FineLifestyles Regina Summer 2012

Summer SUMMER 2012 2012 || VOLUME VOLUME 4 4 ISSUE ISSUE II II

REGINA

PAUL NOLAN’S Improbable Journey BEST OF THE BEST!

Businesses in Regina and Area Saskatchewan Fashion Week CFL Greats in Regina

Budget Blinds is Regina and surrounding area’s #1 choice for all your window covering needs!

Budget Blinds is North America’s largest window covering company, which provides the competitive edge on products and buying power.

Locally owned and operated, Leanne Fisher is proud to call Saskatchewan home again after moving to Alberta for college 13 years ago. “If you ask any of our staff why we do what we do...they will all answer...because we get to meet so many great people”. Our staff makes the difference! In addition to providing customers with education about each product at a competitive price – our staff truly cares about facilitating a fun, professional in-home atmosphere to make the window covering process easy. If it’s having product air shipped and installing at 11 p.m. on a Friday night to prepare for a wedding the following day, or aiding an elder customer with cleaning her windows while we’re up on the ladder – we are different – we go the extra mile!

534 University Park Drive, Regina, Sk. e-mail: reginaadmin@yourbudgetblinds.ca www.budgetblinds.com

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Call to book your free in-home consultation REGINA & AREA: 306.949.2300

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EXPERTAdvice

A Prescription for Your Viewing Comfort During summer, our focus turns to sunglasses, including all of the great prescription (Rx) options that are now available. Clip-ons or Transitions速 lenses are both viable options, but are subject to limitations. Clip-ons are easy to lose, and may rub the frame and lenses, causing damage. Transitions速 lenses are a great comfort feature that we recommend for regular dress eyewear. They provide great UV protection and light control outside, but they do not darken much in a vehicle.

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

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Dedicated Rx sunglasses are a terrific asset.

It is now possible to prescribe many styles, including high wrap frames, thanks to our state-of-the-art grinding machines and software. Lens features have also expanded, with digital surfacing, anti-reflective and anti-fog coatings, as well as rich tints and polarization for glare-free viewing. We produce many Rx sunglasses, matching tints and curves for that factory-made look.

Progressive lenses used to be viewed as unnecessary in sunglasses, but they enhance your near-vision for reading outdoors, and also help you see your watch, phone, golf scorecard or speedometer. Vision continuity is important; if your dress eyewear incorporates progressives, so should your sunglasses - only the brightness changes.

Our New York orders are arriving daily as we prepare for our new mega location in the former Nevada Bobs on Star Lite Street.

Jaw- dropping styles from Chrome Hearts, Gold & Wood, Barton Perreira, Theo, Anne et Valentin, Porsche Design, Tag Heuer and many more will get you excited about treating yourself to Rx sunglasses. We have a multipair promo offering 50 per cent off lenses after the first pair, giving you the chance to experience Rx sunglasses. Just ask us! FLR Ryan Horne, Licensed Optician

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FineLifestyles REGINA

WITH FINE HOMES EDITOR SHERRY MAGNUSON

Summer 2012 VOLUME 4 ISSUE II

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elcome to our summer edition of Regina Fine Lifestyles. This issue offers you some new things, and the “Best of the Best”, profiling many of Regina and area’s best businesses.

The word “best” conjures up many thoughts: quality, advantage, durability and success. These positive and encouraging words convey a sense of excellence.

Check out the more than 30 businesses profiled in this section, and find out more about their products and services. They want to give you their best.

It turns out that this entire issue has an underlying theme of “best” running through it. Saskatchewan-born Paul Nolan graces this edition’s cover; he has obviously given his best to land a lead role on Broadway.

The best of Saskatchewan style abounds in this issue with highlights from the 1st Annual Saskatchewan Fashion Week, some of Dean Renwick’s runway “hits”, and his fashionable, yet practical advice about shoes.

The Business Women of Moose Jaw feature exemplifies what can be accomplished when a group of women settle only for the best – in their goals, in their careers, and balancing their lives, all the while supporting each other and their community.

The Dragons Den highlights some of the best business ideas that are continually abounding in our city and province; so good were these concepts that they caught the attention and favour of the Dragons Den entrepreneurs.

We also bring you the story of how some CFL greats added their support to a Regina community school initiative, with a message intended to help bring out the best in those students.

We are excited to now include Chef Gordon Ramsay in our magazine, and he brings you his best August recipes.

Rounding out this edition is a new directory of services, exposing you to more of Regina’s best businesses.

In short, what do we offer you with this edition? Simply the best.

Like us on Facebook.com/finemags Follow us on Twitter: @finemags

www.finelifestyles.ca Associate Editor Sherry Magnuson sherrym@finelifestyles.ca

Staff Writers Shawna Common shawnac@finelifestyles.ca Nykea Behiel nykea@finelifestyles.ca Dan Grant dang@finelifestyles.ca

Graphic Design and Layout Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca

In-house Design Laura Grzyb laurag@finelifestyles.ca Erica Silzer ericas@finelifestyles.ca

Photography Calvin Fehr www.calvinfehrphoto.com Shawn Fulton www.shawnfultonphotography.com John Morrell www.johnmorrellphotography.ca Krista Erickson kristerickson05@gmail.com

Contributing Writers Tobie Hainstock Mackenzie Brooks G.H. Lewmer Amy Nelson-Mile

Sarah Ferguson Gail Jansen-Kesslar Ryan Holota Ed Willett

Lisa Schick Ryan Howse Maryann Yeoman

Advertising Consultants Brooke Watson Britany Watson Randy Glascock Todd Elik Chelsea Manz Tara Osipoff Valene Eberle

brooke@finelifestyles.ca britany@finelifestyles.ca randyg@finelifestyles.ca todd@finelifestyles.ca chelseam@finelifestyles.ca tarao@finelifestyles.ca valenee@finelifestyles.ca

Models Courtesy of Skylight Model Management www.skylightmodelmanagement.com

Publisher Wayne Unruh 541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, Sk. S4V 2S4 Fine Lifestyles Regina is published four times a year by Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd. publications are copyrighted 2011 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles Regina, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. or its writers. The name Fine Homes Regina, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Is your dresser drawer Is your dresser drawer hearing betterhearing than betteryou? than you?

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What’sInside

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44 FEaTuRE STORiES 14 44 50 72

Saskatchewan Fashion Week COVER: Paul Nolan Gordon Ramsey Recipes Business Women of Moose Jaw

84 Dragons Den 88 CFL Greats in Regina 103 BEST of the BEST

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103 62 DEPaRTMENTS 14 22 44 58 62

Style House and Home arts, Dining and Entertainment Entertainment Calendar Health and Wellness

72 88 98 103

Business Sports, Recreation and Leisure Wheels SPECiaL FEaTuRE: Best of the Best

Pre­K to Grade 12 Gram m ar Study Skills Homework

TODAY IS A GOOD DAY

Reading Writing Math French

Learning shouldn’t stop just because school is out Brains need stimulation all year long; without it, kids can lose academic ground. A summer program at Oxford Learning keeps brains switched on and prevents students from starting next year behind. Which means a better start in the fall, and a better school year. It’s amazing what 8 weeks can do.

Discover for yourself the difference a summer of learning can make.

Say YES! to Oxford Learning this summer.

Call today, or visit oxfordlearning.com

TO CELEBRATE ACHIEVEMENTS

Congratulations, Barry Zapshalla!

Sun Life Financial would like to congratulate Barry Zapshalla of Barry Zapshalla Investments & Insurance Solutions Inc. for being the 2011 Advisor of the Year in Canada. Barry was also recognized as the Sun Life Financial Insurance and Investment 2011 Advisor of the Year.

Since becoming a Sun Life Financial advisor, Barry has consistently provided clients with Barry Zapshalla* outstanding service in the areas of personal and business insurance, savings and retirement products, and employee benefits. Barry and his team at Barry Zapshalla Investments and Insurance Solutions Inc. are committed to the highest level of client service.

Congratulations Barry, on these two outstanding achievements.

Meet the rest of the team at Barry Zapshalla Investment & Insurance Solutions Inc.

306.790.2000 2595 Quance Street East, #203 regina@oxfordlearning.com

Jenice Arnelien* Sales Associate Advisor

Micheline Paradis Advisor Assistant

Jody Smalley Advisor Assistant

Rhonda Hunt* Sales Associate Advisor

Marie Propp Advisor Assistant

Lisa Serray Office Manager

Marissa Boychuk Advisor Assistant

Joann Zapshalla Administration

Barry Zapshalla Investment & Insurance Solutions Inc. 51 Smith Street East, Yorkton, SK S3N 0H4 Tel 1-800-567-9996 Fax 1-888-922-4730 barry.zapshalla@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/barry.zapshalla

Life’s brighter under the sun. *Mutual funds offered by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2012.

Featured Contributors Lisa Schick

Amy Nelson-Mile

Lisa Schick is an up and coming journalist in Saskatchewan. She graduated from the University of Regina with a BA in Journalism. She has worked across the province, most recently as an anchor for a local radio station. Lisa writes about politics, arts, and sports. She has been published in several newspapers and news websites, and she also writes short fiction. She was born and raised in Saskatchewan and has travelled to every corner of the province.

Amy Nelson-Mile is a non-fiction writer who writes corporate material and magazine articles. She has published hundreds of articles in various magazines and newspapers on a wide variety of topics, including the arts, business, education, fashion, health, heritage, human interest, spirituality, and more. She is also a writing instructor, researcher, administrator, and energy worker. She has lived all her life on the Saskatchewan prairie and feels a deep connection to the land here. Her other passions are listening to music, reading, and spending time with her husband and animals. www.amynelsonmile.net

Shawn Fulton

Mackenzie Brooks

Shawn Fulton’s passion for photography began in high school with darkroom developing and printing techniques and evolved at the University of Regina while he was acquiring his BFA in film production. Since, Shawn has all but abandoned the darkroom for digital photography, but still likes to play with antique and Polaroid cameras at social events to give his “party photos” a timeless quality. Shawn has a remarkable talent for lighting, which he attributes to his extensive background in stage and film. His work as a director, cinematographer and animator has been screened at film festivals nationally and he was recently featured on the cover of Saskatchewan Filmpool’s Splice magazine.

Mackenzie Brooks is a freelance writer whose articles appear in several local publications, as well as, magazines in British Columbia and as web copy for a diverse range of clients in the fields of fashion, beauty and advertising. Her work has been featured in ad and media campaigns in event management and professional fundraising content. She is also a featured contributor on www.atrampabroad.com, a website dedicated to travel writing and inspiring wanderlust.

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

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

John Morrell

Edward Willett

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

Edward Willett is the award-winning author of more than 40 books of fiction and nonfiction for adults and children, and the former editor of Fine Lifestyles magazines.

His most recent novel is the young adult fantasy novel Song of the Sword, set in Regina, the first book in a five-book series called Shards of Excalibur, published by Montreal’s Lobster Press. This October his first adult fantasy novel, Magebane, written under the pseudonym Lee Arthur Chane, will be released by DAW Books. From September 2011 to May 2012, Willett will be writer-in-residence at the Regina Public Library.

www.jmorrell1.photobiz.com/cart

www.edwardwillett.com

FrOm Dreams TO THe

Sa S katc h e wa n

FaShion week:

Runway

BY SaRah FeRGUSon PHOTOS Shawn FULton

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askatchewan. A land of never-ending wheat fields, endless skies and…high fashion? While some nay sayers might tell you that Saskatchewan’s fashion landscape is nonexistent, don’t let them fool you; the land of living skies is actually home to a number of exceptionally gifted fashion designers.

The first ever Saskatchewan Fashion Week was held in Regina from May 10 to 12, and there’s no doubt that it left an impression on all who took part. The one-of- a- kind event gave the province’s most talented designers a chance to open their closets and showcase their passion for fashion to local audiences. If fanfare is any indication of success, this year’s event certainly won’t be the last.

“How can we do this?”

It all began with a business plan. Last fall, Chelsea O’Connell, a Regina resident, entrepreneur and graduate of Lethbridge’s College of Fashion Design attended a meeting of the Regina Fashion Collective. Among the attendees were Candyce Fiessel and Chris Pritchard, two cousins who work in Regina’s hair industry. During the meeting, Candyce and Chris proposed holding an event that would bring all members of the Saskatchewan fashion industry together. “They asked everyone ‘How can we do this?’ ” Chelsea said. “That’s when I put up my hand and revealed that I had a business plan I’d been working on for two and a half years for Saskatchewan Fashion Week.” The three directors agreed to meet for coffee to discuss their ideas, and a week later, the plans for the event were set in motion.

A 31 member executive committee was assembled, and over time, the team managed to recruit over 120 volunteers to help the event run smoothly. “It’s a collaborative event, and a huge committee,” Chelsea said. “We couldn’t do it with just three directors, or a few paying members.”

“It’s not just about the designers” Chelsea is quick to point out that Saskatchewan’s fashion industry isn’t just about clothing. “It’s not just about the designers,” she said. “The industry also includes retailers, photographers, journalists and stylists.”

The director also said that one of the main functions of fashion week was to make the industry accessible to everyone. “You don’t need to follow the New York or Paris runway shows,” she said. “Every day, you make a conscious decision about what you’re going to wear, so fashion affects everyone, whether they realize it or not.”

And Saskatchewan Fashion Week is a nonprofit event, Chelsea explains. “It’s set up so all proceeds will go to the Regina Fashion Collective, to help nurture the growth of local designers,” she said. “We all want to work together to grow our economy and our culture.”

Chelsea says her drive to make the event succeed comes from the fact that she looks at Saskatchewan’s fashion industry from a student’s perspective. “Many people who love fashion go to schools in Alberta, Vancouver or Toronto,” she said. “I want to build an industry so that students will come back to Saskatchewan, have a career here and do what they love.”

“There’s some amazing talent in this city” Jeannie Straub is the event coordinator for Saskatchewan Fashion Week. For the past decade, Jeannie made a name for herself while working on a number of cultural projects as an event consultant. Jeannie is best known around Regina for her efforts that helped turn the Regina Folk Festival into

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an international event. She now runs ODIDODI Design and Production, and says she was “sitting in Candyce’s chair getting her hair cut” when she was asked to help coordinate Saskatchewan Fashion Week.

“It was really fun to launch a first ever event in Regina,” Jeannie said. “There’s some amazing talent in this city…the ladies and men that were on that organizing committee are real pros at what they do.”

Jeannie is quick to give credit to the passionate spirit of the fashion week organizers, and says it’s because of their drive that the event was such a smashing success. “The ideas and passion was already there-- I just helped bring it all together,” she said.

And though Jeannie says there were many doubters in the community who felt the group couldn’t pull it off, she was optimistic that the event would turn out to be successful. “We were definitely up for the challenge,” she said with a twinkle in her eye.

Kick off The event kicked off in downtown Regina, in collaboration with Cornwall Centre’s “Break out your Style” campaign, which featured Saskatchewan models sporting fashions from several stores, including the newly constructed Aeropostale and well known retailer Le Chateau. Cornwall Centre was eager to jump on board as one of the event’s key sponsors, said Krista Bebeau, who is Cornwall Centre’s Marketing Manager.

“Saskatchewan has a very vibrant fashion industry so we teamed up with a number of local stylists, makeup artists, and photographers,” Bebeau said. “For Cornwall Centre, it just made sense,” she added. “It was happening at the other end of the street and we play a huge role in the retail business… we just want to support the fashion industry.”

Saskatchewan Fashion Week also caught the eye of other major sponsors, including the City of Regina, Regina Downtown, and several private investors, including Dilawri Infiniti. In addition, the Regina Hotel Association’s two year commitment to the event insures that funding will be in place for next year’s Fashion Week as well.

Fashion elements For Candyce, the idea of Saskatchewan Fashion Week stemmed from industry mixers within the profession. “Through industry mixers, we get to know each other, find sponsors, build relationships, and then we can expose the talent we find,” she said. And so far, unifying the community through group mixers has really paid off. “We’ve really gotten to know each other, and we’re all friends,” Candyce said.

Several other elements attracted attention during fashion week. The Swag Lounge was an extremely popular hangout before runway shows, and featured merchandise from a variety of successful businesses and samples of eclectic food from a variety of local eateries.

Trunk shows were another popular hangout, and were held the day after each runway show in the Regina Fashion Collective

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Chelsea O’Connell

space, above Loggie’s Shoes on Hamilton Street. There, many designers showcased the clothing that was featured on the runway the night before, and talked freely with customers and fashion fans alike.

Featured Designers Twenty-nine emerging and established Saskatchewan designers and six local retailers participated in Saskatchewan’s first ever fashion week, and many say it was an opportunity that they will never forget. The ingenuity and originality of the designs that graced the catwalk during the event’s runway shows made a lasting impression on everyone who saw them—and on the designers themselves. Many worked for days, and were sewing their designs right up until the moment the model wearing them stepped out onto the catwalk.

“I think that when people see the looks come down the runway, and they realize that someone sewed that themselves, dreamt that up, envisioned it and made it happen in this locality, they will be amazed, and might call them up to get that dream outfit they’ve always wanted,” Candyce said.

Beryl Wong, a Regina resident whose work oozes feminine appeal, and features flowing lines with bright colorful fabrics was astounded by the attention her designs attracted on the catwalk. “I couldn’t believe that was my stuff out there, getting all that applause,” she said. Wong, who spent many back to back nights glued to her sewing machine, admitted it was hard to go back to her day job when the show was over. “I really love what I do,” she said.

So was Saskatchewan’s first ever fashion week as successful as its directors and organizers had hoped? All three nights featured sold out shows, averaging 375 attendees per night. Many designers finished showing their work at fashion week with more fans and friends than before, and everyone involved was glad to be a part of it all. After witnessing the success, glitz and glamour of everything the Saskatchewan fashion industry has to offer, one question remains— how to make next year’s event even better. FLR

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flare

EUROPEAN CLOSES SASKATCHEWAN FASHION WEEK

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By Tobie HainsTock PHOTOS sHaWn FULTon

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askatchewan Fashion Week ended on a high note in May 2012. The shows were superb with fashions by the finest designers in our province.

Closing the show was the latest collection

by Regina’s own Dean Renwick of Dean Renwick Design Studio. Dean’s designs in this collection were greatly influenced by his recent trip to Europe where he visited Ireland, Spain, Italy and England.

During his time abroad, Dean says that he really picked up on the strong influence that religion has on everything throughout the culture. Some of the fabrications used in this collection were purchased in Europe which also manipulated his designs.

One of the most memorable moments during Dean’s European trip was when he visited a bullfighting ring. The first one ever built is located in the beautiful community of Ronda, Spain. Standing in the middle of the ring was a surreal experience for Dean who noted the bareness and simplicity of the building.

This experience was instrumental in giving the collection what Dean describes as a, “Post Apocalyptic...almost gothic look.”

There are many subtleties throughout the collection that add a unique touch.

For example, Dean points out that the Irish wool coat (made from authentic Irish wool) includes an age old prayer, Lord, clothe me in the robe of innocence.

Another detail worth pointing out is the buttons on the man’s red vest; they are skulls – contributing to the gothic flare of the collection.

The drama in Dean’s collection is strongly evident. “These are pieces that are made for gala events,” states Dean, “they are more haute couture than ready-to-wear.”

“In the end, what I was really saying here was that religion shines through everything,” he continues.

Dean also expresses his appreciation to everyone who helped make his show a success, including models Teri Taylor, Kristen Reed and Jeff Knoblauch.

Jewellery was by Detailz, hair by Grant Bray and stylings by Riley Lawson – to all of whom Dean extends warm gratitude for an excellent job. FLR Models - Jeff, Tori & Kristen

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STEPPIN’ IT

UP

BY DEAN RENWICK

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ou know what to expect as soon as you hear it. The sound steadily approaches and as you look, your expectations are confirmed. A woman walks by appearing very “put together” and the clacking heels of her great looking shoes are telling everyone, “Check me out.”

It’s not just a matter of simply walking into a store and walking out with a new pair of heels.

Nothing is that easy. Remember ladies, the problem with heels is balance. When wearing heels you want to look elegant, sophisticated and graceful. The secret to this is practice, practice, practice - there’s nothing worse than seeing a beautiful woman walking around looking like Bambi on ice! That’s why I always send my grad girls home and tell them to vacuum in their heels. It gives them time to get used to walking around in the shoes, and their mothers don’t mind getting some extra housework done either.

There are a few things to consider when picking out your shoes for that special occasion or great new outfit.

First, don’t cheap out. The old adage “you get what you pay for” is so true when it comes to shoes. In almost all cases, the more expensive the shoe, the better quality and more comfortable it is.

Are you on a budget? Watch for end of season sales. Try to stick with shoes made of natural materials. Leather conforms to your foot, unlike plastic that makes your foot sweaty and swell up.

Always pick the right size of shoe. Don’t pull the “ugly stepsister” trick and try jamming your poor feet into shoes that are too small or too narrow. Beautiful slender shoes that look like dainty little

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slices of pizza can make your feet look like bloody pizza slices with corns, calluses and bunions when wearing the wrong size.

When choosing your shoe, keep in mind that some shoes are better seen when stepping out of a taxi or limousine, but they can be very harsh on your feet and back when walking or standing.

There is no disputing that high heels are sexy. Your legs look shapely, your calves are sculpted as your pelvis thrusts forward, and your derrière tilts upward. This all combines to create a sexier look and stance for a woman, and can even add a bit of height. But too much of a good thing can cause your body “disease”. Many styles of high heels will stretch the foot, causing an unnatural curve and breaking blood vessels. Wearing heels all the time can cause shrinkage of the back calf muscles. Constant pressure on the balls of the feet also causes uneven weight distribution, making the lower back arch more than usual. This extreme curve can be the main contributor to pain in the upper and lower regions of your back. This is why it is important to change up your heel size as much as possible. In fact, a wedge is one of the most supportive and comfortable heels available.

As a fashion accessory, the right pair of shoes can make or break the outfit. For something different when stepping out, try some colour blocking. Accessorize that little black dress with hot pink pumps, a yellow purse and bright turquoise necklace.

You’ll be sure to turn heads.

For an elongated leg, a nude shoe creates a visually unblocked line, and helps balance the outfit by keeping the colour up top.

At the Queen’s Jubilee, Princess Kate’s nude shoes with her allred ensemble helped to complete her look.

If you opt for the new shoes with tassels, chains and beads, keep the rest of your look cleaner and more streamlined. Make your fabulous shoe the main focus.

With better scientific understanding of posture and balance, great looking shoes are no longer the taboo they once were.

Selection of style and comfort is at an all-time high. There is a huge style explosion of architectural heels featuring plenty of comfortable bells and whistles that also look sexy and chic.

For women, there seems to be something very therapeutic about shopping for shoes. It’s like buying a new hat - it just feels good.

Shoes are sexier than handbags or any other accessory and will draw an amazing amount of attention. A comfortable shoe is static and reliable. Toni Collette’s ‘In Her Shoes’ character said, “Shoes always fit, unlike clothes.”

I urge you to go ahead and indulge. Buy the trendy shoes and the casual shoes and the sexy shoes…just make sure you get comfort too. FLR

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THE

DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS...

By Meredith heron

W

hat sets a designer apart from others with good taste or a great eye? Details. Knowing when to add or leave alone is an art form unto itself. Often though, there is a practicality that lies within.

I’m guilty of not necessarily articulating the how and why, but the client appreciates the many little decisions I’ve made along the way to ensure that their project has a curated feel that evolved over time.

Trade Secrets There is a misconception that working with a designer will cost you an outrageous amount of money. If you are upfront with the budget you have to work with, most designers can find a way to work with you, even if it is just for a brief consultation. Where the true value and savings comes in after hiring a designer, is the way a standard item such as a sofa can be transformed with a few minor modifications. It’s the customization of a standard item without actually having it custom made.

Other times, it is entirely worth having furniture custom made. Clients routinely try store floor models out and say “if only”. In my experience, custom is often a more cost-

effective solution in the long run, not to mention a great investment. I’m happy to say that the trend now in design is to hold off and wait until you can invest in something you will love versus the immediacy of buying something made overseas that comes folded up in a box with allen keys for assembly.

My favourite go-to modification is to change the standard two or three seat cushions to one long bench seat. No one likes to sit in the cracks; it’s as simple as that. If you are a napper, this is ideal. You just have to remember like with all seat cushions, you have to flip them weekly so you get an even wear on the cushion.

Embellishments Adding nail heads or contrast piping to upholstery is probably my second favourite way to add a custom detail to a regular item. Sometimes this can be done after the fact, but mostly I prefer to add my requests to the initial work order. Another easy change: wood finish. I will routinely change out the colour of the wood legs on a chair. I’ll opt for a painted finish in a light creamy grey versus the standard espresso finish (If you pronounce it expresso, I’m having your deported).

Fabrics Adding pizazz with fabrics is not something that everyone can do well. Sure people can pick out a popular fabric, and pair it with another. Mixing patterns however, seems to be something few people can do well. Modifying a pattern is relatively easy, but it is often overlooked. Here a stripe has been cut and then sewn on the bias to create a chevron pattern. If you note, the thinness of the stripe makes this feel far more elegant and expensive than many of the chevron fabrics available for sale printed as such. They have then taken the stripe and run it vertically to create a border. Simple, but brilliant.FLR

AFTER

AFTER An eye for colour and a sense of style gives a new look to this Cathedral area home. Reversing colour schemes between the island and wall cabinets is a contemporary look that adds pizazz.

“When wecolour wereschemes lookingbetween updatethe our 12 year old cabinets kitcheniswe turned to “The Bevelled Edge” for Reversing island and wall a contemporary look that adds pizazz. their wide selection of products and expertise.

After selecting a couple of laminate options they “To update our 12 year old kitchen, we chose The Bevelled Edge for their wide selection of products and expertise. did rest and withinoptions, a few weeks our akitchen wasthey transformed.

We painted cabinets Wethe selected laminate and within few weeks transformed our kitchen.the Wemaple painted the maple that had to yellowed overthe time to compliment selections. has beenlook 2 years since cabinets complement laminate selections. Itthe has laminate been two years, and our It countertops as good as the they installed the countertops and could not be happier! They look as good now as the day day they were installed.

We couldn’t be we happier!” they installed.”

Garywere & Keith RERE FOFO BEBE

Gary & Keith

COUNTERTOPS COUNTERTOPS TRANSFORMING TRANSFORMING ROOMS ROOMS 24

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Countertops Countertopsareareoften oftenthethefocal focalpoint pointof ofa a room.

AA splash of of new colour and pattern cancan room. splash new colour and pattern immediately jump your home forward into thethe immediately jump your home forward into 21st century.

Combine your carefully chosen 21st century. Combine your carefully chosen counters with new wall tiletile and a fresh coat of of counters with new wall and a fresh coat coordinating paint, and thethe result is breathtaking. coordinating paint, and result is breathtaking.

Many Manyhome homeowners ownerschoose chooseto tokeep keeptheir their existing cabinetry, and useuse new countertops to to existing cabinetry, and new countertops reinvigorate thethe room. reinvigorate room.

Keeping softand and neutral, Keeping colours colours soft neutral, but definitely updating updating the look. “We our but definitely thedid look. counters andour tile counters backsplashand through “We did tile The Bevelled Edge. From choosing the backsplash through The Bevelled materials, through to installation, Lorna, Edge.and From choosing the materials, John the rest of the team gave us the through to installation, Lorna,one John personalized, courteous service can only family business.We andget thethrough rest ofathe team gave us enjoy the beauty and functionality of our the personalized, courteous service countertops daily and know that we will one can onlyforget through a family many years to come!” business.We enjoy the beauty and & Doug functionality of ourJacquie countertops daily and know that we will for many years to come!”

Jacquie & Doug

BEFORE BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

BEFORE BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

BEFORE BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

“Our“Our countertops look fabulous! countertops look fabulous!

WeWe hadhad great service in the in store the great service theand store installation went perfectly.

I had to do and the installation wentIfperfectly. it all over again, I would stick with The If I had to do it all over again, I Bevelled Edge. I love my kitchen now!” would stick with The Bevelled and Tammy Edge. I love myChris kitchen now!”

Chris and Tammy

“I love solidsolid surface countertops!

“I love surface countertops! a unique feelthat thatisis TheyThey havehave a unique feel warmer than stone.

The integrated warmer than stone. The integrated sink and sealed surface makes sink cleaning and sealed surface makes bathrooms a breeze!” cleaning bathrooms a breeze!”

Lorna

Lorna

From From left left to to right: right: Neil, Neil, John, John, Lorna Lorna and and Grant Grant

1145 1145 Rose Rose Street Street Regina, Regina, Sk. Sk. Phone: Phone: 306.790.8488 306.790.8488 www.thebevellededge.com www.thebevellededge.com

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25

ALLERGY PROOFING YOUR HOME

BY SHELL BUSEY

E

ach spring, tiny pollen particles are released from trees, weeds, and grasses, causing seasonal allergies, commonly referred to as hay fever. While pollen is one of the leading causes of seasonal allergies, irritants inside the home may be to blame as well. Individuals with pollen allergies can develop sensitivities to other allergens such as dust mites, pet dander and mould spores. The first step in treating allergies is to avoid what you are allergic to. The following are effective ways of reducing exposure to allergens inside your home.

Minimize Exposure to Dust Mites Allergy to dust mites is one of the most common causes of allergies in the home. They are microscopic bugs that feed off human skin, and are therefore found in great abundance where we live. Dust mites live in mattresses, pillows, beddings and carpets. Some measures to minimize the problem of dust mites include:

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• Encase your mattress and pillows with specially made dust mite mattress covers.

Air permeable are more comfortable for the mattress. Less expensive plastic or vinyl covers can be used for the box spring. Covers should be washed or wiped down weekly.

• Wash all bedding sheets and pillow cases in hot water weekly.

• Avoid feather pillows and down comforters.

Purchase washable pillows, comforters and blankets and wash them in hot water once a month.

• Keep your bedroom free of clutter: books, upholstered furniture, fabric curtains, stuffed toys and boxes are dust collectors.

• Stuffed toys should be washed in hot water or kept overnight in a freezer to reduce dust mite levels. Avoid giving kids with allergies stuffed toys, as these can collect dust.

• Hard surfaces and window blinds should be cleaned every week with a damp cloth.

• Vacuum rugs and carpets at least once a week. It is best to use a central vacuum that vents to a garage or outside. Vacuum cleaners with a HEPA filter may prove some benefit.

viruses, pet dander, dust mites, air pollution and even cigarette smoke.

• Dust mites do not live in air ducts. If you have a pet you should have your ducts cleaned every 3 years. If you do not, every 5 years is sufficient.

• Check and clean or replace your furnace filters with a good quality filter on a monthly basis. Check the M.E.R.V. rating (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value). The higher the M.E.R.V. rating, the more efficient the filter is at removing air particles.

• Installing an intake filter on the air supply reduces the entry of dustladen air before it enters the ductwork and furnace by filtering and removing dust from the air stream. Be sure to clean these filters regularly.

• Clean carpets, rugs and upholstery regularly. This will help to reduce the circulation of dust and dust mites in your home.

Control Humidity

• If you can, remove carpets, rugs and heavy curtains from your bedroom.

Consider installing hardwood, cork, linoleum and tile on floors. Hard surface floors should be cleaned with a damp mop regularly.

Keep the humidity in your house below 50 per cent; dust mites don’t like to live in a place with low humidity. Ideal humidity is 30 to 40 per cent. Humidity is measured by a hygrometer which can be obtained from hardware stores.

• People with allergies should also avoid airborne irritants, including tobacco smoke, aerosols, paint, perfumes, cleaning products or other strong odors or fumes.

• Install exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen that exhaust directly to the outside.

• Consider installing a Central Air Cleaner or Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) by Lifebreath. I have recently tested an air purifier called IQAir. It stops the smallest, most harmful particles in the air, all the way down to 0.003 microns – the smallest particles that exist. That includes

• Let your bathroom fan run for one hour or longer after you shower or bathe.

• Let your kitchen fan run for 20 minutes after cooking.

• Seal up air leaks with weatherstripping and caulking to improve winter humidity conditions and reduce your heating bill.

Controlling Dust when Remodelling • Preparations should be done during a home remodelling project to reduce allergens caused by dust particles spreading throughout the rest of the home.

• Inform the contractor about any allergies.

• Seal off the area to be remodelled with plastic sheets; leave plastic sheeting up until cleanup from the job is complete.

• Open windows in the room being remodelled and set up a fan to exhaust air towards the outside.

• Close and seal the vents with polyethylene in the area being remodelled so that dust won’t travel though the air ducts.

• Change your furnace filter often since it will pick up more particles than usual.

• Vacuum and sweep daily to prevent dust from spreading.

Note: Have heating ducts professionally cleaned after renovations as well as new home construction, as there is no way to prevent 100 per cent sawdust and other building materials from finding their way into vents. FLR For more home improvement information, to send Shell an email, to find a reliable contractor in your area, or to watch Shell’s new ‘Ask Shell’ webcast program, go to

www.AskShell.com FineLifestyles

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27

EXPERTAdvice How Can we Profit from the Strong Real Estate Market in Saskatchewan?

