FineLifestyles Regina Winter 2010

FineLifestyles

REGINA

WINTER 2010 VOLUME 2, ISSUE 4

VICTOR SAWA

REGINA IN

making your dream a reality

Architectural and Structural CAD Drafting to suit all your projects.

Renovations, new homes, multi-family dwelling unit, leasehold improvements, shops and light commercial projects.

535-9197

GILCHUK DESIGN & DRAFTING

The World of Holiday Gifts

Available Exclusively at

Garden Architecture & Design 315 Avenue A South  306.651.2828  www.gardenarchitecture.ca

ROB TEMSLAND-FLEET MANAGER

RECOMMENDS

LINE-X SPRAY-ON TRUCK BEDLINERS

IN EVERY TRUCK THEY SELL!

Call Custom Car Care for your Line-X sprayon bedliner today!

Custom Car Care LINE-X 1308 McIntrye St Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.569.2273 www.line-x.ca

We Work for You

Visit us at our new location at www.saskinsurance.com for more information on SGI Canada products and to find out how this button

can make your life so much easier.

Auto

•

Home

•

Commercial

•

Travel

•

Surety

4615 Albert Street 302 University Park Drive (South Albert, next to McDonald’s near (Just Northeast of Arcola Avenue) Gordon Road) Phone: 306-791-3474 Phone: 306-789-8384 www.saskinsurance.com BUT……we would still like to see you drop into one of our offices where our Friendly, Courteous & Professional staff can do these transactions FOR YOU.

Enjoy the attraction of the great outdoors.

Maybe you should get out more.

2011 Outback 2.5i Convenience Japanese and a whole lot more!

Standard features: UÊ À â Ì> Þ «« Ãi` -1 ,1 "8 , i } i Ü Ì £Çä * UÊ È Ã«ii` > Õ> /À> à Ãà ­È /® UÊ -ÕL>ÀÕ ÃÞ iÌÀ V> vÕ Ì i 7 ii À Ûi ÃÞÃÌi UÊ 6i V i Þ > Và ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi > ` /À>VÌ ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi Roof rails with integrated swing-in-place crossbars

UÊ iVÌÀ V À> i v ÀVi ÃÌÀ LÕÌ ­ ®

Large cargo area

New! Foldable door mirrors

UÊ À V ` Ì } Ü Ì > À w ÌÀ>Ì UÊ * ÜiÀ >` ÕÃÌ>L i] v `>L i > ` i>Ìi` ` À ÀÀ ÀÃ UÊ ,> Ãi` À v À> Ã Ü Ì Ìi}À>Ìi` ÃÜ } « >Vi VÀ ÃÃL>ÀÃ

Starting from

$28,995

Optional features:

*

UÊ È VÞ `iÀ -1 ,1 "8 , i } i] Î°È ] Ü Ì ÓxÈ *

Financing and leasing available

UÊ i>ÀÌÀ V® 6/ Ü Ì > Õ> `i > ` «>`` i Ê Ã vÌ V ÌÀ à À x ëii` iVÌÀ V ÀiVÌ ÌÀ Ê ÕÌ >Ì V /À> à ÃÃ Ü Ì > Õ> `i UÊ * ÜiÀ Ì Ì } > ` à ` } } >Ãà À v Ü Ì ÃÕ Ã >`i UÊ i>Ì iÀ ÜÀ>««i` ÃÌiiÀ } Ü ii UÊ {{ä Ü>ÌÌ] n V > i >À > >À` ® > « wiÀ UÊ ÕiÌ Ì ® hands-free system (voice activated)

▼

Drive over 1,000 km per tank

Canadian utility vehicle of the year ◊ Best new SUV/CUV (under $35,000)

AUTO GALLERY SUBARU 609 WINNIPEG STREET REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN S4P 8P2

UÊ *- 6 L>Ãi` >Û }>Ì ÃÞÃÌi ­Û Vi >VÌ Û>Ìi`® UÊ ÕiÌ Ì ® streaming audio UÊ i` > ÕL v À * `®/USB audio integration ` ÕV Àio

525.6700 1.888.763.6700 www.autogallery.com

The small Japanese car that’s quite an attraction!

The Japanese car the Germans wish they’d made.

FEATURING:

UÊÊ À â Ì> Þ «« Ãi` { VÞ `iÀ -1 ,1 "8 , i } i] Ê Ó°x ] Ü Ì £Çä ÀÃi« ÜiÀ UÊ x ëii` > Õ> /À> à Ãà ­x /® Ü Ì `iÀ ÃÞÃÌi UÊ -ÕL>ÀÕ ÃÞ iÌÀ V> vÕ Ì i 7 ii À Ûi ÃÞÃÌi UÊ 6i V i Þ > Và ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi > ` /À>VÌ ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi UÊ Ì V À> } -ÞÃÌi Ü Ì iVÌÀ V À> i v ÀViÊÊÊ Ê ÃÌÀ LÕÌ ­ ® -ÌiiÀ }ÊÜ ii ÊÜ Ì Ê Ìi}À>Ìi`Ê VÀÕ ÃiÊV ÌÀ

*Ài Õ Ê>Õ` ÊÃÞÃÌi

* ÜiÀ >` ÕÃÌ>L iÊ` ÀÊ ÀÀ ÀÃ]Ê i>Ìi`Ê> `Êv `>L i

UÊ À V ` Ì } Ü Ì > À w ÌÀ>Ì UÊ * ÜiÀ >` ÕÃÌ>L i] v `>L i > ` i>Ìi` ` À ÀÀ ÀÃ

AVAILABLE:

UÊ { ëii` iVÌÀ V ÀiVÌ ÌÀ ÕÌ >Ì V /À> à ÃÃ Ü Ì Ê > Õ> `i ­{ /® UÊ ,> Þ Ã« ÀÌ ÃÌÞ i vÀ Ì Ãi>Ìà À i>Ìi` vÀ Ì Ãi>Ìà UÊ £Ç V > Õ Õ > Þ Ü ii à UÊ iÀ `Þ > V à `i }À Õ ` ivviVÌà UÊ * ÜiÀ Ì Ì } > ` à ` } } >Ãà À v Ü Ì ÃÕ Ã >`i

Best Mid-Compact Car‡

2011 Impreza 2.5i Japanese and a whole lot more!

UÊ i` > ÕL v À * `®É1- >Õ` Ìi}À>Ì

Starting from

$20,995

AUTO GALLERY SUBARU 609 WINNIPEG STREET REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN S4P 8P2

*

UÊ - À Õî ->Ìi Ìi ,>` ÃÌ> i` ­Î Ì ÌÀ > V Õ`i`®

UÊ ÕiÌ Ì ® > `Ã vÀii ÃÞÃÌi ­Û Vi >VÌ Û>Ìi`® UÊ i>Ì iÀ ÜÀ>««i` ÃÌiiÀ } Ü ii > ` }i>À Ãi iVÌ À ` ÕV Àio

525.6700 1.888.763.6700 www.autogallery.com

Ê

[[Ï Ï\Ï Ï] Ï Ï +21. $ 0 X V L F D O 7D O H R I 7 K H 8 J O \ ' X FN O L Q J 1 29 '( & -USICÒBYÒ'EORGEÒ3TILES "OOKÒANDÒ,YRICSÒBYÒ!NTHONYÒ$REWE $IRECTEDÒBYÒ*ILLIANÒ+EILEY

"ASEDÏONÏONEÏOFÏ(ANSÏ#HRISTIANÏ!NDERSEN SÏMOSTÏBELOVEDÏTALES ÏTHISÏ HIGH ENERGYÏMUSICALÏCOMEDYÏTELLSÏTHEÏSTORYÏOFÏ5GLY ÏTHEÏDUCKLINGÏWHOÏISÏ BORNÏINTOÏRIDICULEÏANDÏLONELINESSÏBECAUSEÏHEÏISÏDIFFERENT

* L Y H W K H J L I W R I OLYH WKHDWUH &KRRVH WKUHH SOD\V IRU DV ORZ DV RU 3XUFKDVH D JLIW FDUG

[ Ï3CARTHÏ3TREETÏ] [ 2EGINA Ï3ASKATCHEWANÏ3 0Ï ' Ï] [ Ï Ï]ÏÏ[ Ï Ï Ï Ï] [ WWW GLOBETHEATRELIVE COMÏ]

#ALLÏ Ï ÏORÏGOÏTOÏWWW GLOBETHEATRELIVE COM

is back, bigger and bolder than ever! Yarnton Decorating is carrying high-end wall coverings with names like Luigi Colani, Thibaut and Amy Butler.

Wall coverings have moved from the backsplash of your life to the centrepiece of your room. Big Bold colours, deep textures, and large-scale patterns are only a few reasons why it’s no longer your grandmother’s wallpaper.

Yarnton Decorating Ltd. 1430 McIntyre St. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.791.6210 www.yarntondecorating.com



 

   

  

 



   

FirstWord

By Thom Barker, Fine Lifestyles Regina Editor

In the floor of Casino Regina, there is a small window and plaque commemorating the old terrazzo floor installed during a major 1931 renovation of the building when it was the main station of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

My great-grandfather laid that terrazzo.

Although it was the late 1960s when I last lived in Regina, there are few places on Earth to which I feel more connected. It is the city of my birth, home of my beloved Riders and teeming with more aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins, removed cousins and inlaws than I can count, much less name.

I am sad to say the matriarch of this estimable brood, my maternal grandmother, died the very day, virtually the exact hour, I was leaving northern B.C. to move back to Saskatchewan in November 2007.

Aside from the myriad relatives, my family’s legacy is always underfoot…literally. There are the Casino; the sheaves of wheat in the lobby of Campion College; the geometric design in the basement of Holy Rosary Cathedral; the long hall at the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre; and the mosaic of Disney characters that currently graces a wall in the Allen Blair Cancer Centre, but was originally the floor of the children’s wing when Pasqua Hospital was Grey Nuns.

My very earliest memories are of the Queen

City: of a small blue-and-white bungalow on Cameron Crescent; of a squirrelly Siamese cat named Simba Ping; of my baby sister coming home from the hospital; of curb-side snow forts and first love (the girl next door); of playing “hut hut” with a small green-andwhite football with my Grandpa; of the smell of gnocchi and veal sauce wafting from the kitchen of the family homestead on Garnet Street; of teenagers scaling the great wall at Taylor Field to crash football games; and of piling, heavy-hearted, into a 1969 Volkswagen bus with my parents, sister and two brothers to make the long move to Ottawa.

I am thrilled to be the new editor of Fine Lifestyles Regina magazine. I was born to make magazines. I created my first when I was six years old. I called it Now Magazine and it had one subscriber: my mom. At seven, I started making superhero comics with two friends under the imprint U.C . (United Cartoonists) Comics. On my office wall, I have a framed copy of the first cheque I earned as a freelance writer.

It is a great time to be in Regina. A time when, I think it is fair to say, the city is coming of age. There is a palpable energy and optimism in the Queen City these days as we are poised to shake off the ignominious image of being a rest stop on the prairies between Winnipeg and Calgary and become a destination in our own right.

www.finelifestyles.ca has undergone a facelift!

Now Featuring: Weekly editor`s blog and poll Web-exclusive content Comprehensive events calendar Find us on Facebook (Fine Lifestyles Magazine) and Twitter (@skfinelifestyle)

With this, my inaugural issue, I am excited and looking forward to being part of that and, perhaps, putting my own small stamp on the legacy of my hometown.

I am always open to email and letters to the editor. You can also find me, and please do, on Facebook (Fine Lifestyles Magazine) and Twitter (@skfinelifestyle).

Happy New Year

FineLifestyles

REGINA

VO L U M E 2 I S S U E 4 Editor Thom Barker editor@finelifestyles.ca

Graphic Design and Layout Joni Gaudette joni@finelifestyles.ca

In-house Design Audrey Roskewich audrey@finelifestyles.ca Gary Blaney gary@finelifestyles.ca

Cover Photography Calvin Fehr www.calvinfehrphoto.com

Photography John Morell www.johnmorellphotography Roger Bayerlee Rheaphoto.ca Vienna Di Ruscio www.vmdphoto.com Jennifer Engel Melissa Chapman

Contributing Writers

A message from Victor Sawa...

I am very pleased to be featured in this issue of Fine Lifestyles during my favourite time of year, when the weather is cold and we can all keep warm with some great music!

During my 14 years in Regina, I have had the pleasure of getting to know countless wonderful people and I am glad that you will get to learn some more about me, and what I do as the conductor of a true gem in the Queen City – The Regina Symphony Orchestra.

We are currently in the middle of the RSO’s 102nd concert season so we have a busy few months of concerts coming up as we showcase all kinds of music and I am excited to share these with all of our fans in Regina!

Best wishes for the holiday season and in the New Year.

See you at the Symphony!

Maestro Victor Sawa

12

FineLifestyles REGINA

Tobie Hainstock Meagen Thomas Brian Bowman Linda Epstein Edward Willett Mark Claxton Ryan Holota Carol Todd Suzanne Paschall Jennifer Semesock Lisa Degelman Mackenzie Brooks Marie Powell Mendenhall

Advertising Consultants Brooke Watson Randy Glascock

brooke@finelifestyles.ca randyg@finelifestyles.ca

Office Manager Tracy Shaw tracy@finelifestyles.ca

Publishers Randy Liberet 540.3320 randy@finelifestyles.ca Wayne UnRuh 541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, Sk. S4V 2S4

Website www.finelifestyles.ca Fine Lifestyles Regina is published four times a year by Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of Fine Lifestyles Regina are copyrighted 2010 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles Regina, where copyright resides with the author. 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 are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles Regina or the companies they represent.

The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date 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.

What’sInside Up Close and Personal With Regina’s “Maestro of the People” Victor Sawa

15

The Truth about TATTOOS

47

Entertainment Calendar

94

Postcards from the Future

158

A Football Carol

162

Roots of a Renegade

15

Style

46

Arts, Entertainment and Dining

65

Health and Wellness

94

House and Home

134

Wheels

144

Business

152

Sport, Recreation and Leisure

164

Moose Jaw

169

Fort Qu’Appelle

41

Winter 2010 FineLifestyles REGINA

13

CAREERS AT RBC DOMINION SECURITIES

Make your next career move the best one Become an Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities If you are dedicated to building the best wealth management business you can, no firm can offer you more advantages over your competition than RBC Dominion Securities. � North America’s largest Wealth Management Services support team � Dedicated branch management � Fixed income & portfolio advisory specialists � Innovative investment and wealth management products & solutions � Trust & partnership with RBC – North America’s Safest Bank, top 10 worldwide* � Personalized practice management and business development support � An investment management process that has outperformed the benchmark S&P/TSX Index 23 of the last 26 years If you are looking to further your existing advisory business, or want to get started in this exciting industry, contact us today for a confidential conversation.

Please send your resume in strictest confidence to: In Regina: Jim Grundy, V.P. & Branch Manager E-mail: jim.grundy@rbc.com | Fax: 306-791-8250

In Moose Jaw: Kevin Ell, V.P. & Branch Manager E-mail: kevin.ell@rbc.com | Fax: 306-691-4280

RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 2010 11th Avenue, 4th Floor Regina SK S4P 0J3

RBC Dominion Securities 111 Fairford Street East, Suite 102 Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7X5

Thank you for your interest, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Professional Wealth Management Since 1901

**Global Finance (2010). We value diversity in the workplace, are committed to Employment Equity and will provide reasonable workplace accommodation to applicants with disabilities.

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 2010. All rights reserved.

Think you know by looking at people who may be sporting body art and who’s not?

Think again.

In this issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina, Meagen Thomas uncovers the

truth about tatts PHOTO BY GINA’S PORTRAITS

Pictured: Jean Stillwell International Opera Singer

Tattoos have been around for centuries.

Although their meaning and context has shifted over time, the tattoo’s most enduring use has been to define membership.

The Nazis used them as prisoner ID. Warriors have always been fond of tattoos; soldiers the world over proudly display the artwork or number associated with their units to prove their esprit de corps. The ink lexicon that gang members and criminals publish on their skin reads, to those in the know, like a demon’s resume, or Help Wanted ads from the seventh circle of Hell.

Visible tattoos said ‘we’re different’, ‘we’re tough’, ‘we’re scary’ – as they have for centuries – but not in the ‘Trust me – I’ll keep the village safe’ sort of way.

The brand itself got branded, but the same visibility that sank it might be saving it.

A-list celebrities are showing off their body art on the red carpet, and a growing number of TV and movie characters’ tattoos aren’t make-up either. And honestly, now that Hannah Montana star Miley Cyrus has one, are tattoos really counter-culture anymore?

Got tatts?

We all have secrets, but Dwight Atteberry is particularly proud of his.

“I admit to a feeling of empowerment that comes from sitting here in a shirt and tie and the guy across the table from you has no idea,” said Atteberry, general manager of Saskatoon Hyundai. “I guess it’s a bit like giving society the finger.”

His secret is out now, though. During the week preceding Halloween, the fun-loving businessman came to work in a different costume each day. In a sleeveless shirt and vest for his biker look, the staff got an eyeful of their boss’s body art: a shoulder-to-elbow half-sleeve tattoo on his left arm of a rattler embellished with a pair of crosses and a dove and rose on his right arm.

finelifestylesregina | style

One of the ladies in accounting freaked a bit and told Atteberry she’d never expect to see tattoos on someone like him.

A little surprised, Atteberry replied ‘Like who?!’

prowess in battle, holiness, leadership, membership. Today’s uptake is a reboot of that same sensibility minus the protocol and ritual.

person who likes high fashion and funky clothes,” Stilwell said. “Tattoos have become fun for me, like interesting clothing.

I’m not a different person in society.”

Having a tattoo these days is about as unique as having a credit card.

Acquired over many years, Stilwell’s tattoos mark passages, losses, achievements – one she even acquired for a role; why wear stage make-up when you can have the real thing?

Knowing someone with tattoos or who does tattoos is as normal as knowing someone with glasses in her sphere. As she names off tattooed friends, her list is a who’s who of Canada’s most celebrated performers.

‘Someone respectable. Like you.’

‘So I’m not respectable?’

“She didn’t have an answer to that one,” Atteberry said.

If Atteberry isn’t respectable, chances are your investment fund manager isn’t either.

Neither is your bank teller. Or your dentist.

In fact, just about everyone you know, work with or are related to might be one of these self-mutilating freaks.

Putting opinion aside, let’s talk facts: Tattoos were once the bona fides of respectability, the outward proof of status,

Mezzo soprano Jean Stilwell is hailed on three continents for her vivacious turns in the title role of Bizet’s Carmen and is cohost on Toronto’s 96.3 FM’s Good Day GTA: Classical Breakfast. She makes her home in Toronto, the bright centre of Canada’s vibrant arts community.

Ask her about any of her seven tattoos and you’re in for a treat. Story, memory and reflection merge into a fascinating narrative.

Ask her if she thinks tattoos aren’t for ‘respectable’ people and you’ll get a polite ‘come again?’ look.

“They aren’t a rebellious act and I don’t see them as ugly or angry; they’re all very beautiful and remind me of a lot important things in my life,” she said. “It’s so vogue too, but I live in a big city.”

What’s no biggie in TO can raise eyebrows in smaller, more conservative centres. The

“I don’t do them to be different, I’m just a

FineLifestyles REGINA

17

finelifestylesregina | style

trend that has everyone from secretaries to CEOs etching tributes to their pastimes, spouses and affiliations into their skin hasn’t quite overtaken the stereotypes and myth of who gets inked and why, but the gap is closing with each doctor, university professor and barista who join the ranks of the tattooed.

The bare truth Danny Berehula, former executive director and CEO of Regina’s Better Business Bureau, has tattoos on both forearms. A dress shirt might even cover them, if he wore shirts with long sleeves.

“It’s been mentioned to me that I should wear long sleeves – one time, before a TV appearance, and I wouldn’t – but I don’t wear long sleeves, even in winter. I’m proud of myself and if someone else doesn’t like what they see, it’s their problem not mine,” he said.

The corporate account executive for K Line admits that the dagger with two hearts and a ribbon on his right arm, a tribute to his daughters, and the emblem of the Masonic Motorcycle Association in Saskatchewan (of which he was the first president) on his left, raise the odd eyebrow. He also has every confidence his clients will get over it.

“I’m not worried about what people think. If I was, I wouldn’t have gotten them. They’re great, they’re art, and the body is nothing but a canvas,” Berehula said.

Gary Cox, his wife Debbie and his daughter Nicky operate 333 Half Evil Tattoo Shop in Saskatoon. Gary has been doing tattoos professionally for nine years and opened the family-run shop in 2006. The former airbrush artist and painter, who got his first tattoo 35 years ago, says he has witnessed how tattoos have evolved from counter-culture to mainstream must-haves.

“We get everyone, from 18 to whatever; I think one lady was 84. It’s opened up

18

FineLifestyles REGINA

TRUTH ABOUT TATTS completely, partly because of the younger generation’s uptake, but partly because it’s on TV so much,” said Cox. A Pew Research Study found that the most educated generation in history, the Millennials, are the number one market right now. Of the 38 per cent who have tattoos, half of those have more than one, and nearly one in five have six or more.

The prevalence of tattoo parlours in cities large and small has something to do with the rise in consumer interest. Most operate as a service-oriented business, with an emphasis on education, consultation, cleanliness and comfort. The majority of high-end shops, like Gary Cox’s, only do custom artwork.

Back when Cox got his first tattoo (a generic piece he soon regretted), tattoo artists weren’t always artists, unless paint-bynumbers is art. Cox trained for years before putting needle to skin.

“The industry trend is toward personalization so artistic ability is part of the discipline now,” said Cox. “I’ve gotten tattoos that I picked from the selection on the wall and I regretted it. I’d rather talk to people, come up with something they like and can be proud of and that means something to them on a personal level.”

Deeper meanings Tattoos are the scars we choose for ourselves. Typically, they tell a story.

Some of Berehula’s tattoos are easy to translate; Crab on the left calf = Cancer = Berehula’s zodiac sign. Atteberry’s most private tattoo, a wolf that appears to be emerging from his chest, is symbolic of another side of his nature. Stilwell’s Picasso dove embellished with splashes of colour reflects a loving nature, a desire to comfort others.

British nurse Frances Polack’s tattoo tells a story, too. She was 85 when she had ‘Do Not Resuscitate’ tattooed onto her chest in 2003, permanent insurance that her endof-life-care wishes would be carried out to the indelible letter.

Cox is also no stranger to the pragmatic applications of tattoos. “You can’t lose a Medic Alert tattoo while doing laps at the local pool and it still has the benefit of saying something about the wearer,” he said.

Practical or fanciful, these decorative scars serve a purpose. Sometimes it takes a scar to fix a scar – or to restore normal appearance after a trauma.

“There are doctors in town that do reconstruction surgery for women who’ve had mastectomies; some doctors colour in the nipple and some don’t,” said Cox. A client who came to him to get her nipples coloured in was so pleased with the realistic result she showed her surgeon. Cox has been taking referrals ever since.

“She said afterward that she felt complete,” said Cox. It’s not likely that many people will see Cox’s restorative work but they don’t need to.

Outward confidence from restored femininity is the only visual display that matters.

“Just because people don’t show them doesn’t mean they aren’t there,” said Gary Cox. “Some people with high-up jobs don’t want the world to know, but you’d be amazed who, and how many people, have them.”

Vision Center Direct on this page: Him- Tom Ford 111 Her- Tom Ford 171 MAKE-UP: Trena Olfert of trenalaine.com http://trenalaine.com HAIR BY: Lois of Satori Hair Studio PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Krista Fowler Drawn Daisy Photography

finelifestylesregina | style

Vision Center Direct on this page: Him- Chrome Hearts Fupa Her- Lafont Esther MAKE-UP: Trena Olfert of trenalaine.com http://trenalaine.com HAIR BY: Lois of Satori Hair Studio PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Krista Fowler Drawn Daisy Photography

finelifestylesregina | style

Vision Center Direct on this page: Him- Bellinger Tube-4 Her- Tom Ford 5146 MAKE-UP: Trena Olfert of trenalaine.com http://trenalaine.com HAIR BY: Lois of Satori Hair Studio PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Krista Fowler Drawn Daisy Photography

Vision Center Direct on this page: Him- Orgreen Parker Her- Orgreen Hexley MAKE-UP: Trena Olfert of trenalaine.com http://trenalaine.com HAIR BY: Lois of Satori Hair Studio PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Krista Fowler Drawn Daisy Photography

FineLifestyles REGINA

23

A special lady creates a special store Clara’s celebrates 25 fashionable years

BY G.H. LEWMER A fashion institution serving southern and central Saskatchewan for over 25 years, Clara’s Fashions’ success story was built upon the pillars of hard work; a conscientious and informed staff; and the taste, passion and dreams of one very special lady: Margaret Shiels.

According to Co-Owner (and Margaret’s husband) Carl Shiels, “Margaret has an uncanny ability to winnow through the thousands of styles and colours presented by dozens of ladies wear manufacturers to find the best possible garments for our customers.”

Margaret’s interest in design and fashion began at a young age under the influence of her mother and aunt who ran a ladies wear store in Wadena, Saskatchewan

24

FineLifestyles REGINA

during the 1950s. For seven years in the 1970s, Margaret lived in Belize helping supplement her new family’s income by sewing garments for friends and neighbours. It was there that she began to refine her understanding of fabric, fit and quality of production.

That experience now serves her well in her ongoing search for the best possible garments for display at Clara’s.

While having the right products to sell is essential, a close second is having sales staff that has both a passion for clothing and a keen desire to help every customer find the fit and look that works best for them.

“We quickly learned that our

most valuable advertising is the compliments our customers get when wearing outfits from Clara’s,” says Margaret.

“How the customer is feeling while wearing our clothing is what really matters most,” says Margaret. “We do not want any customer leaving the store with doubts about her choices.

That is why our sales staff provides guidance and encouragement without coming across as pushy. Clara’s has been extremely fortunate to have attracted and retained loyal, dedicated

staff members who share an interest in being the best at what we do. Dollette Laurans, Audrey Andersen and Maggie Pepper are currently the members of our Clara’s family.

“Like most families, each has their own personality, but they are all fiercely loyal to one another and to the Clara’s community”, Margaret adds. “We all work hard at making the store as inviting as possible. We try to make new customers feel welcome as soon as they come into the store, but we also love it when existing customers stop by for a quick visit to scout out the latest new arrivals. The relationships we have developed with many of our customers have lasted for years - in some cases as long as we have owned the store.”

For 25 years, Clara’s was located in Victoria Square. Unfortunately, the space at Victoria Square was always a bit cramped with limited ability to properly display the growing range of labels and styles. “When the opportunity arose to move to a bigger new store at Southland Mall, we were quick to recognize the potential advantages,” says Carl. “Without exception, all of our customers have agreed, applauding the warm and spacious new store with loads of display space. Ease of access to Southland Mall has also been a big factor, particularly for those who live in South Regina and anyone who is intimidated by the chaotic traffic on Victoria Avenue East.”

“We are delighted and more than a little humbled by the recognition that Clara’s has gained as a major destination for quality ladies wear in southern Saskatchewan,” concludes Margaret.

“Our new store in Southland will certainly enhance our ability to serve our customers in the future.”

You can visit Clara’s Fashions at the Southland Mall (2965 Gordon Road) in Regina. You can contact them at (306) 789-0692 or visit their website at www.clarasfashions.com

PHOTOS BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO

PHOTO BY CALVIN FEHR

BY TRICIA MARTIN So much more than a name, Regina’s latest beauty salon sensation—Saving Grace Hair Studio—has considerable meaning for owner, Amanda MacDougall and her dedicated clientele.

It was a complete shock to the system, when in 2005 Amanda’s mom Karen Grace MacDougall was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. “During the time my mom was battling cancer, she became passionately determined to return to nursing. Seeing what she was going through, I asked myself: what exactly is my passion?” It was then that Amanda decided to end her less than passionfilled banking career and left to pursue a more fulfilling life. Following her dreams and working hard to make them

26

FineLifestyles REGINA

a reality, Amanda got her wish when on January 5, 2010, she opened the doors to her very own hair salon— Saving Grace.

The salon is a fantastic little spot, nestled in the heart of the Cathedral neighborhood in Regina’s city centre. It is here that Amanda welcomes clients as friends, and looks out for them at every opportunity. It can be a challenge to be a chemical-free salon, a

challenge that Amanda chooses to take head on by using and carrying products that are low ammonia or ammoniafree. We also carry organic haircolor for those who have a preference. “I try

With humble charm, she acknowledges her salon may not be the most posh in the Queen city, but you will feel welcome as soon as you walk through the door.

The client is the star at Saving Grace and Amanda and her staff welcome you in like you’re family. “I want to welcome the next client with a “good morning Debbie” rather than “you must be the 10:30 appointment.”

The Saving Grace team has grown and transformed since the salon doors first opened. The talented team includes some pretty amazing people who will take care of all of your beauty needs— from cut, color and styling to make-up and waxing—they really listen to what the customer wants and have the skills and creativity to back it up.

Amber Herbach has been part of the Saving Grace stylist team the longest and is quickly gaining notoriety as the salons’ “pin up and classic retro-style expert.” Amber has styled for nine years, loves making people feel and look their best and has worked extensively within the local film industry, as well as, with the Globe Theatre. If you are looking for attention to detail and someone who can colour your hair in ways you simply could not imagine, book your appointment with Amber today.

Seriously, she has quite an artistic flare; if you dare, she could design a bright leopard print or a beautiful pattern of a feather in your hair—a truly amazing local talent.

With over 10 years experience in the beauty industry, Patti Lambert has much skill to bring to the dynamic team at Saving Grace. After attending the

prestigious Blanche MacDonald Centre for makeup artistry she has worked in the local film industry on shows such as Corner Gas, working in both makeup and wardrobe departments. Patti is a bright new talent, who brings with her a fresh perspective to styling and an eagerness to perfect her approach. If you are looking for someone to deliver that “wow factor,” look no further, you have met your match with Lambert, she is dedicated to excellence.

The latest addition to the SG Team is Kelsey Aitcheson. She is relatively new to the industry. As a result, she is full of creative energy and is open to trying new approaches to styling. She has also worked in the local community with atrisk-youth, doing hair and helping to be a positive influence in the lives of others.

Kelsey has a creative adaptability, which makes her able to think outside the box.

Her favorite styles are short and funky, but if you have anything edgy and daring in mind, I suggest you give Kelsey’s make-up or stylist skills a test drive. You won’t be disappointed in her skill or her creative and positive energy.

The great thing about working for Amanda is she actually works for you as well. She is always interested in keeping her staff educated on latest trends in contemporary style culture and is the kind of boss who invests in her staff. It is a great thing to have an owner who cares about the business as well as investing in her staff; it makes the people who work for you feel like they are a part of what’s making your business a success.

In addition to owning and managing her four-chair salon and maintaining a full clientele of her own, friendly and positively-energized MacDougall also educates for the L’anza product line.

L’anza Healing Haircare is a line that uses nanotechnology, contains healing actives and colour protectors in all its products. “I want to teach others in the hair industry not only how to become phenomenal stylists, but also about the healthier choices they can make with their clients.” A former nursing aide herself, she truly cares for people, so

PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

my best to stay away from parabens, as they have been linked to breast cancer,” adds MacDougall. “After experiencing that in my family, I want to promote healthier options to my friends and customers.” She also opts to stock her salon’s shelves with styling products that contain certified organic botanicals.

L’anza Healing Haircare, Brocato, Moroccan Oil and Onesta are just a few of the lines you will find there.

she aims for the healthiest approach when helping to make clients feel and look amazing.

Amanda and her talented staff share an immense passion for what they do, making people feel beautiful both inside and out. When you truly care about what you do, there is a rewarding sense of fulfillment in doing your job well when you see customers feeling beautiful and looking their best. The salon’s logo, designed by MacDougall’s sister, was displayed in the corner with a beautiful poem written by one of her clients about losing their mother. Although Amanda’s mother is no longer with us, her memory and her dedication to the pursuit of passion, lives on through her daughter Amanda’s own pursuit of success and happiness at Saving Grace Hair Studio.

We look forward to your visit and would like to offer a 15 per cent discount when you mention that you have read this article.

Saving Grace Hair Studio 1950 Angus St, Regina, SK Phone: 306-205-4566 www.savinggracesalon.ca

FineLifestyles REGINA

27

finelifestylesregina | style

BY CAROL TODD The ancient Greeks had it all wrong— Pandora opened a box of sparkling heavenly delights, not evils, into the world.

Today, Pandora means gorgeous jewelry, each piece individually created by its owner. Perhaps best known for its modern take on the classic charm bracelet, Pandora Jewelry was founded in Denmark in 1982 and now sells its customizable charm bracelets, rings, earrings and necklaces in more than 50 countries.

But, Pandora’s charms aren’t the only ones on display at WP Inside, the upscale accessories boutique Barry Wick and Peter Charles opened in 2002. Now with two locations in Regina, WP Inside has everything a person could want to make their bling sing with individuality.

In addition to the Pandora line, the stores also feature unique jewelry, watches and handbags by companies like ESPE, Axcent of Scandinavia, Myka and JOJO Beads, hand-made in Montmarte, Saskatchewan. For those looking for

28

FineLifestyles REGINA

home and garden accents, WP Inside also carry fountains and statuary by CastArt Studios, air purification systems

by Lampe Berger, unique wall art by WT Designs, and much more.

Wick said the shops were a natural extension to the seasonal WP Garden Centres the two have operated since

1992. When space became available in the mall where one of the garden centres was located, the two jumped at the chance to expand their business to meet their clients’ needs. The garden centres already carried some giftware and Wick said their customers were asking for more. “We wanted to bring in some different and unique items that

PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

perhaps people hadn’t seen before,” he said.

WP Inside found that unique quality in Pandora, which is now the third largest jewelry company in the world, behind only Tiffany and Cartier. While both stores carry the line, Pandora products are currently appearing centre stage at the WP Inside Rae Street store. Like designer mini-boutiques in high-end department stores, the Pandora Shopin-Shop is a separate space showcasing the company’s entire glittering product line.

Pandora bracelets feature a patented threading system that allows charms to be placed, added and rearranged. There are more than 800 handcrafted charms available, in sterling silver, 14K gold and Murano glass. Some include precious or semi-precious stones. In 2008, Pandora introduced LovePods, jewelry

made of 18K gold and gemstones such as diamonds, amethyst, peridot, citrine, spinel and topaz. Liquid Silver is another line offered by Pandora, and like LovePods, is available at the Rae Street location.

WP Inside offers much more than the Pandora products to accessorize your wardrobe. The stores also have areas dedicated to all kinds of accessories and other items to grace your yard and boost your home décor. The south store, at #5 - 4621 Rae Street features a separate Garden Room to showcase the outdoor art, while the east location, at 254 University Park Drive, carries the larger indoor items.

Whatever you’re looking for, Wick said WP Inside offers a unique shopping experience. “It’s an opportunity to shop in a relaxed atmosphere. We want people to feel comfortable and relax and

enjoy themselves. Our staff is always available to answer questions or make suggestions.”

He adds that new products are added all the time, so each and every visit is a new experience. “We enjoy introducing new items to our clients—we pride ourselves on that. So far, we’ve been able to do that successfully,” Wick said.

By focusing on their commitment to customer service, Wick and Charles are confident that the future will continue to be filled with a Pandora’s box chock full of bright, shining success stories.

WP Inside East Regina Location 254 University Park Drive 306.586.2929 South Regina Location #5 - 4621 Rae Street 306.584.1565

FineLifestyles REGINA

29

Take baby steps toward successful New Year’s resolutions

BY LISA DEGELMAN New Year’s is the only holiday on which we celebrate the passing of time. Maybe that’s why we become introspective, reflect, examine and set self-betterment goals. And so it has been since 153 BC when the Romans started the tradition of seeking atonement from their enemies by exchanging gifts at the beginning of a new year. For this, they had the inspiration of the mythical king Janus—for whom January is named. Janus was typically depicted with two faces, one that could look back on the past and the other forward to a better future.

