, but out-of-site.

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMERALD PARK HOMES

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Tony’s favourite area of the house is the walkout basement complete with a wet bar, appliances, shelving with LED lighting, disco ball lighting, and superior audio and video features including a projection TV. Tanya said he spent a lot of time thinking about what he wanted and has really perfected this space. An exercise room, two additional bedrooms and a washroom are also located on the lower level.

One of Tanya’s favourite areas in the home is the kitchen pantry. For this space, the couple forwent the traditional idea of what a pantry should be – an enclosed area to hide the staples of everyday life – and, instead, opted to create an inviting nook with lots of open shelving, a desk, and a large window.

Tanya said she even loves her now well-organized junk drawers.

There are three bedrooms on the main floor, including a large master bedroom with walk-in closet and ensuite.

One of Tanya’s favourite features of the master suite is the built-in niche, complete with LED lighting and perfectly designed to display cherished family photos.

When Tony and Tanya first met with Garry Sawchyn of Emerald Park Homes, their first impression was that this was a reputable, family-run company who truly understood their needs. Looking back on their homebuilding experience, and the support they received from Garry every step of the way, it’s clear their initial impression hit the nail on the head.

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

One of the things that stands out most for Tony and Tanya is the fact that they were able to contact Garry at any time, and were made to feel comfortable doing so. “He answered his phone every time we called him,” said Tanya. Watching Garry treat his other clients with the same consideration and respect impressed the couple even further. “I have seen him when other people have phoned and he does the exact same thing for everybody,” she continued. “He’s really good that way.”

The Romaniuks also appreciated the flexibility Emerald Park Homes’ brought to the process by working with the couple to accommodate their ideas while keeping the big picture, and the budget, in perspective. “They were really willing to work with us and keep it in budget but, yet, allow us to change things throughout.

That was really nice,” said Tanya.

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

Tony and Tanya took the time to envision how each feature of their home would complement their day-today lives and fit with their focus on family, friends and community. With Emerald Park Home’s guidance and ability to transform their ideas into a physical reality, the Romaniuks are not only enjoying their new home, but they have enjoyed working with everyone at Emerald Park Homes during the build. FHR

Emerald Park Homes 64 Great Plains Road Emerald Park, Sk. 306.781.3383 www.emeraldparkhomes.ca

PHOTO BY SHAWN FULTON

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business

PHOTO CREDIT ÉRIC ST-PIERRE

Artisans, such as Jean-Marie Colin of Haiti, earn a decent wage because of the fair trade practices of Ten Thousand Villages.

FTO MAKES AN IMPACT ON VILLAGES AND PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD

BY TRILBY HENDERSON n Haiti, Jean-Marie Colin transforms discarded oil drums into eye-catching works of art, using the income he earns to send his four children to school and, one day, repair his earthquake-ravaged home.

Colin acquired his skill by learning from a master artisan and completing a threeyear apprenticeship at a local factory, before starting his own workshop where he employs more than a dozen artisans and apprentices, including his eldest son.

Here, the inspired, original designs they create are helping to bring their country one step closer to recovery.

In India, Supeir Khinchi earns an income by working with an embroidery and tailoring workshop operated by the St. Mary’s convent, a group who also run a maternity hospital and women’s health clinic in the city of Ahmedabad. Khinchi’s earnings

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help her to pay for treatments needed to cure her tuberculosis, a disease that has already taken the lives of her husband and one of her daughters. Here, Khinchi is one of hundreds of women whose work with St. Mary’s has given them hope for a better future.

In Canada and the United States, Ten Thousand Villages is introducing the work of artisans like Colin and Khinchi to North American consumers, giving them the opportunity to purchase beautifully hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind products for themselves and their homes and be part of the positive change that comes with paying people a fair wage for the work they do.

“I think it’s very much an affirmation to [the artisans] that something that is

part of them, something that they know, something that they can do, is something that is desired on the other side of the world,” said Sonia Buckmaster, manager of Ten Thousand Villages in Regina.

Ten Thousand Villages is a non-profit Fair Trade Organization (FTO) that partners with more than 130 different artisan groups in over 35 developing countries, helping them to earn an income from the goods they produce by giving them access to the North American marketplace. This October marks the organization’s 65th anniversary. Although it has only been known as Ten Thousand Villages for the past 15 years, its origin can be traced back to 1946, when a member of the Mennonite Central Committee launched a program to help impoverished women in Puerto Rico.

Ten Thousand Villages was built on the belief that people deserve to be paid a fair wage for their work, meaning they would be able to afford basic needs such as food, clothing, housing, medical care and education for their children.

“People are doing it because they want to, because they can use the skills and traditions that have been passed down through the generations,” said Sonia.

“They are holders of that knowledge.

For them to be able to make use of it in supporting their family, I think, is very satisfying to them.”

The products vary from home decor to fashion to food. All are crafted by hand, and although they may follow a similar pattern or style, the practice of making each product one at a time means no two items are exactly the same.

One of the first things a person notices upon entering a Ten Thousand Villages’ store is the wholesome aroma—a blend of scents from the natural materials used to craft each item, unobstructed by the smell of plastic. Buckmaster said environmental sustainability is another of the organization’s core values, one that is largely evident in how the raw materials are harvested.

For example, in Indonesia, a country where clear-cut logging has had a devastating impact, Ten Thousand Villages’ is partnering with companies such as Tropical Salvage, who build stunning pieces of furniture using reclaimed wood from buildings, boats and bridges or mined from ancient trees buried by volcanic eruptions.

The organization forms long-term relationships with its partners, working with them to find new ways to use materials they have readily available. As a result, artisans are able to cultivate a sense of security and better plan for their futures, while Ten Thousand Villages is able to introduce new products to its customers on a regular basis. This fall, Buckmaster said they will be adding several new food items—including

the super-healthy Quinoa—to their collection, which already houses some of the world’s best coffee and chocolate.

In a North American culture built on mass-consumption, Ten Thousand Villages offers consumers an opportunity to purchase products that have real value and meaning. By sharing the story of each item—of the country where it was made, of the materials that were used, and of the person who created it—the organization builds personal connections between consumers and the treasures they choose to bring into their homes or give to others.

“It’s very rewarding when you are working on the floor and you know that you’ve helped make that connection, not just for the person who bought it, but for the person who is going to receive it,” Buckmaster said.

The organization is run by a combination of volunteers and paid staff, each of whom are passionate about their role in Ten Thousand Villages’ mission, whether that means working onsite with the artisans or serving customers on the other end of the process. For Buckmaster, this passion was further enhanced after she witnessed, first hand, the impact fair trade has had on women in India and Bangladesh. “Those are images that will stay with me forever, and those are the images that I think about when I am working here and talking about the products,” she said.

Buckmaster hopes that, one day, everyone will be treated fairly and there will no longer be a need to differentiate Fair Trade goods. While the work of organizations like Ten Thousand Villages is pushing the movement forward, the greatest influence lies in the hands of the consumer. “I think we forget that as consumers, we really have all of the power rather than none of the power,” said Buckmaster.

“You have the choice to buy fair trade and impact someone else’s life.” FLR

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EXPERTAdvice

INSURANCE

Instead of diving into a diatribe about market forces, investment volatility and P/E multiples, let us examine the more rudimentary elements of an effective financial plan which will bring harmony to your dreams whilst largely eradicating risks on the journey to their accomplishment.

The 5 Key Financial Risks Of Life Are:

Bill Allen, CFP

Member of Advocis since 1993 National Quality Award Suite 1200 - 2002 Victoria Ave Regina, SK S4P 0R7 Bus 306.757.8631 x 2207 Toll Free 1.866.996.9996 x 2207 Fax 306.359.7447 Bill.Allen@sunlife.com www.sunlife.com/bill.allen www.sunlife.ca/MyRetirement

Does Your Present Have A Future? Navigating the Stormy Seas of Life’s Changes Wealth creation, preservation and transition are challenges not easily overcome in today’s turbulent markets. With the multiple forces of sub-prime mortgage crises, covert inflation and skyrocketing fuel prices impacting every aspect of our material lifestyle and daily subsistence, there is a heightened need to buffet ourselves, our families and businesses against the ravages of unpredictable and unstable circumstances which can crush the dreams of those not acting in a financially prudent manner.

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1. Living too long 2. Dying too soon 3. Becoming critically ill along the way 4. Suffering from temporary or permanent disability 5. Reducing your asset accumulation through inappropriate tax planning Here are some thought-provoking questions you might consider in your quest to prevent your financial ship from sinking before attaining its destination: If you ACCUMULATE as many net assets over the NEXT 5 YEARS as you just did over the LAST 5 YEARS, are you going to be satisfied with your progress at that point?

How many weeks of your typical retirement month are FULLY funded by your current plans (based on your desired date of retirement until the end of your projected life expectancy)?

Is the financial gap between what you OWN and what you OWE getting Wider, Narrower or Staying the Same?

The way you are set up currently, would you retain CONTROL of your MONEY if you LOST control of your HEALTH? Your job is to keep yourself going. Your financial plan’s job is to keep your money going. If your health walks out of the back door in your life tomorrow, make sure you have someone

walking in the front door with a cheque. Not only should your planning ensure financial security if you die, but also when you catch what might end up killing you. Over 80% of people will suffer from cancer, stroke or heart attack at some point in their lifetime.

Most of these health misfortunes are manageable at first diagnosis due to emerging breakthroughs in medical science. However, physical recovery from them requires TIME and MONEY. If you ensure your CAR fully comprehensive against fire, theft and damage, why wouldn’t you insure your LIFE the same way?

If you were killed in a plane crash, how much would your family sue for in order to replace your income and keep afloat financially?

How much of that amount do you have structured for guaranteed delivery within your current financial plan?

Have you taken the simple, tax-efficient steps to ensure that your surviving spouse doesn’t inherit a business (or shares therein) that they have neither the interest nor skill in running?