AFTER BEFORE

Di Thompson

Simply Stunning Designs phone: 306.585.0775 | cel: 306.581.7750 dithompson@sasktel.net www.simplystunningdesigns.ca

Many new immigrants, contract workers, job seekers and entrepreneurs are coming to Saskatchewan. This creates great opportunities for strong real estate market sales, especially in the $250,000 to $400,000 range. Your home will probably sell quickly if it is in that price range.

Did you know that following advice from a home stager can also increase your profit?

Studies show that more than 65 per cent of people want a home that is ready to move into, and that their purchase is not just based on size, price or neighbourhood, but also on their emotions.

We are trained to determine what type of buyer is most likely to purchase the home. We also assess repairs or touch ups that will provide the best return, how to use the available furniture, or we will rent furniture and accessories to stage a home.

During a client consultation, I first check the curb appeal before entering a house. I make notes about what could help that first impression before a buyer gets to your door. Inside the home, I pay attention to odours, space for shoes and coats, and whether the nearest rooms

I made suggestions in this room to repaint the fireplace columns and mantle to create more contrast and presence. I suggested the TV be centered in the space and that the speakers be put back up to hide the hanging wires. The right amount of furniture made it comfortable and inviting This home sold in four days.

have an appealing overall effect. I check floors, walls, ceilings, lights and windows for needed repairs, and I might suggest different paint colours. The client gets a list of suggested improvements, and planning starts for staging their home to its best advantage. Home staging is quickly becoming the best way to market and sell your home, and if not used, you may be helping your competition sell first.

Staging is also extremely effective at increasing rental property value. The following suggestions can help if you have a suite, or want to buy a house with rental capacity: • Update the kitchen. This room takes the most wear and tear, and is also the most attractive area when renting. A reconditioned fridge and stove and repainted cupboards with new handles can create a new look the renter would find attractive.

• Update the bathroom. Make sure everything is sealed and watertight if you can’t put in a new tub or shower. New taps and paint also work wonders.

• Stage the suite with enough new or used comfortable and relaxing furniture.

• Add lights, curtains, bedding, towels and dishes.

• Include TV, internet and home security.

• Tie all the rooms together with enough added colour and contrast and a few accessories to increase the appeal.

Renters will jump at the chance to have such a beautiful suite.

Staging can almost double the value of your suite, and the incurred cost can be quickly regained. A well-kept home sells faster and for a better price.

Appearances matter in our society, and your home is no exception. How you present your home to potential buyers has a major impact on the price you get and how quickly it will sell.

Di Thompson – Owner, Lead Designer of Simply Stunning Designs I took my staging training in Regina in September 2006 through the Canadian Staging Professionals. I completed an interior design course in the early 1990s, and have been artistic all my life. FLR

The Floor Store

FLOORS BY DESIGN LTD. 104 Hwy 47 South Estevan 206 4th Avenue E. | Regina, Sk. | 306.359.6300 306.634.5588 email: info@floorsbydesign.ca FineLifestyles

REGINA

29

Your Yard as a Beautiful outdoor oasis

By Ryan HOWSE

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E

veryone with their own home and lawn wants to make them look as beautiful as possible. It’s often hard to know where to start. That’s where Rispens Landscaping comes in.

In business since 2007, Rispens Landscaping was founded by brothers Philip and Anton Rispen.

They immigrated to Canada from the Netherlands in 2003 with degrees in horticulture and agriculture. They spent the intervening years studying the Canadian market for trends and ways to make their business stand apart from the competition.

Philip and Anton decided they could make a difference and standout by offering a more personalized experience for their customers. Philip says, “A lot of people like to have more of an outdoor oasis. They actually want to spend time in their backyard, rather than being there to just cut the grass.” They achieve this with a large variety of yard features such as bubblers, waterfalls, natural stone and unique fences.

Make your yard your Own The key to having a fantastic backyard is to make it your own, completely unique. Rispens Landscaping has a number of different fences for your needs, including PVC, SimTek and wood and wrought iron fences.

Homeland PVC vinyl fences are designed in such a way that the long-term exposure to the sun will not damage them or alter their colour. They will not chalk, fade, crack or peel. They also have a tensile strength five times greater than that of wood.

They are even better for the environment because they don’t require the chemicals that wood needs for treatment or paint.

Another fence which is becoming more popular is SimTek Stonewall fencing.

This comes in six shades and looks like granite, but doesn’t require the initial cost or maintenance that granite does.

Philip says, “We’re selling this because it’s something different. Not everybody has it yet, and it has yet to become a commodity. It’s also very durable compared to any other fence on the market.”

SimTek is made out of recycled materials, and yet is incredibly durable and resistant to wear. It has been UV-stabilized to keep its colour throughout its lifetime.

It can easily resist the wild fluctuating temperatures of Saskatchewan.

Rispens Landscaping also uses plants, shrubs and trees from the prairies because they are hardy against the harsh Saskatchewan climate.

Quality Products and Quality Service Rispens Landscaping was nominated for the Better Business Bureau’s 2009 Torch Award in home construction. Rispens Landscaping provides more than just quality products and excellent workmanship. Anton says, “We have excellent customer service from start to finish. We provide a lot of after sale support. If our clients have any questions we do our best to help them. We pride ourselves on making the customer happy.” FLR Rispens Landscaping 1450 Park Street 306-699-7737 Philip@rispenslandscaping.ca

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31

EXPERTAdvice Advice EXPERT CreateBetter Better Create OutdoorLiving LivingWith Withaa Outdoor ScreenedEnclosure Enclosure Screened

DonLarwood Larwood Don

DGLSuncoast SuncoastScreen ScreenEnclosures Enclosures DGL 16Lancaster LancasterPlace PlaceRegina, Regina,Sk Sk 16 306.761.1801 306.761.1801 www.dglsuncoast.com www.dglsuncoast.com Whatfirst firstcomes comestotomind mindwhen whenyou youthink think What summer? Do Do you you think think about about sunny sunny ofof summer? days,barbeques barbequesand andspending spendingtime timeoutoutdays, doorsininthe thefresh freshair? air?What Whatabout aboutbugs, bugs, doors mosquitos,wind windand andrain? rain?Why Whyfight fighteleelemosquitos, mentsthat thatyou youcan cancontrol controlwith withaascreened screened ments patio,deck deckororthree threeseason seasonroom? room? ininpatio,

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Screened inin patios patios and and three three season season Screened rooms are becoming more common rooms are becoming more common inin back yards yards and and on on front front porches. porches. They They back becomean anextension extensionofofthe thehome, home,with with become comfortablefurniture, furniture,fireplaces fireplacesand andhot hot comfortable tubs,lamps, lamps,curtains curtainsand andtelevisions. televisions.You You tubs, feellike likeyou youare areoutside outsidewithout withoutall allthe the feel peskyfactors. factors. pesky

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The temperature temperature within within the the screen screen The enclosurecan canbe beideal. ideal.ItItisisnot notlike likesitting sitting enclosure thedirect directsun sunon onhot hotdays. days.The Theroom room ininthe can be monitored by installing ceiling can be monitored by installing ceiling fansfor forextra extraair airflow flowororpatio patioheaters heatersfor for fans eveningsand andthe thecooler coolermonths. months. evenings

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You can also temperature on cooler days. You can also enjoyyour yourroom roomlong longafter afterothers othershave have enjoy movedinside insideby byadding addingaapatio patioheater. heater. moved Theroom roomalso alsoprovides providesspace spacetotostore store The outdoorpatio patiofurniture furnitureover overthe thewinter, winter, outdoor removingthe thehassle hassleofofpacking packingititaway awayinin removing storage sheds. storage sheds.

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Add-onsor orFree FreeStanding Standing Add-ons Unlikeother othercompanies, companies,DGL DGLSuncoast Suncoast Unlike Screen Screen Enclosures Enclosures custom custom builds builds each each room room on on site. site. We We retrofit retrofit because because all all homes homes are are different different and and may may include include various variousdeck decksizes, sizes,roof rooflines linesand andposts. posts.

There Thereare aremany manyvariables. variables.An Anenclosure enclosure can canbe bebuilt builtas asadd-on add-ontotoaahouse houseororas asaa free standing structure over a pool or hot free standing structure over a pool or hot tub. This minimizes the debris that can tub. This minimizes the debris that can get into the water. Less cleaning means get into the water. Less cleaning means more relaxation time and enjoyment. more relaxation time and enjoyment.

Call us for your free quote today, and Call forcreate your free quote today, and let usus help better outdoor living let us help create better outdoor living for you. for you.

Enjoy the Benefits Enjoy the Benefits Being able to enjoy all the outdoor Being able to nuisance enjoy all isthe outdoor benefits without something benefits nuisance we need without to engineer.

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Finding the home of your dreams and making it yours was the hard part.

Protecting it is easy!

To find out how, just visit us at: 4615 Albert Street

302 University Park Drive

(South Albert, next to McDonald’s near Gordon Road) Phone: 306-789-8384

Auto

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(Just Northeast of Arcola Avenue) Phone: 306-791-3474

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Travel

www.saskinsurance.com

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Surety

• CommerCial • residential • PVC FenCing • auto glass • • CommerCial • residential • PVC FenCing • auto glass •

Our Quality and Service iS clear Our Quality and Service iS clear From windows and doors to trucks, cars (domestic & foreign), boats, campers, farm equipment and more. after 32 years, we know the key to our success is customer satisfaction.

From windows and doors to trucks, cars (domestic & foreign), boats, campers, farm equipment and more. after 32 years, we know the key to our success is customer satisfaction.

For all your glass needs, call the experts today!

For all your glass needs, call the experts today!

Family owned and operated since 1979. www.gl ac ierglass.com

410 Quebec Street, regina, SK tf: 1.888.545.3990 f: 306.949.8872 e: orderdesk@glacierglass.com

www.gl ac ierglass.com

410 Quebec Street, regina, SK tf: 1.888.545.3990 f: 306.949.8872 e: orderdesk@glacierglass.com

Family owned and operated since 1979.

Sparkle and Shine.

You make the list.

We’ll get it done.

Brian and Aaron Winch have operated Merry Maids for seven years. Our staff of 14 team members cleans hundreds of homes every month. We hire people who are dedicated to providing thorough, consistent cleaning so you get relief from housecleaning. We professionally train, screen, bond and insure every employee for your security and peace of mind.

Our office staff, including Brian, Aaron and Cindy, manage all the details of cleaning, so you don’t have to. They are available if you have any questions, comments or requests. Your satisfaction is their top priority.

Whether you are looking for weekly, biweekly, four week or a “one time” special cleaning, we look forward to serving you.

Brian Winch, Cindy Hegan, Aaron Winch and the award winning Merry Maids team

306-352-6243

merrymaids@sasktel.net | www.merrymaids.ca

Call Now to Request a Cleaning

GlossWorks shines With ConCrete FloorinG

BY MaCkenzie Brooks PhotograPhY BY shaWn Fulton

W

hen a company has an outstanding product, it shines.

This is obvious for GlossWorks, a Regina-based company with a wide reach across Western Canada. GlossWorks’ polished concrete floors are turning heads with their brilliance, resilience and style. As Regina’s premier polished concrete flooring company, GlossWorks has honed in on a market that was crying out for something solidly stylish and not without benefits.

“A polished concrete floor is a superior solution for many reasons,” says partowner of GlossWorks, Curtis Brown. “The obvious beauty is one reason, of course, but a polished concrete floor is beneficial when it comes to saving money on your investment too,” he continues. “Polished concrete is superior in durability, low

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maintenance and is comparable to wood or tile flooring in price at around six to ten dollars a square foot. Our customers are delighted that we give them a beautifully finished floor that will last decades, and never require maintenance or replacement as tile, carpet or other floor coverings would.”

GlossWorks has worked in residential flooring since its inception and has steadily climbed in popularity. “We do many new home builds, and also renovation work in older houses for not only floors, but polished concrete counter tops too,” says Curtis. “We even do work on garage floors for those looking for something more permanent than paint or epoxy, and to extend your living space out into an area that is not often maximized for family use.”

The process of polishing concrete involves gradually honing the rough surface of a pre-poured concrete pad with a machine that levels the surface with a series of increasingly finer diamond-tipped grinders. As the surface is smoothed, the diamond tooling tightens the porous surface, sealing it so it requires no extra waxes, polishes or sealants. The resulting mirror-smooth surface is polished to a naturally high gloss that requires no maintenance, making it the perfect choice for high-traffic areas.

Concrete can even be coloured or sprayed to create a patterned effect before it’s polished for a unique look that lasts. Decorative designs, custom logos, borders, and art work can also be etched, engraved, cut or dyed into the floor – the options are endless.

LEFT GlossWorks owners (l-r): Jeremy Karol, Steve Kenny, John Galinski and Curtis Brown.

Missing: Chris Bjorndahl.

For commercial spaces, a polished concrete floor exceeds OHS standards for grip, saves on costs by eliminating the re-application of sealants and waxes, and will never need replacement. “It’s a good option for durability and longevity, and does extremely well in office foyers and even warehouse spaces,” says Curtis. “Because a polished concrete floor is naturally sealed, it doesn’t stain. It requires no special cleaners, reduces the cost associated with maintenance, and it’s good for the environment. Polished concrete is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified flooring solution,” he adds.

GlossWorks also offers driveway refurbishment using high performance repair processes and products. “If your driveway is old, stained, damaged, cracked, pitted, or shaled, we can fix those blemishes with a structural repair compound, then finish the surface with an engineered concrete dressing. The result is a driveway that looks brand new, is much stronger, and enhances your curb appeal at a fraction of the cost of re-pouring a new driveway,” says Curtis. GlossWorks is the only factory-certified applica-

tor in Saskatchewan, and it performs well against our freeze-thaw cycles and salt damage that is the reality of our harsh climate.

Investigate your flooring options with GlossWorks, and consider the benefits of a polished concrete floor in your living or commercial space. Book now with GlossWorks by visiting them online at www.glossworksonline.com or by calling (306) 737-5194 in Regina, or 1-855-4456778, and complement your space with a floor that shines. FLR

GlossWorks Concrete Polishing, Inc. 4859 Webster Cres.

(306) 737-5194 Toll Free 1-855-445-6778 info@glossworksonline.com www.glossworksonline.com

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37

$38/lin ft installed on C all white PV

A company well-equipped with the skills to

INFORM, CREATE and FINISH any job you may have.

New pvc railing, fencing & decking - strong & durable 6ft on centre on all fencing applications, Member Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

for wind bearing load

OLYMPIC PVC Railing, Fencing & Decking

1035 5th Ave. N. | Regina, Sk. | 306.545.6242 | www.olympicpavingstone.ca

Theteam team The EXPERTAdvice dedicatedtoto dedicated How can amake helping you make helping you Bidding REALTOR® War Basics the “right” move the “right” help you?move

The team dedicated to helping you make the “right” move

REALTOR® is more than just a A Apopular water cooler topic in Regina’s “salesperson”.

We act on your behalf as current real estate market is the your advocate, providing occurrence of multiple offer professional situations or advice and guidance. “bidding wars”.

Multiple offers are often KarinWees Wees&& Karin KarinWees Wees Karin dictated by a limited supply of listings JenWelykholowa Welykholowa Jen The internet has opened up a world of and a high demand for good homes. This Cel: 591-5951 Cel: 591-5951 information not previously available The team dedicated to helping you The team dedicated to helping you scenario is great for sellers, but not so to consumers, and the data on listings email: kwees@sutton.com make the “right” move email: kwees@sutton.com make the “right” move great for buyers. It tends to push up home available for sale is not always up to prices and can create a stressful homeKarin:306.591.5951 306.591.5951 Karin: date. There are times, especially as a GROUP buying experience. karin@w2consulting.ca GROUP karin@w2consulting.ca Jennifer Welykholowa Jennifer Welykholowa buyer in a competitive market, when Jen:306.527.2473 306.527.2473 Jen: you need the most information ESULTS REALTY ULTS REALTY Our goal is to help youcurrent buy your home at a Cel:527-2473 527-2473 Cel: jen@w2consulting.ca jen@w2consulting.ca about what has sold or is for sale, your and Karin Wees fair price so you can feel good about email:jwelyk@sutton.com jwelyk@sutton.com email: the only way to get that is by working purchase. The tips below will help you Cel: 591-5951 with a REALTOR®. navigate the process with as little stress email: kwees@sutton.com as possible.

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GROUP RESULTS REALTY

When Buying Jennifer Welykholowa As a buyer,an there are many advantages Create attractive Cel: 527-2473 to having a REALTOR® work with offer you. We can simplify the process of email: jwelyk@sutton.com

Realty One Real Estate Services Inc #3 - 1118 Broad Street Regina, SK S4R 1X8

You will the need to beplace prepared to act finding perfect by matching quickly in a multiple and up properties that fitoffer with situation your criteria, a set few up things will make facilitate your offerallmore all showings, the attractive. to have mortgage contractsMake and sure paperwork, and do pre-approval before process begins. the negotiating forthe you.

Buying and We can share that information with the selling your home is a very personal seller’s agent and to assure transaction, many them peoplethat tendyour to offer serious.

Put your best foot forward feelis more comfortable using agents and you out are of comfortable to offer take whatever the emotion it, rather paying for thatto property. maywith not than having deal face You to face each The best part of all is that get the other. opportunity to consider a counter it typically not cost the buyer offer.

Making adoes significant down payment anything have a REALTOR® work on also showsto your level of commitment to their behalf the buyer’s agents purchasing thebecause property.

are compensated on a percentage of Don’t get discouraged the seller’s brokerage commission.

We usually know when we are dealing with multiple offers, but we cannot When Selling know what those offers are or how badly Ifsomeone you’re selling home, that you gain access else awants home.

It is to most buyerstobywin being notthe a competition andlisted there on is no the Multiple Service. a winning if youListing pay more than Only you really licensed real estate agent can get you want to. It can be a frustrating process, listed there. Whether are buying but patience is a virtueyou in this situation. or selling a home, MLS® is your Don’t be discouraged if the firstagent’s one does best tool.

The favour. processThe doesn’t stop not go in your process isn’t there; by having ashouse! part of over until we findyour you listing the right the MLS® system, you instantly have all the REALTORS® in the city considering Trust your instincts.... your property for their qualified buyers. andis your REALTOR® That really the key, because at the end of the day, it does you not matter how You will know when find the right many views or hits your listing receives, home and you will feel comfortable itwith is about getting inyou front people who the amount areofoffering for the are activelyDolooking a property with property. not beforafraid to walk away the same as yours, in if you feelcharacteristics anxiety or pressure to make your price range a decision or toand payneighbourhood. more than you are comfortable with or can afford.

Today’s home buyers and sellers are muchwork better than in You so should withinformed a REALTOR® who the past, and expertise and ability are at you trust to have your best interests becoming more Our job heart. It is our important. job to provide youand with the we provideyou is evolving all service the information need to and make we becoming as muchona “guide” as an are informed decision your home apurchase. “salesperson”.

We are your personal We are on your side and we representative buying want to get theinbest resultor for selling you. a home. FLR Happy House Hunting!

Happy house hunting!

Karin andKarin Jen FLR Jen and

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From small-town hockey player to Broadway star: Paul Nolan’s

IMPRObAbLE

jOurneY

BY EDWARD WILLETT PHOTOS JOAN MARCUS

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I

t’s a long, strange journey from small-town hockey player to Broadway musical theatre star, a journey so unlikely it’s probably safe to say Roleau native Paul Nolan is the only one who has ever made it.

But make it he has: the 33-year-old is currently starring as Jesus in the Tonynominated revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar in the Neil Simon Theatre in New York City.

He’s garnered rave reviews for it, too. There have been articles in The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, The New Yorker and Vanity Fair.

The Associated Press called him “all-around excellent.” The Globe & Mail wrote, “With his hypnotic performance as Jesus, Paul Nolan remains the show’s superstar.”

And, he says, “It all began with voice lessons.”

From hockey to music The youngest of five children (he has four older sisters), Nolan grew up in a farming family. Like most prairie boys, his first focus was hockey. “I started playing when I was six. We happened to have a very talented group of guys. Before I left hockey for good at age 17 we had won two provincial championships, and they won another after that.”

But even though he enjoyed hockey and was good at it, it wasn’t until he began voice lessons with Betty Hayes, who introduced him to Regina’s artistic circles, that he found what he calls “my community.”

Then came another revelation: a touring production of Les Miserables Nolan saw at the Saskatchewan Centre of the Arts when he was 13 or 14. “From that night forward, I knew that was what I wanted to do with my life.”

He began with local productions, performing with Regina Summer Stage and Regina Lyric Light Opera, and continued voice lessons, first with Hayes, then with Robert Ursan.

“I doubt I would be where I am today having not studied with Rob as a voice teacher,” Nolan says. “He and Betty are the reason I have any technique and can do this eight times a week.”

Nolan also joined Do It With Class Young People’s Theatre Co. “It was another affirmation that there was a community for me. In a town of 500 people, the focus is not very often put on the arts. It’s almost always sports. If you don’t fit into that peer group, it can be a struggle. DIWC was an affirmation, and very responsible for my success.”

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Second thoughts Nolan moved to Toronto after high school, and attended the Randolph Academy, a musical theatre school, which is where he started his professional work. And hasn’t looked back since... ...well, except maybe once.

“Even now, with the success I’m having, I still kind of fantasize about a more stable life,” Nolan admits, and in 2004 he actually left the business for a year. “I did volunteer work at a children’s camp in St. Lucia for all of August and worked on the family farm. I travelled. I was serious about not working any more as an actor. I really wanted to make a different life.”

But in 2005 he returned to the stage. The role? Jesus in a production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Sunshine Festival in Orillia.

That was followed by five seasons at the Stratford Festival...and the first steps toward Broadway.

In Nolan’s second year at Stratford Tony-award winning director Des McAnuff became artistic director. In his first meeting with McAnuff, Nolan recalls, “I did a monologue—I don’t think I sang—and we talked for five or ten minutes. He asked me what I would I like to do. I told him, ‘I want to play Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar in this Festival.’”

Just recently McAnuff revealed to Nolan that that comment helped spark the new production. “He doesn’t normally think actors cast themselves well in roles,” Nolan marvels, “but he

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didn’t even audition me for it. He asked me to play Jesus before my first preview as Orlando in As You Like It. He approached me in the staircase and said, off the cuff, ‘I want you to play Jesus in Superstar next year.’ I was kind of dumfounded and blindsided.

It was a dream role.”

And, he adds, with a laugh, “It was one of the first times I haven’t auditioned for a role. I could get used to that!”

A sizeable Saskatchewan contingent After a smashing success in Stratford, the show moved to the La Jolla Playhouse in California, and then to Broadway.

It brought a larger Saskatchewan contingent than just Nolan to the Great White Way. The Stratford production had six Saskatchewanians: Jacqueline Burtney (daughter of Andorlie Hillstrom, artistic director of Do It With Class), Matt Alfono and Kyle Golemba (both also DIWC alumni), Stephen Patterson and Mary Antonini. Golemba and Patterson decided to stay in Stratford for this season, but the others are in New York with Nolan.

“There are a lot of Saskatchewan people at the Stratford Festival,” Nolan notes. “They say the cold winters force us to be creative.” More seriously, he says, Saskatchewan offers extraordinary support for its arts community, and particularly for young people in the arts.

So is it overwhelming for a small-town prairie boy to perform on one of the storied stages of Broadway?

Nolan laughs. “I think my family keeps me grounded,” he says. “They’re very, very, very proud, but I think they would be very quick to slap me in the side of the head if I was getting carried away with my own ego.”

He admits, though, that, “If it had happened earlier, maybe I wouldn’t have been so grounded. I know who I am a lot more than I did when I was 23 or 24.”

He tries to look past the Broadway myth. Stratford, he notes, though it may lack the cachet of Broadway, is “creating artists, and nurturing artists, and creating great internationally groundbreaking work and nourishing the thirst of actors to deal with a classical text.”

Ultimately, he says, “It isn’t our job to create the myth, it’s our job to create the art, to do a great job that we believe in.

Being an artist, you tend to go where your artistic thirst is quenched. Right now it’s in Jesus Christ Superstar.”

An ever-evolving role Even though he’s been playing Jesus for months, he finds that his understanding of the role continues to get “richer and richer and richer.”

Each performance is slightly different. “Sometimes I’m exhausted, energetic, sorrowful, joyful, hopeful, defeated—all of those things would have applied to Jesus Christ. He was an incredibly dualistic person, as many and most humans probably are. I find that wonderful to play. It leaves it open to be almost anything.

“Sometimes I’m out there and I’m thinking, ‘This can’t possibly be Jesus, I’m too angry,’ or, ‘I’m too happy,’ but all of that is Jesus. Over time I just have allowed myself to be anything. For me I know where it comes from,” (what he calls the “seed” of the role), “and there’s where I start my night.”

When he’s not on stage, what does he do for fun in the greatest city in the world?

Play softball, what else? Every Thursday for an hour and a half, in the Broadway Softball League. Other than that, “I spend a lot of time having to prepare—getting physical therapy that helps me do it over and over and over again.”

He did find time to visit Yankee Stadium. He was to sing “God Bless America” during the seventh-inning stretch of the Yankees’ home opener.

Nolan is committed to playing Jesus until mid-September, if the show runs that long, and would love to continue for another six months after that. Eventually, though, his time as Jesus will come to an end. And then?

He cheerfully admits he doesn’t have a clue. “I’ll eventually sort that out,” he says, then adds with considerable understatement, “This is big enough right now.” FLR

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S3: WHERE

STYLE LIVES

BY MACKENZIE BROOKS

W

hen you think of big city style, Michelle Strawford wants you to forget about the big cities. As a break-out-of-the-box thinker, Michelle wants you to know that everything you love about big city style, already lives right here in Saskatchewan.

S3, a style compilation of the best of Saskatchewan’s boutique lifestyle, comes to town this October to prove that style lives here.

“S3 is a high-end shopping and lifestyle event that will pull together everything we love about boutique shopping – the attention to detail, unique fashions and home décor and the amazing quality of service that boutiques bring their clientele – all in a one-stop location of pop-up style stores,” says Michelle, the organizer and driving force behind S3’s brilliant concept.

“We want to provide the customer with not only shopping, but with a great experience as well. It’s exciting to see so many retailers come together; it benefits us all to try new things and learn from one another,” she continues. “Best of all, the customers have access to their favourite brands and boutiques, all in one location.”

With the successful lifestyle and show event, What Women Want, in her professional background, Michelle saw an opportunity to ramp Regina’s style scene up another notch. “Our event What Women Want was a good place to start, and it enabled us to envision a model that would help us attain the next level. S3 is going to bend the rules, and build an experience you won’t want to miss,” says Michelle.

S3 promises an event for discerning shoppers who expect the best of style, shopping and spirits. While shopping is the primary focus of the event, Michelle’s vision for S3 was always to bring in exceptional talent in other areas as well.

“I really felt that something unexpected was in order. I want to make our guests remember that not only did they sample their favourite spirit, they also saw an incredible fashion show, and met the team of artists who put the show together,” she says. “We have so much talent working right here in our city, and guests who attend S3 will meet, interact and learn from the people who build up our industries and make style happen where they are. We’re bringing it all together.”

To complement this weekend of bringing style, shopping and spirits together, Michelle and her team have also made it their priority to ensure that the community benefits as well.

“We’ve developed such a great business relationship with the Leader-Post, and we are happy to be raising funds with a portion of the proceeds going towards the Leader-Post Christmas Cheer Fund,” she says. “We’re proud of what they have already helped us accomplish for the community, and we’re thrilled to be partnered with such dedicated folks.”

Get ready. Style drops in Regina, Saturday, October 13 from 3:00 to 11:00 p.m. at the Conexus Arts Centre. Tickets are $20 and will be available at Pure Clothing, Coda Clothing and Shoes and at the door. Experience the best at this gathering of Saskatchewan’s top boutiques and lifestyle services.

Michelle Stra wford

S3: for style, shopping and spirits. S3: for you.

S3 is proud to work with the following sponsors: Presenting - Aspen Medical Canada, Platinum - Bella Chic, Molson Coors Canada and Signature Smiles Oral Wellness Centre, Gold - Just for You Day Spa and Gift Boutique and Silver - Eye Inspire Events and Jojo Beads. Contact Michelle at michelle.strawford@S3regina.com or (306) 540-5268 to include your business. FLR

S3 STYLE | Shopping | Spirits October 13, 2012 | Conexus Arts Centre S3 Regina.com facebook.com/S3StyleShoppingSpirits

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Looking for a special summer menu? Here, Gordon Ramsay cooks up an elegant yet simple meal from his new book PHOTOS MyLES NEW

GORDON’S

GREAT

aUGUST MENU

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Menu StarterS Stuffed courgette rolls Balsamic beetroot with Roquefort Main courSe Salmon baked with herbs & caramelised lemons Cos, asparagus & red onion salad Dessert Individual summer puddings

Timeplan up to a day ahead Make the summer puddings, leave to chill Make beetroot salad to the middle of step 3 on the day, up to 6 hourS ahead Leave courgette strips to marinate Caramelise the lemons, prep the fish and leave in the fridge Prep asparagus for the salad haLF an hour BeFore SerVinG Finish the starters, put salmon in the oven Toss salad together just before serving

Stuffed courgette rolls Makes 24 rolls EaSy PREP 20 mins plus marinating NO COOK I love the way Italians start a meal with antipasti to tantalise the palate. This is my take on it.

4 small courgettes, ends trimmed 3-4 tbsp olive oil, plus extra to drizzle 3-4 tbsp balsamic vinegar, to drizzle 250g tub ricotta squeeze lemon juice handful fresh basil leaves, chopped 50g pine nuts, toasted (see Know-how, right)

Balsamic beetroot with roquefort Serves 8 EaSy PREP 10 mins plus chilling COOK 5 mins Roquefort, in combination with balsamic vinegar, really brings out the sweetness of the beets. I’ve used ready-cooked beetroot here, but you can cook your own if you like.

600g cooked baby beetroots (not the type in vinegar), peeled and trimmed 3-4 tbsp olive oil 6-7 tbsp balsamic vinegar 150g Roquefort 1-2 tsp sesame seeds, toasted (see Know-how, left)

1 Slice the courgettes lengthways, using a swivel vegetable peeler – you’ll need 24 long strips. Drizzle some of the olive oil and balsamic over two large plates and lay the strips flat, trying not to overlap. Sprinkle with more oil and balsamic, cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 20 mins. Can be prepared up to 6 hrs ahead. 2 Mix the ricotta with lemon juice and seasoning to taste, then mix in the basil and pine nuts. Place 1 tsp of the ricotta mixture onto one end of a courgette strip and roll up. Repeat until you have used up all the filling. Arrange rolls upright on a plate and grind over some black pepper. Drizzle with a little more oil and balsamic vinegar to serve.

1 Halve or quarter the beetroot, depending on the size. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan, add the beetroot and sauté for 2-3 mins, tossing well to coat. 2 Add the balsamic vinegar, season and cook 1-2 mins longer, until reduced right down to a syrupy glaze. 3 Transfer to a serving bowl to cool, then cover and chill. Can be done up to 1 day ahead. Remove from fridge 30 mins before serving, crumble over the Roquefort and sprinkle with the sesame seeds.

PER SERVING 49 kcalories, protein 2g, carbohydrate 1g, fat

PER SERVING 152 kcalories, protein 6g, carbohydrate 9g,

5g, saturated fat 1g, fibre none, sugar 1g, salt 0.03g

fat 11g, saturated fat 5g, fibre 2g, sugar 8g, salt 1.01g

Gordon’S know-how

To cook beetroot from raw, leave in the skins and boil whole until tender. Peel when cooled, but don’t forget to don your rubber gloves first. If you can’t find Roquefort, you could use crumbled Stilton or semi-soft goat’s cheese.

Gordon’S know-how

To toast pine nuts, tip into a hot frying pan – no oil needed – for 2-3 mins, shaking the pan often until the kernels are golden all over. Tip onto a plate and leave to cool. Toast the sesame seeds for the beetroot salad this way, too.

Roll up courgette strips with the ricotta mixture

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Salmon baked with herbs & caramelised lemons Serves 8 MODERaTELy EaSy PREP 25 mins COOK 35 mins Heart healthy, good source of Omega-3s To me, this is one of the best and easiest ways of cooking salmon, combining Asian and Mediterranean flavours for a refreshingly aromatic centrepiece. I like to use salmon from Loch Duart if I can (lochduart.com) – it’s reared in a sustainable, environmentally conscious way and has a lean, full-flavoured flesh. whole salmon (about 2kg), scaled, gutted and washed 3 small lemons, thickly sliced 100ml olive oil 4-6 fresh bay leaves few sprigs each fresh rosemary, thyme, basil, sage and parsley 2-3 lemongrass stalks, cut into large pieces 1 head garlic, halved horizontally 1 tsp peppercorns, mixed or black 5-6 whole star anise PER SERVING 388 kcalories, protein 32g, carbohydrate 1g, fat 29g, saturated fat 5g, fibre none, sugar 1g, salt 0.56g

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1 Trim salmon tail and cut off the fins.

Pat dry inside and out with kitchen paper. Score the skin of the fish on both sides with a sharp knife, at 2-3cm intervals. Rub all over with olive oil, salt and pepper. Lay three large pieces of foil over a large baking tray, overlapping the long edges.Heat oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5.

