Faces Magazine – Issue 85 May/June (Back)

Createyourworld

NORTHWOODS IN KANATA

Come home to Northwoods, a picturesque neighbourhood inviting you to embrace a lifestyle enriched by the perfect balance of indoor and outdoor amenities, including nearby nature escapes, local retail and the Canadian Tire Centre nearby. Embrace Kanata’s beauty and relaxing pace from your choice of Village Homes, Townhomes and Detached Homes, available in a variety of floorplans, Design Studio finishes and exclusive Architect’s Choice Options.

Your new chapter starts right here in Northwoods by Mattamy Homes, offering you the canvas to create your world, the space to lay down roots and the opportunity to settle into the life you’ve envisioned.

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ISSUE IN THIS

14

ANGIE POIRIER & STUNTMAN STU

Ottawa Morning Radio

Hosts Ready to Embrace

The Next Chapter.

Page 14

22

RACHEL HOMAN

Ottawa’s Rachel Homan has just completed one of the greatest, most dominant seasons in women’s curling history. Page 22

38

STRATFORD-FOX RUN DISTILLERY & LOUNGE

Master distiller Adam Brierley shares the story of Kanata’s newest craft distillery and cocktail lounge. Page 40

30

SOLANGE TUYISHIME

Today, Ottawa’s Solange Tuyishime is the President of Elevate International, but she has worn many hats and crowns. Page 30

56

CHRIS ALLARD

44

MATHEW PULICKAL

Mathew Pulickal, the hardworking visionary behind the Ottawa Physiotherapy & Sport Clinics, has built a franchise of nine clinics across Ottawa. Page 44

Chris Allard, founder of the highly recognized Chris Allard Mortgage Team, shares how he’s built an award-winning mortgage broker team in his hometown city. Page 56

FIND FACES

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CONTRIBUTORS

Steve Warne

Dan Lalande

Maggie McCleary

Orion Taylor

Morgan Sampson

Alex Feeney

Jordan Palleck

Courtney Wheeler

Corey Stone

Christopher Lord

Molly Burke

Garry Thom

Mark Steele

Ryan Bova

Eric MacIsaac

Kenzie Murphy

Jamie Brown

Robert Smith

Kate Wright

Meaghan Vincent

Guillaume Dubois

Connor Khonick

Todd Hamilton

Marc Paul

Lindsay Risto

Morris Miller

Hugo Tremblay

Chris Tanouye

John E. Sokolowski

Jana Chytilova

David Maman

Andre Ringuette

Connor Armstrong

Taylor Condon

Peter Wright

Yana Klaiz

J une

Where To Go In

May 31–June 4:

Ribfest on Sparks Street

01-02

June 1–2:

Doors Open Ottawa

On the first weekend in June, Doors Open Ottawa is celebrating their 21st anniversary. They’re inviting residents and visitors alike to visit some of the city’s most astonishing buildings.

08

June 8:

PBR Canada Cup Series

Canadian Tire Centre

For the first time in over 6 years the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Canada’s elite-cup world series is hosting the PBR Ottawa Classic.

June 8:

Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards Gala

08-09

June 8–9:

Ottawa Pet Expo

June 8–9:

Art in The Park

Central Park in the Glebe

05–16

June 5–16:

Italian Week Ottawa

Immerse yourself in Italian Culture in our own Local Little Italy

June 14–16:

FCA Ottawa Ferrari Festival

The 17th Annual FCA Ottawa Ferrari Festival held on a weekend in June in conjunction with Ottawa’s Italian Festival hosts a spectacle of Ferraris and all things Italian.

Surfaces For Life

Poirier &

Angie

Stuntman Stu

From Airwaves to New Beginnings: Ottawa Morning Radio Hosts Ready to Embrace The Next Chapter

By Steve Warne | Photography by Kerbens Boisette

For the past 13 years, Angie Poirier and “Stuntman” Stu Schwartz have been the soundtrack to countless morning routines in Ottawa, bringing great tunes and fun to a dedicated audience on Move 100 radio, formerly Majic 100.

But everything changed on February 13th, which just happened to be World Radio Day. Like hundreds of radio people before them, Angie, Stu, and their co-host, Janel Steeper, received the disappointing news from Bell Media that their services at 87 George Street were no longer required.

But just as it was every weekday morning when their alarm clocks shockingly went off at 4 am, there were no complaints or malice – just excitement for what lies ahead. And, of course, the popular hosts take with them a lifetime’s worth of great radio memories, with their listeners there for every step of the ride.

Faces recently caught up with Angie and Stuntman Stu to discuss their time on Ottawa morning radio, their best memories, and what’s next for them.

FACES: DID YOU TWO KNOW EACH OTHER BEFORE YOU STARTED WORKING TOGETHER ON THE MORNING SHOW?

STU: Very early on in our careers, when Angie was a copywriter for the New RO, she would get me to voice TV commercials she wrote,” Schwartz said.” We also worked together on the game day team for the Ottawa Rebel pro lacrosse team. Our paths have crossed so many times, I think it was always in the cards for us – we just had to wait for the perfect opportunity to present itself, and it eventually did.”

