FineLifestyles Halifax Summer 2013

HRM

SUMMER 2013 | VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2

FLOORS PLUS & STYLE 52:

25 YEARS

OF FLOORS AND DÉCOR

Also, SPECIAL FOCUS ON ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Perfect Home for Your Lifestyle with EXIT Realty Metro

Trillium Elegant open concept twobedroom and den offers you panoramic city and harbour views.

MLS® #41367871

186 Peachtree Hill 4’×8’ of solar surface on the roof, EnerGuide 88 beautiful 5 bedroom in Russell Lake with all the Natural Gas features. MLS® #41324161

King’s Wharf Enjoy spectacular Halifax harbour views from this executive King’s Wharf penthouse rental. kirkmosher.com/executive-rentals

Since EXIT Realty Metro’s inception in 2003, they’ve become one of the top producing offices in Metro with over 157 agents and more than 1,200 sales last year alone.

Sam Rad 902.579.7770 srad@exitmetro.ca www.nichehomesinc.com

Robert Lijs 902.818.5457 robert@exitmetro.ca www.robertlijs.com

Sharon MacDonald 902.877.2656 sharon@exitmetro.ca www.greaterhalifaxhomes.ca

Independent Member Broker

Richard Murphy Exit Realty Metro 902-999-2277 cell richardmurphy@exitmetro.ca

Kirk Mosher 902.240.4600 kirkmosher@exitmetro.ca www.kirkmosher.com

Rick Brown 902.452.3030 rick@exitmetro.ca www.greaterhalifaxhomes.ca

Dartmouth – 110 Garland Ave. | Halifax – 6960 Mumford Rd. Suite 2128 Bedford – Bedford Place Mall, Second Level | 902.444.EXIT (3948) | www.exitmetro.ca

EX OFF TE ER ND ED

FIND THE COMBINATION THAT WORKS FOR YOU

Offer does not neccessarily include items shown.

SAVINGS UP TO $6,647 Buy a 36" or 48" Professional Range OR Double Wall Oven AND 36" Cook Top and receive an Emerald Series Dishwasher FREE*

OR

OPTION

FREE

BUY

1

OPTION

BONUS ADD

=

+ OPTION

2

OPTION

Buy a 2 or 3 Door Fridge OR 2 Columns (Fridge/Freezer) Receive FREE* Vent Hood

=

FREE

Offer valid 1/1/2013–9/30/2013

BUY

SEE STORE FOR DETAILS OR VISIT WWW.THERMADOR.CA

38 Fielding Avenue Burnside Industrial Park Dartmouth, NS

902.481.3313 Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.creativeappliance.ca

So, what are the differences between Life Equity, Condos and Apartments?

Life Equity Freedom from suite repairs

Condominiums

§

Apartments 3

Preserves equity

§

Freedom from condo politics

§

3

Freedom from cash calls

§

3

Predictable expenses

§

3

Home Healthcare coordination

§

3

Thinking about downsizing, but not sure what your options are?

• Learn about a new purchase option for those 55 plus who are wanting to downsize.

• Get in early on a new development that’s sponsored

by Northwood - with over 50 years of proven community service.

• You know about Northwood for Mom and Dad but do you know what Northwood can do for you?

Check out the Meridian at www.bedfordmeridian.ca and find out about our next information session.

902 446-5433 info@bedfordmeridian.ca In proud partnership with RBC

This is your life—make it beautiful.

Around-the-clock Confidence…

Why Wouldn’t You? After you experience the benefits of laser hair removal, you’ll wish you had visited Light Touch sooner.

• From private moments to public beaches, feel good in your skin all the time. Light Touch Laser will help you enjoy every pleasure life has to offer with confidence.

• Feeling your best is the key to living life to its fullest. Launch a successful weight loss journey with the incredible four-phase Ideal Protein program.

• Excellence in equipment, along with our experienced technician, will help you kiss unwanted body hair good-bye and enjoy the luxury of silky, smooth skin.

902.678.2829

| 50 A WEBSTER STREET, KENTVILLE, NS, B4N 147 LIGHTTOUCH@NS.ALIANTZINC.CA | WWW.LIGHTTOUCH.CA

THE SMIRNOFF MULE ®

THE SMIRNOFF MULE ®

INGREDIENTS 1 oz SMIRNOFF® No. 21 Vodka 0.25 oz Lime Juice 3 oz Ginger ale

PREPARATION In a glass with ice, add SMIRNOFF® No. 21 Vodka and lime juice. Top with ginger ale, stir and garnish with a lime.

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY © DIAGEO CANADA, INC. 2013. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. TOUS DROITS RÉSERVÉS.

FineLifestyles HaLIFax (HRM)

WITH FINE LIFEstyLEs EDItOR LIndsey HunneWeLL

A

h, it’s finally summertime.

Now we can relax on our outdoor patios, or take our boats out to enjoy a leisurely ride on a warm, sunny day.

Being in Nova Scotia during the summer has always been a treat for me; it seems like there are endless opportunities to take in the magic of the Maritimes. From internationally-known festivals like the Royal International Tattoo or the Halifax international Busker Festival, to whale watching or enjoying a dinner on the waterfront, it’s no wonder why so many people love to visit Canada’s Ocean Playground.

During this exciting time of year, I’m pleased to be able to bring you a number of stories that highlight the beauty of summer in Nova Scotia.

We had the chance to chat with Larry and Patricia Gibson, coowners of Floors Plus and Style 52. After 25 years in the business, they shared a few trade secrets about combining great flooring with stellar décor and lighting.

We caught up with Halifax crooner David Myles after his first Juno win with rapper Classified, and Myles filled us in on the success of Inner Ninja and gave us a taste of his newest album.

And, what summer would be complete without exploring the beautiful Annapolis Valley? Within these pages, we’ll take you on a tour of some of the restaurants, businesses and events that will make you want to escape the city in our Annapolis Valley feature.

So, sit back and enjoy a quiet afternoon in the sunshine with us and discover some of the summer wonders of this region.

Advertising Consultants

Jason MacDonald Barbara McConnell 902.220.2844 902.452.0308 jasonm@finelifestyles.ca barbm@finelifestyles.ca

Sindy Milosevich 902.809.1059 sindym@finelifestyles.ca

Seann Gervason Tracey Wallace 902.476.4700 902.441.4456 seanng@finelifestyles.ca traceyw@finelifestyles.ca

summer 2013 VOLuMe 2 Issue 2 www.finelifestyles.ca Associate Editor Lindsey Hunnewell

lindseyh@finelifestyles.ca

In-house Design Danielle Austin DeAnne Bell

Elisa Malfitana Lisa Redden

Staff Writers Trina Annand Nykea Behiel Tobie Hainstock Julie Mushynsky

Rebecca Schneidereit Paul Sinkewicz Matthew Stone

Cover Photography Kelly Neil

Photography A Slice of Life Imagery Tom England Tanya Everett Bruce Jollimore Melissa Kelly Matt Kozera Kelly Neil

Natasha Poirier Jennifer Galliott Anfia Lin Joanna Nickerson Trish Robicheau Liana vandenHof-Rhodenizer

Contributing Writers Angela Campagnoni Lisa Drader-Murphy

Erica Shelley Fran Underwood

Subscriptions wayne@finelifestyles.ca

finemags

@finemags

FineLifestyles HRM is published four times a year by FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada 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 FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada Ltd. publications are copyrighted 2013 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to FineLifestyles HRM, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada Ltd. or its writers. The name FineLifestyles HRM, 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 FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada 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.

Canada Post Publication Agreement #41818060 Return undeliverables to: 3440 Balsam Grove; Regina, Saskatchewan; S4V 1H1

FineLifestyles

HRM

7

What’sInside

22

56 105 FEATuRE STORIES 22

Kings of Swag: Designer, Lisa Drader-Murphy

85 Mooseheads Memorial Cup Win

32 Healing at the IWK Health Centre

96 Mark de Jonge: Paddling to Olympic Bronze

52

105 COVER: Floors Plus & Style 52

HMCS Sackville: Canada’s Naval Memorial

56 Local Chef Takes on the World

150 Breaking Ground on the Nova Centre

77

159 Annapolis Valley Special Feature

8

Artist Spotlight: David Myles

FineLifestyles

HRM

52

77

96

85 159 DEPARTMENTS 10

Style

102 House and Home

32 Health and Wellness

150 Business

52 Arts, Dining and Entertainment

154 Wheels

85 Sports, Recreation and Travel

200 Retail Directory

FineLifestyles

HRM

9

Susan MacIntosh, owner

ImagInatIon In Full-Bloom at the hydrostone

By FL StaFF Photos NataSha Poirier

I

n April, Props Floral Design opened the doors of its new Hydrostone Market home. After 16 years on Granville Street, the new location, the timing and the space could be summed up in one word by owner Susan MacIntosh: perfect. “It was just everything I’d been looking for,” says Susan. “We have sunshine pouring in the windows. We have a park across the street, convenient parking—and lots of great neighbours.”

Support from Props’ “fabulous customers” has only increased in the shop’s new location. In fact, the reception has been so enthusiastic that Susan is looking for new staff to help Props’ long-time designers, Ashley MacNeill and Kelsey Langille, keep up with the seven-days-aweek traffic. “We were confident that the

10

FineLifestyles

HRM

new location would be a good thing,” says Susan, “and we are amazed, every day, by the amount of walk-in traffic discovering the shop … what a beautiful thing!”

The new boutique space is much larger than the previous shop; Susan plans to use the extra room to expand on Props’ popular floral design classes, seminars and workshops. “We now have beautiful facilities to accommodate corporate and private groups of 10 to 30,” she says, “for a social gathering with participants discovering the pleasures of floral design.” In addition, a selection of local restaurants can create catering packages for participants hoping to add culinary flair to the evening. “We are really looking forward to expanding this venue,” says Susan.

Since her early days at the Farmers’ Market, Susan has been in love with the floral trade. “I’ve been doing flowers for 27 years,” she says. “Imagine having flowers in your life every day … the inspiration of each special design … I hope I never have to get a ‘job!’” That creative and passionate approach has become a Props’ trademark. “Everyone here has a very keen eye for colour and design,” says Susan. And on Young Street, there’s more room than ever for their imaginations to blossom. FLH Props in The Hydrostone Market 5533 Young Street Halifax 902.429.1935 Toll Free 1.866.429.1935 www.propsfloraldesign.com

TrendSpotting

A LOOK AT WHAT’S FASHIONABLE FOR THE SUMMER

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

Behind the SeamS With

Mo HandaHu &

clutcH culture

By AngelA CAmpAgnoni, HRm fAsHion Columnist photos JennifeR gAlliott

W

hile I have often been quoted using the term “fake it till you make it,” I can honestly tell you when meeting the force of nature known as Mo Handahu, there is nothing fake about this lady. She’s a genuine person with an infectious laugh, and you can’t help but find yourself smiling around her presence. I can say, in a business where integrity can often be lost, it has been a treat watching Mo’s vision and designs blossom over the last few years I have worked with her in Halifax’s fashion scene. As I go behind the seams with Mo, I encourage you to check out her blog and vibrantly coloured clutch designs and discover all that is Mo.

12

FineLifestyles

HRM

AC: Tell me a little about yourself.

Where are you from? What’s your educational background? What are your general professional and nonprofessional interests?

MH: I design clutches for my brand, Clutch Culture, and also curate a blog called Lion Hunter, which focuses on my personal style and all the amazing things that I come across. I have a degree in Business from Acadia University, and I live in Halifax where I’m carving my own path in the fashion industry.

AC: What does fashion mean to you?

MH: Fashion is a means of expression for me. I can use different articles of clothing to create a look that gives the best visual of my personality and what I’m about.

AC: Where do you get your inspiration?

MH: I try to be as open minded as possible, as there is inspiration in everything around us. I love colour, I love watching, talking and learning from other creative people. I also just try to live life as best as I can because I’m bound to go through things that will shape me to become a better person and designer.

AC: What are some of accomplishments as a designer?

your

MH: I’ve been featured by some amazing media outlets like CTV and CBC, FASHION Magazine, Huffington Post Canada and Flare Magazine. I’ve also showcased my brand at Atlantic Fashion Week.

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

your

there. I do find most materials locally and once in a while online too.

MH: Diane Von Furstenberg, Mary Katrantzou, Mara Hoffman, Monif C. and Oscar de la Renta.

AC: What matters to you most as a fashion designer?

AC: How long have you worked as a designer?

MH: Being true to myself and my vision is what matters to me the most; my brand has to be cohesive.

AC: Who are some favourite designers?

of

MH: I’ve been designing clutches for four years now.

AC: Who is one of your favourite local models to work with?

MH: One of my favourite models to would have to be Michelle Corkum (City Models). I appreciate how supportive she is of my vision, and we’ve worked on so many projects that we’ve become good friends.

AC: What are your favourite fabrics to work with and why?

MH: I love African wax prints and Ankara because they are a part of my African heritage and are so in tune with my personality and brand.

AC: Where your clutches?

can

readers

MH: Visit www.lion-hunter.com.

I encourage my readers to explore the Second Storey on Queen Street in Halifax and discover for yourself wonderfully made, local products that are fun, colourful and full of life, just like the designer behind the label. Enjoy another little piece of the fashion puzzle that makes up my Haliland.

To learn more about local industry people and follow the fashion and lifestyle happenings around the city, visit my blog at www.angelahaliland.com. FLH

buy

AC: Where do you buy your fabrics and other sewing materials?

MH: Online at www.lion-hunter.com/ store and also at Second Storey, 1526 Queen Street, Halifax.

MH: I love shopping for fabrics in Toronto; I find some of the best prints

AC: Before I wrap up, where can readers find out more about you and your work?

left l–R Mo Handahu, designer; Angela Campagnoni

FineLifestyles

HRM

13

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

Bedazzling HRM

with an Eclectic Mix of Jewellery and Accessories

By Trina annand PHotos Jennifer GallioTT

N

estled in the Piazza at Bishop’s Landing, Bedazzled Ornaments welcomes clients to come in and enjoy beautiful jewellery and accessories. Walking into Bedazzled, clients are greeted by the friendly faces of Ann Redt and Mona Bottomley as well as a newly renovated store that enriches the customer’s experience. Ann has created a jewellery shop that not only displays jewellery, but creates an interactive experience.

“I only sell what I love. I want customers to leave happy with their purchase. I want them to know that they made the right choice. I would rather have someone leave and come back to buy something later than buy something they don’t love,” remarks Ann.

14

FineLifestyles

HRM

Open every day, Bedazzled has something for everyone and features Canadian jewellery designers Trudy Gallagher, Anne-Marie Chagnon and Marina Smith.

Trudy Gallagher’s jewellery line, Bejewel, is one of the most sought after lines in Atlantic Canada, celebrating 25 years.

Customers can choose from Bejewel’s more colourful pieces or the newer, nature-inspired lines fashioned out of fine silver. Trudy has also created a special jewellery piece available only at Bedazzled, and she is going to be featured in a number of trunk shows at the store while she visits Halifax to showcase her work.

Conversely, the work of Montreal native Anne-Marie Chagnon is more industrial,

working in magnetic pewter, glass, resin and gold; she creates unique modern fine art pieces. These handcrafted pieces have garnered a lot of attention internationally. Anne-Marie has even been commissioned by Cirque du Soleil to create special collections based on their shows. Her work is based on the fine balance of industrial and delicacy.

An artist for over 25 years and Halifax local, Marina Smith creates steampunk, vintage-inspired jewellery designs under the name Arcane Angel. This line is created using vintage time pieces dating from 1815 to 1940 and embraces the Victorian era.

Ayala Bar channels her experiences as a costume jeweller for theatre into an artistic jewellery career. Working in

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

metal, glass beads and mineral stones, Ayala’s work has been described as Art Deco meets the Middle East.

“Our jewellery is unique, something you can pass down to your family. It’s art at an affordable price. FLH

Bedazzled also offers a wide variety of jewellery lines such as brands like Kameleon and Trollbeads. Kameleon, an interchangeable jewel line, was created

by Dartmouth local Robert Smith, whereas Trollbeads are the original build-your-own bracelet.

Bedazzled Ornaments 902.429.3434 The Piazza at Bishop’s Landing 1475 Lower Water Street Halifax www.bedazzledjewels.blogspot.com bedazzledhfx_ornaments@bellaliant.com

For Ann, the jewellery experience needs to be comfortable, approachable and affordable. Walking into the store, clients are not greeted by the usual wall-to-wall jewellery trapped in cases.

Very few of the items at Bedazzled are in cases; Ann wants people to enjoy and touch her jewellery.

“People come in and pick things up and try them on. I want them to play and have fun,” says Ann. Bedazzled creates a full experience with the customer, offering more than just jewellery, such accessories like Mary Francis bags.

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

Left Sarah Bottomley wearing Mary Frances Thoroughbred handbag, Earth Goddess real orchid headband, Wendy Jack shawl MiddLe L–r Mona Bottomley wearing a limited edition Ayala bar necklace; Ann Redt wearing Anne Marie Chagnon 2013 necklace, Wendy Jack poncho right Trudy Gallagher wearing custom Bedazzled necklace and earrings

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

Beyond Cute:

Boutique Brings an Edgy Style to Halifax

By Rebecca SchneideReit Photos nataSha PoiRieR

I

“ can’t even count the number of times in the day I hear the word ‘cute’,” laments Courtney Jones, owner of Better Than Her Boutique. Not that there’s anything wrong with cute. Still, Courtney would rather wear something refreshing, unexpected. That personal preference became a professional vision when Courtney opened Better Than Her Boutique (BTHB) in December 2012. “With so many boutiques in Halifax, I really needed to make sure I was bringing in different items,” says Courtney, who describes BTHB’s image as “edgy-unique.”

Better Than Her Boutique’s merchandise runs the style gamut from frayed denim to ultra-glam cocktail dresses. The clothes are practical, but daring: metallic trim, studs and rhinestones, sequins and bold prints gleam from every corner of the intimate Spring Garden Place location. “My personal style is reflected in a lot of items,” Courtney says of her stock, which she selects from L.A. Although she brings in new finds weekly, keeping BTHB’s shelves full can be a welcome challenge. “I have sold out of items in a day,” says Courtney, who posts photos of all BTHB’s stock online so web-savvy shoppers can suss out the best finds. “I didn’t really expect to have such a clientele build.” Courtney suspects that BTHB’s social media presence has contributed to the store’s mounting popularity. “Instagram, Twitter and Facebook have really helped.”

Before opening Better Than Her Boutique, Courtney was a teacher. It was during a year-long post in Nunavut, where she ceaselessly urged her students to commit to their dreams,

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

that she found the courage to follow her own. Perhaps inspired by this northern adventure, Better Than Her Boutique’s décor could be described as tundrachic: lights shine from antlers suspended from the ceiling, clothing hangs from oak boughs, and trees and deer are painted on the shop’s walls. “I wanted to stay away from the typical chandelier, vintage wallpaper … I wanted the clothes to be the colour within the place,” Courtney says of the shop’s look. Even the boutique’s name was inspired by her travels, during which Courtney learned that female caribou were unique in their ability to grow antlers, making them the most fashionable female deer— literally “better than her.”

The clothes at BTHB are fun, unexpected and, Courtney emphasizes, affordable.

Tops typically retail around $50, and dresses currently run from $50 to $68.

Nothing in the store costs over $100.

“I’m trying not to turn into a stereotypical boutique with high prices,” she says.

“When I price things … I put myself as the buyer. If I wouldn’t personally buy it at that price, I’m not going to mark it at that price.”

Courtney has big plans for BTHB this summer. First on her list is a Canada-wide online store, so that her customers— many of whom are students—can snap up BTHB pieces no matter where their travels take them. She also hopes to incorporate a consignment rack, as well as plus-sized merchandise (sizes currently run S-XL), and to bring on a couple handpicked part-time employees to help manage the store. The future holds infinite possibilities, and Courtney Jones plans to meet them with style. FLH Better Than Her Boutique 5640 Spring Garden Road (2nd Floor of Spring Garden Place) Halifax 902.446.4665 www.betterthanher.com |

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

Beautiful Skin StartS Here pHotoS courteSy of gentle touch spa & laser centre and By natasha poirier

W

omen everywhere are looking for ways to look younger. Pick up any magazine and it’s clear that improving one’s appearance is something that is top of mind for many women.

How do women really make themselves look better? It could be fashion, a facelift, makeup or maybe yoga. It depends on your mindset and your budget. Helen Ormston, owner of Gentle Touch Spa & Laser Centres, 18

FineLifestyles

HRM

is focused on helping women find their own beauty within.

Ormston has been in the business of aesthetic laser skin technologies and beauty for over 16 years. “What women want has not changed; they want to look as fabulous and as youthful as they feel. There are non-invasive technologies that work without changing a client’s appearance, but, instead, enhance it,” notes Ormston.

Women think getting rid of wrinkles will make them look younger or more beautiful, but the mistake that many make is ignoring the importance of clear and even skin tone.”Women don’t realize that uneven skin tone, bumps and pigmented spots are more visually aging than wrinkles,” remarks Ormston.

Improving a client’s appearance can involve many different steps, products and SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

technologies. At Gentle Touch, we cater to every age and budget. The clients we see in their 20s are primarily concerned with getting clearer skin. Typically, we suggest a series of microdermabrasion treatments combined with good skincare and makeup: a simple and affordable solution.

As clients age and their needs change, we are here to advise them on the best solution for their individual needs and budget. If dollars are tight, we recommend sunscreen and suggest treatments that they can do at home. For clients who have chosen to invest more, we would suggest a series of hydra facials to correct minor imperfections and then move on to more advanced technology such as photo-facial (IPL) and skin tightening. Every woman is different, and each treatment plan reflects that.

Almost all the treatments we do have no down time, and clients can put their makeup on and go right back to their day.”As a woman staring 50 in the face, I truly understand what many women are feeling.

They want to look better, not different, but they don’t know where to begin. At Gentle Touch, we can help,” notes Ormston.

Tips for health and beauty • Wear good sunscreen every day and never use a tanning bed.

• Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet year round.Beautiful skin starts on the inside.

• Exercise: find something you love to do and do it as often as you can.

• Invest in some good mineral based makeup such as Jane Iredale™.

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

• Invest in technology based facials and photo-facials. They can Reduce and reverse the signs of aging.

• In your 30s, start adding vitamin and peptide serums and night creams to your skincare regime.

• Get enough sleep every night.

“Having a consultation is a great, no pressure (and no cost) way to review your options and decide what treatments and products might be just right for you at this stage in your life,” says Ormston. FLH

Gentle Touch Spa & Laser Centres Park Lane Mall, Halifax Mic Mac Mall, Dartmouth 902.429.6611 info@gentletouchonline.com

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

Getting to Know THE KINGS OF SWAG NATIONAL FASHION COLUMNIST, LISA DRADER-MURPHY

Storage Wars, filming their recurring role as themselves.

I spoke with Matt Harris recently to learn more about their glamorous lifestyle, versatile and eclectic careers, and something that has made them stand out: their impeccable style.

Lisa Drader-Murphy

W

hile attending their fabulous WOW! Celebrity Lounge for the Oscars this past February, I met Matt and Mark Harris, the colourful twins who are known in Hollywood as “the Kings of Swag.”

When they are not on LA Talk Radio as the Taste Makers, walking red carpets, hob-knobbing at luxury-laden soirées at the Kentucky Derby, or judging for Donald Trump’s Miss Universe franchise, they can be spotted on the set of A&E’s

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

Lisa Drader-Murphy: How would you describe your personal style?

Matt Harris: We’ve really evolved into a Gatsby-Derby style. You can wear a nice suit, but if you don’t have a nice pocket square or socks or tie, it can look pretty boring. One of my signatures is spectator shoes. Whether it’s black and white, brown and white, cream and white, I wear them quite often.

LD-M: You have been involved in a number of high profile events, and the anticipation around what you will be wearing has created a lot of buzz. How

much time goes into planning your outfits for your appearances during these events?

MH: We focus on the details. For the Kentucky Derby, we brought back the walking stick, and Mark had a cigarette holder. We have a luxury event to attend today, and we’ve spent the last three days trying to figure out what to wear.

I’m wearing pink pants, a blue blazer, a bright purple shirt and a fantastic colourful pocket square. Mark is wearing something comparable to that … It’s a look that is going to pop as we walk down the street together.

LD-M: As busy as you are with your company, travels, radio show and more, you are clearly passionate about your style and clothing.

MH: Between Mark and myself, we’re buying non-stop! It’s almost to the point that we’re addicted to shopping. My

FineLifestyles

HRM

23

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

Get THE LOOK

TOP–BOTTOM Matt and Mark Harris with Oscar Nunez; Matt and Mark Harris with William Shatner

oldest daughter has been away at school for two years, and I have turned her room into my dressing room and moved my entire wardrobe in there.

LD-M: You have a popular show on LA Talk Radio called the Taste Makers. What do you share with your listeners?

MH: Fashion, style, luxury and the entertainment industry, and then we also talk about the events we’ve participated in. We sometimes have celebrity guests.

Recently, we invited Oscar Nunez from the Office to join us. We were invited to this thing … the Beverly Hills Concours d’Elegance. It was … all about old cars and style and it takes place at the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills, built in the 1920s. It’s stuff like that that we love to attend and meet people, and then we can talk about those experiences on the show.

LD-M: Your company, WOW! Creations, has provided and produced some of the

24

FineLifestyles

HRM

most exciting swag bags and gift lounges in Hollywood and beyond. You’ve provided gifting for the Kentucky Derby, ABC’s The Bachelor, the Oscars, the Emmys, the Grammys, Sundance Film Festival, Miss America, Miss Universe, Miss USA, TBS Comedy Festival, Soul Train Music Awards, TV Land Awards, William Shatner charities and more.

They all sound so exciting! Is there one event that stands out as a favourite?

MH: We do so many events throughout the year, but one we enjoy the most is the Kentucky Derby because of all the parties. What we love about the Kentucky Derby is the history—this was the 139th year—the pageantry, because it’s a week-long party with red carpet events, luncheons, cuisine, fashion and celebrity. You hear about the women and their hats, but the men’s hats are just as important and stylish! FLH

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

TRUE BESPOKE AVAILABLE IN HALIFAX Resort Line Runway Show 3rd Week in June

BY JULIE MUSHYNSKY PHOTOS NATASHA POIRIER

1

80° Moda specializes in custom designed and made clothing for men and woman.

Taura Lee, owner of 180° Moda, tells us about fashion, how they use body scanning technology to create your avatar when designing your perfect apparel, the basics for men and women and what’s new at 180°.

How important is a person’s wardrobe?

A person is described by what they wear, be it the sharp business suit, a sundress or the perfect shoes. Indeed, clothes make the person. Clothes tell the story of who we are, what we do and where we are going. What we wear to work and what we choose to wear after work reflects a great deal on our character and personalities. Clothes tell other people what we like, prefer and often show how we like to spend our time.

What is the difference between ready-to-wear, made-to-measure and bespoke clothing?

Ready-to-wear clothing is factory made in finished condition.

Made-to-measure is produced to order from an adjusted block pattern.

Adjustments are made from the existing pattern for the individual.

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

Taura Lee, owner

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

Bespoke is a term analogous to women’s haute couture and used widely in the UK and Europe, but rarely used in Canada.

Bespoke standards particularly stress hand work used almost entirely on all garments, like the individual cut pattern and the individual selection of fabrics and features of the design.

180° Moda offers true bespoke clothing.

We work with our customers from scratch to create the design, choose the fabrics and create a perfect fit.

Each of our garments are individually designed, cut and sewn by a handful of master tailors. Using only the finest tailoring materials, each bespoke item is a work of art unto itself. All interlining, canvas and buttons are imported directly from Italy for these one-of-a-kind garments. Our bespoke dresses are made from the finest silks, chiffons, satins, beads and crystals with stitching detail that has been mastered for generations.

You can feel and see the quality when you put it on. Our blazers are canvas—not fused—and made with working button holes and pockets on the inside.

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

What is the fitting process you take with a client?

First, you come in for a consultation to create a design. We encourage customers to bring style images as inspiration. Clients can also meet with a designer to come up with a style that suits them best.

Second, we collect your measurements.

We have a body scanner that takes very precise measurements. It creates an avatar that we use when designing your garments. It is as though you are standing in front of us. This eliminates the need for multiple fittings, which is characteristic of bespoke. We can actually walk your avatar up and down a runway to see how the clothes fit on your body.

Third, we make the garment and retain your measurements on file for subsequent orders. Orders can be made directly online at www.180moda.com. We will be launching an interactive website in the next four weeks where you will be able to create your garment online.

What are the basics every man should have?

The basic bespoke suit in traditional colours like black, navy and charcoal grey should be the first choice. Shirts in solid white, light blue and salmon or pale pink are great partners.

A classic English bespoke blazer in traditional navy is an excellent casual dress item that can be paired with oxford grey pants for a more formal occasion and with jeans and a bespoke shirt in a more casual environment.

What are the basics every woman should have?

An elegant long evening dress; a flirty, fun cocktail dress; a form fitting kneelength dress that can be worn with or without a blazer; a great pair of jeans; a couple of go-to sundresses and lots of accessories to dress up the outfits. And we offer them all.

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

What inspired you to start a resort line and what items can we expect to see?

crystal accents with pants and blazers as complimentary pieces. All will be available after our runway show the third week of June.

Since many of our clients travel to warmer climates in the winter and sail in the summer, I decided to design a line of clothing that would work well in these environments. We do well in the formal clothing category, so this was the next natural step in our offerings.

Please email us at info@180moda.com if you would like to purchase tickets to the runway show and for the confirmed date and location. FLH

You will see tops, maxi and knee-length dresses in silk, chiffons and satins, in both solids and prints edged in Swarovski

180째 Moda Incorporated 5571 Cunard Street Halifax 902.482.0505 info@180moda.com www.180moda.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

27

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

l–r Mary Lou Tallon, supervisor; Cathy Steiger, Steve Broadbent, Frances Slattery, Bonnie Tulk, Clara Johnson

Professional catering for any tyPe of event from Bar Service, to Dinner Parties, to Weddings and Larger Functions

by Rebecca SchneideReit Photos bRuce jollimoRe

T

here’s a lot to remember when you’re planning an event. First, you’ll need to find a caterer to feed your guests. Then you’ll have to hire servers to manage the food and a bartender to provide drinks. After that, you need to arrange for a photographer, a DJ and sometimes even a lighting technician. It’s a lot to handle, especially if you want to enjoy the event yourself.