2 Heat a little oil in a non-stick frying pan, then fry lemon slices over a high heat for 2-3 mins until golden. Season; allow to cool slightly. Scatter a handful of herbs and lemongrass over foil, then sit salmon on top. Tuck caramelised lemon, herbs and garlic around and inside fish, splash over a little oil and scatter over salt, peppercorns and star anise.

cos, asparagus & red onion salad Serves 8 MODERaTELy EaSy PREP 15 mins COOK 2 mins Superhealthy, counts as 1 of 5-a-day 300g asparagus spears 1 large or 2 medium Cos lettuce 1 red onion, thinly sliced 3-4 tbsp vinaigrette, preferably homemade (see below) 1 Peel the asparagus bases with a swivel peeler and trim the woody ends. Blanch in boiling salted water for 1 -2 mins until just tender. Drain and refresh under cold running water.

2 Trim the base of the lettuce leaves and arrange on a large shallow bowl or platter. Scatter over the asparagus spears and red onion, season well and drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving.

PER SERVING 62 kcalories, protein 2g, carbohydrate 3g, fat 5g, saturated fat 1g, fibre 2g, sugar 3g, salt 0.14g

Gordon’S know-how

3 Fold the foil around the fish to make a shallow tent, scrunching the edges well to seal. Cook in the centre of the oven for 30-35 mins, depending on the thickness of the salmon. Remove from the oven and rest the fish for at least 10 mins, still wrapped in foil.

Gordon’S know-how

Baked salmon is at its best when the thickest part of the flesh near the head is still very slightly soft, moist and bright pink. Letting the fish rest while still wrapped in foil helps the flesh firm up for easy carving.

4 Unwrap the fish and gently peel away the skinusing a cutlery knife and discard.

Use the handle of a spoon to scrape off any brown flesh on top of the pink flesh, then push the spoon headinto the groove that runs along the length of the fillet, easing the flesh into two long strips. Push the spoon into the flesh where it joins the backbone, lifting it off the bone. Break the fish on the first side into 4 portions and lift onto serving plates. When the top half is served, pull off the backbone and head and serve the rest. Drain the juices into a small jug. Serve with caramelised lemons and a drizzle of the juices.

Here’s my quick way to prepare asparagus. Simply bend each spear and snap where you feel it naturally give, breaking off the woody end.

classic vinaigrette Makes about 250ml Put 100ml extra virgin olive oil, 100ml groundnut oil, 1 scant tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp white wine vinegar and some sea salt and pepper in a measuring jug and whisk together until emulsified. Pour into a clean bottle, seal and refrigerate. Shake well before using. Will keep covered in the fridge for up to a week.

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individual summer puddings Makes 8 MODERaTELy EaSy PREP 20 mins plus cooling COOK 2-3 mins Superhealthy, counts as 1 of 5-a-day, good source of vitamin C This must be the crowning glory of English puddings.

Day-old slices of white bread are perfect for soaking up the juices from the berries. If using fresh bread, you may find it easier to firm it up in the fridge before slicing.

1kg mixed berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, redcurrants,blackberries and strawberries, plus a few extra to serve 50g caster sugar 4 tbsp Crème de Cassis (or water) large (approx 800g) loaf white bread, sliced PER SERVING 282 kcalories, protein 9g, carbohydrate 59g, fat 2g, saturated fat none, fibre 4g, sugar 18g, salt 1.17g

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Cut out 8 small bread rounds and 8 large ones

Gordon’S know-how

Soft fruit is very delicate. To wash, swish gently in a large bowl of water and drain in a colander. Tip onto a tray lined with double thickness of paper towel; pat dry.

Press the straight slices of bread around the sides

1 Strip berries from their stalks and hull strawberries. Discard any that are squashy or overripe. Toss berries gently in a nonstick saucepan with sugar and Cassis or water. Heat the pan until it starts to sizzle. Cook over a medium heat for 2-3 mins or until the fruits start to bleed and soften.

2 Stir gently, then cool to room temperature. Strain fruit through a plastic sieve into a non-metallic bowl for about 10 mins or until the juices stop dripping.

3 Have 8 cappuccino or tea cups (about 200ml) ready. Using 2 cutters (approx 10cm and 6cm, but check against the tops and bottoms of your cups), cut out 8 bread rounds of each size. Cut the crusts off 8 more slices and slice in half. These strips should be approximately the same depth as the cups.

4 Dip the small rounds of bread into the reserved juices and press into the cups. Dip the straight slices in the juice and press around the sides.

Spoon in the fruits, pressing down with the back of a spoon to firm. Dip the last of the bread rounds into the juice; press down on top. Chill overnight.

5 When ready to serve, loosen bread tops with the tip of a table knife. Hold a dessert plate over the pudding, then turn upside down, shaking well.

The puddings should slip out easily; if not, loosen the sides gently with the knife. Pour any remaining juice over the tops of puddings. Decorate with the remaining fruit; serve with pouring cream.

Pour any remaining juice over the tops of the puddings

to make a large pudding Use a 1.8 litre capacity or similar sized bowl. Cut 1 small round of bread to fit the base and 1 larger one for the top. Remove crusts from about 6-8 more slices of bread, then cut each slice in half slightly on the diagonal to make two lopsided rectangles. Dip the base piece into the juices and use to line the bottom of the bowl. Dip the remaining slices and slot them against each other, thick and thin ends down alternately, until bowl is lined. Spoon in the fruit, soak the final circle of bread and lay it on top.

Cover with cling film, sit a small plate or saucer on top and weigh down with a tin. Chill overnight before turning out.

These recipes have been adapted from Gordon Ramsay’s latest book, Sunday Lunch and Other Recipes from the F Word (Quadrille).

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SENSATIONAL!

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A worldwide phenomenon that hits all the right notes.”

–The Globe and Mail

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SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 13 Sid Buckwold Theatre at TCU Place

Photo: Chris Callis

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Get Ready for Summer at the

Royal SaSkatchewan MuSeuM

BY Shawna Common PhotoS CalVIn Fehr

T

he Friends of the Royal Saskatchewan Museum (RSM) are excited about their summer programs. On August 11th, they will host the 65,000,026th birthday party for RSM’s resident T.rex, Megamunch.

The day will be jam-packed with prehistoric party activities including stage performances, games, crafts, dinobouncers, tasty treats and more.

There’s more to summer at the museum than just a dinosaur’s birthday party.

Free drop-in programs, including crafts, games and scavenger hunts, are offered three times a day, Thursdays and Sundays in July and August. Don’t miss Fun Film Fridays every Friday afternoon!

SaskTel Summer Cool Camps are also offered for children five to nine and run from July 3rd to August 30th. The 5-day, 4-day, and single day camps have their own unique themes, such as Dino Safari, Animals All Around and Spread Your Wings.

operate the museum gift shop and the Cumberland Gallery Gift Shop at the Saskatchewan Legislature. The gift shops feature truly unique art and handicrafts by Saskatchewan artists. All proceeds help support public programs and research projects at the RSM.

For children nine to 12, the “Young Explorers: Hit the Road” Camp offers a new and exciting option for summer camp. The camp runs from July 23rd to 27th, and includes a two-night trip to Eastend, Saskatchewan where campers dig for fossils, make their own fossil casts and fall asleep with “dino-snores” at the T.rex Discovery Centre.

Visit www.royalsaskmuseum.ca to learn more about the exciting summer the Friends of the RSM have planned. The museum is located at 2445 Albert Street in Regina, and entrance is by donation. FLR

The non-profit Friends of the RSM also

Friends of the Royal Saskatchewan Museum 2445 Albert Street Regina 306-787-0787 | kim.cloutier@gov.sk.ca www.royalsaskmuseum.ca

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REGINA

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

summer 2012

JULY July 5 Regina Downtown Noon Concert Series - Casino Regina Summer Stage The Lonesome Weekends

July 12

July 6 - 8

July 12 - 15

Wascana Park SaskTel Summer Invasion

Craven Craven Country Jamboree

July 8 | 14 | 28 Mosaic Stadium Roughrider Football

July 10 The Exchange Regina Melvins Lite with Retox

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Regina Downtown Noon Concert Series - Casino Regina Summer Stage Belle Plaine

July 19 Regina Downtown Noon Concert Series - Casino Regina Summer Stage The Fortunate Isles

July 26 Regina Downtown Noon Concert Series - Casino Regina Summer Stage Alex Reunions

AUGUST August 2 | 9 | 16 | 23 | 30 Regina Downtown Noon Concert Series - Casino Regina Summer Stage 2: Fur Eel, 9: The Hard Ramblers, 19: Fly Points, 23: Roots N’Herbs, 30: The Criminal Kid

August 7 - 10 Conexus Arts Centre Mamma Mia!

August 10 - 12

August 11 Royal Saskatchewan Museum Megamunch Birthday Party

August 12 Government House Government House Victorian Tea

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Wascana Park Symphony under the Sky, RSO Special Concerts

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August 25

Conexus Arts Centre An Evening with Yanni

Victoria Park Regina Ukrainian Fall Fest

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September 13 Conexus Arts Centre k.d.lang

September 15 Conexus Arts Centre Regina Symphony, Opening Night Gala

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Your mouth affects Your health

BY SHAWNA COMMON

T

here is more behind your smile than just your mouth according to scientists. The health of your mouth has a direct impact on your body, and has been linked to problems with chronic conditions. Scientists have found that people who have serious gum disease are 40 per cent more likely to also have a chronic health condition.

Your immune system is affected by poor oral health because bacteria that build up on teeth make gums prone to infection.

Bacteria from the mouth can also travel through the bloodstream to the heart and other organs, which cause harm to these vital areas of the body.

Inflammation in the mouth seems to weaken the body’s ability to control blood sugar, leading to complications with diabetes.

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Periodontal disease can also complicate diabetes because the inflammation impairs the body’s ability to use insulin.

Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth, and begins when the bacteria in plaque causes the gums to become inflamed.

Periodontal disease is caused by gingivitis, which causes the gums to become red, swollen and to bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene, but is reversible with treatment and good oral care.

Researchers have recognized a link between oral health and heart disease, although more research is required to determine the actual cause and effect. Scientists believe inflamed gums

produce inflammatory proteins that enter the bloodstream, and contribute to the swelling and narrowing of coronary blood vessels. Another possibility being explored is that oral bacteria attaches to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries, and contribute to clot formation. Clots may then block the normal blood flow to the heart, which increases the chance of heart attack or stroke. Periodontal disease may also complicate existing heart conditions, and studies have shown that patients who suffer from gum disease are twice as likely to also suffer from heart conditions.

There is also a supposed link between periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis, lung conditions, and obesity.

Periodontal disease may make the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis worse, as well as exacerbating respiratory conditions by possibly increasing the amount of bacteria in the lungs. Research has also suggested that periodontitis may progress more quickly in the presence of higher body fat, increasing the risks to obese patients.

Poor dental and oral health also affects a person’s mental health as well, with unattractive smiles, bleeding gums and bad breath lowering confidence, selfesteem and self-worth. There is also evidence connecting poor oral health during pregnancy to premature and low birth weight babies.

Research is still finding connections between your mouth, your body and your mind, but one thing scientists, dentists and doctors all agree on – take care of your mouth. It is important to make regular visits to your dentist for cleaning and checkups, and make sure your dentist considers the connection between your mouth and your overall health. A healthy smile is a happy smile. FLR

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BaBy NixoN: OvercOming the Odds

By Ryan Holota

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ixon Lawson looks like any other five month old boy. He smiles and laughs, likes being tickled, and loves his mommy and daddy, Shantal Ecarnot and Cole Lawson.

However, Nixon isn’t just like any other baby boy. He was born with a congenital heart defect and without a thymus gland. His heart condition (pulmonary artresia with VSD) can be dealt with through a surgery that is scheduled to be completed by the end of the summer in Edmonton. He may need follow-up surgeries, but this procedure will effectively restore his heart to normal function.

The missing thymus gland, however, is a more complicated problem. The thymus gland is a specialized part of the immune system that is critical in preventing disease and infection. Nixon’s small or missing thymus gland was revealed during a pregnancy ultrasound, and the effects of that missing gland were noticed soon after birth. Suffering from the effects of pneumonia, Nixon was sent to the Calgary Children’s Hospital to meet with an immunologist. Nixon’s parents’ worst fears were confirmed: Nixon did not have a functioning immune system. Most babies in this condition do not live more than two years.

Thankfully, the doctor offered a ray of hope. A doctor at Duke University in North Carolina, M. Louise Merkert (M.D. Ph.D) has developed an experimental surgery that could allow Nixon to live a long and normal life. In an interview on CNN, Dr. Merkert explained the procedure, “…we obtain thymus tissue from babies who are having heart surgery. Because the thymus sits on the heart, and covers it up actually, some of it has to be removed for the surgeon to get to the heart.

Instead of throwing it in the trash, they put it in a sterile cup.”

If they have a baby in the hospital that can use the tissue, and the parents of the baby who is having heart surgery consent, slices of the thymus tissue are inserted into the thigh muscle of the baby who is missing their thymus gland. The success rate for this surgery is excellent.”

The procedure costs about $500,000, and thankfully, the province of Saskatchewan has agreed to cover the surgery costs. However, the family must travel to North Carolina and live there for up to six months while waiting for thymus tissue to become available and for Nixon to recover. During recovery, Nixon must be isolated to prevent exposure to infection while his immune system develops. There is no funding from the province for the family to stay in North Carolina.

Friends and family created The Nixon Fund to help raise money for Nixon’s parents to be with him in North Carolina and enable the surgery to take place. A Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/TheNixonFund) provides updates on Nixon and fundraising progress. The family holds events to raise money, but more donations are desperately needed to help this little boy experience all that life has to offer. You can help by making a donation to The Nixon Lawson Fund at the Affinity Credit Union branch at 4503 Rochdale Blvd.FLR

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ESCAPE YOUR WORLD AND RELAX IN OURS

By Dan Grant Photos CalVIn Fehr

C

andyce Bell opened Bell Medical Aesthetics in Estevan in October 2010, and her business has been growing ever since. Bell is a registered nurse, has numerous advanced certifications, and is backed by a medical doctor trained and certified in medical aesthetics. She offers expertise in every service to her clients, and her knowledge and skill have attracted people seeking treatment from all over the province. We are trusted and trained professionals,” says Bell, whose companies bring professionalism and high standards of client care.

Bell and her staff make sure you are comfortable with how certain treatments work, and that you have a customized plan that works for your budget and what you need. Consultations are free.

“Consultations usually run about 20 to 30 minutes. We find out about the

client’s areas of concern, and review the many options available to them. We then build a plan based on each client’s individualized goals, expectations and budget,” explains Bell.

These same customers are quick to express their gratitude for the personal and professional service they receive.

“When they email with any questions, I am quick to personally respond,” states Bell. It’s this side of Bell and her philosophy on how to treat clients that sets her apart from the competition.

She and her staff will make sure that you are aware of and understand what a treatment is and how it will be done.

She once had a BOTOX® client proclaim, “I’ve been getting BOTOX® for about six years now and no one has ever told me how it actually works!”

After successfully building Bell Medical

Aesthetics, Bell decided to expand and purchase the Damara Day Spa franchise.

On April 1, 2012, she opened in the Sandman Hotel location as Damara Day Spa featuring Bell Medical Aesthetics.

Damara Day Spa already had a great reputation, so it was the perfect fit for Bell to bring the two industries together.

“We wanted to provide clients with more options to help attain their professional approach to personal beauty,” Bell adds.

Damara Day Spa featuring Bell Medical Aesthetics offers the only Legato machine in Canada. This machine helps get rid of scars, stretch marks, wrinkles and more. You can be confident using this service; Bell is one of the nurse educators for Alma Lasers™ in Canada, and she understands every aspect of how the machines work, and how to get the results her clients are looking for.

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“We build a plan based on each client’s individualized goals, expectations and budget,” explains Bell.

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Before

After

Before

Bell is also bringing in HydraFacial, a medical grade facial that provides immediate results with no downtime.

It not only exfoliates, does pain-free extractions of blackheads and deep pore cleansing, but also infuses and your skin with essential serums and antioxidants to protect your skin and provide immediate improvement. It provides twice the benefits of an Intense Pulse Light (IPL) and goes three times deeper than a microdermabrasion truly amazing!

Damara Day Spa featuring Bell Medical Aesthetics offers an experience - a place to get away and simply relax. “Our treatment rooms reflect our motto of ‘Escape Your World and Relax in Ours’ by showcasing themed rooms with Paris, Venice, London, Manhattan and Africa. All paying treatments also have access to our amazing steam rooms, the pool and hot tub,” explains Bell.

Damara Day Spa featuring Bell Medical Aesthetics is currently offering promotional packages. For example, when you buy three-20 unit BOTOX®

Before

After

After

treatments, you receive the No.1 selling eye cream in the world, Elastiderm Eye Cream for free ($125 value). Until September 30, 2012, you can get a manicure and a pedicure for the amazing price of only $99. “We don’t relax and pamper ourselves enough. Getting to an appointment can sometimes be difficult, so why not make it easier and more affordable by getting both done at the same time, and save a little of your hardearned money?” suggests Bell.

For anyone needing to relax with a fantastic massage, they also now offer direct billing for people who have Great West Life as their insurance provider.

This would include employees of SaskTel, Sask Energy, Sask Power and the Regina Qu`Appelle Health Region.

If you are looking for a place where you can feel comfortable, and get knowledgeable and skilled service from people who truly care about your happiness, experience and results don’t waste another minute - contact Damara Day Spa featuring Bell Medical Aesthetics today. FLR

“I absolutely love the results I achieved from their services! It’s truly amazing what a difference it’s made in improving my appearance, and I couldn’t be happier.

Candyce’s professionalism, knowledge and skills really put me at ease, and I’ve recommended her to several of my friends.”

Female client, 39

Damara Day Spa Featuring Bell Medical Aesthetics Sandman Hotel, Suites and Spa 1800 Victoria Ave. E. Regina (306) 347-2511 bmasandman@damaradayspa.com cbell@bellmedicalaesthetics.com www.damaradayspa.com www.bellmedicalaesthetics.com

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Members present at Sparkle and Shine Event (L-R) Ann Deshaies, Crystal Zakaluzny, Jill Poulton, Genelle Payant, Jackie Nestman, Alana Mitschke, Tania Holzer-Maneso, Pat Ellingson, Robyn Cunningham, Roberta Fonger, Lenise Mang, Jessie Zoerb, Robbin Schick

NetworkiNg, SupportiNg each other aNd MoviNg MouNtaiNS

By Sherry MagnuSon PHOTOS John Morrell

W

hat is the recipe for a successful women`s business organization? Take two creative and energetic businesswomen, add vision, a dash of fun and commitment to a cause, and you have the Business Women of Moose Jaw group. Founded five years ago by Robbin Schick, division director with Investors Group, and Jackie Nestman, owner of The Hibiscus Boutique, the “BWMJ” - as it is fondly referred to - is alive, well and growing.

Founders Schick and Nestman were concerned that Moose Jaw did not have a group focused on businesswomen, who often face unique challenges that require multi-tasking, juggling responsibilities, and running a business at the same time, often without a support system. Nestman, owner of The Hibiscus Boutique, says when Schick approached her with the concept, she liked the idea of networking with other women

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entrepreneurs. “I wanted a sounding board with others who have like experiences.” Nestman adds that Moose Jaw has many businesses owned by women. “It was time for us to have our stage, to come together to show we are a powerful force.

There are a lot of good things happening in Moose Jaw and there are a lot of women behind them.”

Operating with between 20 and 25 members at any given time, the BWMJ is a non-profit organization that serves first and foremost as a support network for businesswomen. Members have to own their own business in order to join or as Schick states, “You have to be the person who creates your own paycheque.” The annual fifty dollar fee gives members access to monthly meetings and guest speakers, the network member names, newsletters, and the opportunity to be part of a groupsponsored event.

The organization’s June speaker, Jill Poulton, business coach and president of the Regina Women’s Network, is also a member of the BWMJ. “I wanted to connect with the women’s business community here, to support them, and build my business at the same time.

There are many women starting or building businesses in Moose Jaw and I love to work with women.” Poulton specializes in leadership and she stresses the importance of networking and influence. “To have a successful business, you need to have influence and know how to network effectively.”

“To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.”

Beyond the benefits to its members, this group of women also raise funds to donate to the Moose Jaw Health Foundation. “Everyone has their favourite charity,” says Schick. “However, we see the hospital as critical. We want to support this important community asset, ensuring it is a viable operation that provides proper care.”

Nestman agrees wholeheartedly, “The hospital is the core of our community, something we all use and rely on to provide service.”

Previous fundraising events hosted by the organization have included trade shows, luncheons, fashion shows, wellness expos and treasure hunts. At this spring’s elegant fundraiser, the first Sparkle and Shine held at the Tourism Centre, the 150 or so attendees enjoyed an evening of local entertainment, appetizers, wine and a silent auction. “Everyone played their part,” says Schick. “The event came together like a puzzle, perfectly in the end.” She credits the event’s success to the “strongest group we`ve had in five years. The hard work and dedication of each and every member of our team was critical in bringing this event together”. Schick says the BWMJ has contributed a total of $10,000 to the health foundation to date, including this year`s proceeds. ``We would love to raise more. Our goal is $10,000 or more every year,” Schick proudly declares. ``We plan to run this event again next year.” Nestman adds that more than a dozen businesswomen have approached them since the event, asking about the association and how they can join.

Schick, who refers to herself as “the constant push who has been too stubborn to let the organization go”, is proud of their progress.

“We’ve had growing pains, but now that our core

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2012 Sparkle and Shine event

is strong, we’re finally starting to get off the ground. We always revisit what we are all about: businesswomen networking, building strong relationships and supporting each other’s businesses. One of my favourite parts is to see these women interacting and succeeding when we support each other – that’s when I get my reward, and it is worth it.”

Nestman agrees, “We are accomplishing our goals of networking and supporting each other. We can celebrate each other`s successes.” She compliments Schick with being the “driving force” behind the association`s success. “It was her vision and her dream. Her perseverance, tenacity, passion and commitment have been so strong; I don’t think we would still be a group if it weren`t for her.”

Schick remains humble as the group’s head coordinator, yet driven to see the group become even more. “This group of businesswomen not only support each other; we accomplish things together that one businesswoman could not accomplish alone. As a group, we think we can move mountains. We’re a force to be reckoned with and we’re proud of it, that’s for sure.”

One thing is certain: the recipe is working and this group of businesswomen is on the move. FLR

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Network for Women in Business • You must be a motivated woman who wants to make her dreams come true and help others make their dreams come true.

• The network thrives on women who want to network, form strategic partnerships and exchange their products and services with each other.

• We rely on the discretion of fellow members to make carefully thought-out referrals and invitations to new members.

Goals: • • • • • • • •

Make introductions Bounce ideas off each other Form strategic partnerships Exchange products and services Derive exclusive discounts, free consultation and access to really cool products and services Help each other find new clients and customers Get and give advice Help each other find new clients and customers

Donna Peterson, Dawn Ritter, Kim Gooding and Amy Ofstie

It’s all In the detaIls

I

nspired by a fundraiser they created in Moose Jaw almost two years ago, Donna Peterson, Dawn Ritter, Kim Gooding and Amy Ofstie started Details Rentals & Event Design Inc. to meet the event decor needs of Saskatchewan people and organizations who are planning events. The sole focus of their business is the esthetic aspect of an event, and creating a mood or atmosphere in which to celebrate.

Specializing in the design and decor of many types of events, Details coordinates looks for large corporate functions, fundraisers, weddings and private parties. They supply linens, lighting, backdrops, ceiling drapes, or anything that will make your event fabulous. Their professional approach and wealth of resources and experience provides a stress-free experience for customers.

Details Rentals & Event Design is passionate about customer service, and they strive to give your event that personalized feel. The design team uses their creativity to make the best use of

rental products, space and budget. They specialize in using trendy or classic designs based on their clients’ wishes to create dynamic and unique events.

Details continually designs and produces new products, and their inventory is constantly expanding. During your consultation, they assess your event needs and if required, will customize rentals to meet your needs. These personable and talented designers will exceed your expectations.

To make your appointment for a consultation, call (306) 624-0085 or email detailsrentals@sasktel.net.

Visit Details Rentals & Event Design Inc. on Facebook for photos and more information. FLR

RENTALS

& EVENT DESIGN, INC. Rentals & Event Design, Inc. (306) 624-0085 www.details-events.ca

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Journey into beauty and health PHOTOS CALVIN FEHR

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rapture Spa and Boutique is a full service spa and wellness alternative for Saskatchewan residents and beyond. Registered massage therapist, Vicki Watson opened the doors of Wrapture Spa and Boutique in 1998 in a historic building in the heart of downtown Moose Jaw. Things have certainly changed since that time, including an expansion to a total of 5500 square feet of welcoming warmth and relaxation. The spa has also been rated with a green spa status by Eminence Organic Skin Care to recognize that they are environmentally responsible.

Wrapture Spa and Boutique offers a wide range of unique services and products not often seen in all spas, including the Ideal Protein weight management system where most clients lose an average of three to seven pounds weekly. The program includes valuable coaching and education to help maintain long term losses and muscle mass throughout the four phase protocol. They also have a professionally trained team of estheticians, nail technicians and registered massage therapists. They take customer service to the next level by offering a 100 per cent client satisfaction guarantee on all services.

The spa accommodates group bookings for families, reunions, corporate workshops and any other group that would like to relax and rejuvenate. The unique limousine service offers airport shuttles, stag and stagette parties, anniversary and wedding events to help create lasting memories.

Wrapture specializes in Eminence organic skin care, an active, top of-theline skin care system manufactured to the highest environmental standards in Hungary. Wrapture carries the largest selection and volume of Eminence products anywhere in Canada. Clients using the Eminence age-defying system with naturally occurring retinol alternative, report a noticeable difference in appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet within six days of use.

Wrapture is famous for their facials, and attributes this to the high level of continuing education for the staff each quarter through their partners at Eminence Organics.

The Spa also offers Artistic Colour Gloss, a gel-like nail coating that is gentler for the natural nails than typical gel or acrylic products. This amazing long lasting gel manicure isn’t as hard as other products, making the nails flexible and healthy. Wrapture is now taking pedicures to a whole new level using a new disposable, dermabrasion disk system, allowing for more effective callous removal with longer lasting results. Complete your foot regime with homecare products from Gehwol, Footlogix or Zoya polish.

New to Wrapture Spa and Boutique is the representation of the full Mirabella mineral makeup line. This offers a unique complimentary two minute skin test that takes away the guess work from selecting your makeup - a popular new favorite for both clients and staff at the spa. Wrapture is proud of their team, and promotes continuing education for all team members through education incentives and goals. Their passion for customer service is obvious in all they do and is at the core of their continuing success. The boutique carries exclusive lines such as Hillberg & Berk jewellery, Tokyo Milk perfumes, Glee accessories, OKAb sandals and Relaxus spa products.

Take time for you, and “Journey to Relaxation” at Wrapture Spa and Boutique located at 311 Main Street North in Moose Jaw. Call (306) 692-4341 to book an appointment, or call (306) 684-9015 for limousine service or airport shuttle.

Follow us on Facebook or see us at www.wrapturespa.ca for more information. FLR Wrapture Spa and Boutique 311 Main Street North Moose Jaw (306) 692-4321 www.wrapturespa.ca

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UNIQUE UNIQUEFASHION FASHIONEXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE ininHistoric HistoricDowntown DowntownMoose MooseJaw Jaw

BY LISA SCHICK PHOTOS CALVIN FEHR

H

ibiscus flowers are some of the most beautiful flowers in the world.

They come in dozens of colours, and are used to accentuate beauty in landscaping, food and cultural practices. The aptly named Hibiscus Boutique in Moose Jaw provides the same beauty, accent and flare for its customers – everything a girl could want and more!

Nestled in historic downtown Moose Jaw, The Hibiscus Boutique offers personalized service and a one-of-a-kind experience and feel that chain and big-box stores just can’t deliver. “This is my third location and it’s my favourite space,” says Jackie Nestman, store owner. “We love our downtown location, being surrounded by all the history, close to the Temple Gardens Mineral Spa, and within walking distance of the Tunnels of Moose Jaw. Our customers can enjoy our boutique shopping experience as part of all the fun, flair and atmosphere that our downtown has to offer. ” Jackie brings her many strengths to creating a boutique that has it all – customized shopping parties, personalized wish lists and shopping for husbands, gift certificates, special events, theme parties and late browsing in a very personalized, relaxing and homey ambience that she proudly labels “a true boutique experience.”

Customers can enjoy comfortable, personal and relaxed shopping in this cozy boutique. The intimate setting allows Jackie and her staff to focus on serving their customers by meeting their individual needs. “People say it feels like they’re walking into someone’s home when they enter our store,” says Jackie.

Jackie has been operating The Hibiscus Boutique for more than five years, and in that time the store has grown, but her focus has remained on the customer.

She prides herself on making sure her customers leave the store happy with their purchases. “This is about building relationships with our customers, getting to know them, and making sure they get what they want,” Jackie says.

The boutique’s employees spend as much time as customers need to help them look their best. Whether you enter the store with something specific in mind, or have no idea what you want, Jackie and her staff can help. In fact, Jackie cares so much about her customers that she will even direct them to another store if she doesn’t have what they’re looking for. “Our team can put together a flattering outfit for any woman from head to toe, including shoes and accessories,” Jackie says with satisfaction in her voice. “Because the boutique offers only a few products in each style, customers walk away with a unique outfit, and we feel good knowing they got what they wanted. It just doesn’t get any better than that.”

Merchandise in The Hibiscus Boutique is always of high quality design and follows the latest fashion trends. They are proud to carry exclusive brands from Canada, as well as South America, Asia and the U.K. The boutique specializes in offering a little bit of everything including jeans, dresses, sweaters, shoes, jewellery, belts, purses, swim suits and resort wear.

The Hibiscus Boutique 321 Main St. N. Moose Jaw, SK (306) 693-9322 www.thehibiscusboutique.com Facebook at The Hibiscus Boutique

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With its wide array of unique and high quality stock, one-on-one customer service, and distinctive atmosphere, The Hibiscus Boutique is more than just shopping – it is truly a memorable downtown experience that leaves customers feeling great, looking dynamic and wanting more - the ultimate choice for today’s fashionista! FLR

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3. JERSEY HALTER MAXI DRESS Bobi. Sterling Silver and coral bead necklace, Nakamol.

4. CORAL SKINNY JEANS Miss Me. 5. STRAW SUN HAT Canadian Hat. Cover up dress/ purse, Dressed’n-case.

6. ELECTRIC BLUE LACE/ CHIFFON DRESS Yumi London. Three strand silver and crystal necklace, Justine Brooks.

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When you create success from something that you love, it’s not work, it’s a way of life.

Women in Business Be time wise

By Jill Poulton ife is busy! The day is non-stop with meetings, calls, emails, paperwork, and appointments. Then you rush home to feed the kids a ready-roasted chicken with fixings so you can hurry off to dance and hockey. You squeeze in a phone call with a friend who’s having relationship issues while you finish preparing for a presentation for the next day.

You feel tense, drained, and convince yourself that it’ll all be okay and you’ll persevere. The week carries on at the same intense pace until Friday night arrives and you’re thankful that your friend

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cancelled your movie night so you can crash on the couch! The alarm on Monday morning goes off and the race begins again.

The details of this scenario may be different for you but the competing demands for your attention and time, along with the stress, are the same. This often shows up as, “I need to find some time. I need some work-life balance!”

A perceived quick fix is to be diligent with time management, but time management is an oxymoron. Time cannot be managed: it

cannot be controlled in any way. It’s not like pennies that you can save up in a jar to reach in and use later. Once time passes, it’s gone. And work-life balance is a myth. There’s no scale with equal weighting of work and life, and depending on who you are, one might outweigh the other. So if you can’t manage time, what can you do? Manage yourself!

Henry David Thoreau wrote, “It isn’t enough to be busy. The question is, ‘What are we busy about?’” The more you value your time, the more value it brings. You define what value means for you, but being busy does not mean being productive or achieving. Instead of looking at your to-do list, look at what you’re accomplishing. Are your choices in alignment with your vision and goals? Chances are reprioritizing is what’s required to move forward with improved grace and ease. Prioritizing requires business women to think ahead and see how everything relates to the overall vision, rather than only reacting to the immediate.

Consider this: what do you do so well that no one else can do it? Do what you do best and delegate the rest. Working in your strength zone creates higher productivity and requires less discretionary energy. It also means increased personal satisfaction. When you create success from something that you love, it’s not work, it’s a way of life.

Another misconception is if you work harder you’ll get farther ahead. While success, however you define it, does require work, the work itself is not enough. Thinking is required—thinking with a proactive perspective. Thinking that involves regular evaluation of effectiveness, looking at what you are doing that can be done by someone else, and estimating the vested time for top projects.

The more you value your time, the more value it will bring. Value can be income or quality time with loved ones. It can also be a sense of harmony because you’ve made choices that align with who you are and what your vision is. FLR

Jill Poulton (www.jillpoulton.com) is President of the Regina Women’s Network and coaches business women to higher levels of success.

You can contact Jill at coach@jillpoulton.com or 306-585-2123.