Choose one to start with or improve. Walk, join a boot camp or yoga class; cut down on sugar or alcohol intake; or simply take smaller meal portions more times a day.

Building, maintaining and improving relationships is also multi-faceted. Our lives have become so busy, technology-driven, materialistic and goal-oriented. Make a point of going on a date with your spouse or spending time with a friend or family member but leave the Blackberry, DSi Excel and iPod Touch in the car. Smile at, hug or wave to each person you recognize all week. Meet a new parent or grandparent on your son’s hockey team or in your children’s classroom.

People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing. Dale Carnegie Advertisers tend to push us toward New Year’s resolutions of the material variety, which is why there are so many stationary bicycles and rowing machines collecting dust in basements. But setting true selfbetterment goals can and must be fun.

If the goals are not personal and attainable they will be dismissed, set aside for another time or forgotten altogether.

Following are the five top themes for modern resolutions with some tips on how to make them work.

I notice well that one stray step from the habitual path leads irresistibly into a new direction. Franz Grillparzer Living more healthily encompasses a wide array of resolutions: losing weight, exercising three times per week, eating well, consuming less alcohol, smoking less or not at all, having annual physical, eye and dental check-ups. Doing all of these would provide for an excellent bill of health, but, for many, they are great obstacles to face.

Getting organized also covers a lot of ground, but a good start is doing a little housecleaning, which will not only help de-clutter your home, but your emotions and overall life. It can also decrease stress and improve your day-to-day productivity. Getting rid of material items you don’t use or need has a way of increasing closet or shelving space but also lifting weight off your shoulders. If you struggle with the decision of throwing something in the garbage, giving it away or saving it, try reminding yourself that life’s important things aren’t always things.

Being more environmentally friendly is a responsibility that society as a whole is attempting to adopt. Related resolutions include: recycling paper, cardboard, glass or cans; carpooling; purchasing organic and/or eco-friendly cleaning products; and investing in high efficiency appliances, light bulbs or vehicles. We owe it to ourselves, our children and our children’s children to sustain the most healthy and viable environments.

Improving wealth/finances may take the form of paying off or lowering your debt, taking advantage of interest rates by purchasing a home, increasing savings, purchasing RRSP/RESP’s, investing in rental property or a piece of land. Improving finances also has a way of improving self-esteem, self-worth and freedom, as well as, reducing stress.

Start by doing what’s necessary; then what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. Saint Francis

FineLifestyles REGINA

33

Expert Advice: Style

Hair Care Daniel A. McDonald- Chief Creative Stylist & Owner The D.A.M. Hair Company Ltd. 2719 Quance Street East Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.525.2700 thedamhaircompany@sasktel.net

Ask the D.A.M. question!

Dear D.A.M.; Now that winter is here i’m finding my hair to be dry and finding a lot of “ split ends” with “ no shine”. What should I do ?

- Dry and Dull Dear Dry and Dull; Split ends do not mend, they continue to split up the hair shaft and break off along the way. However, there are a couple things you can do to help or stop the damage; 1. To prevent them - Use a daily hair conditioner like Redken’s Extreme or All Soft, will keep your hair in a healthy, conditioned state and will help prevent damage.

2. Stop the damage - Have your stylist cut just the ends of your hair off regularly to remove the damaged ends and stop the split from growing, while at the same time using the prevention step to keep the undamaged hair healthy.

Over the winter months it’s even more important to keep your hair healthy and shiny. To do so, you need to make sure that your product cupboard has had its “winter tune up”. Here are some items that you should have; A) Good quality shampoo: This is the most important part of your hair-health system. Buying professional products ensures quality and ensures that the

right product is selected for your type of hair. Redken products like Extreme or All Soft are great examples of “universal” quality shampoos. Always keep in mind that store bought shampoos contain detergents that are poor quality and will damage your hair quickly!. Finally remember this, avoid washing your hair daily if you can. Regular washing, rinsing and drying will age your hair and dry your scalp. All increasing your risk of damaging your hair.

B) A quality daily conditioner: This will condition the cuticle of your hair and in turn will prevent damage. Products like Redken’s Smooth Down will create a smooth cuticle and creates shine and easier comb-ability.

C) A weekly hair treatment: Finally a quality treatment program is recommended for those of you whose hair is either; long, chemically treated, or if you are trying to grow it out. if your hair is dry because it is long or naturally curly, we recommend a moisturizing treatment like Redken’s Extreme Rescue Force. If you have chemical services done, you will need the proper balance of moisture and protein which is available in product that we sell by Redken called Color Extend

carry a large inventory of items for every kind of hair in each of our seasons.

Our Creative Team Stylists, here at the D.A.M. Hair Company, will be able to suggest and guide you on the right Redken products to use, to keep your hair in top notch condition. Stop by or give us a call.

That is my D.A.M. advice!!!

Daniel A.McDonald Chief Creative Stylist & Owner The D.A.M. Hair Company Ltd., 2719 Quance Street East (behind Applebee’s) Regina, Sk. 306.525.2700 thedamhaircompany@sasktel.net

Remember, in choosing products for your hair, “you get what you pay for.” While cheaper store bought brands may be on your mind, you might be causing your hair damage. Avoid the regret. Don’t be afraid to ask your stylist on the application of the many products available. Brands like Redken stand behind their products and

FineLifestyles REGINA

35

Curvaceous Boutique: New Year, New You! BY: MACKENZIE BROOKS PHOTOS BY: VIENNA DI RUSCIO Pretty. Urban. Edgy. Owner Andrea Caratt of Curvaceous Boutique, is outfitting plus-sized women in fashions fit for the modern, fashion-conscious consumer, and is bringing us into the New Year with our best fashion foot forward.

A New Year and a new attitude is all Andrea needs to transform her clients into the best version of themselves for holiday parties and every day of the coming year.

When Andrea puts her mind to work on your fashion challenges, she brings together years of passion, personal style and a background in esthetics to create your ideal look. Even better, Andrea can help you create the look clients thought they couldn’t create for themselves.

“Even if you come to Curvaceous Boutique to look for something you’re unsure of, I can help you pull together items that will bring your wardrobe to a heightened level,” said Andrea. “If you tell me ‘I don’t always dress well, but want to improve my look,’ just tell me what you want your look to achieve and I can build you a wardrobe that is cohesive and versatile enough to build outfits from separates.

You are always the focus at Curvaceous Boutique.”

With the latest fashions in stock, Curvaceous Boutique is certain to turn heads.

“I’m always researching the latest trends and am seeing a lot of exciting pieces come to the boutique,” said Andrea.

“Even if you don’t see the particular piece you want, I can source it for you.” Andrea revealed that embellished tops and mixed earth tones with rich jewel tones are heating up our cool winter season, as are contrasting metal accessories for a rocker chic feel. “As plus-sized women,

we shouldn’t succumb to the myth that black is the limit for our wardrobe options simply because it is slimming and classic,” mused Andrea. “We need to look beyond the limitations of basic black and abandon the idea that just because something is classic, we have to stay within those boundaries. For the New Year, I suggest charcoal which can be layered with your existing wardrobe staples to refresh outfits and create depth in new ways that black cannot achieve.”

With lines like Svoboda, Igigi and Kiyonna already gracing the shelves, new lines like Jag Jeans, Chinoo, Tom’s Shoes and Braza will be in good company in the New Year for the spring fashion season.

“There are so many avenues to create the style you want, and the New Year will bring in some exciting new lines for cus-

tomers who are already familiar with the range of available choices. New items are arriving every week.” said Andrea.

For fashion-conscious Andrea, her best discoveries this season have been infinity scarves (for their adaptability and their fluid transformation from casual to formal) as well as the knowledge that a solid foundational garment is the base of every outfit. “Foundation garments are the most important element of every outfit you put on. They don’t just give you a base to build on, they give you confidence,” said Andrea. Curvaceous Boutique will soon be able to outfit you in Braza (as seen on the Torrid website) to build bra bling into outfits requiring extra shine for the holiday party season.

tique for the latest in formal holiday party wear, casuals, cruise wear separates and solid advice for the fashion New Year. Let 2011 be the year you show the world the fashion-conscious woman you can be.

With Andrea and Curvaceous Boutique, it will be stylish, easy and fun. Always.

Curvaceous Boutique 4049 Albert Street (306) 522-8789 Facebook fan page: “Curvaceous Boutique” e-mail: curvaceous@sasktel.net

Drop in on Andrea at Curvaceous Bou-

FineLifestyles REGINA

37

finelifestylesregina | style

Bellezza Esthetics Studio: Beauty for You = Beautiful You!

BY MACKENZIE BROOKS

Bellezza:

the Italian word for beauty; in a word, the perfect description of this studio’s mission, space, services and you.

Bellezza Esthetics Studio is a new brand of esthetics studio. In the first year of business, Bellezza Esthetics Studio and proud owner, Christina Duncan, are showing women of all ages the true meaning of beauty and teaching us to put our best faces forward. For Christina, it was about opening up new possibilities for herself and her clients and about what we all seek in our esthetics regime: personal service in a comfortable environment. Bellezza Esthetics Studio is all of these things.

Located at 1607 Victoria Avenue, Bellezza Esthetics Studio is a muchwelcomed addition to the robust businesses that already grace the block east of Broad Street. Located between Il Biondo and The Italian Star

38

FineLifestyles REGINA

Deli, Bellezza builds community with its neighbours and brings beauty (quite literally) to the block. “When I decided to go out on my own, I knew that this location was perfect,” said Christina.

“It had all the charm required to build a quaint and personal studio. I haven’t looked back.”

Christina brings with her 14 years of experience and is so well known and respected in her field that clients have followed her to the new Bellezza Esthetics Studio like loyal soldiers of the Roman guard. Yes – her products and services are that exceptional (to say nothing of Christina’s professional

PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

advice and fun personality). “The best part of owning my own business, especially a business as personal as esthetics, is being able to focus on what is most important for me and my clients: customer satisfaction, simplified services and a studio space that is friendly and fun. Bellezza is a place where I can really focus on your needs,” mused Christina. “It’s been very gratifying to make it my own and to grow with it in the New Year. I have hopes to bring another esthetician to Bellezza – that perfect someone who will complete our ability to serve our clients.”

Bellezza Esthetics Studio focuses on a refined menu of skin care, nail treatments, waxing and tinting. “I want everything to be simplified,” said Christina. “The product lines complement the treatments and are of extremely high quality.” Bellezza’s treatments are all executed with Dermalogica brand products.

Enthusiasts of the Dermalogica brand know that Dermalogica is a premier line of blending natural ingredients for lasting results without the use of alcohol, formaldehyde and artificial

colours or fragrances. Bellezza carries the Dermalogica Age Smart, Ultra Calming and Clean Start lines for adult, sensitive and teenaged skin; at Bellezza, every woman is beautiful.

full coverage while allowing your skin to breathe. China Glaze polishes are chip-resistant and with a stunning variety of colours, everyone can find their favourite.

Complementing the Dermalogica line are the Body Systems, Young Blood Mineral Cosmetics and China Glaze polishes to accentuate your Bellezza experience. Body Systems Body Care will smooth and exfoliate in the most decadent way (ask Christina about the indulgent Diamond Sparkle spa line!) while Young Blood cosmetics builds a beautiful canvas of your fresh skin with makeup that is created of pure minerals that will not clog pores and is free of fillers like perfumes, talc and dyes. These pigment shades for eyes, cheeks and lips will give you

Give the gift of beauty in this beautiful studio space this holiday season. Gift certificates for services and products are available. Resolve to make Christina’s professional advice and expertise at Bellezza Esthetics Studio your own in 2011.

Bellezza Esthetics Studio 1607 Victoria Avenue Regina, Sk. Phone: (306)522-2188 Facebook page: “Bellezza Esthetics Studio”

FineLifestyles REGINA

39

Unique custom sewing and alterations

t ZFBST TFXJOH FYQFSJFODF ZFBST JO CVTJOFTT t 8FEEJOH BOE GPSNBM XFBS BMUFSBUJPOT t .FOT XPNFOT BOE ZPVUI BMUFSBUJPOT t %SBQFSJFT DVSUBJOT BOE QBOFMT t #Z BQQPJOUNFOU POMZ Gloria Gregorash 3614 Selinger Cres. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.789.0995 Email: fashion.by.gloria@sasktel.net

TRUSTED. COMMITTED. CLIENT FOCUSED. • REAL ESTATE LAW • • • •

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL PURCHASES, SALES, MORTGAGES REFINANCING LEASES/RENT TO OWN

• IMMIGRATION LAW • • • • •

SASKATCHEWAN IMMIGRANT NOMINEE PROGRAM (SINP) BUSINESS/SKILLED WORKER/FAMILY CLASS ENTREPRENEUR AND INVESTOR APPLICATIONS VISITOR/WORK/STUDY PERMITS REFUGEE HEARINGS/APPEALS

SIROIS LAW FIRM, P.C.

MATT M. SIROIS, B.A. (HONS.), L.L.B. 2424 COLLEGE AVENUE, 3RD FLOOR REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN S4P 1C8 PHONE: 306.585.6288 FAX: 306.585.6362 SIROISLAW@SASKTEL.NET

CALL: (306) 585.6288

SIROISLAW@SASKTEL.NET

He is perhaps Regina’s most recognizable cultural icon. His classical music credentials are rock solid, but he eschews the stuffiness often associated with the genre. In this issue of Fine Lifestyles, MARK CLAXTON gets UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL with Regina’s

“MAESTRO OF THE PEOPLE”

Victor Sawa

VICTOR SAWA

It’s 2 p.m. and the Maestro needs his coffee.

Victor Sawa, music director of the Regina Symphony Orchestra, has goodnaturedly kibbitzed and grinned his way through the photo shoot at the Conexus Arts Centre. He has graciously acquiesced to every pose and to every exploding flash in his eyes. But now it’s two o’clock, and Sawa’s associates and friends know what that means. It’s time for the ritual: the non-negotiable, nearsacred, daily rite that lends order to this gifted musician’s days and calm to his thoughts.

Sawa has a date with a quadruple espresso.

“Are you ready to go?” Sawa asks me. I understand clearly this isn’t a question.

By the time I’m buckled in to the car that will follow Sawa to the coffee house, his sporty Honda Pilot is already out of the parking lot. This is a Maestro on a mission. * * * * *

Since his youth in Montreal, Sawa has been no stranger to missions, some of the near-impossible variety. He didn’t pick up a musical instrument until his first year in high school, long after most serious music students had already conquered the fundamentals.

“We lived in an apartment, so brass instruments were out, percussion instruments were out, and the saxophone was out,” he recalls. “That left the wind instruments. The oboe and bassoon looked pretty weird, and I couldn’t make a sound come out of the flute, so that left the clarinet.”

As part of his high school’s band program, Sawa and his bandmates attended a concert by the Montreal Symphony Orchestra. As the musicians launched into “The Sorceror’s Apprentice,” by Paul Dukas, at least one 14-year-old chess player and science enthusiast was utterly overwhelmed by what he heard and felt.

“It was the best thing I’d ever heard in my life,” Sawa says. “It was so luxurious,

those sounds; I’d never thought I could be so attracted to sounds.”

Sawa has not looked back since. He applied himself with extraordinary discipline to his clarinet, enrolling in a local music conservatory where he practiced up to four hours a day after school.

“Then I’d go home, do homework, and get up the next morning,” he says. “That was a typical day.

“I knew nothing about music and I had a lot of catching up to do,” Sawa says.

“People in that school were young and talented.”

The young Sawa was driven by a single purpose: He would be a professional musician and spend his life immersed in this art that had captivated him from their first meeting.

His parents were not particularly excited by his plans.

“My father was a chef and my mother was a stay-at-home housewife,” Sawa

VICTOR SAWA

says. “We weren’t rich, so they needed a son who could actually get a job. They were appalled.”

That didn’t deter the maestro-to-be.

“I was one of those kids who questioned everything,” he recalls. “Don’t just tell me to do something, tell me why I have to do it. If I agree with you, I’ll do it. If I don’t ... “ Sawa’s proficiency in chess and science meant he well understood the concept of probability; he simply chose not to apply it when it came to his chances of succeeding as a professional musician.

“I wasn’t going to accept that I wouldn’t make it,” Sawa says. “I never thought of that possibility. And that’s the only way to do it, because the odds are astronomical.

“I remember reading a book in the 10th grade that told me there are 10,000 clarinet players in the United States, and 100 make it into an orchestra,” he continues. “I put the book down. I didn’t

need to read that.”

Today, of course, Victor Sawa has done more than beat the odds. He’s pretty much pummeled them into utter submission. After graduating with distinction from McGill University, he was accepted to Boston’s New England Conservatory of Music, where he completed his Masters in Music Performance.

While studying in Boston, Sawa played clarinet with the New England Ragtime Ensemble, a band that was brought together to bring life to newly discovered orchestrations by early jazz icon Scott Joplin. Their 1973 album The Art of the Rag was a classical music sensation and earned a Grammy for Best Chamber Music Recording of the Year. Sawa and his band mates were invited to perform at the White House.

“Ford was the president at the time,” Sawa recalls. “We played on the stage where Nixon had recently resigned. I asked somebody, ‘So, how is it around here now?’ They said, ‘Oh, it’s a lot better; a lot less tense.’”

Sawa’s work with the New England Ragtime Ensemble was an enormous advance in his career as a clarinetist. Yet his ambitions did not end with playing in an orchestra; from the first day of his love affair with classical music, he’d had his eye on the baton.

“I wanted to be the dude with the stick,” Sawa says. “It just looked so cool. That’s what I wanted to do.”

His acceptance to the Pierre Monteux School for Advanced Conductors, located in Maine, brought him nearer to his goal, not to mention a little nearer to his home and native land.

While training in Maine, Sawa experienced what he now describes as a metaphysical encounter with his art form. He was conducting a group of musicians when his instructor brusquely stopped him in mid-performance, demanded that he put down his baton, and then insisted that Sawa resume his conducting—without moving a muscle.

Startled and confused, Sawa stilled himARCHIVE- RSO

ARCHIVE- RSO

self, established eye contact with his musicians, and then watched in amazement as they began to play in unison.

“But that’s just the bare bones,” Sawa says. “The rest is inspiration.”

“I started slowing them down, speeding them up, getting them to play louder and softer,” Sawa says. “And I’m not even moving. I’m just looking at them.”

On this dank and blustery November day, Sawa is getting at least some inspiration from the “quad” that has not left his grasp since we gathered at the coffee shop. As he speaks, he sits with his back straight, the cup in his right hand, his elbow crooked at a perfect right angle between sips. We’ve been joined at our table by an acquaintance of the Maestro’s, another regular at this particular establishment.

On that day, Sawa says, he caught a glimpse of the transcendent artistry that is behind the work of classical music’s greatest conductors—those who do much more than function as a traffic cop for the musicians.

“The official thing is to be true to the music,” he says. “For the most part, it’s written down, like highway signs. ‘Slow down,’ ‘speed up,’ ‘stay with it.’

44

FineLifestyles REGINA

*

*

*

*

*

With his upright posture, royal purple shirt, and coffee grasped like a sceptre, Sawa could be holding court. He is Regina’s “Maestro of the people,” after all, and more than a few associates and

RSO fans know where to find him at 2 p.m. on any given day. Sawa says some of the orchestra’s best shows have been conceptualized during these informal conversations. He also welcomes any opportunity to win a new convert.

“I ask people, ‘What do you want to hear?’” he says. “They say, ‘I’ve never heard Beethoven,’ I say, ‘I’ll put it on for you.’

“One person at a time adds up to a lot of people.”

In his 14 seasons with the RSO, Sawa has worked hard to tear down the formality and elitism he believes has decimated classical music’s appeal to contemporary audiences. He has little patience for the traditional protocols that have

developed at classical performances.

PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

“People still think, ‘You can clap here, but you can’t clap there,’” he says. “You can clap anywhere you want, what’s the problem? In jazz, when you clap at the end of a good solo, the jazz people don’t stop and say, ‘Hey, don’t do that.’”

For Sawa, music is just one of many enthusiasms. He can speak passionately and at length about World Cup soccer, literature (“’Letters From an Unknown Woman’ is one of the great, great short stories of all time”), Nintendo’s Mario Brothers games, and red wine (“I take the French view of wine. It’s for living; it’s not just for dinner”). While the RSO website lists The Shawshank Redemption as his favourite movie, his current number one is the raunchy sex comedy Superbad.

For a man who is currently directing the music for three orchestras—in Regina, Saskatoon and Sudbury, Ontario—a few lower-brow diversions are probably a healthy thing. Three orchestras mean not only three times the music to be studied and rehearsed, but three times the administrative duties.

Sawa has given up his clarinet; the demands on his time have squeezed out the ability to practice.

“There’s always some crisis,” he says. “’Our violinist is sick,’ or ‘We can’t afford to do that concert.’”

When he picks up the baton, however, with the orchestra in front of him and a hall of music lovers behind him, Sawa couldn’t be happier.

“That’s the high,” he says. “There’s nothing better. I always think, ‘They pay me to do this?’”

FineLifestyles REGINA

45

REGINA

SMTWTFS/7:00PM

DECEMBER

28

29

30

1

2

3

4

HOME

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

AWAY

MARCH

FEBRUARY

JANUARY

1 2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31 1

2

3

4

5

6PM

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

WHAT DO YOU DO TO BRING YOUR TEAM TOGETHER? Unite your team today with a night out at a Regina Pats hockey game. More People = More Fun! WANT TO RAISE $1200 OR MORE? Tired of selling chocoalte almonds or organizing bottle drives? Try something NEW! REGINA PATS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM Sell Regina Pats tickets + A fun filled night out = Team Profit / Enjoyment

FOR GROUP TICKETS OR FUNDRAISING CONTACT THE REGINA PATS OFFICE TODAY AT 306.522.PATS (5604).

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! winter 2010

Compiled by Marie Powell Mendenhall

Kramer Imas Theatre: Now playing: Hubble 3D Dinosaurs Alive! 3D Avatar: Special Edition - 3D (ends Jan. 9) The Human Body (ends Jan. 9) Exhibit Floor Visiting exhibit Our Body: The Universe Within (till Jan. 9) (Next exhibit TBA)

Every Saturday and Sunday: Family-friendly 2 p.m. activities

[Ï Ï\Ï Ï]

Upcoming events: Dec. 31- Noon Year’s Eve Feb. 14- Festival of Food

Shumiatcher Sandbox Series Templeton Studio Cabaret Jan. 20-27 Globe Young Company Directed by 2B Theatre

Mainstage Nov. 24-Dec. 26 HONK! A Musical Tale of the Ugly Duckling Music by George Stiles Book and Lyrics by Anthony Drewe Directed by Jillian Keiley Feb. 23-March 13 Shakespeare’s Will Jan. 26-Feb 13 By Vern Thiessen Having Hope At Home Starring Seana Mckenna

By David S. Craig Directed by Miles Potter Directed by Andrew North

March 3-12 Honey on Wallpaper Created and Performed by Heather Cameron & Shaunna Dunn

(Golden Apple Theatre – next show June 1-12) At New Dance Horizons Dec. 14-16 Itcush Method: Self-Maintenance Program Intensive Somatic Workshop with Amelia Itcush, 6:00-9:00 pm

Dec. 9-10 A Queensbury Christmas Party ABBA cadabra - A Tribute to Abba The Piano Man - Tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel Jan. 13, 2011 Jeff Dunham, Identity Crisis Tour (No other events listed at this time.)

At the Regina Symphony Orchestra Mosaic Masterworks Conexus Arts Centre

Jan. 22 Blazin’ Trumpets Guest Artist: Andrew McCandless, trumpet Conductor: Victor Sawa Feb. 12 Musique of Love Guest Artists: The Bergmann Duo, piano Conductor: Victor Sawa March 12 Internet Connection Guest Artists: Martin Leung, piano South Saskatchewan Youth Orchestra Conductor: Victor Sawa

Regina Pats Home Games Fri Dec 03 ........................... Moose Jaw Sat Dec 04 ......................... Swift Current Tue Dec 07 ........................ Everett Fri Dec 17 ........................... Prince Albert Tue Dec 28 ........................ Swift Current Sat Jan 01 .......................... Prince Albert Sun Jan 02 ......................... Calgary Wed Jan 12 ........................ Saskatoon Fri Jan 14 ............................. Edmonton Sat Jan 15 ........................... Red Deer Sat Jan 22 .......................... Lethbridge Tue Jan 25 ......................... Medicine Hat Sat Jan 29 .......................... Moose Jaw Sat Feb 05 ......................... Prince Albert Fri Feb 11 ............................ Kootenay Sat Feb 12 .......................... Medicine Hat Wed Feb 16 ....................... Prince Albert Fri Feb 18 ............................ Calgary Sat Mar 05 ........................ Brandon Fri Mar 11 ........................... Moose Jaw Fri Mar 18 .......................... Saskatoon

RSO Kids Shumiatcher Pops Conexus Arts Centre Jan 8 Jason Plumb & The Willing Conductor: Victor Sawa Feb 19 The Oscars Conductor: Victor Sawa

48

FineLifestyles REGINA

Dec. 4 Polar Express Feb. 13 Story Tellers

RSO Special Events Dec. 15 Handel’s Messiah Knox Metropolitian United Church Jan. 19 The Nylon’s - Putting It Together Guest Artist: The Nylons Guest Conductor: Charles Cozens Conexus Arts Centre

Government House Dec. 18-19 Hindemith & Mozart Jan. 15-16 Bohemian Festival March 19-20 Piano and Friends

Other events at Government House

Dec. 4 Victorian Tea Jan. 1 Lt-Governor’s New Year’s Day Levee

finelifestylesregina | arts, entertainment and dining

Dec. 7th- Stuart McLean Dec. 9th- Rita MacNeil with Frank Mills Dec. 15-16 -The Wizard of Oz Jan. 27- Toopy & Binoo Feb. 2- Finger Eleven Feb. 2-4- DIWC presents A Midsummer’s Night Dream March 5- The King’s Singers March 15-16- DIWC presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

other events

Dec 2 Singing for Supper Featuring Tom Jackson Dec 3 “A Maritime Christmas” with The Rankin Sisters Dec 4 The Sparkle Tour With Andrea Menard Dec 9 The Irish Rovers - An Irish Christmas Dec 10 Bee Gees “Night Fever” And ABBAmania Dec 15 George Canyon – Christmas From The Heart Dec 16 Bob Saget

Dec 17-20 A Rockin’ Elvis Christmas With Rory Allen Dec 27 Al Almassy Trio - Monthly Old Time Dance Party Dec 31 Glass Tiger With Guest Sugar Pie Jan 7 Wayne Lee Jan 8 Pam Tillis & Lorrie Morgan Jan 14-15 Brent Butt With Guest Sean Lecomber Jan 21 The Ventures Jan 31 The Fugitives - Monthly Old Time Dance Party

March 4-5 Talking Fresh 9: Saskatchewan Poetry Summit Luther College Featuring Karen Solie, Daniel Scott Tysdal, Michael Trussler, Brenda Schmidt.

Vertigo Reading Series

Jan 11 Kelley Jo Burke, Sharon Plumb, Rolli, Bernadette Wagner March 27 Steven Ross Smith (Other dates TBA) FineLifestyles REGINA

49

The ‘suite’ life: Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites creates home away from home

BY MEAGAN THOMAS Every hotel promises unparalleled service, but Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites actually delivers on that promise.

“I’ve been living in hotels for 30 years,” said Mike Duncan, an oil and gas industry contractor. “I keep coming back because they take care of me and my colleagues, and because I stay there so often they know me and accommodate my every need.”

Many travelling executives just like Mike keep coming back to the Chateau because it offers service, accommodation and amenities that fit their needs and is located right on

50

FineLifestyles REGINA

Victoria Avenue, is easily accessible and has free parking.

The newly designed suites for example: offer both comfort and executive functionality, like reliable high-speed wireless Internet access, a separate (and completely sumptuous) bedroom and space enough in the living room/ office to host a three to four person meeting.

Two newly renovated conference rooms are available with full catering services for lunch, coffee breaks and dinner available. A full line of audio and visual equipment to suit any type of presentation is available upon request.

Standard rooms offer nearly all the comforts of home. Efficiency rooms come equipped with a cook-top, cookware, microwave and refrigerator, perfect for long term stays. However if you don’t feel like cooking, Zahir’s Lounge is located on the main level where you can enjoy a fine meal and a cocktail. Also connected to the hotel is a family restaurant. You don’t even need to go outdoors to get there.

“I stay at Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites on a regular basis,” commented Jim Mele, whose job brought him to Regina for an extended period of time. “I love the convenience of staying here. I can cook meals in my room if I choose, or go downstairs to Zahir’s Lounge. The staff treats me like one of the family. I feel really at home here!”

Setting a new service standard The former Howard Johnson Inn became the Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites in February 2010. When the new

management checked in, the standard good-is-good-enough thinking checked out.

“Because we’re an independent hotelier, we’re not bound to follow a standard of service that is, frankly, below the standard our customers expect to have,“ said Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites general manager, Bev Herperger.

“We have the freedom to tailor service to suit each customer’s needs, and the latitude to be flexible – even to offer high-volume clients cost savings and tiered pricing based on use.”

Certainly no other mid-range hotel offers business and holiday travellers as much for their money as Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites. Every single room also comes equipped with a 42inch flat screen television and remote control.

Living the ‘suite’ life As part of the hotel’s redesign, dozens of single rooms were combined to create

the magnificent and spacious suites that give the hotel its distinguished name.

The spacious living space is separated from the bedroom with graceful and elegant French doors. Behind those French doors is a sleeping area of incomparable luxury. Each room is dominated by a top-quality King-size flatbed with a pillow top mattress, assurance of a blissful night’s sleep.

Four of the suites come equipped with a little extra, a two-person hot-tub in the living room.

Truly, these are rooms fit for a dignitary – and as it happens the Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites has been chosen to host several such guests coming to Regina in January.

Nelson Eng an entrepreneur and travel agency owner, didn’t hesitate to recommend the Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites to his distinguished and internationally respected guests.

Eng also directly relies on the Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites to accommodate bus tour patrons from Alberta. “It’s a PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

special place where people are treated with special care,” said Eng.

Unmatched value Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites offers around the clock front desk service and has staff available to satisfy any guests’ needs.

The hotelier anticipates needs too. It’s one of the only hotels in Saskatchewan to offer fully wheelchair accessible accommodations for the mobility impaired. Every feature of the room, including the bath and shower, were created to suit the needs of people with impaired mobility or wheelchair users.

Although it’s one of the few hotels that still offers smoking-permitted rooms, the average guests wouldn’t know it – all smoking rooms are located on the top floor and all the rooms’ windows open to improve air circulation.

Lifestyle is important to Chateau Regina Hotel & Suite patrons, which is why there is a fitness centre, heated indoor pool and hot tub on the premises.

Individuality matters, too. There are 155 rooms and suites but no two are alike. The decor for each is unique; no two rooms and suites share the same palate of colour coordinated linens and accents, making each stay a new, homey experience.

Although it’s one of Regina’s newest hotels, Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites is guided by good old-fashioned values: provide the highest standard of service every day, to everyone, 365 days a year.

Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites is ideal for business travellers, families, even large groups! Check out how ‘suite’ life can be by booking it for your next conference, meeting, stay or weekend escape.

Chateau Regina Hotel & Suites 1110 Victoria Ave East Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.565.0455 Toll Free Reservations: 866.937.1131 Reservations: reserve@chateaureginahotel.com

52

FineLifestyles REGINA

FineLifestyles

REGINA

WINTER 2010 VOLUME 2, ISSUE 4

VICTOR SAWA

REGINA IN

Give the gift of FineLifestylesREGINA Fine Lifestyles Regina is distributed directly to select homes in Regina, Emerald Park, White City, Regina Beach, Moose Jaw and area.

If you’d like to give your friends and loved ones the gift of Fine Lifestyles, subscriptions are available at

FineLifestyles.CA

Valley Girls Catering Valley Girls Catering was established in 2002, and is owned and operated by Beata Thompson, Tania Fraser, Gerda Klyne, Mary McCusker and Allison Sweet. They operate Fresh & Sweet, Tartan Curling club, Sherwood Forest Country club, Currie Field, and The Brickhouse Bistro in Lumsden.

Check out their website at www.valleygirlscatering.ca for more information.

2500 Victoria Avenue

Canadian Oils Building, across from City Hall

751.2233 OPEN SATURDAY & SUNDAY 9:00 AM- 3:00 PM

WEEKEND BREAKFAST MENU Omelete Loaded? Ham, green & red pepper, mushrooms, green onion, tomatoes and cheese.

Smoked Salmon Bagel Fresh dill cream cheese, red onions and pea shoots.

Buffalo Benny Wrap Scrambled eggs, ham, green onion, tomatoes (spiked with red hot) and hash wrapped with some creamy hollandaise.

Mexican Breakfast Squarito Scrambled eggs, peppers, green onions, mushrooms and cheese, wrapped up in a cheese tortilla. Topped with salsa.

Chicken Waffle Honey Dijon chicken, mozza, drizzled honey and panini grilled.

Strawberry Goat Cheese Waffle Fresh waffle topped with sugared almonds, strawberries, goat cheese, raspberry balsamic vinaigrette and whipped cream.

Maple Glazed Bacon Waffle Hot, fresh waffle topped with bacon smothered in maple syrup.

Bacon/Ham & Eggs Bacon or Ham, 2 eggs, hashbrowns, and toast.

Bacon & Egg - er Fried egg, bacon and melted cheese on a bun. Served with hashbrowns French Toast Topped with Nutella, or warm apples with cinnamon butter or sautéed banana, peanut butter and honey White Chocolate Banana Bread French Toast Topped with whipped cream.

Grilled Cinnamon Bun Topped with your choice of our homemade gelato.

Bacon & Peach Pancake Panini Topped with whipped cream and syrup.

Heavenly Grilled Ciabatta Sliced banana, peanut butter, honey and white chocolate grilled on Ciabatta.

Holy Cow this is yummy.

Cinnaffle Cinnamon Waffle with Cream Cheese icing and whipped cream Bananas Foster Butter Rum waffle with bananas sautéed in cinnamon, butter and brown sugar Lemon Meringue Waffle Topped with lemon curd, meringue and whipped cream Caramel apple pie Waffle Topped with apples sautéed in brown sugar, butter, cinnamon and caramel Red Velvet Pancakes Topped with cream cheese icing. Amazing!

Serving Freshly Squeezed OJ

who are the Name (Nickname) Tania (Rae-Bob, T-Dog) Where do you work?

Everywhere they need me What do you do?

I am all knowing... as little as possible How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

All my life What’s your favorite food?

Fruit Salsa & Cinnamon Chips of course

Name (Nickname) Gerda (Mama G) Where do you work?

Tartan & Currie Field What do you do?

I take holidays! haha How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

Forever!

What’s your favorite food?

Anything Sweet & Fresh

Name (Nickname) Allie Where do you work?

Fresh & Sweet What do you do?

Name (Nickname) I put the ‘Sweet’ in Fresh & Sweet Mary (Mumma Mare) How long have you been a ‘Valley Where do you work?

Girl’?

Brickhouse Bistro 1 year- plus many years of free What do you do? advice I boss What’s your favorite food?

How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

Buffalo Benny Wrap 3.5 years What’s your favorite food?

Gnocchi

Name (Nickname) Beata (Queen B) Where do you work?

Everywhere- but mostly at my desk!

What do you do?

I come up with brilliant ideas- and then the fabulous people around me bring them to life How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

8 years What’s your favorite food?