Are you drawing the maximum compensation from your corporation to remunerate you for having guaranteed company debt at the bank with personal assets? A holistic financial plan should have strong foundations - especially in the case of business owners who enthusiastically apply their personal signature to bank documentation without appreciating the massive imbalance which that act brings to their family balance sheet.

By engaging in healthy family debate of the above issues, crafting the correct financial plan and choosing the right advisor, you will position yourself for a lifetime of financial HEALTH, WEALTH and HAPPINESS. Good luck with the journey.

Your vending machines don’t work by themselves.

There is an entire organization operating behind the scenes.

INTRODUCING SUPERIOR VENDING’S SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM: I’m Greg Buzash and I’m the Route Manager. It’s my job to ensure that your vending machines are stocked. With our new satellite system, I remotely monitor sales to ensure that you don’t run out of your favourites.

I schedule the routes and ensure that our drivers follow my four principles: clean driver, clean truck, clean vendor, and clean product.

My name is Anthony Wiles, Service and IT Manager.

When your organization wants a vending machine, I’m the one who delivers it.

And if you ever experience an issue with your machine, I’m the person who takes responsibility. You don’t call a contact centre, and you don’t talk to a receptionist – you call me and I get it done.

I’m Al Brown, the Manager of Food Services. I fill fresh food vendors with products made in our health districtapproved kitchen, and I ensure that everything is labelled, dated, and rotated to ensure freshness.

Businesses can offer a variety of fresh food to their staff without implementing a full cafeteria; a service that is unique in Canada.

My name is Neil Martinoski and I’m the Warehouse Manager. My goal is to source your snacks and drinks at a reasonable price. To meet special requests, I’ve dealt with suppliers from all across Canada. With Superior Vending, you’re not limited to just what’s available in Saskatchewan.

Go Ahead...Push Our Buttons Superior Vending Ltd. 306.775.2200 www.SuperiorVendingLtd.com

DON’T GO OUT OF YOUR WAY FOR INSURANCE Let Campbell & Haliburton go out of its way for you

BY FLR STAFF

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PHOTOS BY SHAWN FULTON

BACK ROW: MEL SEBASTIAN, JOHN GRANT, DARYL ARENDT, DEAN BONYAI FRONT ROW: KRISTY CALLFAS, DEBBIE BURKART, BRIAN GIBSON, KEN DOMM MISSING: MEGHAN MATHIESON, BARB BARBER, LYDINE DENZIN, JIM BUCK

From the day we are born to the day we are gone, we hope for the best, but plan for the worst. Nobody understands this better than Campbell & Haliburton. For more than 50 years, the team at Campbell & Haliburton has been serving the insurance needs of Regina citizens with friendly, trusted advice delivered with value and professionalism.

Campbell & Haliburton currently offers a wide range of insurance products including home, condo, auto, health, life, disability, commercial and agricultural.

Every client and potential client can find what they need in one location, with educated, professional team members to guide them to the perfect insurance fit, tailored for each customer in order to maximize protection for their family and provide peace of mind. The company is also an SGI vehicle and driver’s licence issuer.

Strong roots As a fledgling Regina real estate franchise in 1954, British Columbia-based Campbell & Haliburton fell on hard times and sought to offload some of its businesses and assets. Enter Herbert A. Gibson. The Regina businessman, along with some partners, bought the company. Under Herbert, Campbell and Haliburton served its customers diligently guiding them through real estate transactions and financial acquisitions.

“We have always based our company on honesty, integrity and customer service,” says Brian Gibson, current owner (semiretired) and Herbert’s son. Brian joined his father in the family business in 1964.

Based on that sound principal, by 1967, the firm became the largest real estate company in Regina with 60 employees.

Of course, a natural extension to real estate is insurance. In 1959, Herbert and his partners had bought out four sole proprietor insurance firms and spun off Campbell & Haliburton Insurance.

Because of its customer service focus Campbell & Haliburton Insurance has always enjoyed strong customer loyalty;

several customers have been with the company since its inception.

“We would not do something that would not serve our customers well,” Brian says. “We have a well- educated staff that holds the same values that have been serving us well for years. We are trusted partners who focus on customer service with integrity.”

Although Brian Gibson was always extremely active in the real estate industry—serving as president of the Regina Real Estate Association and sitting on other real estate boards—he decided in 1981 that it was time to sell the real estate side of the business and concentrate on insurance (although they still maintain a presence in real estate with Campbell & Haliburton Property Management).

“We retained the insurance company, which has always been a well-run mid-size company,” says Cheryl Grant, company director and Brian’s daughter.

A family affair According to Brian, current credit for Campbell & Haliburton’s status as a well-run company goes to another family member, John Grant, Cheryl’s husband and the company’s president.

“John runs the company with the same values that we have been managing it with for years,” says Brian.

But it’s not just actual family members— such as Dean Bonyai, Brian’s other son-inlaw, and a trusted insurance broker in the company—who make up the Campbell and Haliburton family.

“We know that clients appreciate the family atmosphere of Campbell & Haliburton,” says Ken Domm, broker.

“We all work together to ensure that all our clients are each given the personal attention that turns clients into friends.”

Because the agents treat each person as an individual, with individual needs and desires, each client receives personalized service—it’s no small wonder clients are loyal.

Convenient Although there has been some change in Campbell & Haliburton over the years, one thing that has never changed is convenience. In the early years, the company was located on Cornwall Street where the Cornwall Centre and Sasktel now stand. Since 1976, 13th Avenue and Retallack Street in the heart of Cathedral Village has been home for the company.

This centralized location allows Campbell & Haliburton to not only to serve neighbourhood communities, but also clients from all over the city due to proximity to downtown.

Insurance with a heart Businesses are never solely judged by the services or products they provide, nor their location, though. As members of the community, we look to them for leadership and support. To that end, Campbell & Haliburton contributes $25,000 to $30,000 to Regina charities annually.

And through the years, the company’s employees have spent countless hours as volunteers.

“We are also sponsors of the Regina Multisport Club in honour of my son Brent,” says Gibson. Brian’s son Brent Gibson worked for Campbell & Haliburton for 20 years before dying suddenly from heart failure in 2006. He was an avid Ironman triathlete and co-founder of the Regina Multi-Sport Club. There is a race in his memory called The Brent Gibson Memorial Ice Breaker Triathlon held annually in May. Visit the professionals at Campbell & Haliburton Insurance to receive educated, friendly, trusted and convenient insurance advice. FLR

2101 Retallack St Regina, Sk. 306.757.0621 www.insurance-store.com

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NO ENVELOPES, NO WORRYING, NO WAITING Unload your unwanted precious metals at Regina’s KC Coins

BY CARTER HAYDU ith the current value of precious metals, it’s a golden era for those looking to cash in on old coins and jewelry and KC Coins in Regina is eager to help.

“That’s where the money is,” says storeowner Lyle Fornwald. “Anyone who’s watching the market right now, gold and silver prices have been really climbing.”

Fornwald encourages anyone looking to offload some gold or silver coins, jewellery or “scrap” pieces to bring it into his 3096 Albert St. (in the Golden Mile Centre) shop and he will offer the best deal possible.

“We like to say that we pay better,” he says, adding there are companies online willing to buy gold and silver, but dealing with someone locally and in person is probably going to result in the best monetary outcome for the customer.

shelves that, aside from being beautiful and valuable, often carry with them rich history you likely won’t find anywhere else.

“We do it right in front of you and you have the opportunity to take it or not.”

“We bought, for example, a second World War Rolex watch a couple of months ago.

A soldier would have worn that and it’s made by Rolex, so it’s quite collectable.”

According to Fornwald, if you are in the market to buy, then KC Coins offers lots of interesting merchandise to invest in. If you are in the market to sell, then Fornwald offers the best deal the market will allow.

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Fornwald said he carries an assortment of such interesting pieces, not just in the form of jewelry, but also war memorabilia and

KC Coins - Golden Mile Centre 3806 Albert Street Regina, Sk. 306.584.2426

However, KC Coins is far from being a mere purchaser of gold and silver. Fornwald said there is some very nice, interesting jewellery and high-end watches on his

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pocket watches. Aside from collectable coins, both Canadian and international, he also trades in paper money.

Where will the money come from?

You guessed it—generous grandparents who are able to leverage their savings in an RESP for their grandchildren.

For every dollar deposited into an RESP, the federal government adds a 20 per cent education grant. The deposits and grants grow tax-sheltered until the funds are used for a qualifying post-secondary program.

When the money is paid out, the grants and earnings are taxable to the student which usually means little or no tax is paid. A $100 per month deposit plus the 20 per cent grant earning five per cent interest over 18 years will grow to over $35,000!

Grant Karst, CFP, CLU, CHFC Blue Sky Financial Planning 207-4401 Albert St. Regina, Sk. 306.757.5038 grant@mybluesky.ca www.mybluesky.ca

Someone once said, “If had known how much fun grandchildren are, I would have had them first!”

Grandchildren truly are special and grandparents love to shower them with attention and gifts. Here are a few ideas for gifts that won’t end up in the toy pile and will provide a lifetime of benefits.

Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) The value of a post-secondary education is priceless, but it is also expensive. The costs of tuition, books, and accommodations are increasing faster than inflation and it is difficult for parents to set enough money aside for education while paying their mortgage and for their children’s activities.

Fortunately, the federal government provides assistance by offering education grants in an RESP, but there is a catch— money must go into the plan before the grant is awarded.

Life Insurance Starting a life insurance program for a grandchild is a gift that keeps on giving.

Whole Life insurance is a popular choice for this gift because it offers the following benefits; • Level life-time premiums based on the age of the child.

• Tax-sheltered cash values.

• Dividends that purchase additional paid-up insurance which also grows tax-sheltered. Dividends are not guaranteed and will vary upward or downward.

• Protection of insurability. Once the policy is in force, any changes in health or risks associated with occupation, avocation or lifestyle will not have an impact on the premiums.