But, there is an alternative. If you’d rather not need to call the caterer, the servers, the bartender, the DJ and all the rest of the event personnel, you can call Metro Hospitality Services, and they’ll do it all for you.

28

FineLifestyles

HRM

Whether you’re looking for a single bartender for an intimate party, or for the complete staff required to stage a lavish white wedding, Metro Hospitality can provide service to exceed your expectations. They provide a fresh, reliable and flexible service to meet your needs. “Whatever the guests need or want, we’re on it,” says company founder Gerald McCowan.

An ex-military cook with two decades of professional experience, Gerald’s accustomed to running a tight ship, and his high standards are reflected in Metro Hospitality Services’ quickly mounting popularity. “We did 60 events in the first year of business.”

Metro Hospitality Services works with some of Halifax’s finest caterers, and Gerald hand-picks the business’s service staff for his own in-house staff role. The interview process includes several questions about potential employees’ training, since Gerald requires servers to have prior hospitality experience even to be considered for a position with the company. Once he’s employed a new server, Gerald has them fill out a questionnaire to assess their strengths; he’ll then place them only in the arena for which they’re most suited. He also provides his staff with a uniform and official code of conduct.

At Metro Hospitality Services, “our

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

view is that our people represent our corporation and our company … our staff are professionals,” he explains.

For that reason, the company is run by catering professionals who have worked within the industry for more than 12 years. Drawing from this experience, they are able to solve all your staffing needs in an ever-changing environment by offering an excellent level of service at competitive rates without compromising on the quality of their staff.

How much time Metro Hospitality Services requires to orchestrate an event varies according to the needs of the client.

Sandwiches and soup might require 24 hours’ advance notice; bartenders might be provided within a few days of a client’s request. Every single event that Metro Hospitality serves, Gerald attends (no matter the size). “I show up at all the events, and I usually help out,” he says.

It’s a policy that has seen him attend events from tiny house-and-garden affairs to bustling church hall gatherings

and everything in between. “We did one in a barn not too long ago.”

Metro Hospitality Services’ success has a simple explanation. They’ve taken a classic, convenient concept — the “onestop shop” — and skilfully applied it to the arena of event management and planning. They are filling a niche and providing a service that is virtually unique in Halifax. Whatever you’re planning over the coming months — midsummer wedding, family barbeque, Christmas party — Metro Hospitality Services can turn your event into a showstopper, and you can sit back, relax and enjoy it alongside your guests. FLH

Metro Hospitality Services Kearney Lake Road Halifax 902.405.1887 info@metrohospitalityservices.ca www.metrohospitalityservices.ca

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TREND SPOTTING

ABOVE L–R Sarah, Lily Dunn, owner; Megan

Luxurious Lingerie with the Perfect Fit and Expert Services

By Trina annand Photos Jennifer GallioTT

U

pon entering Lily’s Lingerie, visitors are greeted by friendly faces and some of the finest lingerie in Canada. Lily’s carries only the best European lingerie in a wide variety of colours and styles of brands that have existed for more than 150 years.

The bras at Lily’s feature beautiful handmade lace, making each piece a unique work of art. The shop has been offering Haligonians and visitors lingerie for 36 years, providing European lingerie longer than anyone else in Canada.

A visit to Lily’s expert bra fitters will not only result in a weight off your back, but improve your mood. “I encourage clients to dress from the inside out. If you’re wearing something pretty or sexy under

30

FineLifestyles

HRM

your clothes, you feel better,” says owner Lily Dunn. Dunn has helped numerous clients find the perfect bra for all of their needs. After all, there is no rule that functional can’t be gorgeous.

When looking for lingerie, let Lily’s change your life. “All a customer has to do is come in, and within a few minutes, I can make them look 10 years younger, 20 pounds lighter and help them feel better,” remarks Dunn.

Having a perfectly-fit bra improves your posture and can ease a wide variety of health and back concerns. Lily’s is a welcoming environment for all ages and sizes; getting the right bra at an early age can help a young woman’s selfesteem greatly. Lily’s carries bra sizes

32A to 58N and offers exclusive brands like Empreinte, Lise Charmel, Ulla and Felina, as well as Canadian-made silks

by Christine.

Lily’s isn’t just bras with matching panties; the shop offers luxurious Canadian-made French silk sleepwear and amazing swimwear from Montreal designer Shan. So, when you are looking for something extraordinary, come to Lily’s. Change your look, change your life. FLH Lily’s Lingerie 5411 Spring Garden Road Halifax 902.422.0161

SPECIAL FEATURE TREND SPOTTING

EXPERTAdvice Creating Custom Jewellery to Last a Lifetime

long-lasting and personal. As a custom designer and builder for almost 40 years, I have discovered that there are a few elements that are essential to creating that eye-catching heirloom.

James Bradshaw James Bradshaw Goldsmith Jewellery Design Studio 1551 Birmingham Street, at Queen Street 902.425.0121 jamesbradshaw@eastlink.ca jamesbradshawgoldsmith.com

B

uying jewellery is one of life’s greatest pleasures. It’s something that people keep in the family for generations—sometimes hundreds of years. For that reason, investing in a piece that truly expresses your unique style is important, as you may wear a well-constructed piece for decades.

But sometimes it can be scary to take that plunge. At roughly $1,600 per ounce, gold is an expensive commodity.

However, backed with the right tips and knowledge, creating a custom-built piece is an exciting adventure that shouldn’t be full of stress.

The trademark of a hand-made custom piece is that it is individual, well-made,

The first step as a client is to research your options. Find a goldsmith who fits with your style and vision. You want to work with a builder who takes the time to learn about you, your lifestyle, and your ideas for the piece. You also want to find a goldsmith who works exclusively with quality materials. Value is something that stems from quality, not price. Ask to hold or try on their sample jewellery; feel its weight. Some places design their works to have centres which are hollow, and, although they may be a bit less expensive, these won’t stand up as well as a solid piece. Also, if you’re interested in white gold, ask if they use rhodium plating. This is similar to putting a chrome coating on the gold to give it a whiter shine. However, the coating wears down and you will need to have it continually replated to maintain its look, which will be more expensive in the long term.

When you decide which goldsmith will create your piece, the next step is to select any gems or stones to be incorporated into the design. For diamonds, bigger isn’t necessarily better.

A really gorgeous 75-point stone that has beautiful fire, an exquisite white

colour and an ideal cut will make people take notice over a larger, mediocre gem. When it comes to jewellery, we can help you find something that is gorgeous within a wide array of budgets.

Stick to a price range with which you are comfortable to alleviate the stress around your purchase.

After selecting the stones, the real fun begins with the sketching and wax model stage. I build all of my custom pieces in wax to provide a threedimensional model that you can try on and envision exactly what the piece will look like before creation. You can feel its weight and see how the stones fit within the piece. Remember that everything you see in the wax model will show up in gold; so, if there are elements you are unhappy with, make sure they are changed before casting.

When you’ve chosen a wax model, the casting process begins. Many people believe that going through the custom process is incredibly time consuming, but it can actually be as short as a couple of weeks before you’re wearing a lovely, hand-made piece that showcases your individuality. Above all, select a quality designer and builder who suits your needs, and your investment should bring you enjoyment for decades to come. FLH James Bradshaw photo by Jennifer Galliott

FineLifestyles

HRM

31

Healing Begins at tHe iWK

Photo Dan Brophy

By Rebecca SchneideReit

I

t began as the Halifax Children’s Hospital in 1909. It later became the Izaak Walton Killam Hospital for Children in 1970; then, the IWK Grace Hospital; then, the IWK Health Centre.

For Maritimers born in the last century, whatever name it’s gone by, the IWK has always been there. But there were periods when its future was uncertain.

“Reports tell a story of continuing struggle for viability—especially for the first 50 years,” says Dr. Alex Gillis, the hospital’s chief of surgery from 1965

32

FineLifestyles

HRM

to 1994. “They had times when they were almost bankrupt.” Yet, the hospital survived, largely thanks to the donors, activists and philanthropists who gave their time and money to help sick children get well. One was Haligonian Marion Morrow, who first envisioned the Halifax Children’s Hospital. Another was O. E. Smith of Morse’s Tea, who willed the IWK 20 per cent of his estate in perpetuity: funds that help support the hospital to this day.

Later, there was Dorothy Johnson Killam, who donated 8 million dollars in memory

of her late husband (for whom the IWK is named.) Myron and Berna Garron’s 10 million dollar donation in 2012—the largest in the IWK’s history—now funds some of its most vital projects. While the IWK’s survival is no longer in question (it’s an internationally recognized treatment and research leader), “we still have a high donor dependency,” Dr. Gillis says.

That’s where the IWK Health Centre Foundation comes in. It’s an independent charitable organization on a permanent quest to raise funds for the hospital. “The unique thing that sets the IWK apart is

that they don’t just treat the patient, they treat the family,” says Jennifer Gillivan, the Foundation’s president, CEO, and executive lead for philanthropy. “It’s an incredible Maritime success story. We’re lucky to have the IWK here, and donors have helped build it.”

Anyone, anytime, can donate to the IWK; it’s a matter of a few clicks on the foundation’s website. But the foundation also organizes large-scale fundraisers, including Bust a Move (a joint effort with the QEII supporting the Breast Health Centre) and Radiothons held in key locations like Charlottetown, Moncton, Saint John and Halifax. Hundreds of third-party events also constantly take place on the IWK’s behalf.

The Foundation’s best-known event may be the annual IWK Telethon for Children on CTV, now in its 29th year. At the 24-hour Telethon, IWK staff, patients, entertainers and volunteers congregate to raise funds for the hospital. Thanks to the generosity of corporate donors, individuals, families and others, last year’s Telethon raised 5.6 million dollars. “Every donation is an important donation, regardless of the amount,” says Jennifer. And, since the Telethon supports urgently required equipment at the IWK, every donation is needed: up-to-date equipment can make a crucial difference in the lives of patients and their families. “Health care is no different from any other kind of industry— it’s changing all the time.”

No Nova Scotian needs to look far to find a family touched by the IWK. HELIDECK PHOTO Sue Siri. BELOW L–R 2011 Telethon. Jacquie Braley and Becky Chapman

The Murchisons are one such family.

Parker Murchison was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in 2010, at age eight. “It’s a parent’s worst nightmare,” Parker’s mother, Brenda, says. Although she discovered that childhood treatment for ALL has a 99 per cent success rate, Parker’s recovery was still a difficult journey. “In the first six months, I think he must have been in the IWK about 72 times.” That initial six-month period was followed by twoand-a-half years of almost biweekly chemotherapy appointments.

Brenda knew from the beginning that she, Parker and the rest of their family— husband Bruce and son Carter—had a long road before them. She was determined they would travel it with hope. “Bruce and I are firm believers [that] how you approach the treatment really affects the outcome. I was really big into ‘let’s make the best of this,’” she says. “There were some dark moments, but not as many as you’d think.”

Brenda credits the staff at the IWK with helping to create an optimistic atmosphere.

“The nurses are so positive. They really listen to you. You never feel rushed or that you’re bothering them,” Brenda explains.

“They just cater to your family as a whole; it’s an institute of excellence.”

A year and a half ago, the Foundation asked Parker to speak at a gala fundraiser.

It was the first time he demonstrated his talent for public speaking (one Brenda never knew he possessed). “He just got up, delivered this great speech; he’s not shy!”

Since then, Parker has spoken at numerous events about his experiences at the IWK and the foundation’s need for funding. “The foundation has been really good because you go to these events, and you become so much more hopeful.”

The Murchisons have good reason to be hopeful: Parker’s chemotherapy finishes on September 15. “There’s going to be a big party,” vows Brenda. After that, the IWK will monitor Parker into adulthood.

Brenda suspects that he will give speeches on the Foundation’s behalf for some time.

“He has learned that he is a great speaker, which we probably wouldn’t have known for another decade,” she says. “It’s going to be interesting to see what he does in 10 or 15 years.” FLH OppOsitE pagE Jennifer Gillivan, Parker Murchison. aBOVE L–R Bruce, Parker, Carter and Brenda Murchison. Karen Butt and Melanie TIbbitts

Above L–R Arlene Tait RMT, Laura Allan, Dr. Lorna Deveau, Heidi Bullen, Keri Malloy RMT

Helping You ReacH YouR peak of HealtH pHotos Natasha Poirier

T

he quote written on the front doors of Peak Energy Chiropractic says it all: “you are now entering a place of positive healing; please take a moment to think of something for which you are grateful.” With a friendly and knowledgeable team, you can’t help but feel at home when you enter and see Dr. Lorna Deveau’s infectious smile.

“Our philosophy has always been to provide a natural solution to health care needs with a large emphasis on education,” explains Dr. Deveau. “All

36

FineLifestyles

HRM

too often our current sick care system is merely set up to relieve symptoms.

This quick fix mentality has contributed to the nation’s current dilemma regarding health care; the patient is rarely involved in the process and the cycle is destined to repeat itself,” she states. At Peak Energy, the team uses scientifically specific techniques to find the cause of a problem. “We use a Socratic method of teaching our patients their responsibility in the healing process, and we always make corrective recommendations.”

By using a dynamic and fresh approach, they help people regain their health naturally and use only the most advanced techniques. “This approach has helped build recognition from doctors in many disciplines of medicine and natural healing to entrust their patients in our care,” says Dr. Deveau. This same accountability that is yielding results has been the reason patients are driving hours from across the province for care.

Dr. Deveau says she didn’t always know she wanted to become a chiropractor.

She knew the human body was amazing, she knew its innate ability to heal fascinated her and she knew that she was destined to become a health professional. “Nutrition and exercise were my first passion. Growing up in a small Acadian fishing village, chiropractic was a foreign term. Now, not only do I get to help people get well, but I also have the opportunity to teach them how to stay well.”

“My dad had an ATV accident when I was six; he went off a cliff into a rock quarry 50 feet below. It was a miracle he survived. However, two surgeries to remove pebbles from his skull, more than two hundred stitches and one unforgiving case of whiplash left him with chronic pain and stiffness.

It wasn’t until 20 years later, when he received treatment with the Spine Align, a computer assisted technique, that he had relief through chiropractic care. From that moment, I knew this was the perfect complement to my kinesiology degree.”

Surprisingly, Dr. Deveau says less than 10 per cent of the population use chiropractic care as a form of health care, and the main reason people avoid it is fear. “I wanted to remove that fear and cultivate a niche that can provide painless, gentle and non-manipulative adjustments to people who don’t know what is available to them. I wanted to do it using the most advanced biomedical technology in chiropractic care.”

Now in its seventh year, Peak Energy Chiropractic has expanded to provide other services, including massage therapy and deep tissue laser therapy (using the Life Force deep tissue laser).

Dr. Deveau and her team care for people of all ages and love to see them leave with a smile. “Chiropractic is not just for celebrities and superstar athletes; it’s for spines of all ages.” FLH

Peak Energy Chiropractic 50 Majesty Court Hammonds Plains 902.446.8100

FineLifestyles

HRM

37

Reclaiming a Full Head oF HaiR

Jocelyn Bajao, hair transplant technician; Dr. Robert Wadden; Donna Doucette, hair transplant technician

By Rebecca SchneideReit pHotos JennifeR Galliott

T

he average human head starts out with over 100,000 hairs. That sounds like a lot—until you realize it’s normal to lose over 100 hairs in a day.

Maybe it’s no surprise, then, that about a quarter of men undergo significant hair loss by age 30; nor that, by the time they’re 75, that number has almost tripled. Ladies don’t escape unscathed either: around 50 per cent of women eventually experience hair loss.

Those aren’t attractive numbers, so here are some that are a little more appealing. Dr. Robert Wadden has been a hair restoration surgeon for 17 years, and has performed over 1,600 hair transplants. If you schedule an appointment at his practice at renü, surgery takes about five hours, and you can be back at work three days later. 95 to 100 per cent of hair transplants are successful, and you’re likely to see noticeable results within three months.

“The whole principle of hair transplantation is the fact that hair demonstrates donor dominance,” Dr. Wadden explains. “The donor region characteristics of the hair follicles are dominant over those of the recipient site,”—that is, permanent hair follicles from a “donor site” at the back of the head retain their longevity when transplanted.

Through a process called “follicular unit grafting,” which uses a technique called “strip harvesting,” Dr. Wadden and his technicians collect groups of hair follicles—“follicular units”—from the back of the head, moving them to a patient’s bald areas. The process creates a full, healthy head of hair, virtually indistinguishable from its natural counterpart. It’s a faster and less expensive option than the follicle-byfollicle alternative known as “follicular

unit extraction” (FUE); it also has a higher follicle survival rate.

The first step for potential hair transplant clients is to book a consultation with Dr. Wadden. This preliminary necessity can be scheduled within a week, and takes half an hour at the most. Once he’s met a patient, Dr. Wadden can determine whether he or she is likely to achieve satisfying results from hair transplant surgery. “Not everyone is a candidate,” Dr. Wadden notes. “I turn away a lot of people.” Very young men whose hair loss is still in its early stages, for example, or men without a sufficient quantity of donor hair, can’t be considered for the surgery. In addition, some hair loss will respond satisfactorily to non-surgical treatments; in such cases, Dr. Wadden is happy to solve a patient’s problem by simply writing a prescription.

FineLifestyles

HRM

39

If you’re a candidate for hair transplant surgery —between the age of 26 and 70, in general good health, with moderate baldness— you can usually schedule an appointment at renü within a month. The procedure itself is minimally invasive, generally requiring no more than a local anaesthetic. “We’re only working at a depth of five to six millimetres;… [patients] feel absolutely nothing,” reports Dr. Wadden.

Furthermore, recovery progresses quickly. Many patients visit renü on a Friday and are comfortably back at work

by Monday. Postoperative scabbing on the scalp may be hidden beneath a hat after three days, and will largely dissipate after about a week. Sutures at the back of the head (where healthy follicles are harvested) can be removed after 12 days, and the slight scar that may remain will be hidden under the hair at the back of the head. “The results are perfectly natural,” says Dr. Wadden. “It’s painless, it’s undetectable and it’s safe.”

Hair transplant surgeons and technicians need to be proficient at more than just the medical aspects of their jobs. After all, nothing reveals a hair transplant faster than hair grafted too low on the forehead; or hair at unnatural angles; or a hairline that is unnaturally, abruptly thick and full. “You’d never see that from me,” says Dr. Wadden. “[Hair transplants are] both artistic and anatomical . . . there’s a little bit of geometry involved.”

Dr. Wadden avoids transplant “giveaways” by treating his work as an art as well as a science. “I start with Michelangelo’s rule of thirds. That’s what he used to paint faces,” he says.

Dr. Wadden will consult his patient as he designs a new hairline; the transplant only proceeds when both are satisfied with the projected results. Dr. Wadden also transplants smaller follicular groups of a single hair closer to the hairline, with fuller hair follicle groups farther back on the head. This creates a more natural, gradually lush effect.

Dr. Wadden, who is also a family physician, has numerous credentials in the hair transplant field. He’s recognized as a diplomat by the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery; he’s a member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery; and he’s

taken various workshops with the World Association of Hair Restorative Surgeons.

Nevertheless, he credits his success not only to his training, but also to his team.

Only about a sixth of trained technicians, after all, can implant hair follicles in a truly flawless manner, but Dr. Wadden’s technicians have been pursuing their trade for almost two decades, and both are now so proficient that they routinely fly to St. John’s, Montreal and Ottawa, where their services are also in demand.

“In this business, your technicians are extremely important,” Dr. Wadden says with pride.

Hair transplants are just one of a range of cosmetic and reconstructive services offered at renü. The attractive, recently renovated clinic (situated on a quiet corner of beautiful Spring Garden Road) offers the expertise of a team of nurses and doctors such as Dr. Robert Wadden, each with their own individual specialty. Services range from surgical and nonsurgical procedures to laser treatments, Botox, fillers, physiciangrade skin care products and more. And, since co-owners Louis Bourget and Phil Cyr are, respectively, a facial surgeon and an oral/maxillofacial surgeon, the clinic is also able to offer sophisticated facial surgeries such as facelifts, nose alterations and dental implants.

Whatever a patient’s needs may be, renü’s staff are devoted to fostering an atmosphere of comfort, privacy and personal attention combined with professional expertise. From the top of your head to the tips of your toes, the staff at renü can help you create an appearance that reflects how bright and confident you feel inside. FLH

Renu Cosmetic + Reconstructive Surgery 5943 Spring Garden Road Halifax 902.492.1586 F: 902.423.2753 reception@feelrenud.ca http://feelrenud.ca

Top lefT and Top RighT Lynn Campagna and Jenny Hubley, reception Middle lefT Judy Boucher and Dr. Louis Bourget

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Destination Sable Island:

PADDLING FOR MENTAL HEALTH

BY TRINA ANNAND PHOTOS JARRETT CORKE

J

an-Sebastian La Perre and Graham Carter believe that outdoor adventure is a fundamental part of childhood and life in general. La Pierre works with at-risk youth, taking them on kayaking and camping trips, while Carter works with youth through the school board. Both men saw an alarming trend: today’s youth lack passion for life and are leading desensitized, sedentary lives. “Back in the day, people only had the great outdoors, they didn’t have TV. Now, people are only experiencing nature through TV, not going out and submerging themselves in it,” says Carter. This realization led the avid kayakers to plan an adventure of their own, kayaking from Canso to Sable Island. The trip, which is over 175 kilometres, will serve as a challenge of endurance for the team as it may take as long as 30 hours to complete, but it will also serve as a platform for their message and fundraising efforts. “This is a lifelong conversation and this is just chapter one. Trying to create opportunities for youth is something we are both very passionate about,” remarks La Pierre.

CLOCKWISE Jan-Sebastian La Perre and Graham Carter practicing for their kayak trip of more than 175km to Sable Island.; Sable Island Pony; photo courtesy of Friends of Sable Island ; L–R Graham Carter and Jan-Sebastian La Perre

La Pierre and Carter hope to raise $25,000 to send at-risk youth to camp.

Once their goal is achieved, at least 25 kids will be going to camp to experience adventures of their own.

Through a partnership between Brigadoon Children’s Camp Society and Chisholm Youth Services, a camp for youth with a connection to mental health issues is being created. Brigadoon is known for its work with youth and families living with chronic illness or special needs.

Chisholm is a long-term care program which specializes in early intervention for youth facing adversities such as neglect and abuse. The partnership seemed like a natural choice: creating a camp that is the first of its kind in Nova Scotia. “Mental health is not necessarily something you have to struggle with your whole life. You can use lifestyle changes or becoming more in tune with nature as a way to feel better,” says Carter.

“In the spectrum of health related issues, it is simpler to raise money for kids with cancer and diabetes—things that are physical. We want to show these kids

that they have a way out, and maybe it’s outside,” remarks La Pierre. He is a strong proponent of what being out in nature can do for the human spirit. La Pierre grew up in Herring Cove, spending his days on or in the ocean. Carter moved to Nova Scotia three years ago.

After hearing impassioned stories about Sable Island and learning to kayak from La Pierre, he was hooked. Both La Pierre and Carter offer summer kayaking tours to locals and tourists alike. “Growing up, Sable Island seemed like a place that was literally a different planet, but also was so close. It seemed just outside the grasp of your imagination, shrouded in mystery, fog and shipwrecks,” remarks La Pierre.

The trip itself is planned for the second week of August, weather permitting.

August is usually when the weather is best and the water is warmest in the Maritimes. Accompanying the duo will be their trusty videographer, friend and tech guru, Jarrett Corke. “We’re the arms of the operation and he’s the brains,” chuckles Carter and La Pierre. The fruits

of Corke’s labours will be turned into a documentary that will be entered in various film festivals and will further spread the team’s message of raising funds and awareness. Corke will also be facilitating live tracking of the journey on the duo’s website for viewers who want to follow the progress.

“We’re not saying everyone needs to paddle to Sable Island. Adventure is about getting excited about being outside,” says Carter. For La Pierre and Carter, the kayak trip and fulfilling of a childhood dream is merely a canvass with which to get people thinking about mental health and social changes.

“Adventure in your lifestyle is wholly important to us, and it should be to you.

To define adventure, I mean endeavor in your life that isn’t necessarily easy. To have an adventure, climb a mountain, to paddle to Sable or something small like just being out in the forest. If it’s difficult, it lends itself to be more rewarding,” states La Pierre. FLH To learn more visit: www.paddle2sable.ca

FineLifestyles

HRM

43

EXPERTAdvice Adult Orthodontics: Am I Too Old to Straighten My Teeth or Fix My Bite?

space for that implant or those veneers you’ve always wanted. Or maybe you have an underbite or overbite that you wish you had fixed in your childhood.

Now, you are wondering, “Am I too old for braces?” The answer is no! In fact, more and more adults between the ages of 21 and 70 are seeking orthodontics.

By Dr. Magda Barnard Bedford Orthodontics Sunnyside Mall, Suite 206 1595 Bedford Hwy Bedford 902.835.6531 www.bedfordortho.com

Approximately one in three patients visiting an orthodontist’s office is an adult.

A study by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) shows that one third of adults are unhappy with their smile, and 36 per cent believe their social life would improve with a better smile.

We know that orthodontics is just as successful in adults as it is in children and teens. However, adult orthodontics differ in some ways.

Adults have older teeth and gums. There may be more fillings and bridgework present than we would see in an average teenager. These dental features are not an issue: braces and attachments can be easily bonded to crowns and fillings without damaging the dental work or reducing the effectiveness of the braces.

How do orthodontics differ in adults from children or teenagers?

P

erhaps you have a few teeth that are just a bit (or quite) crooked.

Perhaps you had braces as a teen, but you didn’t wear your retainers, and now the crowding has returned. Maybe you have a problem with your bite, or your dentist says there isn’t enough

44

FineLifestyles

HRM

Gum disease also tends to be more prevalent in adults. Dental cleanings and checkups are always important for any patient, which means if you have braces as an adult you need to see your dentist regularly (which you should be doing anyway). Gum disease must be under control braces start, whether you are a child or an adult. Your orthodontist will check carefully for any signs of gum disease at the initial consultation and

may refer you to your dentist or a gum specialist if there are concerns.

Severe bite issues may be corrected differently in an adult, since the jaw bones are no longer growing. An adult with severe bite discrepancies is more likely to be treated with braces in combination with technological advance (such as temporary anchorage devices) or jaw surgery, whereas a child or teen would most likely be treated with braces and growth modification. Some adults, given these options, chose to align teeth and proceed with orthodontics that camouflage the bite issues in order to avoid jaw surgery or more complicated orthodontics. Regardless of which way you decide to proceed, you can achieve functional and aesthetically appealing results in adulthood.

Also, as an adult, you may have had previous orthodontics treatment.

Patients may worry that another round of orthodontics could be harmful for the teeth or that if they go ahead with braces a second time, that teeth may crowd again over time. Rest assured, there are no issues with re-treatment, as long as the teeth and gums are healthy. Also, we know that retainers maintain the alignment that braces or Invisalign create indefinitely.

Retainers are comfortable, removable appliances which can be transparent.

Speaking of transparency, in our next article, we will review clear options to straighten teeth along with some advances in technology that shorten overall treatment and reduce your time in the orthodontist’s chair. FLH

Did you know many golfers, both amateur and professional, go to a doctor of chiropractic to help them get rid of pain, improve their alignment and performance and/or to try to avoid injuries?

Getting Prepared for Golf Season

If you’re a golfer, try answering the following questions: Do you have pain in your back or joints, like the ankles, knees, hips, wrists, elbows or shoulders? ¨ yes ¨ no Do you have reduced head rotation in either direction? ¨ yes ¨ no Do you have reduced upper torso rotation to either side? ¨ yes ¨ no Do you have reduced movement to laterally flex the upper torso to either side? ¨ yes ¨ no Do you have reduced movement of at least one shoulder or wrist area? ¨ yes ¨ no

Dr. Tasia Lazaros Practicing chiropractor since 2000 Healthy Link Chiropractic Suite 201-362 Lacewood Drive Halifax 902.446.5465 drtasialazaros@hotmail.com www.healthylinkwellness.ca

Do you have pressure or pain at the base of the skull or frequent headaches? ¨ yes ¨ no

One tip for amateur weekend golfers who sit a lot throughout the week is to sit on a proper height exercise ball with good, upright posture to help stengthen the core muscles while working.

Do you have reduced ankle movement and/or flat feet? ¨ yes ¨ no

More tips to consider before hitting the greens:

If you answered yes to at least one of the above questions, then it may be advisable to see a doctor of chiropractic.

Most people don’t realize that reduced movement can also be an important indicator to seek care besides just experiencing pain.

W

Did you know?

So, is your body ready for golf season?

Have you been at your office desk all winter with very little activity? Golfers that only play on the weekend after a long, sedentary work week without much conditioning are the highest at risk for injury.

The golf swing is something every golfer strives to improve and master, but were you aware that going to a doctor of chiropractic may help improve your golf swing and lessen the chance of injury? The posture of the golfer greatly influences the mechanics of the golf swing. Usually, poor posture is accompanied by restricted mechanics and movement of the spine and joints, as well as poor flexibility and tight muscles. With the proper care, not only will it help reduce the repetitive stress or strain injuries, but it will also likely produce long and powerful golf shots.

ith more than 50 majestic golf courses in Nova Scotia, it’s no secret why people are turning to golf for both exercise and to enjoy the outdoors. Golf can be a lot of fun for men, women and children, but it also has a high rate of repetitive strain and sprain injuries to the back, wrist, elbow and shoulder.