Smoked Salmon Panini, Spinach & Feta Quiche, Buffalo Benny Wrap Should I go on? I love food, that’s why I do what I do!

56

FineLifestyles REGINA

Name (Nickname) Jennifer (Jenny from the Block) Where do you work?

Name (Nickname) Everywhere- I go where I’m needed!

Rhiara What do you do?

Where do you work?

Everything..with style!

Fresh & Sweet How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

What do you do?

6 years Everything..and then some!

What’s your favorite food?

How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcake 9 months What’s your favorite food?

Red Velvet Cupcake Name (Nickname) Jordan (Jordo) Where do you work?

Name (Nickname) Fresh & Sweet, Sherwood, Tartan, been Jessica (Gaga) known to pull a shift at the Brickhouse Where do you work?

What do you do?

Fresh & Sweet Head supervisor of supervision!

What do you do?

How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

Everything! :) 2 years How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

What’s your favorite food?

8 months Bananas Foster Waffle What’s your favorite food?

Buffalo Benny Wrap Name (Nickname) Francis (F-Dog) Where do you work?

Name (Nickname) Brickhouse Bistro Kristina (Smiley) What do you do?

Where do you work?

Rock Fresh & Sweet, Tartan How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

What do you do?

Never been a girl, but I live in the valley...

Everything! :) What’s your favorite food?

How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

Bryan’s special (it’s a chicken dish) 11 months What’s your favorite food? #9 Panini Name (Nickname) Jessica (El Prego- or Pregger’s) Name (Nickname) Where do you work?

Alyssia (Pastry Princess) Fresh & Sweet, Sherwood Where do you work?

What do you do?

Fresh & Sweet/ Tartan Bust out amazing food What do you do?

How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

In charge of awesomeness!!!

1.5 years aka cupcakes & sweets What’s your favorite food?

How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’?

Butter Chicken Panini 14 months What’s your favorite food?

White Chocolate Banana Bread French Toast Name (Nickname) Lucia (Little lou lou) Where do you work? Still in training at home What do you do? Taste tester & quality control How long have you been a ‘Valley Girl’? As soon as I’m old enough..

What’s your favorite food? Birthday Cake Gelato

Valley Girls Catering 2500 Victoria Ave, Regina, Sk. 306.751.2233 www.valleygirlscatering.com

finelifestylesregina | arts, entertainment and dining

The Willetts on Wine Exploring the world of wine at Canada’s iconic Castle in the Rockies

BY MARGARET ANNE & EDWARD WILLETT

Where can you hear the Director of Heritage and Hospitality from preeminent luxury Champagne maker Moët & Chandon, an over-the-top stand-up comedian discuss fabulous but unfamiliar Italian varietals, and the son-in-law of Fess Parker, a.k.a. Davy Crockett of Walt Disney fame, all on the same weekend?

Just a day’s drive west, at the Fairmont Banff Spring’s International Festival of Wine and Food.

Imagine a weekend in Canada’s iconic mountain castle hotel, where every view has spawned a million postcards, royally fed by the hotel’s executive chef, learning about and sampling some of the world’s finest wines.

It may sound like a weekend to be pampered, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Tastings start at 9 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday, and you can expect to taste at least 16 wines in two sessions before lunch, where you can actually drink the six wines on offer—before, on Saturday, heading off to another tasting after that. (How much tasting is involved?

The 170 guests went through some 11,000 wine glasses in total.)

But the best part is being with engaging and knowledgeable winemakers from around the world.

This year’s emcee, Anthony (Tony) Gismondi, Wine Access magazine editor and

58

FineLifestyles REGINA

Vancouver Sun columnist, said, “Wine is all about family, and the more interesting the winemakers, the more interesting the wine!”, and the winemakers proved it all weekend long.

Consider Bernard Sparr from Alsace’s Pierre Sparr winery, who brought nine very food-friendly Rieslings, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminers. His family has owned Pierre Sparr winery for 10 generations, since 1680.

Fess Parker Winery may only date to the 1980s rather than the 1680s, but it’s also a family-run business: Fess’s son-in-law, Tim Snider, led us through a tasting of several minerally, food-oriented Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. (Tony, our emcee, gave us a great rule of thumb: Pinots are all about the up-front mouth feel of the wine, rather than the long, lingering aftertaste of fine Bordeaux.)

Australia’s De Bartoli employs hundreds of people and exports to 70 countries, but it has its roots in the classic immigrant story of Vittoria De Bortoli, who immigrated to Australia from Northern Italy and established the winery in 1928. The third generation now runs De Bartoli, and among their wines is Australia’s answer to a dessert Sauternes, Noble One, a botrytis-affected Sémillon with caramel and orange overtones that is bright and acidic enough not to cloy, as so many sweet dessert wines do.

One of the festival’s most dynamic wine gurus was Maurizio de Rosa from Feudi di San Gregorio. Born, raised and still living in Naples, Maurizio recounted the migration of wine from Greece to Italy. The Greeks planted vines on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. (These days, they’re grown a respectful distance away from the still-active volcano). From his home, Maruzio looks out at Vesuvius every day, a constant reminder of wine’s ancient history.

Our first San Gregorio wine was made from the Greco (Greek) grape, which produces a lovely floral-scented-yet-crisp white with notes of lemon and orange, in both sparkling and still formats. Next, we tasted red wines with strong berry and licorice notes made from the Primitivo grape, recently genetically identified as identical to California’s signature Zinfandel.

However, Maurizio saved the most interesting wine until last. Teasing his audience with a photo of a distinctly Mediterranean-style tree, Maurizio finally explained it wasn’t a tree at all, but a 140-year-old grapevine that survived the phylloxera infestation that destroyed most of the vines in Europe late in the 19th century. This and other ancient vines still produce wines of exceptional flavour: Robert Parker has given them a 98point rating, near perfect!

Rounding out the tastings were wines from much closer to home: the Okanagan Valley’s Sandhill, named Winery of the

Year at the 2009 Canadian Wine Awards.

Winemaker Howard Soon gave us a mini vertical tasting of three different vintages of Sangiovese, Barbera, and the red blend Two. That covers the wine. Throw in two incredible lunches, the overwhelming Vintner’s Reception on Friday night (wine and numerous food stations offering everything from seafood to lamb to risotto to fabulous cheeses and desserts), and the black-tie

gourmet gala dinner and dance on the Saturday night, and you’ll understand why we go back to the Banff Springs International Festival of Food and Wine every chance we get… and keep urging our wine-drinking friends to do the same.

Margaret Anne and Edward Willett drink wine, buy wine, taste wine, write about wine, conduct wine tastings, belong to three different wine clubs, and have more corkscrews than they can count.

Contact The Willetts on Wine at ewillett@sasktel.net.

Like to know more? Contact the Banff Springs Hotel at bsh.wineandfood@Fairmont.com...and maybe we’ll see you there in 2011!

Our Readers Recommend Dr. George Carson & Sheila Carson Osoyoos Larose Grand Vin & Petales d’Osoyoos Osoyoos Larose Grand Vin and its little brother, Petales d’Osoyoos, are wonderful siblings.

The Larose is substantial and balanced with a nice enduring finish. Grown, produced and bottled in Oliver, B.C., the Grand Vin is a classic Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. The little brother is also a Bordeaux blend of the same varietals. We recently invited two friends for a dinner and a blind tasting of these two wines. The unanimous favourite was the more expensive Grand Vin, but all agreed that if one had only the Petales to taste it would be more than acceptable. At SLGA stores, the Grand Vin retails for $47.99, while the Petales is available for $25.99.

George Carson is an obstetrician on the prairies who would rather be sailing and/or drinking wine.

FineLifestyles REGINA

59

Celebrates 25 years in Saskatchewan

BY JENNIFER SEMESOCK Twenty-five years ago, Darrell and Delphine Neu did not expect they would be a top wholesale supplier of coffee brewing products in Saskatchewan.

Their dreams of opening a coffee house began in a small coffee shop in the Northgate Mall—then called the Daily Grind—and have since expanded across the province, with offices in Regina, Saskatoon, and Moose Jaw. Today, you can walk into any café, coffee house, restaurant, casino or hospital and know that their high-end brewing products could have been supplied by Colony Coffee & Tea.

Family owned, family run Colony Coffee & Tea is a family owned, family run business. Darrell and

60

FineLifestyles REGINA

Delphine opened their coffee store after being married only a year. Today, their son and daughter work in the business with them. Though they employ people outside their family, “it’s still a familylike atmosphere,” says Darrell. This is evident through their outstanding level of personal service and training they provide to their customers. Darrell stresses that his employees have been an integral part of the success of Colony Coffee & Tea. “Without them we could not have grown.”

“We have educated coffee drinkers since 1985” Darrell recalls from the early days

of working in his coffee shop: “Every customer that came into our store looked up at our sign and asked, ‘what is a café latte?’” New coffee trends were slowly making their entrance into Canada in the early 80s, and Saskatchewan was slow to jump on board. Business for the Neus did not start strong. “We are not able to say that we opened up our coffee store and it exceeded our expectations,” says Darrell.

Their store 25 years ago was very similar to what it is now, specializing in liquid sales, beans and giftware. However, through years of perseverance, the Neus were there to educate coffee drinkers on the trends in coffee-drinking.

Twenty-five years later, not only have they trained owners of cafés and coffee

PHOTOS BY VIENNA DI RUSCIO PHOTOGRAPHY

shops on how to make specialty drinks, but they have become the number one supplier of commercial espresso and high-grade coffee brewing products in Saskatchewan.

products to the customers, so they can create coffees that can be sold in their customers’ restaurants and cafés.

Sell, service, train

“I think we’re really lucky that we never gave up on the high-grade coffee trend,” says Darrell. “Our success is that we stayed current.” Though Colony Coffee

Colony Coffee & Tea specializes in three main areas: they distribute and sell high grade coffee brewing equipment as well as coffee and tea; they provide service and repairs on all their products; and they train their customers on how to use them. Whether it is for a hospital, casino, restaurant or café, they deliver follow-through from the purchase to setting up and using the product.

“Our experience making drinks in Northgate helps us now as we sell and educate customers,” says Darrell. After setting up the coffee equipment for their customer, Darrell oversees that a future relationship is maintained.

During a training session, employees of Colony Coffee & Tea introduce their

Success for the future

& Tea has expanded to wholesale and servicing, you can still visit their shop in the Northgate Mall for high quality coffee, beans and service.

Keurig one-cup-at-a-time coffee brewers are a growing trend in the world of coffee lovers, and the store in Northgate carries a large selection of these machines. As always, Colony’s unique bean selection is still available, specializing in unique blends that cannot be found anywhere else in Regina. Colony Coffee & Tea continues to participate in their Office Coffee program, delivering coffee to a variety of workplaces throughout Saskatchewan.

To learn more about the products and services of Colony Coffee & Tea, visit their website at www.colonycoffee. com.

Colony Coffee & Tea Phone: 306.545.5282 www.colonycoffee.com

FineLifestyles REGINA

61

Making a great dinner can be fun and effortless!

About From Scratch Kitchen Meal assembly is a new way to solve the common dinner dilemma! We create delicious, well balanced & healthy home-cooked meals for individuals and busy families on the go! Meals are easily customized to individual tastes.

We have been growing our locally owned and operated business over the past 3 years and are completely passionate about what we do everyday down at our Kitchen! It is with great pleasure that in July we welcomed Christine Lachowitzer as a new partner to our From Scratch Team. Christine comes to us with a wealth of experience and has quickly become invaluable to our business allowing us to grow and move forward with new ideas, directions and developments while continuing to improve upon our current services and products.

At From Scratch Kitchen we do almost everything for you! We do the menu planning, shopping, chopping, slicing & dicing and even take care of the mess & clean-up! You simply select from a variety of our healthy & delicious, home-cooked menu items. Then come into our Kitchen for a fun & easy in-store meal assembly session and in less than 2 hours see how easy it is to create 10 ready to cook entrees & sides, to have on hand in your freezer, ready to enjoy anytime.

If you would like to save even more time, simply choose your selections, place your order for pick up and let us assemble your meals for you. Or stop by From Scratch Kitchen and shop from our Fresh & Frozen Ready To Go Take & Bake Selections always available.

Imagine preparing quality food that is custom-tailored to your family’s liking in practically no time at all. No more last minute trips to the grocery store or having to settle for the fast food substitute. Just take out one of your pre-assembled meals and relax. Your family will have a nutritious appetizing meal and you will have more time to unwind.

From Scratch provides you with all the ingredients and assistance you need to easily create high quality meals to cook at home. We do all of the work and most of the clean up so

We know your life is busy... you don’t have to.

Great food is our business!

“We have selected only the best...because ingredients matter the most.”

At From Scratch Kitchen we recognize that it’s all about the food. People need flavourful healthy and well-balanced meals that the entire family will enjoy eating. Every ingredient has been specifically chosen based on its quality, taste and freshness in order to create the most flavourful of dishes.

There are always several healthy meals to choose from. Many of our recipes can be adjusted to offer a lower fat, lower carbohydrate and lower/no sodium versions as an alternative. We can also substitite brown pasta, rice & breads where requested. These low-fat/ low-carbohydrate menu choices always make it easy to eat right.

Our Meal Assembly Kitchen strictly follows all food safety rules & regulations. We pride ourselves in our high standard of cleanliness.

All customers are trained in basic food safety protocol, food prep areas are constantly disinfected, proper hand washing and prevention of cross contamination is always observed.

Gloves are made available to all customers, food consumed by others is never touched by the customer, and all storage & cooking instructions comply with the food safety guidelines. Please drop in anytime for a tour of our wonderful facility.

How it works Creating 10 meals for yourself and your family

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURI WIBERG

In today’s fast-paced world, providing healthy and delicious home-cooked meals for yourself and your family every night is not always easy. Now, you and your busy family don’t have to compromise between time and quality when it comes to dinner! Just think, “From Scratch Kitchen” and let us give you a hand with dinner tonight!

is a simple, quick and easy process with From Scratch Kitchen. The process can be broken down into 3 simple steps: 1.

2.

3.

Place your order Assemble selected meals Cook dinner

Order You can place your order in a matter of minutes using our convenient website. Just visit the “Plan Your Meals” section of our site and select a date, time and which meals you would like to prepare.

If you prefer to have a customer service representative help you with your order please call us at (306) 522-MEAL (6325) or visit our store location.

Each month we offer more than 20 meals complete with side dishes to choose from. In addition, many of our dishes can be altered to your liking to customize your order. Visit our website to view this month’s menu.

Assemble Your fun and easy In-store Meal Assembly Session begins the moment you step into our kitchen, your From Scratch Meal Co-ordinator will greet you and make you feel at home.

After a brief tour and orientation, you will be presented with an apron and your order checklist. You will have washed your hands and will be ready to get started with your meal assembly. You will move around to the various stations according to the meals you have selected.

Following the simple preparation instructions

provided for each recipe, you will begin to assemble your meals by measuring, mixing and pouring our pre-cut, pre-portioned and premade ingredients and sauces for your meals into baking pans or plastic freezer bags to go, complete with cooking instructions.

While you’re assembling your meals, enjoy chatting with friends or introducing yourself to those at neighbouring stations. We hope you enjoy the ease and convenience our spacious kitchen offers and all of our kitchen gadgets and toys we’ve gathered that will make your meal assembly a breeze!

We provide a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere where you are able to work at your own pace. Feel free to take a break in our lounge area and enjoy complimentary refreshments.

t

Enjoy new and exciting, healthy and delicious meals at home with your family! t Portion controlled meals. Eat healthier balanced meals to stay healthy and strong or to help lose weight!

It all adds up to more time for you and your family and better meals on the table!

Make it an Event with a Private Party!

Assemble your meals with a group of friends, family members or co-workers. You can enjoy yourselves in our kitchen while you assemble your meals together. As always, we do all the planning, shopping and prep-work. Enjoy each other’s compay, pre order some appetizers, have a glass of wine and the task of planning and preparing dinner will be turned into a time to reconnect with others and we’ll take

In 2 hours or less you will have finished assembling your incredible uncooked meals and will have had fun doing it!

Once all of your entrees have been completed you will be assisted in gathering and transporting them to your car. From here you can say goodbye to friends, old and new, and take your ready-to-cook entrees home to store in your freezer until you are ready to enjoy them.

Cook When you are ready to enjoy one of your dinners just follow our simple instructions on how to quickly prepare your meal using basic utensils. Soon you’ll have a great meal ready without any of the hard work. No planning, no shopping, no chopping, no clean up, no waste, simply a healthy & delicious dinner from scratch!

Benefits of a Meal Assembly Kitchen Save Time! t 18 hours for 10 meals t No more hectic menu planning t Reduce grocery shopping time and number of trips t Reduce at home meal preparation and cooking times t Little to no clean-up Save Money! t Eliminate waste. No spoiled groceries t Only pay for the ingredients used in your meal not a whole jar or package of something that will be thrown out from not being used up before expiry! t No wasting money on spontaneous high cost junk food purchases and fast food stops t Quality food at an exceptional price!

Reduce Stress! t No more wondering “What’s for dinner”? It’s taken care of and is in the fridge or freezer!

care of all of the clean up afterwards!

To reserve a date and time for your party call, visit or e-mail our store. We will close our store to the public and open it for just you and your party! As the host of the party, we will provide you with a code to give each of your guests attending the session. Everyone will need to individually register and choose their own meals at least one week prior to your selected session date.

Private Parties must consist of 6 to 14 people, each purchasing and registering for a package of a minimum of 5 dinners. If you do not have 6 or more friends registered at least one week prior to your session, we will open the remainder of the session to the public.

Someone in your Party will be a WINNER! We will raffle off one FREE MEAL at each Private Party.

Organizer Benefits: Earn one free meal just for being the organizer of a Private Party.

Attendee Benefits: Sign up for a 10 Dinner package and get an additional meal on us!

Think of From Scratch Kitchen for: In-Store Meal Assembly Sessions Place an Order to be Assembled by Us for Pick Up Meals Ready To Go Anytime!

Christmas Parties Interactive Corporate Team Building and Special Company Events Ladies’ Night Out, Splurge/Indulgence Group Events Couples Date Night Gift Giving with From Scratch Gift Certificates The Perfect Gift for Anyone!

Family and Social Gatherings and Celebrations Kids Birthday Parties, Themed & Holiday Baking Days Cooking Classes, Catering and Culinary Adventures Weddings, Bridal or Baby Showers Who Uses From Scratch Kitchen Meal Assembly Services? t Busy Professionals t On the Go Families t Couples t Singles t Seniors/Elderly t Shift Workers t University Students t New Parents t Newly Weds t Individuals experiencing/recovering from illness t Families coping with the loss of a loved one t And just about anyone finding they have not enough time to cook properly or those wanting to take a break from having to do it everyday. t Health conscious individuals wanting to eat a variety of healthy, well balanced & delicious meals.

Try it today!

You’ll be amazed how easy it is!

From Scratch Kitchen and Cafe Inc. 401 Victoria Avenue (Corner of Victoria Ave. and Elliott St.)

(306) 522-MEAL (6325) customerservice@fromscratchkitchen.com Website: www.fromscratchkitchen.com FineLifestyles REGINA

63

Expert Advice on Tea

Ask the Tea ladies with Nicole and Jule Cuppa T (Jule) 2732 - 13th Ave, Regina 306.352.4411 |www.cuppateas.com Cuppa T II (Nicole) 134 - 13th Primrose Drive, Saskatoon 306.979.6816 www.cuppateas.com

Nicole and Jule, owners of Cuppa T in Regina and Cuppa T II in Saskatoon, would like to welcome you to our “Ask the Tea Ladies” articles on tea. To start off our début we would like to feature a very popular tea. Raspberry Leaf or Rubus ideaeus is what most of us know as Raspberry Leaf Tea. This tea is hugely popular amongst expectant mothers. It is said to have many beneficial properties before, during and after pregnancy. Even with all the benefits you should always consult with your doula, midwife or OB/ GYN prior to any additions or changes to your diet during pregnancy. It is believed that if you drink Raspberry Leaf tea it may help with menstrual issues and fertility. If taken during pregnancy, combined with a little peppermint, you may get some degree of aid with morning

sickness... what a relief! A cup of tea taken on the advice of and with the approval of your care giver, throughout, may help prevent miscarriage; aid in lactation; lessen the chance of a c-section; strengthen the pelvic muscles and uterine walls to help with an easier labour and delivery; and assist the uterus in its return to normal after the birth.

taste of the tea are believed to help with leg cramps; relief of cold and flu symptoms; canker and cold sores. If applied topically it may help with many minor skin conditions! Whoooda thunk it? Tea may do all those things? You bet, and it tastes way better than most medications we have encountered in our lifetime.

Now, there are many benefits of this tea for those of us who are not pregnant.

Red Raspberry leaf tea contains many vitamins and minerals beneficial not only to expectant moms but to all of us!

A few of those advantageous vitamins and minerals are flavonoids, tannins, vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, iron and magnesium. All of these plus the great

So have a cup of Raspberry Leaf tea and enjoy all the benefits. WISH IT, DREAM IT, DO IT… WITH TEA! …until next time.

Happy Holidays from your friends at the

Royal Saskatchewan Museum Your family destination.

Winter Hours 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily Located at the corner of Albert St & College Ave

For more info: (306) 787-2815 www.royalsaskmuseum.ca

since 1906 RSM www.royalsaskmuseum.ca

Keeping our balance

BY CAROL TODD Dr. Linda Duxbury has them rolling in the aisles at her presentations. Literally. She asks everyone to stand then raise a hand if they work outside the home and raise the other hand if they have children. Participants with both arms in the air start to teeter when asked to lift a leg if they are caring for elderly parents, and they all begin to fall, laughing, as she tells them to raise their other leg if they also have responsibilities for housework or other duties around the house.

Point made. It’s a struggle to juggle all of our responsibilities. More and more of us find ourselves caught between our jobs and our families. Like trying to stand with both feet in the air, it leaves us teetering on the brink of collapse. Many of us are also part of what’s become known as the “sandwich” generation—we’re caught between caring for our children and coping

with the sometimes difficult needs of our aging parents. Add to that the necessity of making a living, and it can be overwhelming.

And, it’s not just us poor working stiffs— our employers feel the bite, too. In a 2004 report, Statistics Canada estimated that stress-related disorders due to overwork cost Canadian businesses $12 billion a year. And, a big factor is the increasing need for us to juggle our family and work responsibilities. Increasing economic pressures on both individuals and corporations, technological change, and the growing percentage of working families who are caring for both children and elderly parents have combined to put increased pressure on our lives. Whether you’re an employee trying to juggle both job and family, or an employer looking to maintain a productive workforce, work-

related stress can and does affect you. Yet, not only do we need to keep ourselves in balance, many of us have management or supervisory responsibilities that impose additional pressures as we try to do what’s best for the employees under us and the employers who pay our salaries. So, here we are, caught in the middle again.

Duxbury, who juggles home responsibilities with her day job at the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University, is considered one of Canada’s leading researchers in the area of work-life balance.

She believes work-life stress has become much worse since the 2004 StatsCan survey and her own seminal research back in 2001. The resulting report she coauthored with Dr. Chris Higgins in 2003, Work–Life Conflict in Canada in the New Millennium: A Status Report, found that at least one in four Canadians working for

FineLifestyles REGINA

65

finelifestylesregina | health and wellness

Keeping Our Balance (cont’d) medium and large organizations experienced high levels of conflict between work and family. The number soars to 60 per cent when role overload data (not having enough time to get everything done) is factored in.

Duxbury says technology has added significantly to role overload in the decade since her research. “We now have all this portable technology, which means that we can be in touch anywhere, and many organizations expect that we will do just that. Email has gotten out of control—it’s a whole other task that we have to do, but nothing has been taken away from us,” she says. At the same time, many corporations have responded to the recent financial downturn by trimming staff, creating even more work for those who remain. “They’ve cut people, but they haven’t cut work; in fact, they’ve added to it,” says Duxbury.

One of the other elements that Duxbury believes has caused the balance to tip even further since the start of the new millennium is that men are now also feeling the stress as they take on more responsibilities at home. And, Duxbury points out that the issue of elder care was just emerging back in 2001. “It is now front and centre. We’re seeing a growth of the sandwich generation, and all of those things (emerging issues) are making balance more, rather than less, problematic,” she says.

The juggling act gets even more complicated around Christmas and other holidays, when people look forward to getting the entire family together and enjoying the parties and celebrations that come with a holiday. “It gets worse at Christmas,” Duxbury says. “You’ve still got your work demands, but you’ve got a whole lot more family demands and you’ve got a whole lot more social demands. The pulls on your time increase dramatically.”





East Indian Curry & Tandoori Delight

Enjoy favourites such as butter chicken, samosas, pakora, korma, biryani and much more.

We offer a daily luncheon buffet, a bargain at $12 tax included, featuring traditional dishes including naan bread and tandoori chicken prepared to perfection in our charcoal fired tandoor oven.

Duxbury is in the process of researching a 2011 update to the 2003 report, and invites Saskatchewan businesses to participate. “We’re using a lot of the same indicators and measures, so we’ll be able to really see how things have changed over time,” she says. The data collection is underway and she expects the report to be out some time in 2012. Given the relatively strong provincial economy here, she is especially interested in getting input for the study from Saskatchewan businesses, and encourages any that are interested to contact her at Carleton.

As Saskatchewan and other Canadian businesses look to the future, Duxbury advises that it is critical for them to take steps to address the issue of balance, especially given the changing nature of the workforce. “Recruitment, retention and succession planning, all of those are related to work-life balance,” she says. Being able to keep both feet on the ground is a good start.

66

HOURS: 11:30am-2:00pm, 4:30pm-9:00pm, Closed Sunday

www.spiceofpunjab.com

1009 Albert Street 543-1000 FineLifestyles REGINA

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Achieving Greater Balance Through Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Jarron Yee The Medicine Shoppe 2310 9th Ave. N Regina, Sk 306.543.5555 www.medicineshopperegina.ca Menopausal symptoms affect approximately 70% of women.

Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, depressed mood and irritability, which are caused by changing hormonal levels in the body.

Menopause has a wide starting range but typically, it can be expected between the mid-40’s and mid-50’s. Along with lifestyle changes, there are prescription treatments available to help cope with these symptoms.

Conventional hormone replacement therapy is the most commonly prescribed treatment for menopausal symptoms. These treatment options include standard dosages of estrogens, derived from the urine of pregnant mares and progestins which are synthetic hormones not naturally occurring in nature.

Each of us is different, so it stands to reason that sometimes standard dosages may not be adequate for everyone.

Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) can have incredible benefits for menopausal women with the use of natural, healthy supplements derived from plant hormones which are biologically identical to those naturally occurring in the body. BHRT uses the same hormones as your own body to minimize those unwanted side effects of changing hormones. The value of BHRT is that it can be adapted to fit your individual body and hormone levels therefore helping to maintain your health and well-being.

suppositories and sublingual troches or lozenges. As a specialized compounding pharmacy, we will work with you and your physician to restore your natural balance and to relieve menopausal symptoms and slow the progression of age-related conditions such as osteoporosis and heart disease.

Discover the healthy difference between natural hormone replacement compounds and the standard, synthetic medications. Ask The Medicine Shoppe CustomMeds Pharmacist about bio-identical hormone therapy, the healthy way to supplement. For more information on BHRT, go to www.medicineshopperegina.ca

Hormones can be made in a variety of strengths and dosage forms including capsules, topical creams and gels,

FineLifestyles REGINA

67

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Hearing in Background Noise Dr. Debbie Davis, Aud (C), Au.D Doctor of Audiology

Eastside Audiology & Rehabilitation Inc. 1830b Victoria Ave E. Regina, SK S4N 7K3 306.359.3277 www.lifewithsound.com Have you or your children ever sung the wrong lyrics to songs? Our national anthem sung with the words, “Oh Canada, we stand on cars and freeze,” or a Christmas carol containing the line “later on we’ll perspire as we dream by the fire.”

These are examples of phoneme or word recognition, and I’m sure many of you have hilarious examples of people simply getting it oh-so-wrong. However, what is funny on a ‘one-off’ type of situation loses its humour when word recognition is so impaired that it occurs on a daily basis. These daily occurrences can result in problems ranging from frustration and embarrassment to a lack of confidence in meeting new people all the way up to the more severe social isolation.

Roughly 90 per cent of the new patients that I see for hearing evaluations note that they have problems hearing in background noise. The concern is not just the “background” of the music getting too loud to interpret the “signal” of the lyrics of the music, but difficulty with understanding speech in restaurants, speech at a social gathering, or really noisy environments like a bar or Rider game. Although this difficulty can be a sign of a clinically significant hearing loss requiring hearing aids, it can also be seen in individuals with normal or near normal hearing in both the young and elderly alike. Technically speaking, when we talk about background noise we are really talking about auditory processing and how the two most complex organs of the body, the cochlea and the brain interact.

In its simplest depiction the cochlea is a snail like structure 1/2 the size of a dime that has 20,000 hair cells that are each finely tuned for different frequencies

68

FineLifestyles REGINA

within it - like keys on a piano. It is such a complex organ that the slightest change in how it functions affects your abilities to understand in background noise.

Changes in how it functions can occur from genetics, aging, noise exposure, and or medical conditions. Neuroscience continues to study auditory processing and how the brain handles noise but the end result is that everyone can benefit from better knowledge of the way our ears and brain handles hearing in background noise. This understanding helps those with normal hearing develop the proper management for auditory disorders through different training programs. Those with hearing loss may find their solution in the advent of newer and better technology in hearing aids. In order to identify your ability to cope in background noise, we need to specifically test for it.

To test for one’s ability to hear in background noise we must go beyond the basic “beep test” since patients with normal or near normal hearing can have difficulty in noise. There are three tests that I do in my standard hearing evaluation that is sensitive to auditory changes that relate to difficulties hearing in noise. The first is otoacoustic emission, the second is extended high frequency testing and the last is my most real-world test, the speech in noise test. The first two tests require specialized equipment but the final test, the speech in noise test, has to be my favourite as it is most relevant to the situation and more easily understood. The patient is expected to repeat sentences under increasing background noise and when they are no longer able to understand the sentence

100 per cent, we are able to determine to what degree the individual is affected by a noisy environment. The quantitative score that is received is the signal to noise ratio, or the point where the patient must hear the signal (or person we are speaking to) versus the noise that is not the focus. Communication strategies for those with normal hearing include proper eye contact, body placement with the back against a wall, use of good lighting, use of facial expressions and gestures, and avoiding conversation with food or gum in the mouth.

If you have hearing loss, different manufacturers have developed hearing aids with various concepts to deal with background noise such as frequency compression, extended bandwidth, or receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids. Speech enhancement and background noise suppression that provides improved signal to noise ratios are also concepts that have been marketed this past year.

For those with hearing aids, consider new technology hearing aids. They are not all as expensive as you may have heard and the continued research in auditory processing is leading to major improvements. As always, when in doubt, check with your audiologist for any concerns regarding your hearing health.

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

Synergy Health & Wellness PHOTO BY CALVIN FEHR

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK Synergy Health and Wellness Centre is a first for Regina! Located at 2332 Scarth Street, this independently owned interdisciplinary health centre has everything you need to help you enjoy an active lifestyle.

This unique concept brings together the resources of professionals in the fields of physiotherapy, podiatry, personal fitness, massage, reflexology, mental training and Pilates. The ‘synergy’ that is created from this holistic and personal approach to mind and body wellness is refreshing and a welcome addition to the city’s growing need for quality health services.

Synergy Physio Synergy Physio was founded by Donna Alport and Louise Ashcroft. Both were committed to a vision of excellent care provided professionally in a positive environment.

They have created a team that both shares and lives this vision.

70

FineLifestyles REGINA

Today, the Synergy Physio family of eight physiotherapists, a Certified Exercise Physiologist and office administrator, serve people of all ages helping them to live an active lifestyle, whether that means running a marathon, keeping up their garden, or taking evening walks. With certifications in areas of acupuncture, manipulative and/or sports therapy, combined with their years of experience, the therapists are leaders in their field.

Cutting edge technology is part of the Synergy dynamic. Dartfish, a state of the art video analyses software program that is just one example of Synergy’s commitment to provide services that help their clients reach their goals. Video analysis helps to pinpoint ways to maximize performance of a skill or to design more accurate exercise prescription for injury prevention.

Exercise physiologist, Jessica Putland is

currently seeing a variety of clients ranging from elite athletes to those participating in the Parkinson Exercise Program. Putland is eager to reach out to other groups through the development of new programs such as an osteoarthritis group exercise program, walking clinics and more.

Phone: 306.569.6683 www.synergyphysioregina.com

Massage Therapy For Crystal Badley, Registered Massage Therapist, catering to the needs of her clients is top priority.

Giving personal service to clients may mean combining therapeutic and relaxation techniques at times or just listening to someone talk about their day as they get treatment. Badley believes in treating each client individually and treating the entire

person.

“I really try to have a well-rounded approach,” comments Badley as she points out the importance of spending quality oneon-one time with each person and paying attention to the needs of the individual.

Badley specializes in traditional Swedish massage, Myofascial Release, Reiki I, Therapeutic deep tissue, relaxation, prenatal and post-natal massage. Badley is currently working on her Doula (labour coach) certification and infant massage instructor course to better suit her prenatal clients.

Call 540-8081 to book an appointment.

PHOTOS BY KRISTA FOWLER- DRAWN DAISY PHOTOGRAPHY

Mental Training As an athlete and coach, Brie EllardJedlic is passionate about helping people improve their performance. Ellard-Jedlic is an undergrad at the University of Regina, has earned her masters at the University of Western Ontario and is excited to be serving her clients in Regina by teaching effective strategies that help control negativity.

Whether you are an athlete, performer, trainer or student, Ellard-Jedlic states that the mind and the body work together in all contexts of your life.

Downs advises that the body will always take the path of least resistance and it is up to you to train yourself otherwise. By continually updating her training, Downs provides her clients with up-to-date support and encouragement on the road to healthy living. Visit online www.pilateswithmichelle. ca or call 551-4164.

Getting a Strong Footing Podiatrist Dr. Mino Deiana joined the Synergy Health and Wellness team in April from the University of Regina, and holds foot clinics every Wednesday. He obtained his podiatry degree from the University of Salford in Manchester, England, and has been in practice in Regina for over 12 years.

In addition to providing general podiatry care to his patients, Dr. Deiana has a special interest in running biomechanics and injuries. Among his many services is a treadmill and video camera which helps to better diagnose foot and ankle issues.

“We have a lot of interdisciplinary services available for patients,” states Dr. Deiana.

“When we train our minds properly, we enable our bodies to perform to their capacity,” says Ellard-Jedlic. For more information call 530-5304.

According to Dr. Deiana, having so many services under one roof provides care on many levels for individuals. Referrals and consultations can be made easily and assist clients with any physical issues they may have.

Pilates with Michelle

Everything under one

“The body was made to move by balancing both strength and flexibility” is how STOTT PILATES Certified Instructor Michelle Downs describes what she does.

Downs is a graduate of the U of R’s Physical Activities Studies. She stresses that, if the body doesn’t move or muscles are overtrained by doing too much forward bending and not enough stretching and strengthening of the back that will affect everything you do. Using the Reformer and Cadillac and teaching the STOTT PILATES method will aid in rebalancing the muscles around the joints to enhance mobility and reduce the chances of injury.

Roof With so many valuable services and caring professionals under one roof, it is easy to see why Synergy Health and Wellness has such a loyal clientele that continues to grow.

“We are a group of positive people who love our jobs and have a lot of fun serving our clients. That is the common thread that has brought us all together. That is the synergy,” concludes Alport.

Synergy Health & Wellness 2332 Scarth St, Regina, Sk.