WAS THERE AN INSTANT ON-AIR CHEMISTRY, OR DID IT TAKE SOME TIME?

ANGIE: We had a history of working together, so the chemistry was already there. I was new to the radio side of broadcasting, so I followed Stu’s lead. The early days were exciting and scary but so darn fun! Our relationship and friendship grew even more and evolved into a brother/sister-like sparring and banter that the audience seemed to really enjoy. Since then, our families grew close, and even our kids have become great friends.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE

BEST ABOUT YOUR CO-HOST?

ANGIE: Definitely, what you see is what you get with Stu. He unapologetically doesn’t try to be anyone else but himself. It’s hard to find that type of authenticity these days. He is very generous and loyal. He is sometimes funny, but I don’t tell him that cause it just goes to his head.

STU: She gets me. She’s patient with me. She’s always in my corner. You build this inseparable bond when you spend that much time with someone Monday to Friday. And I was so lucky that I found a genuine friend who I thought of as a sister to work side by side with me over the last 13 years.

“What you see is what you get with Stu. He unapologetically doesn’t try to be anyone else but himself. It’s hard to find that type of authenticity these days.”

– Angie Poirier

“I was so lucky that I found a genuine friend who I thought of as a sister to work side by side with me over the last 13 years.”

– Stuntman Stu

WHAT’S YOUR PET PEEVE ABOUT YOUR CO-HOST?

ANGIE: My biggest pet peeve is his terrible food takes and how he villainizes people for liking pineapple on pizza or ketchup on hotdogs. He also thinks Cheetos are better than Hawkins Cheezies, which is obviously incorrect, so that bugs me.

STU: She is SUPER competitive. She is also a Gemini like me, and when we played radio games like Word Warz – she was in it to win every single time. Also, she’s terrible with directions. Like lost-in-acircle-terrible with directions. Needless to say, I always did the driving when we were heading out together.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE OR FUNNIEST MEMORY FROM YOUR TIME ON THE SHOW?

ANGIE: I used to love the Facetime lives we would do during our live morning show. People would jump on and dare us or challenge us to do certain things. One day, Stu got up on the shelving unit in the studio, like it was a bar, dancing to Good Vibrations by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. Mid-dance, he fell off the shelving unit and hurt himself pretty good. He limped around for a week. Worth it.

WHAT’S THE REACTION AND SUPPORT BEEN LIKE FROM YOUR LISTENERS?

STU: The support has been overwhelming. This city has been so good to us, and I will always be thankful for that. Our listeners were amazing, and I am glad they grew with us over the 13 years we did the show.

I received thousands of messages in the last month on my social media platforms. People shared their words of support and memories that they have had of me and Angie – none of it went unnoticed.

YOU’VE HAD TIME TO PROCESS THINGS. HOW ARE YOU FEELING ABOUT THE FUTURE?

STU: Right now, I’m enjoying driving my kids around when they need me and just being home and sleeping in. I missed out on a lot with my kids over the years because I was always so busy with work. So, I hope to make up for some of those moments now that I have the chance. Everything happens for a reason, so I remain optimistic and look forward to embracing opportunities that come my way.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU GUYS?

ANGIE: Carving out a 2.0. Exploring new avenues and possibilities. I do know that continuing to connect with and support the city and community I love will always be at the top of my list of things to do.

STU: According to my wife – learning how to properly do the laundry.

THE LATEST

Here’s What’s New In The World of Surprising Finds

01

A New Look At Greater Northeast Corridor

In April, US Congressman Seth Moulton shared a new map of what the Canada-US high speed rail network, initially proposed in 2020, would look like, including the Greater Northeast Corridor, connecting Toronto, Montreal, Detroit, New York City and Washington. The recently introduced American High-Speed Rail Act wants to allocate $205 Billion towards the project, and invites Canada to participate. Reactions to Moulton’s proposal have been largely positive, with many highlighting the convenience and economic benefits such a network could bring.

02

Queen’s University will offer a Taylor Swift Law Course

Queens U will offer the “Law (Taylor’s Version)” course this fall, focusing on entertainment law using Swift’s career as a case study. The course will delve into various legal areas such as contracts, trademarks, and copyright, using Swift’s experiences to illuminate these principles. Swift’s legal battles, including a copyright lawsuit over her song “Shake It Off” and her re-recording of albums after disputes with her former record label, will make for engaging study material.

Ottawa Is One Of The Best Canadian Cities To Retire In

A report released by Sotheby’s International Realty in March named 10 Canadian cities as the best to retire in. The ranking cited Ottawa as a top choice because of its scenic parks, vibrant culture and host of museums, galleries and entertainment venues. Because of Ottawa’s ideal mix of urban areas and historic charm, and its concentration of top-ranking healthcare facilities, the Capital is a perfect place for retirees. The only other Ontario city on the list is Niagara-On-The-Lake.