1. Stretch regularly.

2. Partake in cardiovascular activities.

3. Seek professional help (e.g., chiropractic care) for your aches and pains.

4. Practice visualization of where the golf ball will travel.

5. Strengthen the core muscles.

6. Invest in lessons for proper golf swing technique.

7. Seek chiropractic care for a golf spinal checkup.

So, when you reflect on your round of golf, think about stretching, hydrating and staying focused while having fun.

Regular chiropractic visits can help restore and maintain alignment as well as restore balance and movement of the body parts involved with golf, helping you to enjoy a full and pleasurable golf season. FLH

FineLifestyles

HRM

45

PEGGI’S STORY Loving Her Life Again

M

ost people viewed me as confident, but I knew it was all fake. I dealt with a lot of medical issues, depression, chronic pain, and I experienced a lot of discomfort just trying to get out and exercise.

My mom remembers me coming home at 12 crying because I couldn’t borrow my friend’s clothes. I was devastated.

Prior to my surgery, I did about eight months of research, where I found out that this clinic is recognized internationally as one of the top 10 bariatric clinics and that they had the soughtafter recognition gnition of being ing named a Centre of Excellence. Dr. Pompa’s pushed me the rest of the ’s excellent credentials cre way, and now, I couldn’t ouldn’t be b happier.

Peggi, from Fredericton, NB, before losing 122lbs with Weight Loss Forever

I couldn’t ouldn’t believe lieve how amazing everyone everyone w was. Dr. Pompa Po is the most amazin amazing person in the entire world; she’s so kind, compassionate and knowledgeable. The hospital is remarkable, and has more of a spa-like atmosphere.

Everything has been fantastic. I’m euphoric; I’m happy all the time. I wake up looking forward to the day as opposed to dreading it. I’m not scared of the camera anymore, I go out with my friends way more often and I’m not scared of going out in public or ashamed to eat in a restaurant. The best part is — it’s not a diet and it’s permanent.

The support system at Weight Loss Forever is one of a kind. There is nothing else like it out there, everyone puts their heart and soul into it and that’s why it works.

There are no words that will ever truly explain my gratitude to the staff. Thank you for empowering me to take back my life. Thank you for giving me back me.

Now, I’m wearing smaller clothes than I wore when I came home crying to my mother at 12. It’s a wonderful feeling.

Love Your Life!

Call us today! 506.472.3214 or Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 155 Smythe Street Fredericton, NB

www.weightlossforever.ca

for

Safety

Choose

Pictured above: Dr. Liza Pompa, MD, PhD, AFACS

Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, World’s First Female Bariatric Surgeon of Excellence Recognized in Newsweek as one of the top 15 Bariatric Surgeons Worldwide.

www.weightlossforever.ca TOLL FREE: 1-877-306-8891

Calgary

|

Edmonton

|

Lethbridge

|

Saskatoon

|

Regina

|

Fredericton

EXPERTAdvice Facial Rejuvenation in the Maritimes

JoAnne Whynott Clinical Director and Nurse Specialist The Landings Surgical Centre 1477 Lower Water Street Halifax 902.492.2007 www.landingsurgery.ca

I

t was Coco Chanel who wisely quoted, “Nature gives you the face you have at 20; it is up to you to merit the face you have at 50.” So, when people ask me if facial rejuvenation is right for them, my answer is simple: yes. Life is a journey and our bodies are on this journey with us. We invest in our health, wardrobes, hairstyling and the maintenance of our homes and properties, why wouldn’t we invest in our skin? So much of our time is invested into our families, careers and communities that it’s easy to forget about ourselves. Then, one day, we look in the mirror and realize that the hustle and bustle of our busy lives has been etched all over our face. Everyone reaches that stage when the glow of

48

FineLifestyles

HRM

youth begins to fade and you look older than you feel. Thankfully, advances in science and medicine can help our outside appearance match the youthful person inside.

Can you comment on facial aging and how you treat it?

Many factors contribute to the way age manifests itself on the human body. Some of these factors are within our control, and others at the hand of mother nature.

Intrinsic aging (our natural continuous aging process) begins to manifest in our mid-20s and is driven primarily by our genetics. Our skin cell renewal slows down, and we produce less collagen and elastin. As a result, we start to see the formation of fine lines, our skin becomes thin and transparent and volume is lost around the eyes, lips and cheeks. We also undergo extrinsic aging. This type of aging is caused by external factors such as pollution, smoking, alcohol, deprived sleep and, most damaging, sun exposure. When the skin comes into contact with a lot of UV rays, it causes it to lose its elasticity

and collagen, resulting in sagging, dull skin.

Additionally, UV rays create fine lines and premature wrinkles, as well as leathering of the skin. As if all these factors weren’t enough, we need to contend with the everpresent effects of gravity.

There are many misconceptions today regarding facial rejuvenation. When people think of Botox® and fillers, popular culture is unfortunately the primary frame of reference; flashes of the Housewives of Vancouver, duck lips and frozen faces that characterize the overthe-top, over-corrected Hollywood hits and misses. It’s this stigma that prevents many from seeking treatment. Most of us want people to notice that we look younger, but not know our secret.

What are fillers and Botox®, and how do they work?

Botox® injections are most popular in men and women from late-20s to 70s.

Botox® can be used as both a preventative measure and reactionary strategy to address fine lines and wrinkles. It is a

with less bruising, swelling, pain and downtime than conventional needles.

They are very effective and safe for dermal filler placement over a large area from a single entry point, resulting in greater client satisfaction. The best results are always achieved in the hands of a highly-trained and experienced injector. For the past six years, we have had a highly successful injection practice at the Landings Surgical Centre, working with two extremely skilled, boardcertified plastic surgeons: Dr. Richard Bendor-Samuel and Dr. Louis O Boileau.

We offer the highest quality surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic treatments for the face, breast, body and skin.

Before | After (at day 7) | After (at day 14)

quick and virtually painless process with the procedure taking approximately 10 to 15 minutes. There is no down time after a Botox® injection; a treatment can easily be completed on a lunch break. The cost of treatment varies, depending on the area and the amount of product required. The central forehead frown lines are the most commonly treated area and typically costs anywhere from $288 to $400. While the results are not immediate, they will start to manifest within a few days, with full effect within two weeks. The longevity of the treatment is client specific, but the average client will see effects lasting for roughly four months.

Dermal fillers on the other hand, are injectable gels that provide greater fullness to the face, plump lips, enhance shallow contours and soften facial creases and wrinkles. The most common brands— Juvéderm™, Restylane® and Perlane®— are made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring complex sugar found in most human tissue. While it can take up to two weeks to see the full effects of Botox®, you achieve instant results with dermal filler.

The results continue to improve over the following weeks. The duration of fillers can last anywhere from six to eight months before requiring touch-up treatments. By maintaining this routine, added longevity can be achieved, as the results are cumulative over time. As with Botox®, the cost of treatment varies significantly from client to client, but the average treatment range for dermal filler is from $500 to $1,800. They can be used independently or in conjunction with Botox®, depending on the desired outcome.

I’ve heard that the Landings Surgical Centre is on the cutting edge of these treatments, can you elaborate?

Facial rejuvenation and skin care have never been so advanced. A newer technique for administering facial filler has revolutionized the way fillers are being administered. The Cannula Technique uses a blunt tip microcannula in place of the traditional hypodermic needle. It’s an innovative addition designed to provide excellent results

It is important to know who is injecting you. Ask about their experience: do they do it every day? Are the treatments in a medical setting with safe and sterile conditions? Are the syringes sold as half syringes risking infection? Be wary of discount prices and at-home parties where half syringes may be used on more than one client. With experience comes knowledge of which areas and amounts of product work best to achieve a natural-looking result that lasts as long as possible. I don’t believe in overcorrecting; I enhance the natural beauty of my clients.

When you feel beautiful on the outside, you feel beautiful on the inside. In my experience, when clients leave the office after Botox® or dermal filler, they feel more confident, happy and uplifted about their appearance. Here, at the Landings Surgical Centre, we not only restore client’s youthful appearances, but teach them how to protect their investment.

You only live once; take control of the skin you’re in. FLH JoAnne Whynott is the clinic director/nurse specialist at the Landings Surgical Centre, and is on the leading edge of non-surgical revitalization techniques. With almost 30 years of experience as a registered nurse, she became the first and only nurse in Canada to have a Delegated Medical Function approval from the College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia/College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia for the purpose of injecting Botox®. JoAnne is also a senior technical aesthetic trainer, educating nurses and physicians on the latest injection techniques.

FineLifestyles

HRM

49

opposite l–r Devera Giles, Jaime Bowie

RestoRing Clients’ ConfidenCe

By Rebecca SchneideReit Photos tom england

A

t first glance, Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics on Market Street looks like a standard salon.

A sidewalk sign advertises weekly specials, such as 15-dollar manicures on “Mani Monday.” The interior is a cool cucumber green. But once you notice the wigs on display—or that the space is divided into private rooms—you’ll realize the special role Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics plays in Halifax: addressing hair loss issues and helping male and female clients of all ages regain the comfort and confidence bestowed by a full head of hair.

50

FineLifestyles

HRM

“I deal with anything and everything in hair loss,” says Devera Graves, the salon’s resident stylist. Devera has practiced her trade for almost 30 years, addressing issues such as thinning hair, fine hair and hair loss from chemotherapy, trichotillomania, alopecia and other medical causes.

“I wanted to create everything I possibly could under one roof for [the clients],” Devera says of her decision to open Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics. “I want it to be one-stop shopping.”

At the salon, Devera helps clients choose between hair loss solutions, including wigs, hair prosthetics (which can be ordered on-site,) and hair transplants (which Devera hopes Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics will offer on-location by midsummer.) She also performs wig fittings, styles clients’ wigs and teaches them how to achieve the same look at home. Should clients’ hair return, Devera styles the natural regrowth as well.

To her customers, Devera is more than a stylist—she’s a sounding board,

confidante and ally. “I see an average of four chemo clients a day,” she says.

“You’re not just dealing with their hair; you’re feeling and hearing everything that’s going on. I just want to be able to help.”

Devera is one half of Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics’ professional team. The other key player at the salon is Jaime Bowie, master esthetician. Jaime’s been in the business for 16 years, and she offers traditional esthetic treatments at the salon, including manicures, pedicures, facials, body wraps and more. (She recommends facials to those who have never enjoyed one: “It’s amazing. You feel good from head to toe.”) Jaime, like Devera, also offers services beyond the scope of standard beauty treatments to her clientele. She’s a certified technician who operates the SharpLight™ laser machine at Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics.

Lasers have long been used for hair removal, and Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics does offer a range of laser hair reduction services. It’s less widely known, however, that other laser treatments are available, including “skin rejuvenation,” which is a kind of laser facial. “The beam of light goes down into the dermis, and it jumpstarts the collagen,” Jaime explains. “After age 25,

the collagen depletes.” Skin rejuvenation minimizes fine lines and wrinkles and “gives a nice youthful glow to the skin.”

The laser machine can also be used to minimize vascular pigmentation, such as sunspots and the “pregnancy mask” known as melisma, as well as to treat acne. Jaime takes extensive safety precautions before beginning any laser service: clients fill out a multipage form to determine their suitability for laser treatment, and Jaime also performs a laser spot test to assure favourable results.

Jaime and Devera may be a two-woman team, but between them, they offer a range of services at Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics to rival any larger salon. They’re also dedicated to accommodating clients with special requests—whatever those might be— with discretion, positivity and empathy.

At Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics, everybody is welcome: feeling attractive inside and out is as simple as making an appointment. FLH Ultra Hair Solutions & Esthetics 1770 Market St Halifax 902.429.8300 info@ultrahair.ca www.ultrahair.ca

FineLifestyles

HRM

51

HMCS Sackville, CANADA’S NAVAL MEMORIAL

BY LEN CANFIELD PHOTO PAT JESSUP

T

he 205-foot HMCS Sackville may not attract the same attention as the larger naval ships in Halifax Harbour or visiting tall ships, but few have a more interesting history than the iconic World War ll corvette.

Sackville is the last of the 269 corvettes built by the Allied navies during WW ll, 123 of which served in the Royal Canadian Navy. They formed the core of ocean escort groups defending convoys of merchant ships from deadly U-boat attacks during the Battle of the Atlantic.

Winston Churchill said the Battle of the Atlantic was “…the dominant factor

throughout the war” and described the corvettes as the “cheap, but nasties.”

On any given day during the hostilities, dozens of merchant ships carrying food and other vital war supplies departed Halifax and other east coast ports for the U.K. Sackville and her sister ships played a significant role in defending the convoys and ensuring Allied victory in the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest battle of WW ll.

Sackville, with a crew of 85, was built in Saint John, New Brunswick. She was commissioned in December 1941 and

named after the town of Sackville in that province. She served in several well-known escort groups operating between St. John’s, Newfoundland and Londonderry, Ireland.

From January 1942 to August 1944, she was one of the original members of the famous Barber Pole Group, which was aptly named for the red-and-white stripes painted on the funnel.

The Flower Class corvette’s most memorable engagement occurred in early August 1942 near the Grand Banks when she engaged three U-boats in a 24-hour period and put two out of action before they were able to escape.

TOP LEFT AND CENTER The Royal Visit when Her Majesty the Queen unveiled the plaque for HMCS Sackville during the Royal Canadian Navy’s Centennial in June 2010. BOTTOM LEFT Photo of children by Don Lowther.

In September 1943, Sackville was part of another escort group defending a west-bound convoy that was attacked

by U-boats. Several merchant ships and four escorts, including the destroyer HMCS St. Croix, were torpedoed and lost, all with heavy loss of life. During the enemy attack, Sackville was rocked by an explosion that severely damaged her forward boiler, probably caused by one of her depth charges detonating a torpedo at close range.

Later, when efforts to make repairs to the boiler were unsuccessful, Sackville was taken out of active service and used as a training ship and harbour loop layer. The latter involved a network of indicator loops (electrical cables) placed in approaches to Halifax and other major harbours to detect passage of a ship and were part of wartime port defences.

54

FineLifestyles

HRM

After cessation of hostilities, Canada’s other corvettes were sold to different navies or scrapped, but Sackville was held in reserve. In the early 1950s Sackville was converted, and she continued to serve as a naval and civilian oceanographic research vessel until she was paid off three decades later.

In 1983, the Naval Officers Association of Canada took the lead and established the volunteer Canadian Naval Memorial Trust (CNMT) to acquire and restore Sackville to her wartime configuration. The mission of CNMT, with more than 1,000 trustees in Canada and abroad, is to promote naval heritage through preservation of Sackville as a symbol of defining national achievement as well as honouring those who served or gave their lives in service to Canada.

Two years later, the Government of Canada designated HMCS Sackville the

National Naval Memorial to recognize the 2,000 sailors who lost their lives at sea and to honour all generations of Canadian sailors.

Sackville is an enduring symbol of extraordinary national accomplishment and of the effort and sacrifice made by hundreds of thousands of Canadians from all walks of life who gave of themselves or their lives in service to Canada. In the case of the RCN, it expanded from 3,500 regular and reserve members and a dozen ships in 1939 to 100,000 members and more than 400 ships by 1945.

In June 2010, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, visited Sackville during the international fleet review in Halifax and unveiled a plaque to mark the significance of Canada’s Naval Memorial. In August 2011, Governor General David Johnston toured the ship

TOP RIGHT The Annual Battle of the Atlantic Ceremony. BOTTOM ROW L–R Sailor’s monument at Sackville Landing.

Photo of children by Don Lowther.

and met with veterans and other trustees.

His Excellency is patron of the CNMT.

will keep this important story alive for future generations.”

As time and the elements take their toll on the 71-year-old Sackville, the CNMT has undertaken the Battle of Atlantic Place project on the Halifax waterfront near the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. The long-term project consists of three major functions: to preserve Sackville under cover in a saltwater dock; to act as a memorial to honour the 4,000 members of the RCN and Merchant Navy who lost their lives, and who have no known graves; and to tell the story of the commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who served along with the civilians who supported the war effort.

The project received a major boost in March when defence minister Peter MacKay announced a $240,000 contribution towards the architectural design phase. Contributions towards this section of the project have also been received from the Nova Scotia Government, Halifax Regional Municipality as well as corporations and private donors.

Retired Commodore Cal Mofford, chair of the CNMT says, “…as trustees, we are proud to be advancing a project that

Trustees envision Battle of Atlantic Place as a visually compelling, unique architectural design that defines Halifax and Canada.

The anticipated opening is 2017: the 150th anniversary of confederation.

Telling the story of HMCS Sackville is an important part of the project and the day-to-day routine of retired Lieutenant Commander and Commanding Officer,

Jim Reddy, as well as other trustees and volunteers who welcome visitors at the ship’s summer berth next to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Throughout the year, Sackville supports various naval, youth, community and corporate events and activities. In the winter, the ship is berthed in HMC dockyard.

“Through guided tours, artifacts and audiovisual presentations, visitors of all ages can experience life aboard a Flower Class corvette during the war and learn of the role of the RCN,” LCdr Reddy explains.

As for visitors, you never know who you may meet: anyone from royalty, senior naval and political leaders or corporate executives to cruise ship passengers, veterans and youth groups. For more information, visit: www.canadasnavalmemorial.ca. FLH

FineLifestyles

HRM

55

Local Chef Takes on the

World

By Rebecca SchneideReit Photos bRuce JollimoRe

L–R Brenan Madill, Luis Clavel and Anthony Pittoello

L

a Chaîne des Rôtisseurs’ 2012 National Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs competition was held last October.

Everything was going smoothly for second-time competitor Brenan Madill as he started cooking. Then he smelled something burning. Yanking open the oven, Madill discovered that his lemon cake was way past overdone. “It was, like, jet black,” he winces.

Madill’s oven had been improperly calibrated and he was allowed to switch, but he still had to prepare a dessert course, and there wasn’t time for another cake. “I’m sitting there thinking, what are my ingredients? What can I do?” Madill recalls. He stayed focused, grabbed a ladle.

“Sometimes you can make something out of nothing … Very carefully, I scraped the top layer of the cake off.” Cutting the remainder into strips and layering those with honey syrup, Madill held his breath and sent the improvised confection to

the judges. “It worked out really well,” he laughs—so well that he won. Come September, he’ll represent Canada at the International Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs competition in Istanbul, Turkey.

Madill is young (Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs competitors must be under 27), but his culinary lineage goes back to a grandfather who opened one of Toronto’s first butcher shops. “I was just sort of born into food.”

He paid his dues: first as a dishwasher, then helping out on the cold line and the deep fryer at Bedford’s Lobster Ranch. That was where chef David Whalen, as Madill puts it, “opened my eyes up to food. I then decided that was what I was going to do.”

Madill’s professional path took him to schools, restaurants and training programs nationwide. After a year of culinary arts at NSCC, he studied under master chef and Chaîne member, Takashi Murakami. He was then invited by Luis Clavel, Chaîne member and now executive chef at the

Atlantica Hotel Halifax, to join the Holiday Inn Harbourview team as sous chef. “Who hires a second-year student as a sous chef?” Clavel chuckles now. But, he says, “I knew right off the bat that it wasn’t a bad decision … the discipline and passion Madill showcased were very impressive.”

Between Madill and Clavel, there already lies a veritable trophy room of culinary awards. But as Madill prepares for the competition in Istanbul, Clavel is coaching him as rigorously as if this contest were his first. “I bring extremely hard products for him to work with,” explains Clavel. “Eel, sea urchin, skate wing, rabbit; things that you would never usually see.” Madill feels the pressure, but he knows it comes with the territory. Besides, he laughs, “I always had a competitive edge from playing soccer.”

The unflagging professional support he receives from Atlantica’s team (particularly General Manager Aly Rehemtulla, who is also a Chaîne member) and Seasons by

FineLifestyles

HRM

57

Atlantica’s culinary and service teams helps, too. “I’m working with, essentially, my sisters and my brothers,” says Madill.

Madill’s culinary style relies on layered herbs and spices, an appreciation of pastry (“pastry is really a lost art”) and umami flavours. “People don’t even really realize what it is … in this part of the world,” Madill says of umami, which is the hearty, savoury foods like miso, mushroom and tomato. In competition, he strikes a balance between demonstrating his mastery of cooking fundamentals and making sure his dishes have style and personality. “You’re always going for that ‘wow’ effect.”

David Tetrault is the Bailli Délégué of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs’ Canada branch.

He also manages the International Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs competition, which, he explains, is a genuine “black box.” That is, the available ingredients are revealed to the chefs only when the competition begins.

“They would know nothing walking in the door,” says David. That constraint, in addition to the strict 3.5 hour time limit, makes the event a challenge to even internationally qualified chefs.

Canada has won first place in this competition only twice. Usually, David says, European countries like Scandinavia or Germany have an edge. “They start earlier, and they’re very dedicated to their craft.” But he’s quick to speak up for Canadian cuisine. “The talent of the Canadian chef is recognized internationally more and more,” he says. “Myself and others from North America have been to Europe a lot with the Chaîne, and have had a lot of fantastic dinners there… and we would easily put our top Canadian chefs up against any of their professional chefs.” Of Madill (whose cooking David tasted once, two years ago), he says simply, “he’s a very talented young man.”

Madill dreams of someday opening his own restaurant where the menu changes monthly, even weekly. “What are you going to come in and eat? Is it going to be French food? Is it going to be Italian?” Madill grins.

He believes that respect for Maritime folk cuisine, such as the ubiquitous boiled lobster and baked potato, can exist alongside culinary innovation. “We want to do the same ingredients you do in a lobster dinner, but in different ways,” he says. “It’s all about pushing the limit.” FLH

Fresh summer sensations NOT JUST BEAUTIFUL, NOT JUST BEAUTIFUL, BUT EDIBLETOO TOO BUT EDIBLE

By Tobie HainsTock

I

t’s summertime! Enjoy the warmth of the season with cool, refreshing fruits from Edible Arrangements.

Tempt your taste buds with delicious summer flavours such as mango, kiwi and watermelon.

“I love you,” “I’m sorry,” “congratulations” or whatever message you wish to send.

Ryan a

Ryan and K whene whenever bouquea bouquets

“We spen “We sp sure that sure thw says Ryan.

says Ry

BY AETHNE HINCHLIFFE PHOTOS NATASHA POIRIER

AETHNE NATASHA POIRIER If you BY need it in HINCHLIFFE a hurry, ask PHOTOS the Available f Consisting entirely of fruit, the bouquets quick glance at a bouquet from accommodating staff at Edible Availab day delive Consisting entirely of fruit, the bouquets quick glance at a bouquet from Edible Arrangements might can be designed for any occasion. Edible Arrangements about same-day service. day de fruit good suggest a also floraloffers arrangement.

Edible Arrangements might designed for any occasion.

Edible Arrangements provides many options, Edible Arrangements delivery can be ready to be fruit go However, there’sarrangement. something a little suggest a floral including fruit arrangements dippedprovides manyor options, These all-natural and gluten-free service. With the only refrigerated truck Arrangements and familyt different about these bouquets.

The ready fruit platters and boxes. Arrangements However, there’s a little arrangements make a beautiful and in the area, something youdon’t knowjustyou will including fruit arrangements or dippedarrangements lookorder beautiful, andcan fam can be specific to birthdays, weddings, differentarrive about these bouquets.

The thoughtful gift for anyone.

“Edible “You butfresh theyand alsotasty. taste delicious because fruit platters and boxes. Arrangements anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, arrangements don’t just look beautiful, Arrangements are the perfect dipped in they’re made with fresh fruit. can be specific “You c Mother’s Day to andbirthdays, other major weddings, holidays. you’re celebrating Canada combination of food and flower,” says decadent but theyWhether also taste delicious because Day, Natal Day fruit. or any day, choose anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, dipped manager, Ryan McMahan. As beautiful healthy,” s they’re made with fresh Ryan McMahan and his wife, Kim Cantaloupe, strawberries, Mother’s Day andhoneydew, other major holidays.

Edible Arrangements for a fresh and as they are tasty, Edible Arrangements decade McMahan, whose roots are from the pineapple, grapes, along with Edible Arra flavourful choice. are ideal for holidays, anniversaries, Maritimes, werehis looking for Kim something healthy chocolate-covered apples, oranges and Ryan McMahan and wife, Cantaloupe, honeydew, strawberries, Fridays 8 a birthdays, reunions, picnics and more. fresh and healthy. That’s how Lacewood bananas adorn the festive bouquets Ryan McMahan, manager to 5 p.m. a McMahan, whosejust roots are minutes from began the from Located five Edible Arrangements make delicious Drive’s Edible Arrangements five pineapple, grapes, along with Edible year-round. During the winter, Ryan and Maritimes, were looking for something downtown at 278 Lacewood Drive, years ago. hostess gift alternatives for parties, chocolate-covered apples, oranges and Fridays Kim feature pear, while in the summer, Ryan and Kim use locally-grown products Arrangements is open every fresh andEdible healthy.

That’s how Lacewood barbecues or any gathering. bananas adorn the festive bouquets Edible Arrangement’s bouquets might Edible Arrangements “People look at the bouquets and are just day for your shopping convenience. whenever possible, and the fresh jovial to 5 p.m Drive’s Edible Arrangements began five During the winter, Ryankiwi and glow with the colours of Lacewood mango, amazed that you do thatatwithwww. fruit,” year-round.

278 Check them out can online Looking for something rich and full years of ago. bouquets are made in-store daily. Drive and watermelon. says Ryan.

Halifax ediblearrangments.ca for a full view Kim feature pear, while in the summer, amazing flavours? Edible Arrangements 902.404.3404 might of the many gorgeous andjust mouth- Edible Arrangement’s bouquets offers lusciously stunning arrangements, “People look at the bouquets and are “We spend a lot of time trying to make www.ediblearrangements.ca arrangements available. which include decadent chocolate of mango, kiwi amazed watering that you can do that with fruit,” Be glow with the colours sure that we get the best fruit possible,” dipped fruit. The perfect way to say, sure to like them on Facebook! FLH and watermelon. says Ryan.

AA

NOT JUST BEAUTIFUL, BUT EDIBLE TOO

says Ryan.

BY AETHNE HINCHLIFFE PHOTOS NATASHA POIRIER

quick glance at a bouquet from Edible Arrangements might

Consisting entirely of fruit, the bouquets

Available for immediate pick up or sameFineLifestyles 59 day delivery, Edible Arrangement’s freshHRM

Seal of approval: freSh

By Rebecca SchneideReit photoS nataSha PoiRieR

R

ight away, you can notice something special about Acadian Fish & Chips. It might be the miniature lighthouse outside the door; it might be the sunny, spacious dining area, with its pine-and-cedar panelling and floor tiled to resemble an Acadian flag; or it might be the warm smiles of owners Don and Evelyn LeBlanc. But somehow, it’s no surprise to discover that Acadian Fish & Chips serves up some of the freshest, flakiest fish in Halifax.

They only opened last December, but you could say that Acadian Fish & Chips was in the works for decades. “It was my father that loved fish and chips, back in the day,” reminisces Don, who’s been in the restaurant trade since 1979. He

60

FineLifestyles

HRM

and Evelyn decided to open Acadian Fish & Chips after moving to the Hammonds Plains area and noting the dearth of dining options. “There was something missing here in Hammonds Plains . . . we decided, ‘if we don’t do it, someone else is going to do it.’ So we did it,” Evelyn chimes. They did all of it: Don built the restaurant, in his words, “from the foundation up.”

Acadian Fish & Chips is now making a name for itself serving fresh Georges Bank haddock: Don and Evelyn sampled innumerable fillets before settling on this source, and it shows. “When it flakes off, it’s like salmon,” Don says. The rest of the menu is, likewise, sourced locally: Digby clams and scallops, as well as Eastern

shore lobster. “We need to have the best of all that’s local,” Don says firmly, “the best of each field.”

There’s no need to hide fish that appealing under too much crusting, so Don and Evelyn keep the batter simple. “It’s light and crispy . . . the fish is not disguised by the batter,” says Evelyn. “When [customers] break into it, it’s all fish, and it’s fresh fish.” Their lobster rolls and lobster chowder are equally hearty: each bowl, each roll, contains all of the claw and tail meat from a full one-pounder. “You will see chunks of lobster,” Don vows.

The rest of the menu is just as mouthwatering. Hamburger patties are

ABOVE L–R Evelyn and Donnie LeBlanc, owners

homemade, with buns from a local bakery; onion rings are made with red onions; hot dogs are a full 12 inches. “You should see their eyes when they see that hot dog,” Evelyn says with a laugh. As for the condiments, the coleslaw, FrenchCanadian style gravy, curry mayo and tartar sauce are all homemade.

Over the summer months, Acadian Fish & Chips will dish up scoops of ice cream from the miniature lighthouse, as well as provide a patio so customers can bask in the sun. The extra seating comes just in time, since as word of mouth spreads, Don and Evelyn keep getting busier.

“We’re overwhelmed by the support that we’re getting,” Evelyn says. “[Customers] are going out the door saying ‘we’ll be back.’” The pair make continual efforts to thank the community that has greeted them so warmly, sponsoring a local baseball team, hockey players and UFC fighter Roger Hollett, who is “a true sportsman and great customer.”

Don’s recipe for success goes as follows: “We try to put the best product together, the best way we know.” That simple approach is already reeling customers in. Drop into Acadian Fish & Chips now, and in 10 years, you can tell everyone you discovered them first. FLH

Acadian Fish & Chips 1990 Hammonds Plains Road Halifax 902.407.7000 www.acadianfishandchips.ca

FineLifestyles

HRM

61

Summertime and makin’ Sangria iS eaSy

N

ow that summer is here, one of the most important things on a winemaker’s mind is finding that perfect refreshing beverage for guests during the season. The answer: sangria.

This traditional Spanish drink is very popular throughout Europe and most of the world. You could buy a sangria wine kit, or simply follow an easy recipe and make sangria with wine you already have.

Sangria Ingredients 750 ml bottle of dry red wine 1 lemon, sliced in wedges or discs 1 lime, sliced in wedges or discs 1 apple, sliced in wedges or discs 1 orange sliced in wedges or discs 750 ml sparkling water 1/2 cup sugar 1 cup brandy (optional)

Preparation Take the bottle of red wine and pour it into a large pitcher.