FineLifestyles REGINA

71

the Real Way PHOTO BY CALVIN FEHR

BY MARK CLAXTON “This year, I’m going to lose weight.”

If muscle mass is lost, the metabolism and fat-burning capacity decreases.

That’s part of the reason few diets lead to long-term healthy weight loss.

can exercise for hours, but if you’re not eating right, not fuelling your body properly, you’re not going to see the results you want,” Howard says.

That vision led her to a partnership with Registered Dietitian Krista Sawatzky, who has a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition degree from the University of Saskatchewan and whose work is governed by the Saskatchewan Dietitians Association.

How about losing fat instead?

“That’s the distinction with our program compared to others,” says Howard, a personal trainer certified by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology. “It’s not about weight loss, it’s about fat loss—although, as you lose fat, you will lose weight too… properly. We don’t want people to do this program and then a couple of months later be right back where they started.”

While crash dieters will sometimes achieve significant, short-term weight loss, Nadine Howard cautions they often lose lean muscle as well as fat.

In her work with hundreds of clients, Howard has repeatedly seen the importance of combining good nutrition with proper exercise. “You

It’s likely the most common New Year’s resolution, with “I’m going to quit smoking” or “I’m going to watch my spending,” the other major competitors.

If the coming holiday season is likely to find you resolving once again to lose weight, Nadine Howard and Krista Sawatzky of Monarch Fat Loss Solutions Inc. have a friendly suggestion.

72

FineLifestyles REGINA

Krista and Nadine lead their clients through Monarch’s 12-Week Challenge, a personalized fat loss program that features balanced dietary guidelines, customized workout routines, and healthy doses of encouragement.

For Monarch’s clients, the journey begins with an intensive two-hour session in which Howard and Sawatzky outline the program’s principles.

Sawatzky provides a comprehensive nutritional overview, including topics such as regular balanced eating, each food group’s benefits, deciphering nutrition labels, appropriate serving and portion sizes, and individual meal guides.

“This gives our clients parameters,” Sawatzky says. “They have the flexibility to create their own meal plans that fit their lifestyle or culture.”

“We are surrounded by mixed messages over which foods offer the most benefit to our health. I love providing our clients with the tools to make that decision for themselves,” she says.

Howard provides a body composition analysis that measures the client’s weight in both fat mass and lean muscle mass. “We try to get people to stop using the number on the bathroom scale as an indicator of how well they’re doing,” Howard says. “Over the 12-week period, we emphasize other indicators such as losing fat (not muscle), having more strength and energy, improved sleep, looking leaner and feeling better overall.”

Howard works with clients to develop an individualized exercise program that, along with their new balanced diet, will help them shed unwanted fat. “So many people walk into a gym and don’t have a clue what to do,” Howard says. Monarch’s exercise programs are customized so clients can work out wherever they feel most comfortable—in their homes or at a fitness centre/gym of their choice— and they learn how often, and what exercises are required for both the strength training and cardiovascular components. She also offers a number of optional hour-long training sessions each week at various gyms

and training facilities to provide the clients with a nice diversity of fitness sessions to try.

Throughout the 12-Week Challenge, clients record their eating and exercise habits in a journal. That journal becomes the basis for weekly reviews with Howard and Sawatzky.

“I tell our clients the areas they need to work on each week to ensure they are getting optimal nutrition,” Sawatzky says. “Many people consider themselves to be nutrition experts, but unfortunately this can lead to misguided decisions.”

Beyond those weekly discussions, Krista and Nadine are both readily available to provide pep talks and encouragement whenever clients are feeling defeated or overwhelmed.

“Monarch is there to support them, 100 per cent, every single day,” Howard says. The partners find immense satisfaction in helping clients to lose fat in a sustainable and healthy way.

“This is the real way to do it,” Howard says. “It’s not a quick fix.”

“It’s not a gimmick,” agrees Sawatzky.

“We want this to be a lifestyle change.”

The next 12-Week Challenge begins in January 2011. Spaces are limited.

For more information, and to register now, visit www.realway2lose.com or call 540.7643.

Monarch Fat Loss Solutions Inc. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.540.7643 Email: info@realway2lose.com www.realway2lose.com

If losing fat is your New Year’s Resolution... you could WIN Monarch’s 12-Week Starter Program (starting second week in January, 2011) for FREE! Visit Monarch Fat Loss Solutions website www.realway2lose.com for more information.

Contest closes December 30, 2010.

“Seeking a positive lifestyle change, we enrolled as a couple in the Monarch Fat Loss Solutions 12-Week Challenge on September 19, 2010. Co-owners, Nadine and Krista, are a great combination for success.

The diligent feedback, support, guidance and accountability that are provided to us from this dynamic team have been pivotal to our success. After only six weeks, our combined fat loss total was over 31 pounds and we have added more than 5 pounds of lean mass. We are very excited and happy that we enrolled in this program and we are not looking back. We encourage all couples to take the challenge!”

- George and Louise Kress

The Water Warehouse Specializing in water softening and purification

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

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

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

Regina water is safe because it is treated and tested. On farms, however, where water may come from a well or dugout, arsenic and bacteria problems may exist. Communities around Regina who use wells may also have bacteria.

Chlorination and ultraviolet sterilization can be installed to purify the water.

Regina residents are mainly interested in water-purification systems that improve the taste and aesthetics of their water. That usually means a water softener and perhaps reverse osmosis (RO). The Water Warehouse offers these on a rental, purchase, or rent-toown basis.

Reverse osmosis, a membrane filtration

74

FineLifestyles REGINA

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

possible ecological footprint. Last year the company replaced its lighting and furnaces with more efficient models, and it uses fuel-efficient vehicles. As well, it offers the most efficient watersoftening products, which use less salt and waste less water.

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

Softeners also protect the plumbing and water heater from scale build-up.

The Water Warehouse can be reached at 522-4447. You can also check out their products and services at waterwarehouseregina.com.

The Water Warehouse will service any type of softener as long as parts are available. They can also hook up softeners, as well as pumping systems, for testing in their shop.

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

The Water Warehouse feels it is important to leave the smallest

The Water Warehouse 1540 Park Street, Regina, SK (306) 522-4447

Renew your spirit Refresh your soul

BY RYAN HOLOTA

In-Home Personal Training There are a lot of people who don’t like going to the gym to work out. Some of them are self-conscious about their body, or feel that gyms are only for the über-fit. At Wellness On The Way, we bring the gym to you, in the comfort and privacy of your own home or office.

Whether we work together until you are comfortable going to the gym on your own, or keep working with you to help you achieve all of your fitness goals.

With six certified trainers, Wellness On The Way makes fitness so convenient that it is almost harder not to exercise than it is to work out. Brittany Warren, the founder of the company, explains, “Our trainers bring everything to your home or office. Working with fun and different equipment such as exercise balls, kettle bells and exercise bands, we provide an incredibly effective workout that fits your life. If you happen to be someone who hangs your laundry on a piece of exercise equipment.

Youth Fitness With the only certified youth fitness instructors in the province, Wellness On The Way is the clear choice for youth fitness training in Regina and southern Saskatchewan. Brittany Warren and her team of fitness professionals combine games and physical conditioning to build a solid foundation for a life of physical activity.

Training programs are available for individuals, groups, and sports teams as young as age seven. Physical training starts with teaching proper technique to maximize efficiency and prevent injury.

When youths are taught from a young age that sports and physical activity are fun they learn confidence, teamwork, and the rewards of accomplishment.

Wellness On The Way works with youths to improve their skills and conditioning, even with kids who don’t like sports or who would rather play video games than run around with their friends.

Wellness on the Way Email: info@wellnessontheway.com Phone: 306.569.WELL (9355) wellnessontheway.com

FineLifestyles REGINA

75

Dr. Fleming was born and grew up in Regina where he attended W.H. Ford Elementary School then Michael A. Riffel High School.

Before turning to optometry, the doctor dedicated his passion to hockey. He moved away from Regina as a teenager to play goal for a number of clubs such as the Swift Current Legionnaires Midget AAA and the Spokane Chiefs of the Western Hockey League. He then came back to Regina to play on the Regina Pats and finished his junior hockey career with the Kindersley Klippers of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.

After getting a foundation at the other clinic in Northwest Regina, Dr. Fleming felt it was time to strike out on his own. He weighed the options and decided to open a nondispensing clinic, meaning one in which he will not be selling any eyewear.

“I felt, with all the numerous options and good quality eyewear optical locations provide these days, I could open a nondispensing clinic and focus solely on eye health examinations,” he says. “That way my patients have the freedom to take their prescription and purchase their eyewear at the location of their choice.”

Going his own way After 2 years of practicing in Regina, Dr. Shawn Fleming opens Healthy Eyes Optometry One of Regina’s own is venturing out in the Queen City with his own brand-new eye clinic, Healthy Eyes Optometry.

three years of pre-Optometry classes at the University of Regina making the Dean’s Honour List every year.

“I am very excited to serve the community that has done so much for me and look forward to providing my previous and new patients with comprehensive eye health care,” says Dr. Shaun Fleming.

The doctor also completed three externships, one in Guelph, Ontario; another with Eye Health Centre here in Regina, where Dr. Fleming has practiced for the last two years; and one with the Eye Foundation of Utah in Salt Lake City.

If his academic record is any indication that eye care will be one of dedication, commitment and thoroughness.

Dr. Fleming graduated in June 2008 with Honours from the University of Waterloo where he received the Alcon Continuing Professional Education Award and the Prize for Academic Excellence in Ocular Pharmacology. Before that, he completed

76

FineLifestyles REGINA

“In Utah, I gained valuable knowledge about the diagnosis, management and treatment of eye disease,” Dr. Fleming says.

But even while he was studying, Dr. Fleming would return home to support his growing family by working at the COOP refinery during the summers.

Nevertheless, Healthy Eyes is conveniently located next to Factory Optical on Rochdale Blvd, so patients can still enjoy the benefits of a traditional dispensing Optometric practice if they choose. The close proximity to Factory Optical is not a happy coincidence, though. “My association with Factory Optical represents a conscious decision to align my practice with an optical dispenser that shares my patientfirst values,” Dr. Fleming says. “In addition, it allows me to remain in northwest Regina, where I grew up, currently reside and previously practiced.’’

In his spare time, Dr. Fleming enjoys spending time with his wife and three young children. He also enjoys working out, running, hockey, all sports and playing with his dog in his backyard. Dr. Fleming loves anything to do with the Calgary Flames or Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Dr. Fleming looks forward to seeing previous and new patients. Walk-in appointments are available and appreciated. Healthy Eyes Optometry is conveniently open evenings, Saturdays and throughout the week to serve its patients. Healthy Eyes Optometry’s address is 5556 Rochdale Boulevard and the phone number is 757-4010.

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Hyperpigmentation and Its Treatment Radiant Skin Clinic 570 Main St. N. Moose Jaw, Sk. Phone: 306.972.SKIN (7546) www.radiantskinclinic.ca

Hyperpigmentation, a discoloration of the skin, is often caused by inflammation, hormonal change or heredity. Inflammation leading to hyperpigmentation can come from prolonged sun exposure, tanning beds, acne, through the improper use of lasers or other injuries to the skin. Hormonallyinduced hyperpigmentation (melasma) appears most often during pregnancy but can occur with any fluctuation in hormones, such as puberty, the use of birth control pills and menopause.

The good news is that with the right combination of professional treatments and protocols and daily care products, we can lift existing hyperpigmentation and inhibit its continual formation.

The most effective way to lift hyperpigmentation is through a multipronged approach. First, we have to inhibit melanogenesis. This is the process that takes place in the skin that is instigated by inflammation or a hormonal fluctuation and results in discoloration on the surface of the skin.

Next, patients must protect themselves from inflammation that causes hyperpigmentation. It is critical that we all use products containing an SPF of 15 or greater daily, even if you work indoors. Look for products that offer both UVA and UVB protection. If you are going to be outside for an extended period of time, remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours. It is especially important to protect our faces from the sun in the winter due

to the white landscape’s reflective nature.

Finally, clinicians need to perform professional treatments on their patients that will exfoliate the hyperpigmented skin and increase cell turnover. I have found that in the majority of cases, blended, superficial chemical peels combined with light therapy are effective in lifting nearly all types of hyperpigmentation. Our peels are gentle and do not further damage the skin. Using stronger peels or other methods of mechanical exfoliation can cause trauma to the skin, leading to inflammation and additional hyperpigmentation. We believe in treating the skin progressively as

opposed to aggressively.

There are several ingredients that are highly effective in correcting hyperpigmentation. It is important to receive a thorough skin analysis and consultation about your condition with a physician or licensed medical or skin care professional to learn which combination of professional treatments and daily care products are right for you.

Phone: 306.972.SKIN (7546)

FineLifestyles REGINA

77

Melanie Wildman President, CEO Weight Loss Forever Ltd. “Mrs. Canada 2011”

Hiding from the camera at family get-togethers this holiday season will leave you with photos of you shielding yourself, but what they won’t shield is how unhappy you are with your situation.

Whether you suffer from health issues—diabetes, high blood pressure, back pain, sleep apnea or depression— or have lost weight only to gain it back again, you are bound to be frustrated and desperate for a solution that works. Instead of making another New Year’s resolution you can’t keep, take control of your health and make a permanent change.

New Year’s Resolution: OUT WITH OBESITY, IN WITH CONFIDENCE Melanie in ‘04 at over 220lbs.

By Alexandra Walld

OUT WITH OBESITY, IN WITH CONFIDENCE

An interior shot of the LIMARP Clinic

If you suffer from obesity, you might be a candidate for the new, innovative program with Weight Loss Forever. Based in Saskatoon, Weight Loss Forever is the only company of its kind in Canada and offers a permanent solution to obesity.

It specializes in a procedure called the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), or the “Sleeve.” Currently the simplest, mosteffective weight loss surgery available, it’s safety and success rates are making it the fastest-growing bariatric surgery in the world.

“Our program offers pre-operative and post-operative care and support, including support groups, patient facilitators and nutritional guidelines. Our team includes nurses, psychologists and nutritionists in order to ensure our patients have the support they need each step of the way,” says Melanie Wildman, CEO of Weight Loss Forever.

Wildman started Weight Loss Forever after having the procedure in April, 2009 and losing over 100 pounds from her highest weight. Melanie chose weight loss surgery after talking with her family about options and heard about the Sleeve from her sisterin-law, Dr. Marla Lujan. As a professor of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University,

Lujan studies women and obesity and was familiar with the procedure and its successful results.

After losing her weight, Melanie became Mrs. Saskatchewan and is now Mrs. Canada, representing our country in the prestigious Mrs. International Pageant this summer.

“It’s incredible what you can achieve when you have the tools you need to succeed,” Wildman says.

From A Doctor’s Perspective Before Weight Loss Forever patients can be approved for the surgery, they receive an in-depth pre-operative information package and are required to attend an information session on the risks and benefits of bariatric procedures. Patients also go through a medical assessment to ensure they’re healthy enough to undergo surgery and must correct any issues before approval.

Doctor Carl le Roux, who practices out of Blairmore Medical Clinic in Saskatoon, first heard about the Sleeve when a patient brought Wildman to an appointment to discuss the possibility of getting the bariatric surgery.

Dr. Liza Pompa

“By the time patients see me, they’re in a high-risk group because of obesity. In my opinion, the surgery is almost lifesaving because of the risk reduction and health benefits,” le Roux says. “Many patients have problems with diabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure or heart disease, but because of the weight loss, those things improve significantly. And the way patients change psychologically is unbelievable.”

At first, le Roux was concerned patients wouldn’t receive proper care in Mexico, but was relieved when he learned the hospital has intensive care. He says every patient he has followed-up with is impressed with the facility and care they received.

“I haven’t had one patient come back with problems yet and they’ve all done really well

FineLifestyles REGINA

79

OUT WITH OBESITY, IN WITH CONFIDENCE

“They both had problems, had to get it reversed and ended up getting sleeves,” the U of S Psychology major says. “Once you get past the thought of going to Mexico for surgery, there’s nothing to be afraid of. The healthcare and surgeon down there were amazing.”

Since the surgery, Lauren has lost 112 pounds, but says the best thing is going to support group meetings and helping newcomers.

“I have answers for people who are wondering because I know how it feels to be completely freaked out and unsure of what you’re getting into. I want to scream from the rooftop every time someone asks me how I lost weight because it completely changed my life.”

Spreading The Word

Lauren before

Lauren today!

with recovery,” he says. “I’m very impressed with the post-operative care and support provided by Weight Loss Forever.”

says. “But then I graduated high school and knew I had to make a change.”

Nineteen-year-old Lauren Johnston had always been the biggest girl in her group of friends. She was only 14 when she tried Herbal Magic and then Weight Watchers with her mom. Neither worked very long, but it didn’t bother her… at first.

Her parents, who had always been supportive, learned about Weight Loss Forever at a trade show. They talked with Melanie, then with each other and decided to approach Lauren. For three months, she researched the Sleeve, unable to find any “horror stories” convincing her not to do it—she found several about the Lap-Band—and decided to do it. So did her mom.

“I went to an all-girls high school in Prince Albert and was sheltered—I didn’t worry about fitting in and buying the right clothes— it wasn’t the focus of every day,” Lauren

Lauren, at 296 pounds, and her mom both got sleeved Jan. 15 in Mexico while another mother/daughter duo had Lap-Band surgeries.

Lauren’s Story

80

FineLifestyles REGINA

The procedure is performed by only a few bariatric surgeons world-wide, including Weight Loss Forever’s chief bariatric surgeon, Dr. Liza Pompa, who was educated at the Mayo clinic in the United States and the European Institute of Telesurgery in Strasbourg, France. As a board-certified bariatric surgeon both the United States and Mexico, and as the director of the LIMARP Surgical Unit in Mexico, Pompa has often been designated as a professor of laparascopic surgery training programs, teaching others novel surgical techniques and performing live exhibition surgeries.

Dr. Pompa will be in Saskatoon December 16 and 17 to speak to local physicians and specialists and will also meet with many Weight Loss Forever patients who have had the procedure. The sessions are free and if you’d like to attend, call Karen at (306) 665-8891.

While the clinic is one of the world’s best, Wildman says it is constantly upgraded to ensure it maintains its high quality of safety and cleanliness and is currently at stage

OUT WITH OBESITY, IN WITH CONFIDENCE

eight of 10 in becoming an International Bariatric Centre of Excellence. There are only 400 facilities around the world that meet the criteria of efficiency, efficacy and safety. Wildman says 95 per cent of United States hospitals and bariatric centres do not meet the criteria and that right now there are no qualifying centres in Canada. They expect to get designation in the Spring.

“The level of care our patients receive is second to none,” Wildman says. “There is no such thing as a doctor on call—they are there every moment and so are the patient facilitators. It’s a very different level of care than you might expect in Canada because we don’t have enough bariatric surgeons in Saskatchewan. We have patients who have waited for seven years on bariatric surgery waiting lists and we simply don’t have enough funding or bariatric surgeons in Canada. The average surgeon in Canada does between 40 and 60 surgeries annually and in a dedicated bariatric clinic in the United States or Mexico, surgeons will do almost that many in a month. They are true specialists in bariatric surgery and that’s why we have so many health professionals that choose to work with us.”

Hands-On Support Karen Valentine, a RN and specialist with the Infection Prevention and Control department at the Royal University Hospital, got sleeved last April and says having a Weight Loss Forever patient facilitator by her side made all the difference.

“At first, I was disappointed I couldn’t find a friend or family member to come with me, but then I found out how helpful it was to have someone who had gone through it because they understand what you’re going through,” Valentine says. “It was so helpful to have a familiar face because it’s a very profound thing to be going for a major surgery so far away from home and your support systems.

To have someone who really intimately un-

derstands what you’re going through and has facilitator training is irreplaceable.”

As a healthcare worker, Valentine was extremely impressed with both the clinic and the high level of care she experienced while there. She says the hospital was beautiful and very well-maintained and that the quality of care from all of the healthcare workers on site was absolutely genuine— they made sure she knew she was their number one priority.

“Being a healthcare worker, I understand all of our healthcare issues—with budget and staffing—and down there, those issues aren’t apparent. The staff was very concerned, not with just my physical health, but with supporting me in every way they could,” Valentine says.

Karen before

“And I know they’ve been very supportive of other patients that way—ensuring their mental state and emotional well-being are a priority. I know Dr. Pompa has worked closely with Melanie to develop comprehensive support services for when patients come back. It’s very holistic care in the very definition of the word and I wouldn’t have done it in any other way.”

Weight Loss Forever 665-8891 or (877) 306-8891 Suite 15 – 901 1st Avenue North www.weightlossforever.ca

Karen before

Karen today!

FineLifestyles REGINA

81

OUT WITH OBESITY, IN WITH CONFIDENCE

A Crowning Achievement Saskatoon Resident Named Mrs. Canada International Melanie Wildman, 38, from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan was crowned Mrs. Canada International this month and will go on to compete for the title of Mrs. International 2011 during the final competition in Chicago, Ill, USA, July 19-23, 2011.

Wildman is an active mother of three children who’s earned many career achievements, including illustrating a 50cent coin for the Royal Canadian Mint and founding Canada’s largest private bariatric company, Weight Loss Forever Ltd. Wildman also is a dedicated volunteer and board member for many organizations including the Investment & Growth Committee with the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce and Camp Hoodoo, a science-based family summer camp.

During her reign as Mrs. Canada International, she will support and promote her platform, Go Red for Women, which supports heart health awareness through the American/Canadian Heart Association.

“Heart Disease is the number one killer of Women in Canada. As a woman who suffered from obesity and struggled with my weight, I am excited to be able to share my story to help others. Being crowned Mrs. Canada International is both an honour and an opportunity to raise awareness of heart disease in women.“ International Pageants, Inc. also supports the National Heart Association’s Go Red for Women program through volunteer and financial support. The Go Red for Women movement is dedicated to fighting heart disease among women.

The Mrs. International Pageant is owned and operated by International Pageants, Inc., which also operates Miss International

and Miss Teen International pageants. It is the only platform-based pageant system dedicated to highlighting women’s accomplishments through community support.

Mrs. International showcases married women 21 to 56 years old and features three

categories of competition, including interview, evening gown and fitness wear.

For more information, visit www.mrsinternational.com.

The TAYLOR DENTURE CLINIC Ltd. HOW CAN IMPLANT-SUPPORTED DENTURES IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE?

t 1SPWJEJOH B TUBCMF GPVOEBUJPO GPS TJHOJmDBOUMZ JNQSPWFE EFOUVSF TUBCJMJUZ t 3FTUPSJOH QSPQFS DIFXJOH BCJMJUZ t *ODSFBTFE TFMG DPOmEFODF t *NQSPWFE DPNGPSU BOE mU t *NQSPWFE CJUJOH QSFTTVSF t 4FDVSJUZ XIJMF FOKPZJOH BMM TQPSUT BOE TPDJBM BDUJWJUJFT

For more information or to book your FREE CONSULTATION, contact The TAYLOR DENTURE CLINIC Ltd.

COMPLETE DENTURE SERVICES AVAILABLE INDIVIDUAL AND PERSONALIZED CARE 4401B Albert St. Regina, Sk.

585-0333 Brian Moynes, DD Licensed Denturist

i8F (6"3"/5&& ZPV MM TNJMF XJUI PVS FYQFSJFODFE QSPGFTTJPOBM TFSWJDF w

decided to give it a try.”

It appears to have worked. Egbeyemi stands tall and has a look of peace and enthusiasm on his face, excited to share his discovery with his clients. “This technology is the future. It allowed me to come to a place of healing without popping pills.”

During brain wave optimization, sensors are placed on the client’s head to read his or her brain wave activity. Using the science of electroencephalography (ECG) the sensors measure the brain wave activity of the client and analyze six different parts of the brain. A report is generated that shows which areas are out of balance and need to be improved.

Using the same non-invasive read-only sensors, the brain waves are converted into a sound which is then played through a pair of headphones. Working like a mirror for the brain to see itself, the brainwaves are brought back to a state of balance. By working through a series of exercises with your mind, you can actually improve the way your mind works.

Mind Body Harmonics Restoring balance the new-fashioned way

BY RYAN HOLOTA Brain wave optimization and brain wave balancing are new technologies that hold incredible promise for those who feel out of balance in their lives. Mind Body Harmonics uses a three-step approach of brain wave optimization, supplements and acupressure to return your mind and body to a state of homeostasis— that is, a balanced position uncluttered by external pressures.

84

FineLifestyles REGINA

Dami Egbeyemi, the founder of Mind Body Harmonics, explains, “A few years ago I was in an unbalanced place. I looked for answers and found that most of the available options were prescription medications. There is certainly a time and place for medicines, but I didn’t want to deal with all of the potential side effects and uncertainty that comes with them. I found a practitioner of brain wave optimization in Calgary and

“It is important to note that we do not diagnose or treat medical problems,” says Egbeyemi, “we simply provide our

PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

clients with an outlet to relieve stress and relax. The goal is to take you to a place of balance using the body’s own natural ability to heal itself. Our clients report better sleep, less feelings of sadness and say that they have been better able to control feelings of anger. It can also be very helpful for those who are dealing with addiction and craving control. For many of these people, their brain is calling out for something to relieve their stress and bring them back to a place of peace.

The brain is still largely a mystery to modern science. I have had clients who are stroke victims recover mobility and there are many reports of those suffering from dementia who improve dramatically.�

Starting in January, Mind Body Harmonics is going to hold presentations showcasing the technology and the way it helps people find a sense of peace and calm in their lives. The events will be held at the company’s office at 2306 9th Avenue North in Regina. There will be limited seating available for these presentations, so Egbeyemi suggests calling in advance and reserving a place. He also welcomes those who are interested in the technology to stop by his office and talk to him at any time during the day. Sessions must be scheduled in advance, but there is always someone available to explain the process and benefits.

More information about Mind Body Harmonics can be found online at www. mindbodyharmonics.ca, or simply by calling Egbeyemi at 306.501.5381.

Dami Egbeyemi Owner/Brain Wave Optimization Trainer Phone: 1.306.501.5381 Email: info@mindbodyharmonics.ca www.mindbodyharmonics.ca

FineLifestyles REGINA

85

VisionCenterDirect.com

4401 Albert St. Regina, Sk. 306.586.3937

86

FineLifestyles REGINA

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Global Eyewear Trends Ryan Horne- Optician VisionCenterDirect.com 4401 Albert Street, Regina 306.586.3937 I have noticed how many more people from Saskatchewan are traveling the world these days, getting out, seeing different cultures and bringing back those experiences.

right now, the comfort zone of the Saskatchewan people is expanding.

They are seeing what others around the globe are wearing and are realizing it is possible here in Regina!

This has translated into our world of eyewear dramatically. Saskatchewan used to seem so sheltered from the outside world. New styles and trends were often slow to make their way here and to be accepted. Now, it seems like we have caught up. Some of the more eccentric styles aren’t so crazy anymore.

Some of the more outrageous colours are now a possibility. People around here are much more open to eyewear that is not so average.

Vision Center Direct has been to the Vision Expos in New York and Las Vegas, bringing you more of the world’s finest and most sought-after eyewear.

With such a variety of trends in style

Lindberg from Denmark carries many rimless, nearly weightless designs that are full of character. Anne et Valentin from France is a collection with lustrous acetates in peculiar, geometric shapes.

Barton Perreira is a Hollywood favorite, providing a more classic look with larger acetate plastics, fine metals, and sunglasses in rich colours. Ă˜rgreen from

Denmark does it all catering to any face size with multi-coloured acetates to very large titaniums in shapes all their own.

Rock Star Baby is from Bon Jovi drummer Tico Torres, who developed an edgy rock and roll-style collection for kids.

I am finding people around here more adventurous and willing to try new and more interesting eyewear. Some warm up to it faster than others, while some are happy to stay the course. In any case, don’t be afraid to try something new—it usually translates into a younger, fresher look.

May your eyewear be full of Joy! Ryan Horne- Optician

Tanning, Esthetics, Hair and Massage &GPKEG /GCFGP ĹŒ %GTVKĹżGF .CUGT 6JGTCRKUV LASER HAIR REMOVAL

;QW OC[ DG UWTRTKUGF VQ NGCTP VJCV XKTVWCNN[ [QWT GPVKTG DQF[ KU EQXGTGF YKVJ JCKT $GECWUG OQUV QH VJKU JCKT KU ĹżPG CPF RCNG KV WUWCNN[ KUPĹ?V XKUKDNG VQ VJG PCMGF G[G DWV YJGP FCTMGT EQCTUGT JCKT CRRGCTU KP RNCEGU YJKEJ OC[ OCMG [QW WPEQOHQTVCDNG ĹŒ NKMG QP VJG HCEG PGEM CDFQOGP DTGCUVU legs or underarms in women or on the shoulders, chest CPF DCEM KP OGP KV OC[ DG VKOG VQ EQPUKFGT NCUGT JCKT TGOQXCN C RGTOCPGPV UQNWVKQP HQT WPYCPVGF JCKT

LASER LIPO – New to Regina!

.CUGT *CKT 4GOQXCN

9G CNN JCXG VJCV QPG CTGC QH QWT DQF[ YG CTG WPJCRR[ with, whether it is the love handle, tummy or virtually any area of the body you may wish to lose. The treatments are non-invasive, relaxing with no side effects or downtime.

'CEJ VTGCVOGPV VCMGU QPN[ C NKVVNG QXGT CP JQWT KP YJKEJ you can see a loss of one half to two inches! As this is a body contouring not a weight loss treatment we are able to target trouble areas which are resistant to exercise and diet alone.

48.1�

39.1�

Before

After

.CUGT .KRQ

Drop in for a free consultation. Seeing is believing!

2336 9th Avenue North, Regina

Tel: (306) 347-7662 ext. 1

Advice from your Optometrist

Dry Eye Syndrome

est ’s New acy Regina ding Pharm n u Compo

Dr. Myles Bokinac- Optometrist Advance Eye Care Center 500-4010 Pasqua St. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.586.7036 www.advanceeyecarecentre.com

Achieve Greater Balance Today! with bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

Dry Eye Syndrome is a common problem for many patients. It is defined as lack of tears on the front surface of the eye. This may be due to lack of production of tears, excessive evaporation of the tears or a tear imbalance. Normal tears are made up of three components: oil, water and mucus. Each of these are produced by different glands on the eye or eyelids and all serve different functions.

Symptoms of dry eye may include: burning, scratchy feeling, redness, watering, or tired eyes.

Dry eyes become more common as we age and women are more commonly affected. Computer use and many medications also tend to further aggravate dry eye. Our Saskatchewan climate also tends to be very dry and this worsens the problem as well. Dry eye may range in severity from mild to severe and treatment of this condition will depend on the severity.

Treatments for dry eyes may include: artificial tear drops, warm compresses to stimulate tear production, eyelid hygiene to reduce inflammation, nutritional supplementation with omega-3’s, punctal plugs to help retain the tears that are produced, or

even prescription medications such as Alrex or Restasis. Since dry eye is a chronic disorder it requires ongoing treatment to ensure success.

Launched in October 2010, Restasis is the newest dry eye therapy available in Canada. It has been used in the U.S. for several years and has been very successful in treating moderate to severe dry eye This is a prescription eyedrop which studies have shown increases tear production. If you suffer from moderate to severe dry eye and are still experiencing symptoms with your current therapy, ask your optometrist if Restasis may be a good option for you.

The optometrists of Advance Eye Care Center are accepting new patients. We offer Saturday and Thursday evening appointments. Call 586-7036 for an appointment.

Hormone replacement therapy can have incredible benefits for menopausal women with the use of natural, healthy supplements derived from plant hormones that are biologically identical to those naturally occurring in the body.

As a specialized compounding pharmacy, we’ll work with you and your doctor to design solutions for restoring your natural balance.

Is BHRT right for you? ® Ask your Medicine Shoppe Compounding Pharmacist today about the benefits of

Jarron Yee, BSP Pharmacist/Owner

FULL SERVICE PHARMACY Â )5(( $FFXĥ3DN %OLVWHU 3DFNDJLQJ Â 0HGLFDWLRQ &RPSRXQGLQJ Â 2VWRP\ 6XSSOLHV Â +RPH +HDOWK &DUH and always Free Delivery!

306-543-5555

2310 - 9th Avenue N | Regina, SK Mon. - Fri.: 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Sat.: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

88

www.medicineshopperegina.ca FineLifestyles REGINA

Your future is at Luther

Your future is All students from kindergarten to grade 8 are welcome atStudent Luther to join the Future Luther Program. Contact

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

Wascana Remedial Massage Centre www.WascanaMassage.com Your Health is in Reliable hands

BodyTalk Holistic Medicine in the Truest Sense of the Word - Body - Mind - Consciousness Certified BodyTalk Practitioners

BowenWork Gentle Touch- Powerful Results Certified BowenWork Practitioners

Open Until 9:00 Weekdays Open Saturdays Ample FREE Parking CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY

585.1824

We welcome you to our Paragon Award-winning clinic

River Heights Shopping Centre 3440 Regina Ave. Regina, Sk. Proud to have been a part of our community for 18 years

Teresa Trakalo Phone: 540-4975

info@reginahomeandpetsitting.com

www.reginahomeandpetsitting.com

Registered Massage Therapists

SERVICES pet feeding and walks experience with animal meds and diabetic shots home security checks bring in mail water plants snow removal (no snow insurance) only pay with it snows lawn care elderly check-ins for your family while you are on holidays bonded and criminal record check COMPLETEDÒPETÒµRSTÒAIDÒCOURSE references on request

While Oxford Learning’s Little Readers® program focuses mainly on reading development, it is a very fun, vibrant place for three-to-six year olds to become skilled, passionate, and excited students. Even the very youngest students become engaged in the learning process, which Klassen credits to the small class size, and the fact that the program feeds into children’s natural curiosity and hunger for learning.

She says that the first thing that most parents notice about the program is the level of energy and enthusiasm.

“Our students are excited about what they are achieving every day. They can’t wait to share their excitement with their parents.

Parents say that it’s often like an overnight transformation. Suddenly, their kids are sounding out words written on the cereal box at the breakfast table, and reading along with their bedtime story,” she says.

Early Reading Program Leads to a Better Head Start Oxford Learning Little Readers® Program Helps Preschoolers Learn to Read Is your three-year old ready to read?

Janet Klassen, Centre Director of Oxford Learning Regina, says yes.

“In terms of reading readiness, research shows that preschoolers’ brains develop quickly. Even very young children are capable of outstanding academic development,” she says.

During the school day hours, the Oxford Learning Centre in Regina is filled with the sounds of preschoolers counting, singing, doing crafts, and learning to read as part of the Little Readers® program.

According to Klassen, the program, which was founded in London, Ontario, is the best available option for area parents who want their children to have a strong reading foundation before they start school.

“Reading is really the critical skill in terms of future schooling and academics. If there is one single skill that we could point to and say, ‘this is the skill to focus on to ensure school success, it’s reading,” she says.

Oxford Learning’s Little Readers® program

is available to children as young as three years old. However, Klassen notes that many parents indicate that their children were showing signs of being ready to read at even younger ages.

“Reading habits actually develop well before children are able to read. Pre-readers are picking up on habits and attitudes about reading from their parents, so it’s important that even before children are able to read, parents are helping to expose them to the written word,” she says.

According to Klassen, there are many different ways that parents can help children develop pre-reading skills, even before the age of three. Going to the library, reading books out loud together, pointing to simple words when reading, and even singing the alphabet song are all great ways to help kids develop a strong reading foundation.

Klassen says that the excitement for learning that kids discover in Little Readers® builds self-confidence so that kids are more willing to try new things both in academic and non-academic settings. It builds a strong foundation that all future learning rests on.