Let’s examine a policy for a new granddaughter. The premium for a $100,000 policy is $75 per month. At age 20, the dividends purchasing additional insurance more than doubles the original value to over $200,000. At age 40, the policy has grown to half a million. If the child lives to 100, which may be common by then, the policy has a death benefit of over three million dollars and the premium is still 75.00 per month. The grandparent can start

the policy and transfer it without incurring any taxes to the grandchild when she is an adult.

Critical Illness Insurance Purchasing critical illness insurance for a grandchild has similar benefits—level premiums based on the age of the child and protection of insurability—but there are additional features unique to this type of policy. A lump sum benefit is paid out in the event the child is diagnosed with a critical illness like cancer (over 25 illnesses are covered). No one likes to think of this happening but if it does, money is often needed for treatment, care and recovery.

The parents in this situation don’t need financial stress added to their plate and the grandparents may be called upon to help out. On the bright side, if a claim is never made, all or a portion of the premiums paid can be recovered. For example, a premium of $57.00 per month will pay for a $100,000 policy on a new granddaughter. At age 25, 75 per cent of the premiums paid ($12,697) are paid out if there hasn’t been a claim. The policy continues to provide coverage at the same premium rate and 100 per cent of the premiums paid can be recovered any time after age 40 if the policy is terminated.

Do you want to give something special to your grandchild? Give them a gift they will never grow out of. Give them a gift that will make a difference in their lives long after you are gone.FLR

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wheels

JACK AND SHARON DUBOIS - OK TIRE

ack and Sharon Dubois were given a choice in 1986: either move to Vancouver or Toronto, or stay in Regina and provide exceptional service to their customers. Fortunately for us, they chose the latter.

Jack has been working out of 4525 Albert St South Regina since 1981; he was the regional manager for BF Goodrich, and the location was the BF Goodrich Ride Centre. In 1986 a company merger and restructuring meant that all of the BF Goodrich company stores were being sold and employees were being transferred. Jack and Sharon were born and raised in Regina, and chose to purchase the store and stay where their hearts were.

For years, those of us in the business knew them as Accent Automotive. In 2005 they joined forces with the nationwide network of OK TIRE dealers to better serve their customers.

More Than Just Tires

Honestly Driven.

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Tires just barely scratch the surface of what they do at OK TIRE. With 15 service bays, the team at OK TIRE can handle almost any vehicle repair that you need: brakes, struts, alignments, shocks, tune-ups, electrical and emissions, even performance parts and aftermarket lighting. From import to domestic, they have access to the same online information as the dealer network. “In fact, it

is a myth that no one but a dealership can do your vehicle’s maintenance, says Jack.

We can and we do more than once they’ve helped a customer identify a problem with a car that is under warranty, provide them with a printout of the manufacturer’s recommended fix. Sometimes even in instances when the dealer was unable to diagnose the problem on their own.”

“For us, it’s about being thorough,” says Jack. “We really focus on maintenance and preventative maintenance in our store.” In fact, maintenance is a principle of business at OK TIRE. They have a program called Managed Auto Care which tracks all of the services that are performed on your vehicle. By tracking your mileage, service intervals, and repairs, this program can calculate how long you need to wait between maintenance items and identify things that you can do to keep your vehicle running at peak efficiency. This type of program is often used by large companies that run fleets of vehicles to minimize repair costs and keep the vehicles in good running order. OK TIRE brings that level of efficiency to individual car owners. Longterm studies have shown that doing proper preventative maintenance will reduce the

cost of service on a vehicle by as much as 40% over the life of the vehicle. Those are significant savings.

Where The Rubber Meets The Road OK Tire does much MORE than tires, but they are also the nation’s largest tire retailer. They have 280 stores across Canada, each backs up the others in terms of warranty and service. Buy a tire in Regina, get a flat in Toronto? No problem. OK TIRE has a huge selection of tires to choose from. They carry Toyo, Bridgestone, Firestone, Continental, General, Kumho, Pirelli and more; in an almost infinite range of sizes and prices to fit any budget.

When you have questions about tires, there is no better place to turn than OK TIRE (Jack is Saskatchewan’s only ASE certified wheel and tire specialist). And if your vehicle needs service, they have the talent and expertise to take care of the problem. Give them a call at 586-7666, or point your browser to www.oktire.com or www.oktireregina.com to learn more. FLR

They also carry a huge selection of custom wheels and winter tires. Saskatchewan, which has one of the lowest rates of adoption of winter tires in the country, really needs to pay more attention to the benefits of winter tires. Not only do they help you accelerate better on ice and snow, they also help you brake and turn faster.

4525 Albert Street Regina, Sk. 306.586.7666

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A LIFESTYLE FOR EVERYONE

Today’s RVs eliminate any concept of ‘roughing it’

BY FLR STAFF

hey range from the simplest, pop-up camper-trailers to virtual luxury hotel rooms on wheels and Saskatchewanians are embracing the RV (recreational vehicle) lifestyle like no others.

New statistics from Go RVing Canada indicate Saskatchewan residents are buying more RVs per capita than citizens of any other province. In fact, this

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province’s recreationally-inclined were almost three times as likely to buy an RV as other Canadians in 2010.

“I think Saskatchewan is special in its own way because 90 per cent of RV owners say it’s the best way see the country at its best and Saskatchewan is one of those great provinces where people just literally get out on the open road,” said Alana Fontaine, a spokesperson for Go RVing

Canada who visited Regina in September as part of a public relations tour.

Go RVing Canada is a coalition representing RV dealers, manufacturers and campgrounds across the country to promote the RV lifestyle, of which, Fontaine says, there are many compelling benefits.

“First and foremost it’s fun,” Fontaine

said. “The freedom and flexibility that’s associated with RVing is what’s really appealing to those who want to get involved in the lifestyle, and also the affordability.”

She cited a study that indicated an RV vacation can cost as much as 75 per cent less than a traditional vacation, particularly for families, once you factor in the costs or air travel, hotels, eating out and rental cars.

The affordability factor may be why the recent recession saw such a rapid increase in the popularity of RVs. Another factor is undoubtedly the variety and luxury of the modern versions of mobile accommodations. Today’s offerings ain’t your daddy’s VW camper. They feature slide-out kitchens and bedrooms, proper mattresses, showers and bathrooms, flatscreen HD TVs, satellite TV and radio and pretty much any other luxury you can think of.

But, while we tend to think of motorhomes as a relatively recent concept, their history goes back a lot further than you might think. Last year marked the 100th anniversary of the first motorized campers.

“The first motorized campers were built in 1910,” said David Woodworth, a preeminent American RV historian.

“Before then, people camped in private rail cars that were pulled to sidings along

train routes. The year 1910 brought a new freedom to people who didn’t want to be limited by the rail system. RVs allowed them to go where they wanted, when they wanted.”

Of course, the history of mobile living quarters goes back even further than that. They couldn’t really be described as recreational, perhaps, but wagons built for living in rather than just transporting people and goods appeared in France approximately 200 years ago. In England they were used by circus performers and showmen who travelled the countryside in search of audiences who would fill their hats with coins. And, of course, in the United States, the image of the ‘snake

oil salesman’ in his horse-drawn caravan has become iconic of the laissez-faire capitalism of the old west.

In 2011, of course, we enjoy more leisure time than any generation that has come before. That, coupled with the vast array of choices in RVs; the extensive paved highway systems of North America; and the thousands of national, provincial, state, and private parks with full hookups, it is little wonder RVing is more popular than ever.

“There really is an RV for everyone,” said Fontaine. FLR

VALET AUTO SPA - MAKING QUALITY SHINE THROUGH! • High-end exterior and interior cleaning • Full shampoo and dirt extraction from carpets • Interior (smoke, animal, etc.) odor removal • Polishing, clay, waxing and X-Kote paint renewal • Paint, fabric, vinyl, leather and undercoating protection • Underbody wash • Specialty show car polishing • Warranty approved oil changes through Mr. Lube

VALET AUTO SPA

137 Hodsman Road Regina, Sk. 306.789.5151 www.valetautospa.ca

The UPS Store’s Premier Printing Services

BY MACKENZIE BROOKS hmed Saïd, owner and operator of the UPS Store—located in the Sobey’s parking lot on south Albert Street—wants you to know that there is more to UPS than you might think.

Move your business forward with speed, reliability and superior business products and support. Your customers will thank you for it and so will your bottom line.

Business success is done fast and always done right with Ahmed and his team at the UPS Store. They’re more than just delivery services these days.

Small business impacts other small businesses In Regina, Ahmed has expanded his own business services to encompass printing and mailbox availability in addition to shipping. “Printing and mailboxes are services that small businesses need,” explained Ahmed. “I know because I am also a small business owner. To keep your overhead low, why not outsource your printing and delivery services to us? We know how to handle your work, because we work with small businesses every day to increase their brand consistency, expand their customer base and boost

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their overall business effectiveness.”

As small businesses grow, so too does Ahmed’s range of services and support.

“We are here to help you grow your business, run your business optimally and we grow with you,” he continued. Let Ahmed’s experience guide your own and assist you and your business to reach your full potential. With the help of Ahmed’s

team at the UPS Store, you’re one step closer to success.

If you need to reach many clients, let the UPS Store guide you through a mass mailing where each individual piece is guaranteed by Ahmed to receive equal attention. Do you have complex documents to produce such as annual reports? Maybe you need hundreds of full

colour marketing pieces by the end of the day? Banners in need of a boost? Ahmed and the team at the UPS Store have the expertise to guide you from idea, through production to final product.

The UPS Store’s in-house designer can even assist in getting your idea from concept to draft to finished product.

Business cards, brochures, folders, company letterhead and even customized calendars—all at incredible rates—have never been more easily produced. Because of the UPS Store’s ultra-fast production turnaround, they have also never been delivered to you faster.