62

FineLifestyles

HRM

Add the sliced fruit. The fruits suggested are only that: suggestions. You may add pear, banana, pineapple or whatever tickles your fancy. The longer the wine and fruit mixture steeps, the better it will be.

Put the pitcher in the fridge. Making this preparation in the morning for an afternoon or evening affair is best.

At time of serving, take the pitcher from the fridge. The old Spanish recipe would call for a 750ml bottle of sparkling water and half a cup of sugar. Add both ingredients, stir and serve with ice. Today, many people use a soda like 7Up in lieu of the soda water and sugar combination; either is fine. Make it and enjoy it before the summer disappears.

The second thing on every winemaker’s mind this time of year is holiday preparations. Although they may be months away, now is the time to consider wines for your winter entertaining. As always, Wine Kitz Halifax offers limitedrelease wines that are special blends

L–R Mark Ceccerallo, Barb White, Jo-Anne Rector, and owner Ross Harrington

and that are made to mature quickly for the holiday season. You may make these wines as late as September and still enjoy them in December. Please see our full descriptions of the Coastal Sunset 2013 options. These wines are proprietary to Wine Kitz, and must be ordered

by July 18. Order early to avoid missing out on this exclusive offer.

Zinfandel / Merlot Enjoy a blend combining the full-bodied, robust flavours of Zinfandel with the softer, medium-bodied fruity Merlot. This full-flavoured red is brimming with berry fruits such as blackberry and raspberry, along with plum and subtle pepper notes.

The Merlot softens the natural fruitiness of Zinfandel, providing depth and a good tannic structure. This wine is great with most meat dishes featuring beef, lamb, spare ribs, brisket and venison. It is also a great complement to casual meals such as beef stew, chili and pizza, as well as tomato-based dishes such as lasagna, cannelloni, spaghetti with meat sauce.

Pinot Grigio / Muscat This fresh, off dry white blend displays a pale-straw hue with ripe peach, pear and floral aromatics. Refreshing flavours of tart green apple, lemon zest and wild honey are there to enjoy. The acidity creates a nice structure without overpowering the fruit. It finishes clean with a slight hint of sweetness. Serve it with a simple antipasto platter; a salad of roasted chicken, baby spinach, mango and goat cheese; or an appetizer like fried calamari. It’s also a perfect companion for light seafood such as shrimp and tilapia or pasta dishes, such as mussels with linguine and herbs. FLH

Wine Kitz 287 Lacewood Drive Halifax 902.457.3072 winekitz@eastlink.ca www.winekitzhalifax.ca |

FineLifestyles

HRM

63

Taking Your Dinner ParTY To The nexT LeveL

BY Rebecca SchneideReit PhoTos bRuce JollimoRe

I

f you could have anything you wanted for dinner without lifting a finger, what would you choose? Calamari al salto?

Cordon bleu? Maybe chicken parmesan with tiramisu for dessert? These days, Halifax’s thriving restaurant culture means that you don’t have to travel to Europe to enjoy delicious recreations of continental favourites. Caterer Tracey Cromwell is taking that combination of fine dining and convenience one step

64

FineLifestyles

HRM

further. As Tracey sees it, you don’t have to leave your dining room—or even your chair—to enjoy an unforgettable meal.

“They interviewed several people for the contract, and they ended up picking me,” Tracey recounts.

Tracey is the owner of Edible Morsels catering; he’s also the head chef. He opened the business four years ago when he decided that, after 20 years of cooking in restaurant kitchens, it was time to try something new. At the same time, he learned that the Cole Harbour fire hall was looking for a new caterer.

Now, Edible Morsels regularly caters weddings, dinners and other special events at the fire hall and throughout HRM, delivering both plated dinners (by the head) and trays of hors d’oeuvres (by the dozen). Tracey also continues to work as a chef at Rocco’s Restaurant, as he has for 19 years.

L–R Kelly Cromwell-Borden, Tatia Jones-Cromwell, Tracey Cromwell, Earl Cromwell, Volina Cromwell

Edible Morsels has two goals: exceptional quality and exceptional value. The company’s menu features comfort-food favourites such as roast beef, turkey and lasagna. Several of the meals cost less than $20 per head, including dessert and coffee. Although timing food for large groups can be a delicate business, Tracey is adamant his meals be served directly from oven to table, never sitting under heat lamps or cooling on countertops.

“When I pull it out, it’s steaming hot,” he boasts. “I’d say quality-wise, it’s probably better.” Customers seem to agree. “I never get any negative feedback,” says Tracey. “Every place that I go, they all love the food.”

Edible Morsels also offers a unique specialty service: in-home catering.

Clients can hire Tracey to come to their

home and prepare food for their family or guests.

“I go to their house about an hour before and start prepping,” explains Tracey. He’ll bring along restaurant-sized pans and his own knife roll, but beyond that, he uses the host’s kitchen equipment.

The menu is flexible. “Most of the time, I give the customer the option to do whatever they like, as long as it’s possible in the home.” In-home catering combines the comfort of a home-cooked meal with the convenience of eating out. Frequently, it also provides an unexpected side benefit: entertainment.

“You get to converse with the chef,” Tracey says. “Sometimes the guests would arrive early just to ask questions and see what I was doing.”

Cooking in clients’ homes satisfies the perfectionist in Tracey. “You can do more detail, and I think it’s … a little fresher, too,” he says. After all, from your kitchen counter to your kitchen table is about the shortest difference a meal can travel.

And always, Tracey is careful to note, he “leaves the kitchen exactly as [he] found it.” Translation: impeccable homemade cordon bleu—and no dirty dishes.

With Edible Morsels, you can have your cake and eat it too. FLH Edible Morsels 29 Everette Street Dartmouth 902.222.6085 cromwellte@yahoo.ca www.ediblemorsels.ca

FineLifestyles

HRM

65

HALIFAX

Summer 2013

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

JUNE/JULY

66

FineLifestyles

HRM

June – November The Big Twang Theory Halifax Feast Dinner Theatre

July 5 – July 7 Stan Rogers Folk Festival Canso

June 27 - July 1 Sackville Patriot Days Various locations in Sackville

July 7 Marblehead to Halifax Ocean Race Various ocean locations

June 29 –30 Epic Dartmouth Various locations in Dartmouth

July 6 – August 24 Chester Playhouse Summer Theatre Festival Chester Playhouse

June 29 – July 7 Annapolis Royal Rose Festival Historic Gardens, Annapolis Royal

July 7 – 14 Antigonish Highland Games Various locations in Antigonish

June 30 – July 7 Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Halifax Metro Centre

July 12 – 13 Smokin’ Blues Fest 3 Fox Mountain Camping Park

July 1 Canada Day Celebrations Various locations

July 12 – October 26 Halifax Citadel Ghost Tour Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

July 1 Boardwalk Artists Alderney Landing Cultural Community Centre

July 13 – 14 Treasures of Mahone Bay Festival Mahone Bay

July 5 – 7 Lobster Bash Various locations in Digby

July 5 – 8 Maritime Fiddle Festival Various locations in Dartmouth

July 6 Manulife Dragon Boat Festival Lake Banook

July 20 Kejimkujik Storytelling Festival Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site

July 5 – 13 TD Halifax Jazz Festival Various locations in HRM

July 22 – August 18 Halifax Summer Opera Festival and Workshop Various locations in Halifax

July 11 – 21 Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts Various locations in Peggy’s Cove

July 25 – 28 42nd Annual Nova Scotia Bluegrass & Oldtime Music Festival Exhibition Grounds, Bible Hill

July 12 – 14 RUSH Metro Centre

July 26 – 28 Harmony Bazaar Festival of Women & Song Seacaps Memorial Park, Lockeporte

July 17 – 22 Race the Cape Various ocean locations in Cape Breton

July 26 – 28 Canadian Superbike Championship Round Three Atlantic Motorsport Park, Shubenacadie

July 18 – 21 9th Annual Acoustic Maritime Music Festival Peterson’s Festival Campground, Kempt Shore

July 26 – 28 Africa Festival of Arts and Culture Lower Water Street, Halifax

July 19 – August 23 Fridays nights alFresco filmFesto Halifax Waterfront

July 27 Art Festival Wolfville Various locations in Wolfville

July 19 – July 21 Rollin’ for Colon Yarmouth Lion’s Club

July 27 – 28 Lunenburg Wooden Boat Reunion and Regatta Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, Lunenburg

FineLifestyles

HRM

67

HALIFAX

Summer 2013

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

JULY/AUGUST July 28 Tastes of the Valley Various locations in Wolfville

July 27 – August 15 Festival Acadien de Clare Various locations in Clare

68

FineLifestyles

HRM

August 3 34th Annual Annapolis County Fun Run 752 St. George Street, Annapolis Royal August 4 Feis Nova Scotia 2013 St. Mary’s University and Atlantica Hotel

July 28 Nova Scotia Marathon/Half Marathon & 10K run Barrington Passage

August 4 Ceilidh on the Cove Hubbards

July 30 Tegan and Sarah Halifax Metro Centre

August 4 Nova Scotia Folk Art Festival War Memorial Arena, Lunenburg

July 31 – August 5 Halifax International Busker Festival Halifax Waterfront

August 4 – 10 Nova Scotia Schooner Association’s Annual Race Week West LeHave

August 1 Kiss Halifax Metro Centre

August 7 – 11 Digby Scallop Days Various locations in Digby

August 1 – 5 Natal Day Celebrations Various locations in Halifax and Dartmouth

August 8 – 11 Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival Various locations in Lunenburg

August 2 – 3 Louisbourg Crabfest 2013 Louisbourg Waterfront

August 8 – 17 Chester Art Festival Various locations in Chester

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER August 9 – 11 Dutch Mason Blues Festival Truro Raceway and Exhibition Grounds

August 26 – September 2 Halifax Urban Folk Festival Various locations in Halifax

August 14 – 17 Halifax County Exhibition Middle Musquodoboit Exhibition Grounds

August 28 – September 2 Wharf Rat Rally Digby

August 15 – August 19 Canadian Junior Baseball Championships Various locations in Dartmouth

August 29 – September 8 Atlantic Fringe Festival Various locations in Halifax

August 17 Atlantic Canada Harmonica Festival Memory Lane Heritage Village

September 6 Daniel O’Donnell Halifax Metro Centre

August 17 Weir Rockin Weir Field, Upper Sackville

September 12 – 19 33rd Atlantic Film Festival Various locations in Halifax

August 18 Sand Castle Competition Clam Harbour Beach

September 13 – October 14 Nova Scotia Fall Wine Festival Various locations throughout NS

August 22 Vince Gill Halifax Metro Centre

September 18 John Edward World Trade and Convention Centre

August 23 Freedom of the City of Halifax Parade Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

September 26 Celtic Thunder Halifax Metro Centre

FineLifestyles

HRM

69

TwenTy years of fanTasTic iTalian food

By Trina annand PhoTos Jennifer GallioTT

F

or nearly 15 years, Hannah Gibson has been part of the Rocco’s family, and for the last five years, she has occupied the roles of owner and manager. Making sure that the Dartmouth restaurant stays true to its Southern Italian roots while still changing and becoming more modern has been an exciting challenge for the owner. Now celebrating 20 years of serving fine Italian fare, Rocco’s Ristorante Italiano is every bit as welcoming as when it first

70

FineLifestyles

HRM

opened. With great Italian food focused on fresh, local ingredients and fantastic staff, Rocco’s will be a staple of the community for another 20 years.

As part of Rocco’s anniversary celebration, there will be a gala event held on August 1. The event will be standing-room-only to accommodate as many Rocco’s fans as possible. The star of the gala is the sweepstakes that includes a grand prize 10-day, all

expenses paid trip for two to Italy. The trip will take the winners through Verona and Venice, Tuscany, the Parma region and end in Rome. The excursion is peppered with winery tours, sightseeing and unique accommodations; it is designed to squeeze as much of Italy into 10 days as possible. “The gala will feature many of our suppliers, with lots of libations to sample and amazing food to eat, of course,” remarks Gibson.

Tickets to the event will go on sale in

May, and customers will receive a ballot for the sweepstakes with each entrée ordered in June and July.

featured drinks to be hosted, al fresco.

We’re excited to finally be able to offer a patio again after 10 years,” says Gibson.

A new patio space will grace Rocco’s this summer; it will be complete with a shade area designed with sail shades from Bay Hammocks in Peggy’s Cove. The sails will act as a divider from the bustle of other shops, creating the perfect place for al fresco dining or simply to enjoy some wine and dessert on a warm day. The patio will comfortably seat 36 and will be available for private event bookings, like wedding rehearsal dinners or family brunches. Rocco’s will also use the space to host exclusive events. “We have been working closely with our local breweries and our wine merchants to put together some monthly tastings and

Rocco’s will soon have some company under the roof of their Millstone Square location. Their longtime dessert partners, Frosting, will become a permanent resident of Rocco’s yellow room. “We did not want to lose the excellent relationship we have with Hannah, and everyone at Rocco’s made us think about ways we could grow within Rocco’s,” notes Melinda Lee, co-owner of Frosting. The company has been baking out of Rocco’s kitchen for some time and, when looking for a permanent location, it seemed like the perfect extension of the partnership.

Whether visitors are longtime fans and family or are discovering Rocco’s for

the first time, they know they are part of something special as soon as they enter. With friendly, knowledgeable staff and an inviting environment, Rocco’s is a must-visit restaurant. If your desire is for a quiet meal for two, a family event or to experience the fantastic anniversary gala, Rocco’s is the place to go. Come in, sit down and leave as family. FLH Rocco’s Ristorante Italiano Millstone Square 250 Baker Drive Dartmouth 902.461.0211 www.roccosrestaurant.ca

Above l–r Amy King and Hannah Gibson, owner

FineLifestyles

HRM

71

Errazuriz Family Wine Since 1870 Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 has a bright, ruby red colour and an expressive nose that showcases fresh red fruit, complemented by notes of dried fruit. Velvety on the palate, it is friendly yet firm with fine tannins and dominant fresh red and black fruit accompanied by hazelnuts and sweet spices.

Max ReSeRVa CabeRnet SauVignon 2010 Chile 750ml #1008759 $18.99

VINTAGES, YOURS TO DISCOVER

Cottage CoCktails Whether you are relaxing on your patio with a good book, or have friends and family over for a barbecue, there is nothing better than having close by a refreshing beverage. Try one of these cool beverage recipes as you put up your feet or let the conversation and laughter flow.

Watermelon Breeze IngredIents 3 cups watermelon, cut into cubes 1 cup coconut water squeeze of fresh lime ice sprig of mint

• In a blender, add all ingredients and blend until smooth.

rasPBerry Beer COCKtaiL

IngredIents 3/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries 3 1/2 bottles beer 1 12–ounce container frozen raspberry lemonade concentrate, thawed 1/2 cup vodka lemon and lime slices for garnish ice • Mix the frozen raspberries, beer, lemonade concentrate, and vodka together in a large pitcher.

• Serve over ice and garnish with lemon and lime wedges.

Zesty Orange MOjitO

A

summer must, this refreshing beverage is perfect for those warm evenings on the cottage patio.

IngredIents half an orange, cut into wedges half a lime, cut into wedges 2 tsp sugar 8 leaves fresh mint 2 1/2 ounces white rum crushed ice • In a tall glass, crush together the orange wedges, lime wedges, sugar and mint until juicy.

• Add the rum and some ice, and mix well.

• Strain over ice into a smaller glass.

• Garnish with a mint leaf and an orange slice.

ARtIst spotlIght

David Myles

By Lindsey HunneweLL pHotos courtesy of Hiep Vu, CARAS/ipHoto inC., DeAnne Bell

I

t was New Year’s with the sun setting at the 2011/2012 Woodford Folk Festival in Australia when David Myles resolved to take more risks. If this past year is any indication, it was a resolution that he’s kept.

Whether it’s playing trumpet in front of a packed house at the Rebecca Cohn, or it’s “dabbling in the rap world” with fellow Maritime rapper, Classified, David Myles has definitely found his “inner ninja.”

Myles has taken Canada by storm with his Buddy holly style, smooth vocals and timeless love songs. From cohosting the 25th Anniversary ECMA gala to playing at the Juno awards, this 32-year-old self-proclaimed “nerd” has come into his own. In the past year, the Fredericton-native-turned halifax-homeboy has won ECMAs for songwriter and song of the Year (2012); released a brand new album, In the Nighttime; seen one song — When It Comes My Turn — be nominated as one of CBC’s top 10 East Coast songs of all

time; and seen another song — Inner Ninja (his collaboration with Classified) — become the best-selling rap single in Canadian history.

“It’s been a bit of a dream year as a songwriter, honestly,” says Myles.

Known more for his romantic tunes and roots-inspired style, he’ll be the first to joke that he didn’t expect to win a Juno for Rap Recording of the Year, but he says it’s a joy to see the song explode through the charts.

“I feel the Juno is just more icing on the cake with the incredible experience we’ve had with this song. having the song go to number one on MuchMusic. having it go triple platinum [in Canada]: it’s just been an amazing year. It doesn’t matter how many songs you write … as a song writer, these are the moments that you have to really savour because they don’t come around all that often. so, I think it has been incredible.”

From the time he was young, Myles says he’s “always been really hungry for music.” his love for music started early, growing up in a household with two

78

FineLifestyles

HRM

pianos and with a father who directed the high school musicals in Fredericton, New Brunswick. As the youngest of four brothers who all play instruments, Myles learned a lot from creating music with them. he started playing trumpet in his school band, and then he became interested in roots and jazz through a local group, hot toddy. Despite devouring music, Myles didn’t find his calling as a singer/songwriter until university when he was on exchange, studying in China. “obviously I always loved music and always loved playing my trumpet, but I never really knew how I could make a career of it. then I bought a guitar and started singing and writing songs, and went, ‘oh, this is it!’ I was totally hooked and I knew this was where I was going to fit in, and it was how I was going to make the career I’d dreamed about. And I was right. It is the thing I love most. I love writing songs and seeing them come together, and putting them together and recording them.” the primary force that led him to become a singer/songwriter is that, first and

foremost, he’s a huge music fan. “the reason I write songs is because I like how it allows me to get into different styles of music. I can incorporate what I’m listening to into what I’m writing and whatever is inspiring me.” It’s clear through listening to his different albums (seven albums in total), each one has its own unique flavour. From soul, jazz and roots elements in his early albums, to Brazilian and ’70s African music influences on Into the Sun, the sounds that inspire Myles can be found just about anywhere. his newest album release is no different. Drawing inspiration from legendary soul and R&B performers like sam Cooke, Jackie Wilson and smokey Robinson, In the Nighttime is a two-disc combo that showcases Myles versatility as a singer/songwriter. the first album contains Myles’ trademark love ballads and crooning style. Disc two is an Ep with a contemporary flair and highenergy beats produced in collaboration with hip-hop artist, Classified. From the doo-wop feel of Change My Mind to the vintage rock and roll echoed in How’d I Ever Think I Loved You, both records pay homage to the music from the late 1950s and early 1960s.

“these are both dream records,” says Myles. “I grew up loving jazz and roots music, where you have a bunch of great musicians playing in the same room, and it’s all about playing with one another and that idea of synergy you get. Disc one is a testament to that idea because it was kind of a dream band.” With experienced musicians who have played for Bonnie Rait and k.d. lang, the first disc is the ultimate studio session with a live band.

“And then, disc two is a dream record because it’s so fun, and it gave [Classified and I] the opportunity to do more than one song on an album together,” Myles adds. “he brings an incredible enthusiasm and risk. he listens to music like no other person I know. so for me, that’s what it’s all about. With this collaboration, I feel like I can tap into a different part of my personality, which is a more contemporary or showman style of singing and performing.”

When it comes to writing, Myles says that, for him, it’s important that he follows the muse and doesn’t edit too

much before the song has a chance to blossom. he also adds that it’s a pleasure to see songs like When It Comes My Turn embraced by the community.

“It’s had this incredible power of resonating with people and becoming that kind of campfire song,” he explains. “to have a song that seems to be slipping into a long-term spot in people’s minds on the east coast? that’s my community. those are the people that I want to love that song more than anything. When I get videos of kids singing it or choirs singing it, that’s when you feel like you’ve written a great song because it’s way bigger than you.” the main thing Myles hopes to create is music that engages his audience. “I really want there to be a sense of joy in my music. I want there to be a sense of happiness. that’s my personality and what I bring to it. I want people to feel good and have a sense of hope.” And with a good start to the year, it looks like Myles will continue to take more risks and do just that. Flh

FineLifestyles

HRM

79

S O N U J 013 2

PHOTOS AND INFORMATION COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN ACADEMY OF RECORDING ARTS & SCIENCES (CARAS)/IPHOTO.

And the winners are…

JUNO Fan Choice Award – Justin Bieber Single of the Year – Carly Rae Jepsen, Call Me Maybe Album of the Year – Carly Rae Jepsen, Kiss Group of the Year – Marianas Trench Breakthrough Group of the Year – Monster Truck Songwriter of the Year – Leonard Cohen Adult Alternative Album of the Year – Serena Ryder, Harmony Rap Recording of the Year – Classified, Inner Ninja ft. David Myles Roots & Traditional Album of the Year: Solo – Rose Cousins, We Have Made a Spark Blues Album of the Year – Steve Strongman, A Natural Fact For a complete list of winners visit www.junoawards.ca

80

FineLifestyles

HRM

FIRST ROW L–R Steve Strongman accepting his award at Gala Awards Dinner; Metric. Alternative Album of the Year winner, Red Carpet arrivals; Breakthrough Group of the Year winner, Monster Truck; SECOND ROW L–R JUNO Awards host Michael Bublé; Adult Contemporary Album of the Year winner The Tenors; Anne Murray introduces Hall of Fame inductee k.d. lang; THIRD ROW L–R JUNO Songwriters’ Circle: L-R Tom Cochrane, Crystal Shawanda, Bahamas, Kathleen Edwards, Collin James and Danny Michel; Carly Rae Jepsen performs medley “Call me Maybe/Tonight I’m getting over you”; Rose Cousins performing at the Gala Awards Dinner; The Cornwall Centre comes alive with Fan Fare at the Cornwall Centre; FOURTH ROW L–R Serena Ryder performs at Juno Awards Night; CARAS President Melanie Berry presents JUNO Cup trophy to Mark Napier as Jim Cuddy looks on ; Classified, David Myles, DJ and Hype Man perform

FineLifestyles

HRM

81

Serving Top noTch FiSh and chipS To UnbeaTable cUSTomerS Photos AnfiA Lin

K

en and Mel Francis, owners of Fries & Co. (possibly the oldest fish-and-chip shop in Halifax), wish to say one thing to their customers: thank you. They are delighted with the warm welcome they have received since taking ownership of

82

FineLifestyles

HRM

the restaurant in 2011, and they know that their loyal clientele has played a crucial role in their continuing success.

“We have wonderful customers,” says Mel. “It makes you feel good [when] they make a point of telling you how great the food is.”

Ken and Mel would also like to welcome the many new customers who have passed Fries & Co. on the street, happened upon their website or read about the restaurant right here in Fine Lifestyles and decided to give it a chance.

It’s a special privilege for Ken and Mel whenever a first-time customer turns

Mel and Ken Francis

into a regular guest. Ken and Mel both agree that their clients are the heart and soul of the business.

In a town famous for its first-rate fish and chips, Fries & Co. has earned the neighbourhood stamp of approval, largely thanks to the quality of their fresh, made-to-order menu. Nothing at Fries & Co is pre-cooked. Exclusively local haddock is used in fish and chip orders, fresh clams are brought in every other day, and chips (french fries), onion rings and hamburgers are prepared fresh on-site. That means that, on a standard day, 300 to 400 pounds of potatoes are hand cut, fried until crispy and golden, then served piping hot alongside fish or fresh clams (if you’re a traditionalist), or an egg burger or pineapple cheese burger (if you have more exotic tastes).

Ken and Mel’s recent switch to a lighter, crisper British-style batter has brought on rave reviews from customers. “It comes from the country that invented it,” says Ken. Being English himself, Ken is helping to bring the shop back to its traditional roots. Inspired by the feedback, Ken and Mel now plan to expand their menu further by adding other British favourites.

They soon plan to add English-style meat pies to the menu, as well as a full English breakfast on weekends. Mel helps to maintain Fries & Co.’s traditional touch by preparing fish cakes and chowder from her grandmother’s recipes. “She’d be so proud,” says Mel, adding that it brings an English authenticity to the menu since the recipes were developed by her grandmother when she lived in the UK. Ken and Mel strive to give back to their customers, offering a senior discount

(Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays) and student discount (all week long).

Likewise, they’re constantly working towards turning Fries & Co. into an even more welcoming space. They’ve repainted and brought in new TVs, they offer free Wi-Fi and they take customers’ orders at their tables rather than the counter. The new atmosphere at Fries & Co. encourages customers to linger over their food and conversation—to take their time and enjoy the experience.

But the more things change, the more they stay the same. And after decades in business, Fries and Co. still serves fish and chips that can’t be beat. FLH Fries & Co. 2603 Connolly Street Halifax 902.455.5250 www.friesnco.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

83

How to Start Collecting Art

Ian Muncaster Owner Zwicker’s Gallery 5415 Doyle Street Halifax 902.423.7662 service@zwickersgallery.ca www.zwickersgallery.ca

C

ollecting art is fun. We buy art for a number of reasons, usually to decorate our homes. Increasingly these days, however, people buy art as an investment. The cardinal rule is to always buy something that you like. Even if you are buying a painting as an investment, you should only buy artwork if it pleases you.

If you are not sure what kind of art you like, visit galleries and museums and look at as much art as you can.

In Halifax, there are a number of places where you can see a wide variety of art. There are several good commercial galleries that show fine art in a variety of different styles. There are also

84

FineLifestyles

HRM

Profile Photo by Jennifer Galliott TOP LEFT Inuit Fishing by Dale Ford TOP RIGHT PT Boat by Alex Colville ABOVE The Red Gate by David Blackwood

a number of public galleries, including the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and the various university art galleries. Art books provide background information about the growing art scene in Canada.

Most of these books are well illustrated with colour reproductions. Again, look at as much art as you can, and it won’t be long before you find what you like.

public collections, such as the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, the National Gallery of Canada, the Metropolitan Museum, etc., then you know that a knowledgeable and independent authority has endorsed the artist’s work. The market values of artists whose works are in important collections usually increases.

Regarding art as an investment is much more common these days than it used to be. There are now published indexes, which track art values in the same way as there are indexes which track the stock market.

It might also be useful to ask the following: is the artist represented in established and knowledgeable commercial art galleries? Is the artist’s work trading regularly through the major auction houses and in the secondary market?

How do you tell whether or not an artwork is likely to be a good investment? Seek professional advice.

Ask the art dealers that you visit to give you reasons and support for their recommendations. If the artist whose painting you like is in a number of major

Good art is not necessarily expensive.

Canadian art is still a bargain when compared to American and European art of similar quality. When you visit the local galleries, you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety and quality of art available to you at reasonable prices. FLH

MOOSEHEADS BRING HOME MEMORIAL CUP!

BY ERICA SHELLEY PHOTOS STEVE HISCOCK

LEFT L–R Milos Vranesevic, vice president/business leader merchant & sponsorship marketing MasterCard Worldwide; Trey Lewis; Stefan Fournier; David Branch, CHL President RIGHT Domanique Ducharme, head coach

A

s Trey Lewis emerged from the airplane on Monday, May 28, faithful Mooseheads fans burst into cheers. Lewis shared the team’s victory with the crowd, holding the shining silver trophy above his head and then kissing it. “I don’t think there’s enough words to describe how great it feels,” the Mooseheads captain grins, struggling to articulate how it felt to arrive back in Halifax with the Memorial Cup in his hands. “It’s indescribable!”

Throughout their “dream season,” the Halifax Mooseheads captured the attention of the city with rolling victories and exciting games. For the first time in their 19-year history, the team won the President’s Cup after beating out Baie-Comeau Drakkar. Winning the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League championship sent the team to Saskatoon to play for the Memorial Cup. At the end of the series, the Mooseheads captured the Memorial Cup and earned the title of the best junior team in the Canadian Hockey League.

The Mooseheads were confident going into the final game against the Portland Winterhawks, as they had already beaten Portland in the round robin. The Mooseheads came out strong, taking an early lead. After the first intermission, Halifax was winning but in the second period Portland fought back. With only a minute left, Portland brought the score uncomfortably close.

86

FineLifestyles

HRM

“Yeah, I was nervous,” admits Nathan MacKinnon. “It’s human nature, when the score’s 5-4 with a minute left. It was a really exciting game. We didn’t want to let them back in like that, but it definitely felt good to win. We’re very happy about it.”

draft. Jonathon Drouin, projected third for the NHL draft, earned the Most Valuable Player Award in the CHL. Zachary Fucale, the Mooseheads’ starting goalie, is the highest ranked goalie for this year’s NHL draft, and coach Dominique Ducharme was named the Head Coach of the Year.

“There were intense moments at times, maybe a little closer than we would have liked,” says Stephen MacAulay.

“They played a heck of a game, but we’re just happy that we won.” Mooseheads fans breathed a collective sigh of relief when MacKinnon shot the puck into an empty net, earning his final hat trick of the season. The next day, MacKinnon was still getting used to the team’s new title. “It’s amazing. It hasn’t really sunk in yet, but we’re Memorial Cup champions.

One of the hardest trophies to win, and we’re definitely very fortunate.”

When asked about his personal accomplishments, Drouin modestly focuses on the team’s victory. “I feel great.

It’s a great honour, with a team like this, to win the Memorial Cup. It’s the greatest thing you could ever accomplish. It beats all the individual trophies.” Despite the flurry of speculation about the NHL draft, MacKinnon is taking things one step at a time. “After June 30, then I’ll start thinking about [the draft],” he smiles.

“I’m extremely proud of this team,” says Mooseheads owner, Bobby Smith. “We have built this team up. Cam Russell, the general manager, put the pieces in place.

Dominique Ducharme did an excellent coaching job and all the players were outstanding all year long. I’m beaming with pride, and that’s the only way to describe it.”