Photography by Anil Mungal and Shane Wilkie

The Homan Empire: Ottawa’s

HOMAN RACHEL HOMAN

Conquers The World (Again)

Ottawa’s Rachel Homan has just completed one of the greatest, most dominant seasons in women’s curling history. And for someone with her already spectacular curling resume, that’s an impressive achievement. Along with teammates Tracy Fleury, Emma Miskew, and Sarah Wilkes, Team Homan’s 2024 season included going undefeated at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, which was the best part of their tidy 39-1 record against Canadian teams.

Their overall win-loss record was an unheard-of 67-7, which included a beautiful moment back in March in Sydney, Nova Scotia. That’s when Homan’s rink capped off their year of dominance, winning the World Women’s Curling Championship. It was the second World title of Homan’s career, ending Canada’s six-year drought, and halting Switzerland’s four-year reign as World Champions.

So, with her historically great 2023-24 curling season now in the books, what will Homan do for an encore next season?

“Yeah, I don’t think you’re going to wind up another season with seven losses. I mean, it’d be great to have another season like that. Obviously, I wouldn’t complain,” Homan told FACES with a chuckle.

Homan, who was also a prolific junior player for Canada, says it was definitely the best season she’s ever had on the women’s side. But winning her second World Championship was much different than her first seven years ago in Beijing. This one came on Canadian soil with a new team and a new young family.

“It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to get back to Worlds,” Homan said. “I’ve had three kids in between and been to two Olympics. There’s definitely a gap of quite a few years there. We didn’t perform as well as we wanted to at nationals. We had some team changes and some rebuilding years. That takes time..

Also, being pregnant for three of those years and the recovery, that takes time. We’ve been through so much and had so much growth.

Being able to share this year, this national title, and the world gold with my family just meant that much more.”

Homan’s husband is former pro hockey player Shawn Germain, who played five seasons in the ECHL. They’re a busy couple these days, living in Beaumont, Alberta, with three kids under five: Ryatt (4), Bowynn (3), and Briggs (7 months).

And Ryatt is old enough now to see that Mom is kind of a big deal.

“My son’s kind of getting his head around it a little bit. He’s going to be five in June, and some things are eye-opening to him. He realizes that the whole arena is cheering for his mom. It’s pretty cool to be a part of and I hope they have those memories. But even if they don’t, I have those memories with them, and that’s something I’ll never forget.”

Photo by Lintao Zhang

As dominant as Homan’s new team was this season, it took some time to round into World Championship form. In 2020, Sarah Wilkes was added to the team, replacing Lisa Weagle. Then, in 2022, Joanne Courtney stepped away from the sport, making way for long-time skip Tracy Fleury, who rounded out Team Homan as we know it today.

With Fleury being an elite skip in her own right, one of the transitional issues in their first season together was figuring out who would throw last.

“It took some time to figure out what we should do,” Homan said. “We tried out a few things, and it seemed like me being in the house and throwing last was going really well and was really successful. So we kept with that lineup and we all just kind of dove into our positions. I think over the last two years, we’ve gotten to the place where we feel really comfortable. We’re all supporting each other and just kind of each other’s cheerleaders.”

Homan says Emma Miskew, who’s been her friend and teammate since they were kids growing up in Ottawa, is “basically like her sister at this point.”

“I’ve known her longer than I’ve known almost everyone,” Homan said. “And it’s really special that we’re able to meet at five years old. And then life can throw so many things at you and change your course of direction, change your goals, and your vision for the future.

“And every time, we kept growing and changing together, and choosing to work at the game. We keep moving forward, keep setting new goals for each other, and keep pushing each other. And to remain such good friends off the ice, it’s been awesome that we could maintain the same outlook for curling as well. I think it’s pretty special and unheard of.

Hurry Hard: Five Rapid Fire Questions for TwoTime World Curling Champion Rachel Homan

Who got you into curling, and did you like it at first?

Probably my parents. My grandfather curled and my great grandfather curled. My parents did for a little bit, but my brother, Mark, played with John Morris and I remember going on the rink and watching them compete. I watched them on TV at their junior nationals. I always looked up to my brother, who was ten years older than me, and that kind of inspired me to look at curling competitively.

What would be your idea of a perfect day?

Probably camping in the mountains with a bunch of friends, or going on a boat, wake surfing, and fishing. It’s nice to be out in Alberta. We live by the mountains, and there’s just something about fresh mountain air. So going out with friends and just enjoying the outdoors would for sure be my perfect day with the kids all running around. There’s definitely nothing better than that.

What do you and your teammates do for fun between games at an event?

It depends on where we are. Sometimes, we’re limited on the road. In Regina, there’s an escape room in the hotel, so we did that. In Toronto, we all went to the Blue Jays home opener. And at the last Scottie’s, there was a trampoline park so I took my kids there.

What do you miss about Ottawa?

Oh, lots. I miss everything about Ottawa – the weather, the people, my friends and family. I grew up in Ottawa and just going to watch the Senators play and the concerts there, the food and restaurants in Ottawa. There’s nothing better, in my biased opinion.