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EXPERTAdvice One Is Too Small A Number For Greatness

During my early years of professional development, I discovered this quote, “Who you are five years from now will be determined by the people you have lunch with and the books you read.” The point is to do a self-check on whom or what is influencing our lives, and consider whether the influence is encouraging or hindering.

Achieving anything worthwhile calls for the support and resources of others. This group of well-poised confidantes is often referred to as an inner circle, master mind, a board of directors, or a home team.

Jill Poulton

Destination by Design Coaching & Consulting Founding Partner with the John Maxwell Team 306.585.2123 coach@jillpoulton.com www.jillpoulton.com

Most of the time, we surround ourselves with people we like or with whom we are comfortable. Few people consider how those closest to him or her influence their personal effectiveness, the development of their potential, or the realization of their dream. To move forward, we must be intentional in our relationship building.

This means connecting with others whose values and beliefs align with yours and the vision you hold. It’s in the pursuit of your own potential that you encourage and equip others to reach theirs.

Napoleon Hill, author of Think & Grow Rich advises, “Deliberately seek the company of people who influence you to think and act on building the life you desire.” If you want something other than your current reality, you have to do some things you’ve never done before, which calls you to become more than you currently are. To begin your personal evolution, it is important to have people alongside you who are encouraging, who strive for excellence, and demonstrate maturity and good character in everything they do.

Build connections with others who know

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the way you seek, who walk their talk, and can show you some of the road.

I often am asked the question: “How do I create an inner circle?” Start by knowing yourself. Know your strengths, your beliefs, your vision or mission.

Remember, nobody does everything well.

Therefore, ask yourself what qualities or characteristics you would like to be known for, such as competencies, experience, performance, age and industry. Find people who believe what you believe, but think different thoughts. If you have some gaps in your current circle, one of the best things to do is go out and meet new people. After some introductions, make a point of following up and getting to know people to determine if they are a good fit.

The inner circle is a two-way relationship.

You want to add value to the other person as much as they add value to you.

Other benefits of developing a personal board of directors include increased confidence and courage in decisionmaking and action-taking so you are not standing alone. Every person on the board extends your influence beyond your reach, and helps you grow and become a fuller version of yourself.

Mother Teresa recognized this principal as well when she said, “You can do what I cannot do. I can do what you cannot do.

Together we can do great things.” FLR Jill Poulton coaches business women who spend too much time at work. She helps them to clarify and prioritize their focus so they can work less while still being profitable.

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Cast of Dragons Den (L-R) Jim Treliving, Kevin O’Leary, Arlene Dickinson, Bruce Croxon, Dianne Buckner & David Chilton. Photo courtesy of CBC.

Women entrepreneurs AGm With DrAGon’s Den success

By Sarah FerguSon photos Shawn Fulton

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In fairy tales, heroes slay dragons, and find treasure that will make them rich. In Saskatchewan five heroes have slain some dragons of their own to come up with millions—and their stories are no fairy tales.

O

n May 11, at the Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Conference, a crowd of the province’s most ambitious women gathered in the Regina Travelodge to hear from five Saskatchewan entrepreneurs who made their way onto the CBC hit series Dragons Den, battled the dragons, and won.

After parking their container in the shipping zone of the hotel for three days, Brian and his partners “Shook hands with Brett, and did the deal.” 3twenty Solutions eventually landed a $500,000 deal with Claude Resources, a supply giant in the mining industry, and the rest is history.

Dragons Den attracts over 2 million viewers on average, and features aspiring entrepreneurs who pitch business concepts to a panel of Canadian multimillionaires in the hopes that they will invest. When Saskatchewan-born businessman W. Brett Wilson joined the dragons, the show became a household favorite. Though Brett left the show in February 2011, the five Saskatchewan businesses that shared their successes at the conference stand as testimony to his support and legacy.

To date, 3twenty Solutions has built 70 bedrooms for mining camps. “We’ve gone from 3 guys and 3000 square feet to 15 guys and 14,000 square feet,” Brian said. The company is on target to build about 200 bedrooms this year, and is expanding their market to China, Australia and South America. “We want to tackle the residential market in the future,” Brian said.

3twenty Solutions Brian McCrea is the co-founder and CEO of 3twenty solutions, a Saskatoon-based company that builds modular camps and offices for the mining, oil and gas industry. Brian and his partners appeared on Dragon’s Den and hit the jackpot when they gained Brett Wilson as an investor.

The idea for his company started while he was completing his business degree at the University of Saskatchewan. “I knew I was an entrepreneur, but I didn’t have a business idea,” he said. Then Brian met Evan Willoughby, an engineering student and, eventually, the two students decided to work together. Evan was convinced that they could make money by turning shipping containers into buildings. When Brian and Evan heard about Dragons Den auditions in Saskatoon, they decided to take the plunge. They were well received by the producers, but obstacles arose. “They said ‘You can come to Toronto but you’ve got to bring the container with you’—and a typical shipping container is 40 feet long,” Brian said. The men built a ten foot container to take with them instead, after drumming up sponsorship from Cameco. “We hitched it up to the one tonne diesel box and drove to Toronto,” he said.

Hillberg & Berk Regina resident Rachel Mielke has taken the fashion and jewelry industries by storm. She was named the Regina Chamber of Commerce’s entrepreneur of the year and received the YWCA’s Women of Distinction Award. She was also recognized by the Saskatchewan Women Entrepreneur’s Association as one of Saskatchewan’s emerging businesses. Mielke won over the Dragons in 2008 and gained the support of Brett Wilson. Today Hillberg & Berk has earned over $2 million in revenue, and Rachel couldn’t be happier.

Born and raised in Regina, Rachel was always interested in the creative arts. Rachel marketed her jewelry under the name Urban Pearl Accessories in 2005. In 2008, Rachel was able to quit her job and run her business full-time. Then she was asked to attend the Oscars gifting lounge in Los Angeles. There were a few challenges in getting there, but Rachel overcame them. “I had to take out a loan and sell most of my stock to go down there, which was a big risk,” she said. In the end, the exposure paid off, and helped publicize her brand across Canada.

Then Rachel learned that Dragons Den was coming to Regina. As soon as she auditioned, Rachel was told that she was going to Toronto. “I spent the next several months preparing more for Dragons Den than I had prepared when I first started my business!” she exclaimed.

Contestants from Dragons Den at Women Entrepreneurs AGM. (L-R) Bryan McCrea (co-founder 3twenty Solutions), Rachel Mielke (owner of Hillberg & Berk), Corla Rokochy (founder of Snappy Socks), Erin Johnson (founder Greener Living Products), Patti Hack (member of Breast Friends), Anne Reynolds (member of Breast Friends) & Laura Small (Emcee and ceo of Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc)

Panel speakers at Women Entrepreneurs AGM. Anne Reynolds & Patti Hack from Breast Friends

“When you get out there, you have ten cameras on you and five business moguls staring you down.”

the director’s just going to yell ‘cut!’ and then you won’t even go to air. Good luck!”

Rachel bartered with the dragons, but all five said they were out . . . or so she thought. After leaving the set in a daze, she went back to her hotel, not realizing that she had a deal. “I shook all the dragons’ hands and Brett said ‘I’m going to do a deal with you outside Dragons Den’ but I didn’t hear him because I was so nervous,” she said. In the end, both Brett Wilson and Arlene Dickenson decided they wanted to invest in Rachel’s business. “It’s been really great working with them,” she said.

Kevin O Leary, Brett Wilson and Arlene Dickenson all offered Corla money for her business. In the end, she decided to work with Brett and Arlene.

Snappy Socks Swift Current resident Corla Rokoschy is a mother of five, and president and founder of Snappy Socks. When Corla appeared on Dragons Den, she walked away with a deal from Arlene Dickenson and Brett Wilson.

Corla has worked as a photographer for 16 years. “Dragons Den was something we sat down every week to watch as a family,” she said. When Corla heard that auditions for the show were being held, she jumped off her couch and onto the Internet.” I told my family that I was going to audition for Dragon’s Den because I wanted to be on it!” she said. Auditions were to be held in Saskatoon, so Corla got a babysitter and drove for five hours to give it a try. She needed an idea to pitch to the dragons, so she decided to work with socks. “I spend seven hours on average sorting socks for my family,” she said. Corla came up with the idea of keeping socks snapped together in the wash to save time. “At the audition, I dumped a pile of socks on the table and told them how many socks I have to sort every week,” she said. The pitch worked. “We found out we were going to Toronto, and I had to round up money to fly the seven people in my family out there,” she said. “I realized not many people get this opportunity and this is a gift that I have to take seriously.”

Over the next few months, Corla did her research. She admitted she was nervous when it came time to face the dragons, but her sense of humor remained intact. “Right before they send you down, they say ‘There are 13 cameras on you that cost taxpayers thousands of dollars per second,’ ” she said, “and if you’re boring,

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Snappy Socks has come a long way in the past year. “We’re going to be distributing our product across the U.S., with Toys R Us Canada and in 100 stores across Canada,” Corla said.

Greener Living Products Erin Johnston holds a degree in human ecology and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta. Married with two children, Erin was a stay at home mom washing cloth diapers when opportunity came knocking. In 2007, Erin and her husband Matt started Greener Living Products, a business devoted to organic cleaning products.

Erin is a Home Economics teacher. Her Family moved to Melfort in 2008. The idea for her business started when her first daughter was born, and Erin decided to use cloth diapers instead of disposable ones. “I love cloth diapers, but I needed the right laundry detergent to clean them,” she said. Through trial and error, Erin tried several detergents with little success. “Then I went online and came across soap nuts,” she said. “They worked! There was no smell at all.”

Back then, Erin and her husband lived in B.C. and she was sewing and selling cloth diapers at the local farmer’s market. “People were asking me how to wash them, so I thought why not bring in some soap nuts . . . I added samples to the diapers and people loved them,” she said. Erin said many of her customers were people who had skin conditions or allergies to perfume.

With the help of her husband, who has a “techie background,” Erin set up a website to sell her detergent. “There were no Canadians selling soap nuts, so I figured we could sell them online,” she said. Eventually, the demand became large enough to facilitate a supplier. Shortly after their move to Melfort, a friend advised Erin to try out for Dragons Den, and she was dumbfounded. “I said to him ‘I don’t own a TV what are you talking about?’ ”

Still, Erin and her husband continued to reinvest their money into their business and in March 2010, they auditioned for the show. To get ready to duel with the dragons, they watched every episode of the show online. “We also made sure that we knew our numbers,” she added. “I didn’t think we would get a deal, but Brett loves the smaller businesses and he said he would do it.”

Erin now reports that since her appearance on Dragons Den, she orders 2500 kilograms of soap nuts at a time. “We go through it all in a just a few months,” she said. And the exposure provided

by Dragons Den has helped her business gain momentum. “It’s growing slowly,” she said.

Recently, Erin got a call from a movie company in Hollywood. “They really wanted our product . . . they were doing a shoot in New York City, and there were requests for organic laundry detergent, so they called us,” she said. Erin and her husband have since worked out a deal with the company, who also plans to use their detergent in some of their other projects.

“Four years ago we had soap nuts in a baggie stapled to a little business card, and now we’re in Hollywood—I can’t believe it!”

Breast Friends Patti Hack and Anne Reynolds are wives, mothers, and former educators. They are also two of ten “Breast Friends” who envision a cure for cancer. Patti runs the office for “Breast Friends” in Foam Lake, and was a teacher and school administrator for 32 years. She retired in 2008. Anne Reynolds was secretary for the elementary school in Foam Lake and retired from that in 2007. Anne is the secretary for Breast Friends, while Patti runs the group’s office.

Breast Friends are a team of ten rural Saskatchewan women who write and publish cookbooks. They pride themselves on raising money for cancer exclusively through their cookbook sales.

The idea started when the group put on a five course meal that was so good, guests kept asking for the recipes. “Patti got us together and said ‘Let’s raise money for cancer by making a cookbook’” Anne said.

The friends typed out their book For the Breasts of Friends and sent it off to a publisher. There were 2500 cookbooks ordered, and all of them sold immediately. Six weeks later, more books arrived and they sold out in three days.

“We knew we were onto something, so we got technologically literate,” Anne continued. “We bought computers, made a website, and did some speaking engagements across Canada—that got us sales.”

Then, one of the group’s members lost her husband to melanoma.

“It broke our hearts, so we decided to do a second cookbook that was aimed at other kinds of cancer,” Anne said. For the Breasts and the Rest of Friends became a national bestseller.

While travelling, the friends got many emails from cancer survivors.

These became the inspiration for their third book, Breast Wishes.

“That book was going to be our swan song,” Patti said.

By that point, Breast Friends had raised over $1 million for cancer.

But another idea arose one day when Patti was driving to Regina.

“I found out about Dragons Den auditions and I asked myself how we could get on the show,” she said. “We’re non-profit, so we had a different approach—we wanted marketing advice, and to make the book more national than regional.”

When the ten breast friends showed up in the Dragons Den studio, Patti said that, “she saw the dragons eyes glaze over. We started telling our story, though, and as they learned more, they sat up straighter. When we mentioned the $1 million dollars, they sat up very straight!” By the end of their meeting, the dragons were so impressed that they offered the friends $50,000.

The friends decided they would take the money and donate it to the charity of the dragons’ choice. We ended up taking the $50,000 they gave us and splitting it into five $10,000 cheques which they gave to charity. “We never saw a dragon,” Patti said. “By the end of it, they were all crying, we were all crying and they were all eating our cookies.” After the episode aired, the friends were inundated with phone calls and emails. “We set up command central in our community church,” Anne said. “Volunteers came to help us package books. We got thousands of orders.” The popularity of the cookbooks was so enormous, that the Foam Lake post office was overwhelmed. “We wrapped them and stamped them in the church so the post office could just run them through.” Financially, the Breast Friends said Dragons Den gave them a boost in sales, but it also made the name Breast Friends a national one. “We get orders from Kentucky to Ohio now,” Patti said. “It’s been a great experience for us.” FLR

Contestants from Dragons Den at Women Entrepreneurs AGM. (L-R) Patti Hack, Erin Johnson, Corla Rokochy, Bryan McCrea, Rachel Mielke

CFL ALL-StArS ViSit ArCoLA Community SChooL

BY RYAN HOLOTA PHOTO CAL FEHR

A

rcola Community School has a need for sports, play and playground equipment. Left without a playground for the better part of three years, the students struggle to find the activities that they need to play and learn through sport and recreation.

On Thursday May 3, 2012 former CFL Players Damon Allen, Bobby Jurasin, Don Narcisse and Brooks Findlay attended a presentation of new sports and play equipment at the school. The gymnasium was packed with students, teachers, press, football players and

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members of the Regina Public School Board. The equipment was donated by Western Cycle Source for Sports. Western Cycle, called Canada’s second oldest bicycle shop by Pedal Magazine, celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2012, and this was their way of giving back to the community that has helped to support them for the last century.

Each of the former CFL players took a turn addressing a gymnasium full of students, teachers and press. Their message was one of hope and determination; a reminder to the students that hard

Brooks Findlay, Don Narcisse, Bobby Jurasin and Damon Allen

work is rewarded. Regina Realtor® Brooks Findlay, a long-time supporter of the Arcola Community School, former Roughrider, and current business leader in Regina, also took the time to reinforce the needs that the school has and to share his story of success with the students.

The presentation also marked the beginning of the Don Narcisse All-Star Event presented by Viterra weekend. The Don Narcisse All-Star Event presented by Viterra is held in Regina in support of Kidsport, and features more than 30 sponsors from the community.

One of the events is the Football Camp.

Don Narcisse took the opportunity to call three students up from the crowd to share the stage with him. These students, who had been identified by the teachers as hard working boys, were used to illustrate that those who practice dedication and commitment are rewarded. After being given a chance to wear Don Narcisse’s AllStar, Plaza of Honour and Grey Cup rings, they were told that they

were being given passes to the Football Camp on Saturday May 5th.

At the camp, led by head coach Larry Thompson, students seven to 18 will be divided into age appropriate groups and taught individual and team techniques for both offence and defense from CFL AllStars, members of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Saskatchewan Roughrider Alumni and Canadian Football Hall of Famers. Allen, Jurasin and Narcisse will all be working with the children, as will Chris Getzlaf of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Geroy Simon of the B.C. Lions.

The final fundraiser of the All-Star Event is the Endzone Experience, where attendees are given a chance to share drinks, dinner and stories with CFL legends and current players. To learn more about next year’s event, visit Don Narcisse’s web site www.donnarcisse. com). If you are interested in helping Arcola Community School, or any other school, contact the Regina Public or Regina Catholic School Boards. FLR

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Leather and Lace

By Sarah FerguSon

F

ootball has always been viewed as a man’s sport, but times are changing. In the past few years, on the football fields of Saskatchewan, a new breed of woman has emerged—one that is proving that the game is just as much a part of their make up as their male counterparts. Today, there is little doubt that football in Saskatchewan is separating the women from the girls.

With a variety of leagues to pick from, Saskatchewan women who want to play football have more choices than ever before. While many women can opt to play touch or minor football, many are playing the field in full equipment, ready to tackle their opponents.

Thanks to the recent addition of the Western Women’s Canadian Football League (WWCFL) and the highly publicized Lingerie

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Football League (LFL) to the mix, Saskatchewan women who want to play tackle football ultimately have two choices: leather or lace.

“Raging” to Succeed It’s a rainy spring day in Regina—too cold for football, some might argue, and tryouts for the Lingerie Football League’s Regina Rage have moved from an outdoor football field into a local high school gym. Inside, pairs of wet running shoes are piled against the gym entrance, and the twenty or so women who own them are hard at work, eager to prove that they are the best, toughest and strongest of the lot. There is a sense of urgency and intensity in the air as they move through their drills. Watching the players push themselves as they run patterns and try to outdo each other, one quickly forgets that these women are participating in a controversial event.

Since its arrival in the Queen City, the LFL has received its share of criticism.

Some say the idea of watching a bunch of girls tackling each other in their underwear is scandalous and degrading. Others call it a choice. The uniforms, which consist of hockey helmets, garters, bras, and panties, as well as shoulder, elbow and knee pads, have raised safety concerns. No matter how you look at it, the LFL causes a stir, which is precisely what Mitchell Mortaza wants.

Mortaza is the commissioner and founder of the LFL. Tall, lanky, and sporting a West Hollywood tan, he flew into town on the morning of the tryout to watch the girls play. “It’s my first time in Regina, and it’s a great city,” he said. “To drive past Mosaic Stadium and know about the legendary prowess behind it all was really cool . . . we’re excited to be here.”

But the Regina Rage won’t be playing at Mosaic Stadium. Instead, they’ll play indoors at the Brandt Centre. And aside from the lack of clothing worn by the players, viewers can expect to see other differences in the game as well.

An Instant Hit? Lingerie football is an arena -based league. Each team has seven women, one fewer than the eight players found in other indoor leagues. Teams consist of 20 players, and only 14 of them dress for game day, which means three to four play both offensive and defensive positions. There are no field goals, and no punts in the game, either. The game also retains its American roots, and uses a four down system. Still, Mortaza is optimistic that his league will be an instant hit in the province.

The Regina Rage is one of four new Canadian teams that were added to the 11 American-based LFL teams in 2012. Other teams in the expansion include the Saskatoon Sirens, the BC Angels and the Toronto Triumph.

The league has enjoyed popularity in the U.S. and loyal fans have tuned in from 43 countries worldwide. Mortaza said that when he decided to expand the U.S.-based league into Canadian territory, the city of Regina made the top of his list. “We were very interested in Regina because of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the fanaticism surrounding them,” he said.

But will Regina be as receptive to the Rage as it has been to its CFL team?

Mortaza admits that Regina’s market is “somewhat conservative and purist” when it comes to football, meaning that it may not be an easy sell.

“When we go into an entirely new country that has little visibility to LFL football, and people hear ‘lingerie football,’ you’re going to have skeptics,” he said, “but that will change once the first game happens.”

And Mortaza says that the name of the league is misleading. “It’s part of the maturation of the brand,” he said matter-of-factly. “I can try to

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convince people that it’s real football and they’re not going to care- It’s still going to be called the lingerie football league,” he said.

“Unfortunately we have to use that name to attract media attention and fanfare.

It’s part of the equation, and we’re very honest about that.”

The commissioner is also quick to defend the notion that the LFL is nothing more than a bunch of women chasing each other around in their underwear.

“In the states, 94 per cent of our women are former collegiate athletes,” he said.

“It’s too bad that they’re being judged because of the name of the brand.”

Lingerie League Hopefuls For Ashley Richter and Kylie Rossler, playing in the LFL is all about loving sports, not about shock value. Both girls say that the judgments people make about the league doesn’t affect them one bit. Ashley and Kylie have played hockey for most of their lives. Both went Mitchell Mortaza

to the U.S. on hockey scholarships and played in the NCAA. The girls said they learned about the LFL in their travels, and thought it would be worth a try, but were too busy with their hockey careers.

“I was in Vermont and she was in Pittsburgh,” said Ashley, pointing at Kylie, “So we didn’t get a chance to play.”

Ashley calls herself “an aggressive girl,” and says she is up for the challenge of making the team. “Sports are an outlet, and they give you a place to give it all,” she said. “I come from a hockey family, but we’re a football family too . . . this is a chance for me to become a football player like everyone else in my family.”

Kylie has a sense of humor about the tryout process, but says she enjoys having the opportunity to play as well. “I’ve never played football before, to be honest,” she giggled. “Trying out for the LFL started out as a joke with my teammates, we were all saying ‘we should do that.’ Then, when I moved back to Canada, I heard about a team coming here and wanted to try out.”

Justine Barnes is 21 years old and has played soccer for her entire life. She came to try out for the Rage because of the support from her family. “My dad actually wanted me to try out,” she said. “He knows I can throw and catch a football pretty well.”

Jill Koot is a national level bodybuilding athlete from Swift Current who played hockey for the University of Saskatchewan for several years. Her husband, also a bodybuilder, came out to support her during the tryout. “Training and dieting is part of our lifestyle,” she said. “Playing for the LFL is just another challenge and another exciting sport to get involved with.”

After the tryout, Mortaza said he was impressed with what he saw. “There are four or five ladies here that could easily be all stars, even in the US league,” he said.

“Out of all the ladies here today, you will probably have 7 or 8 that will end up on the eventual team,” Mortaza said. “It’s all about finding the best athletes to represent the Regina Rage.”

The Rage will hold a mini camp in June when the core group of women who make up the team will come together. Training camp starts in July. From that point on, practices will be held 3-4 times a week leading up to August 25 when the LFL season opens in Abbotsford.

Playing football is a RIot It’s a windy spring afternoon in Regina, and members of the Regina Riot are gathering in the Rochdale Superstore parking lot to wait for their team bus. Rush end Becky Wallis is one of the first team members to arrive. Wallis is no slouch. She drives all the way from yorkton to play, and even though it’s her first year on the field, she has a reputation for being one of the most passionate players on the team.

“I’ve always loved football,” she said. “My husband plays and I’ve always wanted to try it but I’ve never had the opportunity before.” When Becky learned about the Riot, she couldn’t resist making the trip to Regina to give it a shot. “It was close enough for me to come and play,” she said.

The Regina Riot is part of the WWCFL which was founded in

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Photo by Mark Grzyb Saskatoon Valkyries Players: (17) Elena Kube, (66) Brand Sokoloski, (29) Gillian Allen

2011. The seven team league has a presence in Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Manitoba, Saskatoon, Winnipeg and Regina.

The league prides itself on breaking stereotypes associated with women and football in general, and stresses the empowerment of women through the sport. It is also the first all-women’s inter provincial tackle football league in Western Canada. To play the game, women must wear full equipment. The league uses amateur rules which are almost identical to CFL rules. That means three downs and a wider field—the type of football that most Saskatchewan people have grown to love.

2012 - the Season to Come Last year was the Riot’s inaugural season in the WWCFL. It ended in disappointment with a 36-6 loss to the eventual leaguechampion Saskatoon Valkyries, but in one year, the Regina Riot has already gained momentum. With increased enrollment and a group of seasoned players, things are definitely looking up.

“It’s looking incredible,” said Melissa Park, the Riot’s General Manager.” I couldn’t be happier with our veteran players who are returning, and we have some incredible talent coming through in the rookie players this year.”

The team’s general manager said she is equally impressed with the Riot’s coaches, who she says have a renewed sense of energy. “We were new when they stepped in last year, and they started from scratch . . . this year, we are taking it back to basics.”

Since the word has spread about women’s tackle football in the province, enrollment has skyrocketed.

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“I was talking to a woman in Edmonton and they only run with rosters of 30 to 35 girls and they lose half of those people every year. Calgary is the same,” said Melissa. “In Regina, we start with 50 people and Saskatoon is the same . . . the Valkyries had close to 50 as well.”

So why is tackle football all the rage in Saskatchewan? According to Melissa, the drive has always been there— girls simply need a place to play.

“Many of us have been watching for so many years,” she said. “you go to the park and play with the boys and your buddies, but you’ve never had the chance to step on the field. you just know that there are girls out there that want to play the game.”

“Our coach puts it beautifully,” she added. “He said the only difference between the football we play and what you see on TV is gender.”

“Football is one sport that all women can play,” Riot Quarterback Aimee Kowalski said. “There’s a position for every shape and size. It doesn’t matter how big or small you are—one day you could be an average Joe and the next you could be an athlete— no matter who you are.”

The league puts the safety of its players first and foremost, and good protection is important, says Melissa. “Obviously the equipment doesn’t protect you from everything, but it will protect you from the knocks and hits and bruises,” she said. “Football can be a dangerous game, but if you’re properly padded and protected, it’s not so bad.”

The Riot is proud to say that they own about 95 percent of their equipment. Fees are part of belonging to the team, but Melissa says the league tries to keep them reasonable. Local sponsors have helped lighten the load. “The biggest expense is travel,” she said. “This year we’re going to Edmonton and the team there is hosting a tournament, but you’re looking at three to four thousand for the bus and another three thousand for rooms, so it really adds up.”

John Baxter is the coach for the Regina Riot, and says the team has a better than average shot at the championship this year. He stresses that above all, the league is meant to empower his players. “Our league is for these girls . . . it belongs to them,” he said.

The Regina Riot will play four games this season. The first two were in May: one in Saskatoon and the other on May 27 when the Riot took on the Manitoba Fearless in Brandon.

“They’re trying to expand the league, so we’re having the game in Brandon to drum up interest and hopefully start a team there for the 2013 season,” Melissa said. The WWCFL season comes to an end with the championship game on July 14 which will be held in Saskatoon.

Flight of the Valkyries A Valkyrie is defined as “the chooser of the slain”—and the Saskatoon Valkyries had the choice of slaying every team in the WWCFL last year, when they became league champions.

Michelle Duchene is the team’s General Manager and says that the championship win has fuelled the desires of women who want to be part of the Valkyries’ winning spirit, and as a result more people showed up for tryouts this year.

“We’ve increased our numbers,” she said. “Last year we had about 30 people show up and this year we’ve had over 50 which is where we want to be.”

Duchene said the secret to the Valkyries success last year was coaching. “We had ten coaches last year for 35 people,” she said. Considering that most teams have just three coaches, the Valkyries had an incredible advantage during last year’s season, making them virtually unstoppable. “We were very fortunate that we had a bunch of people that came out and taught us how to play football,” Michelle said. “That was a huge factor.” And Saskatoon also had some amazing athletes on the field from a variety of disciplines.

“We had athletes who specialized in hockey, basketball, track, volleyball, touch football, and rugby too,” Michelle said.

Michelle also has a great deal of expertise in the world of football.

She started as a trainer with the Huskie football team in University. Then she worked with the Saskatoon Hilltops for seven years,

before joining minor football as a trainer. Her big break came when she got an opportunity to travel with Team Canada to the world women’s championship in 2010 in Sweden.

“I’ve also gotten involved as a board member,” she adds” I’ve been on the executive for Football Saskatchewan, on the executive for Saskatoon minor football, and I did some work for Football Canada.” Adding to her impressive resume, Michelle played touch football for 13 years and currently serves on the executive for the touch football league and the WWCFL. There is no doubt that expertise has served the team well, but offensive and defensive player Jessie Buydens says winning is also about passion for the game. “The girls are passionate,” she said.

“They’re very excited to be given the opportunity to play for the Valkyries and hopefully win again.”

Jessie was a seasoned rugby player who was invited to try out for the Valkyries in 2010. She wound up making the tryouts and going to the world championships with Team Canada. It was a great start that led to a lifelong love of football. She says her favorite part of the game is playing contact sports on the same terms as the men. “We have the same rules as the guys and the same equipment as the guys,” she said. “That’s one of the things I like about our football: there’s no modification to reduce contact or eliminate it.”

Karlie Jackson turns 23 in June and made her start on the Valkyries team last year as a wide receiver. This year, she will play defensive back, and says playing football is a dream come true. When I went out to the first practice, the girls were really accepting,” she said. “The first time we put on the pads and actually started hitting I was hooked.”

When Karlie was in high school, she longed to play football with the boys. “My mom wouldn’t let me because I’m a pretty small person,” she said. “When I heard about the Valkyries, I thought ‘she can’t tell me not to play because I’m an adult now’ and I decided to try out.”

The young defensive back says that winning the championship is a double edged sword. “We’re going to have a big target on our backs, but if we just stay humble and we give it our best, I can’t see why we won’t have a good season.”

She urges any girl who is interested in playing football to jump in with both feet, and leave the skepticism at the door. “Playing the game broadens horizons for a lot of girls, and if you put your mind to anything, you can do it,” she said. “There’s no reason that a girl can’t play football.” FLR www.wwcfl.com www.reginariotfootball.com www.saskatoonvalkyries.com www.lflus.com

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SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

BY SHAWNA COMMON PHOTOS SHAWN FULTON

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ndustrial Luv started in 2002 as an online store, and moved into their retail space in 2006. Local owner Doug Boos constructed the space specifically for Industrial Luv, which features super-size changing rooms, custom built shelves and displays, and a clean and classy interior.

Manager Lisa, who has been with the company for over four years, is very knowledgeable and helpful.

Industrial Luv carries a full range of lingerie by Coquette International, Elegant Moments and Dream Girl in regular and plus sizes, as well as

Canadian manufacturer Greg Homme men’s underwear. Industrial Luv also custom orders lingerie for its customers, so their selection is not limited to what the customer sees in the store.

Staff receive intensive training, are very open, positive, knowledgeable and friendly, and are committed to excellent customer service.

Industrial Luv ensures there are always the most popular brands in stock, such as WeVibe, Doc Johnson, California Novelties, BMS and Lelo. They also carry Pleaser USA shoes and boots for club wear and bedroom play.

Edible Kama Sutra Honey Dust can be used for recreation, as well as for antiperspirant, and anti-chaffing powder for adults. A range of books, educational DVDs, greeting cards, novelty items, massage products, lubricants, games, spa, bath and shower products, and many of other products can help you grow as a couple, and spice up any relationship. The staff at Industrial Luv recognizes the importance of a healthy sex life for successful relationships.

“Industrial Luv isn’t just for people experiencing problems in their relationships. Industrial Luv is for anyone wanting to complement a healthy intimate relationship, or experience new and exciting ways to pleasure,” explains Lisa.

Industrial Luv has a wide selection of products, and the friendly staff is helpful and knowledgeable about all products carried by the store. Custom orders are available for all products at no extra charge, and Industrial Luv consultants will also host private home parties for anyone wanting a fun event. “We have access to a larger stock than the retail space allows,” explains Lisa, “that’s why we don’t charge for custom ordering. We have a 14 day return policy for manufacturing defects.

Some of our suppliers also carry a one year manufacturer warranty. We also have a 14 day exchange policy for lingerie. That is helpful for those who purchase lingerie for others, and find that it doesn’t fit. We have the best selection of lingerie and toys in town.”

Industrial Luv also has an interactive website for your shopping pleasure. Any mail orders will only be charged the actual postage, and not a shipping charge. All products at Industrial Luv are very affordable, and it is a fully functional and well-rounded love store. They are open seven days a week in Regina’s Warehouse District located at 1933 8th Avenue. FLR Industrial Luv 1933 8th Avenue Regina (306) 522-4542 www.industrialuv.com Models appear courtesy of Skylight Models Inc. Make up artist Michelle Loustell, founder of MJ Studios Set Decor provided by Basket Cases Regina

Ford Provides ChoiCe to Green drivers

By Nykea Behiel

ith gas prices constantly on the rise, consumers are looking for fuel-efficient vehicles more than ever before. Aside from gas prices, many consumers are also becoming increasingly aware of the impact their driving has on the environment. Ford is giving its clientele the power of choice with their new products. From ultra-efficient gas powered cars, to hybrids, to a fully electric five passenger car, Ford has sustainable vehicles for any customer.

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William Ford, great grandson of the illustrious Henry T. Ford, passed the title of CEO to Alan Mulally in 2006. Still serving as executive chairman for the company, Bill asked that Alan work toward creating more environmentally friendly vehicles. They have.

Ford has also incorporated many green materials into their production, and has plans to go even further. As an effort to use more renewable and recyclable materials, they have pioneered the use of soy-based foam for seats. By the end of this year, almost all Ford's vehicles will feature the bio-based foam.