The team’s victory was layered with individual achievements. As a result of MacKinnon’s performance in the Memorial Cup tournament, he has been projected the first overall pick in the NHL

As they fought for the Memorial Cup, the team relied on the strong bonds that had developed between the players.

For Stephen MacAulay, whose mother passed away in March, support from his teammates has helped him through a difficult time. Although he had been with the team for only two months at the time of his mother’s passing, MacAulay was surprised at the level of support from his team members and fans.

“I think the reason that there was so much support is that they all live away from home,” explains Marion MacAulay, Stephen’s aunt and godmother. “It hit them all very hard. Most of them don’t see their mom every day. They could

really relate to how devastated he must have been. They really pulled together.”

Being away from home is a challenge that all the young Mooseheads share. “Really, it’s the billets that help the players a lot.

The billets are all great,” says Craig and Penny Lewis, family members of Trey Lewis. “Trey had excellent billets, he was very happy.”

Mooseheads forward Dominic Beauchemin’s billets gave him added motivation to fight for the Memorial Cup. Pete and Rosemary Taylor, who call themselves Beauchemin’s “Nova Scotian parents,” had a deal with him if the team won. “We have two large 11-month-old puppies,” Pete explained. “Dominic made a deal with Rosemary. If he won the Cup, she would have to eat one of their dog treats!”

While the Mooseheads battled for the Memorial Cup in Saskatoon, fans in Halifax gathered to watch the game in homes, pubs and even braved the weather to watch in Parade Square.

“They’re tremendous,” Smith says of the fans gathered at the airport. “They’ve been with us all along. The players could feel it in Saskatoon. They’re a big part of the success of the Halifax Mooseheads.”

For some fans, the Memorial Cup comes after many years of cheering for the team.

“I’ve been waiting for this for 19 years,” says Leah Solomon, as she stood patiently in the rain to greet the returning team. As an interpreter for the Mooseheads and fiercely loyal fan, Solomon proudly wears the jersey the team gave her several years ago, reading “Hockey Mom” across the back. “Over 19 years I’ve only missed six games,” Solomon explains. Watching the final game from Parade Square, she was confident in the team. “I knew our guys would come back, I knew our guys wouldn’t let go. It was too important to them.”

While the Mooseheads have secured the loyalty of longstanding fans, they have also won many new fans. “I got caught

up in the excitement,” says Kathleen Attwood, a Dalhousie student and a resident of Halifax for only three years.

While Attwood was thrilled to watch the Mooseheads win the Memorial Cup, her favourite moment of the season was when the team took the President’s Cup before a home crowd. “The Mooseheads represent the city,” Attwood explains.

For many students over the past year, cheering on the Mooseheads became a thrilling way to identify with Halifax.

Old and new fans alike can relate to Marion MacAulay’s feelings as she watched the final game: “When it was over, I felt a little bit disappointed. I was very excited that they had won, but I felt sad that it was over last night. Very bittersweet.” After being caught up in Moose mania, proud Haligonians can’t help but feel a faint sense of loss that the season is over. But victory is sweet, and this one will be celebrated for a long time to come. FLH

FineLifestyles

HRM

87

PLAN A

STAYCATION: W

Enjoy the Gems of the Maritimes

BY TRINA ANNAND

hen planning a vacation, people envision sun, sand, vast natural beauty, bustling nightlife and cultural experiences.

Whether vacationers are looking for family fun, a romantic getaway or an adventurous excursion, they are all available right in our backyard. The choice to vacation in the Maritime provinces provides travellers everything they want without the wear and tear of air travel, along with the ability to support the local economy.

Nova Scotia Nova Scotia

Be it a day trip or a several week adventure, Nova Scotia (NS) has something for everyone. This year marks the 300th anniversary of the founding of Louisbourg. During the summer, Fortress Louisbourg will be buzzing with events every day. Visitors to the fort can submerge themselves in the historic culture of the fortress through period education and food, but also experience various concerts, a learn-to-camp program and Forge300, an international blacksmithing gathering. While in Cape Breton, why not experience the highly acclaimed golf courses and National Geographic highlighted scenery?

As well, aspiring artists can book a day-long guided songwriting and

88

FineLifestyles

HRM

kayak tour with professional singer and songwriter Angelo Spinazzola in beautiful St. Ann’s Bay. If a shorter trip is planned, history buffs need look no further than the Halifax Citadel. Visitors can truly immerse themselves in the history of Halifax through the soldier for the day program.

Experience the firing of the noon gun in a whole new way. Visitors and residents alike can also take advantage of the many boat tours available on the city’s waterfront. “I think people forget how beautiful Nova Scotia is. Too often we take the activities and experiences the province provides for granted,” remarks Pat Sullivan, CEO of NS Tourism.

Those looking for outdoor adventure should visit Kejimukjik National Park, which will be celebrating its 44th birthday on August 3rd. As a dark sky preserve that remains free of artificial lighting, Keji is featuring a dark sky weekend in August. As well, visitors can rent a canoe or kayak and experience the lakes and waterways of the area, taking portage and walking trails through the expansive park. Guests to Keji can also stay the night in one of the park’s many yurts, which are even open for winter camping excursions.

“The great thing about Nova Scotia is that we don’t need big events. We have things that happen every weekend.

Photo Trina Annand

We’ve even created an app to tell people what is happening in their area on their smart phones,” notes Sullivan.

If a culinary experience is more your style, NS has a wide variety of restaurants and excursions to whet your appetite. If something more than a visit to the farmer’s market is what visitors would like, there are a large number of farmers that offer the option to explore and pick your own fruit and vegetables, or see how cheese is made. Visitors to the shores can take advantage of wharfs where they can catch a boat, chat with local fishermen and buy their product fresh off the boat to enjoy at the table or even a beach bonfire under the stars. Epicureans can hop on a bus in Halifax and travel to wine country

in the valley, exploring the numerous vineyards, distilleries, breweries and fine restaurants; after all, NS has been growing grapes for wine since the 1600s, and it was possibly the first place in North America to do so.

“Nova Scotia is the only place in Canada that has five UNESCO designated locations. The beauty and importance of the province has been formally recognized by the world,” remarks Sullivan. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), singles out specific sites to protect and highlight that are of ecological, historical, educational or cultural significance to the world. NS has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Landscape of Grand Pre, Joggins Fossil

Cliffs and Old Town Lunenberg. The province is also home to two UNESCO Biosphere Preserves, Southwest Nova and Bras d’Or Lake. All of these locations possess a wide variety of attractions to visitors, including vast beauty, local culture and historic significance.

A visit to Joggins will reveal gems washed by the rushing tides of the Bay of Fundy, fossils with as many as 300 million years of history attached to them.

With the highest tides in the world, the Bay of Fundy has over 100 billion tonnes of sea water flowing through it daily.

Adventure seekers can take a ride on the tidal bore down the Shubenacadie River in a zodiac, taking in the beautiful scenery and braving the monster waves along the way to the bay.

Photos Tourism Nova Scotia FineLifestyles

HRM

89

New Brunswick New Brunswick

Sharing the Bay of Fundy with Nova Scotia, New Brunswick (NB) has a culture and experiences all of its own as the only officially bilingual province.

With many natural splendors, visitors on the west side of the Bay of Fundy can explore the Hopewell Rocks by kayak and later on foot when the tide goes out. A visit on foot at low tide is also possible to Minister’s Island, the former summer home of Sir William Van Horne, capitalist and railway builder. “I would definitely go to the Bay of Fundy during my first visit to New Brunswick.

It is so interesting how the tides impact the lives of everyone along the bay,” remarks Alison Aiton of Tourism NB. This year, the city of Miramichi is playing host to the Festival of the Tall Ships for

the first time, from May 31 to June 2.

Visitors can experience eight tall ships on foot, by water or air with helicopter rides available. Along with famous hiking and biking trails, Miramichi also boasts world-class salmon fishing along the river. Visitors looking for unique NB experiences can also go further west to Mount Carleton Provincial Park; the dark sky preserve is home to the highest point in the Maritimes. Explorers of the park can stay in some of the refurbished hunting cabins on the mountain. With 42,000 acres of land and lakes, the park provides an expansive opportunity for exploration.

Explorers looking for an educational experience need look no further than the University of New Brunswick and

their extended education programs like Adventures. The program creates a series of travel workshops where visitors learn in a unique environment provided by the great outdoors. One signature workshop this summer is a photography experience where participants learn the art from renowned photographer Freeman Patterson. Imagine learning to see the world through Patterson’s eyes.

“Visitors are looking to really connect on their trips, they want authentic experiences. They want to meet the chef who cooked their meal, want to feel like a local and see what we do.

What makes the Maritimes unique is how friendly the people are,” remarks Ation.

Photos Tourism New Brunswick

90

FineLifestyles

HRM

Prine Edward Island Prince Edward Island

Nestled in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Prince Edward Island (PEI) boasts the warmest ocean waters north of the Carolinas and abounds with authentic experiences unique to the province.

Culinary enthusiasts can pick from a number of adventures, including lobster and deep sea fishing, as well as digging clams from the province’s red sandbars.

PEI is the home to the Fall Flavours Festival from September 6 to 29, as well as celebrity chef and host Michael Smith. For the truly dedicated home chefs, PEI offers culinary boot camps at the Culinary Institute of Canada.

The province was recently voted a top culinary destination by the Zagat Guide.

“What is great about PEI is the accessibility and ease of travel; you can set up a base in one place and see the

whole island from there. You can come here and relax, enjoying a slower pace of life,” remarks Isabel MacDougall with PEI Tourism. Visitors can relax on a quiet bike ride over Confederation Trail, a 300 kilometer trail that stretches the entire length of the province. Travellers and also enjoy the white sands and red cliffs of the coast or play a round of golf on one of the province’s 33 courses. PEI provides visitors with all the relaxation they could need with 1,600 kilometers of coastline.

If adventure is more your style, PEI offers a wide variety of water sports from paddle boarding to kite boarding and parasailing.

Visitors can actually feed giant Bluefin tuna by hand on one of the island’s adventure tours. “PEI’s western region has magnificent views, and great activities like harvesting Irish moss, feeding giant tuna or the Wind Energy Interpretive Centre.

In my opinion, you can’t leave PEI until you have tried one of our world famous oysters,” notes MacDougall.

As the birthplace of Confederation, PEI is steeped in history and culture. Visit Province House and Founder’s Hall to experience days gone by. Enjoy a simpler time with a visit to Avonlea, the fabled home of Anne of Green Gables and enjoy a kitchen party.

If your vacation is a quest for sand and sun or culture and adventure, the choice is clear: a vacation in the Maritimes can provide all that and more. All of the Maritime provinces have theme parks, world class golfing and fantastic experiences. When your backyard is this extraordinary, why not stay home? FLH

Photos Tourism Prince Edward Island FineLifestyles

HRM

91

Great GolfinG and Beautiful Views

BY Trina annand

O

akfield Golf and Country Club is the perfect destination for golfers looking for a rural escape close to the city. Over the last 50 years, Oakfield has established itself as a premier golfing destination for golfers of all ages and skill levels.

The club prides itself on a first-class, quality service, with a membersfirst approach. The course excels at providing a championship golfing experience to all its visitors.

92

FineLifestyles

HRM

“Oakfield is one of those courses that you see something different every time you play. The vista and scenery are magnificent, and the wind changes here because of the lakes, so the playability of the course changes, offering a perfect blend of challenge and enjoyment,” remarks David Blott, Oakfield’s general manager.

Nestled in the heart of the province, Oakfield is bordered by two lakes, providing spectacular sweeping views.

The club was re-designed by legendary course architect, Graham Cooke, who

created a harmony of beauty, challenge and playability. “Our course is maintained to the highest standards. Once you have played a round of golf at Oakfield you always want to play it again,” remarks Blott. The club is so committed to the quality of the course that they even have a blog about the course maintenance to keep golfers in the know about general maintenance and course improvements.

Every member and visitor to Oakfield receives the same warm welcome and excellent service. From the Pro Shop

to the locker rooms and the restaurant to the lounge, the staff is dedicated to providing the best possible service.

Oakfield’s entire staff prides themselves on making each visitor feel like they are their top priority. “When you visit Oakfield you go away a happy golfer. We can’t guarantee you shoot a good score, but we can guarantee a first-class golfing experience,” notes Blott.

The golf club was founded on the principles of being prejudice-free, creating a welcoming place for camaraderie between golfers of all ages, gender and skill levels. As a result of those principles, the club has very active ladies, junior and family-based memberships. Oakfield has one of the most open junior access policies in the province, and for the past three years they have hosted the Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA) National championships for the Atlantic region.

The minimum age for a junior member is eight, but children as young as five or six years can join the Oakfield Acorns and learn the mechanics of the game with fun summer clinics and professional training. Members can finish the perfect family day at Oakfield by visiting the club’s private beach on Grand Lake.

Those wanting a first-class golfing experience can play the course as a visitor, and the facilities can also be booked to host corporate or minitournaments. To experience the course through the eyes of a member, Oakfield also offers a limited number of trial memberships every season. The trial membership grants 15 rounds of golf with full membership privileges, thereby allowing prospective new members an opportunity to experience all that Oakfield has to offer. Those looking for the thrill of a challenge, some family fun or the experience to build a love of golf should look no further than Oakfield Golf and Country Club. FLH Oakfield Golf and Country Club 6055 Highway #2, Enfield 902.861.2777 swhiting@oakfield.ca www.oakfield.ca L–R Nancy Locke, John Mettam, Ashton Casey, Annamarie Rockwell, Darrell Cooling, Racheal Weagle, Hugh Yorke, David Blott, Jessica MacNutt, Sheila Whiting, Adam Fletcher, Deb Ferguson, Bruce Romkey

Love CzeCh RepubliC

HOW TO THe

by Rebecca SchneideReit

I

n a place where the “New Town” was founded in 1348, visitors have a lot of ground to cover. Thankfully, much of Prague can be conquered on foot. “You will thank your lucky stars if you invest in a really good pair of walking shoes,” says Rebecca Funk, manager of Thomas Cook Travel. “Prague is a great city for strolling.”

Your first stroll should be over the Charles Bridge, where silent religious statues compete with day vendors for your attention, and up the hill to Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral. Once you’ve basked in their old-world splendour, trek back down to Wenceslas Square: historically, this was a site of political import, but these days it’s largely devoted to shopping and nightlife.

A short walk from there is the Old Town Square, where the Orloj (astronomical clock) ticks away the minutes, as it has for over

94

FineLifestyles

HRM

five centuries. (Hang onto your wallet. The Old Town Square is a tourist hotspot, so it’s also a haven for pickpockets.)

If you’re the museum type, Prague’s offerings include the Mucha Museum, the Franz Kafka Museum, the KGB Museum, and the Museum of Communism (where there’s something a little ironic about the extensive gift shop). If you’re a theatregoer, check out the National Marionette Theatre, which features puppet versions of Mozart’s Magic Flute and Don Giovanni, and the Prague State Opera, where the repertoire currently includes Carmen, La Traviata and Madama Butterfly. A host of other destinations— from the solemn Old Jewish Cemetery to the five-storey Karlovy Lázně nightclub to the charming Prague Zoo—make it certain you’ll run out of time before you’ve seen all Prague has to offer.

A UNeSCO World Heritage site nestled on the banks of the Vltava River, Český Krumlov is the perfect followup to Prague. “It’s been discovered, but it’s not overrun by tourists yet,” explains Rebecca, who calls the town an “unspoiled medieval wonder.” Since you’re in on the secret, be a polite tourist, and don’t nickname it “Český”— that’s like visiting Halifax and telling the locals you love “Nova.” It’s best to travel between Prague and Český Krumlov by bus or train. The former may be slightly quicker, but neither is likely to take more than five hours at most. Český Krumlov is another walking city; at the cobbled heart of the town, there’s really no other way to get around.

Fashionable readers—leave your heels at home. Cobblestones and stilettos don’t mix. Head up the hill to the castle, where you can tour the interior, drink in the gardens, watch the live bears in the (dry) moat, or climb the tower to see the city from a royal’s perspective.

And try to visit the castle’s theatre, a perfectly maintained baroque treasure.

The theatre’s fragile beauty means it can host only a handful of performances yearly, but that’s all right—the decor is the real star. If you can, schedule your visit to Český Krumlov to coincide with the Five-Petalled Rose Festival in June: its theatricals, pyrotechnics, and costumed revellers redefine the “renaissance fair.”

Rebecca has a couple pointers for hassle-free Czech travel. First off, plan for potential rain on your parade. “Always have an umbrella. Always. I think that’s a good rule of thumb for being in europe, period,” she says, adding, “Bring as many toiletries as you can from home.” After all, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to find your favourite shampoo in the Czech Republic: even if you do, it’ll be imported and priced accordingly.

With a little bit of forethought, though, the Czech Republic is yours for the taking —and Prague and Český Krumlov provide the perfect combination of metropolitan glamour and intimate charm. Don’t forget your walking shoes. FLH

FineLifestyles

HRM

95

Mark de Jonge:

Paddling to Olympic Bronze

By Lindsey HunneweLL Photos GreG redman, Jon CLarke, Bernard irvin, maskwa aquatiC CLuB and Canoekayak Canada

I

t’s been almost a year since Maskwa Aquatic Club was crammed full with hundreds of excited members at 4 a.m. local time to cheer on their club mate in the London 2012 Olympic Games. Four time-zones away, Mark de Jonge was poised at the starting line, preparing for the race of his career. “Everything is sort of muted because you’re ignoring all that’s around you, and you’re just focused on what is ahead of you,” says the 29-year-old paddler about his experience as a kayaker in the Men’s K1-200m event.

“After 15 years, it all came down to 36 seconds, and I think that 36 seconds worked out pretty great,” de Jonge says with a chuckle about claiming the bronze medal in his event.

Growing up in Calgary, de Jonge left Alberta and came to Nova Scotia with his family when he was 13 years old. “We had just moved and my parents wanted me to meet some friends in the neighbourhood, so they signed me up for the Maskwa summer programme and I really enjoyed it.” He enjoyed it so much, in fact, that he decided to stay on with the club in the fall. The naturally competitive teen immediately excelled at the sport. In 1999, only two years after beginning paddling, de Jonge captured his first national titles at his very first National Championship. Since then, he’s gone on to compete globally in events like the Pan American Games (2007), the World Cup (2011), and World Championships (2009 and 2011). He has brought home a number of titles including 28 national gold medals, a bronze from Worlds for K-1 200m and a gold in the 2012 Nelo Winter Challenge in K-1 200m in Portugal. However, an Olympic medal was always his goal.

He tried for the 2004 and 2008 Olympics in the 1000m races, but didn’t qualify. “It’s made for a different type of athlete, and I felt I was trying to do something that I wasn’t really made for.” After missing out on the 2008 Olympics, de Jonge then decided to take time away from his sport and focus on his education. In 2009, he completed his engineering degree in civil engineering from Dalhousie University, and then he started working in his field.

But, there was something that continued to draw him back to the water. As he says on his blog, there was a “certain spark that made all of the pain, fatigue and hardships worth it.” That feeling of the “perfect race” continued to nag at him.

When they added the K-1 200m event to the Olympics, de Jonge knew that this was the time to come back to competitive paddling. “With the introduction of the 200m sprint in the Olympics, I could take the sprinting a bit more seriously, and I came back knowing that I could do really well as a sprinter.” He did come back, and after almost missing out on his opportunity for Olympic trials because of a broken finger, he competed and paddled the fastest race in history to win his spot on the Olympic team for London 2012.

In August, while de Jonge was competing for his country, back home, the club was behind him every step of the way. “I knew I was going to get quite a bit [of support], … but it was really something else to experience that. The kids rallied around me at the club and they gave me a signed flag and everything before I left. It’s a very unforgettable memory, especially coming back and having everyone crowd around me at the airport; it was very exciting,“ he says.

“It was one of the most tremendous weekends in my memory,” says Maskwa club commodore, Ian Scott. “It was magic to see a guy that you’ve known for a number of years really set out with a goal in mind, to achieve it.” For two solid days, they had hundreds of people camped out at the club taking part in activities, enjoying fireworks, and waking up early to watch de Jonge’s race. “We were all there for four o’clock to watch him win a medal at the Olympics, and it was magic,” remembers Scott.

The win was even sweeter for Maskwa because de Jonge has worked hard to build up the club and give back to the paddling community. He has been on the board of directors for two-and-a-half years, and he’s been instrumental in working to improve the trails behind Maskwa for cross country skiing and helping improve paddling at the club.

The modest Olympian attributes much of his success to a rigorous training schedule along with the strong paddling culture and support he’s found in Nova Scotia. “I don’t know if many people know this, but Nova Scotia is basically a center of excellence for kayaking. You don’t get the concentration of lakes and clubs and athletes that you do in Nova Scotia in any other part of the world. For me it’s really good to have the sports centre here and to have so much support.” Ian

FineLifestyles

HRM

97

Scott agrees. “It’s interesting to note that half of Canada’s medals at this past Olympics came from paddling, and half of Canada’s Olympic team for paddling came from Nova Scotia. So, Nova Scotia is really a powerhouse for paddling.”

With seven paddling clubs in the Halifax area alone, Scott says that this province has truly built a strong club system and division here in Nova Scotia. “As a result of having all those clubs and all those kids competing, you have a lot of opportunity here for kids to hone their skills and get better. Nowhere else can compare to that,” says Scott.

With de Jonge’s win at London, Scott says that it has really helped increase the profile of the sport here in the Halifax area. Typically, their club would have between 200 and 300 kids participating in the summer program, but once school starts, they lose most of them to things like hockey or basketball. “At the end of the season, we would normally be down to a dozen or 15 who are here for full-year training. This year it was above 30, so we doubled our numbers.”

Although it’s been an exciting year competitively for Nova Scotia, Scott is quick to point out that paddling isn’t solely for the highly competitive athletes like de Jonge. Maskwa has paddlers from age five to over 75 who participate in a wide variety of levels, from recreational athletes to those like de Jonge who aim for the Olympics.

“Maskwa won the healthy kids challenge this year. The key word is a healthy lifestyle. We want to get people out and enjoying themselves … it’s great fun and it’s a great activity.” This is something de Jonge feels strongly about as well: “They’re going to have a great time doing it. Not only by being able to kayak and enjoy nature and being outdoors, but … you get the chance to do a whole bunch of different sports for cross training. We run, we swim, we do cross country skiing and we lift weights. I think it’s really good to have that opportunity and it’s a good way to stay active.”

Over the past year, the paddler has been getting adjusted to all the changes that come with being an Olympic medalist.

TOP–BOTTOM Maskwa aquatic club boathouse, Liam Demster and Matthew Pace, Mark de Jonge

TOP–BOTTOM L–R Laurence Vincent-Lapointe; Maskwa high performance team at Maskwa docks fROnT–Back Alex Scott, David Webster, Matthew Coutts, Ben Kendall; Jillian Steele, Natalie Miller, Ciara Jerrett, Alexa Irvin; Brian Dugie and Jesse Scott; Mark de Jonge

One of those changes is being a role model for the younger generation.

People like Steve Giles and competitive judo athletes who he grew up watching at his club when he was involved in the sport inspired him to want to be an Olympian, and now younger athletes will be looking up to de Jonge. His advice for them is to keep their goals in mind. “The key is to not just go through the motions, but to truly work for the things that you want. If you’re going to high school or university, there are a lot of different pressures on you. When you do struggle to get yourself out of bed in the morning to go to practice, it’s really important to remember why you want to do it every day.” For de Jonge, he’s following the same advice and setting small goals for himself in order to reach the 2016 Olympics and hopefully upgrade his medal from bronze to gold. FLH

The BesT for Your Bff

By Tobie HainsTock Photos naTasHa Poirier

H

e doesn’t care how much money you make, what kind of car you drive or what you do for a living.

He’s always thrilled to spend time with you and is completely loyal. He’s your confidant, best friend and constant companion. He’s a contributing member of your family. He’s your pet and he deserves the best.

As with any loved one, you want to ensure that your pet companion is healthy and happy. It is important that he receives the best nutrition available. At Jollytails, their

100

FineLifestyles

HRM

love for dogs is so top of mind that they carefully research and test every product they sell. That’s why they only sell top quality dog food. You won’t find high grain content foods on these shelves.

According to Tristan Flynn, certified dog trainer and co-owner of Jollytails, dog foods with high levels of grains, such as wheat and corn, can be difficult for your dog to digest. This can have detrimental effects on your dog’s health and behaviour. Flynn warns that, because there is little government regulation

when it comes to pet food, it really is a case of “buyer beware.”

“That’s why we research the products we bring in; we want to know the ingredients and where they are coming from.” Flynn advises that food with high meat content are best for the carnivore diet that dogs’ and cats’ bodies are designed to consume.

Because Flynn is a student of animal behaviour, you will find that the toys and training aids available at Jollytails focus

L–R Pamela Smith holding dog Cashew, below her dog George, Tristan Flynn with dog Freyja, Lynsay Walker with dog Maverick, Candice Scott with dog Capone

predominantly on stimulating their natural instincts in a positive manner. “The toys we stock are designed to engage your pet’s mind,” says Flynn, who adds that boredom is also a cause for pet misbehaviour.

Engaging your pet in fun and challenging activities such as games and puzzles will keep them occupied and leave them feeling loved and content. The same holds true for cats, and Jollytails has a wide selection of products for your furry feline friends as well.

Feeling great also comes from looking great, and your pet is no exception. Jolly tails provides full grooming services to keep your pal looking sharp. Co-owner Pamela Smith explains that it’s important to them that the dogs have a positive and comfortable experience; therefore, their grooming process is never hurried.

“Our groomer is very gentle and takes her time to make sure that each dog has a good experience,” she comments.

Only high quality organic shampoos and conditioners are used to protect the dogs’ hair and skin. The electric-rise grooming table provides safe transport for your pet on and off the table, “This ensures that no dogs get hurt jumping up and down,” adds Flynn. For the safety of your pet, there are no cage dryers on the premises. All dogs are blow dried by hand to avoid burns and other injuries.

As well as a doggy day care with 8,000 square feet of indoor and turf-covered outdoor space, Jollytails also offers professional dog training services. As a certified dog trainer, Flynn highly recommends enrolling your pooch in classes as a puppy. “It’s the most

important thing you can do for your dog,” he says.

Teaching social skills early will mean your dog is friendlier and better adjusted.

“Most dogs that end up in shelters are dogs that are hard to handle because they didn’t attend classes or get training,” Flynn explains.

Jollytails is locally owned and conveniently located in Halifax at 3484 Intercolonial Street, off of Kempt Road. For more information about products, services or doggy training, call 902.469.4738. FLH Jollytails 3484 Intercolonial Street Halifax 902.469.4738 www.jollytails.ca |

FineLifestyles

HRM

101

Five Ws

The

Hiring an Interior Designer of

By Fran Underwood

P

eople renovate or build a home only once or twice in a lifetime; so, it’s not surprising if they are unfamiliar with the process of hiring help. Asking the following five Ws— the what, who, where, when and why— of hiring design professionals can help keep you on the right track.

1. What needs to be done?

It’s difficult, if not impossible, to estimate the cost of an idea. It’s harder still to get permits without documentation. Before your call a buddy to move a wall in your house, hone your ideas into a plan.

Make sure you list requirements, such as:

your

project

• Creating additional space • Changing the use of space (e.g., basement storage changing to family space) • Altering the access or privacy of a room or floor • Remodelling the bathroom or kitchen • Selecting colours, trims and other finishes • Choosing someone to manage the project with your best interests in mind Consider hiring a professional interior designer to help you with any of these processes. They can figure out the best use of space for you, as well as draw up floor plans, elevations and details that you can understand and a contractor can use for estimates.

2. Who’s out there?

A professional interior designer is trained in effective space planning in terms of use and function within the space. Accessibility, materials, code compliance and drafting for construction are all part of the designers’ expertise. As of 2012, interior designers are in the NS building code as having authority to stamp drawings for interior renovations. In Nova Scotia, the legal title “interior designer” can only be used by professionals with seven years’ education and experience, along with successful completion of the qualifying exam.

You will need to consult an engineer for site and access, structure, drainage and

comfort systems. Professional interior designers have established working relationships with architects and engineers they can call to collaborate with on your work.

In Nova Scotia, residential planning and renovation services are available from members of: • Interior Designers of Nova Scotia www.idns.ca • Nova Scotia Association of Architects www.nsaa.ca • Association of Professional Engineers of NS www.apens.ns.ca • NS Home and Building Designers www.nshomedesigners.com • Nova Scotia Home Builders Association nshomebuilders.ca • Interior Decorators www.nsida.ca • Kitchen and bath companies www.nkba.org • CAD technician /draftsperson With so many listings available, diligent research is advised.

1. Visit the web-site of the professional association for the work you require.

Membership lists are usually posted, or you can contact the association.

2. Follow referrals from friends and always check references. Listen closely to both the positive and negative points.

3. Read testimonials; ask specific questions where information is either vague or overly glowing.

4. Phone possible contenders (minimum of two) for an appointment to meet and discuss your job. Ask about experience on similar projects.

5. Ask about professional liability insurance.

6. Is there a good personality fit? If something doesn’t seem quite right, address it. Work through it and be sure you are satisfied with the answer, or stop and find another person.

When you’ve found the fit, be sure to agree upon it in writing. Ask for a simple letter of intent outlining the scope of work, timing and fees for services. Be sure HST and expenses are mentioned. Once you’ve signed on, be sure to continue the communication and ask questions.

FineLifestyles

HRM

103

3. Where?

Where is the project and who works in that region? Who is registered and licensed to work in your area? Can you hire locally? Building design is taught and practiced as a discipline of urban culture; so, finding a designer outside of a major centre may require some research.

4. When?

The interior designer you hire will help you refine the overall schedule. Your understanding of all aspects of the job will help you find the person whose schedule fits yours.

To schedule your project, establish an end date and work back to the start date. Allow time to pack and move out at the beginning, as well as time to settle back in at the end. Construction time is usually the longest, but also allow time for design, estimating, shopping and shipping, as well as seasons and weather. Know how your life will be affected and do not plan to stay in your house during major renovations; it only slows the project down. Projects are most successful when sufficient time has been allowed in the planning stage.