I’m coming back in June, and I’ll be able to see some friends and family and celebrate a little bit. If there’s ever a chance for us to move back, I for sure would. But we’re in Alberta right now with jobs and things like that. And we’ve met some awesome people out here, too. We have a great little community out here, and I’m really thankful for that.

Photography by Anil Mungal and Shane Wilkie

Trailblazers

2 Exceptional Career Stories from Ottawa’s Own

Sharbot Lake Maple Syrup Steals Joe Rogan Spotlight

A small town maple syrup farm received a surprising shoutout from local celebrity Tom Green on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast in late March, catapulting them into the global spotlight. Conboy Maple Syrup, a family-owned business with 145 years of heritage, saw a flurry of interest from around the world after Green praised their syrup’s freshness and quality. With an early start to the sugaring season, they’re busy crafting batches of their renowned syrup for pancake lovers everywhere.

Shane Scatliffe Excellence in Group Fitness

Shane Scatliffe is one of Ottawa’s most energetic fitness instructors, recently recognized at the GoodLife Fitness Awards Gala during the CANFIT Pro 2023 Conference. As a Zumba instructor, Shane creates empowering and judgement-free environments for participants of all ages and fitness levels. When she’s not teaching at GoodLife, Shane volunteers her time teaching Zumba in high schools, promoting the importance of strength and confidence to young women. Shane’s impact resonates not only within her classes but also in the broader fitness community, earning her accolades such as inclusion in the GoodLife Top 10 and voluntary roles in Zumba® Community Leadership positions.

Image retrieved from Instagram | @tomgreen

SOLANGE TUYISHIME

ELEVATING WOMEN, GIRLS AND THE WORLD

By Dan Lalande

“She has given a voice to those who often feel they don’t have one. She has inspired and advocated for women’s rights and empowerment around the world. Her ability to find positives and hope in some of the most difficult times should serve as inspiration to all of us.”

Those are the words of Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, who, in 2023, perfectly encapsulated the life purpose, tangible impact, and attitudinal fortitude that define Solange Tuyishime. It’s a long way from the genocidal madness of East Africa to the Order of Ottawa presentations in our placid nation’s capital. In accepting that award from Sutcliffe—to go along with her 2022 Business Innovation Champion of the Year Award, her “40 Under 40” designation, and her dual titles in Miss and Mrs. World Canada International competitions—the gatekeepers of Tuyishime’s second home officially recognized the spiritual determination by which she remade her life, and her ongoing mission to help remake those of others.

That all-consuming mandate is carried out through Elevate International, of which she is President and CEO. The organization’s purpose is to inspire world leaders to adopt a humane agenda that includes a constructive commitment to gender quality. It’s a cause furthered by Tuyishime’s role as Canada’s Ambassador for UNICEF, where again she advocates for the empowerment of women and girls. She is also the founder of Naylah’s Legacy, a non-profit organization set up in memory of her daughter, which assists premature babies and their mothers.

After years in the bare-bones bardo of refugee camps, Tuyishime arrived in Canada at the age of thirteen. Her first step on the path to international advocacy was an influential volunteer position at the Multicultural Association of Fredericton, N.B. and that city’s YMCA.

“I was drawn to their mission of empowering youth and building stronger communities,” she reflects. “I saw firsthand the impact that these organizations had on the lives of young people, how they provided a lifeline in times of need, how they instilled hope and resilience in the face of adversity. I knew that this was where I belonged.” From there, the poetic, polemic Tuyishime went on to earn degrees in journalism and public administration. “That way,” she explains, “I could facilitate change with both words and action.”

We’re building a world where women’s voices are heard, their talents are valued, and their leadership is celebrated

Elevate International has established a range of initiatives that have created pathways for gender equality. Its Champions Program pairs aspiring female leaders with senior executives from a variety of sectors, who provide guidance, support, and other opportunities for professional growth. For the succeeding generation, there’s the Elevate Girls Leadership Program, whose workshops and activities provide tomorrow’s women with the skills, confidence, and support they need to excel in school, careers, and life. Both programs share a common goal: “We’re building a world where women’s voices are heard, their talents are valued, and their leadership is celebrated,” announces Tuyishime.

Tuyishime is equally devoted to the rights of the younger set. Her work with UNICEF has brought her to Jamaica and Haiti, where she witnessed the transformative impact of UNICEF’s interventions in the lives of youth firsthand. “I saw how programs aimed at removing youths from the streets and creating after-school programs and safe spaces provided them with the support, guidance, and opportunities they needed to thrive,” she recounts. “These initiatives not only kept them away from danger but also empowered them to connect, learn, and envision a brighter future.”

Haiti proved an even more personal experience, echoing her war-torn background and the disposition she assumed to overcome it. “Amid adversity and hardship, I found hope as I connected and conversed with youths in schools. Despite their challenging circumstances, they harbored great dreams and a vision for a brighter future. It was a poignant reminder of the resilience and optimism that exists within every child, regardless of their circumstances.”