Ford is also increasing their use of biodegradable plastics derived from the sugars in corn, sugar beet, and cane. This will mostly be used for carpeting, mats, upholstery, and interior trim. They also use wheat-straw reinforced plastic, grown by our neighbours in Alberta. Even recycled blue jeans are used in the 2012 Focus for carpet backing and sound absorption. These changes are not only beneficial to the environment, but can lighten the vehicle without detracting from overall safety.

Mark van Tol, communications manager at Ford, has come to Saskatoon from Toronto to explain some of the new features.

He assures us that Ford is making big commitments, but moving at a comfortable pace to ensure that the safety and power tantamount to the Ford name remain intact.

I signed a waiver and hopped into the Ford escape, an SUV equipped with EcoBoost technology—a global Ford engine that increases fuel economy by nearly 20 percent while reducing CO2 emissions by up to 15 per cent. Driving the smooth SUV, I have a better understanding of why many of us Saskatchewanians enjoy big vehicles. The smooth drive, fuel economy, and safety are important considerations. Equally important to me is the extra room for suitcases so I can indulge the ridiculous overpacker in me.

The plug in hybrid is for people who do a mixture of city driving and out of town driving. "The charging port will give you a 30 to 35 kilometre range, then the gas will kick in," relays Mark. It is targeted to be the most fuel-efficient sedan in North America.

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FORD ESCAPE an SUV equipped with EcoBoost technology

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The most impressive design is the battery Focus electric. It is a completely electric car that gives off no emissions. Besides being cheaper, it costs around two to three dollars to charge, there is less maintenance and no oil changes.

Charging only takes three and half hours plus efficient driving lets you go even longer on one charge. Ideal for city driving, this car has a system called brake coach that displays your power usage. You can also set your vehicle to charge at the most energy efficient times using an app developed by Ford which lets you access your vehicle information from anywhere—have your car heated or cooled to a comfortable temperature when you get out of the plane or head home from work.

I had the chance to drive one of these cars as well. Aside from the air conditioning, the car runs almost silently. I also quickly found out that the car’s sleek curves were matched by its smooth handling. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, all the power is available to you instantly, providing satisfaction to those of us that have a little bit of a heavy foot.

Ford’s commitment to improving their overall product sustainability is clear. They offer a host of fuel-efficient vehicles, and will have five either partly or fully electrified vehicles available in North America by the end of the year. FLR

Making a commitment to driving a greener vehicle is now fun and sustainable.

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2012 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4X4 FX4

2012 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4X4 Lariat

5.0L V8 engine, 6 speed Automatic Transmission, Loaded, Locking Diff, 6 CD changer, Rear View camera, Trailer brake controller, power heated mirrors, and more...

5.0L V8 engine, 6 speed Automatic Transmission Loaded, Lariat Chrome PAckage, Locking Diff, Moonroof, 6 CD Changer, Rear view Camera, and more...

MSRP $55,599

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MSRP $48,709

Capital Ford Price: $39,978

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plus freight

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2012 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4X4 XLT Stock #L1153

5.0L V8 engine, 6 speed Automatic Transmission, Loaded, Locking Diff, SYNC, Skid Plates, Tailgate Step, and more...

MSRP $43,289

Capital Ford Price: $28,987 plus freight

Save over $14,000 2012 Ford F250 SuperCab 4X4 XLT Stock #L680

6.2L V8 engine, 6 speed Automatic Transmission, Western Edition, Rear View Camera, Fog Lights, SYNC, FX4 Off-Road Package, Skid Plates , up fitter switches, and much more...

MSRP $50614

Capital Ford Price: $37,980 plus freight

Save over $12,500

2013 Ford F350 SuperCrew 4X4 XTR Stock #L1013

6.7L Powerstroke Engine, 6 Speed Auto Transmission, XTR Appearance Package - Advanced Security, Chrome Tube Steps, Fog lights, trailer tow mirrors, backglass defrost, upfitter switches, rear view camera, and much much more...

MSRP $68,509

Capital Ford Price: $51,980 plus freight

Save over $16,000

306-543-5410 | 1201 Pasqua Street North, Regina | www.capitalfordlincoln.com

Finally Arrived, over 200 New Trucks to choose from!

CAPITAL FORD IS THE LARGEST TRUCK RETAILER IN SASKATCHEWAN

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Capital Lincoln 1201 Pasqua Street North Regina, Sk. S4X 4P7 306 543-5410 capitallincoln.ca

SERVICE, PRODUCTS AND CARE:

MAXIMIZING YOUR VEHICLE`S POTENTIAL

bY Bill Sorochan Photos ShaWn FUlTon

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moke ‘Em Diesel Performance is Saskatchewan’s premiere diesel performance shop located just north of Regina. Family-owned-andoperated, they specialize in servicing, maintaining and transforming light into heavy duty trucks, farm equipment and Class eight semi-trucks. They are committed to the safe increase of fuel efficiency, and to the productivity of your personal or professional vehicle.

Owners Denny and Leslie Jorgenson started the company in the fall 2007.

They aim to provide premium customer service and industry leading products at an affordable price, for all makes and models of diesel and gas vehicles and machinery. Both Denny and Leslie draw upon many years of practical experience

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to deliver to their customers.

Smoke ‘Em Diesel has been extremely busy, thanks to their ability to increase your vehicle`s fuel efficiency by more than 20 per cent. Their shop has recently undergone a major renovation, adding six additional bays. According to Leslie, the increased demand for service and expert advice warranted the expansion.

“The amount of work doubled, so we were concerned about the wait time for our customers. We now have 14 working bays which can service any size of vehicle. We have 11 full-time industry trained and certified staff, so a customer just has to phone, and we can usually get them in prior to any wait times. The additional space has helped enormously

to service out-of-town customers and shift workers on a tight schedule.”

For Leslie, the positive word of mouth from her customers has been the most gratifying aspect of the expansion.

Customer satisfaction and quality of service are top priority to Denny and Leslie.

“It became clear that customers were very happy with the results they were getting after we serviced their vehicles.

The work that we do on farm equipment helped to substantially decrease the amount of fuel usage. Farmers told us they were able to run a full 18 hour day without stopping to refuel. The majority of new customers were recommended from satisfied ones who we’ve already worked

(l-r) Brock, Nikki, Leslie, Denny (inside truck), Derek and Tony. ToP Ryan and Erik.

Missing: Richard

with. When new customers visit our showroom, and see the full line of products that we carry and services we offer, we’re confident we can find a way to assist them to maximize their vehicle`s potential. That’s always been our number one goal: to help each and every customer save money by maximizing the potential of their vehicle. The savings go directly to your bottom line.” located 10 on Highway and you will Smoke ‘Em

Call Smoke ‘Em Diesel at (306) 545-5911, or visit them online at www.smokem.ca, or at www.

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Smoke ‘Em Diesel 10 miles north of Regina on Highway 6 (306) 545-5911 www.smokem.ca www.facebook.com/smokethem

to White City Albert Street

Smoke ‘Em Diesel is miles north of Regina Six. Follow their signs, find the unmistakable Diesel Performance.

facebook.com/smokethem. You can also download the free iOS app or the free Android app, and get all of Smoke ‘Em Diesel`s news, products and specials delivered to the palm of your hand. FLR

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1

Gear up at riders Gear shop

BY SARAH FERGUSON PHOTOS SHAWN FULTON

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f you’re a motorcycle enthusiast looking for a one stop shop that carries quality riding clothing and apparel, come down to Riders Gear Shop and gear up—we have everything you need.

They say necessity is the mother of invention and with a lack of quality motorsport clothing available in the Queen City, the concept for Riders Gear Shop was born. We offer an old school,

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traditional style shopping experience, where our customers can touch, feel or try on the clothing we sell. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

Riders Gear Shop is a new concept store.

Shops like ours do not exist, even in larger cities. Our large inventory selection combined with our ability to source out the best suppliers means we can get you exactly what you need, when you need

it. We are a non-commission shop, and our friendly, no pressure sales team always puts the customer first.

Our shop specializes in protective gear, apparel and casual clothing. We are a one-of-a-kind clothing only shop (no parts or repairs) and carry unique brands you won’t find anywhere else at affordable prices. Whether you are into sporting the latest riding fashions on

your Cruiser, or you want to check out our selection of MX and street bike apparel, we have something for every rider. You will find exclusive brand names like Milwaukee, First Manufacturing, Joe Rocket, Rubber Side Down, Zox, Shoei, Lucky 13 Apparel, Hot Leathers, Zan and many, many more. Riders Gear Shop also offers a variety of brands not normally seen in Regina. Come check it out for yourself, and take home something unique that will make you stand out in a crowd.

At Riders Gear Shop, “whatever you ride, we’ve got you covered!”

We also carry top quality ATV gear year round, and snowmobile protective wear during the winter season. We want to ensure that you ride in fashionable comfort every time, with brands like Motorfist, Castle, Scott, Slednecks, 509 and many others. Whether you are hitting the winter trails or braving harsh mountain terrain, you can count on Riders Gear Shop to help make your ride safe, comfortable and worthwhile.

owner Keith Cowen helps customer Ken McKinnon choose a helmet.

Whether you’ve been riding for years or are just starting out, Riders Gear Shop has the right gear for all your needs. We carry gear for men, women and every member of the family. You will love our huge selection, affordable prices and appreciate the high level of customer support we provide. Come to Riders Gear Shop for a memorable shopping experience. Once you’ve experienced our shop, we know you’ll continue to choose us for all your future gear needs.

At Riders Gear Shop, “whatever you ride, we’ve got you covered!” FLR

Riders Gear Shop 1455 Rose Street 306.545.4327 ridersgearshop@sasktel.net www.ridersgearshop.com Models appear courtesy of Skylight Models Inc.

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Over 2 Million Truck Beds Protected with Line-X

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LINE-X | 1308 McIntyre St. Regina, Sk. | 306.569.2273 www.line-x.ca

EXCLUSIVE FEATURE REGINA

BEST of the BEST PROFILING MANY OF REGINA AND AREA’S BEST BUSINESSES, PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Saskatchewan Best of the Best

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veryone loves to brag about where they come from, and in Saskatchewan we are no different. With an abundance of natural resources, scenic prairie beauty and warm and welcoming people, it is easy to see why so many families and young people are looking at Saskatchewan as a place to call home. Regina, our Queen City, is an important hub in a province basking in rich growth and development.

Deemed a land of opportunity and labelled with the nickname “Saska-boom,” our province is the envy of her sister provinces. As the mining, oil and agricultural industries flourish, Saskatchewan has become ``the talk of the town``, and country.

Regina has become a hub of development where you can find some of the best shops and businesses in the province. Plenty of opportunities exist for jobs as more companies relocate or expand to our fair city. Businesses and families know a better quality of life exists here. It’s no wonder that MoneySense recently place Regina in the top five best cities in Canada.

According to the United Nations’ Human Development Index, Canada is one of the top 10 countries in which to live due to our strong social safety net and enthusiastic support of education for all. These same criteria also claims Saskatchewan is the best place to reside in Canada based on quality of life, as per www.saskjobs.ca, the Province of Saskatchewan’s jobsite.

Regina is also proud to be home to the Global Transportation Hub (GTH), connecting Saskatchewan with the world. The GTH is a newly developed major Canadian transportation and

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logistics centre in western Canada which provides rail access to all major Canadian ports, Gulf Coast ports and mid-western US trans-shipment points, along with trucking connections to all major networks including the Trans-Canada, Minneapolis/ St. Paul, Chicago and Mexico.

Healthcare A growing population requires a growing health care system.

In Saskatchewan, the number of people waiting six months or more for surgery has decreased by 56 per cent since November 2007. New health complexes are opening, such as the one in Watrous, and new surgery and outpatient facilities are being planned. The continued changing face of our health care system is a positive evolution that will continue to carry our province through the 21st century.

The Great Outdoors When visiting the beautiful city of Regina, the picturesque Wascana Park is a popular location. Bringing the beauty of the prairies to the city, this nine kilometre park is built around Wascana Lake, and is home to such landmarks as the Saskatchewan Legislative Building, University of Regina, the Conexus Arts Centre and more.

Whether you’re into fishing, swimming, hiking, camping or birding, Saskatchewan is a nature-lover’s dream come true.

The natural beauty of the vibrant prairie skies combined with a diverse terrain featuring more than 100,000 freshwater lakes attracts visitors from across North America, Europe and beyond.

Best of the Best (in order of appearance)

d3h Hotels Kelturn Drywall Pro Guard Services Wheatland Roofing 3D Real Estate Investments Amerispec of Regina Spring Green Homes Janine Wilson, REALTOR® Tidy Time Saver Regina Renaissance Retirement Living CNG Stone Products Sunset Bay Hot Tubs Universal Plumbing & Heating MLP Building Inspections & Construction Consulting Budget Blinds Capital Ford Lincoln Bell Tire With two national parks, 23 provincial parks, almost 100 regional parks and numerous parks and recreation sites, Saskatchewan offers a wide selection for people of all ages to enjoy year-round outdoor activities.

Arts and Culture Saskatchewan has more museums per capita that anywhere else in Canada.

Do you love natural history? The Royal Saskatchewan Museum in Regina is a treat for the whole family. Are you travelling around the province? The Western Development Museums located in Saskatoon, North Battleford, Moose Jaw and Yorkton are a welcome break on any road trip.

Theatre, music and other entertainment are prevalent in our province. We love to show how much talent we have with a wide variety of festivals such as Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan, Regina Folk Fest, the Saskatoon Jazz Festival and so much more.

Sports There’s no getting around it, Saskatchewan people love their sports. When it comes to cheering on our professional football team, major junior hockey teams, local baseball team or neighbourhood soccer teams, there are few fans more loyal than in Saskatchewan.

Wholesome Living Regina residents love to work hard and play hard. A well rounded life filled with a fulfilling career, loving family, dedicated friends and quality living – that’s what we all dream about. That`s life in Saskatchewan. FLR

Regina LINE-X® (ASPART-X™) Capital Pontiac Buick Cadillac GMC Mediterranean Bistro Krazy Kileys Regina Valley Girls Catering Kergano’s, Moose Jaw The UPS Store Regina Spices of Punjab Uforia Muse Oxford Learning Regina MJ Studios Pro Cosmetics Truly Unique Country Weddings Elements Hair Design Fire & Ice Custom Jewellery Fabutan Sun Tan Studios Fazio Boutique Wascana Remedial Massage Dermalojik Medical Aesthetics Weight Loss Forever Mayfair Diagnostics

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Councillor Michael Bob, Mayor James Wilson, Chief Sheldon Taypotat, Councillor Edna Lavalle-Crowe, Councillor Iris Taypotat, Councillor Vera Wasacase

NEW HOTELS FOR SWIFT CURRENT AND YORKTON

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n May 31, 2012 d3h celebrated, along with Kahkewistehaw First Nations, in the Framing-Out Celebration of the new Home Inn & Suites – Yorkton. This marks Kahkewistehaw’s first hotel purchase on behalf of the band. D3h is proud to be a part of the development by providing construction and management services on behalf of the ownership group.

The Framing-Out Celebration was well attended with over 100 people from the band, media and local community businesses. Mayor James Wilson of Yorkton, Chief Sheldon Taypotat and Kahkewistehaw Board Member Michael Bob were in attendance showing their unwavering support of this new project.

Chief Sheldon Taypotat of the Kahkewistahaw First Nation, states “It’s a dream come true in economic development. This wasn’t decided overnight, it was decided five or six years ago. It’s been a long time coming, BEST

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and it’s going to create opportunities for jobs, create revenue for us to start other business ventures, and help the people of Yorkton as well.”

“We wanted to work with someone who knew about hotels and construction.

D3h has a number of hotels across the country, so they’ve agreed to work with us and help us build,” Taypotat says.

Don Rosten, CEO of d3h Hotels states, “d3h Hotels is extremely pleased to be working with Kahkewistehaw First Nations to construct and manage the Home Inn & Suites - Yorkton. We believe Yorkton has maintained strong economic growth, and we are looking forward to bringing a new and unique hotel product to the city. Kahkewistehaw’s unwavering support of our management group and this project has been outstanding, and we look forward to working with them now and in the future.”

“It has taken a great deal of hard work to get to this stage,” Taypotat adds, “I’m very

proud of my members and I’m very proud of the hotel that’s going up - it’s going to make many opportunities for people.”

The hotel will be located in the same parking lot as the Painted Hand Casino and steps to the new Gallagher Centre which houses the Farrell Agencies Arena; the Flexihall, a sports fieldhouse; curling rink; convention centre; leisure water park including wave pool, waterslide, lane pool and more; and several related businesses.

Along with multiple reservations already, the hotel has also been named the Host Hotel for the Saskatchewan Association of Fire Chiefs Convention and Tradeshow in 2013. For more information about the hotel, please visit www.homeinnyorkton.ca.

Home Inn & Suites – Swift Current, twin-sister hotel, will be opening August 17. For more information, visit www.HomeSwiftCurrent.ca To make a reservation, please call (306) 778-7788.

The two hotels will house a combination of 80 limited service room types to larger suites which include a full kitchen. Features of Home Inn & Suites include free HomeEssentials breakfast with hot items, relaxing indoor pool area with 2-story waterslide and whirlpool, and business centre with printing and faxing capabilities. New to the Home franchise is the addition of meeting/event space with capacity up to 30 people featuring built-in LCD projector and whiteboard, large windows and exquisite French door access to an outside patio, exceptional for small weddings, reunions, and small gatherings.

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

Candy McBride recognized for leadership The first YWCA Saskatoon Women of Distinction Award® dinner was held over 30 years ago. Since then, over 700 women in all walks of life have been recognized for their accomplishments and achievements as mentors, volunteers, activists, teachers, leaders and researchers.

We are proud to announce that Candy McBride, Chief Human Resource Officer of d3h Hotels, was nominated for a Woman of Distinction Award in the category of Leadership and Management. Candy started with d3h Hotels 10 years ago along with only 4 staff. Now, there are 19 staff at d3h Head Office based in Saskatoon and over 250 employees in the hotels. Recently, Candy went to visit families of some staff in the Philippines, working at an orphanage serving food to 400 children. She has been instrumental in developing policies, procedures, employee incentive and training programs and wellness programs.

By creating a strong, motivated workforce, Candy has personally ensured that each employee feels valued and supported by treating everyone she works with as if they were her extended family.FLR

d3h Hotels 1139 - 8th Street E. Saskatoon, SK 306.249.2882 www.d3h.ca OUR FAMILY OF HOTELS Days Inn – Calgary Airport: 403.250.3297 Days Inn – Edmonton South: 780.430.0011 Days Inn – Medicine Hat: 403.580.3297 Days Inn – Red Deer: 403.340.3297 Days Inn – Regina: 306.522.3297 Days Inn – Regina Airport West: 306.584.3297 Motel 6 – Medicine Hat: 403.527.1749 Motel 6 – Red Deer: 403.340.1749 HomeSuites – Regina: 306.522.4434 Home Inn & Suites – Swift Current: 306.778.7788 Home Inn & Suites – Yorkton: 306.782-7829

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BEST

Quality Drywall at GuaranteeD Prices

By Shawna Common Photos Cal Fehr

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ean Kelso established Kelturn Drywall Ltd. in 2003 when he recognized a need for quality drywall service. Drywalling since 1981, Dean is committed to exceptional customer service, and he offers a one year warranty on materials and labour.

“If you’re not happy, you don’t pay,” says Dean.

“It is vital that drywall is installed properly for your walls to look right,” explains Dean. “Drywall that is poorly done shows the tape, separations between pieces, and it’s just a horrible mess.

We have six journeyman tapers and five journeymen borders to ensure your drywall is done properly. We will go that extra mile to make sure our customers are completely satisfied.”

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Kelturn Drywall is in the process of training new partners to become owners.

This will be a huge transformation, but the home builders already know these fine young men. It will be a very easy transition so the home builders Kelturn works for will have a fantastic new partnership.

Kelturn Drywall is a professional licensed and insured business, with employee uniforms, company vehicles and an approachable bonded staff. “We are very reliable,” explains Dean, “We always show up for our appointments, we answer the phone when customers call, and we ensure our customers get service no matter what. I’ve been told many times that we were the only company that showed up to provide an estimate for a

customer. Nor do we surprise customers with hidden costs. What they are quoted is what they pay, and we will do whatever it takes to get the job done right.”

Kelturn Drywall protects their customers’ homes from the dust that comes with a drywall installation. They block off the rest of the house, including any venting to ensure the customer doesn’t have to clean dust through the entire house.

Suppliers also turn to Kelturn Drywall for product testing and improvements, and they use their recommendations for innovation in the industry. “We are known for our quality work, so suppliers value our input on product improvements,” says Dean.

LEFT New partners in the company that will service our home builders into the future. ABOVE Future prospects of Kelturn are as valuable as any other employee of Kelturn; they all have a chance at furthering their position in our company.

“Our project was experiencing delay after delay. We were two months past our expected completion date when Kelturn Drywall does quality work year-round, and recommends that customers do home renovations in the winter. “The winter season is a little slower for contractors, so customers are able to get the job done faster,” explains Dean.

“They may also be eligible for a lower rate as a result of the industry’s seasonal slowdown.”

Contact Kelturn Drywall to book your free estimate at (306) 539-2121. Visit their interactive website at www.kelturndrywall.com for more information.

Dean and his team came in to assess our situation. They completed the drywall in our building in less than half the time they were allowed. Dean and his staff are very helpful and professional to deal with. I strongly recommend Kelturn Drywall.”

Daryl Kulcsar, DRIVEN Automotive, Repair & Detailing Center Ltd.

“These guys are wonderful people and hard workers.

They’re honest and very respectful. Their quality of work is unparalleled, and they will go out of their way for us and

Kelturn Drywall Ltd. 1344 Cornwall St (306) 539-2121 www.kelturndrywall.com

our clients. This crew works evenings and weekends to complete jobs on time without compromising quality.”

Katrina Stettner and Matt Rogina, Harmony Builders BEST FineLifestyles

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Insulators wIth a DIfference

BY SHAWNA COMMON

A

aron Langlois has been sprayin insulating for years, and he also wanted to offer quality attic insulation to his customers. Pro Guard Services began in April 2011, and is locally owned and operated by Aaron and Tamara Langlois. It is bonded and insured, and provides quality blow-in insulation for residential and farm attics, as well as industrial, commercial and

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farm fire-proofing all over Saskatchewan.

Pro Guard Services provides free consultations, and is available evenings and weekends at no extra charge. Pro Guard will coordinate with the client to ensure all-in-one service, and do complete site clean up after the work has been completed. Pro Guard provides quality products and service at very affordable prices. They are committed

to exceptional customer service and open availability, and they go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction.

Pro Guard Services cares about its customers, and does a complete investigation to determine the best option prior to installing any insulation.

Technicians ensure your home has the proper attic ventilation, and that the existing attic insulation is dry and

mold-free. Wet or moldy existing insulation is removed prior to installing any insulation. Pro Guard will also install proper venting to your attic to keep new insulation dry and free of any mold or mildew. “We won’t just blow insulation into an attic without doing a full investigation.

We care about our customers and their homes, and want to make sure the job is done right.

That’s also why we do a complete clean up after we’re done. We don’t want to leave a mess for the home owner to deal with after we’ve left,” explains Aaron.

Pro Guard will also provide top-up insulation so homes meet or exceed current energy standards. During all insulation installation, Pro Guard completes depth checks during and after installation to ensure the correct amount has been installed in your home. Pro Guard also provides written verification that the proper insulation volume has been installed in their home.

Pro Guard uses high quality Owen’s Corning PROPINK blow-in insulation for attics, made in Canada from recycled materials. Pro Guard also uses Grace material for commercial and industrial fireproofing; their technicians receive specialized training from Grace Material representatives to ensure the highest quality installation. Pro Guard can install a thermal barrier over spray foam insulation, which looks like hardened cement. They can also install cementicious fibre fireproofing materials to give steel structures a fire rating, as well as to fire proof these structures. They conduct testing during and after installation to ensure proper density, thickness and adhesion of the fireproofing product.

To contact Pro Guard for more information or to book your free estimate for residential, industrial, commercial or farm, call (306) 502-1034. Visit their website at www.proguardservices.ca for more information. FLR

Proguard Services Inc. Grand Coulee, Sk (306) 502-1034 cell: (306)591-0325 tamara@proguardservices.ca www.progruardservices.ca

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Wheatland Roofing inc.

Not Just shiNgles

BY SHAWNA COMMON

“The Wheatland Roofing crew did an amazing job. They got everything done in one day, with minimal inconvenience to our neighbours. We were particularly impressed with the cleanup. Wheatland Roofing does what they say, and say what they do.”

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heatland Roofing Inc. has provided affordable quality products and professional service to Regina area customers since 1995. Eighteen years ago, owners Alison and Mike Smith recognized the need for a roofing company that offered quality roofing systems and customer service to Regina area consumers. They needed a new roof, and were frustrated with the market options. They realized consumers needed a company that offered exceptional customer service, as well as affordable quality products.

Wheatland Roofing doesn’t just apply shingles. It is a company that provides roofing systems, and educates its customers so they can make informed decisions. They use only high quality products. Alison and Mike Smith believe it’s important for their

customers to understand the entire roofing process, so customers can make decisions that best fit their needs. Wheatland Roofing provides year round service, and has a variety of affordable options of high quality products, such as cedar, composite and fibreglass.

Wheatland Roofing is proud of its team.

Wheatland Roofing does not subcontract, so they maintain complete control over quality and service. They’re passionate about their roofing systems and so is their team. Training and safety are priorities, so team members provide safe and consistent service to their customers.

When Wheatland Roofing comes to your home, you can expect professional service.

Their team members will ensure your roofing system is installed properly. Any concerns will be addressed immediately,

Top right: The Estimates Team - Derek Rutten, Rod Hunter and Chris Prohar Centre: Alison and Mike Smith

because customer service is Wheatland Roofing’s top priority.

Wheatland Roofing will ensure your roofing experience is enhanced by a full cleanup following your installation.

Customers have returned home to discover the only evidence that Wheatland Roofing was on their property was a sign on the lawn and a new roofing system.

Wheatland Roofing provides their customers with a detailed and very specific written labour warranty.

Customers are provided with a complete description of labour coverage that comes with the purchase of Wheatland’s affordable quality products.

Alison and Mike are pleased to offer a range of affordable, quality products and services to Regina and area. They are proud members of the Better Business Bureau. Their team is available year round for all your roofing needs.

Visit their offices at 34 395 Park Street in Regina, or call 306-924-4277. Check out their website at wheatlandroofing.com.

FLR

34-395 Park Street Regina, 306.924.4277 www.wheatlandroofing.com

“Wheatland Roofing gave us proficient and excellent customer service. All aspects were explained fully, and the workmanship was excellent. Cleanup was carried out perfectly. Members of the team worked well, they were courteous, and always took the time to answer any questions. We were totally satisfied in every way. Office staff was polite and efficient, and kept us informed of the work schedule.

We are proud to have our home as an example of the fine work done by Wheatland Roofing. Thank you for being the best!”

Lyall and Eileen Moore BEST FineLifestyles

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Edna Keep and Myrna Dureau

Edna Keep:

Offering the Best in real estate advice

By SARAH FERGUSON PHOTO CAL FEHR BEST

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you’re never too old to

invest!

If you want to hear how Edna Keep can make your real estate dreams come true, talk to Myrna Dureau.

Myrna is a 70 year old widow who, with Edna’s help, was chosen as Canadian Real Estate Magazine’s Investor of the Year and Inspirational Investor of the Year— unanimously! Her first purchase was in October 2010 and today, she makes $2,500 a month from rental properties.

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or the best advice on real estate investments, or the Saskatchewan real estate market, call Edna Keep.

Saskatchewan’s economy is booming, and one of the best ways to invest your money is in real estate. Edna’s expertise can guide you to make the right investment, so you can reap the rewards.

No matter what venture her clients pursue, Edna is there to help. “I can show them how to make their money and earning potential grow, mentor them, or help them with a joint venture—it’s wide open,” she says.

Edna successfully operated her own business for 15 years as a financial advisor, before branching out into the real estate market. As a skilled investor, and a self-taught expert on real estate investment strategies, Edna is proud to serve as a mentor to anyone interested in learning more. “I feel it’s my mission to pass on what I know to my clients,” she says. “One of

the best ways to generate cash flow is to buy a property.”

Some people think you need a lot of money in order to invest, but Edna has helped many people buy a property without any money – just by reallocating their assets. “Each property can make from $800 to $1,000 per month,” she says. “I can also help people participate in the real estate market by utilizing their registered investments like RSPs, LIRAs, RESPs and TFSAs.” Edna loves to share her passion for real estate investments with her clients. Her greatest pleasure is helping new clients realize their true financial potential.

Discover your financial possibilities.

Call Edna today or visit www.ednakeep.com FLR 3D Real Estate Investments 306.536.6266 3drealestate@sasktel.net www.ednakeep.com

Edna has been Myrna’s trusted advisor for 15 years. “I started in mutual funds, but was tired of the money not doing anything,” she says. Edna asked her client if she would be interested in real estate investments, and Myrna decided to try it.

Myrna bought a rent-to-own property in Regina, and a young family rented it from her with the goal of getting their own mortgage within a year. “They were a young Vietnamese couple,” she says. “The deal was conducted through an interpreter because they did not speak English.”

The deal paid off for both parties. The family bought the house in 10 months instead of 12.

“I got a great return on my investment, and they realized their dream of owning their own home,” Myrna says.

Myrna now owns several properties: two rent-to-own properties, one long term rental and another joint venture long term rental.

“Edna knows it all,” says Myrna. “She finds the properties and the tenants, and gives you the full financial analysis. You only buy if you’re comfortable.”

“I knew nothing when I started real estate, but with proper expertise, anyone can benefit,” she says.

“You’re never too old to try it!”

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MORE THAN SERVICE WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE AmeriSpec of Regina provides home inspections, energy evaluations, and thermal imaging to homeowners across Southern Saskatchewan

W

ith over 20 years of home inspection experience, AmeriSpec of Regina provides quality inspection services to homeowners in the community. Our certified home inspectors and energy evaluators have the background, experience and know-how to provide you with the very best service.

such as energy assessments and thermal imaging. AmeriSpec’s Qualify for up to $5,000 in grants highly trained energy evaluators will inspect the your major areas of more energy-efficient. and make home energy use in your home, and make suggestions on what steps you can With take Saskatchewan to reduce your EnerGuide for Houses, you can make a positive change for your home and our future. environmental impact and save on energy bills. Our thermographic The Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses inspections also help ensure to October program runs from April 1 , 2011 31 , 2013, and helps homeowners lower their that the thermal envelope on energy bills and costs as well as their impact Call us today to find out more onyour the environment. trained and home Our is highly properly sealed, about our services at (306) 565-1703 certified energy evaluators can help you qualify which can also or visit us online at for provincial grants andsignificantly cut down on yourlower energy use and costs.

The Governmentand of Saskatchewan www.amerispec.ca/regina energy consumption costs. st

st

When you book an AmeriSpec home inspection, you’ll receive a visual evaluation of over 400 components in and around the home. The inspection findings are packaged in the easy-toreference AmeriSpec Report™, which features a detailed evaluation of the home, a Seasonal Maintenance Checklist, and access to exclusive offers from our valued partners. We also provide specialty services BEST

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will even cover half the cost of your pre- and post-retrofit energy evaluations, and we will take care of all the paperwork you.

When you choosefor AmeriSpec

of Regina for your inspection needs, you’ll receive invaluable information on your home’s true condition, and you’ll find peace of mind knowing your home has been thoroughly and professionally inspected. FLR

AmeriSpec 1205 14th Ave East Regina (306) 565-1703

AmeriSpec of Regina is locally owned and operated

Qualify for up to $5,000 in grants and make your home more energy-efficient.

With Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses, you can make a positive change for your home and our future.

The Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses program runs from April 1st, 2011 to October 31st, 2013, and helps homeowners lower their energy bills and costs as well as their impact on the environment. Our highly trained and certified energy evaluators can help you qualify for provincial grants and cut down on your energy use and costs. The Government of Saskatchewan will even cover half the cost of your pre- and post-retrofit energy evaluations, and we will take care of all the paperwork for you.

Call us today to find out more about our services at (306) 565-1703 or visit us online at www.amerispec.ca/regina

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Build Smarter, live Better

By Shawna Common PHOTOS Shawn fulton

S

pring Green Homes is a custom Home Builder based out of Regina.

The company is fairly new to the market, and while the name may not be familiar, its founders have been involved in Regina’s construction industry for many years.

The company is committed to working closely with their customers to provide new home owners with beautiful, environmentally friendly homes that are constructed using the most modern and efficient methods and materials available.

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A Spring Green Home is a quality home built to meet the needs of our customers and stand the test of time in Saskatchewan; a province with a climate that is as unique as the people who live here.

Whether you choose to build from their line of stock plans or something completely unique, your home will be built using industry leading construction standards and superior craftsmanship. A combination of careful placement of piles, use of insulated concrete forms (ICF) and

proper backfilling practices ensures that foundations are strong, waterproof and resistant to movement in our Regina soil.

Exterior walls are made from Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) that are manufactured in a quality controlled facility, resulting in a home with stronger, better insulated walls that reduce heating and cooling bills. Site waste and construction time are also vastly reduced.

Comprehensive information on their construction practices and the materials they use can be found on their website,

www.springgreenhomes.ca.