Email critical documents Imagine yourself en route to a crucial business meeting without that critical document due to last-minute edits or (even worse) printer failure. You need that document lightning-fast. No problem: email your document from your mobile device directly to the UPS Store where it will be printed (to your specifications) and waiting for you to retrieve on your way to the meeting. Crisis averted! The UPS Store is a time-saving and costeffective choice for printing ease with professional results – and no printer jams.

If you need that document reproduced en masse, or even in every colour of the rainbow, Ahmed’s UPS Store team can do that for you too and at a fraction of the cost of other printing services. With a prepaid account at a discounted rate, you pay less for the pleasure of doing business too. Why trust your success to anyone else? For professional results, choose the UPS Store.

Mailbox access – 24/7 The UPS Store also offers mailbox services.

The difference between the UPS Store’s mailbox service and traditional mailbox services are the key to their success and yours. At the UPS store, you are assigned a mail box and given 24 hour keyed access to your mail and courier deliveries so your business runs on your schedule and is not limited by store hours. Anything that might be delivered to a home mailbox can also be delivered to the UPS Store as oversized mail and courier shipments

are recorded and kept safe while you are notified by either e-mail or a phone call upon arrival.

With low mailbox rental rates, completely secured contents and utter confidentiality you may think that Ahmed’s UPS Store’s mailbox service has already out-stripped the rest for service quality. In addition to this, the UPS Store also offers a real street address (rather than a P.O. Box number) so e-commerce deliveries can be received with supreme confidence as non-delivery becomes non-existent. That is just one more way the UPS Store is moving business forward with innovative products and services.

knowledge. Contact Ahmed Saïd at the Regina UPS store at 4246 Albert Street.

Call 522-6237 or e-mail at store228@ theupsstore.ca or visit them online at www.theupsstore.ca/228. Like them on Facebook at “The UPS Store Regina”.

Develop your own opportunities and business relationship with the UPS Store.

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“Customized Creations and Consultancy” With the digital world propelling life to an ever-increasing pace, it’s good to know that at the UPS Store they can produce customized creations like invitations, table tent cards, document folders and business cards at an equally fast rate without ever sacrificing the quality and the creativity you need. Because the UPS Store’s team is full of great ideas themselves, creativity is limitless when combined with your own. Envision a new project together. Create something with the UPS Store.

Move your own business forward with the UPS Store’s services and superior industry

4246 Albert Street Regina, Sk. 306.522.6237 www.theupsstore.ca/228

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Christmas in Moose Jaw "CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER" THROUGH TO CHRISTMAS EVE

NEW THIS YEAR “All Decked Out” NOVEMBER 12 & 13 – A HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA

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Everything from your holiday attire, to entertaining and the best gifting ideas! Featuring some of Moose Jaw’s Finest Shops, Boutiques & Services

MOOSE JAW

SAVE THE DATE

Holiday Happenings “Christmas In October” October 20 - 23 Extended Shopping Hours and Exquisite Displays of Christmas throughout the city.

“All Decked Out” November 12 - 13 New For 2011!!

Holiday Home Tours, Fabulous Fashion Show, Brunch & Christmas 101 with your favourite shops. Special Events, Happenings & Offers throughout the city! Tickets will be limited.

“With Wonder & Praise” December 2, 3, 4 Briercrest’s Christmas Celebration - Tickets Available at 888.462.2202

“Game Day” Moose Jaw Warriors vs. Regina Pats December 9 & 10 Bring in your Game Day Ticket for Holiday Shopping Discounts at Selected Merchants offering Extended Hours.

Featured Businesses YVETTE MOORE GALLERY MOOSE JAW FORD FIRE MONKEY DESIGN PRAIRIE OASIS HAMMOND BUILDING MERCHANTS JILLIAN’S DESIGN ELEMENTS CRANBERRY ROSE

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HRISTMAS COMES EARLY TO MOOSE JAW

BY SARAH MOORE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF YVETTE MOORE GALLERY

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s you drive into Moose Jaw it will be impossible to miss the festive flair adorning the streets. The lights, the wreaths, and the Christmas lights dancing in shop windows. Even if it is only October.

From a small beginning in the home of artist, Yvette Moore, Christmas in October has grown to become one of Moose Jaw’s most popular calendar events. It was 23 years ago that Moore opened the doors of her character home, inviting guests to celebrate the season early with her own artwork, along with that of local crafters and artisans, holiday treats, and all the sights and smells we cherish of the holiday season.

Each year the word spread, and the lines grew, so what started in a house festively lit up the city of Moose Jaw. Downtown Moose Jaw will be aglow with shopping festivities, holiday dinner events, and festive cheer in grand style. The quaint and unique shops that are classically Moose Jaw draw crowds of locals and tourists alike every year to get a jump on the holiday season.

While the beginnings may have been humble, Yvette Moore Gallery proudly displays the grandeur of holiday style within the walls of the century old former Land Titles Building. Yvette Moore Gallery opens its doors to the season in elegant style on Thursday, October 20 at 7 p.m.

With the trees trimmed, the candles lit, and everything stylishly set, Yvette Moore Gallery welcomes guests to make a weekend of the festive occasion. Other shops also kick off their holiday season with a weekend filled with everything we love about the holidays.

With everything from corporate gifts, business, home, office and baby, Yvette Moore Gallery will be displaying a unique array of the finest handcrafted Canadian artisan gifts and artwork for everyone on your list. If you are looking to enhance your own corporate gifting possibilities or are seeking to give an authentic gift that will classically last with time, the staff at Yvette Moore Gallery will have you gift-

wrapped and ready for the holidays ahead.

Make time to enjoy a distinctively Saskatchewan and homemade lunch, dessert, or beverage in the Gallery Café. Filling up quickly every day, call and make a reservation to try this year’s holiday features, and your own classic favourites. Watch for this year’s dates for exclusive dinners, including the widely popular “All the Trimmings Christmas Dinner” and artistically-designed shopping events, or call to enquire about hosting your own private holiday party within the walls of one of Saskatchewan’s premier destinations.

While the holidays may be about giving, it is also about welcoming friends and family to share in the festive spirit. Decorate your home with the beauty and scent of fresh Christmas floral decor from Ellen’s on Main with a beautiful selection of fine flowers and gifts. Style your home with the exceptional quality of Jillian’s Design Elements in its beautiful new location, helping you find every host’s divine luxuries.

Dress your best this season with the extraordinary service and boutique style of Cranberry Rose. From head to toe, the stylish staff will have you dressed in your holiday best for all your seasonal celebrations. Adorn your table and craft your holiday feasts with the incomparable quality of Kitchen Gear’s finest necessities. From the kitchen to the table, you will find everything you need for flawless hosting.

Be sure to watch for other upcoming events throughout the festive season. The first of its kind, the city-wide shopping extravaganza, “All Decked Out” on November 12 and 13, 2011 features holiday home tours of your favourite boutiques and shops, a holiday brunch, a fashion show and even Christmas 101 with tips for dressing your table and your home, styling your wardrobe and giving the gifts of exceptional quality from local shop owners.

Whatever your holiday memories may evoke, make Christmas in October a lasting tradition in your holiday celebrations.

We’ll see you in Moose Jaw. FLR

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The life and art of Yvette Moore

BY SARAH MOORE rom painting the expressive skies to flying through them, Yvette Moore’s journey as an artist is far from conventional. Born and raised in Radville, Saskatchewan, Yvette learned the value of hard work early on the farm. Her roots may be ordinary, but her accomplishments are extraordinary.

It is the age old inspirational tale of how hard work and perseverance pay off.

Yvette’s mantra of ‘learn to do by doing’ rings true in every facet of her life and business. Though her success began with her exquisite capabilities with a paintbrush, the canvas of her life reveals a much larger and complex picture.

When Yvette looks back on her life and her journey, she comments that it was “overwhelming, as the road was never straight. There were many obstacles and many challenges, but the opportunities were also there, so I never stopped and kept on trying.”

Yvette began painting as a hobby while raising her four children in Radville.

Showing her work at local craft and art shows, Yvette’s confidence as a budding local talent sparked her entrepreneurial

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spirit. Her passion became her profession, but she has never forgotten her humble beginnings. From selling artwork from her home to welcoming thousands of guests through the doors of her award-winning gallery in Moose Jaw, her mantra has resonated in every step of her life.

It may be the twenty-six illustrated

images from the widely popular “A Prairie Alphabet” written by Jo BannatyneCugnet that taught us the ABCs of the prairies and that has acquainted us with her work. Perhaps it was a visit with friends and family to the Yvette Moore Gallery, or maybe it was enjoying homemade specialties in the popular Gallery Café, but people have become

accustomed to the attention to detail that appears in every aspect of Yvette’s creations.

my whole life in Saskatchewan – they have lived in many locations and have had experiences that we can’t even imagine.”

She wants to share what she finds so uniquely remarkable about Saskatchewan, whether it is in images or the tastes so distinctly reminiscent of home. Yvette has often said “it is so easy to paint the prairies—we have so much to share about who we are and where we live.” Her, and it has not gone unnoticed.

In 1999, Yvette had the opportunity to purchase the historic Land Titles building in downtown Moose Jaw. This venue provided her with the space to display her own work and to showcase the distinct and exceptional quality of Canadian and Saskatchewan artisans. Within the grand walls and heritage of the century old building, the doors have been opened to the world to view the art and craft from all corners of the province.

Yvette’s dedication and passion rings true in every detail of her work and business and has not gone unnoticed by those recognizing her entrepreneurial spirit, her advocacy of Saskatchewan and local art, and her community involvement. In November 2007, Yvette was awarded the great honour of being appointed the Honorary Colonel of 15 Wing Moose Jaw. A truly remarkable Canadian privilege bestowed on very few, the appointment honours those whose strong community support connects Canadians with the Canadian Forces. A privilege that has honoured outstanding citizens from across the nation, the appointment still surprises Yvette with every salute.