5. Why go to all this trouble?

• You will know what you’re getting within your budget before the work starts.

• You get the best job done by using talents and expertise of qualified and experienced people.

• You will save your time and money in the long run.

• It’s the best route to minimize frustration and anxiety. You can keep on with your life, doing what you do best, while the qualified people deal with your renovation. FLH Fran Underwood BID, IDC, IDNS and Kelly Moore, IDNS, LEED AP ID+C are the design team “Underwood & Moore Interior Designers” in Chester, NS. Fran is the 2013 president of the Interior Designers of Nova Scotia (www.idns.ca) of which she has been a member since its inception. She is also a past president of IDC (Interior Designers of Canada.) Her mandate as IDNS President is to inform the public about what interior design is and what interior designers do.

HRM’S INSPIRING FURNITURE, LIGHTING, ACCESSORIES AND FLOOR STORE An Exceptional Experience PHOTOS KELLY NEIL

T

he Bayers Lake location of Floors Plus and their new furniture and lighting addition, Style 52, offers a unique retail showroom to explore.

Enter either storefront, and you will discover the blending of two stores offering the best of both worlds.

The immediate impression is sophisticated, urban, with a touch of elegance. Crystal ceiling chandeliers gleam softly throughout the furniture showroom. Vast, high ceilings open themselves to large displays of natural stone and an array of fine floorings.

Your imagination will take you away as you are exposed to originally-designed products and artistic pieces throughout.

The combination of flooring products, furniture, lighting, accessories, custom window treatments and draperies, and even a selection of bathroom vanities is

worth the visit. Endless possibilities to furnish and finish your home, office or larger corporate space are located in this wonderful blended showroom.

The history of Floors Plus will be familiar to anyone who keeps tabs on local business successes. The company is now in its 25th year: founders and coowners Larry and Patricia (Pat) Gibson went into business in 1988 as Install-AFlor Ltd., building the brand now known as Floors Plus on quality products and customer service. Francis Chisholm, now a partner, joined the Gibsons in 1992.

From their first retail location in Burnside, Floors Plus quickly grew into a multi-store operation spanning the Maritimes. Now, after two-and-a-half decades of growth, the commercial team has successfully completed Canadian and international projects including hotel chains, banks and educational institutions, hospitals,

oil rigs, airplanes, naval vessels and more.

In addition to the success Floors Plus has achieved within the commercial sector, residential clients seeking flooring and décor for private homes still make up a large portion of their day-to-day business.

Floors Plus What’s under your feet right now? Is it warm or cool? Soft or hard? Bright and cheerful, or neutral and soothing?

A floor’s look and feel impacts the entire room and the people within it, so Floors Plus carries flooring for every customer and environment. “We stock a range of materials, including carpet, laminate, vinyl, hardwood, cork, natural stones, tile and luxury vinyl tiles,” states Francis. Floors Plus also carries an assortment of area rugs, including indoor and outdoor choices.

FineLifestyles

HRM

107

Clients purchasing a new floor should consider both appearance and performance as they begin their planning.

“We encourage our clients to bring in items to assist with their selection, such as magazines, photos, paint chips, floor plans, or even a sofa cushion.” The experienced staff at Floors Plus stores work closely with their clients to achieve the ultimate combination of products for their project.

mainstream and glamorous choices. In addition, well-recognized names such as Armstrong, Congoleum, Mannington and more are offered in all locations. As part of their commitment to excellent service for their clients, Floors Plus Flooring Specialists will coordinate your installation with one of their trained installation teams. Attention to detail is essential in completing your project to the best of your satisfaction.

Floor samples range in size to allow for variations in the patterns, and an innovative “lighting booth” allows the customer to view how lighting can affect colour in their own home. Depending on the clients’ needs, the Flooring Specialists may make a “house call” to help with the selection and evaluation of a product.

If you are shopping for the latest trends in porcelain and ceramic tiles, IBERO, which is imported from Spain, offers both

The “Plus” side of Floors Plus offers a wide range of tiles made from glass and natural stone such as granite, marble and quartz, as well as metals such as copper, stainless steel and brushed chrome. These tiles can be used to create decorative wall patterns, stylish “impact walls,” countertops and custom showers. To add further value for customers, the Bayers Lake store also houses an exclusive Hunter Douglas

108

FineLifestyles

HRM

Master Gallery featuring motorized and remote-controlled window blinds, and showcasing various Hunter Douglas window coverings with specialty fabrics and features. Other Floors Plus locations offer similar window covering displays.

Selection Centre “Some of our clients require their product right away,” says Larry. Thanks to the growing popular interest in “do-ityourself” projects, Floors Plus has opened a Selection Centre in Burnside, just around the corner from their Burnside showroom, as well as one in Bridgewater.

If you need something fast, Floors Plus’ “Smart Stock” program guarantees that certain popular flooring options will be on hand. There are hundreds of thousands of square feet of flooring ready to go, and the helpful staff will coach you through the selection process.

will bring a higher level of comfort to your home theatre experience. “You have to see them to believe them,” notes Larry.

Style 52 boasts an incredible array of lighting options by various designers. Besa hand-blown glass fixtures are a standout, as are Currey & Company’s cast iron designs.

Phillips’ LED lighting selection offers more modern, attractive LED options than in the past, including a whimsical children’s line. Perhaps the most immediate eyecatching feature of this store, however, is the exquisite line of chandeliers by Elegant Lighting. From the traditional to the very modern, these chandeliers are spectacular and are sure to enhance any home.

Listen carefully to the Geneva Sound Systems featured at Style 52. These are the only sound equipment offered in the store, and the product features a minimalist design, and most importantly, great sound.

Often you will hear music wafting out of the store on a sunny day, drawing in shoppers curious to see what all the excitement is about. And artistic souls will admire Style 52’s unique metal and acrylic art pieces from selected artists around the world. “We feel our products are rare décor pieces that will inspire our clients,” comments Larry.

Style 52: A Furniture and Lighting Experience

lighting, and have honest enthusiasm for offering an experience beyond the norm.

The grand opening of Style 52, just over two years ago, was inspired by Larry’s passion for beautiful furnishings and vision of providing a stylish store that offers a unique shopping experience. “We had a vision to source and provide home décor products that were not already in our market,” Larry says. “Halifax has embraced the ‘boutique experience’ when it comes to shopping for furniture, and we felt a need to share our desire for bringing new and innovative products to our clients.”

Style 52 provides offerings from Italy, such as an exclusive selection from Natuzzi, which is “noted for its sleek contemporary styling,” says Francis. Other products, such as the Dallas-based American Leather brand, are manufactured in the U.S. American Leather supplies a range of upscale leather, upholstered and reclining furniture for those clients who prefer sleeker, more contemporary styling.

Style 52 is not your average furniture store, and there’s no need to travel outside the province when its showroom can provide you with highly stylish products. The sales team in this store have become trusted providers of “soft contemporary” furniture, décor and

American Leather offers an innovative Comfort Recliner™, which, the American Leather website says, “features the Infinity System, a personal, infinite-position system that adjusts to your exact comfort needs.” Additionally, they provide an exclusive and patented design of Sofa Sleepers, as well as a new category of home theatre seating. The “Cuddler”™

To Larry Gibson, few things are as rewarding as the feedback from a satisfied client. Whether you’re looking for flooring that will lay the groundwork for your perfect interior, or that special piece of upholstery that finishes your home décor, the “plus” factor at Floors Plus and Style 52 will surely keep you coming back for more. Visit www.floorsplus.ca for a location near you. FLH Floors Plus info@floorsplus.ca | www.floorsplus.ca | HALIFAX 127 Chain Lake Drive 902.450.1166

truro 10 Wade road 902.895.4118

DArtmoutH 31 Sterns Court 902.468.3111

moNCtoN 645 malenfant Blvd 506.854.7979

Selection Centre BrIDGEWAtEr 164 Logan road 170 Joseph Zatzman Dr 902.468.9054 902.527.2564 CAmBrIDGE 5681 Highway #1 902.538.8826

Style 52 127 Chain Lake Drive 902.450.1166 www.style52.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

109

Selecting and Buying Paint or Stain

By Shell BuSey

T

he Government of Canada introduced regulations aimed at protecting the environment and the health of Canadians from the effects of air pollution. These regulations reduced the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that were allowable in alkyd paints, varnishes and wood stains. As of September 2012, paint retailers are no longer able to sell items that do not comply with the new regulations. Most manufactures have been able to create water-based products of a similar or better quality to replace the previously sold alkyd oil-based products.

Step 1: Choose the Gloss Gloss is the amount of “shine� the paint has when it dries, ranging from flat (no gloss) to high gloss.

Flat-to-low gloss finishes are the most popular paints and stains for siding and

110

FineLifestyles

HRM

fences. Gloss paints are popular for doors, railings and trim and on areas exposed to high traffic or abrasion. Gloss and semi-gloss finishes are tough and durable and are characterized by a sheen that results in a cool, crisp finish that reflects light.

Step 2: Choose the Paint Type Paints are designed to be used on certain surfaces and to perform well under different conditions.

Latex (water-based): Easy to apply and clean up, low odour, quick drying, durable, it can be applied to partially moist surfaces; it resists peeling and chalking and is flexible.

Second coats can be applied within two to four hours of the first coat. Available in many glosses and sheens, it is ideal for siding, fences, stucco and masonry.

Enamel: A glossy finish that is tough, durable, smooth and impact resistant.

Enamel finishes are available for a wide variety of surfaces including surfaces such as metal and pipes.

Wood Stains: Paints cover the surface, but stains soak in and allow the natural texture of wood to show. Stains are popular for textured wood surfaces.

They are ideal for wood siding, shingles, shakes and fences.

Solid Colour Stains: Penetrate and cover the natural grain of wood, but allow the natural texture of the wood to show. Use on new wood or previouslystained surfaces.

Semi-transparent Stains: Penetrates the surface of the wood to protect and colour, while letting the natural grain and texture show. They are ideal for new wood or over previous semi-transparent stained surfaces.

Specialty Paints: For decks, driveways, machinery, masonry and rusty surfaces.

Be sure to choose the right type of paint.

Step 3: Choose Primers Primers seal the surface and help form a tight bond between the topcoat and

underlying surface material. Primers should be applied to surfaces that have never been painted and areas that are bare or have been patched. There are products that are considered “two-in-one,” serving the purpose of both a primer and paint.

The two key factors in primer selection are adhesion to the surface and compatibility with the topcoat. The paint you choose will usually identify a recommended type of primer on the label.

Step 4: Finalize and Select Your Colours Step 5: Buy Your Tools and Materials Make sure you buy the best quality tools that you can afford. Top quality tools will save application time and achieve better results.

Most jobs can be done with a few quality tools including one or two premium brushes, a sturdy paint tray that can be attached to a ladder, and one or two good rollers. Check with your paint store to see what tools they recommend for use with the products you have purchased.

For more home improvement information, to send Shell an email, or to watch Shell’s AskShell webcast, go to www.AskShell.com. FLH

You’re not just buying a home, you’re buying a lifestyle.

INGONISH-BY-THE-SEA, CAPE BRETON

56 CLUB HOUSE LANE, GLEN ARBOUR

Relax in your single detached 3-bedroom, luxury vacation home with an open living concept and a jaw-dropping vista that includes North Bay and Ingonish Island. Flexible ownership options including fractional and full ownership.

It would be hard to find a better location in Glen Arbour. This gorgeous bungalow is located three houses past the entrance to the golf course and overlooks the 18th fairway of Glen Arbour golf course. Two lifetime golf memberships are included with the home.

MLS® #85161669B kirkmosher.com/experience-ingonish

MLS® #40806374 $590,000.00

Kirk Mosher 902.240.4600 kirkmosher@exitmetro.ca www.kirkmosher.com

Dartmouth – 110 Garland Ave. Halifax – 6960 Mumford Rd. Suite 2128 Bedford – Bedford Place Mall, Second Level 902.444.EXIT (3948) | www.exitmetro.ca

Independent Member Broker

FineLifestyles

HRM

111

A combination of a central ceiling fixture complemented with recessed pots and table lamps is the perfect combination for all your needs. The use of dimmers allows for soft ambiance.

Bedrooms to Suit Your Lifestyle

Do you do a lot of reading in your bedroom? Where do you prefer to read—in bed or a chair? If it is in bed, make sure that the table lamps you choose are tall enough and that the shades flare out to properly illuminate your book. I personally love to read in bed and always have a stack of books in waiting on my bedside table. If you prefer to sit in a chair to read, add an ottoman for more relaxation.

Bedside tables should be close to the height of your bed. A little lower or a bit higher always works well both functionally and aesthetically. I like to use small bureaus, which provides you with a good sized top surface, and they double as storage.

Bea Doucet Owner & Operator Doucet - Watts & Davis Interiors 1203 Hollis Street, The Westin Hotel Halifax 902.422.0963 bea@dwdinteriors.com dwdinteriors.com

B

edrooms have become so much more than just a place to sleep.

In new homes and condominiums, master bedrooms have become very spacious. They offer a place to retreat from the hustle and bustle of our dayto-day lives.

When I am approached to design a master bedroom, there are many questions that need to be asked. Do you watch TV in your bedroom? Do you use your computer here? Do you want speakers for music? Think of all the technical things you might want.

What about lighting? I am a great believer in overhead lighting in bedrooms.

112

FineLifestyles

HRM

A good mattress is a must. If your room size allows and you and your partner have different mattress needs, I suggest a pair of twin mattresses that you put together.

There is a product called “Create a King Connector Strap,” that makes a smooth transition, and then use kingsized sheets. This allows maximum comfort for both people. The benefits of a good night’s sleep are immense.

Bed pillows are just as important. I usually suggest two per person: one down-filled and one synthetic, giving total comfort and support.

Bed covers—duvets, duvet blankets, bedspreads, coverlets—come in endless varieties and are wonderful.

The covering for your bed can have a large impact on the décor of the room, as do the walls and window dressings.

Beyond the décor aspect of window dressings, there are many things to consider. Do you have a privacy or sun issue? The window treatment can be layered. I usually suggest drapery. For sleeping, you have the option of having drapery with a dim-out lining that allows hints of daylight in the morning; but, if you like a room to be completely dark, then you can choose a blackout lining.

With blackout lining you have to rely on your alarm or body to wake you. An

additional interior treatment can act as a buffer to the sun with some visibility, but it also allows for some privacy. The combinations of two treatments give wonderful flexibility of function and looks lovely.

Whether you want your bedroom to be a quiet retreat, a lively space or anything in between, make sure you put thoughtful consideration into creating a space that suits your lifestyle. FLH

Our Showroom - Sometimes you need more than just a picture.

902 468-2945

Our Technology - The most advanced equipment in the industry.

admin@novatile.ca

www.novatile.ca

Our Inventory - We stock the most inventory in Atlantic Canada.

Bringing a Piece of TiBeT To nova ScoTia

By Brook ThalgoTT PhoToS Bruce Jollimore

P

aul Susnis and the team at Susnis Decorating Centres know a lot about decorating your home to make it a beautiful, inviting space that suits your personal style. “We’re proud to supply Benjamin Moore paints in all three of our stores, and we’ve got wallpapers, window coverings and decorator fabrics as well,” says Paul. “But we’re more than just walls and windows.

We’ve got a collection of unique and gorgeous Tibetan rugs that will make any room shine.”

At the ColorWorks on Strawberry Hill location, Paul stocks a collection of Tibetan wool rugs imported from Nepal.

Paul visits Nepal every year, and he returns to Halifax with genuine Tibetan carpets in hand. “Each rug is pot-dyed, hand-spun and hand-knotted, from highaltitude wool,” says Paul. “The wool is rich in lanolin, making the rugs stain-resistant

114

FineLifestyles

HRM

and durable.” Available in traditional and contemporary designs, you can purchase rugs in-store or online. Custom orders are available, and rugs can be made to almost any size. And, when you order a rug, you’re doing something positive for the Tibetan community in Nepal, as carpet-making is an important source of income for Tibetans. A medium sized carpet provides work for one weaver for a month, and an income sufficient to support a family.

View the Tibetan rug collection online at susnispaints.com, or come see and feel at ColorWorks, 3667 Strawberry Hill in Halifax. FLH ColorWorks 3667 Strawberry Hill Halifax 902.455.1335

Burnside Decorating Centre 202 Brownlow Avenue Dartmouth 902.468.8408 Acadia & Quigley’s 6243 Quinpool Road Halifax 902.423.4915 below Paul Sunsis, owner

TM

Five new supernatural designs.

5380 Emperadoro

902 468-2945

5220 Dreamy Marfil

5141 Frosty Carrina

admin@novatile.ca

5003 Piatra Grey

5000 London Grey

www.novatile.ca

InvestIng In QualIty Pays Huge DIvIDenDs on energy BIll

By Paul Sinkewicz Photos Bruce Jollimore

A

s Sun Tzu says in the Art of War, “Know your enemy.” For Peter Lewis and Samuel Rad, owners of Halifax’s Niche Homes Inc., the enemy is not other homebuilders. Sure, they are the competition in a sense, but the real nemesis in this campaign is a stealthier foe. It is the nor’easter that rattles windows and freezes breath, and the Arctic air mass that settles in for a long, unwanted visit. It is also the cold, damp Maritime air probing for weaknesses that seeps in through cracks and under doors, and burrows, seemingly, to the bones.

116

FineLifestyles

HRM

Lewis and Rad are fighting the elements on behalf of their customers, who must foot the energy bill to keep their families comfortable. “We not only design an inspiring living space that brings our clients joy, but we also ensure we give them a very tight, energy efficient structure that will reduce the energy demand,” says Lewis.

Rad says meeting the minimum building code is not enough. Niche Homes Inc. uses energy efficiency rating systems like EnerGuide for Homes, R2000 and LEED

Canada for Homes as its benchmarks.

LEED Canada for Homes is not being done by anyone else in the area, except in commercial building, says Rad. The firm doesn’t seek accreditation for individual homes, but uses the knowledge and expertise in their construction.

Making a new home as energy efficient as possible means considering details like its orientation to the sun, having the right number of windows on the south side and creating a tight seal to keep heat and air conditioning inside.

“We are the first builder in HRM that installs solar water heating panels on the roof as a standard feature,” says Rad. “It preheats the water. That’s where you realize your energy savings, especially in the winter months when the water coming into your home is a lot colder than it is in the summertime. And outside air temperature doesn’t matter.

It’s all about the sunlight.”

Niche Homes Inc. uses solar heating panels designed and built in Halifax by Thermo Dynamics Limited, which has a 25-year track record supplying the region and the world. The company also uses Andersen Windows, a world leader in energy efficient, low-E argon technology.

Heating units in Niche homes are either air source heat pumps, or geothermal heat pumps. Where natural gas is available, it might be used in conjunction with the heat pump.

“With oil or electricity, you will pay a premium for the heat, and it’s not great for the environment. Heat pumps

harvest the energy in the temperature of the air or the water in the ground,” says Rad. “These are the most efficient heat systems out there.”

Niche does custom builds and also offers spec homes for sale. It offers simplicity in the design of its homes, eschewing ostentation in favour of simple, clean lines and high quality fittings and fixtures. All their homes have an open concept and modern styling, and every single light fixture sports either an LED or compact fluorescent light.

Niche Homes Inc. has many customers who have gone from older, less energy efficient buildings to one of their modern, high-efficiency homes. The payoff is the significant, even dramatic, reduction in their energy costs. FLH Niche Homes Inc 1161 South Park Street, Halifax 902.446.7770 www.nichehomesinc.com RIGHT Samuel Rad and Rebekah Streeter; Samuel Rad and Peter D. Lewis

L–R Klaus Pollmann, Kris Hodges, Martin Hodges

AppliAnces thAt Fit Your needs

BY Cindy Hodges

A Family Run Business

C

reative Appliance Gallery is a family owned and operated business. “We first opened our doors in July, 2009, but we have a combined experience of 16 years in the appliance industry,” explains Kris Hodges, owner Martin Hodges’ son.

In January of this year, they were very fortunate to have a new member, Klaus Pollmann, join the team. “He has brought many years of experience and his native German language has been very helpful in assisting many of our clients,” says Kris.

When visiting Creative Appliance Gallery, it is clear to all who walk in the door how much pride the family has in

118

FineLifestyles

HRM

their business. “My grandfather had a saying, ‘it’s only work if you don’t enjoy what you are doing,’” states Kris. The philosophy behind the company is to ensure the best possible service for their clientele and to provide them with a peace of mind in the selections they have made.

The Creative Way Whether you are building or renovating, the stress can become overwhelming with so many choices and decisions that need to be made. Creative Appliance Gallery’s staff evaluate each customer’s specific needs by taking the time to build a relationship with them and, by doing so, they are able to help select the perfect appliances to meet their style of

cooking. “By knowing what is new and up and coming on the market, it gives us an edge in helping our customers know that other choices are available,” says Kris. “Products such as microwave drawers, full-surface induction cooktops, combination convection steam ovens and pop-up downdraft systems are very popular right now. We also know that, as wonderful as it is to purchase these new high-tech appliances, there is a learning curve in using them. This is made simple and easy in our live showroom.”

Distinguished Appliances Creative Appliance Gallery offers quality European and North American brands such as Gaggenau, Thermador, Miele, Bosch, Liebherr, Subzero, Wolf and many

others. All products are backed up with the best factory warranties. In addition, Creative Appliance Gallery also offers extended warranty packages.

The Wonders of the Steam Oven According to Martin’s wife, Cindy Hodges, the steam oven is her favourite appliance in the kitchen. “Not only is it a healthy way of cooking, but it also allows you to enjoy the true flavour. Many clients tell me that they use little or no seasoning on their food. The surround steam keeps the nutrients in the food and the flavour locked in. You cannot duplicate the texture, colour or flavour by cooking in any other way than with the steam oven,” she says. There are many benefits to this appliance: in a pinch, you can revive your leftovers, sterilize bottles and much more. You can multi-layer cook a meal such as salmon, rice and vegetables all at the same time, without the transfer of flavours to each other.

This technology is available in steam or a combination of steam and convection.

Excellence in Service Whether you’re looking for a new or existing home, the staff at Creative

Appliance Gallery will be with you every step of the way. They work closely with the architects, designers and cabinetmakers to ensure that the job goes as smoothly as possible, from the beginning of the project to the end. “We provide the detailed specifications for the electrical and plumbing to assist the sub trades and, where possible, do site checks. If there is a problem of any kind, we will go the extra mile to rectify it as soon as possible, that’s what truly sets us apart,” says Kris.

New and Exciting Products The staff are very excited about their newest addition, the Urban Cultivator.

This unique product is perfect for your year-round indoor growing of fresh herbs, sprouts, wheat grass and much more. The Urban Cultivator can be plumbed directly into your household water supply for automatic watering.

It’s convenient, healthy, saves you money and only takes up the space of a dishwasher. Freestanding and commercial models are also available.

Another new product is the Brew Express: a 10-cup built in coffee maker that also plumbs directly into your household water supply.

In the Mood for a Specialty Coffee?

Take a moment and drop in to Creative Appliance Gallery and enjoy a specialty coffee or cold beverage while you view the newest additions to their appliance lineup. FLH Creative Appliance 38 Fielding Avenue Dartmouth 902.481.3313 kris@creativeappliance.ca www.creativeappliance.ca

120

FineLifestyles

HRM

Style with Substance.

At East Coast Specialty Hardwoods, we mill the highest quality, hand-selected lumber.

Choose from our selection of in-stock mouldings milled on site using kiln-dried, furniture-grade lumber.

Or, with our expansive collection of over 2000 profile knives and custom grinding capabilities, we can create or replicate mouldings from any specie in our inventory.

eastcoastspecialtyhardwoods.com 53 Wright Avenue, Dartmouth, NS 902.468.3334

Specialty lumber | Mouldings | Wide and long plank flooring | Domestic, exotic, and marine plywood

Design for Anyone.

Design for everyone.

By Rebecca SchneideReit

I

f you want somebody to direct a deluxe ceiling-to-cellar renovation of your home or business, transforming the interior from top to bottom, Ray Frizzell can do that. And if you want somebody to sit down with you for an hour to help you choose wall colours that’ll make your apartment pop, Ray Frizzell can do that, too. “I’m fairly flexible,” Ray notes, but that’s a rather significant understatement.

This interior design consultant and his eponymous company, Ray Frizzell Design, have worked on homes, cafés, salons and more. Size, scope and style vary wildly from job to job: what stays consistent is the beauty and functionality of Ray’s results.

Ray Frizzell, owner; photography by Jennifer Galliott

122

FineLifestyles

HRM

Ray’s talent for design was evident long before he hit the books officially. “Since I was a wee little kid, I’ve always done this. I would rearrange my bedroom,” he laughs. “I’ve been picking my bedroom colours since I was five.” His eclectic background saw him earn university degrees in environmental design and architecture, as well as undertake postgraduate work in urban/rural planning, before opening Statement (a high-end furniture boutique on Agricola Street) in 2003. At Statement, Ray found himself

dispensing increasing amounts of design advice to customers. “Before I knew it, I was just helping people pick things . . . it kind of grew from there,” he says. Popular demand for his services finally saw Ray sell the store five years ago to focus on Ray Frizzell Design.

In his own words, Ray’s design style is “fairly contemporary. I like simple, clean lines. I like some bold gestures balanced with simplicity. But,” he adds, “As far as my style goes, it kind of is filtered through my clients . . . it’s really site specific and project specific.” Although Ray can adapt to most customer requests or environmental demands, his contemporary instincts can also create serendipitously harmonious results in unexpected places. “I put modern pieces in a Victorian home,” Ray says of one recent job. “It was really a lot of fun.”

Ray doesn’t have one specific speciality, rather he has several specialities, including his versatility. He does enjoy the challenge

of small space design, maximizing the usability of retail or residential properties of limited size. “People are downsizing . . . every square inch counts.” (Ray’s small space design process involves analyzing a property’s floor plan and its spatial relationships, then prioritizing its various functions to make the space as useful as possible.) In addition, he’s something of a bath and kitchen veteran. “Some of the kitchen transformations have been a lot of fun.”

Whatever job he’s working on, Ray charges the same flat hourly fee. “I’m very conscious not to build up huge, billable hours, because I think that deters people.” And while many of his jobs are larger-scale additions or renovations, “I do things that are even a couple of hours.”

After all, the mission of every design job—whatever its size—is to help clients discover what works best for them. “It’s all about . . . guiding people,” Ray says.

“They’ll look at you and say ‘I would never have picked that, but it’s so me.’” FLH

Ray Frizzell Design www.rayfrizzell.com 902.456.2795 rayfrizzell@me.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

123

The BenefiTs of sun and shade, ComBined

By Rebecca SchneideReit

N

othing gives a room more charm and character than windows: to admit natural light and fresh air, to enlarge a space or to add visual interest. Yet, the first thing many property owners do is cover their windows with blinds or drapes, effectively negating the reason windows were installed in the first place. There is an alternative, however: window film. It is virtually clear, economical, low-maintenance and

124

FineLifestyles

HRM

preserves a window’s original benefits while adding benefits of its own.

Maritime Window Film Specialists is a family business, started in 1979

by Chris LeClair. Chris’ two sons, Denny and Serge, joined him roughly 20 years ago. Serge is now based in Halifax, looking after the Nova Scotia and Newfoundland areas, while Denny manages business in New Brunswick and PEI.

“Everybody who has a window is a potential client,” says Chris.

“Whether you want to block out the sun’s heat, glare and fading rays; add privacy or décor to your windows; or make your glass shatter-resistant, we have a window film for that.”

After decades in the trade, Chris has an eye for quality. “When I started 34 years ago, there was no training available. I had to learn by doing,”

TOP Chris LeClair, general manager; photo by Tanya Everett MIDDLE Moncton office, photo by Tanya Everett BOTTOM L–R brothers, Serge and Denny LeClair, Halifax office, photo by Jennifer Galliott

he explains. “Now, all of our installers are factory-trained and certified, resulting in flawless workmanship.”

At its simplest, window film is a coating applied to a window to reduce unwanted glare and heat, as well as the fading of furniture and art. Window film can block up to 80 per cent of heat, 92 per cent of glare and 99.9 per cent of UV rays; the most basic film is indistinguishable from glass. “Depending on the film chosen, you can’t even tell that there’s something on the window,” Chris says.

In addition, Maritime Window Film Specialists offer decorative film, which can economically recreate the effect of frosted glass, provide privacy or be cut into custom designs by Ryan Prosser, the in-house graphic designer. They also offer security film which prevents glass

from shattering in the event of weather disturbances or attempted theft. “We have over 100 rolls of different films in stock at all times,” Chris says. “Our choice of films is pretty well unlimited.”

Chris recommends that potential customers arrange a consultation at their home or business. “The client should see what the film looks like on their window, not on a piece of glass in our office,” he says. “We have hundreds of samples that we bring.” A quote is provided within the day, and film can usually be installed in two weeks: windows are cleaned prior to installation, and clients don’t pay until after the process is complete.

Once the job is finished, each film carries a lifetime warranty and maintenance is comparable to that for an untreated window.

With a thriving trade in both residential and commercial markets, Maritime Window Film Specialists’ A+ Better Business Bureau rating is indicative of the care with which they treat each customer. “I’m proud to say we’re the best in the business,” says Chris.

A business built around providing customers with sunlight that’s even more appealing than nature intended.

No curtains required. FLH

Maritime Window Film Specialists Halifax 902.422.6290 Moncton 506.855.0855 Toll Free 1.800.667.8468 Fax 506.382.2839 www.cooltint.com mrtint@rogers.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

125

Renovating YouR Home Like it’s tHeiR oWn

By Brook ThalgoTT photos Jennifer gallioTT

F

or a decade, Pat McCarthy Renovations has been reinventing spaces and homes in Halifax. A journeyman carpenter by trade, Pat McCarthy is committed to making sure every home renovation that his company completes is perfect. “A home renovation is a commitment by the homeowner, in terms of time and money,” says Pat, “And we recognize and respect that commitment. We work hard to make sure every client we serve gets what they paid for, and more.” The

126

FineLifestyles

HRM

team at Pat McCarthy Renovations handle all sizes of home renovation— big or small; they provide the same quality of work, no matter the size.