Like Tuyishime, the children of Haiti refused to be defined by their sociopolitical lot. They subscribed to a fundamental resilience, optimism, and vision for the future that, according to kindred spirit Tuyishime, is the admixture required to convert “destiny” to “possibility.”

Going forward, Tuyishime will continue to fight for gender equality, education, healthcare, and environmental protectionism—the enemies of the socially responsible egalitarianism she has found in Canada. As she puts it with her usual lucidity and eloquence, “By working together and addressing the underlying causes of inequality and vulnerability, we can create a world where women and children can live healthy, safe, and empowered lives. This will require collective action, political will, and sustained commitment, but the benefits will be immense for generations to come.”

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Spaces We Love

Spaces That Inspire Us Through Distinctive Design

FRATELLI KANATA

This contemporary Italian eatery in Kanata is known for blending retro-inspired nostalgic themes with elegant finishes, for an inviting but upscale atmosphere that feels familiar.

SKYE STUDIO

This bright and contemporary studio space on St. Laurent seamlessly brings to life a minimalist, earthy aesthetic in an industrial style setting. Skye Studio is a creative space available for rent for photo, video, and fashion projects, with three distinct designer studio spaces filled with natural light.

Experience A Spirited

BY DAN LALANDE PHOTOGRAPHY BY NAME HERE

Whiskey, gin, vodka, and liqueurs.

These are the specialties of master distiller Adam Brierley, whose watchful eye converts the bounteous grain crops of the Ottawa Valley into the smoothest small-batch, handcrafted spirits recreational and refined drinkers from Kanata and the core have ever tasted.

SFR Distillery & Cocktail Lounge

rierley’s domain is the SFR Distillery and Lounge, an intimate, speakeasy-style venue that is both inviting and exotic.

There, at 23-767 Silver Seven Rd., both the connoisseurs and the curious settle in to sample the impressively diverse range of meticulously fashioned spirits, every one of them professionally processed on-site. Fermentation, distillation, and bottling are all performed in-house, adding a personal touch to intimate gatherings, corporate functions, or familial celebrations for up to forty-five guests in their intimate 1,700 sq. foot venue.

Small wonder that SFR, aside from being the largest distillery in the City of Ottawa, is also one of the most recognized - winning over a dozen medals at Canadian and International events in the last two years.

SFR’s product line includes such savory, subtle offerings as its fiery chili liqueur, its light, buttery vodka, its bright, citrusy gin, and its foxy, chocolate-orange whiskey. Then, there’s Brierley’s personal pick: his Ogham Original Moonshine. A legacy drink from the original distillery Brierley started in Kanata, it was also the first spirit produced using SFR’s new equipment. A modern twist on a traditional recipe, Brierley calls the creation “an excellent bridge between the old and the new.”

In case you’re wondering about the origins of “Ogham,” it means “Alphabet.” In the original Irish alphabet, each character was named after a different tree that grew on the island. Similarly inspired by his natural surroundings—in this case, the robust grain and other ingredients of the verdant Ottawa Valley—Brierley pays homage to the practice by acknowledging it in many of his recipes.

It’s a gesture as charmingly unconventional as his distillery—not to mention the equally offbeat route he took to get here. With his family roots in Perth, Ontario, Brierley attended Carleton University and worked as a professional engineer for a decade until the nagging notion to try his hand as a Distiller claimed him entirely. Training in both Canada and the US, Brierley opened the doors to the distillery now known as SFR in 2021.

Below, Master Distiller Adam Brierley’s line of locally-inspired spirits.

he SFR Group group has an ethos of adventure, reconnecting the human soul to nature and exploring the world around us, offering a unique experience for all by providing the best equestrian, adventure, and relaxation lifestyle services. The group of companies diversified its portfolio of lifestyle offerings in 2023, when the company acquired and renovated a longstanding distillery 28 kilometers to the north of its home base in North Gower. The former storefront was classily converted into Kanata’s premier cocktail destination.

As for its star distiller, using a perfectly fitting equestrian analogy, he admits, “It’s been quite the ride!”

FR is in the process of a significant, and necessary, expansion. It’s taking on new team members, who will help to develop and serve an exciting array of innovative recipes. A signature whiskey is being aged on-site, and will be available in a few years; a milestone that SFR is anticipating by releasing a special potable each year between now and the big ribbon cutting. By that time, a second location will have opened.

The addition of an ancillary venue will enable SFR to accommodate larger private bookings. SFR regularly works with celebrants of all kinds, from corporation and community organizations to families and couples, personally tailored to the nature of the occasion. The accommodating SFR staff is as adept at mixing people as it is at mixing drinks.

Lucky locals and those from across the greater Ottawa area are treated to a steady flow of new cocktails and menu items continually innovated by SFR’s personable bartender, Rachel. She’ll happily help you and your party enjoy the growing list of delectable cocktails that the Lounge has to offer—barring that, she’d be just as enthusiastic to create a custom cocktail from scratch.