Colonel Marc Bigaouette, Commander of 15 Wing explains that, ‘’the Air Force looks for role models, caring Canadians with strong values and ethics who have displayed leadership and a strong sense of community. Yvette Moore is all this and so much more.’’

The young girl on the farm may have never imagined herself in full military uniform, climbing aboard a Harvard II aircraft and taking flight, but just as she lives her life every day, she also knows dreams have no boundaries. The honour is one that Yvette respects profoundly: “It has opened up a whole new world for me to be part of the Canadian Forces in this capacity.

To meet the men and women and their families that are in the military and learn about their struggles and joys has been overwhelming and humbling. I have lived

Saskatchewan spirit.

From small town prairie girl to Honorary Colonel of 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Yvette’s ethic of hard work has been her strongest asset in achieving new levels of success each and every day. FLR

The gallery often hosts exclusively designed events for such groups ranging from the Court of Queen’s Bench judges to the Premiers Conference—welcoming guests from around the world into what has become one of Saskatchewan’s premier galleries. The Yvette Moore Gallery offers a first class venue complete with a unique prairie charm and hospitality. Yvette remarks that, “it has been an amazing opportunity to have a gallery in such a beautiful historic building that encapsulates the heritage and the artistry of Saskatchewan.”

The years of hard work and community commitment has led Yvette to many boards and organizations such as Tourism Moose Jaw, the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce, Southwest Tourism and Moose Jaw Arts in Motion, to name a few.

Acting as an example of entrepreneurial endurance and creative capabilities, her voice and dedication to the local arts community encourages many to pursue their own interests in the arts.

Honorary Colonel Yvette Moore & Colonel J.A.M. Bigaouette, Commander of 15 Wing Moose Jaw

As a single mother of four with a paintbrush and a dream, to a respected business owner, a celebrated and accomplished artist, and an honorary liaison with Canada’s most valiant institution, Yvette has learned every day by doing. No matter the title or accomplishment or success that continues to come her way, Yvette never leaves her roots far behind— the roots that are deeply embedded in the

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BIG CITY DEALS WITH A SMALL TOWN ATMOSPHERE Moose Jaw Ford is a great place to shop for your next vehicle. Close and convenient with small town personalized service. Come shop with us and have one of our professional sales people assist you today, helping you find the best vehicle and payment options to suit your personal needs with no pressure.

Come see us today! It will be worth your while to come visit us!

MOOSE JAW FORD 204 Manitoba Street West 306.693.0651 www.moosejawfordsales.com moosejawfordsales@sasktel.net

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THIS CHRISTMAS….WHEN YOU GIVE… GIVE WITH LOVE FROM CANADA. PHOTOS COURTESY OF YVETTE MOORE GALLERY

This year’s theme of Christmas at Yvette Moore Gallery is one that is consistent and unique with the gallery’s strong positioning strategy.

“Buying Canadian-made has never been as desirable as it is now,” says Chantelle Flanagan-Moore, the gallery’s sales and marketing director. “Since the Olympics, Canada has become such a strong brand as we proudly showcased our best to the world. Canadian-made products are an authentic and very desirable opportunity for customers to buy and give something that is unique and crafted with the highest quality.

the Gallery has become a very soughtafter shopping and dining destination, offering not only fabulous products, but an experience that customers long to have.”

“We have developed a very strong niche of items and artisans that showcase exclusively in the Gallery and offer our customers the finest collections of quality merchandise that will stand the test of time as true investments of art. Based around the renowned art of Yvette Moore,

“When I think of a destination store, I think of places like Harrods—luxury shopping destinations that can fulfill your shopping needs for everything and everyone,” says Chantelle. “This is one of my favourite places to shop, to experience, and I think our Gallery shares many similarities.”

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Situated in the grand setting of the former 1910 Land Titles building in Moose Jaw, upon entering the Yvette Moore Gallery you know you are in for a treat. Completely restored to its original grandeur, the art of Yvette Moore is not only on the walls, but everything within it is a true work of art in the craftsmanship that she and her family have invested into the pride of this landmark.

Aside from the art, the gallery showcases verything from exquisite flavours of the prairies such as Gravelbourg mustards to Saskatoon berry syrups, jams and teas to handcrafted delightful bourbon maple syrups. The Gallery’s line-up of fine foods is a perfect gift for hostesses, travellers or gift baskets.

Most popular this season are Aden & Anais blankets, Manhattan Toy Puppets, Crocodile Creek backpacks and lunch kits, and Baby Stella’s. Not to miss, though, is the great selection of handcrafted beautiful toques and hats for little ones made by a local mom in Moose Jaw. The perfect thing for Christmas pictures!

The Gallery also carries a very distinguished line-up for children’s and baby’s gifts.

Looking at registering for wedding gifts or needing corporate gift ideas. The Yvette Moore Gallery offers a wonderful gifting program that allows your guests or employees to pick and receive unique, quality gifts that will stand the test of time and symbolize corporately the highest praise of gratitude for much appreciated dedication to your company or wedding party.

“Most of what I choose are all products I have used for my own children and they have not just a functional use, but are aesthetically-appealing offering quality, durability and safety with little ones,” says Chantelle.

Your employees have the opportunity to choose everything from art to jewellery or personalize their own pottery selection.

So, if you are looking for gifts for your business associates, why not do a little shopping for your family and friends at the same time.

This season, put the Gallery on your list to shop seven days a week beginning November 13 for all your gifting needs.

And, best of all, you can feel great knowing you are giving with love… from Canada.

You truly can leave with it all—even wrapped! FLR Yvette Moore Gallery 76 Fairford St. W. Moose Jaw, Sk. 306.693.7600 or toll free 866.693.7600 www.yvettemoore.com

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estled in the Hammond Building in historic downtown Moose Jaw, you will discover these fine shops:

Cranberry Rose Boutique

Ellen’s on Main

Timeless Trend setting ladies fashions and accessories, home decor

This Christmas shop by candle light at Ellen’s

Mi-Dektree Designs

Players Collectibles

Is your unique boutique for all accessories, offering one of a kind items

Fine pottery by Moorcroft, Hand enameled dragons

Saigon 75

Ginger Bread Square Ladies Boutique

A Vietamese family restaurant

A “missy” store that offers dress and casual, well branded clothing

Veroba’s Family Restaurant

Veroba’s Family Restaurant

Home cooking at it’s best

Kitchen Gear

Knives, cookware & gadgets

Don’t miss “Christmas in October” which will be October 20,21,22 &23.

CHECK MERCHANTS FOR EXTENDED HOURS

The Hammond Building Merchants Main St. & Fairford St. W | Moose Jaw, Sk.

Home cooking at it’s best

The Cheese Factory

More than just cheese. Appetizers, olives, deli meats, treats, platters and gift cards

DESIGN BOUTIQUE CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY IN NEW DIGS

BY CARTER HAYDU

PHOTOS BY JOHN MORRELL PHOTOGRAPHY

ith the four-year anniversary since the opening of Jillian’s Design Elements just around the corner, owner Jillian Bilawchuk is thrilled to celebrate this milestone with the opening of her new location.

“I’ve always really appreciated the architecture of this building,” she says of her new digs, which were previously the Artistique hair salon and beauty school in Moose Jaw. As much as she liked the space, Jillian says it required a lot of work transforming it into an interior design boutique. She got it done, though, thanks largely to the help of family.

“It was in need of a major facelift. We did extensive renovations, pretty well gutting it,” she says.

However, after removing 20 sinks and redesigning the building’s interior—recycling as much as possible, the University of Alberta Human Ecology graduate reopened her store in June of this year.

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“And I’m so glad I did,” Jillian says, adding that the new location is the perfect space to showcase a variety of quality products.

Whether you are redesigning your entire space or just adding a few new items to freshen your room, Jillian’s has everything you require to update your look. From that perfect vase to coordinating toss cushions and drapery or perhaps even a cow hide area rug, Jillian and staff can help you transform your space to something off the pages of a magazine.

Canadian-made custom furniture from lines such as Van Gogh and Amisco allow you to order the perfect piece for your home. From sofa and chairs to barstools and beds, Jillian’s has it all.

PHOTOS BY JOHN MORRELL PHOTOGRAPHY

While Jillian says her store might not have an abundance of furniture products on location, she does a lot of ordering and her staff is eager to help customers find whatever tailor-made furniture best suits them.

Upon entering the doors of Jillian’s Design Elements you will be overwhelmed with excitement for the stunning items that surround you. The main floor of the boutique exhibits only the finest accessories for you and your home. From gorgeous fashion accessories such as jewellery, purses and scarves to the ideal centrepiece for your table or the perfect gift for your next dinner party, wedding or baby shower.

Jillian’s has just what you are looking for. With exclusive lines and unique items, the inventory is constantly changing, providing you with a new shopping experience every time. Jillian’s Design Elements is the perfect destination for all your Christmas shopping—big or small. FLR

A gift

The perfect gift

for that person on your list that has everything. An air purifying system that eliminates air born bacteria and leaves the space with a light refreshing scent.

Starting at $39.95

with personality and individuality.

Fixation is handmade jewellery from a Montreal Designer made of genuine leather; each piece is a work of art.

Bracelet $49 Necklace $59

JILLIAN BILAWCHUK JILLIAN’S DESIGN ELEMENTS

For the little

reindeer on your list, these adorable holiday socks are inexpensive and fun to give and to receive.

Ethanol fireburners are all the rage this year. Great for indoors or out, they create a spectacular ambiance to set the stage for a great evening.