“I love hearing from parents of Little Readers® graduates that their second grader is reading at a sixth grade level, or that their daughter won a reading award at her school,” says Klassen. “I love knowing that the passion for reading that kids discover in Little Readers® continues long after they’ve left the program.”

Because of the individualized nature of our programs, students can register anytime. Little Readers® programs also run throughout the summer. For more information about Oxford Learning’s Little Readers® program, please contact Janet Klassen at Oxford Learning Regina 306.790.2000; regina@oxfordlearning. com

Oxford Learning Centre 203-2595 Quance St E. Regina, SK Phone: 306-790-2000 www.oxfordlearning.com

“Reading-based activities are very important to helping children get motivated and excited about beginning the process of learning to read,” says Klassen.

FineLifestyles REGINA

91

THE GREAT BATE

BY CAROL TODD As winter wraps its chill around us, Canadians, like other folk living in northern climates, lose not only the joys of summer, but also the health benefits that are carried on the rays of the sun, especially vitamin D. We all know vitamins are good for us, right? Or are they? Recently, there have been numerous opinions on the pros and cons of supplements, in general, and the amounts needed, in particular.

Dr. Susan Whiting, Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition at the University of Saskatchewan, is one of Canada’s leading experts in the field of vitamin research and coauthor of a 2003 StatsCan study.

Whiting believes the overall concerns about supplements are overblown.

She points out that stories saying that taking high doses of vitamins cause health problems are based on research using 20 to 30 times the recommended upper levels of dosage, way more than any of us could possibly ingest.

Health Canada describes vitamin D as a nutrient that helps the body use calcium and phosphorous to build and maintain strong bones and teeth. Too little can cause rickets in children and osteomalacia (softening of the bones) or osteoporosis (fragile bones) in adults. The relationship between calcium and vitamin D is the main reason the vitamin is often included along with calcium supplements.

And, recent research has also linked Vitamin D deficiency to a host of serious conditions including cancer, influenza and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

Whiting says Canadians are definitely

deficient in this essential nutrient. The reason has a lot to do with where we live. Humans get most of our Vitamin D from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. “In a perfect world, let’s call it a tropical island, you would get to that [adequate level] just by exposing your skin to the sun,” Whiting says. “But, we’re in Canada and we’re not able to make Vitamin D in our skin for at least six months a year. So, starting now and probably going to about mid to late April, we’re totally dependent on diet to obtain Vitamin D.”

BETTER GRADES!

itÕ s

! y s Ea 1.Enroll now 2.Learn how to study 3.Ace the exams

Small amounts of vitamin D are found in fortified foods, such as milk, margarine, orange juice, yoghurts and some breakfast cereals. Other foods containing vitamin D are oily fish such as sardines, kippers, salmon, pilchards and trout. Meat and eggs also naturally contain some.

The ability of our skin to make vitamin D is even worse for those with dark complexions, because naturally dark skin or even a tanned light skin is the body’s way of guarding against those UV rays. Men, too, seem to be at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency, especially those between the ages of 20 and 39—about seven per cent of this group was considered vitamin D deficient the StatsCan study which Whiting is currently updating for 2011. She recommends that anyone concerned about vitamin levels, speak with a pharmacist about supplements.

Until Whiting, Health Canada and all the others checking into our needs for vitamin D and other supplements have completed their studies, hopefully before another winter, we should all just sit back and relax. Oh, and don’t forget to take a pill.

Call Oxford Learning Today!

Visit oxfordlearning.com for more information.

Higher grades are important. So is higher self-confidence, an active, agile mind and an understanding of how to study, learn and think.

Oxford Learning puts all these outcomes within your child’s reach, with our exclusive cognitive approach to learning.

Regina 306.790.2000 oxfordlearning.com

Expert Advice: Health & Wellness

Skin Rejuvenation Dr. Nicole Mitchelson, DTCM, R. Ac., RMT, B. Sc.

Allied Health Centre University of Regina Phone: 306.337.2643 www.drmitchelson.com Over the past few years, cosmetic acupuncture has attracted attention worldwide, especially in major centres like New York and Los Angeles. It’s no longer just for the rich and famous; now everyone wants it.

increased oxygen) to the skin; t *ODSFBTFE DPMMBHFO QSPEVDUJPO t 5JHIUFS QPSFT BOE CSJHIUFS FZFT t "DOF DPOUSPM

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

In 1996, a report in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture examined 300 cases of people treated with cosmetic acupuncture, and found that 90 percent of those treated experienced marked effects with a single treatment.

Among other things, their skin became more delicate, the elasticity of their facial muscles improved and they developed a ruddier complexion; in other words, they experienced an overall rejuvenation.

On its website, cosmeticacupuncture. ca, the Cosmetic Acupuncture Clinic of Toronto says that acupuncture may take anywhere from five to ten years off your face, can help eliminate fine lines and soften deeper lines, and can minimize dark circles under the eyes, puffy eyes, double chins, sagging skin and drooping eyelids. Other benefits the Toronto clinic lists include: t 3FMBYFE NVTDMF UPOF t *ODSFBTFE DJSDVMBUJPO BOE UIFSFGPSF

t #FUUFS OPVSJTIFE TLJO XIJDI QSPWJEFT a healthier complexion with a natural glow; t 4LJO NPJTUVSJ[FE GSPN UIF JOTJEF which gives rosy cheeks to people with EVMM UJSFE MPPLJOH TLJO It’s often been said that beauty begins on the inside. According to traditional $IJOFTF .FEJDJOF 5$.

UIF TBNF DBO be said of wrinkles and other signs of aging. In my practice at the Allied Health $FOUSF 6OJWFSTJUZ PG 3FHJOB * BEESFTT ways TCM and acupuncture can help patients combat the aging process.

Practitioners of TCM and acupuncture QSPWJEF B TBGF FGGFDUJWF BOE ESVH GSFF alternative treatment that can improve muscle tome of the face and neck.

Acupuncture can tighten pores, improver dermal contraction, and enhance skin elasticity to reduce sighs of aging as it strengthens and stimulates circulation in the face.

6TJOH 5$. BOE BDVQVODUVSF DPNCJOFE with herbal supplements, exercise, and appropriate health care, can help patients look and feel more energetic, vibrant, and healthy. Before using drugs or surgery to improve appearance, consider these natural, safe, and painless alternatives to help your whole body look and feel younger.

For more information on facial rejuvenation, visit my website at www. drmitchelson.com.

Since the beginning of recorded history, humans have been fascinated by what the future may hold. Over the next two issues of Fine Lifestyles, award-winning science fiction author Edward Willett prognosticates what Regina might be like 40 years from now with

POSTCARDS FROM THE FUTURE

REGINA IN 2050 Transportation

The City

Thursday, November 3, 2050

Shopping

Wednesday, November 2, 2050 Dear Laura, Arrived in Regina from Toronto last night on the airship. Very smooth flight, and George and I had a lovely time at the midnight dance in the ballroom, celebrating our 10th anniversary. What a civilized way to travel! Much better than being packed into a metal tube like so many fishbits, even if we could afford the carbon tax to fly in a jet. And I must say I’m glad that old-fashioned postcards have made a comeback. I feel so connected to my grandparents since I took that adult university class and learned handwriting!

Our robo-taxi whisked us downtown in no time, although it seemed to have a little trouble understanding George at first when he told it “Hotel Saskatchewan.”

(Later someone told us he probably put too many syllables into the name.) Very smooth roads! I’ve been reading a lot of historical accounts of Regina (research for my new novel) and they talk a lot about potholes, but of course modern paving materials don’t crack and let in water and are much more flexible than the old asphalt mixes.

I was surprised to see there are still a few roads here dedicated to people who drive their own cars. Pretty deserted, though, except for the occasional antique (which are doubly surprising to see, since of course they’re gas-burners instead of electrics; you have to pay a pretty penny in permits and penalties to get one of those on the road!).

Downtown was unusually congested because the city is converting a bunch of two-way streets into one-way streets.

Supposed to help traffic flow in the end, but right now, it’s a mess. We’ll be taking the high-speed train to Saskatoon in a few days. It’s only an hour trip, but it takes an hour and a half because you have to stop in Chamberlain. I’m looking forward to seeing more of the countryside then.

More later!

Love, Annie

Dear Laura, We had a whirlwind tour of the sights today! Regina is a lovely place, just as you always told us. Very cosmopolitan, but of course that’s true everywhere these days, isn’t it, especially since all those refugees flooded into Canada a few years ago during the Troubles in Europe and the Middle East?

I’m told Regina topped 400,000 last year. Still less than a tenth the size of Toronto, of course, and I had to laugh when the guide on our tour bus boasted about Fiacco Tower, the city’s tallest building.

Tower? It’s only 40 stories! Our condo building is taller than that!

Wascana Lake is just as pretty as you told me, and the Legislative Building is a gem, but the geese are a bit much, aren’t they?

We had a lovely dinner at the new Cree restaurant that’s opened up on Scarth Street not far from the hotel. Regina is world-famous for its First Nations cuisine, of course. (Well, it’s famous for its First Nations everything: 40 years ago the population was 10 percent First Nations, and now it’s more than 30 percent.) The meal was delicious. Tonight I think we’ll go with Persian, though.

All in all, the Queen City is living up to its reputation for being just big enough without being too big, offering everything and yet small enough to get around in easily.

And it has the best water I’ve ever tasted.

Thank nanotechnology for that! All those microscopic robots in the filtration plant, nabbing every molecule that isn’t wanted.

It’s amazing when you think about it.

Got to run. Say hi to Fred for us!

Love, Annie

Dear Laura, We hit the shops today: there must be two dozen mom-and-pop businesses within two blocks of our hotel, all selling unique things designed by the owners that you can’t get anywhere else.

It was a lot different in the old days, I’ve read. On our way through Old Harbour Landing...I’d hoped to actually see a harbour, but there isn’t one; rather odd, isn’t it?—to the big new development further west, we saw a few “big boxes” —isn’t that what they used to call them?—being renovated to accommodate many smaller stores.

Of course the “big boxes” all went away when fabbing really took off. No point in going to a store to buy something mass-produced when you can make it yourself with your home fabricator... well, assuming you can afford the raw materials and the software. All the money now is in designing new products. It’s all about individuality and originality. And there’s lots of originality to be found here, as you’d expect for a world centre of fabbing innovation, ever since those four university students...you know, the “Fab Four”?... built a better fabricator back in 2025. I think it’s funny they demonstrated it by fabbing a better mousetrap. The world has certainly beaten a path to their door!

I bought a dress design for an evening gown I can’t wait to fab when I get home, and George got a hat custom-fabbed while we waited: one with a Saskatchewan Roughrider logo on it. We also had a great time poking around a retro “BrandName” store that specializes in reproductions of all those crazy brand-name items people put so much stock in in the old days: you know, Nike, Gap, Versace. I still remember some of them from when I was a kid.

I’ve given you a hint about what we’re doing tomorrow. Can you guess?

Love, Annie P.S. George asks you to be sure you remember to feed the fish. Otherwise the big one will eat the little ones.

Friday, November 4, 2050

Part 2 of Postcards from the Future will be published in the Spring 2011 edition of Fine Lifestyles Regina.

FineLifestyles REGINA

95

High-quality, handcrafted, Canadian Famed Regina store now offers kitchen cabinets as beautifully made as its furniture

BY RYAN HOLOTA If you have lived in Regina for any length of time, you have undoubtedly heard of Auntie Fanny’s Furniture. This local, family-owned business has developed a reputation as a purveyor of heavenly, handcrafted solid-wood furniture and unique accessories.

In the company’s never-ending quest to provide high-quality, handcrafted Canadian goods to its customers, Fanny’s Furniture has recently launched a new line of home cabinetry. These cabinets are built in the same familyowned workshop as the great furniture they offer, using the same tried-andtrue building methods.

Kitchen cabinets today are not the same products they were even just a few short

96

FineLifestyles REGINA

years ago. Today, most manufacturers build only the cabinet boxes, ordering pre-fabricated doors in standard widths from other businesses to complete the work. At Fanny’s Furniture, Kekuli Bay cabinets are 100 per cent handcrafted in the company’s own workshop, including the doors. Need a 25 or 17 inch cabinet?

It’s no problem for the craftsmen at Kekuli Bay, and there are no additional charges.

Built with care Because Kekuli Bay cabinets are built by the same people who build all of Fanny’s Furniture, you can be sure they are built with care. The craftsmen use the same furniture-quality wood, joinery techniques, and finishing methods to

create their cabinets as they do to build elegant, heirloom-quality furniture.

Kekuli Bay cabinets are readily available in seven species of wood and an impressive number of finishes, although the customization options are limitless.

Do you desire cabinets crafted from Wenge Wood or Walnut? You need only ask.

In-house kitchen design consultant Greg Huber creates custom 3D CAD/ CAM drawings of your dream kitchen so that you can visualize the way the space will look and feel. Better yet, Greg can provide you with more than just cabinets. He has been trained to help you complete your entire project, from flooring to paint to countertops, including stone, concrete and manmade materials.

Working with only seasoned installers and following up with you to ensure that all of the small details are taken care of, the family-like staff at Fanny’s understands how important it is to make sure their customers are fully satisfied. Their goal is to make your experience as painless as possible. As a long-time member of the Regina and Region Homebuilders’ Association and

the Better Business Bureau, Fanny’s furniture knows how to take care of you.

“It’s really all about customer service for us,” says Debra Huber. “We have purposely decided to structure our business in such a way that it allows us to treat our customers like family. We could open a larger store, hire more sales staff and lower our quality, but that’s just not the way we want to do things. Instead, our store is cozy but comfortable, and our staff is extremely knowledgeable. They have been with us for a long time, and they understand our values and the way we want our customers to feel.”

The Auntie Fanny’s story The Fanny’s Furniture story goes all the way back to 1985 when an innocent family vacation sparked the idea of opening a brass and gift store in Regina.

Extremely high levels of customer service led to expansion, and the current location at 1217 Broad Street was opened in 1995.

The business evolved from brass and gifts to wood furniture, and in the years

between, Fanny’s Furniture worked with family members in British Columbia to open Huber’s Heritage Furniture.

Because the same people who owned the retail stores were in charge of the furniture workshop, they could provide the highest-quality solid-wood furniture at reasonable prices. With Gerald Huber, the family even developed its own freight line so it could have total control over the delivery and transportation of its pieces.

Recently, the staff at Fanny’s Furniture sold furniture to the grandson of one of their original customers. When three generations of customers shop at your store, you must be doing something right.

“Once someone becomes a customer at Fanny’s Furniture, we consider them to be a part of the Fanny’s family. It’s not uncommon for clients to come back to the store just to visit with John, Kent, Sandra or Marlin, because we really build a relationship with them,” says Debra Huber. Indeed, it is that type of relationship that led to them developing a line of kitchen cabinets.

“So many of our furniture customers

FineLifestyles REGINA

97

came back to us and said: ‘Where can I get cabinets that are built as well as your furniture?’” Greg Huber, the kitchen design consultant, didn’t have an answer for those customers. “We wanted to do something to fill that gap in the market.”

The answer was Kekuli Bay. Named after the body of water near the Huber’s Heritage Furniture factory, the furniture workshop was tasked with creating a line of cabinets that would please those who had come to expect great quality at affordable prices.

Absolutely beautiful “Our craftsmen already had all the skills, but they had never used them to create cabinets before,” says Debra Huber. Not wanting to experiment with their customers’ kitchens, they began by creating sample pieces in the workshop and then worked with family members. Greg Huber was the first in Regina to have his kitchen done with Kekuli Bay cabinets. “It’s absolutely beautiful,” he said.

More recently, the company has completed another family member’s kitchen. “My sister Charlene has just had her kitchen finished, and it is stunning,” says Greg Huber.

With the completion of its showroom and customer kitchens under construction, Fanny’s Furniture knows that it has a winning product on its hands. Debra Huber adds, “We would really like to invite people to our store to see the quality and value that we offer. Our furniture is the type of furniture that you will pass on to your children and grandchildren someday, but that does not mean that it is expensive.”

“With the addition of Kekuli Bay cabinets,” says Greg Huber, “we can now provide cabinets that match the quality of the furniture that we sell. This opens us up to an entirely new market of people— homebuilders, renovators and design professionals who are searching for solutions for their clients. Of course, we also work with individuals to help them get the kitchen of their dreams.”

Fanny’s Furniture Kekuli Bay Cabinets 1217 Broad St. 545-9818 www.auntiefannys.com www.kekulibaycabinetry.com

Expert Advice: Smart Spaces

finelifestylesregina | house and home

Staying Steady Kim Wellings- Professional Organizer Toll Free: 1.877.822.3911 Phone: 306.662.3911 Cel: 306.662.8744 Email: smartspaces@sasktel.net www.smartspaces.ca Organizing is a learned skill. Truly it is. I know – I’ve seen it, I’ve done it, I’ve taught it. I know what many of you are thinking... I don’t understand. Your life is busy, it’s complex. You have work and kids and community and friends and who is going to pick up milk? And what are we having for supper? And please, just tell me this, where the (insert expletive) are my car keys? I get it. I hear you sistah; In fact, you are singing to the choir.

your neighbour’s daughter who you were supposed to pick up after school, etc. I’ve been known to be the most disorganized organized person you could ever meet.

But imagine, if you will, for a moment, that you had systems in place that worked with the way you and your kids, and your colleagues and your husband (Lord help you) operated and thought.

Imagine a home and/or an office where there was a place for everything and everything in its place. Imagine when you walked through the door you felt this overwhelming sense of “Ahhhh” (the relaxed, breathing out your nose, semi-smile on your face kind of ahhh; not the freaking-out, breathing through clenched teeth, nostrils flared kind of ahhh). Imagine a place where you can find (glory, glory halleluiah!) your car keys every morning!

I a.) Started living in the moment, being conscious of what I was doing when I was doing it. And b.) Set up some systems that I religiously adhered to. I read, I researched, I networked to find how to keep my life, my things and my time working for, not against, me.

For me personally, organization has been both a learned skill and an innate passion. Along with my intrinsic love of order, I was also “blessed” with the planning gene. You would think the organizing gene and the planning gene would complement each other beautifully, right?

Well—actually— wrong. When you’re busy continually planning the future, you often forget the present. You forget, just as an example, your cell phone, eyeglasses, coat, purse,

So, this is where the learned skill part comes into play. A few years back after a particularly stressful morning of frantic dashing, searching, arguing and multitasking, I decided things were going to change.

I am now a believer in these systems.

In fact, I’m such a believer that I’ve become a preacher. As a professional organizer, I derive great pleasure and a sense of true purpose, helping clients sort, purge, containerize and develop individual systems to create order, meet personal and business goals andC live with that sense of “Ahhhhh.” What are M Smart Spaces? They are environments that enable us to live, work and relax at Y our full potential.

world. And sometimes staying steady is all you can ask for.

Kim Wellings is a professional organizer.

Her company Smart Spaces Organization Solutions is based out of Maple Creek and serves southwest Saskatchewan.

Smart Spaces BizCard-Kim-F

We don’t live a magical life of orderCMand organization. My house gets messy, we MY still run behind schedule and if I’ve been at your house recently, chances are I left CY my sunglasses there. But like a homing signal, my Smart Space systems, CMY solutions and designs call me back and give me effective ways to maintain a K steady course in our complex and busy

FineLifestyles REGINA

99

afts

r D r e t in W e y b d o Go Book your installation on all P.V.C. Windows now.

Promotion ends March 15, 2011 FREE ESTIMATES

Our Quality And Service is Clear

SALE

& SAVE H C T A R C S 5%- 25%

Tel: 545-3990 or 1-888-545-3990 410 Quebec Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4R 1K7 www.glacierglass.com

Karin Wees

Cel: 591-5951 email: kwees@sutton.com

Jennifer Welykholowa

GROUP RESULTS REALTY

Cel: 527-2473 email: jwelyk@sutton.com

We are your one stop shop for all your housing needs!

Whether it’s building your dream home, buying an existing house, condo or investment property, or selling your current residence, we can help! We work closely with custom home builders and developers so we can help match you up with the builder that best fits your needs and even help to find you the perfect lot if required!

And the best news is that having us help you purchase a property doesn’t cost you anything!

We take pride in doing what we can to help make the whole process a simple and enjoyable one while making the “right” move for you and your family.

There is nothing more rewarding for us than when we hand over the keys to a new home, knowing it’s the place that many great memories will be made!!

Contact us for a marketing package and more information!

The team dedicated to helping you make the “right” move Check out one of the fabulous projects we are currently working on: The Newhaven Crossing Townhouse Development 1400 McCarthy Blvd (corner of Dewdney & McCarthy next to A.E. Wilson Park) www.newhavencrossing.ca

BY JENNIFER SEMESOCK When it comes to renovations, the experts at Wood Ridge Flooring know that replacing the flooring in your home will make the most dramatic difference at a reasonable cost. Co-owner of Wood Ridge, Erin Capp, states: “Hardwood and ceramic tile are your best options for resale.” Before taking on the huge project of face-lifting your home, knowing what to spend your time and money on to generate the best re-sale value of your home is extremely important.

Wood Ridge is currently working on turning one couple’s Wascana view house into their dream home. Though

102

FineLifestyles REGINA

it’s only a few years old, Janice and Rory Cain wanted to update their flooring to create a more modern and comfortable look. By replacing the builder’s grade carpet and linoleum with hardwood and tile, they were able to create a sellable look that features the couple’s personal style. The hardwood that they used is from the Line Art Collection by Lauzon.

The Line Art collection is the sweet paradox between the warm, natural tough of Lauzon Canadian Hard Maple and a decisively modern and urban look. “It is a unique finishing technique that provides incredibly rich, cuttingedge looks that give a mineral or stone-

like aspect to the wood,” Capp claims.

It looks amazing. Because it is a neutral grey tone that Janice and Rory chose, it will last for years to come.” Though the Cains are not currently selling their home, when the time comes, they will be ready.

Keeping up with the Jones’s Whether you are planning on renovating your house for immediate sale, or simply want to create your dream home, it is good to know what other houses in your

area are doing. “It is important to be creative and be reasonable at the same time,” says Capp. “Do something that your neighbour does not have, but do not go overboard.”

Keeping in mind your personal style and taste, be aware of the fact that when a realtor is selling your house, he has to sell it against the neighbours’ house as well. It has to be better than the neighbours’, but something that future owners can see themselves in.

Resale Mistakes When looking for your dream home, the last thing you want to do is walk into someone else’s home. Home buyers want to be able to see themselves in the house before they buy it. By avoiding investing too much personal style into your big-ticket renovations, your home will attract a wider group of potential buyers.

Capp states: “You need to fairly well

remain neutral if you are planning on re-selling your home. You don’t want to be dramatic.” In terms of flooring she suggests installing a hardwood tone that will go with all types of furniture, such as the browns, greys or light-coloured wood. You can add personal colour accents into your home with cushions, drapery and artwork.

As for tiles, Capp again recommends staying within the neutral colours. Go for a deeper tone, add a little drama with a stone fireplace or unique backsplash, or try custom tile work in the bathroom.

“That,” says Capp, “is going to catch someone’s eye more than dramatic colours.”

Flooring Home owners plan on selling their home at some time or another. If you plan for the eventual re-sale of your home as you are turning it into your dream home, you have a better chance of a successful sale down the road. “Do something that

is useable for everybody and design friendly,” Capp suggests.

Hardwood is generally the most sought-after feature in homes these days. It adds style and elegance, and generally matches any décor you have.

When choosing a hardwood, you want to keep in mind what you expect the wood to look like five years down the road. Maintaining the look of it is as simple as choosing the right product from the very beginning. If you have big animals or small children, the best is to go with a non-coloured wood. “If it gets scratched,” Capp claims, “there’s just a scratch in it, but no colour change.”

Stained woods are generally an oak or maple that is stained on top. The wood underneath is a lighter color, which gives scratches a more visible appearance.

If you are looking at durability of hardwood flooring, Capp suggests their Mirage wood flooring. It is one of the best because it has flexibility in its surface. If you are going to scratch it, it PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

will bend with the pressure without scratching the surface off. Try the new Red Oak Isla from the Mirage Hardwood Stylish Collection. It is a gorgeous pale to light brown tone that will work with almost every piece of furnishing in your home.

Kitchen Makeovers and Quick Bathroom Fixes The big question when deciding to do renovations to your home is: “Where do I start?” To make the biggest impact, you should always start in the kitchen and the bathrooms. They are the biggest selling features of the house, and the easiest place to do a dramatic look without going over budget. “You don’t have to change out your kitchen cabinets,” suggests Capp, “change your flooring and your backsplash, and it will change the entire look of your kitchen.”

In the bathroom, tiles around the vanity and on the floor make an incredible difference.

If it is in your budget, create a custom tile shower. For the same price of purchasing a new tub surround, you can create a personal spa-like feel in your bathroom.

“Changing your flooring makes the biggest difference,” says Capp. Whether the focus is to re-sell your home or just turn it into your dream home, hardwood and tile can go a long way. For more ideas on how to update floors, visit the experts at Wood Ridge Flooring.

Their team of experts will provide the best information and top of the line products to turn any house into a dream home.

Special pricing will remain on Mirage Hardwood and accessories until March 1, 2011. See in store for details.

WoodRidge Flooring 435 Dewdney Ave, Regina, SK. Phone: 306.352.4639

www.northernfireplace.com

824 Fleury Street Regina 306.781.8007

2206 Speers Avenue Saskatoon 306.244.2744

TM

Expert Advice: Mortgages Kent Bittner Owner/Mortgage Broker Dominion Lending Centres Phone: 306.569.7050 kbittner@dominionlending.ca www.kentbittner.ca As 2010 comes to an end, Canadians are exposed to some of the lowest borrowing rates in history. Money is cheap! Rates on fixed rate mortgages are still below four per cent and variable rate mortgage are as low as 2.25 per cent. With the high cost of holiday giftbuying and entertaining, this may be the perfect time to end 2010 with a fresh start for 2011. Consider refinancing your mortgage and freeing up some money to pay off those high-interest credit cards and consumer loans potentially accumulated over the holiday season.

You will likely find that taking equity out of your home to pay off high-interest debt associated with credit card balances or loans can put more money in your bank account each month. Since interest rates are still near historic lows, switching to a lower rate may save you a lot of money – possibly thousands of dollars per year. There are penalties for paying your mortgage loan out prior to renewal, but these could be offset by the extra money you could acquire through a refinance. With access to more money, you will be better able to manage your debt.

Refinancing your mortgage and taking out some existing equity could also enable you to make some investments, go on vacation, do some renovations or even invest in your children’s education. Keep in mind, however, that by refinancing you may extend the time it will take to pay off your mortgage.

That said, there are many ways to pay down your mortgage sooner to save you thousands of dollars in interest. Most mortgage products, for instance, include

prepayment privileges that enable you to pay up to 20 per cent of the principal (the true value of your mortgage minus the interest payments) per calendar year. This will also help reduce your amortization period (the length of your mortgage), which, in turn, saves you money.

Take the time to thoroughly research your options through a mortgage professional rather than simply signing renewal offers received from your bank, credit union or other lender. This could end up saving you thousands of dollars per year in interest. Simply by shopping your mortgage with a qualified mortgage professional, you can access

the banks as well as other lenders that you may not have considered, but which can often offer interest rate specials or other attractive terms.

By refinancing now and paying off your debt, you can put yourself and your family in a better financial position for 2011 and beyond. It’s very important to not rack up your credit cards after refinancing, however, so set your goals and budgets, and stick to them!

Kent Bittner Kent BrokerBittner / Owner Tel: 306.569.7050 Broker / Owner Tel: 306.569.7050 www.kentbittner.ca www.kentbittner.ca

Dominion Lending Centres – Canadian Mortgage Network Independently & Operated Dominion Lending Centres Owned – Canadian Mortgage Network Independently Owned & Operated

106

FineLifestyles REGINA

on Snowmobiles

BY LINDA EPSTEIN It is a crisp sunny January day in Saskatchewan. The broad blue sky and wide-open landscape lifts your mood.

Suddenly, the sound of a snowmobile pierces your reverie…Wait a minute!

It’s not one snowmobile, nor even two. It is a caravan of 10 snowmobiles cutting across the white canvas— 10 snowmobiles on a mission; ten snowmobilers out to raise awareness, to listen to those touched by disease, and to raise funds to help create a future without breast cancer.

Undetected breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canadian women and the second most common cause of cancer death in women. Through the dedication and fundraising efforts of dedicated organizations this is changing.

Ten years ago, two friends—one a breast cancer survivor, both with snowmobiles—decided to take action.

Together they initiated Prairie Women On Snowmobiles (PWOS). The goal: to set up annual snowmobile rides, called Missions, across Saskatchewan to raise awareness and funding for breast cancer research. Over the first 10 Missions, PWOS has raised more than $1.4 million with 100 per cent going to breast cancer research.

PWOS has won the prestigious Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association’s (SSA) President’s Award, presented for Outstanding Contribution To The Development Of Snowmobiling In Saskatchewan and was inducted into the 2008-2009 International Snowmobile Hall of Fame in recognition

of their contribution to snowmobiling.

Daphne Wickstrom, PWOS president, was also awarded the 2007/2008 Outstanding Volunteer Snowmobiler of the Year award.

Each Mission consists of a cavalcade of ten women volunteer snowmobilers, members of PWOS, chosen to travel across Saskatchewan, through more than 30 Saskatchewan cities and towns in eight days covering approximately 1,800 kilometres.

Riders from 19 years of age to devoted grandparents apply annually for a spot as an official mission core rider. Each candidate must own her sled and be able to ride on a variety of terrains more than 200 kilometres per day. She is also required to raise a minimum of $3,000

FineLifestyles REGINA

107

in paid donations before the ride and should be able to speak in public about breast cancer.

At every stop, breast cancer survivors are recognized through a pin ceremony.

The pin represents the struggle, courage and hope that a cancer survivor goes through every day. Individuals and groups are encouraged to join in the ride as the convoy passes through a community and to dig as deeply as possible to help eliminate breast cancer.

The experience is an emotional roller coaster, according to Shannon Scott of Regina. She was six years old, and her sister seven months, when their mother passed away from cancer. Becoming a core rider in 2006, and PWOS treasurer for four years, was her way of thanking her father for his support over the years.

She tells the story of one woman who was reluctant to step forward at a pin

ceremony. She had just been diagnosed and hadn’t told anyone in her community yet and wasn’t sure if she was going to tell. She and Shannon cried together and held each other. The story still brings Shannon to tears. “You meet so many new friends along the ride,” she says. Often they stay in touch after the tour. She and husband Nelson of NLS Welding and Contracting are ongoing sponsors.

the Province.

In fact, the entire venture succeeds because PWOS members—some snowmobilers, some not—believe in the cause and dedicate their time, resources and sleds in whatever way is needed. There are no paid employees, no organizational expenses.

The riders are also tough. “If the temperature with the wind chill reaches close to minus 40 or lower, we will not ride,” says Scott, “[but] there are lots of days [when riders have ridden] in the minus 30s.”

Mission 2011 - what a winter this will be This year, the Mission runs from January 28 to February 4 through many small and medium communities throughout

The 10 Core Riders—nine women and one man—are passionate, active and involved. They love snowmobiling and most are linked to the cause. Many of the core riders have lost family to cancer, or have family members currently battling the disease. They choose to take the positive approach, and to do something about it.

Having a dedicated support crew helps. The pit crew looks after the maintenance of the sleds throughout the ride, and takes turns riding along if a sled happens to break down on the trails. A semi with a trailer is available in the event that there is not enough snow to ride or the weather is too cold.

The riders are also accompanied by the executive, who ride in a fifteenpassenger van with an enclosed cargo trailer to hold luggage and supplies required for the ride. If the sleds are loaded on the trailer, the riders ride in the van.

The van is a mini control centre.

Phone calls continuously confirm times and areas of upcoming stops for snowmobile leaders. Donation money is counted from the previous stop. It’s a very busy undertaking, but that makes those involved all the more grateful.

“Being part of this organization is emotionally rewarding, a feeling that cannot be put into words,” Wickstrom says.

“It is a dream come true to be chosen to ride with the PWOS,” says rider Barb Batdorf of Meadow Lake. “My mission is to make a difference and help create a future without breast cancer for the generations to come.”

Martensville rider Gerri Sametts adds: “PWOS is a fantastic organization and the executive deserves a huge round of applause for the time and effort that they put into this mission every year. I am confident that once a cure is found for one type of cancer, other cures will soon follow.”

2011 Mission Route Day 1 Friday, January 28 Meadow Lake, South Bay, Edam, Meota, North Battleford Day 2 Saturday, January 29 North Battleford, Wilkie, Biggar, Asquith, Martensville Day 3 Sunday, January 30 Martensville, Waldheim, Blaine Lake, Shellbrook, Christopher Lake Day 4 Monday, January 31 Christopher Lake, Birch Hills, Tisdale, Star City, Naicam Day 5 Tuesday, February 1 Naicam, Watson, Humboldt, Lanigan, Raymore Day 6 Wednesday, February 2 Raymore, Wynyard, Wadena, Rose Valley, Kelvington Day 7 Thursday, February 3 Kelvington, Invermay, Sheho, Yorkton, Canora Day 8 Friday, February 4 Canora, Buchanan, Preeceville, Hudson Bay

(Left to Right) Shannon Scott and Rhonda Dressler (dark hair) from Regina rode in the 2006 Mission.

(Left to Right) 2009 Mission Gerri Moeller, Meadow Lake, Jaime Abel-Fleischhacker, Fulda Donna Kirk, Watrous, Leslie Boulet, Arcola, Brenda Zimmer, Muenster (back), Jennifer Maleschuk, Wadena (sitting), Ruth Lockert, Sedley, Shelley Bernauer, LeRoy (back), Lisa Schick (kneeling), Cassandra Boen, Hudson Bay

Why Beam?

2703 Avonhurst Drive Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.525.0916

Superior cleaning. Healthier living.

ULTRA AIR CLEANING PACKAGE

The Best Selling Brand in Canada!

Powerful Units with high suction to clean 99.9% of dirt, dust & alergens!

For serious bare floor cleaners!

• 30’ crushproof air hose • Tools with lights • The handle mounted switch allows you to turn the vacuum power on and off with the flick of a switch.

Best Tools and Best Accessories in the market!

BEAM RUGMASTER ELECTRIC CLEANING PACKAGE

The Largest Dealer Network of Central Vacuum Experts at your Service!

All Beam units feature GoreTM Filters!

Self Cleaning Filter

Power & Great Value!

• Beam Progression Handle • Standard tool set • 30’ crushproof hose with 3-way switch(turns power brush on and off at your fingertips)

GoreTM Filters efficiently clean 99.9% of the air eliminating the need to exhaust the unit.

GoreTM Filters efficiently clean 99.9% of the air eliminating the need to exhaust the unit.

Our dirt recepticle is infused with the antimicrobial agent AlphaSan®. * Serenity models.

Utility Valve so you can easliy connect and clean up your vehicle and garage!

SOLAIRE CLEANING PACKAGE Solaire is our step up into combination cleaning!

• Solaire brush is great for carpeted floors • The SUMO oversized handle, wands and tools give you the maximum clean efficiency

OUR BEST!

BEAM

CLEANING PACKAGE

Our best combination cleaning powerteam is known simply as the Q! • Designed to be a best cleaner in the industry, and to do it all while being the quitest brush on the market.

• Concealed cord at the handle end means no hanging cord to vacuum over, or to get in the way • Tools with lights

2703 Avonhurst Drive Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.525.0916

EXCLUSIVE 7 YEAR MOTOR WARRANTY! UltraOneTM

Superior handling and pinpoint maneuverability.

Ergorapido TM 2-in-1 So light, you won’t even know it’s there

VersatilityTM

Easy cleaning Floor to Ceiling. TM

Products also available for stone, tile & laminate Hardwood Floor Mop A premium spray mop combo, includes Microfiber Mop and Bona Hardwood Refill Cartridge all in one!