In collaboration with Robinson Residential Design Inc., Spring Green Homes has created a line of Frank Lloyd Wright inspired home plans in the distinctive prairie style. These homes are designed to make you feel comfortable with a natural flow, and just the right size layouts.

Windows are placed in aesthetically pleasing locations such as on corners of rooms to maximize views and light.

Wood trim milled from reclaimed

Saskatchewan buildings is installed in a modern application. The results are stunning! Spring Green Homes believes that the outside is as important as the inside, and they have incorporated such standard features as attractive low slope rooflines, three foot overhanging eaves, James Hardie siding, and covered front porches that welcome you home at the end of the day.

Spring Green Homes are proud members of the Regina and Region Home Builders’ Association, Progressive New Home

Warranty program, and they are Energy Star certified. Please visit their show home located at 4157 E Green Willow Terrace or call Michelle at (306) 5369868 for further information. FLR

Spring Green Homes 4157 E Green Willow Terrace (306) 536-9868 www.springgreenhomes.ca BEST FineLifestyles

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RESALE BEST

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NEW HOMES

CUSTOM

CONDOS

MORE MORE

THAN JUST A JUST A REAL THAN ESTATE AGENT REAL ESTATE AGENT

Danielle Janine Danielle WILSON Janine WILSON WILSON WILSON

MLS® REALTOR® and Mortgage Broker MLS® REALTOR® Broker # 315890 100-533 Victoria Ave. MLS® REALTOR® and Mortgage Broker MLS® REALTOR® 306.536.0027 306.537.3200 Broker # 315890 100-533 Victoria Ave. www.daniellewilson.ca www.janinewilson.ca

MORTGAGES MORTGAGES

306.536.0027

www.daniellewilson.ca

306.537.3200

www.janinewilson.ca

BEST of the

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CREATING Creating FREE Free TIME time FOR For BUSY Busy PEOPLE PeoPle BY

BY SHAWNA SHAWNA COMMON COMMON PHOTO PHOTO SHAWN SHAWN FULTON FULTON

T

welve welveyears yearsago, ago,Sharla SharlaShaw Shawdecided decided that that she she wanted wanted aa break break from from her her career career in in the the legal legal profession. profession. She She thought thought about about what what she she loved loved to to do, do, and and one one answer answer came came to to mind mind -- she she loved loved to to clean. clean. Tidy Tidy Time Time Saver Saver came came into into being being in in 2000 2000 and and is is still still going going strong. strong.

Sharla Shaw

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Sharla Sharla wanted wanted her her cleaning cleaning company company to to focus focus on on people. people. She She hired hired employees employees who who cared cared about about customer customer service, service, are are passionate passionate about about cleaning, cleaning, and and are are all all bonded bonded and and insured. insured. Only Only reliable reliable and and trustworthy trustworthy people people make make the the cut cut because because

they they represent represent the the company company and and what what itit stands stands for for –– valuing valuing the the customer customer and and delivering delivering aa 100 100 per per cent cent satisfaction satisfaction guarantee guarantee on on all all service. service. Sharla Sharla values values her employees, and they all her employees, and they all go go through through an an intensive intensive training training program. program. The The low low employee employee turnover turnover rate, rate, which which contributes contributes to to the the company’s company’s overall overall reliability, reliability, displays displays how how her her employees employees also also value value their their employer. employer.

Tidy Tidy Time Time Saver Saver is is committed committed to to the the community, and is a proud partner community, and is a proud partner of of Cleaning Cleaning for for aa Reason.

Reason. The The company company

The team at Tidy Time Saver Theteam teamat atTidy TidyTime TimeSaver Saver The

donates cleaning services to people donates cleaning cleaning services services to to people people donates undergoing cancer treatments to help undergoingcancer cancertreatments treatmentsto tohelp help undergoing those who are experiencing difficult thosewho whoare areexperiencing experiencingaaadifficult difficult those time in their life.

Tidy Time Saver also timein intheir theirlife. life.Tidy TidyTime TimeSaver Saveralso also time cares about the environment, and cares about about the the environment, environment, and and cares displays this by using environmentally displaysthis thisby byusing usingenvironmentally environmentally displays friendly products. friendlyproducts. products. friendly Tidy Time Saver offers wide range Tidy Time Time Saver Saver offers offers aaa wide wide range range Tidy of services and competitive pricing. of services and competitive pricing. of services and competitive pricing.

Customers save hundreds of hours Customerssave savehundreds hundredsof ofhours hoursaaa Customers year in cleaning because Tidy Time year in in cleaning cleaning because because Tidy Tidy Time Time year Saver does for them.

Families who Saverdoes doesitititfor forthem. them.Families Familieswho who Saver use the company’s services have use the the company’s company’s services services have have use more free time.

People are busy, more free free time. time. People People are are busy, busy, more working more hours, and have more working more more hours, hours, and and have have more more working recreational commitments than the recreational commitments commitments than than the the recreational previous generation.

Tidy Time Saver previousgeneration. generation.Tidy TidyTime TimeSaver Saver previous understands this dilemma, and they understands this this dilemma, dilemma, and and they they understands want to assist with the chores that want to to assist assist with with the the chores chores that that want families are struggling to complete. families are struggling to complete. families are struggling to complete.

“We are called marriage savers,” “We are are called called marriage marriage savers,” savers,” “We laughs Sharla.

“People are frustrated laughs Sharla.

Sharla. “People “People are are frustrated frustrated laughs with their lack of free time, but also with their their lack lack of of free free time, time, but but also also with want to have home they can be proud wantto tohave haveaaahome homethey theycan canbe beproud proud want

to show visitors.

We offer excellent to show show visitors. visitors. We We offer offer excellent excellent to service for families on the go.” service for families on the go.” service for families on the go.”

Tidy Time Saver will provide Tidy Tidy Time Time Saver Saver will will provide provide aaa free estimate for your home.

Visit free estimate for your home. free estimate for your home. Visit Visit www.tidytimesaver.com for for more more www.tidytimesaver.com www.tidytimesaver.com for more information. To To book an an estimate, call call information. information. Tobook book anestimate, estimate, call 306-546-1505.

FLR 306-546-1505. FLR 306-546-1505. FLR

TIDY TIME TIME SAVER SAVER TIDY proudpartner partnerof of isisaaproud

engaged the services of Tidy Time “Iengaged engagedthe theservices servicesof ofTidy TidyTime Time “I“I Saver several years ago, and I’ve never Saverseveral severalyears yearsago, ago,and andI’ve I’venever never Saver looked back.

Sharla and her team lookedback. back.Sharla Sharlaand andher herteam team looked are professional, courteous, kind and areprofessional, professional,courteous, courteous,kind kindand and are caring, and trust them implicitly caring,and andIIItrust trustthem themimplicitly implicitly caring, with our home.

They descend on withour ourhome. home.They Theydescend descendon on with your house as team, leaving in yourhouse houseas asaaateam, team,leaving leavingitititin inaaa your condition that will have your friends conditionthat thatwill willhave haveyour yourfriends friends condition wondering you’ve morphed into wonderingifififyou’ve you’vemorphed morphedinto into wondering Martha Stewart.

With all the guests MarthaStewart.

Stewart.With Withall allthe theguests guests Martha we entertain throughout the year, it’s weentertain entertainthroughout throughoutthe theyear, year,it’s it’s we comforting to know that our home is comfortingto toknow knowthat thatour ourhome homeis is comforting always presentable, giving us more alwayspresentable, presentable,giving givingus usmore more always time to focus on important things, like timeto tofocus focuson onimportant importantthings, things,like like time

Tidy Time Saver TidyTime TimeSaver Saver Tidy 306-546.1505 306-546.1505 306-546.1505 sharlashaw@tidytimesaver.com sharlashaw@tidytimesaver.com sharlashaw@tidytimesaver.com www.tidytimesaver.com www.tidytimesaver.com www.tidytimesaver.com

spending time with our children and spendingtime timewith withour ourchildren childrenand and spending hanging out with friends.” hangingout outwith withfriends.” friends.” hanging Janita M. JanitaM. M. Janita BEST FineLifestyles

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Live Life the Way you aLWays have, onLy Better

BY SHAWNA COMMON PHOTOS SHAWN FULTON

BEST

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resident amenities and services At Chartwell Select Renaissance Retirement Residence, it is our priority to make your lifestyle as comfortable and worry-free as possible. Whether you enjoy quiet time in the fireside lounge, or relax on our beautiful patio, our numerous amenities are available to enhance your enjoyment, while ensuring your safety and convenience.

• Studios, one bedrooms, one bedroom and den, two bedrooms, two bedrooms with full kitchen • Fire alarm systems/smoke detectors/sprinkler system/ emergency lighting • Pre-wired for phone and cable • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower • Kitchenettes • Attractive garden patio • Covered resident parking available • 24 hour emergency response staff • Weekly housekeeping • Air conditioning in common areas and suites • Complimentary resident laundry facilities • Arrangement of transportation to and from doctor/lab appointments and shopping • Environmentally efficient geothermal and solar heating • Planned outings to a wide range of destinations from the Moose Jaw Casino and Spa to Lumsden Valley, Qu’Appelle Valley, restaurants, and parks • Regular entertainment events • • • • • •

Full service dining room Private dining room Multi-purpose room Daily exercise program Activity room Hair salon

• • • • • •

Games room Library and computer room Country kitchen Theatre/chapel Private spa rooms Storage lockers available

Chartwell Select Renaissance Retirement Residence 1801 McIntyre Street, Regina, SK (306) 525-8686 www.chartwellreit.ca BEST of the

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ExcEllEncE in countErs

By Shawna Common PHOTOS Shawn FULTon

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W

hen CNG Stone started selling concrete counter tops in 2007, they didn’t like the way the concrete performed, so they improved their service by supplying granite counters to their Regina and southern Saskatchewan customers. The company is locally owned and operated with a skilled and experienced staff. Their special process for granite countertops allows them to offer a 15 year guarantee: a special sealing process that protects against staining for many years, and repair or replacement of any of their granite that becomes stained within the 15 year time period.

CNG Stone has a unique method with their seams that makes them virtually invisible, unlike industry standard seams that are easily seen and felt. Their showroom features both industry standard seams and those produced by CNG Stone.

The company receives the raw stone slabs from their supplier, and fabricates them in their Regina shop. They encourage clients to visit their showroom to see the 200 samples on display, and to watch their fabricators at work. The fabrication shop is open to visitors who are curious about how CNG Stone does their work. They carry granite in more than 800 colours, and also sell marble, quartz and many other products. In addition to fabricating and installing counter tops, they also make and install fireplace surrounds.

CNG Stone is committed to remarkable customer service. “Our customers are our sales force,” explains Scott Tresek, owner. “We bend over backwards for our customers, and it shows by our referrals.

We are committed to exceptional customer service, quality product and superior workmanship.”

“We believe in educating our customers, so they are able to make informed decisions. We don’t just want to push our product on people, we want them to be happy with their purchase for the long-term.`` Tresek recommends that customers do their homework as well. CNG Stone stands behind their product and workmanship, and he wants his customers to appreciate their excellence. Granite counter tops installed by CNG Stone require very little maintenance because of the unique seal applied. Once the counter top is sealed, it is sealed forever, allowing the company to confidently offer their 15 year guarantee on staining.

CNG Stone is located at 1445 Scarth Street in Regina’s old warehouse district, and is open seven days a week to better serve their customers.

Visit their website at www.cngstone.com for a complete list of products and colours. You may also call them at (306) 585-9876 for more information. FLR

CNG Stone 1445 Scarth St. Regina, Sk. (306) 585.9876 | fax 306.585.9830 sales@cngstone.com www.cngstone.com BEST of the

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What CNG Stone clients are saying CNG Stone was excellent to work with, and very quick with our project. It was less than a week from the time they took the templates to the install dates, which nobody else could match. They even asked us if there was a piece of slab that we really liked, so they could work with the template layout to feature these areas. I would highly recommend them to other people who are looking for granite counter tops.

Philip and Pam Korczak

I had a specific look in mind, but I wasn’t sure how to achieve it.

I told them what I wanted to do, and they did the research, sourced the stone, and brought it in for me to look at. The installation was easy, on time, and they followed up with me afterward to make sure that we were completely happy. They went above and beyond to make sure that everything was right.

Christie Reid and Curtis Trann

CNG Stone installed new granite counter tops in my kitchen. I was really happy with the work that the three men did when they installed the counter tops, and pleased with the quality and look of the finished product. They were really easy to deal with, and even picked up supplies from another one of our contractors when I was out of town. They were also able to coordinate with the plumber, so that my sink and taps could be installed at the same time. I was referred to CNG Stone by a neighbour, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone else.

Linda Thomson

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CNG Stone installed granite in our bathroom, laundry room and kitchen. Their approach to customer service, and their willingness to bring in the right product, really appealed to us. Their prices were competitive, but it was their customer service that really set them apart from their competition.

Ryan and Jennifer Schindelka

YEAR-ROUND HOT TUB ENJOYMENT

BY SARAH FERGUSON PHOTOS CALVIN FEHR AND SHAWN FULTON

BEST of the

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magine coming home after a hard day to a soothing, relaxing soak in your own hot tub. As you slip in, your worries and cares evaporate, and you are transported to a warm, stress-free environment where anxiety is washed away. With 18 years of experience, the professionals at Sunset Bay Leisure can bring your dream to life, and make it last for years to come.

Quality, selection and service are our trademarks For the highest quality hot tubs and the largest selection in Regina, come to Sunset Bay. They carry four major lines of spas, and offer something for everyone’s budget in a friendly, no pressure sales environment. While famous for their Arctic Spas, Sunset Bay now offers a selection of hot tubs from Clearwater Spas, Divine Spas and Coyote Spas.

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provides more options to choose from, and they encourage you to wet test them right in the store.

Sunset Bay is proud to have never changed names, remaining loyal to Arctic Spa customers since being established in 1994. Part of the community for years, they are committed to offering the finest service possible. They always service what they sell, and are even happy to service what they don’t sell.

Sunset Bay is happy to help, even if you buy a hot tub in a parking lot or from a travelling expo, and the toll-free service line is now disconnected. As Regina’s hot tub experts, they carry the largest selection of chemicals, filters and parts for almost every brand of spas on the market. Sunset Bay also carries a variety of options for your hot tub, including salt water and more natural maintenance systems. They offer a fine selection of patio furniture, as well as swim spas, saunas, steam showers, gazebos, smoker

barbeques, chemical, accessories and a full service department. What a one stop leisure shop!

Sunset Bay is famous for quality customer service, a large selection of products and an incredible variety of options to choose from. They have many loyal longtime repeat customers who put one hot tub at home and another at a second location, like the cottage. Buying and owning a hot tub is a hassle-free, pleasurable experience at Sunset Bay. Immerse yourself in everything their spas have to offer, and they will ensure you are 100 per cent satisfied.

Hot tub advantages Owning a hot tub can enhance your life and promote well-being. Whether you want to liven up a party or rid yourself of the stresses of the day, a hot tub from Sunset Bay Leisure can make your life easier—and better.

Hot tubs offer many rewarding benefits. Bond with your family, spend relaxing downtime soaking with your spouse or companion, or entertain or celebrate with friends. Sunset Bay spas can be used year-round to enjoy nature and the benefits of relaxing in your own backyard.

Health benefits Studies show the many benefits of relaxing in warm water. Many people spend the entire day on their feet, and suffer from the effects of uncomfortable shoes, chairs, or even gravity. Relaxing in a hot tub is a wonderful way to de-stress and remove all of the day’s pressures from your body. Warm water also leads the body to release endorphins, and enhances pain relief. A daily soak means you can approach day-to-day living more relaxed, and studies prove you will sleep better.

Medical concerns like muscle injuries can be eased with the help of hydrotherapy. If you are suffering from arthritis, MS, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, tendonitis and bursitis, spa time eases the pain and tightness that accompany these conditions...and Sunset Bay hot tub owners have never been happier!

“This is my third Arctic Spa from Sunset Bay! We moved our 1998 to our cottage and got a new one.

Then we sold our house and the buyer wanted to keep the spa so we needed another one for our new house. It’s a great selling feature.”

“I suffer from MS and my physician recommended hydrotherapy. The warm water helps me tremendously and the jets in the Arctic Spa are heaven! My hot tub was the best gift I have ever given myself.”

“I swear by our Arctic Spa. I have a bad back from years of manual labour. My chiropractor recommended a spa and I did my research and decided on our Arctic Spa. My wife and I use it every night. We just love it.”

Come into Sunset Bay Leisure today and experience what our spas can do for you. FLR

Sunset Bay Leisure 1333 Albert Street Regina, Sk. 306.525.0546 1.800.597.7727 www.sunsetbayleisure.com (l-r) Tory, Alison, Brittney and Barclay Missing: Mike, Dudley, Graeme and Ryan

Models appear courtesy of Skylight Models Inc.

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Universal PlUmbing & Heating

BY Amy NelsoN-mile PHOTOS sHAWN FUlToN

t

here’s an exciting new business in town providing premium plumbing and heating services.

Jason Lipiec and Colin Beaton, coowners of Universal Plumbing and Heating, have been in business for over a year now and have been steadily expanding.

The company handles a wide variety of customer needs. “We work with plumbing, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, fireplaces and tankless water heaters, just to name a few,”

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Beaton explains. “We specialize in residential work, and do a fair amount of commercial work as well.”

The team at Universal is highly qualified for the work they do. “I’m a journeyman plumber and a licensed gas fitter with many years’ experience,” says Lipiec.

“While Colin’s field of experience is in heating and air conditioning, he also handles the financial side of the business. We have two other journeyman plumbers, Landon and Riley, working for us. Rounding out the

team are Scott and Kyle, the company’s two apprentices.

“Our staff are instructed properly and monitored carefully,” says Beaton. “No apprentice works without a journeyman.

In addition, one of the owners is on site daily to oversee things so there is a very high level of quality control.”

Customers can trust the work that Universal does not just because they have high quality staff, but also because they use only industry leaders for their

supplies. They are a licensed dealer of York furnaces and air conditioners, as well Continental and Montigo fireplaces. They carry all brands of plumbing fixtures.

Universal is recognized in the local professional community as a trusted, professional company. They are a member of the Better Business Bureau, and they also have good rapport with the gas and plumbing inspectors.

Creating such a reputation was easy for Universal simply because they maintain high standards for every step of the process. To begin with, they believe in ongoing professional development to keep up with the constant changes in technology in the industry. “We are committed to investing in our own

and our employees’ education,” says Beaton. “Knowledge of the industry is crucial, and with today’s technology, the knowledge you had last year simply isn’t good enough. So we all attend workshops and seminars regularly.”

Next, they ensure clear communication with their customers. “You’ll get an honest, fair quote from us,” promises Lipiec. “It will be detailed so that there will be no surprises along the way. We make sure you know if there might be difficulties that might add on to the cost, such as dealing with an old sewer pipe. Along with the quote you will receive references, and we’ll answer all your questions.”

Lipiec stresses that the communication is ongoing. “We keep you informed

about our progress. If we say that we’ll be there, we’ll be there, and in the rare cases we’re delayed, we’ll call.”

What is the bottom line with Universal Plumbing and Heating? “You’ll not only be satisfied with our work, you’ll be impressed,” says Beaton.

To reach Universal Plumbing & Heating, call Jason Lipiec and Colin Beaton at 306-535-0016, E-mail at info@ universalplumbingandheating.com, or check out their website at www. universalplumbingandheating.com.FLR

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Putting Your Home First

By Tobie HainsTock

Y

ou’ve heard it said many times, “Your home is your greatest investment.”

Whether purchasing an existing house or building new, you want someone at your side that you can trust.

Marc Poissant of MLP Building Inspections & Construction Consulting is a talented and well educated drafter and home inspector with a broad range of work experience and outstanding achievements.

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PHOTO cal FeHR

His educational journey started at SIAST Palliser in Moose Jaw in 2002, where he completed the Architectural and Building Science Technologist program. He was gold medalist in the Skills Canada competition, the first in the program to win this standing.

Poissant went to Calgary, where he first went into structural drafting, then residential estimating, and later, contractual drafting and custom home

design. The economic down turn led Poissant to reevaluate his career, leave home building, and enter the insurance industry. While working as a construction appraiser, Poissant returned to Regina in December 2009.

Today, Poissant’s business focuses on two primary aspects of his skill and education: home inspection and drafting.

Home Inspection Poissant makes no apologies about being a thorough inspector; it’s a characteristic he picked up in his days of being an insurance inspector. “I like to walk through a house at least three times,” he says. The first time, he familiarizes himself with the house. The second visit is a detailed walk through the property, inspecting and making notes. The last walkthrough confirms his notes, and he takes photos as needed.

“To ensure nothing gets missed,” explains Poissant, “I believe that the more times you walk through, the less chance that something will be overlooked.” He welcomes and encourages clients to walk through with him while doing the inspection, and is happy to sit down and explain the findings.

Drafting Poissant is able to draft plans from scratch or put together ideas from pre-existing floor plans, or houses that you’ve seen. Have you got an idea and aren’t sure if it will work? Poissant will explain the design-drafting process to you, and offers his professional opinion on options that will work best in your new house. Poissant will work with you to customize your house and make it comfortable, functional and suited to your lifestyle.

He will also help you with that home renovation project you’ve been waiting to do.

Poissant’s experience working on a construction site gives him a better understanding of what happens when plans become reality. Working closely with tradespeople helps a drafter become familiar with the whole process, and to better understand what is possible and cost effective when building.

With Saskatchewan moving forward at such a fast rate, Poissant explains that, as an investment, your home is one of your greatest assets. “The better quality house you build, the longer it will last, and therefore create a greater return on your investment,” he says.

“Whether inspecting or drafting, the time and care that you put into it plays out in how your investment will work for you in the long term,” concludes Poissant. .FLR

MLP Building Inspections & Construction Consulting MLP Design & Development (306) 201-5556 mpoissant@mlpinspections.com www.mlpdesigndev.com

marc Poissant of mLP Building inspections & Construction Consulting

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Budget Blinds educates in safety

By Mackenzie Brooks PHOTOS caL FeHr

F

or all families, our loved ones come first. The team at Budget Blinds sees themselves as a family of friends, and through interaction and working closely together, also sees their customers as part of the extended Budget Blinds` family. When the sales team at Budget Blinds was put in touch with a Saskatchewan family who recently lost their young child to an errant blind cord, they gained another Budget Blind family member. They also found an opportunity to educate themselves on how to best equip customers for window covering safety in the home.

safety education, Budget Blinds has made it their new mission to reach out to clients, both old and new, to educate them about blind safety. “We want our own families to be safe,” says Leanne.

“It just followed that we would pass this information along to our clients as well. It was something that touched us deeply, and we wanted to make sure that we educated as many people as we could to help avoid this same issue,” she adds. “The most common reaction we’ve had from our clients is that they were grateful that we brought it up, and that it’s something they didn’t often think about.”

It’s true: blind cord safety is a topic we do not often think of until there is a reason. “Until we met this family, and as we got to know them better by working with them to make their home safe, we all believed that this kind of story is something that never actually happens,” says Budget Blinds owner, Leanne Fisher. “As parents we’ve all heard the stories, and this family had too, pulling the blind cords up over the safety cord cleat. It’s something you never think you’ll experience, and because it’s such a profound loss, we felt that we had to better educate ourselves about the hazards that blind cords pose,” she continues. “We knew we had to offer safety solutions to our clients. It’s just too important.”

To ensure their clients’ safety, Budget Blinds is offering retrofit kits to make older blinds safe, and bring them up to current international standards.

“It’s important to make these options available to our clients. It’s not about selling anymore; now it’s all about doing the right thing for others,” says Leanne.

Retrofit kits are available at no cost by going to the Springs Window Fashions website, and clicking on the child safety link at www.springswindowfashions. com.

Safety standards in window coverings have changed since 1996. If you have modern blinds, or even Roman shades, Budget Blinds wants to help you to make sure your window fashions are as safe as they can be. As a first step in their

If you’re curious about the safety of the window coverings in your home, or you want to explore new window coverings that offer the most up-to-date fashions and safety standards, contact Leanne and the Budget Blinds team at (306) 949-2300 for information, safety consciousness and beautiful window coverings. With Budget Blinds, you can have the best of both. Ask the team how; they want to educate you and your family. FLR

LEFT (L-R) Myla, Lyza, Leanne and Maggie Fisher

Leanne

Natalie

Amanda

Sharon

Tracy

a style for every point of view 534 University Park Drive, Regina, SK Regina: 306.949.2300 Estevan: 306.634.5328 Weyburn: 306.842.5328 e: reginaadmin@yourbudgetblinds.ca www.budgetblinds.com BEST of the

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BELL TIRE:

SERVING REGINA AND AREA FOR OVER 52 YEARS

BY SARAH FERGUSON PHOTOS CALVIN FEHR & SHAWN FULTON

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Front row: Mazzy. Sitting (l-r): Karen, Dot, Bill, Bert, Lisa, Rhonda, Connie. Standing: Adam, Micheal, Greg, Arnie, Cody Back row: Matt, Dustin, Dave,Doug ,Gary. Missing from the picture is Glen.

B

ert Mills is a self-made successful businessman. He began working in the tire business in Brandon, Manitoba before moving back to Regina in the 1960s to open Norman’s Tire. Together, Bert, Dorothy and his brother Frank in Brandon, along with Lorne Dermody, started their business with just a few customers. A few years later, brother Glen Mills joined the business. It became a real family business when daughters Rhonda, Connie and Karen started doing the book work out of their homes and were able to raise their families. Today the girls are in the offices working hands-on with the company. The girls often comment about, “How many daughters are that lucky to get the opportunity to hang out with their dad every day, or maybe not…hahaha.“ We do feel truly blessed to be able to see our dad daily.

Today, Bell Tire remains a local, family-run company that proudly puts the customer first.

Those who walk through Bell Tire’s doors quickly become friends and will always be greeted with a smile and a coffee. The team at Bell Tire goes above and beyond to make sure your needs and expectations are always met.

At Bell Tire, we are known for our commitment to hard work and quality service. Our genuine

passion for our customers, suppliers and staff is evident in everything we do. Aside from the company’s devotion to family values, the three generations working at Bell Tire today understand the business from the ground up.

Our first priority is making sure you get what you need, when you need it. Tires are what we know best, and we are known city wide for our outstanding customer service. Our loyal customers can always count on our fair, affordable prices. If you need help finding a tire that is difficult to track down, we will go the extra mile to find it for you. No job--or tire-- is too big or too small!

If you’re looking for incredible customer service, affordable pricing and quality tire advice that comes from years of experience in the business, visit Bell Tire today.

Bell Tire. Regina’s tire experts for over half a century.FLR Bell Tire 700 1st Avenue Regina (306) 775-1244 belltire09@yahoo.ca BEST of the

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PROTECTION Protection AND and PROTECTION AND VALUE ValueTHAT that LAST last VALUE THAT LAST C CC

ustom Car Care owner, RobRob Butts, ustom Car Care owner, Butts, built his automotive detailing ustom owner, Robdetailing Butts, builtCar hisCare automotive and cleaning business ondetailing hard built his automotive and cleaning business on hard work work and and delivering top notch service to to cleaning business on hard and delivering top notch service hiswork customers.

He isHethe LINE-X® dealer hisand customers. is the LINE-X® dealer delivering top notch service to in Regina, providing spray application inhis Regina, providing application customers.

He is spray the LINE-X® dealer for truck boxes.

Custom Care is now forintruck boxes.

Custom Car Car Care is now Regina, providing spray application proud to introduce an innovative flooring proud to introduce an innovative flooring for truck boxes. Custom Car Care is now application known asinnovative ASPART-X™. application known as an ASPART-X™. proud to introduce flooring application knownisasthe ASPART-X™.

ASPART-X™ latest innovation ASPART-X™ is the latest innovation from LINE-X® Protective Coatings. from LINE-X® is Protective ASPART-X™ the latest Coatings. innovation ASPART-X™ is a ZERO VOC aliphatic ASPART-X™ is a ZERO VOC aliphatic frompolyurea LINE-X® Protective Coatings. that provides superior UV polyurea that provides superior ASPART-X™ is a ZERO VOC stability with excellent colour aliphatic andUV gloss stability with excellent colour and polyurea that provides superior UV retention. It is a versatile coating gloss solution retention.

It is a versatile coating solution stability with excellent colour and gloss with virtually limitless possibilities: with virtually limitless possibilities: retention.

It is adecks, versatile coating solution residential patios, garage and residential decks, patios, garage andand withbasement virtually limitless possibilities: floors, or commercial basement floors, or patios, commercial and industrial applications.

ASPART-X™ residential decks, garage and providesapplications. unsurpassed performance, industrial ASPART-X™ basement floors, or commercial and creating a tough, durable UV stable provides unsurpassed performance, industrial applications.

ASPART-X™ topcoat in combination other creating a tough, durable performance, UVwith stable provides unsurpassed products in the durable LINE-X® family.

Your topcoat ina combination with other creating tough, UV stable ASPART-X™ application will Your protect products ininthecombination LINE-X® family. topcoat with other ASPART-X™ protect products in application the LINE-X®will family.

Your BESTASPART-X™ application will protect of the BEST

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your come, yourinvestment investment for for years years to to come, regardless ofofyour your investment for years to come, regardless yourneeds. needs. regardless of your needs.

ASPART-X™ ASPART-X™ topcoat topcoat provides provides aa durable, that can can a durable,easy-to-clean easy-to-clean finishprovides ASPART-X™ topcoatfinish beconfigured configured variety of non-skid non-skid bedurable, inin aa variety of easy-to-clean finish that can finishes most flooring and decking finishes forformost and be configured in flooring a variety of decking non-skid applications.

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Custom colours, including solid tan, gray, white, colours, includingassolid gray, white, are available, well tan, as several stock blackand andclear. clear.Colour Colour chips and blend black colours, including solidchips tan, and gray,blend white, options embedded in conjunction with options embedded in conjunction black and clear. Colour chips and with blend ASPART-X™ create an attractive colourful ASPART-X™ create an attractive colourful options embedded in conjunction with surface coating. The clear topcoat is an surface coating.

The clear topcoat is an ASPART-X™ create an attractive colourful excellent sealer that protects against excellent sealer that protects against surface coating.

The clear topcoat is impact, abrasion and chemical damage.an impact, abrasion and chemical damage. excellent sealer that protects against ASPART-X™ colour chips are available ASPART-X™ colour chips are available impact, abrasion and chemical damage. in pebble blue, sandstone, golden road inASPART-X™ pebble blue, sandstone, road colour chips golden are available and tuxedo colours.

ASPART-X™ accent and tuxedo accent colours arecolours. used sandstone, to ASPART-X™ create a granite-like in pebble blue, golden road floortuxedo finish as an to colour colours are used to alternative create a granite-like and colours.

ASPART-X™ accent chips forare a more and less textured floor finish asused andurable alternative colour colours to create a to granite-like finish. and textured chips forfinish aCustom more and less floor asdurable ancolours alternative toblends colour can be specifically to textured meet finish.

Custom colours and blends chips for aordered more durable and less customer specifications. can be ordered specifically to meet finish.

Custom colours and blends customer can be specifications. ordered specifically to meet customer specifications.

coloursand andFinishes Finishes Colours • Durable, scuff resistant coating • • •

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Durable, scuff resistant coating

UV stable, high gloss and colour retention

UV stable, high gloss and colour retention Clear, high gloss sealer for any surface

Clear, high gloss sealer for any surface

Replacement for epoxies and polyurethanes

• • • •

Replacement for epoxies and polyurethanes Optional non-skid finishes available

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Professionally applied

Optional non-skid finishes available Professionally applied

Flooring colours

Flooring ASPART-X™ is colours available in solid tan, gray, white, black and clear.

There is also a wide variety of colour chipwhite, combinations.

Custom ASPART-X™ is available in solid tan, gray, black and clear. colours can be ordered to meet your specifications for a wide range There is also a wide variety of colour chip combinations. Custom of flooring. finishes are also available.

FLR range colours can beOptional ordered non-skid to meet your specifications for a wide of flooring. Optional non-skid finishes are also available. FLR

Custom Car Care LINE-X / ASPART-X 1308 McIntyre St. Regina, Sk. 306.569.2273 www.aspart-x.ca

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Capital aChievement Capital aChievement

Customer and staff loyalty earns Regina dealership Retailer of the Year Award

By Trilby Henderson photos sHawn FulTon.

V

ibrant paintings by Regina artist

Axelson estimates that more than

product knowledge to guide their clients

showroom. The paintings reflect the sense of energy, excitement and optimism that permeates the building and those who work within.

“It’s a testament to the culture we’ve

to work maintaining and repairing customer vehicles.

“We’re very respectful of people. As long as we are respectful and aware of what people need and what they want, then people will continue to come and work for us,” he said.

Keeping on top of technological advancements is vital to any company’s success, and the vehicle industry is no exception. “Cars are very high tech,” said Axelson. “We all have a passion for cars, so I think it’s our responsibility to help people understand the product that we’re representing. We all have a different need, we all have a different budget, and we all have a different appetite for the whistles and bells.”