After all, at SFR, that’s what they do.

Spring Cocktails

Aegean Sour

This sour features Mastiha, a Greek liqueur made from the resin of the Mastic tree, native to the Greek island of Chios. Combined with thyme, one of the most popular herbs in Greece, and blue spirulina, it helps create the vivid blues of the Aegean Sea.

1 ½ oz @mataroagin

½ oz @skinos_mastiha_spirit

½ thyme syrup

¾ oz lemon juice

1 tsp @spirainc blue spirulina add to shaker + dry shake add ice + shake again double-strain into a chilled coupe

garnish: edible flowers

Le Violet

Over the years, the guys over at Bitter Sweet Spirit have made this cocktail for hundreds of people and it’s understandably gone by many names: “Le Purple”, “Peuple”, “That Purple Drink”. Whatever its been called, it’s always been a smash hit. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also sweet, refreshing, and ideal for the remaining days of the summer.

1 oz @titosvodka

½ oz @giffardcanada Crème

de Violette

½ oz @stgermaindrinks

½ oz lemon juice

add ingredients to shaker + shake strain into Collins glass top with @fevertreecanada Club Soda

garnish: lavender sprig

Bitter Sweet Spirit is a group of Ottawa bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts with a passion for creating and sharing great recipes with friends. Here’s four of their must-try cocktails for winter.

Rhubarb Rhosa

Ah rhubarb. The unsung hero of nondessert dishes. And in this case, drinks. Giffard’s rhubarb liqueur provides such a unique flavour that results in a bitter cocktail that’s as refreshing as anything you’ll have all summer.

1 oz gin

1 oz @cocchi1891 Rosa

¾ oz @giffardcanada Rhubarb Liqueur add to shaker + shake strain into Collins glass top with club soda

Sage Collins

This is one of the most popular recipes over at Bitter Sweet Spirit. It’s a simple, refreshing, and unique twist on a classic Tom Collins that is guaranteed to be a huge hit with guests!

- Cocktail1 ½ oz @thebotanistgin

1 oz sage syrup

¾ oz lemon juice

add to a shaker with ice + shake strain into Collins glass top with @fevertreecanada Club Soda garnish: sage leaf

- Sage Syrup1 cup water

1 cup sugar

1 cup sage leaves

add to pot over medium heat + stir at the first hint of a boil, remove from heat let cool + strain into glass bottle refrigerate

Mathew Pulickal

of the Ottawa Physiotherapy & Sport Clinics: a New Level of Care

“I wanted to bring a new level of care to Ottawa and make it accessible to anyone, not just elite athletes. I wanted to establish clinics promoting good, research-backed rationales and positive outcomesa unique culture that would make us different.”

Using the energy, focus, and tenacity that once made him a national-level sprinter, Mathew Pulickal, the hard-working visionary behind the Ottawa Physiotherapy & Sport Clinics franchise, has accomplished just that. Today, his nine (and counting) clinics, which span the city from the suburbs to the core, enjoy a professional and atmospheric distinction among Ottawa’s crowded physiotherapy landscape.

Pulickal’s success is predicated on two things: the diversity of his clinic’s services and the carefully cultivated culture in which they’re offered. In addition to offering all of the standard physio treatments,

each facility specializes in other unique, therapeutic approaches such as aqua therapy, custom knee bracing, dietician services, dizziness and vertigo therapies, ergonomic assessments, treatment-related yoga instruction, and more.

But where the franchise truly excels is in its leading-edge provision of manual and manipulative therapy. This advanced form of training is highly specialized, limited to Fellows of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy (FCAMPT). It allows these highly skilled practitioners, of which Pulickal’s clinics can boast ten out of a mere one thousand in the entire country, to help clients achieve better results, recover faster, and stay healthier; a remarkable route to recovery.

The clinics’ other specialty is Intramuscular Stimulation, known most commonly as IMS. IMS is a total system for the diagnosis and

BY DAN LALANDE PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLAI GREGORY

treatment of myofascial pain syndromes, chronic conditions that occur in the musculoskeletal system when there is no obvious sign of injury or inflammation. And again, while qualified practitioners are few, Pulickal takes pride in having a healthy percentage.

Before opening his first private clinic in 2008, Pulickal had worked primarily with athletes. He was a seminal force at such high-profile events as the World Triathlon Championships, the World Track and Field Championships, the Summer Olympics, and the Pan American Games. He’s also served the CFL, the NHL, World Cup Soccer (FIFA), and every Canadian interuniversity organization you can name. While he thoroughly enjoyed the experience of helping competitors achieve their goals, he began to develop ideas of his own: “I started to wonder why this type of attention and resources couldn’t be applied to anyone who needed it, not just those in a competitive situation,” he reflects.

Inspired by his work, Pulickal set up a modest, three-bed facility in a small commercial hub in Barrhaven. From there, he was determined to expand into a franchise, one in which each clinic would offer an atmosphere as distinctive as some of its services. “I’m a firm believer

in the positive impact of a supportive and collaborative organizational culture,” he maintains. “It’s important to create an environment where both the staff and the clients can feel relaxed and where there is a strong element of being a part of something together.”