Pat and his team walk every homeowner through the home renovation process from beginning to end. “When a client contacts us, asking about a home renovation, we explain exactly what it will entail and what they can expect,” says Pat. There are many steps to cover in a successful renovation. First, you

need to know what you want to do, whether it’s just one room or an entire home. And, you need to have proper construction plans created by a home designer or an architect. “We encourage every client to see a home designer or architect for home plans,” advises Pat. “A professional can take into account your current circumstances and help create a space that will suit the existing home, your wants and your budget.”

After that, it’s time to get quotes. Pat tells all his prospective clients to get

ABOVE Pat McCarthy

two or three, and then discuss financing options with the bank, if needed. Once those steps are completed, the contract is prepared and the team gets ready to start work—and that’s when the fun begins.

“We treat every home we work in like it’s our own,” says Pat. “We know that handing over your home and money to us is a big deal, and we treat it as such.” Whether McCarthy Renovations is doing one room or the whole house, their goal is to make the home seem like the renovation blends in. “The best renovations are the ones that don’t look like renovations,” says Pat. “The trick is to make the renovated areas match seamlessly with the home. Done well, it’s like your home was this fresh and beautiful right from the start.”

At the end of each day, the crew tidies up the working areas and keeps the mess to a minimum; it’s one of the many things

the McCarthy Renovations team does to treat your home well. During the process, things may come up, but Pat is always quick to keep homeowners informed.

“Nobody likes surprises when renovating, but there’s usually something, even if it’s just a little thing,” adds Pat. “If something comes along, we keep you informed, and we find a solution.”

Customer Majorie Hickey can attest to the fine work done by the McCarthy Renovations team. She liked their work so much that she hired them again for her second renovation. “We originally had Pat and his crew build an addition to our home, gutting and expanding the kitchen and adding onto a second floor bedroom,” says Marjorie. “The team did a beautiful job, and Pat kept us informed about their progress and any issues that arose.”

Pat and his staff impressed Marjorie for many reasons: one being the way they

treated her home. “They kept the work areas so clean and tidy. It was great to see the care they took with our home,” says Marjorie. “Now, Pat and his team are back and renovating the first floor of our home, and the process has been just as good as the first time around. We’d highly recommend Pat McCarthy Renovations to anyone looking to renovate their home.

We couldn’t be happier.”

If you’re considering a home renovation— from one room to gutting your entire house—the McCarthy Renovations team is ready to chat about what they can do for you. FLH

Pat McCarthy Renovations 13 Ashdale Avenue Halifax 902.406.3368 patmccarthyrenos.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

127

Moulding: Opening Doors to Your Space

Fernly Norris Moulding Warehouse 18 Caper Court Hammonds Plains, NS 902.832.3217 f: 902.832.2097 sales@moulding-warehouse.com

R

emodellers and DIYers spend billions annually on residential remodeling, but they often overlook a room’s most important feature: the interior door. Serving as the entry to the space, it provides the first impression of the room and shapes your feelings about the space. Interior doors, along with mouldings and trim, should be on, or near, the top of the list when it comes to sprucing up your home, as they play an integral role in the home’s décor.

Take a stroll through your home and pay particular attention to the interior doors and trim; there is a good chance that they are outdated. A potential

128

FineLifestyles

HRM

home buyer will pick up on this right away, but may not mention it to avoid insulting you. You need doors with fine detail and individual expression that pop or reflect your unique personal style. This will make your home much more appealing to buyers in a crowded and competitive market.

which will give your home a bright, airy feel. When selecting a French door, you may also want to purchase French door hardware. Make sure to keep the rest of our home’s hardware in mind when you’re selecting it; you should have no problem choosing something that carries a common theme throughout the space.

Replacing your interior doors is a beautiful and inexpensive way to create an interior that really stands out.

Look for doors and moulding that match and complement your home’s current décor. For instance, here at Moulding Warehouse, we can help you find stunning raised-panel interior doors with a large selection of designs and finishes.

By simply updating these elements, you can exponentially increase the value of your home.

French doors are not only for large extravagant homes, it actually makes good sense to install them in a smaller home too; they allow natural light to travel to the smaller spaces, which reduces the use of light fixtures. By giving the room a cheerful look and providing a visual bridge between two adjacent living spaces, French doors are a great home addition, providing the feeling of completion.

Another decorative choice is the French door. It’s a beautiful solution to dressing up an entrance way to an interior room, library, pantry or even a wine cellar.

It introduces light into the room, creating a wonderful ambiance. French doors will give your home a classy, elegant feel without spending a fortune. They have been a great design feature in some of the nicest homes for centuries.

Most quality interior French doors are made of solid wood and can be stained to match the interior of your home; or, you may opt to have it painted white,

Installing a new interior door is a quick and easy. It can be an enjoyable few hours that will dramatically enhance your home. You can replace them all in a weekend or two, and you will be giving your entire home a remarkable face lift. If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of taking this project on without help, find someone who can offer you the guidance to complete the project.

Many companies like Moulding Warehouse can provide you with simple, step-by-step instructions that, when completed, will leave you with a beautiful transformed home, a great sense of pride and your guests awestruck. FLH

Achieve Sensational Styling Using Our Mouldings Visit our showroom and view our selection of: • Interior doors and extensive line of hardware • Ceiling accents • Decorative mouldings • Specializing in architectural mouldings Tammy Mackay, CEO

• House lot specials

w ww. m ou lding-warehouse.com 18 Caper Court 902.832.3217

| Hammonds Plains, NS | sales@moulding-warehouse.com

Extend your season and living space with Natural Light Patio Covers and Sunrooms.

30-year warranty Engineer certified

Our customers are asking for a…

902.452.4422 1.877.707.7427 www.nlpcns.ca

S O L U T I O N

olid, permanent year-round structure  utdoor furniture is protected and enjoyed all seasons  ets in natural sunlight, without darkening our home  niquely engineered certified system  ruly maintenance free and affordable  ndividual, custom fit enclosure, designed to complement our home; not an afterthought  ffers protection from ALL elements (wind, heat, rain and snow)  o more bugs and pesky flies 

opposite L–R Michelle Beaver, showroom manager; Stephen Clevett, management trainee/consultant

ElEmEnts of Bathroom ElEgancE

By Rebecca SchneideReit Photos tom england

O

nce upon a time, a bathroom was a bathroom. But for more and more modern professionals, the home bathroom now does double or triple duty as boudoir, dressing room or spa. It reflects your personality as much as your living room or your bedroom. Are you classic or contemporary? Fun-loving or elegant? Whether you prefer warm wooden accents or cool natural stone, geometric designs or graceful curves, your bathroom says something about you. Elements Bath & Kitchen can help you choose what statement to make.

Thanks to their knowledgeable staff, two-storey showroom and convenient Chain Lake Drive location, Elements Bath & Kitchen is a single-stop solution for

132

FineLifestyles

HRM

bathroom improvements from replaced faucets to complete refurbishments.

Their gallery features an array of European fixtures, many not easily found in the Atlantic area. Display models are maintained in perfect working order so that clients may accurately gauge a fixture’s water pressure and flow. Once customers have selected a tub, shower or sink, Elements’ staff can recommend a qualified installer; it’s a streamlined process that allows clients to enjoy their new find as soon as possible.

Michelle Beaver, Elements’ showroom manager, keeps the business accessible to customers through social media like Facebook and Twitter. She posts not only industry news and business

information, but also articles, statistics, community announcements and helpful suggestions that might interest her patrons. Michelle’s customer service model goes well beyond helping clients once they’ve walked in the door— in fact, she’s happy to walk through theirs instead. “We do site visits. I’ll go and give people ideas,” explains Michelle. “There are a lot of funky, fun things you can do in a bathroom.” Michelle herself is planning a major renovation of her own upstairs bathroom this fall; her secondary powder room already features a dualflush toilet and colour faucet. “My house is more traditional, but my bathroom is ultramodern,” she says, “and you can totally get away with that.”

Elements’ selection encompasses international bathroom designers such as Kohler, Fleurco, Neo-Metro, Victoria + Albert and more. Right now, however, they’re especially excited about their Hansgrohe bathroom products. The company was established over 100 years ago by eponymous entrepreneur Hans Grohe in Germany’s Black Forest.

They’ve grown since then, but it’s still a family business in spirit, overseen

by Grohe’s grandchildren.

Hansgrohe’s Axor brand, now stocked at Elements, is the aesthetic brainchild of international designers including Philippe Starck, Patricia Urquiola and the Bouroullec brothers. Within the line, each designer showcases his or her unique take on the luxury bathroom.

The Starck shower collection, for example, is a steely, austere exercise in the fundamentals of decadence. The Bouroullec Composer, on the other hand, affords customers the freedom to arrange their own bathrooms, down to the positioning of the faucets,

while the Urquiola collection eschews severe minimalism for a vintage feel and nostalgic air. Despite their varied aesthetics, however, the Axor designers have one thing in common: pursuit of the perfect combination of form and function. “It’s just beautiful,” says Michelle. “The Axor is my favourite.”

The bathroom is the most private place in the home, but that doesn’t mean it’s insignificant. On the contrary: it’s a space where you and your guests will relax, refresh and recharge every single day.

Whatever your personal preferences— silver or porcelain, modern or retro— Elements Bath & Kitchen can help you build a bathroom that goes above and beyond. FLH

Elements Bath & Kitchen 127 Chain Lake Drive, Halifax 902.450.7060 www.elementsbathandkitchen.com |

Our private living space is a mirror of our personality, telling the story of the people who live in this space and who provide it with a character all its own.

Combine your own invigorating mix of styles with the new Axor Urquiola collection to create your own personal retreat.

For more information visit Dwell on Design booth 1428 or www.hansgrohe-usa.com

Attention to detail is the hallmark of true custom work.

A fusion of affordability and luxury.

5 Canal Street, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia jaye@creativemillworkanddesign.com 902.497.5141 www.cmdkitchens.ca LTD

MLS# 41294976

Dreamgate Homes

Luc deMontigny, owner

D

MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY

reamgate Homes was established in 2006 by owner Luc deMontigny, who currently resides and operates in the newly developing Lisle Lake subdivision in Middle Sackville. When you think of dedication, integrity, top-quality customer service and custom built homes, many think of Dreamgate Homes. Their attention to detail, top

136

FineLifestyles

HRM

tradesmen and cutting edge home heating options add instant value and are a tremendous investment with a fantastic return on your home heating budget for years to come.

Dreamgate Homes understands that building your home is a substantial investment, which is why they work

with you from start to finish. Dreamgate Homes assists their potential and new clients with the designs and materials to suit their budgets and lifestyles. Attention to every small detail ensures that your custom-made home is built with quality materials and craftsmanship. Along with a guaranteed EnerGuide Rating of 86+, Dreamgate Homes are built for yearround Nova Scotia weather with healthy

ABOVE L–R MLS# 41295262, MLS# 41295197, MLS# 40852543

living and comfort in mind. The properties

by Dreamgate Homes are also equipped with the latest technologies available, which make enjoying every season and climate easier.

Breathe easier, live longer.

R2000 certified homes are built to a higher standard, thus they are more durable and comfortable to live in. Dreamgate Homes installs low ambient air source heat pumps and high-efficiency heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems.

Homes come with a standard 10year, new home warranty to offer peace of mind as well as a Tech Ready certification. Furthermore, all homes have a third-party team that inspects, tests and certifies your new home to ensure it meets all stringent guidelines of the R2000 program.

Value and invesment. Did you know that if you invest an extra $10,000 to $15,000 to upgrade to a R2000 home, your total monthly expenses are less than if you didn’t? You could borrow the extra money at only three per cent interest and, in return, you could save up to 60 per cent in your utilities cost per month. Not only does it cost a lot less, but you add more value and comfort to your home, and consuming less energy is better for the environment.

Lisle Lake subdivision is located within one of the top family neighbourhoods in HRM: the very popular Berry Hill subdivision. Lisle Lake subdivision is made up of acre plus lots, the perfect spot for your custom built Dreamgate home. Lisle Lake boasts an abundance of natural waterfowl consisting of loons, ducks, Canada geese and a beautiful

bald eagle has recently been spotted soaring. It is conveniently located within minutes of all the amenities. The newly opened Margeson Drive Extension has been hugely popular with the Middle Sackville residents, enabling them access to the 101 Highway within minutes. The local schools in the area have a fantastic reputation, providing before and afterschool EXCEL programs for the younger elementary students. FLH

Dreamgate Homes 642 Rhodora Drive, Middle Sackville 902.449.9205 www.dreamgatehomes.ca admin@dreamgatehomes

FineLifestyles

HRM

137

Custom Cabinetry and Creative solutions

by Trina annand Photos a Slice of life imagery

K

itchen renovations can be some of the most rewarding and challenging renovations people can do in their homes. When a kitchen is planned by a professional, you will increase the value and equity of your home, doubling your investment.

Professional designing also changes the way a kitchen functions, making the most of the space.

For 17 years, Melanie Irvine has been helping clients create their dream spaces by increasing the function and

138

FineLifestyles

HRM

beauty of even the tiniest spaces.

“We love working with all size spaces. I enjoy the small ones the best because you really need to know your product,” remarks Melanie. The Ontario transplant and mother of three purchased Think Kitchens three years ago, creating a booming business and a completely unique shopping experience. With a combined 185 years of experience, Melanie and her team thrive on coming up with creative and innovative solutions to customers’ challenges and changing the face of

kitchen design in Nova Scotia one kitchen at a time.

What makes Think Kitchens unique is their approach to design and customer service. “We provide the complete package; it is very appealing to come into a place where there are professionals with years of experience at every level,” remarks Melanie. When working with Think Kitchens, customers first meet with either Melanie or Maria Penney to discuss their needs, wants and lifestyle. For Maria, the transition to

left th!nk kitchen Staff l–r Duane Singer,installer; Art Samson,builder/ installations; Maria Penney, sales; Martin Bishop,builder/installations; Rita Allaire,ordering/ scheduling/front office; Melanie Irvine,owner; Eddie Hartley,cabinet installation; Olivia Irvine, owner’s daughter; Shawn Romaine,granite fabrication/ installation; Joe Rout,granite fabrication

design consultant was a natural step; the journeyman cabinetmaker and custom woodworker understands all aspects of the process. With an everexpanding business, Melanie cannot work personally with every client, but she provides input into each design.

After visiting a client’s home, the experts at Think Kitchens come up with a variety of plans for the client that achieve all of their wish list in a number of ways. “A lot of kitchen companies will do a price based on exactly what a client already has. I think when people are investing the money, you have to maximize your dollar and come up with as many options as possible,” says Melanie. For Melanie, designing comes naturally; she uses her creativity to get the most out of a space by using as many innovative ways as possible.

As everything is done in-house at Think Kitchens, clients can transition from their design consultation right out to the countertop warehouse to meet stone manager, Shawn Romaine. The solid surface expert knows both fabrication and installation, plus he understands the challenges associated with each material. Clients can choose from the largest selection of exotic stone and synthetics in Nova Scotia and reserve the pieces they love for their kitchen that day. The selection at Think Kitchens is growing every week and includes granite from Brazil, Italy and South Africa, as well as quartz and marble. These stone slabs will later be perfectly trimmed for each kitchen by Joe Rout, who is both a stone fabricator and custom cabinet maker.

“What makes Think Kitchens so unique is you get to see your kitchen every step of the way and meet the people who are building it,” remarks Melanie.

Think Kitchens also supports the local economy by sourcing as much of their product as possible locally. The company truly believes in supporting the community by sponsoring soccer, hockey and basketball teams as well as Feed Nova Scotia. The company prides itself on using

“Melanie is awesome at designing, putting colours together and throwing different ideas around, it really helped me decide what type of kitchen I wanted. The installers were fantastic, they are true perfectionists and the best tradesmen I have had through my house. They were always going the extra mile.

I would definitely use Think Kitchens again.

They made the job easy and it was truly a great experience working with them.” —Frank Daaboul, Limelight Developments Ltd.

quality products for their kitchens: only using melamine, particle board or pressboard at a client’s request. The standards are always high as they use 3⁄4 inch high-grade plywood for cabinet boxes, solid wood dovetail joined drawers, softclose drawer and door hardware, as well as custom glass options. The goal is to make client’s kitchens function perfectly and be as unique as they are.

Once completed, client’s cabinetry is placed in the hands of the installation team. With a combined 50 years of experience, the installers make sure that the client’s vision becomes a reality. “When we design and install a kitchen, it’s built to last. I don’t want to get a call a year later that their kitchen is falling apart. We only use high quality products and experts in each field,” says Melanie. For those looking for a kitchen they can install on their own, Think Kitchens will soon be offering a high-end stocked cabinetry line from North America called Adornus. These in-stock options will allow clients of all budgets to get high quality products.

“We are always looking for new and exciting trends and items to better suit our clients.

We’re willing to try new things to achieve what they want. We’re just a group of people that love coming to work together and love our jobs.

It transfers to the clients and they’re happy to be here too,” remarks Melanie. FLH

Think Kitchens 187 Bluwater Road, Bedford 902.405.4481 melanie@thinkkitchens.ca www.thinkkitchens.ca

YOUR #1 CHOICE FOR RETIREMENT LIVING IN ATLANTIC CANADA. Our modern campuses offer an active and social atmosphere with a long list of amenities. For those who may require some extra help, Parkland offers a continuum of service options in a supportive environment. It’s about living your best life.

For a personalized tour contact a Lifestyle Consultant today.

Downtown Halifax (902) 406-8900

Clayton Park (902) 457-0234

Dartmouth (902) 405-7275

ExperienceParkland.com

Truro

(902) 843-7275

Sydney

(902) 270-7275

Tropical Reflections

T

ropical plants have always intrigued me. Often, my gardens reflect my travels as well as my love of large, bold foliaged plants and unusual, bright coloured flowers.

Canada may not seem like the most reasonable geography to install a tropical garden, but that’s all the more reason to play.

Sensibly, you are not likely to install permanent palm trees or huge crotons as signature framework plants, but you may consider developing a number of smaller vignettes within your garden space. I enjoy spending time in various precincts of the garden that I’ve designed to evoke particular emotions or restore memories of travels.

By Ken Beattie

Containers play a huge role in “staging” gardens and can actually set a scene on their own, if cleverly placed. Even the terra cotta planters that have succumbed to the trials of a wicked winter find a place in my landscape. Typically, I nestle these shards into the soil so as to form a backdrop for a prized plant specimen or a tiny, more delicate sample in the garden.

Larger planters that have seen better days offer shade and cooler temperatures for plants installed in and around them as they lie on their sides. This season, I have a number of very large terra cotta planters that have served us well and are now looking a tad bedraggled. These soldiers will form the backbone of an area in my rear garden for my “tropical ruins.”

Setting the theme for a tropical oasis can be as simple as dedicating a portion of your garden or deck as “tropical.” It’s a good idea to consider using overhead space, as well as ground or deck level.

Think of the space as a room inside your home; you wouldn’t consider painting or decorating the entire room and forget about the ceiling.

Perhaps using some brightly coloured parachute nylon fabric woven through the beams of a pergola roof will fit the bill.

Fabric is a very inexpensive way to dress up a landscape, either as an awning, shade roof or even outdoor curtains. Splashes of bright colours always bring back memories of tropical climates, so I use them wherever and whenever it is practical.

Clusters of containers are a safe bet when considering any garden, but even

more so in a tropical-looking garden.

Singular planters can be great as accent or punctuation points when using specimens or spectacularly bright-coloured plants such as hibiscus or bougainvillea; otherwise, clump them together.

One look that I am particularly fond of is “eclectic,” where none of the containers are similar. I often select one colour, such as cobalt blue, as the thread that ties the garden together. Pots in this beautiful blue colour will be scattered here and there throughout the collection of wall planters, large containers and singular pots. Plants that work best for me are hibiscus, followed by banana and taro, often sold as elephant ears. Pothos and philodendron, as well as any of the pteris ferns, can be used in planters where you may have used bacopa or lobelia in years past.

In direct sun and very hot gardens, a mixture of succulents will also give a tropical feel to the space. Many horticultural varieties are now available in colours spanning the rainbow and with very diverse leaf patterns. Your local garden centres and even the box stores’ plant departments will have the regular houseplant tropicals—they are perfect for this kind of garden. Areca palms usually are very reasonably priced; combined with the lime green sweet potato vine, they make a spectacular splash in your pseudo-tropics. Crotons, with their waxy, multi-coloured foliage, are a sure bet for the hot, sunny garden.

The varieties available in Canada are usually red to yellow and can be found in the houseplant section.

The trick to success seems to be variety, density and diligence. As with any container garden, you are not wise to install it and then promptly go to the lake for a few weeks—they all require maintenance.

Density plays an important role; clustered plants will hold more humidity around the specimens and thus encourage lush growth and fewer insect problems. Variety speaks for itself: any tropical garden or landscape is rich and juicy with textures, shapes, scents and form. Consider also that many tropical plants live on other plants, so that apple trees or well-branched small trees are excellent homes for many orchids and ferns.

The big question: what do I do with all these plants over winter? Now, that is a good one! FLH

FineLifestyles

HRM

143

Peter Andresen and Pam Murray, owners

Saving Your Back, Time and The environmenT

BY Nykea Marie Behiel phoToS Bridget havercroft

P “

eople’s lives are very busy and they’re getting busier every day,” says Peter Andresen, co-owner of the new LawnBott Atlantic business.

“The LawnBott speaks to that need—it serves the young and old alike. We’re all too busy or not physically capable,” explains Peter. The LawnBott is the solution to a problem you didn’t know could be solved.

Owners Pam Murray and Peter Andresen were thrilled to see technology taking the place of such an arduous, timeconsuming task. The LawnBott is a

144

FineLifestyles

HRM

perfect complement to their Invisible Fence Brand of Annapolis Valley business.

Distributed by Kyodo America Industries Co. Ltd., this leading edge technology, already prevalent in Europe, is making its footprint in Canadian households. This state-of-the-art lawnmower detects weather, so it will not run itself in the rain, and distinguishes the difference between lawn and garden, so it will not ruin your flowers. While calculators, dishwashers, washing machines, cell phones and computers have become ingrained in the fabric of modern society, LawnBott is sure to follow.

This robotic mower not only saves time and physical labour, but the environment as well. “If you’re pushing a normal gas mower for an hour, you’re actually creating as many pollutants as 11 cars on the highway in that same time,” says Peter. A LawnBott promises a green lawn in more ways than just one, and it runs as quietly as an electric toothbrush, so no need to worry about disturbing your neighbours.

“Our customers are absolutely ecstatic,” says Peter. And they should be—no more wasting time on chores

instead of the things that are truly important to you. “LawnBott is for people who would rather be doing something else—taking the kids to soccer, watching the grandkids or doing what they get paid to do.”

“I love the ability to help people deal with a problem they thought there was no solution for,” remarks Peter. “It’s really gratifying to help people out— get them out of a task that was onerous or not possible for them anymore. If we can remove that strenuous task, nothing makes me happier than making other people happy. People owe it to themselves to look at it with fresh eyes. It’s about being smart and efficient with your time.” FLH

LawnBott Atlantic 902.300.3200 Metro and Annapolis Valley 902.521.7592 South Shore peter@lawnbottatlantic.ca www.lawnbott.com/atlantic

“As business owners who travel frequently, it is a relief to know that Zena (our LawnBott) is keeping up with the lawn. We no longer have to worry about finding time to mow; the LawnBott does it all for us! People walk by our house and watch Zena work and marvel at how well she maintains the lawn. Most people are not yet aware that this technology exists, so we enjoy telling them about all the features. Pam and Peter have transformed our summers. From the initial needs assessment to the installation, it was an extremely pleasant and speedy experience.

Zena has been a great investment in keeping our property well-maintained while ensuring we make the most out of our free time.” – Sylvie Thibault

Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay

By Brook ThalgoTT Photos Bruce Jollimore

L

iving on the east coast means that water, and enjoying the water, is part of everyday life; and Eagle Beach Contractors Ltd. is all about the water. This marine construction company—specializing in construction and service of timber, steel and concrete structures—has been building and repairing wharves, seawalls, boat launches, breakwaters, ramps, floating docks and more since 1984.

Led by Pieter Webbink, the local, family owned business has two professional

146

FineLifestyles

HRM

engineers on staff, plus a skilled team of superintendents, labourers and operators.

Eagle Beach Contractors Ltd. can handle jobs of any size, from large marine contracts to small residential docking systems. Committed to working safely, their safety program earns a certificate of recognition from the NSCSA annually, and their equipment maintenance and certification program ensures the safety of anyone on or around site.

Eagle Beach Contractors Ltd. is also the exclusive dealer of EZ Dock for Halifax, Lunenburg and Hants Counties. “EZ Dock

is the industry leader in modular docks,” says Amy Connolly, EZ Dock sales and safety representative. “These docks have a 40 to 50 year life expectancy and can be used in a multitude of ways.” Its flexible coupler system, eight-year warranty and unmatched stability are just a few reasons why EZ Dock is the premier floating dock system on the market.

EZ Docks can be installed in lakes, rivers and the ocean. “We stock almost all EZ Dock components,” says Amy. “You can literally come in, pick up a dock and assemble it yourself using EZ Docks

installation tools, or you can have us complete the installation for you.” Eagle Beach Contractors can also customize an EZ Dock system for you and your specific needs—the possibilities are endless.

Customer David Moore can attest to the service provided by Eagle Beach Contractors. “I was looking to install a dock at my lakefront property, and a tenant of mine passed along a brochure from Eagle Beach,” says David. “I had them install my EZ Dock three years ago and have since bought many EZ Dock components and accessories from them.”

David’s relationship with Eagle Beach Contractors Ltd. was not a one-off experience. “They install and remove my dock every year, and they are always able to answer any questions I might have,” says Dave. “I can’t say enough good things about Pieter and his team, and I have recommended them over and over in the three years since I first started working with them.”

Eagle Beach Contractors’ showroom spring hours are: Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., plus you can call anytime for an appointment. Visit their website for more information, off-season hours and to arrange for your free site visit and quotation today. FLH Eagle Beach Contractors Ltd. 2033 Hammonds Plains Road Hammonds Plains 902.835.7664 amy@eaglebeachcontractors.ca www.eaglebeachcontractors.ca GROUP SHOT Shane Webbink, Pieter Webbink, Nancy Webbink, Scott Webbink, Amy Connolly

So Much More Than Your LocaL GreenhouSe

BY Julie Mushynsky phoToS Bruce JolliMore

B

loom Greenhouse and Garden Centre in Hammonds Plains is embarking on their ninth season. Owned and operated by Cathy Oulton, she aims for Bloom to be more than a typical greenhouse.

“We grow almost all of our annual plants on site, which is the reason we have such a large selection,” explains Cathy. The first week of June is usually focused on vegetable gardening, and Bloom has all the supplies needed to start. The staff can advise on how to begin your first vegetable garden.

Bloom promotes growing your own food, being more self-sustaining and decreasing carbon footprints. In order to do this they want families to get involved. “We want people to have fun

148

FineLifestyles

HRM

with it, so we offer ideas and help with getting kids excited about gardening. I have young children too, so I know how important it is to keep them busy,” says Cathy with a chuckle.

Not only does Bloom offer an abundance of plants and supplies, they also offer seminars, workshops and a landscape design service to their customers.

Informal seminar sessions are free and provide a wealth of information on a variety of topics. Each seminar lasts 30 minutes and is followed by a question and answer period.

Registration is not required—you just need to show up.

For adults and children, workshop sessions are more hands-on and involve fun, do-it-yourself projects

facilitated by Bloom staff. The fee associated covers all materials for your project, which you take home.

For the children’s workshops, an adult companion is required.

Seminar and workshop topics include trends in edibles gardening, summer bulbs, kids veggie planters and edible hanging baskets. “I’ve been told we have the nicest hanging baskets in the city,” says Cathy. Workshops and seminars are typically every second Saturday and Sunday and, by request, Thursday mornings twice a month. Space is limited for workshops, so registration is required. You can register by phone at 902.832.9268, by emailing mail@ bloomgreenhouse.com or in person at the garden centre.

After the May long weekend, people are looking to make their properties and outdoor entertainment spaces beautiful, and that is where Bloom’s designer comes in. Landscape designer and horticultural consultant Kelly Grant has been helping customers garden for over five years. She can help you enhance your yard aesthetically while considering environmental sustainability. “We want to help educate people on what types of flowers and shrubs will best suit their yard,” says Cathy. If you are a new homeowner starting from scratch, Kelly can help with that too.

For all your gardening needs, give Bloom Greenhouse a call or visit the centre. People looking to plant their first garden—through to seasoned growers —can find what they are looking for at Bloom. FLH Bloom Greenhouse and Garden Centre 1421 Hammonds Plains Road Hammonds Plains 902.832.9268 www.bloomgreenhouse.com mail@bloomgreenhouse.com

Staff picture l–r Debbie Blaesing, Heather Spurrell, Dianne Lanteignee, Wendy Haley, Denny Baxter, Linda Besaw, Cathy Oulton, Colton Vandermolen, Piper (dog)

Nova

CEntrE Breaking Ground, Building the Economy

By Trina annand

N

estled in the heart of the downtown core is a gaping hole in the landscape, a hive of activity and the future home of Nova Centre.

Scheduled to be completed in December of 2015, the development is a massive undertaking with a combined one million square feet of interior space spread over two city blocks. Nova Centre will play home to the new convention centre, a finance centre, luxury hotel, residential units, retail space, parking and public space. The blasting, that has been as common place as the noon cannon, will soon subside and give way as preparations for the foundations are completed and concrete pouring is scheduled to begin in June. It won’t be long before Nova Centre is visible above ground.

The development, created by Rank Inc. and headed by Joseph Ramia, has experienced a high level of public scrutiny.