Quick, easy to use, and leaves no dulling residue.

Microfiber Dusting Pad

Reaches wherever dust settles. Used with Bona Floor Mops on both hardwood and stone, tile, and laminate floors. “Super Electrostatic Action” Hardwood Floor attracts and lifts dust, pet hair, microparticles, and Cleaner (3.79L) common household allergens from your floors’ surface.

Same great Bona Hardwood Floor Microfiber Cleaning Cleaner in an economy size. Unlike all-purpose Picks up moisture and dirt, leaving cleaners, will not dull floors clean - with no dulling your floor’s finish or scratches. Use dry to attract dirt, leave oily residue. microparticles, and common Waterborne, non-toxic, household allergens. Use wet with and environmentally Bona cleaners for effective, non-toxic responsible. cleaning. Machine washable up to 300 times.

Pad

Portraits of love Nikki Jacquin’s paintings capture beloved personalities, memories and places—not just appearances

BY EDWARD WILLETT Family love is the warm, beating heart of Nikki Jacquin’s paintings.

That’s not surprising: she comes from a family of artists, she began her career painting her own family, and now she paints other people’s families, striving to capture in paint more than just likenesses of her subjects, but also personalities, lifestyles and memories.

Nikki’s mother provided many opportunities for creative development and Nikki and her brother painted as children for enjoyment. Her greatgrandparents once owned a fan shop in Paris: her great-grandfather created the intricate wooden handles and her greatgrandmother painted the scenes on the fans.

Nikki began selling sketches and paintings when she was 16, but it wasn’t until she had a family of her own that someone in an art guild gave her the excellent piece of advice that eventually turned her talent into a business: “To paint what I knew and loved.” For Nikki, “that was my children.”

112

FineLifestyles REGINA

When other people saw her portraits of her own children, they asked if she would also paint theirs. She realized portrait painting was something she could do at home. “A happy happenstance,” she calls it. What began as a part-time business in 1989 blossomed into today’s full-time business, Nikki’s Portraits of Childhood, in 1995.

Nikki first talks with the clients, either in person (for local clients) or over the phone (for clients from a distance), and then looks at photos, whether in albums or online, relying on the family to tell her who they would like to have painted, and help her select the photos most representative of their expressions.

Next, she looks for a “story setting,” a

place the family has spent time together.

She may take people from several different pictures, change their clothes, and place them in the setting together.

“It takes a little bit of faith on people’s part,” she admits, “but they’re always so thrilled in the end.”

Many other portrait services will only copy a single photo. But her method allows her to do meaningful things like place someone who is deceased into a family group photo they weren’t originally part of.

For one family, she recalls, she created an image of their father as a child and his mother walking toward the farm garden where they worked together, a story he often liked to tell. All she had to

PHOTOS BY MELISSA CHAPMAN

Things to consider when selecting an artist to paint a commissioned portrait: t$IFDL UIF BSUJTU T D W 8IBU experience, awards, or solo shows has he or she had? t *T UIF BSUJTU XPSLJOH GVMM UJNF PS B hobbyist? How long has the artist specialized in portrait painting? t*T UIF BSUJTU XJMMJOH UP XPSL GSPN a personal sitting as well as from photos? This shows a breadth of skill level.

work from for the setting was an aerial photograph of the farm: from that, she recreated the farm as seen from ground level. The garden she had to “completely invent,� she says, but in the end “they were amazed to see their familiar story captured in paint.�

t%PFT UIF BSUJTU NFSFMZ DPQZ POF QIPUP or is he or she capable of creating a new composition from several images?

And that, ultimately, is Nikki’s goal. “I love to create something they don’t already have in a photo, and to see the response when it’s all done.�

t*T UIF BSUJTU MPDBM 8F XBOU UP support our local economy, and buying local art is one way to do that.

Those responses are often heartfelt.

Cheryl Spencer wrote, “Your portraits truly touched us and reflected the deep love we have for our six-month-old daughter...we know that a portrait by you will enable us to revisit the wonder that she shares with us now as she is discovering the world for the first time.�

Rick and Michelle Koshinsky wrote, “We can’t thank you enough for the beautiful picture you did of our children.

It’s a time in their childhood that we will cherish forever and so will their children, because of the timeless treasure you’ve created for our family.�

Nikki’s work comes with archival framing by Bill Hodges to ensure it can last for decades precisely because she knows her paintings may well be passed down within families for generations... capturing beloved memories, places

t%PFT UIF BSUJTU XPSL JO B TUZMF ZPV prefer? (i.e., Classical, Impressionistic, Abstract.)

and people in a way no other medium can.

t8JMM UIF BSUJTU TJHO IJT PS IFS XPSL BOE include a biography and c.v.?

Although there is typically a six-to12-month waiting period for portraits, Nikki sells gift cards year round, and through the end of December, she’s offering a $100 discount on gift cards of $500 or more. She will also include a poem stating the intent of the gift: the occasion and who will be painted. It makes a great Christmas present! Nikki also welcomes your corporate portrait commissions.

t%PFT UIF BSUJTU VTF POMZ BSDIJWBM materials both in the painting and framing? Your painting will be an heirloom passed down in the family.

Materials must be able to stand the test of time.

Nikki’s Portraits of Childhood 306-775-0925 Toll-free: 1-877-335-7655 artist@nikkisportraits.com www.nikkisportraits.com

t8JMM UIF BSUJTU NFFU XJUI ZPV personally to learn about your intent for the portrait and to see the personal context and environment of the subject? A portrait should be a joint project. t8JMM UIF BSUJTU NBLF NJOPS adjustments or is the work on a buy-as-is arrangement? t8JMM UIF BSUJTU QSPWJEF DVTUPNFS referrals upon request?

FineLifestyles REGINA

113

Designing, redesigning or renovating an interior space often involves a significant investment of time, money and effort. Having an interior designer working alongside is the best way to ensure you get the most value for your investment.

Having a “dream team� on board will give you the peace of mind and a succesful completion of your project.

Book a consultation today for all your home building or renovating needs and inquiries. CK ONE Design and Consulting specializes in interior and exterior spaces from the planning stage to the completion!

CK One Design & Consulting Corrie Krzysik Phone: 306.351.8425 Email: corrie@ckonedesign.com Check out our new website at www.ckonedesign.com- Launching early 2011

NOW PRESELLING

Creating a golf course community lifestyle

BY JENNIFER SEMESOCK Just five minutes out of Regina, many people are finding their dream lifestyle: spacious lots and the feel of small-town community living with a backdrop of one of Saskatchewan’s most beautiful golf courses. Aspen Village Properties in Emerald Park/White City has created a community based around its country club and golf course. With a growth in the commercial and residential properties in this community, there is more opportunity than ever for people to make the move outside of the city.

Golf and country club The Aspen Links Country Club is a 20,000 square foot full banquet facility, located in the heart of the Emerald Park/White City community. It plays host to banquets, weddings, receptions and golf tournaments.

The country club is a great place to entertain your family with a top quality meal. It is no wonder families enjoy the specialties at Aspen; the club won the Regina Chamber of Commerce Business to Business Expo 2007 Food Show award for the best food in Regina, yet the atmosphere is casual and inviting. “We have some of the finest chefs around,” says Blair Arn, Chief Operating Officer of Aspen Links. With a diverse menu from sandwiches and burgers to steaks and seafood, the country club restaurant offers a dining experience for the whole family.

The Aspen Links golf course has much

116

FineLifestyles REGINA

to boast of as well. It is an 18-hole championship course designed by the world class designer Cornish & Robinson.

At 6950 yards, the par 73 course is one of the longest in Saskatchewan and this challenging venue has been awarded by Score Magazine for the 13th hole being the second best hole in Saskatchewan in 2007.

N

1 3

8A

EM

ER

AL

D

PA R

K

PL

8

5

6

FAIRWAY

AC E

4

7

ROAD

2

CLUBHOUSE

The Development has a five-year plan as well. “We hope to host a CPGA event and also to do townhouses off of the 1st hole,” Arn explains, “and, of course, to continue with housing developments around the 16th, 17th and 18th holes.”

RO AD

ST WIE

9 10 11 15

12 13

14

16 17 18

As of January 1, 2011, there will be three new homes by Aspen Village available for purchase, one at 1355 square feet, one at 1525 square feet, and another at 1810 square feet. For more information on these homes, or Aspen Village Properties, visit their website at www. aspenvillage.ca .

19 20

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

21 T IES

23

W

22 24

25

new condominium complex going up with views of the beautiful 13th hole.

Also, a plan to extend the country club’s season to the entire year is in the works, with the goal of giving the community more use of the building’s amenities.

26 27 28 29 30 33

E AC

1

34

3

35 6

4

PA R

39

37

5

K

36

2

RO AD

32

PL

31

43

ER EM

40 41

AL

D

38

42

Lots and town homes

the largest residential lots available in community,” states Jahnke. After Available Golf CoursetheLots in Emerald Park Aspen Village Properties in known for choosing a lot, you can decide whether selling golf lifestyle community living. you want a builder to create your home “Emerald Park/White City is very or have Aspen Village create a concept community-oriented,” says Greg Jahnke, for you. They even provide the option of owner of Aspen Links Country Club. creating an engineered home for your “People want to come here for our lot lifestyle. For those interested in condo sizes and small-town feel. The smallest living, Aspen Village is now appealing to lots are 60 by 150 feet, and the pie lots that market as well. Arn states: “We are are approximately three quarters of an in the process of pre-selling our town acre. The lot prices are comparable to homes at McKenzie Pointe.” Attractively the prices you see in the city, except priced, these two-story luxury town they come with more space, a view of homes will be fast to sell. the golf course and, at this time, a fiveyear membership to the country club.

More to come “We currently have fifty lots available, many of which are walkouts on the 18th hole of the golf course. These are

The future for the community of Emerald Park/White City looks bright.

For the 2011/2012 year, there will be a

Aspen Village Properties

Aspen Village Properties Ltd. 310 Emerald Park Road Emerald Park, Sk. Phone: 306.539.1027

FineLifestyles REGINA

117

Trust Our Team for Clean

Merry Maids is the largest maid cleaning company in the world. All of our cleaning products are biodegradable and non-carcinogenic. Merry Maids also offers a gift certificate program for new and existing customers. Give us a call today to find out more information.

• Screened, trained teams • Reliable service • Satisfaction guaranteed • Customized to meet your needs

• Bonded, insured for your protection • Equipment, supplies provided • Free, on-site consultation • Credit cards accepted

240 12th Avenue East Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.352.6243 Email: merrymaids@sasktel.net www.merrymaids.ca

Start To Finish Construction Commerical & Residential, Electrical & Plumbing

Our addition started out as a dream, and Start To Finish Construction turned it into reality. We found the crew to be friendly, knowledgeable and easy to work with. We have already recommended them to others!

Mike & Carol

Call 531-4438 Safety is not a job. It’s a way of life!

INTERIORS p ,JUDIFO #BUISPPN p #BTFNFOU 3FQMBDFNFOU p #BTFNFOU 'JOJTIJOH p 1BJOUJOH BOE 5SJN p $FJMJOHT p 'MPPSJOH p 8BMM #SBDJOH p %SZXBMM EXTERIORS p /FX .BTPOSZ p .BTPOSZ 3FTUPSBUJPO p 3PPÙOH p 4JEJOH p 'FODJOH p %FDLT p (BSBHFT

PARKLAND COVERS FLOORS AND

NOW, WINDOWS

BY AMY NELSON-MILE After nearly 30 years of providing great products and exceptional customer service, Parkland Carpet One has moved into an airy, spacious new location at 1600 8th Avenue (next to Western Cycle on 8th Avenue).

Robert Grain has been manager of Parkland Carpet One since the founder retired 11 years ago. Grain explains that Carpet One is not a franchise, it is a cooperative owned by over 1,000 members based in Canada and the US. “Parkland Carpet One is part of the world’s largest floor covering co-operative,” he says.

“One little store couldn’t bring the variety of materials that we do. We bring in the top styles from all the leading manufacturers at very reasonable prices. And we’re still locally-owned, to serve you with a local touch.”

Parkland Carpet One carries many items in addition to the numerous varieties of carpets. They have hardwood, laminate, vinyl and Ceramic tile—any kind of flooring that you could want, you can find in

their store.

“The new store will have the largest selection of samples in city,” Grain adds.

For the past 15 years they’ve also carried many kinds of window coverings. Now that Parkland Carpet One has moved, Grain says, they are taking the opportunity to enhance their window coverings area. They now have a staff person who devotes her time exclusively to working with window coverings.

Nancy Mercer is the new Window Fashions Consultant for Parkland Carpet One. Mercer has extensive experience to offer the customers; she has over 25 years in the business. She loves to help clients with making sound choices for windows.

“I help them with the decision making process” she says. “Do they want windows that provide more privacy; that block out light; that make a fashion statement?” She takes into consideration whether they are trying to make a room look larger; the shape and size of the

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAL FEHR

rooms; whether they have children or pets. She also works with difficult-to-fit windows.

The window coverings that Parkland Carpet One carries are very well-known, trusted product names. They include such brands as HunterDouglas, ShadeO-Matic, and Jackson.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN FULTON

120

FineLifestyles REGINA

Both Grain and Mercer are displaying these wonderful products in the new store. With 13,000 square feet, there will be plenty of room to display both the flooring and the window coverings. “The new store has displays of almost every product,” Mercer says.

The window covering displays are striking. Grain points out the store will be fresh, bright and clean. Mercer adds: “The displays are on full-sized windows with natural light.

right size.

Parkland Carpet One also offers professional installation of all the products they sell.

Grain notes that Parkland Carpet One will tackle any size of project and will devote the same care and attention to it, no matter what the size. “We pride ourselves on giving the personal touch to all our customers,” he says.

“We hope to see all of you—past, present and future—soon. I would like to invite everyone down to see our new store, to meet Nancy, and to browse a bit. It’s a wonderful location for all your on going flooring and window covering needs, I’m looking forward to welcoming you there!”

Grain says that although the physical environment of the new store does provide everyone with the beginning of a wonderful shopping experience from the moment they walk in the door, it won’t stop there. Parkland Carpet One staff members are friendly and highly trained.

At Parkland Carpet One, customers have always been able to count on consistently positive treatment from the staff, and that certainly will continue. Consultants greet customers promptly and courteously and immediately learn what they can do to help the customers with their shopping experience.

Whether it is direction to appropriate products to browse through or more focused advice in choosing material, Parkland Carpet One staff can provide it.

Grain explains that as a member of the Carpet One co-operative, “our staff have the opportunity to train extensively. We encourage it, because a staff that has ongoing training is a staff that can provide better customer service. The training available ranges from online courses to courses offered through Carpet One’s traveling university. Sales people learn the details of the different kinds of products and services; it’s very diverse.”

As well as the services that the in-store staff offers, there are on-site services.

Mercer, for example, offers home consultations. She will visit customers’ homes with samples and help them choose the product, the colour and the design best suited to their window. Finally, she measures to ensure that they get exactly the

For more information on Parkland Carpet One, go to www.carpetone.com 1600 - 8th Avenue Regina 306-525-9125

FineLifestyles REGINA

121

Seniors... Engaged in LIVING • 123 life-lease suites with 100% guaranteed buyback • Dining room meals • Weekly housekeeping & linen service • Personal emergency response system • Full kitchen in every suite • Balcony on every suite • Licensed Personal Care Home on-site • Home support services available • Wellness centre • Fitness room • Spiritual support • Recreation program • Family room, lounge & library with internet • Smoke free property • Pet friendly • Concrete hi-rise with three elevators

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

1150 Broadway Avenue Regina, SK Ph: (306) 564-1200 www.lutherancaresociety.ca

352-3030 2100A Dewdney Ave.

www.radiocentre.ca

“We Take Pride in our Workmanship”

Wiens Stucco Wire Ltd.

Cocoon in Style: Casa Decor

By Karen Anderson As the old song says, “Baby it’s cold outside”.

During the winter months, being inside is a necessity. Make your home décor the perfect retreat by combining warmth and beauty in your surroundings. You can do this by greeting yourself with les objets that bring you joy, cozy furniture that envelops you…and colour palettes that conjure up warmth.

“We see winter as an opportunity to enjoy your home in a cozy new way.”

A store that brings style and comfort for the season is Regina’s Casa Decor.

Located at 2176 Seventh Avenue in Regina’s storied warehouse district, Casa Decor works with you to bring warmth to your home beyond the holidays and throughout the entire winter. Coowner, Arlene Wolbaum says, “Some people see winter as an obstacle to ‘get through’…whereas we see winter as an opportunity to enjoy your home in a cozy new way.”

Ring in the Bling With winter, comes more darkness; however, smart home décor can help make up for it. “One of the ideas we recommend is making your home sparkle this winter,” says Arlene.

“Sparkling objects bring light and energy to your space…and let’s face it, the lack of natural light during winter affects us all…but a bit of bling can

uplift an entire room.” Casa Decor has varying pieces along this theme, from table accents and mantle pieces to mirrored occasional tables.

Casa Decor Casa Decor is the home décor store that calls itself “transitional to contemporary.” Co-owners Arlene and Tim Wolbaum watch trends in Europe and North America carefully and make sure the store selection reflects that.

Arlene elaborates, “Everyone who comes in our store finds something they love and because we carry limited quantities of each item you know not everyone in town will have it… it will instantly become a comment piece.” From distinct accent items and furniture to in-home water features, the store holds a special place in the Regina home décor market.

Jewellery Jewellery For For Tuesdays Tuesdays

7 Cozy 7 Cozy TipsTips

CasaCasa Decor Decor also carries also carries jewellery jewellery fromfrom Regina’s Regina’s own own DL Jewellery DL Jewellery as well as well as as Wings Wings & a &Prayer a Prayer and and manymany otherother Canadian Canadian companies companies such such as Myka. as Myka.

“Jewellery “Jewellery can also can also brighten brighten up aup daya day without without beingbeing tied to tieda to special a special event,” event,” adds adds Arlene.

Arlene.

“Sometimes, “Sometimes, just the just fact the fact that it’s thatTuesday it’s Tuesday was one wasperson’s one person’s excuse excuse to come to come in and in treat and treat herself!” herself!”

SmallSmall changes changes in your in your décordécor can also can also bringbring the warmth the warmth into your into your home, home, take take a look a look at these at these ideasideas offered offered up byupCasa

by Casa Decor: Decor:

All All thatthat glitters… glitters… is Thomas is Thomas Sabo Sabo

EachEach turn turn in the in store the store holdsholds a new a new experience, experience, something something beautiful beautiful to to pick pick up and up and turn turn to your to your shopping shopping companion companion and and say, say, “What “What do you do you think?” think?”

As aAsresult, a result, CasaCasa Decor Decor has has become become extremely extremely popular popular for couples for couples and and homeowners. homeowners.

Arlene Arlene explains, explains, “Shopping “Shopping has has become become the the new new entertainment entertainment for couples for couples and friends. and friends.

We understand We understand that…so that…so we make we make our our storestore a relaxed a relaxed atmosphere, atmosphere, with with no- nopressure pressure selling. selling.

It’s fun It’s and fun beautiful and beautiful to shop to shop here.”here.”

Throws: Throws: Throw Throw warmwarm quiltsquilts or down or down throws throws over over chairschairs and and sofas,sofas, another another level level of warmth of warmth invites invites you to you sittodown sit down and be andpart be of part theofscene. the scene.

Colour: Colour: Additions Additions of colour of colour throughout throughout

your your home—such home—such as splashes as splashes of reds, of reds, oranges oranges and yellows and yellows fromfrom art, pillows art, pillows or or new new accents—can accents—can resuscitate resuscitate a dreary a dreary Thomas Thomas SaboSabo jewellery jewellery sparkles sparkles bright bright winter winter day. day. this this winter. winter.

As the As official the official Thomas Thomas SaboSabo Partner Partner in Regina, in Regina, CasaCasa Decor Decor is is Candle Candle It: Candles It: Candles can warm can warm up a house up a house pleased pleased to carry to carry the exclusive the exclusive jewellery jewellery and provide and provide an intimacy an intimacy that you that can’t you can’t line that line that is so ispopular so popular in Europe in Europe and and get inget summer. in summer.

TakeTake advantage advantage of it.of it. catching catching on like on like wild wild fire in fire North in North America.

America.

“If anyone “If anyone travels, travels, they they comecome Fire from Fire from Ice: If Ice: you If have you have a fireplace, a fireplace, homehome with with Thomas Thomas SaboSabo envy,” envy,” Arlene Arlene placeplace your your sofa and sofachairs and chairs closercloser to make to make says laughing, says laughing, “…our “…our customers customers are soare so the most the most of it.of Add it. Add accent accent itemsitems on the on the glad they glad they can get canitget here. it here.

Couples Couples buy itbuy it mantle mantle that you that enjoy you enjoy looking looking at. at. as gifts as for giftseach for each otherother or as or a celebration as a celebration for aforpromotion a promotion or a orspecial a special event.” event.”

Add Add lighting: lighting: To overcome To overcome the long the long The The storestore boastsboasts an extensive an extensive selection selection winter winter days,days, add extra add extra lamps—instead lamps—instead of charms of charms and and jewellery, jewellery, including including of overhead of overhead lighting—with lighting—with warmwarm Thomas Thomas SaboSabo watches. watches. incandescent incandescent light light bulbs.bulbs.

Flowers: Flowers: Because Because of our ofmodern our modern times,times, we can we get can flowers get flowers off-season. off-season.

Seeing Seeing arrangements arrangements of fresh of fresh cut flowers cut flowers brings brings colour colour and aand promise a promise of spring. of spring.

Reading Reading Spot:Spot: Curling Curling up with up with a good a good

bookbook is oneis of one theofprivileges the privileges of a winter of a winter day. Designate day. Designate a reading a reading spot spot or corner or corner with with a comfortable a comfortable chair,chair, tabletable and and goodgood reading reading lamp.lamp.

2176 2176 7th7th Avenue Avenue In Regina’s In Regina’s Warehouse Warehouse District District 306.565.1833 306.565.1833 FineLifestyles REGINA

125

giving solutions that are original and fun to give. With choosing Tidy Time Saver gift certificates, you not only have the satisfaction of finding a useful and unique gift, but you are showing your loved-one that you appreciate all that they do.

According to Shaw, gift certificates are available in a variety of formats. You can purchase them according to service packages offered; which includes the General Cleaning package and the Top to Bottom Deluxe Cleaning package.

Shaw also points out that certificates are available in any denomination you choose.

Gift baskets are very popular, bring in your ideas and the type of gift certificate you’d like and Shaw will take care of making up a beautiful basket for your special someone.

Not only are the gift baskets a great gift to give but they are appreciated for months after.

“When you buy house cleaning certificates, you keep your loved-one happy all year long,” states Shaw.

The Gift Certificate

For holidays, anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, house-warmings, or any occasion Tidy Time Saver gift certificates and gift baskets are both sentimental and practical. They really are the gift that keeps on giving.

For more information call 591-7969.

that Keeps on Giving

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK Gift shopping is one of my favourite things to do. I love to take the time to seek out something special for a loved-one. It is my hope that the person receiving it will know how much I appreciate them.

I am not alone in this, everyone enjoys seeing a loved-one’s face light up when they open their gift.

126

FineLifestyles REGINA

However, we all have people who are difficult to shop for. Also, there are times when we are busier than we’d like to be and don’t have the time to spend doing a lot of shopping. This is when a little creativity can go a long way.

Sharla Shaw of Tidy Time Saver Professional House Cleaning offers gift-

Tidy Time Saver Regina. Sk. Phone: 306.591.7969 www.tidytimesaver.com

We’ve got you covered...

Interiors (1992) Ltd. 1636 6th Ave. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.789.4450 sales@prestige-interiors.net www.prestige-interiors.net

TEAM DENIS FROM Left to right: ( Irvin Lazorko, Jon Barabash, Trevor Slugoski, Adrien Denis, Mike Miller)

RECOMMENDS

LINE-X SPRAY-ON TRUCK BEDLINERS IN EVERY TRUCK THEY SELL! Call Custom Car Care for your Line-X spray-on bedliner today!

Custom Car Care LINE-X 1308 McIntrye St Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.569.2273 www.line-x.ca

Regina’s unique antiques and collectables store with a variety of nostalgic items for everyone in the family. Many pieces of good quality jewelry from the 1800’s to new. Dolls, dishware, books, pictures and salt & pepper shaker sets to please anyone.

Come and spend some relaxation time drifting back into the past

Memories From Yvonne Rose Street at 11th Ave. Regina, Sk.

306.565.3010 • BUY • SELL • CONSIGN

From Sales Through Design & Installation

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

www.alpinetile.ca

Everything I want is here Friendship, fun, comfort and care: Life at the Renaissance Retirement Residence

BY EDWARD WILLETT One bitterly cold week in January 2008, Vera decided to make a change.

Widowed for eight years, and without any children, she had been living alone.

But then...

Retirement Residence at 1801 McIntyre St.

my own age,” she says. “I’ve made a lot of friends here.”

“I never looked back,” she enthuses.

“Everything I want is here!”

The most casual, the most

“It went down to minus-39,” she recalls.

“The cold spell lasted for one whole week, and I didn’t go outside at all. I was completely alone. None of my friends phoned me, and I didn’t phone anyone.

That entire week, I didn’t hear another human voice.

“Right there and then I said I wouldn’t spend another winter alone.”

Vera was an active member of a fitness club before she moved; now she does the same exercises in the Renaissance’s own gym. “There are bingo, whist, and many other activities. There’s a movie theatre and library. It’s close to the Cornwall Centre: I walk there every day.

My doctor is right around the corner. “I don’t have to do any housecleaning or cooking.”

She sold her house that spring, and on June 1, 2008, moved into Renaissance

And best of all, she’s never alone if she doesn’t want to be. “I’m around people

130

FineLifestyles REGINA

friendly The friendliness of the residents at the Renaissance also attracted George and Irene. “We came looking,” Irene says.

“We’d seen other retirement homes and we liked this best because it’s the most causal, the most friendly.”

Over 2 1/2 years, that initial impression has been confirmed over and over. “We like the people,” Irene says. And not just the residents: “The staff is great.”

The staff appreciates the company of seniors and the reward of helping them enjoy their retirement years.

There are lots of things to do. “George loves to dance,” Irene puts in, “and they have quite a few dances. They call him Twinkletoes!”

“You get to meet people,” George adds.

“You entertain, mix and get around: it’s lovely.”

At the Renaissance, he says: “People seem to have a genuine concern about each other. It’s so nice to have neighbours like that.” He laughs. “We try to be nice, too!”

A Chartwell residence The Regina Renaissance Retirement Residence is Canadian-owned and operated by Chartwell Seniors Housing REIT. The Regina Renaissance has been designed with worry-free living and a sense of community within a beautiful, well-maintained building, staffed by a

skilled, caring team of professionals, supported by the latest safety and security systems.

There are studio, one-bedroom, onebedroom-and-den and two-bedroom suites available. Services include two meals a day, plus morning and afternoon snacks, personal call pendants, weekly light housekeeping and personal laundry facilities.

Building amenities include a theatre; a country kitchen; an activity lounge; a computer room; a library; a sun patio and garden area; a billiards and games room; a hair salon; a fitness area—and more. And of course the location is second to none, close to Globe Theatre, the YWCA and YMCA, the Cornwall Centre and other downtown facilities.

Scheduled mini-bus transportation comes right to the front door.

As Vera, George and Irene will tell you, life at the Renaissance is cozy, comfortable, companionable and caring.

It truly is a place where you can “Live life the way you always have...only better!”

Regina Renaissance Retirement Residence 1801 McIntyre St. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.525.8686 www.chartwellreit.ca

FineLifestyles REGINA

131

Its versatility is its big attraction.

The progressive SUV as it was meant to be.

Standard features: UÊ À â Ì> Þ «« Ãi` È VÞ `iÀ -1 ,1 "8 , i } i Ê ÊÎ°È ] Ü Ì ÓxÈ ÀÃi« ÜiÀ UÊ x ëii` iVÌÀ V ÀiVÌ ÌÀ ÕÌ >Ì V /À> à ÃÃ Ê Ü Ì > Õ> `i ­x /® UÊÊ -ÕL>ÀÕ ÃÞ iÌÀ V> vÕ Ì i 7 ii À Ûi ÃÞÃÌi UÊ 6i V i Þ > Và ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi > ` /À>VÌ ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi UÊ - Ü Ì iVÌÀ V À> i v ÀVi ÃÌÀ LÕÌ ­ ® UÊ À V ` Ì } Ü Ì > À w ÌÀ>Ì

Dual-zone climate control

Rear-view camera

2011 Tribeca Japanese and a whole lot more!

Starting from

$40,995* Financing and leasing available

AUTO GALLERY SUBARU 609 WINNIPEG STREET REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN S4P 8P2

Roofline spoiler

UÊ {äÉÓäÉ{ä ë Ì] ÀiV } > ` >` ÕÃÌ>L i ÃiV ` À Ü Ãi>Ì } UÊ xäÉxä ë Ì] y>Ì v ` } Ì À` À Ü Ãi>Ìà ­Õ« Ì ÊÇÊ«>ÃÃi }iÀî UÊ £n V > Õ Õ > Þ Ü ii Ã] x ` ÕL i ë i `ià } UÊ * ÜiÀ Ì Ì } > ` à ` } } >Ãà À v Ü Ì ÃÕ Ã >`i

Optional features: UÊÊ >À > >À` ® £ä ëi> iÀ ÃÞÃÌi Ü Ì Înx Ü>ÌÌ > « wiÀ UÊ ÕiV iVÌ® ÕiÌ Ì ® > `à vÀii ÃÞÃÌi ­Û Vi >VÌ Û>Ìi`® UÊ *- 6 L>Ãi` >Û }>Ì ÃÞÃÌi UÊ 6 i ÌiÀÌ> i Ì ÃÞÃÌi \ Ài>À Ãi>Ì] V ÃVÀii ` ÕV Àio

525.6700 1.888.763.6700 www.autogallery.com

Its captivating spirit creates quite an attraction!

Japanese SUVs just got a little sexier.

Large cargo area

2010 Forester 2.5X Sport-tech Package Japanese and a whole lot more!

Starting from

$28,695* Financing and leasing available

Automatic climate control

Standard features

UÊÊ-ÕL>ÀÕ½ÃÊÃÞ iÌÀ V> ÊvÕ Ì i 7 ii ÊÊ À ÛiÊÃÞÃÌi UÊ -1 ,1Ê "8 ,Êi } i UÊ ÀÊV ` Ì }ÊÜ Ì Ê> ÀÊw ÌÀ>Ì UÊ i>Ìi`ÊvÀ ÌÊÃi>Ìà UÊ ÈäÉ{ä ë Ì]Êy>Ì v ` }ÊÀi>ÀÊÃi>ÌÃ

AUTO GALLERY SUBARU 609 WINNIPEG STREET REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN S4P 8P2

ÊÊÊ

6 CD/MP3/WMA premium audio system

Exclusive features for the Sport-tech

UÊÊ* ÜiÀÊà ` }Ê} >ÃÃÊÊ À vÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ UÊÊ* iiÀ®Ê 6 Ê `>à ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ ÊÊÊÊ >Û }>Ì ÉÊ Õ` ÊÃÞÃÌi UÊ ÕiÌ Ì ®Ê > `à vÀiiÊÃÞÃÌi UÊ * `®É1- Ê>Õ` Ê Ìi}À>Ì UÊ £Ç V Ê> Õ Õ Ê> ÞÊÜ ii Ã

525.6700 1.888.763.6700 www.autogallery.com

JAMES BOND’S NEW RIDE?

New AutoTech for 2012

By Brian Bowman

The future looks green, even in the luxury car segment. As compact hybrids and electrics are starting to appear with exclusive nameplates, Brian Bowman reviews the new eco-offerings for 2012.

The future of luxury cars isn’t what it used to be. Due to the global recession and

134

FineLifestyles REGINA

pressure to make cars more efficient, consumer preference in this market segment is changing. As well, hybrid and electric power is becoming more practical, at least for urban use, and while it is still inadequate for long distance travel, it is pressing hard on the appeal of traditional power plants.

Consequently, many manufacturers are re-

thinking their luxury offerings for 2012 and will be introducing smaller, more compact models often based on entry level platforms.

One example is Audi’s A3. This vehicle is still based on the Volkswagon Golf, but Audi is expected to offer it on this side of

finelifestylesregina | wheels

New Autotech for 2012 the pond as a four-door sedan, with a slightly longer wheelbase, a bump in power and more premium features. The car should have an edgier look as well with obvious reference to the A3. This model may also signal the introduction of a modular architecture called MQB, an acronym for Modularer Querbaukasten, or modular transverse matrix, which allows a mixing and matching of component sets like transverse engines and all-wheel drive.

Audi has been facing stiff competition from such brands as BMW and Cadillac lately and this innovation is an attempt to lower manufacturing costs by allowing conformity of engineering across their product line.

BMW’s 3-series may also see a makeover as a premium compact designed for increased fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions while retaining its performance characteristics. New for this line, and expected to hit our shores soon, is the A3 Grand Turismo, a four-passenger model that will be similar to the A5GT. Hatchbacks aren’t the big sellers in North America that they are in Europe, but BMW hopes to mitigate that with a two-piece end gate combining a separate trunk lid and trunklike compartment with the hatch. This car may also feature an eight-speed automatic transmission, which includes a fuel-saving idle-stop system similar to that on most gas/electric hybrid vehicles.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class for 2012 will be a four-seat vehicle with a rear console that separates folding rear seats. This should increase comfort for rear passengers and add functionality since it may permit room for longer items in the trunk. But the biggest innovation will be in the headlights.

These will combine LED with Xenon technology to increase viewing range and more closely resemble natural light to reduce eyestrain. Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist technology will also be included.

Not to be outdone, Cadillac may introduce a version of its European-market BLS sedan as a lower priced companion to the CTS. The new car will likely be badged as the 2012 Cadillac BTS. Since it is based on the current European version, this is likely to be a rear wheel drive model and may appear as a four-door version. Consider it an entry level compact luxury car, positioned as a rival to the BMW 1-series.

But the big news for Cadillac is the proposed 2012 launch of the long anticipated ATS. Cadillac has been coy about technical and dimensional details, but it’s likely to be similar to the CTS, albeit in a smaller, lighter package, and appear in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. It should be priced lower and positioned as a direct challenge to the Audi A4 and BMW 3-series. If so, it will be a serious contender since the bigger, heavier CTS can already hang with these cars on just about any road they travel.

Lexus may also enter the luxury compact ring in 2012 with a new hybrid four-door hatchback dubbed the Lexus CT 200h. This car premiered at the Geneva and New York Auto shows last spring and is the smallest Lexus so far. The firm is offering it as a “dedicated” gas/electric hybrid, meaning that conventional gas or diesel power will not be an option. Lexus is marketing the CT 200h as eco-friendly and fun to drive, and hyping it as symbolic of “urban luxury living” in an effort to attract younger, upwardly mobile buyers.

Infinity will introduce a hybrid for 2012 dubbed the M35 Hybrid, claiming it will get double the mileage of the current M35 conventionally-powered version. The 3.5litre gas engine will be supplemented by an electric unit that generates about 76 horsepower. While the car will be a competitor for such company as BMW’s 5-series, it may realize the same economy as a smaller compact.

Lincoln, too, may offer a compact luxury model by 2012 as the Lincoln C-hatchback.

This one is also aimed at the “urban consumer” who the company claims is ecoconscious but luxury car-oriented. Details are sketchy, but the vehicle should perform in “Lincoln-like” fashion with a 180hp fourbanger developing about 180 foot pounds of torque. Fuel economy should be high and creature comforts and electronic toys will abound. As an indication of developing trends, Lincoln’s full-sized Town Car may have its last hurrah in the next year or so.