Ethanol Burners $79

Baby Santa Socks $9

621 Main St. | Moose Jaw. Sk | 306.693.0673 www.jilliandesignelements.com FineLifestyles REGINA

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Christmas In October We have over a dozen dazzling Christmas trees you can shop from to add to your selection or give as gifts. Our clothing styles cover cozy and comfortable to glitz and glamour for the holiday season. Designer items from Frank Lyman, Cartise, Nueva as well as the popular Jag jeans are in abundance. Trend setting accessories include scarves, jewellery, boots and shoes. Also, for this special season we have holiday gift sets from Fruits & Passion to soothe our senses and fill our homes with scents of the season. Perfect for gift or home are Decorative Lamp Burners with a variety of scented oils to choose from. To pamper that special someone you may want to consider our nourishing line of Black Pearl skin products. Gift cards are also available for your convenience. We look forward to serving you this festive season. We’d be happy to wrap that special gift.

Cranberry Rose 316 Main St. N. Moose Jaw, Sk. Phone: 306.693.7779 www.cranberryrose.com

Christmas Open House October 20-23rd

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ome to Gales where all your wedding dreams come true.

GALE’S FLORIST 3004 13th Ave | 306.757.3030 2002 Dewdney Ave. | 306.949.1266 www.galesflorist.com

Let us take care of your special day...

Chair Covers

Candy Bars

Backdrops

Invitations

Guest Books

Sand Ceremony Supplies

Cake and Cupcake Stands

Hollywood Carpets

Favors

Garters

Card Boxes

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Centerpieces

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Linens

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A Tymeless Event Wedding Boutique & Rentals www.tymeless.ca

359B Albert Street | Regina, Sk. 306.550.3340

EXPERTAdvice SOUND ADVICE FOR SOUND CHOICES

Cécile Denis - B.M., M.M.

(University of Toronto) Principal Harp with the RSO and the SSO 306.540.6428 ceciledenis@live.ca. www.ceciledenis.com Adding live music to special occasions is an excellent way to ensure that they have both a touch of elegance and a great deal of enjoyment for your guests. This is true for receptions, Christmas parties, corporate events, weddings, anniversary celebrations, and more. Allow me to share six tips I have learned from more than ten years of playing the harp at private functions.

1. To begin with, there are several places where you can find a list of musicians to consider hiring. Both the Regina Musicians Association and the Regina Symphony Orchestra websites have a “Musicians for Hire” section where you can find contact information for performers, including me, who may be available to play at your event.

2. It is highly advisable to book far enough ahead. For summer events held on Saturdays, six to 12 months in advance will help secure your date and avoid disappointment. For other times in the year, three to six months ahead is often still workable.

3. When contacting musicians, do not hesitate to ask about their training and level of experience. Learning about their education will give you both an indication of their proficiency and some idea of the sound you will get. I trained both in France and Canada, so I have been told I have a unique sound, one that combines the light, singing French sound with the power behind the North American sound.

Also, check to see if you can hear their playing. Many musicians now have a website featuring samples of their music, or, even better, ask to attend one of their live performances.

4. Whether your event will be held indoors or outside, you will need to make sure the space and environment are appropriate for musicians. For example, when I play outdoors, my harp needs to be placed under a tent and on a platform to ensure it is protected from the elements.

5. Consider what instruments would best suit your occasion: A string quartet?

A jazz trio? A harp and violin duo? Or a solo instrument? When you are making your decision about the instruments, take into account whether you want the music to be in the background, so that people can chat, or front and centre for their listening enjoyment. For example, I can play acoustically or amplified according to the intent of the music for your occasion, the size of the venue and the number of guests present.

6. Enquire about the kind of repertoire your live musicians enjoy playing.

I have a wide repertoire that includes classical music from the medieval period, the Renaissance, through to modern composers such as Ravel. I also play South American and jazz music.

With just a little planning in advance, adding live music to your event will make it a truly memorable affair.

Cécile Denis can be contacted either by phone at 540-6428 or by email at ceciledenis@live.ca. Visit www.ceciledenis.com for further information.

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A-1 RENT-ALLS: Your Only Stop for Party Essentials

BY MACKENZIE BROOKS

PHOTO COURTESY OF A-1 RENT-ALLS

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hat do piñatas, port glasses and portable bars have in common?

They are all party essentials and available at A-1 Rent-Alls The Party Store.

Is your pretty princess demanding an allpink and plumed sweet sixteen? Is someone you know getting to be “that age?”

Are you hosting a backyard barbecue for 50, or even a large-scale event like a concert or a country fair? If you have an upcoming event, A-1 Rent-Alls is your first and last stop—a landmark in Regina for party preparations.

For more than 30 years, and for three generations, the Wright family has been putting their best into A-1 Rent-Alls and the result is a warehouse of available party must-haves for every type of social event life brings your way. Together, the staff at A-1 Rent-Alls has cornered the market on what you really need to plan your next event—even if what you really need is a slush machine. Yes, they have that, and yes, you can rent it for your next fiesta.

“We have years of expertise behind us,” explained Desiree. “We are well-stocked with everything you need. From flatware, glassware and linens, tables and chairs— even delivery, set-up and pick-up. With our years in the industry, we are well equipped to make suggestions to improve your party plans and even save you some money.” she continued.

“We’ve handled just about every type of event you can imagine,” added owner, Dave Wright. “We’ve done staging and seating set-ups for big events like rock concerts, but we are also in the business of corporate events, weddings and general party merchandise for public consumption.”

With their scope of experience, it’s not surprising that A-1 Rent-Alls has seen every type of customer imaginable come through their doors. Whether they are brides- and grooms-to-be, friends hosting baby showers or clients looking to rent tenting, staging and sound systems for large-scale outdoor concerts or company picnics, the team at A-1 Rent-Alls handles all their clients with pride of place on customer focus and each of A-1 Rent-Alls employees have personalities to make you feel welcome and, well, ready to party.

A-1 Rent-Alls is located in Regina, but that hasn’t stopped them from branching out. Their customer service and reliability is so well known, they have travelled for events big and small all across the prairie provinces from Dauphin, Manitoba to British Columbia. “We don’t like to say no to anyone,” said Desiree. “If we have the availability in our rental schedule, we can accommodate anyone who needs our services and go anywhere we’re needed, and if that means we have to go to Calgary one

weekend and out to Fort Qu’Appelle the next, we will.”

Some of the team’s most recent events include the Dauphin Country Music Festival, the University of Regina’s Orientation Week and they continue to be the premier supplier of the practice field and game sponsor tenting for every Saskatchewan Roughriders home game.

When planning a party, we all know that when the party comes to an end, takedown is the last thing you want to do. If you don’t care for it, leave it to A-1 RentAlls—they work hard for you, so you can concentrate on being the host.

For premium party supplies and personalities as fun as your next great event, visit A-1 Rent-Alls The Party Store for advice, a warehouse full of party essentials and rest assured the focus will always be on you and your event. Visit the showroom at 1500 Dewdney Avenue or on the web at www.rent1.net and set your next great event in motion with expert service and advice. FLR

A-1 Rent-Alls 1270 Halifax St Regina, Sk. 306.352.-1440 www.rent1.net

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PHOTOS BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO

BY RYAN HOLOTA eople need to eat. It’s not surprising then, that humankind has taken this mundane task and worked tirelessly for millennia to turn food into an art form. Cooking has, for our North American culture, become almost a spectator sport television shows extol the beauty of.

Red Seal Certified Chef Tina Marie Zelinski, owner of the LB Café, has always strived to make all of her food delicious and beautiful. She has been working on her art, and it has impressed the likes of Queen Elizabeth, Bill Clinton, and many other members of the wealthy, fabulous, and famous crowd.

She also serves up the same food for all of us in Regina. Her restaurant, the LB Café, is located in the heart of Wascana Park in the CBC building. Open for breakfast, lunch, and Sunday Brunch, LB Café is available for anybody to walk in and grab a table.

The location is beautiful. Floor to ceiling glass walls and a giant, tiled mural decorate the light and airy space. The location is so welcoming that many people choose to hold events in the space—it is available for rent on evenings and weekends. The dining room can hold 100 people in comfort, and a private room is available that can seat an additional 20. Many of Chef Tina’s guests have held weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, retirement celebrations, fundraisers, business lunches and more.

Around this time of year, the LB Café starts to book up fast with Christmas

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parties. Few want to admit that snow will be here sooner rather than later, and some stores are already selling Christmas decorations. So, if you want your chance to get a great space and a great selection of food, act quickly, lest you have your staff Christmas party in January.

For those with discerning palates who want great food but already have the location of their dreams in mind, Chef Tina also does a lot of outside catering.

“We can prepare food for almost any number of people. This past spring we did lunch for 600; even the largest wedding is well within our capabilities,” she says.

This is a surprising number when you consider that all of the food is fresh, homemade, and often locally sourced.

“In the winter we need to source produce from suppliers, but even our fruits and vegetables are bought locally when they are available. I’m really picky with my supplies. No matter where it comes from, I always go through every piece and send back the items that don’t meet my expectations.”

There aren’t a lot of restaurants anymore that makes each cabbage roll by hand, but the LB Café does. Even their sausage is a

special item. It’s made by local butcher Frank’s meats to Chef Tina’s exacting specifications.

Perhaps you don’t need to feed several hundred people; maybe you are holding a business luncheon for five or 10 special guests. LB Café has you covered there too.

With no minimum orders or minimum charges, they can prepare exactly the meal that you are looking for. Need to feed your entire staff on the cheap? They offer excellent cold sandwiches for as little at $5.99 per person. Need to impress a client? Succulent prime rib and lobster should do the trick.

Sunday Brunch Open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday, the brunch features a huge variety of foods, including Eggs Benedict, quiche, sausages, pie, Chef Tina’s world famous cinnamon buns, and an endless assortment of baking. Absolutely everything is made in house, and by hand.