Jason Robins punctuate walls loyalty half of the 135 individuals currently in making informed purchases, or one Customer and thestaff earns Regina dealership of Capital GMC Buick Cadillac’s employed by Capital GMC have been of the company’s 40 highly skilled expansive Rochedale with the company for at least five years. technicians who put their expertise Retailer of theBoulevarde Year award

By Trilby Henderson. Photos by Shawn Fulton. he said. established,”

Of course, Capital GMC’s staff have a good reason to be happy. General Motors of Canada recently named the Regina dealership it’s “2011 Retailer of the Year” for selling more new and used vehicles than any other GMC dealership in Canada. This marks the third year in a row that Capital GMC has taken home the prestigious award.

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Part of this respect is built on ensuring that all Capital GMC employees have the training, knowledge, and access to technology that they need to do their jobs well, whether they are a member of the sales team who require in-depth

Of course, Capital GMC would not be Canada’s number one GMC dealership if not for its loyal customers. “We’ve got a great, great customer base,” said Axelson, pointing out that most of the dealership’s new business comes to it via customer referrals. Axelson said Capital GMC places a great deal of emphasis on serving its customers with respect, whether they are looking to purchase a new or used vehicle or are simply bringing their current car in for maintenance or a repair. “We truly try to respect peoples’ time and we try to respect their investment,” he said. “We think the process should be very serious when you are negotiating to buy a car or repair a car. It has got to be honourable, fair and up front.”

“It is quite a recognition and quite a feat to be achieved by our staff,” said Bruce Axelson, president of Capital GMC. “But we just have the best staff in the world. We really do.”

“We think people deserve good prices and a good selection,” he continued. In addition to carrying a large selection of new and used vehicles, Capital GMC maintains a wellstocked parts department, which boasts a fill rate of 93 per cent. This means that, nine times out of 10, the dealership will have in stock the part its customer needs, saving the customer time and money.

Capital GMC is committed to not only to its employees and its customers, but to the community it serves. “We’re proud to be from Saskatchewan,” Axelson said. “We’re proud of the province. I doubt that there is a company, or people in a company, that are more loyal or more patriotic to Regina and Saskatchewan than me and my staff.” FLR

Capital GMC, Buick, Cadillac 4020 Rochdale Blvd. Regina Sales: 1 (888) 576-4297 Service: 1 (800) 240-5211 www.capitalgmc.ca BEST of the

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NUMBER 1 FOR A REASON TOP SALESPEOPLE Capital GMC is the number one GM dealership in the country. Two gentleman in our sales department have been a major part of that success by continually reaching their goals, as well as Capital’s.

In his two and a half years with Capital, Dennis Nakonechny has continuously been one of our top producing sales specialists. According to Dennis, “the opportunity at Capital is the best [for selling vehicles].”

The motivation and opportunity to grow and be successful in the car business is here. In October, Dennis, along with his partner, Mona, broke all Capital records by selling an amazing 40 vehicles in one month. This family team, consisting of Dennis, Mona, and now Ryan, have a dynamic system in place to reach their goal every month; each person on the team has their own level of expertise in the car business.

Dennis says that being successful is his motivation for remaining on top in the Sales Department. Dennis isn’t all work and no play; he enjoys camping and fishing when he’s not at Capital, and would like to visit Vegas in the future. Dennis and Mona will be marrying in August.

Dennis

Justin

Another amazing product specialist that is constantly on top is Justin Hoffart. Born in Regina, Justin has a love for sports and camping when he is away from Capital. His favourite vehicle is the Cadillac Escalade, and favourite thing about Capital is the employees. Justin has been another major part of Capital’s success since he started over two and a half years ago. Deciding on a career change and stepping into the product specialist position at Capital, Justin hasn’t looked back. He enjoys “the [customer’s] unique personalities” and finding them the right vehicle for their situation. He sincerely enjoys seeing the happy customers drive away in their new vehicle. Justin continues to successfully reach his goals each month with help from his fiancé, Amy, and teammate, Serey.

TOP SERVICE Capital GMC has a large Service Department with a range of skills including Grand Master Technicians. A part of the service team is the Accessories Department including Keith Giroux, an Accessories Specialist at Capital. He has worked as a sales person for two years before moving to the Accessories Department where he has been since the department was formed three years ago. Keith has a passion for transforming vehicles with accessories and has worked on show cars of his own. He comments about how great it has been to watch the Accessories Department grow from just a small corner office to the large department that is now is; “It’s like watching your kid grow up,” he says. It makes us proud to see final products and hear positive comments. One of Keith’s favourite customizations to do is adding a lift kit to a black on black diesel, “They always turn out well,” he says.

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Capital GMC, Buick, Cadillac 4020 Rochdale Blvd. Regina Sales: 1 (888) 576-4297 Service: 1 (800) 240-5211 www.capitalgmc.ca

Bistro Fine Dining in east regina

BY FLR STAFF PHOTOS SHAWN FULTON

J

ason Carmen has been cooking for 18 years, and has always dreamed of owning his own restaurant that produced fresh and quality cuisine.

Jason, and his wife Tasha, purchased the Mediterranean Bistro in 2010, and are excited to offer Regina a taste of fresh bistro cuisine. All the cuisine is prepared from scratch using fresh ingredients, including fresh, not frozen AAA beef and fish. “Fish and beef loses some of its texture and flavour if it has been frozen. It is vital that ingredients are at the peak of

their freshness and flavour when they are used in our cuisine,� explains Jason.

Mediterranean Bistro only employs journeyperson chefs to work in the restaurant, and all servers are experienced in customer service. Servers are also experienced and trained in wine, and are able to suggest the perfect wine to complement any dish at the restaurant.

Chefs at the restaurant are highly trained and experienced, so they are able to understand the importance of flavour,

texture and aroma. Atmosphere is also an important aspect of fine dining, and the restaurant features an authentic bistro style atmosphere that one would find in France or Italy.

All the staff members at the Mediterranean Bistro are passionate about food, and are excited to pass that passion onto their customers. Servers are able to suggest wines for every dish, from appetizers, entrees to desserts. They are also able to answer any questions BEST FineLifestyles

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customers may have about the menu.

The Mediterranean Bistro believes it is important to build relationships with its customers, and is committed to ensuring customers are completely satisfied with their food and service.

Mediterranean Bistro has a new menu to compliment the signature dishes created by Jason and his chefs. The new menu features the cedar plank salmon, and signature dishes such as beef wellington, fish trio, seafood chowder, sesame crusted ahi tuna served with an in-house prepared Szechuan, as well as many other delights. The menu changes with the seasons to highlight the freshest produce. They source the freshest and finest fish available, fly it in from all over the world to the restaurant, and serve it to diners in sauces and styles chosen to accentuate the flavours and textures of these extraordinary fish.

Mediterranean Bistro uses French and Italian influences with a modern twist to the traditional dishes. The restaurant also prepares all the menu items from scratch, including the delectable cheesecake.

They are committed to sourcing out the best local products, from Saskatchewan beef tenderloin to vegetables from the farmers’ market. The restaurant uses only fresh, quality ingredients prepared and served at the height of their taste, texture and aroma to ensure the best possible dining experience.

The Mediterranean Bistro has a new open concept patio for diners that want the true European bistro experience.

The Mediterranean Bistro servers don’t just serve food; they build relationships with the customers with fine cuisine and customer service. “Customer service is our top priority,” says Jason. “Our servers are there to ensure our customers are enjoying their entire dining experience.”

The chefs at Mediterranean Bistro also understand the importance of appetizing presentation, by ensuring all dishes are arranged to entice the palette. Mediterranean Bistro also understands the value of using fresh, quality ingredients for their dishes. Each dish that is brought to the customer is presented at the peak of its flavour, texture and aroma. They have something delicious for everyone.

“They are really wonderfully prepared dishes – everything is prepared to BEST

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perfection. The presentation of the food is elegant, and the taste of the food is amazing. It’s like eating a piece of art. The servers are very professional and friendly.

Mediterranean Bistro is one of the few places in Regina that makes you feel like you’ve eaten in a fancy restaurant without breaking the bank. I’ve been to many restaurants in Regina, so I can say with some measure of certainty that you’d be hard pressed to find a better restaurant

in Regina, especially one that offers such an affordable fine dining experience.

Mediterranean Bistro blows all other fine dining restaurants right out of the water,” raves customer Scott Waters.

dining experience. You may call to book reservations at (306)757-1666, or for more information including a variety of menus, visit their website at www. medbistro.ca. FLR

For an affordable fine dining experience, visit the Mediterranean Bistro at 2589 Quance Street East in Regina. Customers may make reservations, or simply drop by the restaurant for an amazing

Mediterranean Bistro 2589 Quance Street Regina 306.757.1666 www.medbistro.ca

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Reliability and Excellence:

The TradiTion ConTinues

By Bill SoRochan Photos cal FEhR

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uality customer service, expansive product selection and guaranteed best prices - these three guiding principles have always been the foundation you can rely on on when you walk into the luxurious Krazy Kiley’s entertainment center in the heart of Regina’s warehouse district.

A Saskatchewan owned and operated company for the past 30 years, Krazy BEST

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Kiley’s has always been your numberone-stop-shop for a comprehensive selection of furniture, electronics and appliances in the Regina area. With their dedicated team of experienced and knowledgeable staff ready to assist you, the Krazy Kiley’s 100 per cent commitment has always been built upon respecting every customer’s integrity by offering the best in service and guaranteed satisfaction.

Whether it is a 3D home entertainment system, state of the art sound system for your vehicle, enhancing your home with stylish décor, or updating your computer network, you’ll find it at Krazy Kiley’s. Their high-tech sound rooms and multiple product display areas offer you the highest quality in brand names like Sharp, Toshiba, Sony, Apple and Panasonic. With over 150 years combined experience in the electronics

business, they can provide you with the most up-to-date information and assistance regarding any of your electronics purchases.

Krazy Kiley’s can also assist you in designing and installing the perfect home entertainment system through their exclusive HomeSolutions division. They’ll advise you on important details such as maximizing your room for acoustics or determining the best placement of speakers so you can enjoy Hollywood screening room comfort in your own home. Krazy Kiley’s can also assist in the important task of protecting your belongings at your home or business through their SecurTek home security service. Their vast electronics knowledge and experience can help you determine whether a wired or wireless security system will work best for the areas that require monitoring.

Krazy Kiley’s continuing success in the Regina area would not be possible without the support of their dedicated loyal customers. Over the years, the company has always felt the need to return community support by assisting with numerous sponsored charity events. Krazy Kiley’s have always maintained that to continue growing, they must continue to give back to this welcoming community and the people who have stood by them for the past three decades.

With such a wide array of products and services, the Krazy Kiley’s commitment to offering their customers the best selection and service at the lowest prices is one of the many reasons why they continue to be a mainstay in the Regina marketplace experience. They look forward to passing on this tradition of excellence to their new and existing customers for many years to come.

Krazy Kiley’s is located at 2220 Dewdney Ave. Hours of operation are Mondays and Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. Visit them online at www.krazykileys.ca or call at (306) 352-6677. FLR

Krazy Kiley’s 2220 Dewdney Ave Regina (306) 352-6677 www.krazykileys.ca BEST of the

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Wake up your palette

By Shawna Common Photos Calvin Fehr

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alley Girls Catering is owned and operated by local women who are passionate about food and customer service, and that passion is growing the company. Founded in 2002, the company began operating the food service at Deer Valley Golf Course. They expanded in 2005 to include Lumsden’s Brickhouse Bistro; in 2008, when assuming the food service operations at the Tartan Curling Club and Currie Field in Regina; and again in 2009, after acquiring the Sherwood Forest Golf and Country Club. Their empire has continued with the opening of Fresh & Sweet in downtown Regina in 2010, and

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the soon-to-open Fresh on Hamilton.

“I loved the food I had at Sherwood Forest Golf and Country Club,” exclaims one diner. “The service was beyond excellent, very professional and friendly.

My server knew everything about the food she was serving. The food was delicious, and I could tell that the chef had put a lot of work into making my meal. I am lactose intolerant, which can cause a lot of problems for me. Valley Girls Catering was able to provide a delicious meal that I could actually eat.”

Smashed potatoes with creamy chipotle dip, caprese bites and watermelon

salsa are just a few of the tasty culinary concoctions on the menu that you won’t forget. Look to Valley Girls Catering team for fresh, innovative food ideas that are outside the box.

Valley Girls Catering also offers a unique, delectable selection of freshly made items that will make any event unforgettable. Favorites like hot spinach and artichoke dip, or pita pockets stuffed with chicken, bacon, tomatoes and dressing, will keep your guests coming back to the appetizer tray for more. A variety of delicious soups, salads and sides are also available, and each dish

features quality, fresh ingredients that are made to order. Customers can browse through Valley Girls’ detailed online catering menu complete with menu suggestions. Whether it’s a wedding party of 500 or an office lunch for three, the Valley Girls’ reputation for delicious, high quality food and service ensures that your event will be a tasty one.

“Our team is proud that everything from Valley Girls Catering is made from scratch,” says Beata Thompson, one of the company`s managing partners. “Fresh ingredients make all the difference.”

Valley Girls Catering currently employs

50 staff, many of who are long-time employees. “One of the greatest benefits of Valley Girls Catering is the staff members’ ability to regularly experiment with new food combinations and flavours,” says Beata. This supportive artistic environment results in delicious dishes that are unique to Valley Girls Catering.

Valley Girls Catering will cater any function from a small office lunch to a large wedding reception. Their website contains a detailed online menu, including suggestions on menu combinations. Since they are constantly developing new and exciting dishes, the menu is regularly

updated to include all their delicious creations. Visit their website at www.valleygirlscatering.ca to discover the unique and delectable cuisine Valley Girls Catering will provide for your next function. FLR Valley Girls Catering 2500 Victoria Ave Regina (306) 751-2233 www.valleygirlscatering.ca BEST FineLifestyles

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Mi Casa et su Casa

By Gail Jansen Kesslar

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i Casa et Su Casa is an old Spanish saying that invites those who visit to make themselves at home, and nowhere is this saying more fitting that at Kergano’s.

It’s a passion for food that is fresh and local, a love and gratitude for the customers who are more like family, and a spirit of positivity in everything they do; each of these key ingredients goes into every dish that is prepared, every beverage that is poured and every song that is played at Kergano’s.

Members of a large family themselves, father and son, Tim and Tyco Huska, wanted to create an ambiance where customers would feel like they were walking into the family home. They wanted a place where their guests would feel comfortable enough to stop by the open kitchen to chat with the chefs as they prepare their meal, where servers could sit and take the time to get to know the customers, and where the music never stops. Judging from the smiles on all who enter, and the even bigger ones on those who leave, they’re succeeding.

“Family is everything,” says Tim. “And when you come to Kergano’s, you’re family.”

Now in its second year of operation, Kergano’s is a full artisan experience bringing together the best elements to give you an experience you won’t soon forget.

It’s in the loving details you’ll find in everything they do, and everything they touch: from the hand-burnt spruce planks that line the floor, to the handmade slate tables made for dining, and even the simple slice of cucumber that flavours every glass of water you drink.

It’s in the music that daily fills the small 50 seat dining room. Hand-picked musical selections are chosen for their energy and positivity, live music is played on select concert nights, and on Sunday nights, the microphone is open to any and all who care to share. Sometimes, even the servers and customers pick up a drum and join the fun.

That’s the type of energy that infuses Kergano’s; an energy you’ll also find in the spirits that you drink and the vibe that surrounds you.

John Harper, front of house manager/ bartender, sources as many locallymade beverages as possible. He has secured products from companies whose

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philosophies align with their own: beer from Paddock Wood. wine from Living Sky Winery and vodka from Last Mountain Distillery.

“These companies care as much about their product as we do,” says Harper, who by all accounts, is an artisan in his own right. He has an instinct for knowing just the right beverage to pair with meals to complete the customer’s festival of senses.

The minute you walk into Kergano’s, you can feel an almost spiritual vibe. Tyco says its source is from the restaurant’s namesake, a close friend who passed too young, and whose personal passion and love for life embodies everything that Kergano’s strives to be.

“We’re all about positive energy,” says Tyco. “You can even see it in our logo - a peace sign, a heart, the flower of life. If you can give good energy, you’re going to get good energy.”

At the heart of that energy, and at the core of Kergano’s, is the passion that both Tim and Tyco share for delicious, well-prepared food.

They source locally available products, and also grow a lot of their own food right on the premises. While not every tomato or fresh herb may be home-grown, each and every ingredient is carefully selected to ensure that only the best and the freshest goes into everything they make.

“I’m really conscious about where all of our food comes from,” says Tim. “Our menu changes with the seasons, and with what is fresh and available at the time.”

Even their meats are sourced locally, and butchered and smoked onsite using freshly cut red willow, through a process that has been handed down through generations.

Not a single element is left to chance.

“I want everyone to leave feel content and satisfied,” says Tim. “I want them to feel that this was more than just a good meal. I want them to leave feeling that they were fed, spiritually, mentally and physically, and that all of their senses were awakened.”

“Our guest book and the comments left by people from around the world make up our resumé,” says Tyco.

“There are things that work and things that don’t work… and this works.”

“It’s really a festival for your senses,” says Tyco. “When you walk into Kergano’s, our home becomes yours, and you become family.” FLR

Kergano’s 71 high St W Moose Jaw (306) 630-5552 kerganos@live.ca BEST

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Donelle Shing, Chef Ravinder and Ashley Decru

From Northern India to Southern Saskatchewan comes

the exotIc SpIceS oF puNjab

By Tobie HainsTock Photos cal FeHr

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utter chicken, saffron rice‌those who love Indian food probably do because they were introduced to it through these two signature dishes.

Their tastes may have expanded since first being exposed to those dishes, but they remain the most popular items on the menu at Spices of Punjab.

Long known as leaders in Indian Food in Regina, the Singh family owned and operated the popular India House restaurant until 2007, when they sold

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the business. Raised in the traditions of creating excellent Indian food, Dharam Singh opened Spices of Punjab on the corner of 4th Avenue and Albert Street in 2008. The restaurant quickly became known for the quality of the food it produced, the authenticity of the recipes and before long, there were line-ups out the door.

This is a mixed blessing for any restaurateur, explains Singh, because while it means that the food he cooks is

enjoyed by many people, nobody likes waiting in line to eat. This prompted Singh to look for a new location for his restaurant. When he found the old Mr. Rib location at 320 Victoria Avenue East, he knew he had found a winner.

Located prominently on the Northeast corner of Victoria Avenue East and Francis Street, the new Spices of Punjab has lots of room for parking in front, and much more space inside. This means that when a group of people wants to

enjoy the city’s best Indian food for lunch, they don’t need to wait in line.

Indian food is full of flavour, rich and not necessarily spicy. Spices such as turmeric, garlic, ginger and saffron are used plentifully, adding a richness that most food simply doesn’t have. When many people think of Indian food, they think curry, and automatically assume that it will be spicy.

In reality, a curry is just a mix of spices, and each one is different. Some can have a lot of heat, but many curries are not spicy at all.

What is the secret to great taste? Charcoal.

Two authentic Tandoori ovens are used in the kitchen, clay drums heated by real wood charcoal, slowly cooking flavour into food. These ancient ovens have been used for thousands of years and are one of the reasons that great Indian food has such a distinct flavour.

The lunch buffet runs Monday to Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and is full of all your favourite Indian food such as tandoori chicken, butter chicken, pakoras, vegetables and much more.

In the evenings, a full menu of northern Indian food is available, featuring ingredients such as lamb, beef and pork. The staff and servers are well-trained on the intricacies of Indian cuisine, and can help novice diners assemble a mouth watering menu. There is even a wide selection of vegetarian for those looking for something a little different.

Spices of Punjab is a licensed dining facility and features Kingfisher beer, proudly imported from India.

Open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and 4:30 to 9:00 p.m., Spices of Punjab offers dine in, take-out and delivery options so that you can enjoy great food from the comfort of your home.

The restaurant also caters events of all sizes, bringing hot and healthy Indian food right to your location. They can even send a chef and a full-sized Tandoori oven to your event for the freshest food imaginable.

For more information call (306) 543-1000 or check them out at www.spicesofpunjab.com. FLR

Spices of Punjab 320 Victoria Avenue 306.543.1000 www.spicesofpunjab.com BEST of the

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Cathedral:

Where Art And Business Come together

By Tobie HainsTock Photos sHawn FulTon

Y

ou can sense it as soon as you walk down 13th Avenue; this community has something exceptional. People are welcoming and greet you as you make your way, and you see the community pride displayed in the murals. The music of buskers, the sight of local residents stopped on the street visiting, and a friendly wave from a business brings a warm feeling.

Progressing down the street, your suspicions are confirmed this part of town is certainly unique. A mix of art and business, Regina’s Cathedral area offer a unique shopping experience for residents and tourists alike. Specialty shops abound that offer original wares such as pottery, clothing, music, baby apparel, books and home decor. A surprisingly versatile selection of restaurants and coffee shops also dot the neighbourhood.

Whether it’s an iced coffee or fine dining, you will find it in the Cathedral area.

The integration of the artistic and business worlds may seem a little strange at first, but it makes a lot of sense on further thought. Who better to be an entrepreneur than an artist

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with original products to sell? According to Margaret Bessai, chairperson of the Volunteer Planning Committee for the Cathedral Arts Festival, this was also the thought of Ken Mitchell and Deb Jones more than 20 years ago. At a Cathedral Community Association meeting, several committee members made note of the number of talented local artists. They asked themselves, how can we start supporting the people?

The committee decided to look into planning a community event to highlight local people. “It started off as a bit of a craft sale and film screening,” explains Bessai. “Year after year, the event has grown to what it is today.” The Cathedral Arts Festival has become a popular Regina six day event featuring drama, music, visual arts and a busy street fair.

The popularity of the Cathedral Arts Festival is reflective of the appeal that the community has on the city. There’s a special ambiance here that encourages people to come and shop, and stay and relax.

The variety of Cathedral shops caught Bessai’s attention, and she was pleasantly surprised to note the number of creative businesses in the area. “As I talked to different business owners, I began to realize that in each business, people I didn’t expect were running them,” says Bessai. She goes on to explain that artists and creative people make excellent business operators.

Craftspeople and artists are encouraged to join organizations like the Saskatchewan Craft Council, which can provide guidance in areas of pricing, marketing and more.

Bessai encourages everyone to take a walk through the neighbourhood. “I’ve walked up and down this street twice a day for close to five years, and I know pretty much every wall and every business and every person,” she says as she comments about the strong community sense that the people of the Cathedral Village area possess.

It’s that sense of community and welcoming nature combined with the artistic flavour that make this neighbourhood a bragging point for all Reginians. FLR

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Fresh and Stylish Clothing

For Day anD night

By Amy NelsoN-mile PhotoS CAlViN Fehr

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ustomers are thrilled when they discover Uforia and Muse Clothing for the first time.

Located in the Cathedral Area on 13th Avenue, these stores are a real find for anyone looking for exciting places to shop for women’s clothing.

Owners Shalene and Carleen believe in keeping fresh inventory that always reflects pop culture trends. This summer their styles include high waist shorts, coloured jeans, crop tops, hi/ low hems and maxi dresses.

Shalene Pederson and Carleen rozon

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Uforia has a casual vibe, offering tops, tanks, shorts and jeans. If you’re looking for a dress for going out or a special

occasion, Muse has it. Both stores focus on fashion, and keeping their customers happy with constantly new and circulating stock and unique pieces.

You won’t see many others wearing the same outfit that you buy from Uforia Muse. Uforia is for day, and Muse is for night – clothe yourself in it.

For a shopping experience that rivals the biggest cities, stop by Uforia Muse today. FLR Uforia and Muse Clothing 3024 13th Avenue306-569-2228 Uforia Muse on Facebook and Twitter Monday to Friday 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

EXPERTAdvice What’s Going on in your Child’s Brain this Summer?

Janet Klassen

Oxford Learning Regina regina@oxfordlearning.com

When most kids hear the last school bell ring, they empty out their lockers, return their textbooks, purge their book bags, and happily go about the business of enjoying summer.

Ongoing research is making it all too obvious that while the summer break may be refreshing and relaxing for kids, the break from academics is actually not so good for their brains. The school year may be mentally demanding, but kids’ brains actually thrive on the daily routine that the school year provides.

After a summer spent relaxing, students may feel refreshed, but they are far from ready to learn. Summer learning research shows that after taking a two month break, students have lost approximately 20 to 30 per cent of their academic learning momentum. They’ve gone backward in terms of learning.

Graphs, charts and mountains of statistics are not needed to prove that this fact rings true: prolonged time away from any activity, whether it be running or piano lessons or video games, leads to a decline in skills and requires additional time to regain proficiency. Like any

muscle in the body, the brain needs to maintain its training in order to stay in the best shape possible.

improve important learning skills such as reading comprehension and study and organization skills.”

The brain never stops learning; it is always in learning mode, ready to make astounding leaps in comprehension. Kids don’t actually shut off their brains during the summer, but the academic neural connections that were built throughout the school year weaken. So even though your soon-to-be high school senior is mastering hitting a home run, or learning other new skills, his understanding of quadratic equations is slipping fast.

With the busy school year, many students don’t have time to boost their learning skills. The slowdown in activities during the summer gives students the perfect opportunity to prepare for the year ahead by reviewing concepts from the year before, or previewing material for the next year.

By maintaining academic momentum over the summer (as little as a couple of hours a week has been shown to be enough) students of all ages can maintain academic neural connections, keep their school skills up to snuff, and even get a head start on next year.

According to Janet Klassen of Oxford Learning, Regina, summer is the perfect opportunity for students to make impressive academic gains. “Summer is an opportunity for students to fill in learning gaps, make sense of material learned during the school year, and

Klassen says that there are plenty of simple ways to maintain academic momentum over the summer. From scheduling daily reading time, to playing mind-challenging puzzles such as Sudoku or crosswords, to enrolling in an academic class or camp program, it is easy to avoid academic losses this summer by incorporating activities that stimulate the brain into your summer plans.

For more information about summer learning, contact Janet Klassen at Oxford Learning Regina. FLR

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Michelle Loustel

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VERSATILE COSMETICS THAT ARE RIGHT FOR YOU

BY LISA SCHICK

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ichelle Loustel is the makeup artist behind Saskatchewan’s newest elite cosmetic company, MJ Studios Pro Cosmetics.

Her journey started more than five years ago, and now Michelle’s MJ Studios has a new line of Pro Cosmetics that are high enough quality for professionals, and are also easy to use and versatile enough for an everyday woman.

Michelle has been in the makeup business for 15 years, and has worked with some of the biggest companies in cosmetics.

She’s taken her favourite aspects of the lines she’s worked with, and used her experience and expertise to develop the best cosmetic lines available.

She began by developing the M1 cosmetics. The line is full of vivid, HD colours that are highly pigmented and work for everyday wear, yet can be easily transformed for evening.

The decision to develop the second line, M2 Virtuous Minerals, was inspired by Michelle’s business partner, Amy Budzich.

Amy is one of many women who suffer allergic reactions to chemicals commonly found in cosmetics. They decided they needed to create makeup that is good for the skin, and Michelle focused on looking past the makeup application to what it does for the client the day after.

foundation has less than six ingredients, and there are no harsh chemicals, parabens, or preservatives. They are antibacterial, can’t be contaminated, won’t clog the pores, and are naturally healing. The M2 line has also been certified cruelty-free.

parties by offering personal makeup consultations for up to 12 women, along with a good time. Women get to see a full makeup tutorial, including a look at what will work for them personally. There is even the option of shirtless butlers in this relaxing experience.

Both lines offer a complete range of versatile products, and quality is never compromised. If the product can’t be “pushed to the limit”, it isn’t even considered. The initial MJ Studios product launch was large and they continue to develop.

MJ Studios is based in Saskatchewan, and their products were created for Saskatchewan women. There’s already outside interest in the cosmetics line, but they’re being kept exclusively in-province until 2013. They want to make the line more accessible to clients by allowing certified makeup artists to join the ProArtist program, carry the M1 and M2 cosmetics, and also sell them. They’re also looking for qualifying retailers to provide the one-on-one service and passion of Michelle and her team. FLR

Michelle ensures her products are the “best of the best” because she won’t sell anything less to her clients. Even when she worked for other cosmetics companies, Michelle refused to sell things that were below par, or were wrong for the client.

MJ Studios works with everyday women, and everything is client-centered. They ensure that customers get the right products and the education to be able to use those products.

MJ Studios Pro Cosmetics 2327 E Tuscany Way Regina (306) 570-4119 mloustel@msn.com mjprocosmetics.com

There is even a twist on traditional home

The M2 line is for the increasing number of women who are becoming conscious of what they put on their skin. They are 100 per cent pure mineral products, the

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(L-R) Chantelle, Dani, Patrick, Kerry Keller, Nicki, Tim and Tiffany

Pristine, relaxing Weddings and events in the Country

By Shawna Common Photos Cal Fehr

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n a picturesque and serene garden stands Kerry Keller, owner and operator of Truly Unique Country Weddings and Adventures. Visitors to his farm suggested that he turn his lovely yard into a place for weddings, and in 2003 he began work on what has become a magical venue. He hosted his first wedding in 2006, and has been busy ever since hosting weddings, family reunions, stag and stagette parties, corporate parties, anniversaries, cubs and scouts camps and many other events.

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Kerry is committed to customer service, and will ensure your event is special, offering everything from horsedrawn carriages, to exploding wedding cakes, to a howitzer cannon for a military wedding. Professional black tie service complements the beautiful surroundings and amenities. There are 20 separate gardens, a babbling brook with water falls and koy pond, foot paths, footbridge, gazebo, camping area, trout fishing pond, horseshoe court, 3D archery, beach volleyball court, croquet, shooting range, all-terrain vehicles and a

bed and breakfast. The staff maintains the two fire pits as late as clients are awake. The only limit to your event is your imagination.

Kerry also ensures pest control, and eliminates mosquitos in an environmentally-friendly fashion. Metal tiki torches with citronella candles placed in the gardens at twilight add to the charm. A foot path with stepping stones has the names and dates of every wedding held there. There is also different kinds of artwork, including tree

carvings, fire art and air brush murals.

The permanent tent with bar features a dance floor that replicates the bounce of old-time horse hair dance floors. “People can dance on this floor all night without getting sore feet,” Kerry proudly proclaims.

“Everything for an event can be done in one location,” explains Kerry. “Weekend guests have the venue from Friday at 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 a.m. on Sunday.

We also host events every other day of the week.”

“Customer service is our focal point. We ensure the restrooms are kept clean and stocked at all times, and that tables are bussed, heaters brought when needed, and the fire pits stoked,” says Kerry.

Bride Taffeta, and groom Braden, are happy with the service, “The staff and Kerry are very friendly, welcoming and accommodating. The grounds are well maintained, and the place has a very relaxing atmosphere. Kerry went out of his way to accommodate our requests.

This place is quaint, welcoming, homey, comfortable and magical. Kerry gives you the canvas to paint your own event.

Kerry is like a friend helping you with your event; he doesn’t seem like a wedding planner.”

Groomsman Dallas Lylyk exclaims, “I really appreciate the fact that we’re not stuck in a hall. We can leave the tent to roam around the grounds and hang out by the fire pits. The scenery is really unique and pristine. We didn’t feel like we had any restrictions on what we wanted to do for this wedding.”

Truly Unique Country Weddings and Adventures is a short 10 minute drive north of Regina. Visit the website at www. tucweddings.com, or call Kerry at (306) 569-3121 to discuss your event.

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The ‘elemenTs’ of success

By Tobie HainsTock PHOTOS caL FeHR

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hen talking to Kirk Bishop, owner of Elements Hair Design, it is clear where his passions are. His family is number one, and he speaks of his wife and two sons with great pride and admiration.

His other great passion is his other family – the staff at Elements Hair Design, award winning provincial champions BEST

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who have been so for seven out of the past eight years. This group of highly skilled and professional journeyman hair stylists are as supportive of each other as any family member would be. “We are just like a family,” says Kirk, “in many ways they are just like daughters to me.”

The salon itself is a bustling hub of positive energy – loud, full of laughter

– Kirk jokingly describes it as a ‘hair nightclub’ and says that is the way a salon is supposed to be.“We live like a family, laugh like a family, and even quarrel like a family,” he chuckles.

Kirk is also quick to point out that in that family is the salon manager. “She’s a phenomenal business woman!” he boasts as he states that she knows the

products and is able to tell clients exactly how to use them. “There are two women I can’t live without, my wife and my salon manager,” smiles Kirk.

Kirk speaks with pride as he mentions that one of his stylists is attending a national competition in Toronto. “The winning style will appear on the cover of a national magazine,” he explains.

This is clearly a highly prestigious competition where only top stylists qualify to compete.

How does one become so good at what they do? “Education!” says Kirk. “It keeps us current.”

He goes on to explain that he and his stylists attend at least one national convention and four update classes per year. These events discuss the latest innovations in styling, cutting, colouring and more.

Kirk also points out that, aside from education, it is vital to the entire team that they establish a strong relationship with each of their clients.

“Whether you are two years old or one hundred, we want to have a relationship with you,” says Kirk, “we want to take the time to consult with you.” Some of Kirk’s own clients have been with him for 30 years. He states that the key to this success is to do your number one work with each client throughout the day. Treating each person as the unique individual they are, and really listening to what they are looking for is crucial to ensure that the customer is satisfied.

As a Redkin Platinum Premiere Salon, you can count on the product excellence of Redkin products being sold at Elements Hair Design.