And if you need further confirmation of the direction the luxury car segment is heading, consider this: Aston Martin is developing a compact for release in 2012 called the Cygnet. This one is based on Toyota’s frontwheel drive iQ mini-car, restyled to flaunt Aston-Martin’s distinctive grill plus luxurious appointments and all the caché of the DB9. The power train will be front-wheel drive powered by the Toyota iQ’s 1.3litre engine generating a whopping 98 horsepower—good enough for city use, but, because the car will likely be heavier than its Asian cousin, its 0-100km times likely won’t be more than about 13 seconds— hardly “Casino Royale” performance. The Cygnet is coming Canada too, a major shift in the Scotland-based company’s marketing focus, and, from a company whose traditional offerings are in pretty tall company, it’s a real indicator of the way things are headed throughout the luxury segment. That said, there is a dark and disturbing side to this. If this signals a change in performance benchmarks for Aston, what does it mean for the future characterization of 007?

FineLifestyles REGINA

135

Today’s Forecast: 100% Chance of Traction Weather-Master S/T2 “Snow groove” technology provides biting edges for excellent snow and ice traction. Pinned for studs to increase winter traction capabilities.

ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ

Eye Candy Bed Accessories Mud Flaps Front End Protection Step Bars/Boards Fender Trim Rocker Panels Floor Mats Tonneau Covers Grill Inserts Side Window Deflectors Grills Hood Protection

ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ

Our Suppliers

Northgate Mall Regina, Sk. Toll free: 1.866.789.5337 www.canadatruckaccessories.com

Bell Tire Store 775-1244 700 1st Avenue, Regina

finelifestylesregina | wheels

WE ARE A FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS SERVING ALL OF SASKATCHEWAN

WITH THE BEST SERVICE IN DIESEL AND GAS PERFORMANCE! SASKATCHEWAN’S #1 NADP DEALER OFFERING:

• DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER DELETES • LIGHT DUTY TRUCK REPAIR • EXHAUSTS • TUNERS • LIFT KITS • TRANSMISSIONS WITH 3 YR/60,000 KM WARRANTY • TRANSFER CASES

Wishing our family of customers a very Merry Christmas!

PLEASE MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE $25 OFF YOUR NEXT PURCHASE

BOX 6, RR-1, SITE 103, REGINA, SK. PHONE: 306.545.5911 EMAIL: SMOKETHEM@HOTMAIL.COM

with a difference

PHOTOS BY JENNIFER ENGEL

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK “I’m not a salesman,” states Norm Johner, President and General Manager of Indian Head Chrysler, “I’m just here to help you get the vehicle you need.”

why, when you walk through the door at Indian Head Chrysler, there is no pressure. Johner wants you to consider your decision carefully.

From the time Indian Head Chrysler opened its doors, more than 25 years ago, the priority has been customer service. It’s always been very important to Johner and his staff to provide an enjoyable buying experience to everyone who visits.

“I treat my customers the way I want to be treated,” Johner states, “I know I can make my own decisions and my customers can too.”

“I don’t play games, I’m not good at that,” he comments.

Johner understands that when most people come to buy a vehicle, they have done research about what they want and need. His respect for his customers is emphasized as he explains that buying a vehicle is an important decision, one that should not be taken lightly. That is

138

FineLifestyles REGINA

It is this type of respectful attitude that has been the cornerstone philosophy of Johner and his team since the business first opened its doors.

Johner, whose educational background is in accounting, had been working for a Chrysler dealership in Estevan. It was his goal to own and operate his own business and when the opportunity came up to open a dealership in Indian Head, he and his family eagerly stepped up to the plate.

Not wanting to be a “big city” car dealer and having young daughters (Amanda and Nicole) to raise, Johner and his wife Rose-Anne, were very pleased with the move to Indian Head.

“It’s a great community to raise a family and start a business,” says Johner.

Johner also expresses his gratitude for the support that he and his business have received from the residents of the town of Indian Head and surrounding area.

“I can’t emphasize enough how much I appreciate the great support I get from them,” he states.

Over the years, Johner has given back that support by being involved in the community as a town councillor, member of various committees and supporter of local teams and events.

Being located near the Trans-Canada Highway proves to be beneficial for locals and visitors. Johner points out that his location is easy to find and accessible from the highway.

The hard work of the Indian Head Chrysler team has paid off over the years. In 1998, the Parts and Service

Department, managed by expanded 3,000 square feet.

Johner,

As the business continues to thrive, Johner makes it a point to maintain the “small town” atmosphere that Indian Head Chrysler has become known for.

One example is that of a young woman from a larger centre who recently visited Indian Head Chrysler. She had called ahead saying that she wanted to test drive a vehicle. She told Johner that she had heard about his “no pressure” reputation. After test driving and purchasing the vehicle of her choice, she thanked Johner for the pleasant experience she had.

It’s not Johner’s priority to want the biggest and flashiest car lot in Saskatchewan, but it is his goal to provide the best and most sincere service. When you buy your next vehicle, Johner doesn’t want you to feel pushed

into it; he wants you to feel confident that you made the right decision. He wants you to deal with someone you feel you can trust.

For more information about Indian Head Chrysler visit their website at www.indianheadchrysler.com or call 1-800-652-3181.

Indian Head Chrysler 507 Johnston Ave. Indian Head, Sk. Phone: (306) 695-2254 www.indianheadchrysler.ca

FineLifestyles REGINA

139

Graham’s Tire Service The Way It Used To Be

BY RYAN HOLOTA Graham’s Tire is one of those gems that many people have never heard of but has regular customers that sing their praises. Located north of the Evraz Steel plant on Highway 6 (technically 3010 Albert St N), Graham’s Tire is the type of place that reminds you what customer service used to be like.

Founded in 1985 by Graham Lloyd, the business recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. The business began servicing construction equipment such as loaders and earthmovers and then expanded into passenger car and light truck tires. In 1989 Graham’s brother Frank Lloyd joined the business and it has continued to grow. Graham’s Tire developed a reputation for being able

140

FineLifestyles REGINA

to get almost any tire you could want, something they still pride themselves on today. A few years ago they were approached by Goodyear to become a Goodyear Select tire retailer, an offer that they embraced. While they still provide their customers with a wide range of tire manufacturers to choose from, they are proud of their affiliation with Goodyear and carry an impressive inventory of Goodyear tires in almost every style and size.

Still a family-owned and family-run business, most of the day-to-day activities are now handled by Kelvin Lloyd and Graham Pfeifer, the founder’s son and stepson. Over half of the 15 employees are somehow related to

the owners, and there is even a pair of brothers working in the shop.

Graham’s Tire doesn’t do any mechanical work on vehicles. They specialize in tires, and focus on providing the best possible service to their customers. They don’t take appointments, operating on a walkin basis, but you never seem to have to wait long. Two gigantic service bays are long enough to fit four cars or trucks end to end, and a team of workers in matching overalls swarm over your vehicle when it comes in.

Walk into the showroom and make your request. As soon as possible, your vehicle will be moved into one of the bays. Immediately, jacks are placed

under the vehicle, and the wheels are removed. One person fetches new tires as another removes the old ones from the rims. The new tires are mounted, balanced, and installed. Then, as the vehicle is lowered to the ground, another employee with a handheld torque wrench looks your vehicle up on a chart and proceeds to manually torque the wheels to the manufacturers recommended setting. All around you people are cleaning the floor, and tidying the shop. Nobody is rushing. Their speed does not come from hurrying, but from efficiency and excellence in their trade.

The vehicle is returned to the front, and you are on your way. It’s no problem if you want to see the work performed yourself – just walk into the workshop and enjoy the show.

Always looking for new ways to serve their customers, Graham’s Tire has begun offering custom wheels to its clients. Chrome and aluminum wheels are available to order in every combination imaginable. Whether you are driving a lifted 4x4 or a lowered Honda, Graham’s Tire can provide you with a wheel and tire combination that really sets your ride apart.

Of course, not everybody wants specialty wheels just to look cool.

Winter tires completely transform the way a vehicle handles on snow and ice, and customers often have their winter tires mounted on an extra set of wheels for convenience. For those who don’t want to spend the extra money for an extra set of wheels, your tires can be remounted every spring and fall for a small price.

Open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Graham’s Tire is proud to provide top-tier customer service to all of their customers, from passenger car to light truck and from commercial truck to construction equipment. Drop by and see how they can serve you.

Graham’s Tire 3010 Albert St.N. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.352.8473

* Ì Êv ÀÊ ÕÃÌÀ>Ì Ê«ÕÀ« ÃiÃÊ Þ

Pure performance.

The 2011 Subaru WRX STI UÊ À> >Ì V ià > ` ÌÕ Ì Ûi ÌiÀv>Vià VÀi>Ìi Ì i «ÀiÃÃ Ì >Ì]ÊÊ Ê iÛi Liv Ài Ì i iÞ Ã ÌÕÀ i`] Ì i 7,8 -/ à Ài>`Þ Ì Li `À Ûi UÊ Ó°x "8 , i } i Ü Ì } «ÀiÃÃÕÀi ÌÕÀL V >À}iÀÊEÊ ÌÕÀL V >À}iÀ Îäx * UÊ x ` À > ` iÜ Þ `iÛi «i` { ` À Ü Ì Ê>Ê } «À w i ë iÀ UÊ ÃÌ> Ì >VVi iÀ>Ì ] iÝV Ì } Àië Ãi > ` Ì Ý V>Ì } Ã Õ `

The 2011 Subaru WRX UÊ

iÜ Ü `i L `Þ v À > >}}ÀiÃÃ Ûi À >` «ÀiÃi Vi

UÊ ÓÈx * "8 , i } i] ÜÉÌÕÀL V >À}iÀ > ` ÌiÀV iÀÊÊ UÊ x ` À > ` Ü]Ê>Ê iÜ Þ `iÛi «i` { ` À ÛiÀà UÊ -« ÀÌÞ] ë>V Õà > ` ÛiÀÃ>Ì i ÌiÀ À Starting from

Starting from

$32,495*

$37,995*

Financing and leasing available

Financing and leasing available

* - Ê Ê Ê7 " Ê "/Ê ", t

AUTO GALLERY SUBARU 609 WINNIPEG STREET REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN S4P 8P2

525.6700 1.888.763.6700 www.autogallery.com

Its style creates an attraction that can’t be beat.

The sedan that commands respect.

Standard features: UÊ À â Ì> Þ «« Ãi` "8 , i } i] Ü Ì £Çä * UÊ È Ã«ii` > Õ> /À> à Ãà ­È /® UÊ -ÕL>ÀÕ ÃÞ iÌÀ V> vÕ Ì i 7 ii À Ûi ÃÞÃÌi UÊ 6i V i Þ > Và ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi > ` /À>VÌ ÌÀ ÃÞÃÌi UÊ Ì V À> } -ÞÃÌi 7É iVÌÀ V À> i v ÀVi ÃÌÀ LÕÌ ­ ® UÊ À V ` Ì } Ü Ì > À w ÌÀ>Ì UÊ * ÜiÀ >` ÕÃÌ>L i] v `>L i > ` i>Ìi` ` À ÀÀ ÀÃ

New! Foldable door mirrors

Wide cargo area

Auto ON/OFF headlights

6 \ UÊ i>ÀÌÀ V® 6/ ­ Ì Õ ÕÃ Þ 6>À >L i /À> à Ãà ® Ü Ì > Õ> `i > ` «>`` i Ê Ã vÌ V ÌÀ à À x ëii` iVÌÀ V ÀiVÌ ÌÀ ÕÌ >Ì V /À> à Ãà UÊ /ÕÀL V >À}i` -1 ,1 "8 , i } i] Ó°x ] Ü Ì Ê ÓÈx ÀÃi« ÜiÀ À È VÞ `iÀ Î°È ] Ü Ì ÓxÈ * UÊ * ÜiÀ Ì Ì } > ` à ` } } >Ãà ÃÕ À v Ü Ì ÃÕ Ã >`i UÊ *- 6 L>Ãi` >Û }>Ì ÃÞÃÌi ­Û Vi >VÌ Û>Ìi`®

5-Star Crash-Test Rating†

Best Midsize Car‡

UÊ {{ä Ü>ÌÌ] n V > i >À > >À` ® > « wiÀ UÊ ÕiÌ Ì ® > `à vÀii ÃÞÃÌi ­Û Vi >VÌ Û>Ìi`® UÊ i` > ÕL v À * `®É1- >Õ` Ìi}À>Ì UÊ i>Ì iÀ ÜÀ>««i` ÃÌiiÀ } Ü ii UÊ ÕiÌ Ì ® streaming audio

▼

Drive over 1,000 km per tank

And much more…

AUTO GALLERY SUBARU 609 WINNIPEG STREET REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN S4P 8P2

525.6700 1.888.763.6700 www.autogallery.com

Expert Advice: Immigration Law

Foreign workers for Saskatchewan employers Matt M. Sirois, B.A. (Hons.), L.L.B. Sirois Law Firm, P.C. 2424 College Ave. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.585.6288 Email: siroislaw@sasktel.net In the last few months, the Saskatchewan government announced that Saskatchewan’s rate of growth was second amongst Canadian provinces.

Interestingly, almost half of the increase in the provincial population can be attributed to international migration.

Due in large part to the buoyant Saskatchewan economy, labour market requirements cannot be met by the domestic labour force alone. Indeed, an increasing number of employers are looking outside of Canada in order to meet their employment requirements.

Saskatchewan employers are currently basking in an enviable position; they can utilize the current economic position of the province and quality of life considerations to attract and retain foreign workers to this province.

I have spoken to numerous employers who have hesitated to sponsor foreign

workers in the past as they perceive the immigration process to be daunting. To be truthful, the process works well for employers as long as the appropriate procedures are followed.

First, the immigration lawyer must seek to understand the employer’s business and specific labour requirements. Indeed, employers are often very familiar with their business and their specific labour requirements. The lawyer must ask the right questions in order to find the ideal foreign worker for the workplace in question. The immigration lawyer will assist to ensure that the foreign worker has the required skills, experience and language requirements to work for the employer.

Second, the immigration lawyer must be diligent in guiding the employer through the immigration process. There are numerous ways to sponsor a foreign work-

er and the immigration lawyer must find the most efficient and timely route for foreign workers.

Third, the lawyer must also address issues surrounding the settlement of foreign workers, all of which will assist in retaining foreign workers for years to come. When employers find employees they can rely on, they decrease employee turnover, spend less time interviewing and hiring and more time running their respective business.

In short, if you’re an employer who is having difficulty finding qualified employees, you should consider sponsoring foreign workers - It may be the best decision you ever make for your business.

Expert Advice: Financial

Personal Financial Modeling Raymond Riel- Senior Advisor Lifestyle by Design Financial Group 2363 McIntyre Street Regina, SK (306) 757-6999 rriel@lifestylebydesign.ca As an advice-only financial planner with Lifestyle by Design, my recommendations sometimes vary from advice given by more traditional sources within the advisory community. To compare financial strategies fairly, we use proprietary technology to develop personal financial models that generate reporting where every transaction, calculation and assumption is auditable by our client and, their accounting, investment or insurance advisors. This article is a continuation of a case outlined in a previous edition of Fine Lifestyles Magazine.

After reviewing my new client’s (Jim and Donna) information, I was able to estimate the time necessary to develop a decision model for them. With their consent I would collect and coordinate additional information that I would obtain from their accountant, insurance and investment advisors. Once all information was collected and I proceeded to build a model that could determine whether the current finances were consistent with their primary objective of an early retirement, one that had been partially prompted by declining health.

What follows is series of meetings between Jim, Donna and I. Meeting 1: Jim and Donna were concerned and curious; Jim said, “Are we going to be ok? Can we look forward to a comfortable retirement?” I replied, “I’ve constructed your first model given the objective of retirement in five years-time using tax and investment assumptions your accountant and investment advisor agree are conservative.

It shows that the liquidation of your business assets in addition to your existing investments and entitlements such as CPP will provide an after tax income stream similar to what you’re enjoying today. In addition, your principal residence, residual investments and insurance benefits will

leave estate values that could be substantial so it would be worthwhile to review and model your estate/succession strategy as well. Jim said, “It looks like we’re going to be fine.” I added. “In fact, the residual investment values from ages 65 through 80 imply…” Donna interjected, “We might be able to retire sooner, right? Can you build our next model to test how soon we might be able to retire?”

Meeting 2: Jim began with, “You know, we have just planned for a winter vacation.” A shift in tone and attitude was evident as our conversation evolved from one of discussing constraints, into a conversation of exploring possibilities. I said, “Model 2 confirms you could retire sooner, but with an eventual reduction in estate value. Your insurance advisor suggested an income generating strategy but our model demonstrated that it shouldn’t be necessary. The models also indicate your insurance advisor has done a good job in providing you an adequate amount of insurance. Because of your change in health, there may be some opportunities for improvement within your existing insurance program. The transfer value of your existing insurance may have increased significantly. You could sell the policy to your corporation for mostly taxfree cash. Since we know your retirement income will be adequate, the funds could be invested, building up a reserve to enhance your estate or charitable objectives. The insurance benefit will eventually be paid back to your estate tax free. Jim said, “Wow, it sounds like a double win!” I replied, “The question now becomes one of strategy, valuation and mathematics. I would need to have a conversation with an actuary, your insurance advisor, and your accountant for confirmation. Donna said, “Let’s check this out Jim!”

Meeting 3: “This is getting interesting,” Jim said, “It looks like we’re going to be okay whether we retire tomorrow or wait five years.” Donna added, “This had a terrific impact on us, it’s taken the pressure off realizing we can continue to operate our business not because we need to continue working to fund our retirement, but because we want to.” I said, “Now let’s look at how positioning investment assets into a more favourable tax environment might improve your retirement income.”

Meeting 4: “We’ve made our decision,” Jim said, we’re retiring in 18 months which will give us time to wind down the business. We also spoke to our accountant, she’s happy with the alternatives you outlined and our insurance and investment advisors concur.

It looks like we have a plan, and surprisingly, modeling shows us that we won’t require additional savings, that our current insurance coverage is adequate, and by making subtle refinements with our existing investments and insurance we enhance income, reduce taxes and improve our estate. Thank you for putting the pieces together for us.” We shook hands, and they left with a clear direction and a better understanding of their financial world. rriel@lifestylebydesign.ca Lifestyle by Design is a Regina based firm established in 1994. Its primary objective is to help people live their lives more intentionally by making better informed financial decisions.

Raymond has 18 years of industry experience; he holds designations as a Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Life Underwriter, Registered Health Underwriter, Professional Retirement Planner and Certified Executive Coach (Royal Roads University).

FineLifestyles REGINA

145

of each customer, while finding the financial solutions that work for them.”

It’s common for CWB’s employees to know their customers by name because they work closely with them to offer a full complement of personal and business banking services. Many financial institutions save this level of service for “customer appreciation days,” but at CWB it’s a part of their everyday approach.

The Working BankTM Great things happen when your bank is working for you Canadian Western Bank (CWB) branches don’t operate like other bank branches. They don’t rely on voice mail to direct customer enquiries or use a wall of automated banking machines (ABMs) to offer their services. They value their customers’ time and therefore don’t direct them through a series of long line-ups to do their business. Overall they offer great personalized service, a seemingly rare trait among financial institutions these days.

in the way this company does business.

Here, we are well staffed and have less employee turnover. Our staff is ready to work hard and build strong relationships with our customers. We spend the time to understand the unique situation

Canadian Western Bank leaves its customers feeling confident that they’ve made the right financial choices. As the largest Canadian owned bank headquartered in the west, the people at CWB understand the unique personal and business banking needs of Western Canadians, which is one of the reasons why they’ve become known as The Working Bank™.

Canadian Western Bank 100-1881 Scarth St. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.757.8888 www.cwbank.com

If you talk to CWB’s Regina Branch Manager, Kelly Dennis, he would say customers deserve to feel welcome when they walk into his branch. That’s because Kelly is an employee who works with customers to get things done.

This attitude is core to CWB’s culture, which is built on a combination of the right people and the right products, ultimately leading to exceptional customer experiences.

“I’ve been in the banking industry for over 15 years,” says Kelly. “When I came to Canadian Western Bank five years ago, I noticed a positive change

FineLifestyles REGINA

147

306 Victoria Ave E Regina, SK (306) 359-6939 Fax: (306) 359-6965

U of R Campus Regina, SK (306) 337-2235

PC Place Surplus Store 990 Albert St Regina, SK (306) 790-1885

Expert Advice: Investing

finelifestylesregina | business

Retirement Planning with Yogi Grant Karst CFP, CLU, CHFC The Wealth Planning Group 207-4401 Albert Street Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.757.5038 Email: grant@mybluesky.ca www.mybluesky.ca The Baby Boomers have arrived at the retirement stage and like every stage of life they have gone through, it is going to be different for them. In fact, one financial institution has already given them a new name,�Generation I� with the “I� standing for “Income.� As the Boomers approach retirement they are confronted by many circumstances different from their parents’ generation:

t 5IFZ IBWF TQFOU NPSF BOE TBWFE less

t 5IFZ XBOU UP SFUJSF FBSMJFS BOE expect to live longer

t .BSLFUT IBWF OPU CFFO LJOE UP them in the last decade

t *OUFSFTU SBUFT BSF BU BMM UJNF lows

Perhaps Yogi Berra has some nuggets of wisdom for Generation I. He is one of the most quoted personalities of our time, so let’s see how his “Yogi-isms� apply to retirement planning. t “It ain’t over ‘til it’s over� Longevity is becoming increasingly important as retirees try to stretch out retirement assets over two or three decades. .PTU QFPQMF EPO U IBWF EFmOFE benefit pension plans so there is a real possibility of outliving their income. But how much time do you want to spend managing your money when you are 80 years old? t i* VTVBMMZ UBLF B UXP IPVS OBQ GSPN POF UP GPVSw Having enough income to live comfortably is where most people

focus their attention but preparing for a different lifestyle where every day is like a weekend presents challenges as well. How many games of golf do you really want to play in a week and what to you do in the other seven months in Saskatchewan? t i*U T E¸K² WV BMM PWFS BHBJOw .BZCF not. If Boomers are looking at their parents’ retirement as a reference point they may be disappointed. Their parents retired with little or no debt, were older, less active, and accustomed to living within their means. Interest rates were much higher and annuities were a popular choice for guaranteeing lifetime income. t i8IFO ZPV DPNF UP B GPSL JO UIF SPBE 5BLF JUw What to do? Leave your money in equities for better potential returns to fight inflation or move to fixed income assets to counter volatility and uncertainty. Should annuities be considered? What about these new (VBSBOUFFE .JOJNVN 8JUIESBXBM Benefit plans? Saving may have been difficult but spending may be harder! t 0O XIZ /FX :PSL MPTU UIF TFSJFT UP 1JUUTCVSHI i8F NBEF UPP NBOZ XSPOH NJTUBLFTw If you make a mistake when you are still earning an income, ZPV DBO BEKVTU BOE SFDPWFS .JTUBLFT made during retirement often have permanent consequences. Not having the right asset mix, spending too much too soon, or not factoring inflation into your plans can leave you wanting later on.

Look around and see how others have prepared for retirement. Did they discuss how spending 24/7 together will impact their marriage? Are they counting on their kids looking after them when they need long-term care?

Do they have a retirement budget? Did they start with a retirement spending plan? t i5IF GVUVSF BJO U XIBU JU VTFE UP CFw For some who retired in the last two to three years, their future is not what they thought it would be. For others retiring without a retirement spending plan as a guide, their future is a moving target changing with markets, interest rates and unforeseen challenges. t i*G UIF XPSME XFSF QFSGFDU JU XPVMEO U be� You can’t plan for everything but you can start with getting expert advice from someone who specializes in retirement spending. It is a different skill set than providing advice on accumulating assets because new factors like sequence of returns, survivor income and estate planning must be incorporated.

When is the right time to start your retirement spending plan? When Yogi was asked what time it was he asked, “You mean now?� He also said, “It gets late awfully early around here.�

Thanks, Yogi.

t i:PV DBO PCTFSWF B MPU CZ XBUDIJOHw

FineLifestyles REGINA

149

Invest with Advice Finding financial freedom through education

BY G.H.LEWMER What is financial freedom? Many people believe it’s just a matter of monetary wealth that will never happen for them. For those who obtain financial freedom, they understand that they must have the courage to take action to manage and grow their existing financal resources through successful financial planning and investing. For independent Financial Advisor Manoah Hartmann, courage is the understanding that anything is possible - both in life and in finances.

“I was working as an arts education teacher at Hawrylak Elementary school in Regina back in 2003,” says Hartmann. “At a school fundraiser, I agreed to audition for Canadian Idol if my students met their fundraising goal.

The students not only reached their goal, they exceeded it! To keep my part of the bargain, I headed for the Canadian Idol auditions in Regina in 2004. After months of auditions and cuts, I was thrilled to be chosen by Canadian Idol viewers as a Top 10 Finalist. During that summer of singing my heart out, I proved to my students, as well as to myself, that anything is possible.”

This courage to evolve from educator to Canadian Idol star to financial planner came with the hard work and dedication that Manoah is renowned for. It’s this commitment to excellence that she offers every client she works with. In addition to this commitment to

150

FineLifestyles REGINA

excellence she has the ability to connect with people on a personal level, relating to their needs and concerns with understanding, compassion, and empathy.

“When I started in this business, the teacher in me soon recognized that many people were ill advised, non-advised, or lacked the time and financial knowledge to research all of the options available to them in the financial marketplace,” she says. “What concerned me was that those without financial and investment advice found themselves ill-prepared for some of the most important and lifechanging financial decisions that they will face over their lifetime. I realized that the value I brought was that I could help my clients make educated and informed financial decisions at the most important and critical moments in their lifetime.”

Moments that can occur in an instant and change your life forever, as client Gayle Jones remembers well. “This past June, I unexpectedly found myself a widow at age 52,” Gayle relates.

“Manoah immediately picked up the ball and starting running, providing me with solid financial decisions, advice on how to proceed, tax

information and investment options that saved me thousands of dollars, along with compassionate words of encouragement to help me through all of it. Manoah went above and beyond what I would expect was required of a financial advisor.”

This care and attention to empowering her clients with sound and correct steps to achieve financial independence is extremely important to Manoah.

“My partner is a coach with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and I have realized that my job is a lot more like his than I first thought. I have become a coach who enhances the financial literacy of my clients, teaching them financial and investment practices that they can use throughout their lifetime. I assist clients in setting planning targets, selecting the right investment vehicles to reach those targets, and developing an overall financial plan to address both their financial needs and risks for their unique circumstances.”

Household Average Investable AssetsHousehold Average Assets – Registered andInvestable Unregistered Registered and Unregistered

$214,587 $197,273

Advised NonAdvised

$138,358

$53,358

$125,348

$119,318

$72,503

$164,542

$65,079

$49,041 $43,618

$37,400

$142,084

$132,194 $111,184 $81,918

$81,730 $11,227 $6,349 $4,877

Under $35,000

$27,104

$29,119

$8,803

$12,604

$18,301

$16,514

$44,103

$89,317

$18,262 $25,841

$35,000 to $54,999 $55,000 to Investable $69,999 $70,000 Assets to $99,999 –$100,000 or more Household Average Household Income (2009) Registered Unregistered Avg. $ Registered andAvg. $ Unregistered

Source: Ipsos Reid ‘Canadian Financial Monitor’, special analysis for IFIC © 2010 Ipsos

$272,761 $246,752

$60,842

$132,176

$140,155

Advised NonAdvised

$39,608 $185,910

$79,074 $13,944 $100,548 $24,787 $5,765 $19,022

$65,130

<45

$140,585

$51,649

$46,462

$20,089

$12,408

$31,561

$34,054

45 -54

55 - 64

$66,064 $38,246 $27,818

> =65

Age of Head of Household (2009)

Avg. $ Registered

Avg. $ Unregistered

Source: Ipsos Reid ‘Canadian Financial Monitor’, special analysis for IFIC

“If anyone is searching for a great financial planner and advisor, then look no further than Manoah Hartmann.

There is nobody that my husband Eric and I would trust more to handle all our assets and investments.

With the enormous wealth of financial knowledge that she brings, Manoah always has our best interests at heart, and she consistently makes wise decisions about our family’s present and future. She is extremely professional in her work, and knows every aspect of the investment industry like the back of her hand. With that said, Manoah is also one of the most personable, enjoyable and entertaining ladies that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, and I am proud to also call her my good friend!”

© 2010 Ipsos

Source: Ipsos Reid ‘Canadian Financial Monitor’, special analysis for IFIC. © 2010 Ipsos

In these uncertain financial times, Manoah understands how imperative it is for individuals to work with a professional Certified Financial Planner.

large independent dealer like Partners in Planning, I have access to a wide variety of products that I select based on clients’ needs rather than firm or bank directed mandates.”

“When working with a Certified Financial Planner, a client knows they are dealing with someone who is licensed to sell financial products and who, in turn, is dealing with a regulated entity,” Manoah explains. “By law and the CFP code of ethics, I am required to deal honestly and in good faith with all of my clients.

I have an obligation to ensure that the recommendations I make to clients are suitable for their investment objectives and risk tolerance. By working with a

Manoah would love to sit down with anyone looking to develop their own financial plan, and will conduct her initial meeting with you free of charge.

Making the move to educated investing is just a phone call away. With that phone call, you may discover that financial freedom is within your reach.

Francine Tillman

MANOAH HARTMANN CFP, B.Ed Financial Advisor, CFP professional Partners In Planning 3035 Robinson St. Regina, SK (W) 306-522-0131 (C) 306-596-9366 Email: mhartmann@pipfs.com

FineLifestyles REGINA

151

Viva la Cuba… Viva la Cuba Libre!

BY THOM BARKER Cuba has always been a bit of an oddity. In the cities and towns, its colonial Spanish origin mingles with remnants of its capitalist heyday and the industrial monuments of the revolution that shocked its giant neighbour to north. Despite the ensuing decades of repression from within and oppression from without and the resulting shortages in just about everything, Cubans enjoy exceptionally high rates of literacy, universal healthcare and remain some of

the friendliest people anywhere. They are always eager to share a song and their own indiosyncratic toast: Salud, dinero y amor (health, money and love).

In the 1960s through the 1980s, Cuba’s tourism industry was pretty much defunct.

The gorgeous beaches and opulent hotels that had been the playground of rich American businessmen, movie stars and gangsters, basically became a private

getaway for the eastern bloc elite. But with the collapse of the Soviet Union, which was Castro’s only economic Ace in the hole for nearly 40 years, the Cuban government started refurbishing its aging resorts and opening up the country’s tourism prospects to foreign investment.

And Canadians, ever eager for a break from the deep freeze, were not surprisingly among the first to embrace the new

opportunity for vacations in the sun. Easy to get to, cheap and characterized by beautiful beaches, friendly people, safety and vibrant culture, Cuba quickly became a hot destination for winter-weary Canucks.

Like the duality of the country’s history, there are two distinct sides to the Cuban vacation coin: The cultural and historic and sun, sand and sea. For the former, Havana is the place to be. The sightseeing is fascinating with the colonial architecture, historic sites, museums and the living tribute to Marx and Lenin that is Cuba’s own brand of socialism. And Havana is still renowned for its culture. It has a thriving music scene, nightclubs, live entertainment and unique craft markets in the heart of the old city.

The latter is best experienced in the tourist areas, such as Varadero. Cuba offers some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. And really, for so many Saskatchewan residents, the best winter getaway simply means lazy days in the sun, tanning, reading and, of course, sampling the local spirits. Viva la Cuba Libre! If you must drag yourself away from your beach chair, though, most of the all-inclusive resorts have plenty of

activities to participate in onsite. If you want to go sightseeing, though, plan to make a day out of it. And nightlife is limited in the island’s beach destinations, so if you crave after-sundown action, make sure it is provided at the resort.

least one week after the return date. If you want to work, do business or study in Cuba you need a visa available through the Consulate General of Cuba in Toronto.

Getting There

These days, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from on the island, but it’s a good idea to research carefully where you stay. Gitmo notwithstanding, much of the Cuban tourism infrastructure suffers from having been government-controlled and run for too long and two- or three-star accommodations can be kind of sketchy.

The newer foreign-owned properties are much more likely to give you the pampering experience you crave while your friends and neighbours back home are shovelling their driveways in a -35C wind chill.

Cuba is closer than it seems. There are direct charter flights and direct scheduled flights to Havana from Saskatoon or indirect ones via Toronto or Montreal.

Choose carriers carefully though. As derided as Air Canada is by Canadians, Air Cubana, Cuba’s national airline, does not have the most stellar record in terms of safety and punctuality. Passengers do rave about the hospitality, though, but aging Russian equipment does not always make for the most comfortable or reliable transportation.

Staying there

Entry Requirements Every tourist should have a valid passport issued in his or her name and a tourist card available from the airline at the airport.

It is important for you to know that the Canadian passport should be valid for at

FineLifestyles REGINA

153

Extreme Hockey and Sport -

PHOTOS BY CALVIN FEHR

involved in OUR community

BY ELISABETH JOSEPH

Extreme Teams up with Red Cross to Fight Bullying The Canadian Red Cross and Extreme Hockey work together to help put a stop to bullying. Every day, children find themselves in situations involving taunting, physical aggression and isolation. Extreme believes these behaviours are harmful and as such works to help create safer environments for all children and youth.

154

FineLifestyles REGINA

Extreme Hockey promotes bullying prevention education throughout the year, especially during November and National Bullying Prevention Week.

Jason Degelman and his store help raise funds through the Imagine...No Bullies campaign during their special in-store event Black Friday. Donations for the Red Cross RespectED: Violence and Abuse Prevention program are accepted at the tills and last November raised $2,000.

During this event, Extreme’s team and Red Cross volunteers wear the symbolic anti-bullying pink t-shirts.

“We believe the responsibility for creating safe environments for our children rests with all of us,” says Cindy Fuchs, Red Cross provincial director.

“We are pleased to have the ongoing support of Extreme Hockey to help reach thousands of youth and adults with important bullying prevention messages.”

Extreme has become the presenting sponsor of the annual Black & Purple Campaign to Prevent Bullying. This support allows the Red Cross to bring in two talented musicians to perform and

sponsorship of developmental programs such as the 3-4-5 Fun Hockey League to anti-bullying efforts. Staff members are also involved in a wide variety of community sporting organizations.

Scott Albert, team/corporate sales manager, is involved with his son Brendan’s Hockey Regina atom team. His Western Hockey League experience, coupled with his leadership abilities, allowed him to easily make the transition to minor hockey coaching.

Scott’s experience with coaching has given him keen insight into the needs of the players, coaches and parents.

Derek Carson, corporate sales, coaches Regina Minor Football’s bantam Dinos.

In 2008, he worked as a first-year defensive back coach and guided his team to the city championships.

Coaching has allowed him to reach out to an entirely new clientele. This is important to Extreme’s business as many do not fully understand how much it can offer different organizations with their team apparel and/or fundraising opportunities.

educate on bullying prevention. During each tour, the girls speak about pain they experienced due to bullying, and encourage students to take action.

of bullying prevention education in Saskatchewan.

Because of Extreme Hockey’s support of the Imagine...No Bullies fundraising campaign and the Red Cross RespectED: Violence and Abuse Prevention program, more youth will be trained to recognize bullying behaviour, the harm it does and what they can do to help make it stop. Red Cross sincerely thanks Jason, Lisa and the team at Extreme for their incredible efforts and support

Extreme Team’s Community Involvement Grass roots involvement is the heart and soul of Saskatchewan’s sporting community. Extreme Hockey and Sport is a grass roots hockey store and consistently promotes a multitude of community needs varying from

Jordan Zaremba has been fully immersed in the Balgonie senior hockey ranks for 10 seasons. He has been a leader on and off the ice as a player, major contributor to the Bisons’ Team Trip of the Month lottery, organizer of many steak nights and the past few seasons has helped coach Balgonie’s AA midget hockey club. Being a truly grass-rooted guy he assisted in the building of Balgonie’s Stardome, which houses dozens of hockey teams and skating clubs.