The clinic’s culture is rooted in the dedication of Pulickal’s staff, who receive equal attention and care as his clients do. Each employee is afforded a variety of learning opportunities, fostering a creative, inclusive and empowering work environment. These learning opportunities include roadmaps to inner-clinic leadership roles, access to career resources and other learning tools, and frequent, open communications that provide timely, constructive

“Whether it’s helping someone achieve a new personal best, guiding them through a challenging recovery, or simply being a supportive and encouraging presence, knowing that I’ve made a positive difference is incredibly gratifying.”

feedback. The result is a sense of professional and personal belonging based on transparency, trust, and mutual respect.

“Establishing this culture has brought together a team of strong and resilient leaders that have enabled me to grow my business,” Pulickal explains. The clinics also enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship with the University of Ottawa’s student placement and mentorship program, another manifestation of Pulickal’s dedication to guidance.

And while leading by example has earned Pulickal a number of awards, the true reward lies in the rehabilitation of his patients. The business’ core values— caring, integrity, community, dedication, and family—create a supportive and inclusive environment where patients receive high-quality care while feeling valued and respected throughout their rehabilitation journey.

The newest clinic opened in Manor Park in February. “It’s going so well,” Pulickal beams, “it’s motivating me to go after clinic #10 and hit those double digits!” But that dream might have to wait. Right now, Pulickal is enjoying some hard-earned “me time.”

The Orleans-based entrepreneur remains devoted to spending more time with his wife and four children. Then, there are his aging parents, the Indian immigrants who taught him the values of risk-taking, hard work, and above all else, gratitude.

“Whether it’s helping someone achieve a new personal best, guiding them through a challenging recovery, or simply being a supportive and encouraging presence, knowing that I’ve made a positive difference is incredibly gratifying,” Pulickal confesses. “Seeing our clients grow, improve, and achieve their goals is a testament to the value of our work.”

Spring’s Trending Hair Looks

Short Bob:

The short bob is staging a triumphant return, offering a timeless yet contemporary option for those seeking a change. Whether you opt for a sleek, refined bob or a more textured, tousled variation, this versatile cut is effortlessly chic and perfect for warmer weather. Its lowmaintenance appeal makes it a go-to choice for those looking to shed winter weight and welcome a lighter, carefree aesthetic.

With spring in full swing, it’s time to embrace fresh beginnings and revitalize your look with the latest hair trends. Here are three standout styles that are making waves this season:

Birkin Bangs:

Channeling the effortless elegance of 1960s icon Jane Birkin, Birkin bangs are all about soft, wispy fringe that frames the face with a romantic allure. This style exudes a sense of vintage charm while remaining decidedly modern. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, Birkin bangs can be tailored to suit your individual style, offering versatility and sophistication in equal measure.

Embrace these trends to usher in the season with style and confidence. Whether you’re rocking a short bob, sporting Birkin bangs, or experimenting with chunky highlights, these standout styles are guaranteed to keep you looking chic and on-trend all spring long.

Chunky Highlights:

Bid farewell to subtle, understated highlights and say hello to chunky, statement-making color. From caramel to platinum to pastel hues, the options are endless, allowing for creativity and personal expression. Whether you opt for face-framing highlights to brighten your complexion or experiment with bold, contrasting colors for a daring effect, chunky highlights are a surefire way to inject excitement and vibrancy into your look.

First Choice Haircutters has over 25 locations in Ottawa providing affordable hair cuts, styles and colour services with trained and experienced professionals, with no appointment required. Find a location near you at www.firstchoice.com.

HAIR CUTS & STYLES TO FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE

26 Locations Across Ottawa

First Choice Haircutters is your locally owned and operated hair salon where you can feel safe and comfortable each and every visit. Our stylists are extensively trained so you know you’ll receive a great haircut that fits your style and your lifestyle. We offer fullservice hair care and products for the entire family with no need for checkins. See you in the salon soon!

Find affordable haircare for the whole family at your neighbourhood First Choice Haircutters.

SUMMER

SPIRITS

Gewürztraminer, River House Vinyard & Winery

An aromatic wine with hints of rose and tropical fruits, this bright and floral wine is heady, blossomy, and reminiscent of lychees, roses, and candied orange rind. On the palate, Gewurztraminer is full-bodied.

Wow White, WhiteWater O’Brien Winery & Vineyard

This wine is a blend of Frontenac Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling, sourced from vineyards along the East Bank of the Ottawa River in Westmeath and Niagara-on-the-Lake regions. Aromas of stone fruits, honey, and delicate petroleum notes lead to a crisp, refreshing palate and a satisfying medium finish.

Rhubarb Estate Cider, Farmgate Cider

A seasonal cider made from a blend of organic Empire, Macintosh, wild apples and rhubarb juice. It is perfectly dry with a little tartness that’s sure to please.