There are no defrosted pastries in this buffet spread. As word spreads of the quality and freshness of the food more and more people show up. Reservations are recommended. FLR

TINA ZELINSKI- LB CAFÉ

LB Café 2440 Broad St. Regina, Sk. 306.586.0800 tina@lbcafe.com www.lbcafe.com

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ffordable. legant. eautiful.

wedding gowns bridesmaid dresses mother of the bride / groom dresses flower girl dresses prom dresses wedding accessories decoration packages (set up & take down) decor rentals (chair & table covers, sashes, arches, centerpieces, back drops and much more)

trendz 155 Albert St. | Regina, Sk. | 306.522.2189 info@weddingtrendz.org www.weddingtrendz.net

Whether elegant or whimsical, glamorous or chic, Sugar! Wedding Cakes will design a beautiful cake to perfectly complement your celebration and unique sense of style. Our cakes are delicious and our passion and expertise are evident in the smallest of details.

Put a little Sugar! in your Big Day!

wedding cakes

Regina, Saskatchewan 306.536.9607 sheena@sugarweddingcakes.com | www.sugarweddingcakes.com

EXPERTAdvice PLANNING YOUR WEDDING Beautiful Beginnings

Amber Thomas

Beautiful Beginnings Regina, Sk. 306.581.7222 beautifulchair@hotmail.com www.beautifulchair.ca You want your wedding to be as special as it can possibly be, and I have the experience to help make your planning of the decorations a smooth, effortless process. With my five years of industry experience, I can help you produce beautiful results with a minimum of effort on your part.

The first thing I’d like everyone to know about the decorations for their special day is that having beautiful linens can help make your experience truly memorable. Quality linens help every venue to look wonderful, and we have a lot of older halls here in Regina that get a lot of use. When high-quality linens are placed in those halls, it can transform them and turn any event held there into a luxury occasion.

Many people think about the reception itself when they consider getting linens, and certainly that is an important time to

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feature beautiful decorations. There is so much that can be done with linens, not just with chair coverings, but also with the head table décor, cake table décor, registry table décor, and more.

current fashions, and we can suggest many added touches that will make your event be beautiful. Those added touches can be anything from centrepieces with real flowers to a ceiling canopy.

Although the reception is perhaps the most frequent time that linens are used, don’t forget the other times you could incorporate them. You might like to have them featured at the bridal shower and the rehearsal dinner as well as the ceremony itself.

Make sure that you consider your booking far enough in advance. At the minimum, if you want to be sure to get what you want, book at least six to eight months in advance.

Ideally you would be booking a year in advance. There’s no need to book earlier than that, because you don’t want to make your plans too early and wind up changing your mind as you develop new ideas.

You may have your own ideas about what you’d like to see done with the linens.

For example, you might like to focus on matching your colour scheme, or you might like to have a theme that matches the season. Often people have a destination wedding and then enjoy recreating that setting at a reception they hold when they return. It can be a great deal of fun to have a beach atmosphere set up in the middle of winter after a wedding in Hawaii. Whatever your wishes, they’re certainly something you should mention.

However, if you’re not sure what you’d like to do, that’s fine too. We keep up with

Finally, it’s important for everyone to realize that no matter what your budget is, you can have beautiful linens. It’s possible for you to have a high-end look for your event without getting too expensive.

We’ll have a lot of fun being creative with your linens, and we’ll ensure you won’t have a wedding the same as everyone else’s. FHR To reach Amber Thomas call 581-7222 or email beautifulchair@hotmail.com.

ou know you want to look great, but you need a little help getting there. District Fitness Studio can help. All of the trainers at DFS have university degrees in kinesiology or chiropractic medicine, so they understand the science behind exercise, not just technique.

The studio’s morale is extremely positive and the vibe is friendly and easy-going. Most importantly, the clients get results!

IT’S YOUR WEDDING- MEET THE TRAINERS

NEIL TKATCHUK

Ashley’s goal is to take the fitness industry to a new level by encouraging a high level of professionalism, experience and expertise. A competitive speed skater, Ashley knows what it takes to get you into the best shape of your life and have fun doing it.

306.527.6169 ashley.shumate@gmail.com www.districtfitnessstudio.com

TREVOR FOLGERING

Trevor Folgering leads a team of fitness professionals who will motivate, educate, and inspire you to revolutionize your body.

Home of the $10,000 Body Revolution Challenge that gives you the opportunity to drastically change your body in 90 days and a chance to win $10,000! info@bodyrevolution.ca www.bodyrevolution.ca

At Trench Fitness, the goal is to give you all of the tools you need to reach your fitness and health goals. It is our belief that your success is dictated by your dedication to the 4 Pillars of the Trench: Mindset and Motivation, Nutrition, Training, and Supplementation. Trench Fitness aims to promote a healthy and fit lifestyle that is sustainable.

306.596.1447 neil@trenchfitness.com www.trenchfitness.com

DANIEL INCE

ASHLEY SHUMATE

DR. BEN MATHESON

Dr. Matheson’s background in sports led him to pursue a degree in kinesiology at the University of Regina, but the quickly evolving field of chiropractic medicine enticed Ben to Toronto to study at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. Ben employs a combination of manual therapies, including spinal manipulation, exercise, benmathesondc@gmail.com 306.596.9932 Born and raised in Regina, Daniel is passionate about fitness for performance and a better quality of life.

As a kinesiologist, certified personal trainer, and an NCCP-certified coach, he focuses on making an impact on your lifestyle; whether pushing you to the top of a sport or helping you get more out of life.

306.581.1090 danieljince@gmail.com

Are You A Great Remedial Massage Therapist? We’d Like To Talk To You! District Fitness Studio | 306.527.6169 | www.districtfitnessstudio.com FineLifestyles REGINA

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VALLEY PORTRAITS Professional, Personable and Passionate about Your Wedding

BY LISA DEGELMAN

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHARON CLARK- VALLEY PORTRAITS

haron Clark, who resides in Balgonie, worked in the financial business for sixteen years before she decided to make a life change. While staying home with her three boys, she was asked by a friend if she could take a family shot for their annual Christmas card. Having an interest in photography, Sharon agreed, but certainly didn’t think of making a career out of it. Once the cards were mailed out, she began getting requests from friends of her friend to take their family photos and similarly those people told more people—the rest is history.

“Photography is a way of feeling, touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever… it remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.” ~ Aaron Siskind Sharon established Valley Portraits seven years ago and is doing what she loves, helping people preserve memories for eternity. Whether capturing your engagement, maternity, newborn, family or wedding shots, Sharon will do it with passion and creativity, all while having a lot of fun.

“If my clients are having a good time while we are working together then I feel I am doing a good job!” explains Sharon. “I will always keep an eye out for detail, and will direct people during our session, but I will keep the mood light with laughter and enjoyment.”

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTIE PHAM

Your Wedding Day is about Capturing Memories From the initial phone call and consultation through to the delivery of high resolution negatives or proof albums, Sharon feels a huge sense of honour being a part of your special day. “I spend more one-onone time with the bride and groom that day than anyone else does. It’s a huge privilege to be invited into this most cherished time,” Sharon proudly says. As such, she does not want any detail, little or large, forgotten.

This personable photographer is always

on her toes: shooting the bride walking down the aisle then quickly turning to capture the groom’s first look after seeing his bride, or asking the couple to snuggle together while she changes lenses but capturing a shot without them knowing she is ready. It is these moments that cannot be staged or posed.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHARON CLARK- VALLEY PORTRAITS

Brides, be assured Sharon will not only capture and preserve memories of your details and the love of your day, she is not afraid to take on jobs that may need to be carried out. “I have pinned on many boutonnieres, delivered many rings and have tied many ties!” laughs Sharon.

While Sharon is inspired by former Regina photographers Richard and Amy McDowell of Red Leaf Photography, Jose Villa and Jasmine Star both of California and Christie Pham, currently in Hawaii, she has established a style of her own. “I love working in the country; I love fields with tall weeds, grasses and pastures; I love texture and areas or items with lots of character; and I love to capture non-posed and unplanned shots full of emotion.”

Sharon keeps up-to-date with the trends in photography and editing technology and attends different workshops throughout North America every couple of years, but has primarily gained knowledge and skill through reading and the good old trial and error process.

Sharon amalgamated her company’s website and blog in May 2009 to provide potential clients a tool to easily view her work. Valleyportraits.ca also provides a sense of Sharon’s gregarious personality and ability to seize incredible moments that may otherwise go unnoticed.

If you are planning your special day, and do not want a cherished moment forgotten, visit www.valleyportraits.ca.

Contact Sharon Clark for a consultation at 771 4900 or 570 3530 or valleyportraits@ sasktel.net. FLR Valley Portraits by Sharon Clark Box 400, Balgonie, Sk. Studio - 306.771.4900 Cell - 306-570-3530 www.valleyportraits.ca

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EXPERTAdvice

NAIL CARE

PHOTOS BY SHAWN FULTON

Tonya Gilbert

Polished Nails and Esthetics 2204 McIntyre St. 306.551.4535

S

ometimes women spend hours shopping for just the right shoes, just the right clothes, just the right accessories. They’ll take most of an afternoon to choose a dress, all day to choose a purse—but all the time they’re forgetting about one of the most important elements of their overall look: their nails.

helps keep cuticles healthy and nails looking nice. In addition, it’s important to use cuticle oil: this prevents hard cuticles, split skin and hangnails.

Do you bite your nails? Proper and professional nail care can help you have proper and healthy-looking nails, too.

And don’t think you have to have false nails to have nice looking nails. There’s a great, healthy alternative!

Gelicure is a soak-off gel polish. It’s applied like a nail polish and cured under a UV or LED lamp. It provides a high-gloss finish that lasts up to three weeks, with no chipping and peeling.

Not only that, it soaks off in 15 minutes!

They shouldn’t! Having your nails done professionally makes you feel complete, confident, polished and manicured. In fact, I always say not having your nails done is like baking a cake and then leaving off the icing.

Gelicure is perfect for the working Mom, whether she works inside or out of the home, the amateur gardener...anyone, of any age, from young girls to mature women.

And there’s a colour for everyone, too!