Growing up in a small town instilled in him Jordan’s community-first mentality and allows him to understand and appreciate the budgetary restrictions that small town organizations constantly face. He knows the importance of volunteering because, like many grass roots programs, their success is defined by how hard individuals within them are willing to work to reach the collective goals.

Jordan Brisebois has volunteered over the years in a plethora of different

FineLifestyles REGINA

155

aspects. Growing up in a town of less than 200 and a volunteer-run rink meant pitching in was not optional.

Jordan spent years putting the ice in at the Kincaid and District Community Skating Rink, painting lines, helping with minor hockey practices, power skating lessons and the food booth.

When the season changed to baseball, he prepared diamonds and equipment by mowing grass, picking weeds and the arduous task of moving bleachers from inside the rink to the nearby diamonds. Jordan also volunteered his time coaching and officiating volleyball at Kincaid Central School. Jordan’s biggest feat has been re-launching the Kincaid Maroons Senior Hockey Club into the Notekeu Hockey League.

3-4-5 Fun Hockey League Brian and Lois Schatz were introduced to fun hockey 20 years ago when the league was run by the North Central

156

FineLifestyles REGINA

Recreation board and was for five and six year olds. Games were played at the Kinsmen Arena and each of the four teams had 1.5 hours of weekly ice time.

Things and times have changed. When their third son was ready to play six years later, the league had six teams and a very long wait list. They approached the coordinator to see how hard the league was to run—if they organized it, they surely could get their son on a team!

In 2002, the league changed to accommodate three, four and five year olds to coincide with age groups within Hockey Regina and surrounding organizations. It has grown to 22 teams, 14 players each, has 50 girls registered and plays on Saturdays and Sundays at the Staples arena.

Weekly, teams have one hour of ice time; 10-20 minutes given to instruction and

the remainder to scrimmage. Each team attends a Pats game and a University of Regina Cougars game and gets to scrimmage during the intermissions.

Yearly fees include team pictures, a one-day tournament in Odessa and a wind up event with trophies.

Why do Brian and Lois continue? For the love of the game! “You have to see little ones score a first goal or get their first trophy!” Lois exclaims. “And Extreme Hockey has been very supportive of our program by helping at registration and with our equipment needs.”

Extreme Hockey 1425 McIntyre St Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.721.8326 Toll Free: 1.877.721.8326 www.extremehockey.net

Expert Advice: Sport & Wellness

Choosing Hockey Sticks Jordan Brisebois, B. Sc. Extreme Hockey and Sport 1425 McIntyre St. Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.721.8326 www.extremehockey.net Sticks are the most commonly misunderstood category of hockey equipment. There are many brands, patterns, sizes, flexes and price points to choose from. Here is how to make your selection from our 12,000 instock sticks easier!

The ratio of durability to performance is inversely proportionate in one piece composite sticks. The most expensive sticks ($199.99 and up) perform at a high level with lower durability as they’re made almost entirely of carbon composite materials (approximately 95 per cent) with minimal fibreglass mixed in.

In the mid-price point area ($129.99$199.99) sticks are an even ratio of carbon composite materials and fibreglass. This price point, our most commonly sold, has good durability with solid levels of performance. The lowest level price point sticks ($129.99 and down) provide incredible durability with their high level of fibreglass composition (approximately 95 per cent).

Size/flex is the most important part of selecting the proper stick; especially with kids. There are 4 sizes of one piece sticks: youth, 30 to 40 flex rating; junior, 50 to 57 flex rating; intermediate, 60 to 75 flex rating; and senior, 77 to 115 flex rating.

Selecting a size depends on strength of the individual and size of hands for shaft selection. When selecting the proper flex, for every inch you cut off a one piece stick, it makes the stick three flex points stiffer.

Another key to stick sizing is the diameter of the shaft. If you want to hand down a senior/intermediate stick to someone who should be using a junior/youth flex, not only will the shaft be too stiff but the child will likely be unable to get his/her small fingers around the shaft. This will hinder the child’s development as a player.

The pattern/curve a player chooses should be suited to his or her playing style. Many

brands carry identical patterns but label them with different players’ names to make it easier to remember the preference.

Sakic-Hall-Backstrom-Draper-CrosbyStatsny has an open toe. The curve starts in the middle of the blade and is designed for players who shoot to score in the upper part of the net and have a quick release snap shot.

Iginla-Malkin-Savard-Hedman has a closed toe. The curve starts in the middle of the blade and is for passing players or defencemen needing to keep the puck low while shooting through traffic.

Kane-Lindros-Zetterberg-Tavares-Datsyuk has a slightly open toe. The curve begins in the early middle of the blade and is for

players who have a well-rounded passing and shooting game as it keeps the puck flat and is excellent for controlling a wrist shot.

Drury-Parise-Staal-Kovalev has a very open toe. The curve begins in the heel and is for players who need to elevate the puck in a short time period and who use a saucer pass as a primary mode of passing.

Lidstrom-Getzlaf-Jovanovski is nearly identical to the above but has a square toe designed with defencemen in mind by making it easier to play a puck that’s tucked in tight to the boards.

Due to the Grey Cup, Rod Pederson’s Roughriders column is unavailable this quarter. In lieu thereof, Fine Lifestyles editor Thom Barker presents a personal essay on the Riders, football and the Grey Cup. Pederson’s column will return in Spring 2011.

A football carol: The ghosts of Grey Cups past, present and future Perhaps too much has already been said about Saskatchewan Roughriders fans and their long-suffering devotion. And when pundits say things like, “Riders fans live and die with each play on the field,” or “the Roughriders are the glue that holds the province together,” they are undoubtedly overreaching.

Football is, after all, only a game.

It is not overreaching, however, to say that the Riders, football and the Grey Cup are

158

FineLifestyles REGINA

common ground for the people of Saskatchewan. I can also say, at least on a personal level, they have served as metaphors for some very important life lessons, such as sportsmanship, loyalty, perseverance and integrity.

The first Grey Cup I attended was the 1973 defensive classic between Ottawa (22) and Edmonton (18). At 10 years old, I was devastated when our Roughies narrowly missed the big game after losing by two

points to the Eskimos in the west division final.

My grandfather was a Roughriders superfan. In my mind’s eye I can still see him in the stands on the 50 yard line at Taylor Field, tall and Romanesque, leaping to his feet when our defence broke through the opposing line and bellowing his trademark battle cry, “Get ‘em in the backfield!”

Grandpa was green and white through and through, but whether the Riders made it or

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDER FOOTBALL CLUB

A football carol: The ghosts of Grey Cups past, present and future not, he always went to the Grey Cup, wherever it was held. In 1973, it was in Toronto.

At that time, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, the CN Tower, was a huge, gaping hole on the Lake Ontario shore that wouldn’t be complete until we returned for the 1976 Cup. Yes, that one. The one in which Ottawa’s Tony Gabriel made that heroic touchdown catch in the waning seconds to rob Saskatchewan of its second championship.

As we made our way to Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) stadium for the ’73 game, I got to carry the big, wooden EE sign Uncle Don had made in honour of the Eskimos. It would have been much easier to cheer for Ottawa—I lived in Ottawa at the time—but Edmonton had beaten Saskatchewan fair and square and, for that, deserved our respect and support. Lesson # 1: sportsmanship.

Plus, although we had moved to the east, we were still westerners. Lesson # 2: loyalty.

Still, as a 10-year-old, the Roughriders ab-

sence felt like a green and yellow tourniquet strangling my heart. To the adults—Grandpa, Uncle Don and my dad—it was just a temporary setback. There’s always next year. Lesson # 3: perseverance.

My most persistent memory of that Grey Cup, though, perhaps my most persistent football memory of all time, had nothing to do with the game. Grandpa had two extra tickets. Within moments of stepping onto the CNE grounds, my anxiety that he might not be able to sell them was relieved when two men approached. They offered Grandpa twice the face value. He refused, saying he would not take one penny more than the price printed on the ticket.

I remember thinking how grateful these men would be that my grandfather was a man of such generosity until Uncle Don shattered my childish naivety with the revelation they were scalpers. They would resell the tickets and probably get four times the value. Don was proven right when two other people eventually filled those seats. Even at my ten-

Sandals Resorts, located in the beautiful Caribbean, offer the ultimate romantic setting for two people in love.

der age, I sensed some kind of injustice in the whole situation. But it didn’t bother Grandpa.

Not one bit. That was just the kind of man he was. You can’t control what other people do; you can only take satisfaction in knowing you did the right thing regardless.

Lesson # 4: Integrity.

Unfortunately, I can’t say I have always lived up to those high moral standards, but that first trip to the Grey Cup continues to give me an ideal to reach for.

Of course, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, football and the Grey Cup are not necessary elements of this allegory; there are plenty of other ways people learn the important values in their lives. But as I fold up and put away my crying towel after this year’s heartbreaker in Edmonton, I salute the Montreal Alouettes.

There’s always next year.

SAVE UP TO

* PLUS RECEIVE FREE NIGHTS *65% off and free night offers valid at select Sandals Resorts.

Minimum 7-night stay required. Blackout dates apply.

Book today and save!

CORNWALL CENTRE 525-3500 or toll free 1-866-525-3502 EAST LANDING PLAZA 352-6955 or toll free 1-866-352-6955 SOUTHLAND MALL 585-0055 or toll free 1-888-571-8679

, , IT S NATURE S SHOW,

HERE ARE THE

BEST SEATS Where Do Your Weekends Take You? 2634 Faithful Avenue Saskatoon, SK 934-3717

www.customcycleandmarine.com

LastingImpression

Norm Wallace: Roots of a Renegade Excerpted from Birth of a Boom: Lives & Legacies of Saskatchewan Entrepreneurs (2009) by Suzanne Paschall (Saskatoon: Prairie Policy Centre).

As a 19-year-old immigrant from Tipperary County, Ireland in 1957, Norman Wallace landed in Vancouver looking for what he and his pals had been promised by the Canadian government–work aplenty. But what they found was just the opposite, especially for anyone tagged with the label “immigrant.”

One Sunday, after searching endlessly the previous week for a job—any job—he returned to his boarding house room and broke down in tears. The next day, while walking down Denman Street in Stanley Park, he finally saw a sign in front of a bank that said: “Tellers needed.” He went to the head office on Granville Street, sweated through, and passed, a 100-question written test, then the manager asked to see his Grade 12 completion certificate, a requirement for the position.

Having only completed Grade 8, the penniless and hungry Norm desperately searched his mind for a solution. Missing out on this job was not an option.

“I don’t have the certificate with me,” he said.

“Well bring it in and the job is yours,” the manager replied.

Norm returned to his room, thinking he

162

FineLifestyles REGINA

might be beaten. Then, he remembered something. He rushed back to the bank office with a piece of paper and handed it to the manager. “It’s in Gaelic,” Norm said.

“Let me translate it.” He read off an officialsounding bit of text indicating that he had completed Grade 12.

In actual fact, the beautiful, scrawling calligraphy acknowledged his proficiency in swimming, not school. But the bit of blarney did the trick and Norm Wallace had his first job in Canada. *** This experience, and others like it in the following years, helped shape the young immigrant into one of Saskatchewan’s and Canada’s most colourful, controversial and successful entrepreneurs.

“In those days, it was dead easy to immigrate to Canada,” Norm says. “Not like today.”

After six months at the bank in Vancouver, he heard from a friend that there were jobs selling roofing and siding in Saskatchewan, so he moved to Regina.

Later, he moved to Winnipeg and had a job with National Cash Register (NCR).

But soon he found a challenge that would keep him occupied for a number of years, at Winnipeg Supply and Fuel, who wanted him to manage a branch in Saskatoon. He remained at Winnipeg Supply and Fuel for 15 years, and learned a lot about managing and building products, which set him up for his next step—running his own business.

Now with a wife, Agnes, a public health nurse, and two young sons to support, Norm felt the need to build more than just

ROOTS OF A RENEGADE

an income. He wanted to build a future for his family.

He opened Wallace Construction in 1972 with $100,000 in inventory.

Then, within six months, he opened the Regina branch. “He barely had Saskatoon up and running when he opened Regina,” Wallace controller Dale Boothman says.

“He had lots of ambition.” Norm’s faith in the Regina branch and its staff would be well rewarded in the future, but there was no way to know that at the time. It was the kind of early expansion that has felled more than one business in the start-up stage.

“We risked everything we had,” Norm says.

“It was go-for-broke. Canadians are very comfortable and used to getting supported by their government. That wasn’t our experience growing up in Ireland, so we didn’t expect hand-outs. We just worked.”

The fiery and passionate business owner was embroiled in his first issue (a lawsuit) within six months, but when that was resolved in the company’s favour, he moved on. Within a few years, he’d developed a small but highly capable and loyal staff.

Though tough and opinionated, Norm turned out to be a great boss. “He’s very generous and loyal to his employees,” says Dale, one of his earliest and longest serving employees of 33 years. “There are a number of people who’ve been with him for 20 to 25 years. He lets employees do their own thing. He’s very trusting of people working for him.”

Wallace Construction became known for being a “renegade” in the construction industry by launching new ideas gleaned from international travel and Norm’s constant search for new and better ways to do things.

“We brought steel studs to Saskatchewan,” Norm says. “Boy, that was a tough sell. But now they’re being used.”

“Steel is cheaper than wood, the walls are straight, it goes up faster, and can be shipped in smaller packages,” he says.

Other innovations included developing an egg-crate like cardboard product (called the Wallace Void Form) that, when fitted between soil and a cement floor, keeps the cement from cracking. The cardboard eventually collapses, leaving the soil six inches lower than the floor, so the cement surface isn’t affected when the soil shifts and settles.

Another innovative product was a blanket for insulating pipes in the cold, northern oil fields, which was inexpensive, lightweight and easy to ship.

Today, Wallace Construction employs 35 people in Saskatoon and Regina; has ex-

port experience in Ukraine, Mexico, China, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States; and lists annual sales in excess of $20 million. They distribute more than 70 construction product lines in 36 categories for more than 80 suppliers in Canada, the U.S. China, Mexico, Germany, France, Belgium, Ireland and Japan.

“I hope to continue starting many new businesses with young entrepreneurs, and I’d like to help people market patents,” Norm says. “I’ve always loved seeing young people I’ve worked with make successes of their companies and have their children grow up to follow in their footsteps. It’s very rewarding.”

It’s a legacy of creating something from nothing that sits very well with the brash kid from Dublin.

FineLifestyles REGINA

163

posters, point-of-sale displays, packaging, storefront design and more for her clients.

She has also been the sole designer for Moose Jaw’s The Little Princess Ball, and worked on the Mosaic® Concert of Hope, The Canadian Cancer Society of Moose Jaw Cancer Survivor’s Calendar 2009 and the Moose Jaw Multiplex campaign.

And Silzer doesn’t let geography get in the way of good design. She says, “I also have clients throughout Canada and as far as Kurdistan. I enjoy working on everything from small to large scale projects. No matter their location, we make it work.”

Silzer recently attended Design City/Print World in Toronto, an exposition featuring the most advanced graphic design tools, services and products from the world’s largest vendors. “I was like a kid in a candy store,” she says. “I look forward to offering my clients quality craftsmanship and a better selection for print media.”

LogoLounge Master Library: 3000 Animal & Mythology Logos published by Rockport Publishers, is available for purchase online.

Featured in Prestigious Design Publication

BY KATHY MERCURE, WRITENOW! COMMUNICATIONS One of Moose Jaw’s most acknowledged graphic designers, Erica Silzer, has had her Fire Monkey Design Studio logo published in a popular graphic designer’s creative reference bible – LogoLounge Master Library, Volume 2: 3000 Animal & Mythology Logos.

Every 18 months, logolounge.com prepares a printed compendium of the top logos submitted by its members worldwide.

“The projects in the book are selected for their quality, timeliness, and relevance, and inspirational nature. We aim to form an effective mix of large and smaller firms, geographies, budgets, and client types,” explains the logolounge.com website.

“I have been a member of the logolounge. com community for two and a half years. It’s a great honour to be selected as one of only 3,000 designers worldwide to showcase a logo in this volume,” says Silzer.

The inspiration for the Fire Monkey Design Studio name and imagery came to Silzer after several days of brainstorming ideas.

“In Chinese astrology, I am the symbol of the monkey and in western astrology I am a fire symbol. I wanted my company brand to showcase my creative thinking, and what better way than a monkey with the power of fire in her hands?” says Silzer.

In the two-and-a-half years of being in business, Fire Monkey Design Studio has definitely made a mark in Moose Jaw. Silzer has crafted identities for some of Moose Jaw’s most popular businesses, including Wrapture Spa, The Hibiscus Boutique, Radiant Skin Clinic, Emerald Art & Framing and Vibe Graphics.

While logo development and branding are specialties of Fire Monkey Design Studio, Silzer also designs brochures, annual reports, magazines, manuals, business cards,

For more information, please contact: Erica Silzer Fire Monkey Design Studio (306) 692-5142 firemonkeydesign@sasktel.net www.firemonkeydesignstudio.com For more information about LogoLounge: www.logolounge.com

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time a year again when just a tee shirt isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to cut it.

Its time to throw on a few layers before heading out of the house so you can survive the rotten Saskatchewan cold. NBS and our brand new store Steady Goods is the place to go if u wanna stay warm this winter and look good doing it. We have new stock coming in almost everyday so the racks and shelves are looking fresh all time.

NBS is also stocked up with everything you need to get snowboarding this winter.

New boards, boots and bindings from Forum and Burton. Also fully stocked with anything else you need to get started riding including goggles from Electric and Dragon. We also will have a huge selection of mens and womens outerwear so you can stay warm and dry all winter. We also do any board maintenance needed to get your shredstick up to par.

318 Main St. N. Moose Jaw, SK Ph:(306)694-4866 snowboard@sasktel.net www.newboardshop.ca

Your Guide 14 High St. E. Moose Jaw. Sk Phone: 306.693.0673 www.jilliandesignelements.com

Lampe Berger

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.

Personal air system from the creator of Lampe Berger, are cold diffused aromachological essential oils to promote well being. This system is conveniently ran by a battery and set on a timer. A wonderful smelling addition to any room.

Starting at $39.95

Starting at $59.95

A gift

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

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

Blown glass wine stoppers, pate knives or appetizer spoons are inexpensive, but very chic.

They are perfect for under $20 gift exchanges.

Glass Art $5 to $20

If you really want to surprise

Customize

your loved one this Christmas, astonish her with this super trendy cow hide area rug. It is the perfect piece to add texture and interest to your room. your love and your decor with special ordered designer furniture just for her. From Canadian manufacturer Van Cow hide $475 Gogh, you can custom order your style of chair or sofa with over three hundred fabrics to choose from.

Chairs from $500-$1000

For the little

reindeer on your list, these adorable holiday socks are inexpensive and fun to give and to receive.

Baby Santa Socks $9

A personalized

White is

hostess gift worthy of a gourmet meal. These monogram marble cheese boards with matching knife is the perfect hostess gift to take to your next dinner party.

Marble cheese board $45

Funny

Christmas ornaments and napkins are the ideal girlfriend gift that is sure to provide some entertainment with a good laugh.

Terra Cotta

Vases under $50

14 High St. E. Moose Jaw. Sk

pottery is always a welcome addition to any space and any wish list.

Vases starting at $50

the hottest color for accessories this season and I adore the organic shape of this sleek and classic vase.

A great gift under $50 for someone special on your list.

Ornament $15

Phone: 306.693.0673 www.jilliandesignelements.com

We invite you to enter our Winter Wonderland to discover an extraordinary array of Christmas Decor.

Happy Holidays

to all our friends and customers from Liz and the staff at Cranberry Rose

We have over a dozen dazzling Christmas trees you can shop from to add to your selection or give as gifts. Our broad range of 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. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be happy to wrap that special gift.

Cranberry Rose 316 Main St. N. Moose Jaw, Sk. Phone: 306.693.7779 www.cranberryrose.com

Fun for All Ages and Levels

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK For 40 years Mission Ridge Winter Park has served the Fort Quâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Appelle area with a level of care and expertise that is well worth bragging about.

One of the key elements to surviving as long as Mission Ridge has is by being open to growing and changing to better serve the evolving needs of their visitors.

Upgrades to Serve You Better Winter may be just beginning but the folks at Mission Ridge Winter Park have been busy for months preparing for another great season of skiing and snowboarding fun. Area Managers Don

Williams and Mike Smith explain that they make it a point to keep Mission Ridge up-to-date. Planning for the upcoming season begins months before the ski hill opens.

This year, there have been many upgrades that have taken place at Mission Ridge including a new safety tunnel from the parking lot to the ski lodge. According to Williams and Smith, with the ski run coming in behind the lodge, pedestrian safety had become a concern. Skiers can now go overtop the tunnel as pedestrians make their way to and from the parking area with ease.

Along with a new chair lift, plans for the future include the installation of a Magic Carpet. For those non-skiers, we

FineLifestyles REGINA

169

finelifestylesregina | fort qu’appelle

need to clarify that it is not a showing of the movie Aladdin nor is Steppenwolf appearing in the lounge any time soon (trust me, we asked). Smith and Williams describe it as a type of moving sidewalk designed to take you up the hill with more ease than a tow rope.

Because of the lack of real snowfall in the area, Area Operators state that all of their snow is man-made. To increase efficiency, a second water pump and six more snow making machines have been added. Combined these two water pumps will convert 10 million gallons of water into snow in less than ten days.

The addition of the lounge gives the lodge a comfortable atmosphere that is perfect to enjoy time with family and friends after a fun day of skiing or snowboarding.

Weekly Specials Mission Ridge offers great weekly specials and invites Fort Qu’Appelle residents and visitors to come out and have some fun.

On Wednesday nights, teachers and education students can enjoy a night

170

FineLifestyles REGINA

of skiing with a free lift ticket. This is a savings of $22.

Friday night is Party Night at Mission Ridge. It’s a great way to unwind after a hectic week with ten dollar lift tickets, half-price rentals plus food and drink specials all night long. Saturdays are Steak Night which is great after working up a hunger on the hill.

“We’re a family-oriented ski hill,” says Williams, “Sunday is Family Day. A family of four can enjoy a day of skiing for just $125 including tax.” He points out that this price includes four lift tickets, four equipment rentals and four lessons, if needed.

Williams also reminds visitors that, while the ski hill is currently open during daylight hours, night-time skiing will begin on December 29 and will be available Wednesday through Friday until 9 p.m.

Mouth-watering Food After spending time out on the hill, breathing in the fresh air and getting plenty of exercise, appetites reach their peak. The staff at Bubba’s Pizza is ready

to help you curb your hunger with a full menu of delicious dishes including tasty breakfast items, fresh salads, flavoursome entrees, overstuffed calzones and of course the best pizza in the valley. All served by friendly staff who are dedicated to giving you service second to none.

Quality Standard Lessons With twenty instructors who are certified with the Canadian Ski Institute Alliance and the Canadian Association of Snow Board Instructors, you can be confident that you are getting the best, most qualified instructors available.

“You will get the same instruction here as at Lake Louise or Sunshine Village,” states Smith.

To expand on this point, Smith explains that Mission Ridge Winter Park is described as a “feeder hill’ which is where people go to learn to ski or snowboard, further develop their skills or just enjoy the fresh air and have fun.

“Get mountain ready at Mission Ridge,” states Smith.

Classes are divided by ability and are designed for individuals of all ages and skill levels.

“We get everyone from kids to grandparents coming out for lessons,” says Williams.

Exercise made Fun and Easy Williams encourages everyone to come out to Mission Ridge for a great experience.

Families will have the opportunity to spend quality time together. Friends will enjoy the laughs and fellowship.

According to Williams, spending a day at the hill is comparable in price to going out for dinner and a movie, the difference is that you get fresh air and exercise that you wouldn’t otherwise.

Close Accommodations Being within the Fort Qu’Appelle town limits, Mission Ridge is within two kilometres of hotels and motels, making it a great getaway for a weekend or winter break.

What are you waiting for?

With so many wonderful services to offer everyone from beginners to highly skilled skiers and snowboarders, it is clear to see why Mission Ridge Winter Park has played such a vital role in providing recreation to Fort Qu’Appelle and area.

The Mission Ridge staff encourages everyone to come out and visit the ski hill. So what are you waiting for? Call 332-5479 or toll free 1-800-550-6857 or visit www.missionridge. ca today.

Mission Ridge Winter Park 800 Sioux Ave. South Fort Qu’Appelle, Sk. Phone: 306 332.5479 www.missionridge.ca

FineLifestyles REGINA

171

Fort Qu’Appelle Forecast:

An Active Winter

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK Though the weather is cooling off, activities are heating up in the town of Fort Qu’Appelle. Being a busy community of about 2,000 residents, Fort Qu’Appelle has a variety of clubs, businesses and organizations that are dedicated to helping you shake off the winter ‘lazies’ and keep you active.

Her earnest dedication to these strong beliefs shines forth as she talks about the many activities in Fort Qu’Appelle that are available for residents and visitors alike.

Lila Banks, Manager of the Fort Qu’Appelle Recreation and Parks Commission, is a firm believer in being and staying active all year long no matter how old or how young an individual is.

She encourages everyone to get out and be active stating that, not only is it beneficial for your physical health, it also enhances your mind and gives you a positive sense of well-being.

Of course, being a small town in Saskatchewan, there is always hockey for all ages. Banks states that this includes eight minor hockey teams and an adult recreational team. She also points out that the town has the Fort Knox, a Junior B team.

“Recreation is an investment for life,” states Banks.

172

FineLifestyles REGINA

“There is always something to do,” advises Banks.

For those who just love to skate, public skating and shinny are scheduled regularly on the events calendar. Once the weather gets a little colder, outdoor skating is available for those who love

to get plenty of crisp, fresh air. Banks also reminds parents that Learn to Skate and figure skating classes are also available.

“We also have pre-school skating and adult skating and walking every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Rexentre,” says Banks.

According to Banks there are currently more than 30 people who take part in walking around the ice area, in the lobby and up and down the stairs of the Rexentre. She goes on to say that a lot of people enjoy the physical benefits of the walking program without having to endure the changing weather elements of a Saskatchewan winter.

“Recreation and active living are essential to personal health; reducing

plenty of fresh air and fun.

Banks also mentions that the Calling Lakes Snowmobile Club does an excellent job at maintaining the trails for those who love to cruise through the area and experience the beautiful scenery the Qu’Appelle Valley has to offer.

“There are also plenty of well-kept walking paths throughout the town and on the north side of Echo Lake,” adds Banks.

Prefer to stay indoors? Banks says there is a variety of recreational programs and clubs such as Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, the Valley Dance Association and more that will help the cold months go by quickly.

For those enjoying their sunset years, the Senior Citizens Association in Fort Qu’Appelle is also a hub of activity over the winter months. Enjoy some great fellowship and participate in activities such as darts, shuffleboard, pool, chair yoga, Scrabble, 500, cribbage, contract bridge as well as duplicate bridge and kaiser.

If you like to ‘shake it,’ line dancing takes place Thursday mornings and old time dancing happens on Friday afternoons.

Young or old, there is plenty of fun and recreation available. Banks encourages everyone to enjoy the winter months in the beautiful town of Fort Qu’Appelle and area.

risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and osteoporosis; and improves mental health,” advises Banks.

planned throughout the season, the curler will have no problem keeping busy this winter.

As with any Saskatchewan community, curling is a central activity in the town of Fort Qu’Appelle. With a variety of leagues including Senior Men’s and Ladies’ plus bonspiels that are being

The Area surrounding Fort Qu’Appelle also provides a wealth of choices for activity and recreation. With both crosscountry and downhill skiing within close proximity, people of all ages can enjoy

The Town of Fort Qu’Appelle Phone (306) 332 5266 E-mail: forttownoffice@sasktel.net

FineLifestyles REGINA

173

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK No matter how new or how old, how big or how small your home may be, the kitchen and bathrooms are key elements. These high traffic areas are highly used and, at times, abused in our busy lives. Eventually there comes a time when renovations are in order.

You may be considering renovating out of necessity. Perhaps the growing needs of your family, or the number of teenagers there are in the house, means installing an additional bathroom. On

174

FineLifestyles REGINA

the other hand, maybe you’re looking to change the décor.

If you’re a prairie girl like me, you know the importance of a well-equipped and functional kitchen not only for cooking those fabulous meals that Mom taught you to make, but also for entertaining guests.

Regardless of your motivations for renovating or building, Hanson Home Hardware in Fort Qu’Appelle offers a

variety of services that will take away the stress and headaches and put you at ease.

In fact, renovation and construction managers Andrew Nance and Andrew Hanson are so conscientious of their customers’ need to be relaxed and have peace of mind, they made a point of having their office in the mezzanine above the lumber yard.

According to Hanson, the purpose

for the ‘out of the way’ office is to provide a quiet place for customers to come and talk about their dreams. Hanson advises that it is important to them to hear directly from the client what they want in a renovation or new building project.

Having a comfortable, quiet place to talk helps to implement that.

“We’re always trying to get the customer’s vision of what they want,” states Hanson.

One way that the Hanson team is able to assist in making that vision a reality, is by providing preliminary sketches which are done up by an expert team called Architectural Solutions, available through the Home Hardware Corporate office. These drawings can be done to the specifications of the client.

Once the initial vision is on paper, it is then easier to determine details such as type of cabinetry, countertops, and flooring.

With Hanson Home Hardware’s Flooring Department as your supplier, you will have easy access to a wide selection of not only the classic quality varieties but all the latest in flooring trends as well. Flooring manager Jocelyn Hanson, states that their highly qualified installers are skilled to handle everything from small repair jobs to customized installs for new home builds and large-scale renovations.

She continues by stating that Hanson Home Hardware Flooring is also there to help answer any questions that customers may have, whether it’s regarding the care and maintenance of your flooring or recommending the proper products for your specific application.

“We try to assist our customers in any way we can,” she explains, “if we don’t have the answers to your questions, we will research until we find them.”

Andrew Hanson goes on to say that it is important that they ensure the customers’ sense of comfort. Hanson Home Hardware offers a one year guarantee on workmanship and materials through the Home Installs program.

“Actually, we often go over and above that service level,” Hanson explains. He tells about garage door openers they have serviced from installs done years earlier, pointing out that customer satisfaction of smaller jobs is very important. Hanson says that they pride themselves in being a small town business but with that comes the responsibility of providing more than excellent service.

Regardless of whether you are building new or renovating, the Hanson team will work hard to keep your project within your timeline and budget. The only limit is your imagination.

Home Hardware Ltd. 190 Broadway St. W. Fort Qu’Appelle, Sk. Phone: 306.332.5212

FineLifestyles REGINA

175

A Small Town Pharmacy with a Big Heart

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK It wasn’t so long ago that seeing your pharmacist meant getting a friendly ‘hello’ followed up with a few questions about how Grandma is doing and if your Dad is cheating on his diet. And more friendly chatter. Handing over your prescription meant handing it over to a long-time friend and neighbour.

Personalized Service Thankfully those days are not gone.

The management and staff at the Pharmasave in Fort Qu’Appelle care about each and every person who visits the pharmacy and make their medical outcome a top priority.

176

FineLifestyles REGINA

Manager Michelle Johns states that some of the store staff members have been there for more than 20 years. The staff has come to know the customers well, grown familiar with their likes and dislikes, as well as, personal information of how well a certain medication works for them. Johns also points out that the pharmacy team will take the time to consult with other health care providers to ensure that you are getting the best care possible.

Qu’Appelle Pharmasave feel they have a lot of strong ties within the area.

School of Wellness

This project involved the participation of two teams of people who met on a weekly basis to discuss various health topics including improving eating habits,

Being a part of the community for almost a century, the folks at the Fort

These ties are why Pharmasave—in association with the All Nations Healing Hospital, the Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations (SAHO), the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council and the University of Regina’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Sciences— participated in the twelve week School of Wellness pilot project.

PHOTOS BY LINDA ASPINALL

becoming more physically active, having a positive outlook and more.

Johns encourages everyone to visit the website for more information at www. schoolofwellnes.ca.

Diabetes Education A Diabetic Educator on staff brings a lot of unique opportunities to educate the public on this multi-dimensional disease. One example is the partnership with All Nations Healing Hospital and File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council to present free monthly information sessions at the hospital open to the public. Also, by providing clinics in the store customers are given a chance to have a more in-depth discussion with the pharmacist.

pharmacist about this program, be sure to ask about the possibility of available funding.

Compliance Packaging Johns also describes the work they do in conjunction with home care providers and family members to ensure that patients are taking their medications properly.

“Often a senior has many medications to take during the day,” explains Johns, “it’s sometimes difficult for them to remember when to take which ones.”

Making a ‘PACT’ with

Pharmacists will package the doses according to date and time of day, assisting patients in taking the proper medications at the appropriate times.

This also assists other care givers in monitoring the doses that are taken.

You

A Community Member

The team at Pharmasave is dedicated to the overall wellness of all who visit them.

As members of the Partnership to Assist with Cessation of Tobacco (PACT) the pharmacists are equipped with tools and training to help their tobacco using clients to quit. When talking to the

Fort Qu’Appelle Pharmasave provides many more services including compression stocking fitting and rentals of living aids (walkers, blood pressure monitors, etc). They also provide informational seminars on a number of health-related topics as well

as supporting events such as the Relay for Life.

Being community members, Johns and the Pharmasave team care about their neighbours and friends, striving to maintain the strong relationships they have established while working to build new ones. Their participation and overall caring attitude for the people of Fort Qu’Appelle is more than a way of doing good business, it’s a way of life that is embraced by their customers.

Recently Johns received a note from a customer, “I just want to say thank you for the many times I’ve been helped by your staff. You are a distinct asset to our community and me, a customer.”

This touching sentiments says it all.

Pharmasave 203 Broadway St.W. Fort Qu’Appelle, Sk. Phone: 306.332.5717 Fax: 306.332.1287

FineLifestyles REGINA

177

Spree by KZ ½ ton towable If you have a large family and need light weight- look no further! The Spree has it all. Sleeps 11 comfortably, has 2 slide outs (living area and bunk area) AND has an outside kitchen! Only 6700 LBS

Minards Mission: To Fit Customers needs and budget with the RIGHT RV!

Flagstaff 5th Wheel This light weight bunk 5th wheel is perfect for those families that love to pull a 5th wheel but do not want to upgrade their truck. This ½ ton towable sleeps 9, has a closet slide in the master bedroom for loads of storage, large slide in the living area and one of our favorites...An outside kitchen!

921 Government Road South Weyburn, Sk. (306) 842-3288 1-877-842-3288 www.minardsleisureworld.com

A Serious Passion For Fun! Minard’s Leisure World

is one of the largest RV Dealerships in Western Canada …BUT.. with a huge difference.

Personalized customer care: Minard’s Top Priority Shopping Atmosphere: Relaxed and Fun

Minard’s Mission: To Fit Customers needs and budget with the RIGHT RV! Minard’s Goal: Each Customer becomes an Ambassador, not only for Minard’s Leisure World but the entire RV experience Gene and Susan Minard are passionate about their business but serious about their customers.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

2011 Upcoming Indoor Shows:

Regina: Agribition Building Feb 10 – 28 Moose Jaw: Exhibition Centre March 3 - 13

921 Government Road South Weyburn, Sk. (306) 842-3288 1-877-842-3288 www.minardsleisureworld.com