There are over 10 different wineries and 3 distilleries in and around the Capital Region, and we’ve highlighted 4 of our top picks for the warmer weather ahead.

Admiral’s Command Pot Still Gin, Stratford-Fox Run Distillery

Crafted in a copper pot still with a carefully selected blend of botanicals. Bursting with notes of citrus and juniper, this gin has a distinct taste that is both smooth and robust.

Create your world

Welcome to Northwoods in Kanata, a picturesque neighbourhood promising a lifestyle filled with recreation, community spirit and the promise of a bright future. Nearby, reconnect with nature in over 100 parks and trails, practise all-season sports at Bell Sensplex and golf courses, and enjoy rainy day retreats at Landmark Cinemas Kanata.

Whether you’re settling into your next chapter or searching for a place to plant roots, Northwoods is the ideal neighbourhood in the right location for you.

CHRIS ALLARD

MORTGAGE TEAM

Professional, Prompt and Popular

“Our team is known for having some of the nicest brokers with whom to work,” beams Chris Allard, founder of the eponymous and highly recognized Chris Allard Mortgage Team.

BY DAN LALANDE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN SISK

We’re well respected by lenders and industry peers. We’re known for our creative solutions and high level of communication. We help all types of residential borrowers, as well as those building large multi-residential portfolios. We also help people with bruised credit and clients looking for construction financing.”

Small wonder, given the range and success rate of their assistance, that the office trophy case is at capacity.

“Our team has been recognized by so many awards,” Chris affirms, going on to offer a partial inventory: “The Consumer Choice Award, the Quality Business Award, the Best in Ottawa Award—and let’s not forget that I was voted the city’s Best Mortgage Broker by Faces Magazine in 2023,” he adds cheekily. Chris has also been in the top 75 in Canada for a number of years as one of the brokers with the most loan volume and was a finalist in the Canadian Mortgage Awards in 2022 for Best Mortgage Broker in the entire country.

So, how does a sports-loving Orleans boy (he’s still there, with his wife and two-yearold daughter) grow to become the exemplary

head of an exemplary mortgage broker team? “It starts,” he advises, “with being an authentic person who will get the job done. The mortgage broker and their team should be effective communicators who have the borrowers’ best interest at heart.”

As proof, Chris spotlights the members of his team: “Phil, my brother, is the captain when it comes to getting pre-approvals done. He speaks with most of our clients and ensures all home buyers are pre-approved and educated on the mortgage financing process. He does this with the support of our pre-approval underwriter, Jason. Matt does most of the underwriting to get files approved. He also has many of the mortgage planning calls to help borrowers pick a mortgage, rate, term and lender. Laurie and Denise are our rocks. They make sure all mortgage conditions are satisfied and that all files are funded in a timely manner. By the end of the process, clients want

to be lifelong friends with Laurie and Denise. Haley handles the administrative side. She works fast and efficiently. She’s amazing.”

Chris’ enthusiasm isn’t reserved for his hardworking co-workers. It’s an extension of his palpable passion for his profession. “I love to celebrate when a borrower gets approved for their loan,” he reveals. “I also love to celebrate when the mortgage gets funded. Getting a mortgage is a milestone.

“It starts with being an authentic person who will get the job done. The mortgage broker and their team should be effective communicators who have the borrowers’ best interest at heart.”

When we do renew, refinances, or debt consolidations, we’re generally helping the borrower ensure that they’re doing financial planning properly. An equally exciting part of our job is helping the many realtors, financial planners, and lawyers that we work with. It’s a joy to help them and their clients.”

Not to mention other members of the greater Ottawa community. The long list of charitable organizations Allard and company have helped in the past includes Matthew House, Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East, the Ottawa Humane Society, Youth Services Jeunesse…even the Barrhaven Mixed Slo-Pitch League.

The brokerage’s first priority, however, remains Ottawa’s homebuyers. 2024 is proving especially challenging for them. As always, though, Allard is at the ready with constructive advice: “Buy now if you can!” he urges. “Many economists maintain that we’ll see rates improve for borrowers. This could

trigger an environment where there are many potential buyers competing for homes. Act sooner rather than later!”

Wise words—but try doing it without an expedient infrastructure. Fortunately, no one has to. Chris and company pride themselves on pace, helping clients take advantage of the market before it becomes too competitive. The Allard Team keeps in constant touch with all related parties, promptly responds to phone calls and emails, and gets files approved at astonishing speed. At Allard, quick turnaround time has always been a point of pride—now, though, it’s more important than ever.

When Chris isn’t busy closing deals, you’ll find him enjoying quality time with his family—that or watching his beloved Ottawa Senators, for whom he’s had season’s tickets forever. But his top priority remains helping the largest percentage of local families possible. Though he’s still in his early thirties, already, Chris has assisted over 2,500 of them. “Our entire team is proud of that,” says Chris—and he, in turn, of them.

As one of the most highly respected, best mortgage brokers in Ottawa, the Chris Allard Mortgage Team provides residential, commercial, private and bad credit mortgages.