Some women think they’re just too busy, that they don’t have even an hour to spare in their day to spend on having their nails done. But you know what? Having your nails done is about more than just having pretty nails. That hour spent on your nails is also an hour spent relaxing, treating yourself, and enjoying some quality time alone.

Fingernails aren’t the only nails that need professional care. Don’t forget about your toes! Our feet are good to us, keeping us upright for hours every day, getting us from point A to point B—they deserve a little a TLC, too. Get a pedicure and get your toe nails done, too! You’ll feel great about yourself and your feet will thank you, too.

Two little things that make nails look nice are shaping and filing. Having these done

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And when you decide to change nails, don’t forget that if you have your nails professionally done you should also have

them professionally taken off, to avoid pain and ruined nail beds.

When you’re busy trying to make a great impression, it’s important not to overlook the little things. Fingernails and toe nails may not be very big, but treat them well, with professional nail care, and they’ll make you feel, and look, terrific! FLR

EXPERTAdvice HAIR EXTENSIONS

On your wedding day, your hair is as important as your bridal gown. Whether you want to add length or just fullness, I recommend our 100 per cent human hair extensions.

Hair extensions can also be made into a hairpiece that you can keep for life, if you choose not to have sewn in cornrows for continuous wear. Human hair pieces would be very expensive if bought seperately.

These extensions can be washed, dried and styled as you would natural hair. They don’t require any special treatment and are just as easy to care for as your own hair. We use a sewn-in-method that is completely hidden amongst your own hair. This method will not damage your hair and will never slip or fall out. The natural hairline is free of tracks so you are able to pull your hair back or up beautifully.

For more information about human hair extensions or to book your free consultation, please visit our website at www.regenthair.com or call Shelley at 306.543.7447.

Incorporate hair extensions into your wedding day budget. You’ll be glad you did!

See the difference in the LOOK of this bride pictured below, showing the beauty of this hair option for your wedding day!FLR

We have an industry-leading 12 years of experience in sewn-in-hair extensions, ensuring a top-quality product application each and every time. We can also have you in and out of the salon with a new set of styled extensions in just one afternoon!

Shelley Demitor

Regent Park Hair Studio 3843 Sherwood Dr. Regina, Sk. 306.543.7447

Regent Park Hair Studio has more than 500 pictures of previous clients with hair extensions. You can see some of these photos and testimonials on our website or come by in person and check out our photo albums. We also have top quality 100 per cent human hair in stock.

BEFORE

AFTER

Black Tie

Limo Service

KELLIE FOX MATT EVANS

306.520.8181

EXPERTAdvice BECOME PARTNERS IN LIFE IN PAPADISE

With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, the options are endless.

It is important that the setting be as enchanting, whether you are tying the knot or renewing your vows. Plus, the best part is that all the arrangements are taken care of. Leave all the preparations and concerns to us and focus on what matters the most: relax, look forward to the big day, and maybe work on your tan!

Tammy Prost- CTC, DWS Certified Travel Counsellor and Destination Wedding Specialist 306.530.3841 tammy@tpitropicalescapes.ca www.tpitropicalescapes.ca Congratulations from TPI - Tropical Escapes. We offer travel options specifically designed for about-to-beweds, newly-weds and the romantic-atheart!

There is nothing more precious than having your dream wedding come true.

Planning a wedding these days can be very stressful and expensive. This is why so many couples want to celebrate their wedding, honeymoon and a much-needed vacation all in one.

Having a dream wedding and honeymoon in paradise is a break from the everyday tradition, and gives the couple a stylish expression of their love for one another.

From an exciting Las Vegas-style wedding to a romantic sunset ceremony on a beach, there are a variety of packages to select from, ranging from quick and simple “I do,” to large, lavish ceremonies.

It can be intimate, featuring just the two of you, or it can include family and friends to join in the celebration—they could use a vacation, too!

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TPI - Tropical Escapes is a certified destination wedding design company.

We specialize in consulting, planning and coordinating destination weddings, honeymoons and romantic escapes to the most beautiful destinations in the world. TPI - Tropical Escapes has assisted couples with their dream destination weddings since 2000.

Tammy Prost I started this division as an addition to my travel agency, TPI – Your Holiday Headquarters. I felt it deserved it have its own identity, and it is now the main focus of my business. I believe that the wedding couples deserve to have my full attention when planning one of the biggest days of their new life together.

As a Certified Travel Counsellor (CTC) and a Destination Wedding Specialist (DWS), I love to travel the world, and then share my experience and professional knowledge with my clients.

As a destination wedding bride myself, I know first-hand what needs to be done, exactly how perfect it needs to be, and what is to be expected.

It started 10 years ago when my husband and I wanted to have a destination wedding. At that time, no one had any idea where to start or what was required to have a wedding away. After many months of research, I planned and booked our destination wedding in Hawaii. After

realizing that there must be other couples dreaming of a destination wedding, but have no idea where to start, I decided to start my own company and help couples with their dream wedding.

I’m a big romantic at heart, that is one of the reasons we try to renew our vows every year. Not only do I get to re-marry my soul mate again and again in the most beautiful and romantic places, this also gives me a chance to experience the destinations first hand. It’s important for me to get to know the culture, get acquainted with the local wedding coordinators and become knowledgeable with the marriage requirements and other destination details.

I have a strong commitment, passion and desire to make every couple’s dream wedding come true, and in any destination they desire. Besides planning our destination wedding in Hawaii we have renewed our vows In Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Las Caletas in Puerto Vallarta; Varadero, Cuba; at a drive-thru wedding chapel in Las Vegas; and in Los Cabos, Mexico.

A paradise promise to you TPI - Tropical Escapes will reduce the stress of planning the special day by helping couples find a beautiful destination, the perfect resort and the romantic wedding package to suit their needs. So start working with me today, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that every last detail is going to receive dedicated and expert attention!

DISCOVERY FINANCIAL GROUP LTD.

BY RYAN HOLOTA

hen two people get married, their finances become one. Shared dreams of retirement, travel, and adventure stop being something you dream about doing ‘one day’ and take on a more meaningful, concrete feeling. You’re now married, and one day you will retire together.

It can be a little daunting.

Thankfully, helping people realize their financial goals and dreams is the main focus of Ken Crosson and his partner (and daughter) Tara-Lee Crosson. With more than 34 years of experience as a Financial Planner, Ken Crosson has helped countless clients from marriage through to their eventual retirement, and still works tirelessly for his existing and new clients. “We’re not a cookie cutter investment firm,” says Ken. “We work really hard to identify who our clients are, and to help them set goals that are achievable. Then, instead of offering all of our clients the same handful of options, we work with all of our suppliers to select the right options for them.”

L TO R: JADE LAROSE, TARA-LEE CROSSON, LEONA HERTZOG, KEN CROSSON, JUDI THIESSEN

When Tara-Lee, who has a background in finance and insurance sales, joined the Discovery Financial team in 2008, she brought something to the table that Discovery recommends for their clients—succession planning. “My dad loves his work, and comes into the office everyday with a tonne of energy to work for his clients,” she says. “But eventually he is going to retire. Now that I work here, our clients can benefit from both of our experience, and know that their financial plans have a very long-term outlook. They won’t need to start everything over in three or five or 10 years because their planner retired; they will be able to just keep on, secure in the knowledge that the same philosophy that has always done well for them in the past will keep working for them in the future.” FLR

320 Gardiner Park Court Regina, Sk. 306.522.5674

Juggling a family, a house, & a wedding was a struggle financially, so when attending the Wedding Expo in 2009, we were introduced to Tara-Lee Crosson. She met with us in the comfort of our home & gave us reassurance towards financial freedom. She provided us with excellent suggestions for investments & we no longer worry about having enough to live comfortably in the years to come.

- KAYLA AND DONNIE THOMPSON FineLifestyles REGINA

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From Polkas to Garters...

Bouquet Toss to Top 40 We’re Your Wedding Entertainment Specialists!

Weddings, Banquets, Parties... a place to fit the

Whole Family!

G. Marconi

Canadian Italian Club 2148 Connaught Street Regina, Sk. 306.525.8181

Jason Hubbs 306.539.5754 kingscourtmusic@sasktel.net www.kingscourtmusic.com

Regina Budget Blinds Is Regina And Surrounding Area’s #1 Choice For All Window Covering Needs!

BUDGET BLINDS IS NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST WINDOW COVERING COMPANY, WHICH PROVIDES THE COMPETITIVE EDGE ON PRODUCTS AND BUYING POWER. Locally owned and operated, Leanne Fisher is proud to call Saskatchewan home again after moving to Alberta for college 13 years ago! “If you ask any of our staff why we do what we do...they will all answer...because we get to meet so many great people”! Our staff makes the difference! In addition to providing customers with education about each product at a competitive price – our staff truly cares about facilitating a fun, professional in-home atmosphere to make the window covering process easy! If it’s having product air shipped and installing at 11 p.m. on a Friday night to prepare for a wedding the following day, or aiding an elder customer with cleaning her windows while we’re up on the ladder – we are different – we go the extra mile!

We are out to change how you buy window coverings! Shop where your windows are. We come to you! Explore fabrics, materials, choices and features from hundreds of product styles and colors. We measure so you get the perfect fit, and then provide professional installation to ensure a beautiful view!

PLEASE CALL 306.949.2300 TO BOOK YOUR FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION

® ®

534 University Park Drive, Regina, Sk. e-mail mlfisher@budgetblinds.com www.budgetblinds.com

ive in beautiful surroundings of Emerald Park, White City today!

Homes, lots & townhomes available now Large lots, most 0.4 acres to over .75 acre Many back the 18th hole of Aspen Links Golf and Country Club Many walkouts available Fully serviced Only 10 minutes East of Regina 5 Year Golf membership included

NOW SELLING IN WHITE CITY Contact Blair at 306.539.1027 or Ken at 306.529.5456

Aspen Village Properties

Aspen Village Properties Ltd. 310 Emerald Park Road | Emerald Park, Sk. | 306.539.1027