“We only sell Redkin products,” adds Kirk, who points out that he and his team just got back from Redkin’s Montreal Fusion 2012. “It was a great time, we came back with lots of great information about the product,” he says.

Elements Hair Design also offers message therapy and esthetics featuring the luxurious Eden Esthetics. This popular brand features manicures, pedicures, facials, peels, body treatments and more. Kirk also points out that they are currently revising their salon menu to offer even more wonderful items.

Kirk encourages everyone to come in to Elements Hair Design for a consultation. “You may be a guest when you arrive – but you’ll be family when you leave.” FLR Elements Hair Design 105-1275 Broad Street 545-8087 BEST of the

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UniqUe Works of Art thAt LAst

By Lisa schick

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hen the day comes and the big question is popped, her breath should be taken away by the ring inside that small velvet box. That’s where Fire and Ice Custom Jewellery comes in. Chain stores are a quick and easy option, but why buy one of 100 when you can create a one-of-a-kind ring that will last a lifetime.

Fire and Ice use only the best materials to build their jewellery, and they use a higher concentration of 24 karat gold mixed with their special white alloy that is guaranteed never to fade in colour. They use only the highest grade diamonds and gems, and they take the time and care to engineer high strength pieces that will last. They don’t use thin, fragile prongs and they don’t hollow out the rings to save on weight - they just don’t cut any corners.

Custom jewellery is not a new thing, but Fire and Ice is doing it in a new way.

They have over 1000 different pieces displayed on their website, including engagement rings, wedding bands, family rings, earrings, pendants and body

jewellery. But that’s only a portion of the work they’ve done over the past seven years. Using higher quality materials means they can use designs and stone settings that others in the industry can’t.

As they’ve grown, so has the jewellery they produce, and it’s become more creative and complex. The pieces that Christopher and Ryan create at Fire and Ice are so unique; they’re gaining international attention from those in the industry.

When you walk into Fire and Ice Custom Jewellery with your ideas, they will be able to create almost anything you have in mind. Making the jewellery from scratch allows them to tailor the design to your budget. They will work with you to make sure the piece is exactly what you’re looking for, and will make sure it’s up to their quality standards.

With their in-house 3D design studio, they can create pieces to match things you may already have, creating the perfect wedding bands to match that engagement ring.

Fire and Ice will also help you reuse or recycle old gold that has broken, or that you don’t want to wear anymore. You can bring it in to the store and they can reshape the gold into something you’ll be proud to wear, or you can put the value of that gold toward an entirely new creation.

Do you have a piece of jewellery that you love but can’t wear anymore because it has broken or worn out? Bring it to Fire and Ice, and they can repair or restore your jewellery as well.

Spend the time with Christopher or Ryan at Fire and Ice to create a unique piece of jewellery, and you won’t be disappointed with your one-of-a-kind work of art. FLR

Fire and Ice Custom Jewellery 3125 Quance Street Phone: (306) 585-FIRE (3473) www.firenice.ca BEST FineLifestyles

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IT’S ALWAYS SUNNY AT FABUTAN

BY BILL SOROCHAN PHOTOS CAL FEHR

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ummer is finally here, but you can’t always count on good weather.

Everyone is busy, and many people are choosing a controlled alternative to gain the same benefits the sun provides naturally. That alternative is Fabutan Sun Tan Studios.

At Fabutan, you can always have a tan and avoid those embarrassing tan lines, and on a schedule that works for you. We believe in building your tan slowly, and never allowing your skin to be overexposed. Low-pressure UV lamps are used to mimic the sun and its benefits, to give you a rich, golden tan.

Our trained and certified staff can educate you about the proper way to achieve a tan. We guide you through BEST

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the tanning process, whether you’re a beginning tanner looking to develop a base tan, or just searching for the premium tanning lotion that gives you the bronzed skin you crave.

It’s very important to keep skin healthy whatever your reason for tanning.

Tanning lotions supply essential nutrients that keep your skin moist and nourished. Active ingredients supplement skin cells with proteins that naturally enhance the tanning process.

Our expert staff can help you choose the appropriate tanning lotion to give you the best results for your skin type, and help your tan last longer.

An increasingly popular addition at our studios is the revolutionary Mystic HD

sunless tanning that gives you a flawless sun-kissed glow. Once you’re inside a private self-contained booth, a sweeping airbrush applies uniform amounts of tanning mist, with natural skin softening ingredients, to your entire body. Each automated booth is equipped with a heated dryer that keeps you warm and allows your skin to dry instantly after application. There are four colour shades to choose from, ensuring that your skin tone will be natural. It is the perfect and quick tanning solution, for a special occasion, a vacation, or your lifestyle, that easily fits into your busy schedule.

At Fabutan, we strive to provide a relaxing and fun studio environment, with immaculate quality tanning equipment,

Lynn Henderson and Janice Norleen

friendly and knowledgeable staff and amazing results. Tanning at Fabutan will change the way you look and feel, that’s why your first tan is always complimentary. Tanning packages can be used at any Fabutan location across Canada, and we now offer Air Miles.

As a proudly Canadian company founded more than 30 years ago, with locally owned and operated Regina locations since 1998, Fabutan is committed to creating an unparalleled customer experience.

Our goal is to educate our customers on how to tan responsibly. That’s the Fabutan difference.

For further information about all the great products and services that Fabutan offers, including specials and contests, check out our Fabutan Regina Facebook page and www.fabutan.com. FLR

Three Fabutan studios in Regina to serve you.

East -184 University Park Dr. (306) 585-8826 South - 4534 Albert St. (306) 352-8826 Northwest - 6238 Rochdale Blvd.

(306) 721-8826 www.fabutan.com BEST of the

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A UniqUe BoUtiqUe PHotoS SHAWN FULTON

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azio Boutique opened in April 2010, and is located downtown at 1801 Scarth Street in the Scarth Street Mall.

Fazio has style for all women from “glam” dress to everyday summer dresses and edgy office wear.

Our boutique carries tops fashion brands from Australia and the U.K., to give that unique look for women 17 to 50; brands like MinkPink, Motel, French Connection, Chinese Laundry, Yumi, Lipsy London and plenty more.Fazio also carries women’s shoes and vintage-inspired jewellery and accessories. FLR Fazio Boutique 1801 Scarth Street Regina, Saskatchewan (306) 565-5006 TOP LEFT: Brittany, Railin andTabitha

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TreaT yourself To wellness

BY SHAWNA COMMON PHOTOS SHAWN FULTON

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renda Klarer has been a massage therapist for more than two decades, and she wanted to offer something different to Regina residents.

She started Wascana Remedial Massage almost 20 years ago, and has been evolving and expanding ever since. “It’s important that we thrive and diversify to meet the needs of our clients,” explains Brenda. “That’s why we offer a larger BEST

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choice of therapies for our clients’ health and well-being.”

Wascana Remedial Massage is the only clinic in Regina to offer a full range of massage and reflexology services, including Champissage (East Indian head massage), Bowen therapy and BodyTalk. Wascana Remedial Massage has just acquired one of the first Class 4 medical grade lasers in Saskatchewan,

which is the non-invasive use of light energy to generate a photochemical response in damaged or dysfunctional tissue. It is a drug-free, surgery-free way to treat painful debilitating conditions and facilitate improved function and mobility. Laser therapy can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, accelerate recovery and promote healing and soft tissue repair. The laser shines through a

roller ball so the client will feel soothing warmth as it is administered directly to the skin of the treatment area, further ensuring a comfortable experience.

Bowen therapy involves gentle movements on muscle and connective tissue, which prompt soft tissue release, sending neurological impulses to the brain.

Impulses travel through the internal nervous system pathways, and stimulate whole brain responses, which address every system in the body from the internal organ systems to the musculo-skeletal structure. It is very gentle, and clients are amazed at the results.

Problems and pain that clients have suffered with for years suddenly disappear, and in some cases never reoccur. “We want our clients to feel empowered to stay well,” explains Brenda. “The well-being of our clients is our primary interest.”

BodyTalk therapy’s major assets are its simplicity, safety and the speed of its results. Because the BodyTalk System allows the body’s own healing abilities to effect change, clients see long-lasting, ongoing improvements in health rather than shortterm symptomatic relief. It is non-invasive, objective in application and works very effectively. The BodyTalk system is a revolutionary form of alternative healthcare that encompasses western medical expertise, energy dynamics of acupuncture, osteopathic and chiropractic philosophy and clinical findings of applied kinesiology using the insights of modern physics and mathematics.

All therapists at Wascana Remedial Massage are certified in whichever technique they offer. The clinic’s décor is warm, inviting and relaxing, which is conducive to a successful therapy session. Therapy sessions could be massage therapy, Bowenwork, laser therapy, or BodyTalk. Every client is offered Kangen water after each therapy session to make them feel energized, and further promote healing.

Wascana Remedial Massage Centre is in a great location in the newly renovated River Heights Shopping Centre at 3440 Regina Avenue with plenty of free parking.

Call (306) 585-1824 to book your appointment. Visit their website at www.WascanaMassage.com for more details on the treatment options available, printable forms for your appointments, or for further information about Wascana Remedial Massage. For someone who has everything, or for someone that appreciates an innovative gift, give the gift of healing by purchasing a gift certificate at Wascana Remedial Massage Centre.

FLR

Brenda Klarer

Wascana Remedial Massage 3440 Regina Avenue Regina (306) 585-1824 www.wascanamassage.com

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INVU now spell it out loud!

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ummer is a great time to not only wear clothing that’s light and brightly coloured, but also to make sure that we are looking our freshest. So, it’s a perfect time to pay a visit to Dermalojik Medical Aesthetics for a cosmetic treatment that will be professionally administered by owner Karen Kohm, BSc RN. Your skin will have a lovely radiance, and you’ll leave feeling and looking self-confident and rejuvenated.

You can choose from a variety of treatment options: BOTOX®, Juvéderm, Soft Lift (a combination of BOTOX® and Juvéderm), Latisse (provides longer, thick, darker lashes), and Obagi, the No.1 physician-prescribed skin care system in the world.

The treatments are perfectly safe when administered by an experienced professional, and Kohm is one of the most experienced practitioners of medical cosmetics in Saskatchewan. In addition to her academic and nursing credentials, she has had extensive training in medical cosmetics since 2006, and was one of the first medical cosmetic injectors in Saskatchewan.

The clinic also has on-site medical director, Dr. Darrell Avram, ophthamologist and oculoplastic surgeon. Dr. Avram has extensive experience in working with the treatments; he was involved in the first trials with Botox® 20 years ago, and was the first practitioner in Saskatchewan.

“You know you’re in good hands with us,” says Kohm. “You’ve already chosen the people with the most experience in Saskatchewan, and I regularly take part in ongoing professional development to make sure that I keep up with all the new developments in the field.”

The clinic will soon be getting a fresh look itself. Not only will the office be getting some renovations over the summer, but for a variety of reasons, the clinic will be changing its name to Invu. “The name is pronounced In-Vu,” Kohm explains, ”but when you spell it out, you’ll see that it’s what our clinic is all about: I Envy You—and people will be envying your smooth, radiant skin!”

The clinic is getting a fresh new look and will be changing its name to INVU. When you spell it out loud, I-N-V-U, people will be envying your smooth, radiant skin!

Kohm explains

Kohm is passionate about making sure that her clients walk away looking great and feeling good about themselves, and her dedication and commitment to her clients shine through the entire experience. She takes the time during the complimentary consultation to outline everything that can be expected from the treatments, and ensures that all possible questions are answered as well. She also provides lots of follow up after the treatment, and makes sure that clients know about the afterhours line in case they have questions. “I care about my clients,” she stresses. “I want them to feel completely comfortable.”

Kohm’s clients regularly refer their family and friends, and she has repeat clients from other provinces and as far away as the U.S. Kohm is pleased, but not surprised by this. “They know that when they come here they will encounter experienced people with integrity who will respect their privacy and take the time to make them comfortable. And when they leave, they will have a visibly radiant look and will truly be the envy of others!” FLR

Dermalojik Medical Aesthetics Cityview Center #500, 2550-15th Ave. Regina, SK (306) 522-1078 info@Dermalojik.com www.dermalojik.com BEST of the

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Dr. Pompa was recognized as a World Leader in Bariatric Surgery by Newsweek Magazine TM

A

ONE OF THE TOP 10 BARIATRIC HOSPITALS IN THE WORLD A Canadian First, Weight Loss Forever Achieves Center of Excellence Designation

BY KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER

By Karin Melberg Schwier

fter a grueling two-year review by the American Surgical Review Corporation, Weight Loss Forever (WLF)’s hospital was recently designated as an International Bariatric Center of Excellence, one of only 18 in the world. WLF met and exceeded stringent requirements in three areas: the hospital, the surgeon, and the bariatric program.

Melanie Wildman, President & CEO of WLF, says, “We’re a world-renowned bariatric hospital with exceedingly high standards, excellent patient care and compassionate support. What is at stake is our patients’ health and well being, and our license. It’s our dedication to our patients that make us one of the top 10 bariatric hospitals in the world,” she adds.

WLF’s Chief Bariatric Surgeon is Mayo Clinic-trained Dr. Liza Pompa, MD, Ph.D, AFACS. She is board-certified in the United States and is the first female in the world to be awarded Surgeon of Excellence.

WLF encourages people to do careful research and has developed the guide How to Research Your Surgeon. Patient safety is the primary consideration.

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Their hospital and medical staff are held to rigorous standards and unannounced, independent inspections.

WLF’s patients include doctors, specialists, government officials, lawyers, teachers, mechanics and farmers. Obesity is the #1 preventable cause of death in Canada. WLF’s award winning support program gives patients the tools they need to achieve long-term success – and surgery is just one part of the solution.

Over the last four years, over 800 patients received surgery and support through WLF’s program. There are offices in Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Lethbridge and Fredericton, NB, with specialists throughout the country. FLS

Take a tour of the hospital here

Weight Loss Forever 15 - 901 1st Avenue North, Saskatoon 306.665.8891 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 patientservices@weightlossforever.ca www.weightlossforever.ca http://facebook.com/WLForever

HUMBOLDT MAN MAKES A DRAMATIC CHANGE FOR THE

BETTER I

’ve always struggled with my weight from childhood. I continuously tried to diet on my own with some success, but I always gained it back plus more. Finally last year I hit my highest weight of 283 pounds. I’m 5’11” and I knew I was only going to go much higher if I didn’t do something.

I have a lot more energy throughout the day. My history of depression is now completely in control. Food no longer has power over me. I don’t feel the hunger or the cravings like I used to, especially for junk food. I now eat a healthy amount and I am very satisfied for a long time. I know I’ve added many years to my life and that every one of them will be so much better. The sleeve was the best decision I’ve ever made. I feel so good about myself and my only regret is not doing it sooner.

I had a very easy recovery and quick results. WLF has been terrific; they would call me every day and the support has been amazing. They were extremely thorough and very honest. I recommend the entire team at WLF to anyone. The experience has made me into a new healthy person, one that I will be the rest of my life. FLS

“My only regret is not doing it sooner” Chris Hergott

Chris, before losing 100lbs with WLF www.weightlossforever.ca 136-1621 Albert Street Regina SK 306.352.8446 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 BEST of the

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HOW JASON GAINED HIS HEALTH AND HAPPINESS BACK

BY KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER

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.J. “Jason” Everett struggled with obesity most of his young life. Always a big guy, Jason assumed his European background was the reason for being of good, solid stock. But “there were never limits on eating in my family,” he explains. “I was always physical, so it wasn’t until I was in mid 20’s when things really got out of hand.” Suddenly it was far more serious than just being a “big guy.” High blood pressure, diabetes and, Jason says, “all the ‘large person’ health problems.”

Jason is one of the 1% of patients who experienced a post-surgery complication. “My facilitator Julie was right there with me. Melanie drove down from Saskatoon and my doctor was on a teleconference with Dr. Pompa to share the information about my surgery. When I had a hospital stay, the Regina support group met at the hospital so I could attend. I was also so pleased with all the support from everyone on the WLF website and Facebook group, patients and facilitators alike. I couldn’t go to the Christmas party in Saskatoon so they even made me a video greeting and I was so happy. It felt like I was there with everybody.” Jason says he still feels “completely taken care of” throughout the journey.

“I just moved to Saskatoon and got a job right away at a tire shop,” Jason says. “Life is physically so much easier since I’ve lost over 145 pounds since October of last year. I am embracing a whole new life and outlook, enjoying meeting new people in Saskatoon, and happy to be telling my story.”

Another exciting chapter in Jason’s story is completing his first fun run, the Bridge City Boogie 5 km, in June. FLS

“Life is so much easier” Jason Everett

Jason, before losing 145lbs www.weightlossforever.ca 136-1621 Albert Street Regina SK 306.352.8446 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 BEST

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Take a tour of the hospital here

From the Greek plastikos, which means to mold or shape

PLASTIC SURGEON’S PASSION FAR MORE THAN SKIN DEEP

BY KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER

P

lastic surgery combines both art and science, and both are fields I am passionate about,” Dr. Rodas told Fine Lifestyles. “It is a profession where you can change and improve lives.”

“Plastic surgery involves reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. There still exists a misconception of vanity that is not applicable any more,” Dr. Rodas insists.

“This profession is much deeper than the concept of aesthetics alone.”

Dr. Rodas Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Weight Loss Forever 15 - 901 1st Avenue North, Saskatoon 306.665.8891 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 patientservices@weightlossforever.ca www.weightlossforever.ca http://facebook.com/WLForever

“Plastic surgery gives priority to the functionality of the body. Self-esteem is very important and is no longer a taboo subject,” explains Dr. Rodas.

“Changes in body contour, combined with psychosocial aspects, may lead to embarrassment or difficulty in everyday life. The goal of plastic surgery is to improve a person’s quality of life.”

He encourages potential patients to become well informed about plastic surgery and research their surgeon.

“One of the most common misconceptions of plastic surgery is that it’s magic,” Dr. Rodas explains.

“We are working with living tissue so it is very hard to predict a perfect result since there can be slight asymmetry, for example. Another misconception is that surgery is always complicationfree since the plastic surgery patient is healthy,” he adds. “As in any procedure, there is a risk, but with a qualified, experienced surgeon and team these can be managed correctly.”

“When patients come to us, they always receive the best care available,” says Dr. Rodas. “Our patients are not treated as a business, but with human care and kindness. The beautiful results and word of mouth from our patients is the reason we are in such high demand today.” FLS (A plastic surgeon for nearly 18 years, Dr. Rodas has presented a variety of courses, and national and international medical conferences. He is also Board Certified by the Mexican Association of Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and of the Baja California Association of Plastic Surgery. To learn more about Dr. Rodas’s credentials, or if you wonder if you are a candidate for this type of surgery, visit www.weightlossforever. ca, and click on Plastic Surgery.)

www.weightlossforever.ca 136-1621 Albert Street Regina SK 306.352.8446 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 BEST FineLifestyles

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MOM OF THREE GETS A LIFT TO HER FACE AND HER CONFIDENCE

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arol and Lloyd her husband of “35 memorable years,” work together in their own construction and roofing business. The 53-year-old mom of three grown children started thinking about a facelift.

Says Carol of her experience, “They gave me a great information package and all my questions were answered. Of course, I could access WLF on Facebook and online.

It didn’t take me long to decide to have the facelift surgery.”

Carol calls WLF her family for a reason.

Their support before, during and after the surgery, and throughout recovery was “heartwarming, and above and beyond anything I ever expected.” She learned about Dr. Marcos Rodas, the plastic surgeon at the WLF Centre for Excellence, and was comfortable with him from the beginning.

“Meeting him in person to discuss my concerns and hopes helped me relax and completely trust him,” says Carol. “My husband was with me and was so impressed with everyone and how they all responded immediately to any questions or concerns he had, too. Dr. Rodas included him and asked his thoughts when options were outlined.”

Any regrets? Not one. Lloyd says he “can’t believe that he is lucky enough to hang out with such a young sexy chick,” Carol laughs.

More importantly, she says, “I think I look and feel so much younger, a smaller version of myself at 40.” FLS www.weightlossforever.ca 136-1621 Albert Street Regina SK 306.352.8446 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891

Carol Caron After

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Carol Caron Before

EXPERTAdvice Keeping Your Hearing Running Smoothly

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

Eastside Audiology & Rehabilitation Inc. 1830b Victoria Ave E. Regina, Sk. 306.359.3277 www.lifewithsound.com

Just like Little Red Riding Hood asked why the Big Bad Wolf had such big ears, you may also wonder what it takes to make it “all the better to hear you with”. The Big Bad Wolf was partly right. Larger pinnas, the external flappy part of the ear, allows for a little more collection of high frequency sounds. That is why you can hear a bit better when you raise your cupped hand to the back of your ear. The first ever hearing aid, the hearing ear horn, followed this concept to try improving hearing. Let’s go a little further into the ear structure. Does a larger ear canal make it easier to hear?

The answer is no because the size of the canal doesn’t matter. It does matter if the ear canal has a blockage, and the most common form is earwax. We can be our own worst enemies when trying to clear blockages in our ear canals. Using items like Q-tips to remove wax can actually create blockages. This method of wax removal often pushes the wax beyond the second bend in the ear canal, and beyond the ear hair, the naturally built in sweepers that help push out wax. I have a little camera to show you this. One section is generally super clean and the rest has the beginnings of wax impaction. Not using Q-tips may actually help you hear a bit better.

Communication is a two way street. Asking others to use clear speech techniques can also help you hear a bit better. Contrary to popular belief, shouting does not necessarily constitute speaking clearly for the hearing impaired. The least expensive

hearing aid technique is to always face the listener, slow your speech down, project your words and enunciate everything clearly. You’ll be amazed at the results.

People equate hearing problems with hearing aids, and the vast majority of my patients do not require hearing aids. I’ve assisted patients with receiving proper medical and surgical care to correct hearing difficulties when they thought hearing aids was their only option. Hearing aids aren’t all that bad or big for those who do require them. Technology advancements are amazing, and hearing aids are so discrete these days, they are virtually invisible. You should explore options with your audiologist and otolaryngologist for middle ear implants if you do not like the thought of getting a hearing aid. These implants allow for continual wear even when sleeping and showering, and there is no fuss with batteries, cleaning and maintenance. They are like extended wear contact lenses - absolutely amazing!

If you do have hearing aids, you need to maintain them through regular cleans and checks - they don’t function long term without the deeper cleaning and moisture control that a deeper clean provides. It is no different than changing the oil in your care to keep it running smoothly, except that we don’t charge for this service. The moral to this story: to keep your hearing running smoothly, be sure to get it checked annually. FLR BEST of the

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Changing healthCare StandardS in regina

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hen you think of leading edge, customer service oriented healthcare, Mayfair Diagnostics should come to mind. This clinic opened its doors at the Regina Centre Crossing on November 2nd 2011. Mayfair Diagnostics’ mission is to provide the highest quality of diagnostic services, and is committed to providing unparalleled service value through constant innovation and investments in state-of-the-art technology that help deliver the safest and most efficient imaging results.

Mayfair Diagnostics helps physicians and their patients from start to finish - no step is overlooked. The company strives to help patients get in for their exams quickly, and have the reports back in the physicians’ hands promptly.

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makes certain this is done without sacrificing the quality of their reports; consequently Mayfair Diagnostics has implemented a peer review process throughout its clinic practice. This ensures the highest standards for image quality and diagnostic accuracy.

The radiologists at Mayfair Diagnostics are a team of experienced professionals and caring partners. After obtaining a medical degree, each physician takes multiple years of post-graduate education and training in radiology.

This group of doctors has subspecialty fellowship training from prestigious universities in North America and is trained in the fields of nuclear medicine, musculoskeletal, cardiothoracic, body imaging, women’s imaging, ER, pain therapy, neuroradiology, and interventional radiology. This comprehensive expertise ensures that your exams are interpreted by the

country’s leading specialists.

This diagnostic imaging company can be traced back to 1911, and is proudly providing service throughout Western Canada. Mayfair Diagnostics is proud to offer state-of-the-art medical imaging technology and specialized radiology services to the Regina community.

Customer service does not usually come to mind when speaking about healthcare, but Mayfair Diagnostics is working to change that. While still being part of the Saskatchewan healthcare system, Mayfair Diagnostics creates a completely different look and feel from traditional healthcare. This modern clinic is wide open with bright walls, and is designed to help patients relax and feel comfortable. The staff and radiologists are warm and welcoming.

They commit to giving everyone time and dedication from the moment they

step through the door. Our technologists are all specialty-trained and offer our patients the best attention, care and compassion during every visit. Mayfair Diagnostics is changing the standards on what good healthcare means.

Mayfair Diagnostics is part of the Saskatchewan healthcare system, and only your provincial healthcare card and exam requisition form is needed.

There is no out-of-pocket fee for any service. Mayfair Diagnostics offers

X-ray, mammography and ultrasound exams. Appointments are required for ultrasound and mammography; X-ray services are performed on a walkin, first-come, first-served basis. For expecting parents, Mayfair Diagnostics offers baby’s pictures free of charge, a keepsake that will be treasured.

When it comes to your health, trust Mayfair Diagnostics, Regina’s specialists in community diagnostic imaging. FLR

www.mayfairdiagnostics.com (306) 569-9729 Regina Centre Crossing #135, 1621 Albert Street 8:00am – 5:00pm Monday thru Friday

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Regina and Area

Retail marketplace

DIRECTORY

Madison Avenue Couture on Main Street!

Spring Cleaning Specialists

Wide selection of unique, affordable fashion to cover every woman head to toe: jeans, dresses, shoes, jackets, hats, scarves, jewellery, purses & more!

Residential cleaning, including windows, eavestroughs and awnings.

Pressure washing, caulking and construction clean-up. Fully insured, and out of town work welcome. Free estimates.

The Hibiscus Boutique 321 Main St. N. Moose Jaw, SK 306-693-9322 | Visit us on Facebook

Capital Window Cleaning 2805 Dewdney Avenue Regina (306) 529.9656

Oh! Baby!

The Connoisseur of all things Audio-Video

Kids Trading Company has all you need in high quality brand name clothing, shoes and accessories - from baby to teen and everything in between! Yogini, Appaman, StrideRite, Blu, Mexx, Billabong and more!

ON AV specializes in home automation and custom designed home entertainment systems. ON AV – sound advice, products and installation.

Kids Trading Company 4621 Rae Street Regina | (306) 586.1336 www.kidstradingcompany.ca

ON AV (306) 522-6628 onav.ca | Facebook: fb.me/onavinc |

World’s best omega-3

World Class Style and Comfort

At Ascenta we develop the highest quality and best tasting omega-3, respecting nature and building a better future.

Made in Canada. Available at OLD FASHION FOODS.

Our world class selection of functional yet fashionable footwear is comparable to no one. Style and comfort combined together in one store, your store.

Old Fashion Foods Ltd. 6 Convenient Locations To Serve You In Regina & Weyburn (306) 352-8623 | www.oldfashionfoods.com |

Soleman Footwear River View Plaza 3239 E Quance St. | (306) 924-2010 www.soleman.ca

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REGINA

Twitter: @onav_ca

Far Infrared Saunas at Factory Direct Pricing New and Used Vacuums – Sales and Service. Carpet shampooer rentals. Dynovac central vacuums, Singer sewing machines, Comfort furnace infrared heaters, Oreck air cleaners, Samsung & Panasonic vacuums.

Vacuum Master 306.543.7544 | 375 Broad Street Regina www.vacuumaster.ca

Style Speaks Volumes!

Say It Like You Mean It At TRINOS!

Trinos Menswear offers men’s business, formal and casual clothing with exceptional service. Trinos targets the man who needs value and provides service with a personal touch.

Trino’s Men’s Wear 2445 Quance Street (East Landing Mall) | (306) 522.4667 www.trinosmenswear.com | | @trinosmenswear

Unique Pedicure and Manicure Experiences

Stylish and Sophisticated Baskets

CoCo Nail Lounge is an unique experience where time doesn’t compromise quality. Our pedicure and manicure lounge facilitates large groups or a service just for you!

Custom gifts and gift baskets for all occasions with full delivery service. Professionally assembled gifts, no fuss and ready to give.

Gift ideas perfect for office sharing.

CoCo Nail Lounge 3424 hill ave | (306) 757-2626 www.coconaillounge.com | contact@coconaillounge.com

Two Blonds and a Brunette Gift Co. (306) 533.7221 www.twobandb.com

We Make Learning FUN!

We carry educational toys and games, resource and homework books, classroom decorations and resources for exceptional children.

Come visit Saskatchewan’s largest teaching aids outlet for parents and teachers.

Home & School Connection 911 Albert St, Regina, SK (306) 585-3276

Whatever You Ride, We’ve Got You Covered!

A clothing shop for every rider. Exclusive brands like Milwaukee, First Manufacturing, Joe Rocket, Rubber Side Down, Zox, Shoei, Lucky 13 Apparel, Hot Leathers, Zan and many more.

Riders Gear Shop 1455 Rose Street Regina | 306.352-8623 www.ridersgearshop.com | ridersgearshop@sasktel.net

FineLifestyles

REGINA

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Regina and Area

Retail marketplace

DIRECTORY

Sewing and Quilting Specialists 3600 sq ft of fabric. Scrapbooking, Cosmo hand & quilting embroidery thread, Rowan yarn. Classroom/Fabric Arts area.

Brother, Bernina & Handi Quilter machines. Long Arm rental, Kwik sew patterns. Special orders welcome.

For Kids Who Are Going Places!

OneStopKidShop.com - an online resource for anyone with kids in their lives. Information on activities, birthdays, childcare, camps and more! OSKS helps bring awareness to your program and/or service.

Cindy-rella’s Sewing and Quilting 3847 Sherwood Drive Regina | (306) 529.9656 cindy@sewcindy-rella.com | www.sewcindy-rella.com |

OneStopKidShop.com contact@onestopkidshop.com | (306) 529-6965 onestopkidshop.com

Naturally Handmade Body Care

Beating Box Store Prices is Easy

Over 400 different lotions, bath bombs, body scrubs, handmade soaps and more, natural & paraben free. Gift baskets, parties, fundraising options...Proudly Made in Regina.

Custom home theatre and multi zone audio design and installation; home and commercial installation; service and repair.

Bath Goddess 2739 Quance St & 3959 Rochdale Blvd Regina | 306.949.BATH www.bathgoddess.com | |

Radio Centre Consumer Electronics 2100A Dewdney Avenue Regina | 306.352.3030 www.radiocentre.ca

Special Offers from Fabutan Mention this ad to get 25% more minutes or Mystic HD - buy one get one half off some conditions apply.

Fabutan 184 University Park Dr. (306) 585-8826 4534 Albert St. (306) 352-8826 | 6238 Rochdale Blvd. (306) 721-8826 www.fabutan.com | |

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FineLifestyles

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Wal Mart

Prince of Wales Dr.

London Drugs

Coleman St.

Victoria Ave. Super Store

Quance St. Our Office

N

• New patients welcome • Emergency services available • General Dentistry including: orthodontics and prosthodontics (not by a specialist)

Dr. Greg Konotopetz Dr. Kim Neudorf

3291 Quance St. E. | Regina, Sk. | 306-584-2833 | toll free: 866-584-2833 email: info@signaturesmiles.ca

www.signaturesmiles.ca

Build your Dream with

SPRING GREEN HOMES in Harbour Landing New Porchscape Development Building Fall 2012

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CAMPLING AVENUE 24 25

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ALBULET DRIVE

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ENVIRONMENTAL RESERVE

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AERODROME ROAD

SHERIDAN STREET

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JAMES HILL ROAD

AERODROME ROAD 20 19 18 17 42 16 15 14 13 12 11 10

ENVIRONMENTAL RESERVE DRIVEWAY LOCATION

SASKPOWER PEDESTAL

WROUGHT IRON STYLE FENCE

SASKTEL PEDESTAL

WOOD FENCE

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT MUNICIPAL RESERVE

SASKPOWER TRANSFORMER

SUBDIVISION FENCING

EXISTING DEVELOPMENT (FOR SALE)

12.8

FRONTAGE AT 6.0m SETBACK

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FRONTAGE AT 18.0m SETBACK

SASKTEL VAULT CATV PEDESTAL MAILBOX

CIVIC ADDRESS LIGHT STANDARD

REAR CATCH BASIN WITH EASEMENT B

BUS STOP

FIRE HYDRANT

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There’s a lot you see – and don’t see – in our homes that make them simply better built. We invest in your peace of mind and comfort through quality workmanship and above average materials. We can build your Energy Star™ home in about four to six months, so you can enjoy it much sooner.

Think: Unique. Affordable. Quality. That’s your Spring Green Home. Contact us now to find out more.

Call us at 306-719-1444 or email us at info@springgreenhomes.ca

LEGEND EXISTING DEVELOPMENT (SOLD)

Enjoy old-world beauty and charm of a welcoming street front with garages hidden at the back or incorporated into an aesthetically pleasing front elevation; offering extensive park spaces, walking paths and more - it’s truly a place to call home.

Build with the Best.

FAIRCHILD PARK POTENTIAL SCHOOL SITE

SPRING GREEN HOMES

is launching its line of Frank Lloyd Wright inspired prairie homes in Harbour Landing in Regina. Get back to nature, right out your front door!

JULY 4, 2012