As part of the process, Nova Centre was the subject of 12 public consultations, which enriched and shaped the design for the building, making Nova Centre a truly Nova Scotian project. “We have heard thousands of people. This project is shaped by what people want to see. It is iconic and it will represent who we are as Nova Scotians, where we have been and where we are going,” remarks Ramia. As a result of the consultations, interior plans have changed, and the convention centre has been moved above ground. The project now encompasses 50 thousand feet of exhibit space and 18 thousand square feet of public space.

Rank Inc. is striving to be as environmentally friendly as possible in the construction. The end goal of the project is to attain LEED certification and become the largest green development in Atlantic Canada. Ramia believes that this project is not only an opportunity to acknowledge Nova Scotia’s unique place in the environment, but also its place in the economy. He hopes that Nova Centre will encourage a renewal of the downtown core and convey a sense of hope. “Nova Centre will be a landmark that reflects Nova Scotia’s emerging confidence, our proud past and fuel our future. A place that will serve as a forum for our next exciting opportunity,” notes Ramia.

Nova Centre has already signed a tenant; the new convention centre will occupy 290 thousand square feet of the space.

Scott Ferguson, president of Trade Centre Limited, says Nova Centre is a hallmark project. “This is one of those transformational projects that has come along for Halifax and Nova Scotia. We need it as a vehicle to attract investors, spenders and delegates from around the world,” he says. The convention centre itself will feature a 30 thousand square

foot ballroom with sweeping city views.

This convention powerhouse will allow Nova Scotia to compete with larger facilities in other provinces. There are already three large events booked for the new convention centre after its opening in January 2016.

The more than 500 million dollar project is receiving funding from all levels of government, totaling 163 million dollars.

In the 10 years after Nova Centre opens,

FineLifestyles

HRM

151

the province expects to generate 85 million dollars in tax revenue that will be used for public services like education and healthcare. “Nova Centre is Nova Scotia’s next big thing. Along with the shipbuilding contract and the Lower Churchill project, it is another signal of Nova Scotia’s growing prosperity, confidence and optimism,” remarks Percy Paris, minister of economic and rural development and tourism. For Paris, this project carries a lot of economic clout, making Nova Scotia even more of a destination for business. The project will draw new business, tourism and infuse the economy with new life.

During the construction phase of the project, 1,700 man years of work will be created: that is 425 jobs. Though Nova Centre has been a contentious project for some, it is occupying a very important position for Halifax.

Nova Centre is serving as a catalyst for change and revitalization in a downtown core where vacant lots and buildings have become common place.

Nova Centre will propel Nova Scotia into the future with a sleek design and big plans. FLH

152

FineLifestyles

HRM

Big Investment Mistakes to Avoid

a financial plan. The study went on to state that those who had planned for retirement had two-and-a-half times as much money for retirement as those who did not.

Nicolas J. Grady Assante Capital Management Ltd. 102 – 190 Victoria Road Dartmouth 1.800.469.7775 ngrady@assante.com www.nicolasgrady.com

M

any investors have, by now, fully recovered from the downdraft of the global financial crisis.

Hopefully, you are among those who are now enjoying profits once again. Take a moment, however, to think back: does the market decline and volatility bring feelings of worry and uncertainty? If so, you may wish to make longer-term adjustments to your financial plan now before these feelings return.

Big Mistake #1: No Plan There’s an old proverb that states: if you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there. The same is true for investment strategy. Without a clear plan, any old investment might appear suitable without fully understanding your choices.

A few years ago, a study by HSBC stated that two thirds of Canadians do not have

Big Mistake #2: Sabotaging Your Returns Not having an investment policy is another common mistake. Without a policy that states the asset mix, risk level, what you will buy and sell and when, investors are left to make decisions on instinct. If you look at studies over time, investors have an accurate ability to buy high, and sell low and then wonder why they keep getting lackluster results. Instead of buying for the wrong reasons, try tailoring your portfolio and setting downside limits that will help you avoid the pain of any losses beyond your comfort zone.

Big Mistake #3: No Tax Strategy Tax planning is often a missed opportunity. Mishandled, tax will diminish your ability to fund your retirement. Our tax system rewards entrepreneurs and punishes savers. There are several ways to structure your family of accounts to maximize taxation opportunities, such as: 1. Using Corporate Class fund structures; 2. Holding high-taxed assets in lowtaxed family members’ hands; 3. Utilizing tax shelters to their full potential; and,

4. Loaning investment capital to your lower-taxed spouse.

Big Mistake #4: Lack of Discipline Your investment policy should be built around a balanced approach that respects the level of risk you are willing to take, allocating safer investments for preservation and riskier assets for growth. Try spending time designing an appropriate investment policy now while your accounts are rising and panic is not driving your decisions. Put it in writing.

The next time capital markets go wrong or disappoint, be disciplined enough to stick with your well-planned policy.

Awareness and avoidance of these four big mistakes will help you create, manage and preserve your wealth with greater ease. Professional advice will further simplify your efforts.

Nicolas Grady helps individuals plan and retire sooner. He is a senior financial advisor with Assante Capital Management Ltd. in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Assante Capital Management Ltd. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and is registered with the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. The opinions expressed above are those of the author and not necessarily those of Assante Capital Management Ltd. Please contact a professional advisor to discuss your particular circumstances prior to acting on any of this information. FLH

FineLifestyles

HRM

153

Maximizing Fuel Economy

your savings as you make changes.

Secondly, if you see a sudden decrease in fuel economy, it is a signal to have your vehicle serviced.

Eric Noël, EIT Supply & Transportation Coordinator Wilson Fuel Co. Limited 3617 Barrington St. Halifax 902.429.3835 www.wilsons.ca

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

M

any factors influence your vehicle’s fuel economy. In this expert advice column, I will offer tips on how to care for your vehicle as well as suggest changes to driving habits that will help reduce fuel consumption.

The first step to maximizing fuel economy is to measure your consumption. This is important because it provides a starting point to measure

154

FineLifestyles

HRM

Fuel economy is measured using one of two popular metrics: miles per gallon of fuel consumed (mpg—where higher values mean better economy) or liters of fuel consumed per 100 kilometers (L/100km—where lower values mean better economy). Many cars automatically report these metrics, but if yours doesn’t, you can calculate it by resetting your odometer the next time you fill up. At subsequent fills, you can then divide your liters pumped by the odometer reading and then multiply by 100 to obtain your L/100km. Do not forget to reset your odometer again.

Vehicle care is important to maximizing your fuel economy. Any extra resistance on your engine or drivetrain is going to decrease your fuel economy. It is important to keep your engine in tune and use the fuel and motor oil specified in your owner’s manual. A dirty engine air filter can significantly decrease fuel economy; it should be cleaned or replaced at least once per year. Brakes should be periodically inspected to ensure they are properly disengaging.

Tires should be properly inflated and any unnecessary heavy cargo in your car should be removed. Also, remove unnecessary roof racks or roof cargo

as wind drag has a significant negative effect on fuel economy.

Driving habits certainly make a difference in your fuel economy. Rapid or aggressive acceleration should be avoided as it consumes a lot of fuel and increases drag, which impacts fuel economy. It is better to obey speed limits and drive carefully. Idling is a sure way to obtain 0 mpg. If at all possible, avoid travelling during rush hour where traffic is often “stop and go,” and turn your engine off in long drive-thru lines.

During the winter, there are scientific reasons why fuel economy will naturally suffer. First, any car will have to work harder to maintain its velocity since rolling friction is higher in the cold.

Likewise, all engine and drivetrain fluids will have a higher viscosity in the cold; thus, there is additional resistance in the components’ internal moving parts.

Also, colder air is denser, so that means additional drag, and any tire slippage on icy conditions is wasted fuel. Lastly, more heat loss to the atmosphere means less available energy to be converted into mechanical energy.

Implementation of these tips should help increase your fuel economy. If you have tips of your own or comments on this article, we would love to hear from you on our Facebook and Twitter pages. FLH

don’t wait… save now!

At Wilsons Gas Stops you will

save 3.5 cents per litre every time you pay with cash or debit in HRM locations. So, don’t wait—savings are just around the corner.

Fill up today with wilsons Gas stops.

Riding the SummeR AwAy

By Trina annand Photos Ed BoulTEr

ABOVE PHOTO courtesy of Sean MacLennan

T

hose looking for a festival that is anything but ordinary should visit the Wharf Rat Rally. For eight years, the picturesque fishing town of Digby has been inundated by bikers and tourists. Originally conceived as a small bike rally by Alex Joannides and Peter Robertson, the rally has become a must-see Maritime event. In 2011, the small town of 2,100 people saw 50,000 visitors and 24,000 motorcycles for the rally. As a result of the event’s success, the Warf Rat Rally Motorcycle Association (WRRMA) has become a non-profit group that contributes and partners with various charities.

and enjoy biking. The event showcases a multitude of bikes, as well as boat racing, burnout competitions, speed trials, demonstrations by the Moncton-based Hub City Stunters, music and much more.

Throughout the event there will be live music: so far this year the WRRMA has received 150 applications to play at the event. For chairman Glen Dunn, music is an important way to celebrate local talent. Another way the event endorses local talent is the Builder’s Showcase.

Bike builders from all over Canada come to the event to display their artistry and to connect with their peers and potential clients.

MacLennan. Through the connections made at last year’s rally, MacLennan has sent his bikes across the country. Last year was Non-stock’s first appearance at the rally, but MacLennan and his partner, Joey MacRoberts, will return this summer.

For MacLennan, meeting with experts in the field was an added bonus of the event; what really matters is the riding. “Biking is a great stress reliever; it gives you instant clarity and completely changes your thought process. There is an added sense of satisfaction knowing you built what you are sitting on,” remarks MacLennan who rides his first custom build, a project he is continually re-envisioning.

The event was created as a place where motorcycle enthusiasts could enjoy each other’s company and bikes. Now, the rally has become a weekend-long celebration of all things bike related that welcomes not only motorcycle owners, but spectators as well. The event draws visitors from all over the world to come, see the province

For Sackville builder Sean MacLennan of Sean’s Non-stock Customs Ltd., the rally was an important step towards his dream of being a full-time builder. “I love bikes; I would be fine just building under a rock, but the event got me out there. The great thing about it is talking and biking with your peers, meeting people you look up to in the building community,” remarks

Camaraderie is an important part of the Wharf Rat Rally, but the economic spin off of the event cannot be overlooked. In a study by the province in 2011, it was discovered that the event generated $8.9 million in economic activity for Nova Scotia and $1.9 million in tax revenue.

The rally creates an economic wake that is undeniable. This year, Saint John, New

FineLifestyles

HRM

157

Brunswick is creating their own pre-rally event to accommodate travelling bikers and take advantage of the increased traffic.

“Our event is second only to the Tallships for revenue generation for the province.

Before the rally, there was a 10 per cent occupancy rate at hotels in the area.

Now it’s 99.9 per cent,” remarks Dunn.

The event is made possible by a mainly volunteer effort, it was only recently that the WRRMA was able to have a full time staff member; volunteerism is the key to this event’s success.

Ben Cleveland, mayor of Digby, has always admired motorcycles, but only became a rider last year when he and his 89-year-old father got their learner’s permits. “Riding is great because you are more engaged with the world around you. You’ve got the wind in your hair and the bugs in your teeth,” chuckles Mayor Cleveland.

The rally has become something locals are proud of. As of a result of this pride, the waterfront of Digby is receiving a series of renovations to better accommodate signature events like the rally. Like many small towns, Digby was facing some challenges with the economy and depopulation. Local volunteers and government took a stand and have reenvisioned the community’s place in the world. “Digby is looking ahead. We’re not looking back at the things rural communities have lost. We are reinventing ourselves. Our community has gone from the most romantic place in Canada to a festival hub,” remarks Mayor Cleveland.

Over the summer, the community will be a hive of activity, hosting a fire truck rally (the first of its kind in Canada), the always popular Lobster Bash and Scallop Days and finishing the summer with the Wharf Rat Rally. “My favourite part of the event is the anticipation. Seeing the town come alive for the event,” remarks Mayor Cleveland.

For Dunn, the event is a culmination of the love of riding. Visitors to the rally can take advantage of a number of rides planned around the event and through the province. “When you own a motorcycle, you love riding. Travelling to the rally is a part of the event: it’s the trip as well as the destination,” remarks Dunn.

Those wanting to learn more about the event or biking in Nova Scotia should visit www.wharfratrally.com. FLH

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY SECTION

EXPLORING THE RICHES OUTSIDE OF THE CITY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Country Charm, Metropolitan Style

By Rebecca SchneideReit PHOTOS nova Scotia touRiSm agency PhotogRaPheR Scott munn

T

he Annapolis Valley’s pastoral charm is no secret: visitors from Halifax and beyond flock to the Valley’s campsites, farm markets, and U-picks. To be fair, there’s no better proof that you’ve escaped the city than driving past a field full of placidly grazing cows. But the Valley is also a cultural hotspot featuring firstrate food and drink, accommodations, and entertainment. Where to stay, where to go, what to eat, drink, and do: here are a few suggestions to rival Canada’s biggest cities for quality and style.

There’s no shortage of accommodations in the Valley area, from quaint bed-andbreakfasts to lavish resorts. The Blomidon Inn (Wolfville) is one standout: the Inn’s website describes its premises as “a tastefully restored sea captain’s mansion built during Nova Scotia’s glorious days of sail,” and the spot is further recommended by its much-vaunted restaurant and Victorian gardens. And, if you choose to stay at the Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa or the Brier Island Lodge, you needn’t venture far for entertainment: the former features spa services and golfing, while the latter offers whale watching tours.

Food and drink in the Valley likewise run the gamut from modest familystyle eateries to Nova Scotia’s finest dining. Le Caveau (Grand Pré)—which won the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Best Fine Dining award in 2013—showcases the talents of chef Jason Lynch and company. Meanwhile, at Wolfville’s Front & Central, chef Dave Smart’s dinner menu is a lineup of delicious-sounding entrees, with a mouth-watering robust dessert menu.

OPPOSITE PAGE Luckett Winery BELOW L–R Domaine de Grand Pré, The Port Pub

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

CLOCKWISE Zip line, Grand Pré National Histroic Site, Upper Clements Park roller coaster

Laura Pierce, a travel counsellor at Halifax’s Waterfront Visitor Information Centre, recommends the Port Pub (Port Williams): “They use a lot of local products.”

The Annapolis Valley is, of course, famous for its vineyards—many in such close proximity that you can visit several in a day. “They’re worldclass,” says Laura. Wineries such as Domaine de Grand Pré (Grand Pré), Gaspereau Vineyards, and Luckett Vineyards (both in Wolfville) offer tours and wine tastings. The Avondale Sky Winery (Newport Landing) is especially charming, with retail offered inside a former church moved from its original home in Walton. Since those are just of few of the many regional wineries, you might consider taking a wine tour (such as Grape Escapes Nova Scotia Wine Tours or Go North Tours) to learn as much as possible.

162

FineLifestyles

HRM

Now you know where to sleep, eat and drink—but what to do? Start with a taste of local history. You can learn about Acadian culture at the GrandPré National Historic Site (indeed, the landscape of Grand Pré itself has been recognized as a World Heritage Site

by UNESCO). Visit the Historic Site’s Interpretation Centre, Memorial Church, and view the bronze statue of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s Evangeline, the Acadian heroine of an eponymous epic poem published in 1847. At PortRoyal National Historic Site, meanwhile, historical interpreters relive the past for curious visitors. “They have it all set up as it would have been in the early 1600s,” says Laura. The Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, and the area’s many “historic house museums”, are also more than worth the trip.

Keeping children entertained in the Valley is as simple as a trip to Oaklawn

Farm Zoo (they’ve recently announced a new addition in the form of lion cub Sterk) or the perennially popular Upper Clements Parks. Upper Clements is divided into two areas, the Theme Park and Adventure Park: the former features classic entertainments such as a Ferris wheel, flume ride and wooden roller coaster, while the latter’s a rough-andtumble undertaking that’ll have your kids at “zip lines”. Complete your day with a trip to the Valley Drive-In (Cambridge), which lights up the summer nights with double features (check the screenings in advance if you require family-friendly entertainment).

With its wealth of activities and attractions, a week-long vacation couldn’t begin to exhaust all the Valley has to offer; but if you can only spare is an afternoon, you’ll still have a wonderful time. Don’t be surprised if you spend the car ride home planning your next trip. FLH

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Golf Away From it All

Experience golfing close to the city, but worlds away. Surrounded by lush forests, Avon Valley Golf and Country Club is the perfect getaway.

A 30-minute drive from the city will transport you to a mature course filled with wildlife. Welcoming golfers for 40 years, Avon Valley is a full service marshaled course. Check the weather on our live webcam and escape the rain in Halifax.

Make a rainy day a perfect day; visit the sunny side of Nova Scotia.

Es

t

71 19

AV O N VA L L E Y

AVON VALLEY Golf & Country Club

595 Falmouth Back Rd., Falmouth | Office: 902.798.26.73 | Pro Shop: 902.798.2673 | avonvalleygolf.com | info@avonvalleygolf.com

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

GRAND PRÉ’S WINES Enjoy Worldwide Success

BY REBECCA SCHNEIDEREIT PHOTOS MELISSA KELLY

N

owadays, Nova Scotian vineyards are clustered like grapes on the stem. But go back a decade, and the landscape was different.

“Twelve years ago, there was only one winery around Wolfville, and it was (Domaine de) Grand Pré,” says Hanspeter Stutz, Domaine de Grand Pré’s president and CEO. When the Stutz family took over the winery in the nineties, they ushered in the Valley wine renaissance we’re enjoying today.

“We brought a new quality level to the province.” “(Domaine de) Grand Pré is the oldest farm winery in Atlantic Canada,” agrees Jürg Stutz,

164

FineLifestyles

HRM

Hanspeter’s son and Domaine de Grand Pré’s winemaker. But the Stutzes appreciate the emerging competition. “It’s very exciting to see what’s happened in the last decade,” says Jürg: the abundance of local wineries ensures a shared excellence of product. “We give huge pressure to the other wineries on the quality side, and the beauty is, now, they give us the pressure back,” Hanspeter confirms.

The 2012 launch of Tidal Bay, Nova Scotia’s first wine appellation, confirmed the international calibre of local wines. Tidal Bay wines are refreshingly crisp whites with a “signature aromatic component” unique to Nova Scotia’s

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

ABOVE Jurg Stutz, wine maker

grape-growing region. Every Tidal Bay wine must meet strict viticultural and winemaking standards, and be submitted to a tasting panel for approval.

This year, Domaine de Grand Pré will produce their third Tidal Bay, a true labour of love. “We have to reduce the crop level to three tonnes per acre,” says Jürg. “This ensures the highest quality grapes, with an optimal balance of aromas, sweetness and acidity.” That work paid off in last year’s vintage. “The 2012 (Domaine de) Grand Pré Tidal Bay shows vibrant flavours and lots of depth without compromising the freshness of this beautiful summer wine.”

Jürg is also excited about 2012’s Rosé.

Made from a blend of L’Acadie Blanc and Maréchal Foch grapes, it’s perfect for summer barbeques. “It’s a dry rosé,” Jürg notes, “Which makes it a nice food wine.” The winery’s other products range

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

from white, red and sparkling wines to unique offerings such as the Pomme d’Or apple dessert wine. “Whatever we do here,” says Jürg, “we really focus on the quality.”

Domaine de Grand Pré’s wines are exported worldwide. “We have so many visitors from Europe who say ‘we should have your wine here,’” Hanspeter chuckles. To meet demand, they send bottles as far abroad as Germany, Switzerland and China. Additionally, the winery’s valley location welcomes more than 30,000 annual guests.

A trip to the winery (situated near Wolfville, in historic Grand Pré) can last all day. Visitors may tour the vineyard, enjoy a wine tasting, visit the shop to find gifts for family and friends, or dine at Le Caveau, Domaine de Grand Pré’s acclaimed restaurant. Overseen by Chef Jason Lynch, Le Caveau has received

accolades from bodies including Taste of Nova Scotia, the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce and Wine Access magazine (which named it one of 20 “World’s Best Winery Restaurants”).

If the weather’s good, guests can relax on Le Caveau’s patio, where they won’t miss a second of sunshine.

But whether you visit the winery in person, or search out their label at your local NSLC, Domaine de Grand Pré knows how to satisfy wine lovers. White or red, sweet or dry, every bottle is one of their best. FLH Domaine de Grand Pré 11611 Highway 1 Grand Pré 1.866.GPWINES 902.542.1753 www.grandprewines.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

165

An Exquisite Dining Experience in the Heart of Nova Scotia

Le Caveau Restaurant is the perfect place for intimate meals and lively celebrations. Chef Jason Lynch and his team focus on regional Nova Scotian product prepared with a global flair, and our experienced service staff makes everyone feel welcome.

Whether you join us at our fine dining restaurant for dinner or to sip wine on our grapevinecovered patio, Le Caveau will certainly serve up a memorable experience. The property’s spacious outdoor terrace hosts our popular live music and martini nights, as well as private parties and weddings, making it the ideal spot for your next event, celebration or night out.

11611 Highway 1, Grand PrĂŠ | 1 866.GPWINES 902.542.7177 | www.grandprewines.com

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Golf in

Majestic Surroundings on an Eco-Friendly Course Only an hour from Halifax, Eagle Crest Golf Course provides a relaxing getaway from the everyday. The 18-hole course offers friendly service with a non-member welcome policy. Delight in spectacular views and wildlife sightings surrounded by lush forests of Centreville.

Golf while experiencing cutting-edge technology with the new EZ Go Golf Carts, which offer GPS functions, show the distance to the hole and email your score to you at the end of play. Relax after a game on the new clubhouse’s deck with a cool drink and panoramic mountain views.

2075 Lakewood Road, Centreville 902.679.3033 | www.eaglecrestgolfcourse.com |

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

ABOVE L–R Deborah Nicholson, Mike Butler, Chris MacQuarrie, Emma Jones, Mary Kyd

Designer Lighting anD expert service

By Trina annand PHOTOS MaTT Kozera

N

ineteen years ago, while looking for a job, Chris MacQuarrie stumbled into her dream career.

Eight years later, MacQuarrie transitioned from employee to entrepreneur, and Atlantic Lighting Studio has been a thriving business for 11 years. Atlantic Lighting Studio has positioned itself as the premier destination for designers, architects, contractors and homeowners looking for inspiration and education when seeking lighting products. In their new location at 430 Main Street in Wolfville, the specialists at Atlantic

168

FineLifestyles

HRM

Lighting Studio will be able to provide clients with a fully interactive state-ofthe-art lighting experience. Customers can find the perfect lighting for every job, and they can also be confident that it is the right choice.

Atlantic Lighting Studio recommends that customers come in as early as the blueprint stage of home building to get expert advice on their lighting needs; lighting shouldn’t be an afterthought.

“People building their dream homes

forget that they will grow older there.

As you age, you need more light to see,” notes MacQuarrie. Looking to the future is another specialty of the lighting designers at Atlantic Lighting Studio. Visitors to the showroom can try different lighting systems in real life settings like a dining room, kitchen and bathroom. Tech savvy clients might be interested in a lighting control system that can store pre-programmed lighting levels to set the mood; there is even a system that can control lighting through an iPad. Atlantic Lighting Studio has

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

“No matter how complex and tricky my lighting problems are, you help me solve them all—and with such enjoyment! Renewed thanks for your unflagging help and happy personalities.” —Judith A. also invested in AGi32 lighting software, which calculates lighting performance for selected projects.

stay on the cutting edge of new lighting technology, with specialties such as landscape lighting and interior design.

“We are still here for the people who are just trying to find that hard-to-find light bulb,” chuckles MacQuarrie. Customer service is fundamental to a successful business, and the Atlantic Lighting team is ready to handle any job, big or small.

MacQuarrie is so passionate about lighting that she is one of only four American Lighting Association certified lighting consultants in Canada. “What I love about lighting is there is always something to learn,” says MacQuarrie.

The entire team at Atlantic Lighting Studio is continuously trained and educated to

“We will not sell someone something that won’t work in their space. We have had to convince people out of a light fixture before; people don’t realize scale in a showroom,” says MacQuarrie. Lighting has come a long way since the days of merely having a ceiling light and table lamps. It is more effective to have layers of lighting in a space to accommodate tasks, mood, social interaction, security and safety. Different types of light levels are required whether it is a romantic evening for two, games night or a quiet evening of reading. MacQuarrie and her

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

team ask numerous questions to help clients find the right lighting; it is more complicated than simply picking a style.

Function, style, size, energy efficiency, tasks performed, quantity and quality of light all play a role in lighting selection.

Unlike at big box stores or the average hardware store, the team at Atlantic Lighting Studio knows lighting inside and out. Their custom lighting design services set them apart as experts in their field. When building a home or redecorating an existing home, it is best to work with an expert, and there are none better than the team at Atlantic Lighting Studio. FLH Atlantic Lighting Studio 430 Main Street, Wolfville 902.542.3431 866.542.3431 www.AtlanticLightingStudio.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

169

A Different WAy of Doing things Photos Matt Kozera

G

arden season is here at last. Enjoy your summer with a fresh array of colourful plants and flowers.

With over 40,000 colourful annuals and 700 varieties of wonderful perennials to choose from, It’s time to get outside and add some curb appeal to your home or business property. Situated on 26 acres, Blomidon Nurseries has one of the largest selections of shrubs, evergreens and trees in Eastern Canada. Located in Wolfville, off exit 11 on Highway 101, it’s less than an hour from HRM.

170

FineLifestyles

HRM

For over 40 years, Blomidon Nurseries has been growing beautiful high quality flowers, vegetables, trees and shrubs. According to general manager Andrew Palmer, impeccable service and superior quality plants and plant products continue to bring customers back year after year. Repeat customers are often found smiling and in a state of happiness as they wander amongst the beautiful, friendly surroundings. This is the experience that Blomidon Nurseries wants its customers to have.

“We work as a family and love the feeling it gives,” states Palmer as he explains that some of the staff has been working for the nursery for over 25 years. “We have a lot of great people around us who know and love plants,” he adds. As a customer, you will feel the passion for gardening and the “green thumb” knowledge that the Blomidon staff willingly provides you. With the large selection of trees, shrubs and evergreens in their extensive wholesale yard, customers often enjoy a walk beyond the well-stocked retail lot.

Among seasonal specials, customers

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY always find the value pricing policy a pleasant surprise at the cash register.

Blomidon Nurseries also offers a plant warranty and, depending on the plant, a three month to one year warranty is available. Simply ask one of the highlyqualified staff members for details.

Customers often need design and custom services. New for 2013, Blomidon Nurseries is now able to offer computer generated renderings and designs for your property. This interactive process with the design team is not only fun, it also helps build equity in your home.

When visiting the nursery, the popular year-round retail building newly constructed in 2011 offers great gift selections. The gift shop, located within the main store, contains a wide selection of glassware, giftware, jewellery and

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

more. In our 4,000 square feet of retail space we have something for everyone, even those that are hard to buy for and if you can’t decide on that special gift, a gift card is always an option.

adjacent to Stems Café is also available for conference and business meetings upon request.

Blomidon Nurseries is also home to Stems Café, a licensed cafe that offers a great selection of beverages, treats and meal options for you to enjoy on the outside patio, surrounded by beautiful plants. Customers have the opportunity to relax to easy listening music and enjoy a cup of the Stem’s own blend coffee as they ponder their gift or plant purchase decisions.

To help support the local community, Blomidon Nurseries sponsored the Destination Wolfville coupon book as a popular fundraising tool for Feed Nova Scotia. These books cost $10 and contain 29 coupons from local businesses in the valley with $4 of each book going directly to Feed Nova Scotia and $4 to service clubs or schools who wish to sell the book. “We are very excited about this opportunity to support such a worthy cause,” says Palmer.

With 13 full-time employees growing to 40 seasonally, Blomidon Nurseries is open year round. During the winter months, Blomidon Nurseries offers their ever-popular Christmas shop, educational seminars and full retail experience. The community room

The folks at Blomidon Nurseries take pride in what they do. Researching the newest varieties and growing the plants that are best suited to the Maritime climate and soil conditions remain top priorities. Whether customers are looking for the best in vegetable

172

FineLifestyles

HRM

transplants, annuals, flower baskets, perennials, fruit trees, shrubs, specimen trees or garden supplies, Blomidon Nurseries has what you’re looking for to get your yard or garden looking great.

“Most professional landscapers buy here,” says Michelle Muis, Blomidon Nurseries’ wholesale manager, “and that provides confidence for all of our clients.”

Retail hours of operation are Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., while wholesale hours of operation are Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday open seasonally from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. FLH Blomidon Nurseries 10060 Highway 1 Greenwich 902.542.3346 www.blomdonnurseries.com

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

FAMILY AND COMMUNITY BLOOM AT THE APPLE BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

BY REBECCA SCHNEIDEREIT PHOTOS A SLICE OF LIFE IMAGERY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

I

f you grew up in Nova Scotia, you may already treasure Apple Blossom Festival memories. I know I do. I can remember being four or five years old, standing on the sidewalk with my sister, watching the parade of princesses pass by and smiling so wide my face hurt. Sentimental? Sure.

But the other kids there were smiling just as hard, and I bet wherever life’s taken them, they remember that day, too.

The first Apple Blossom Festival—the Valley celebration honouring the whitepink flowers that herald autumn’s apple crop—was held in 1933. Come 2013, the blossoms are still feted annually, and each year’s Apple Blossom events may last a week or more. “It’s just a great way for a family to come and have a fun day,” says Apple Blossom Festival publicity codirector, Dwight Whynot. “There are ... traditions that go back 80 years.”

This year’s festival ran May 29 to June 3, and presented a bevy of official ceremonies, performances, social gatherings, family activities and contests, as well as less easily categorized events such as fireworks, laser tag, a reptile show and an antique tractor demonstration.

One definite highlight was guest musical act, Old Crow Medicine Show, known for their heartstring-tugging ballad “Wagon Wheel.” They played a sold-out concert with Matt Anderson at Acadia University.

Among the most anticipated of the annual Apple Blossom events is the festival’s double parade on Saturday morning: first there was a costumed children’s parade, then there was a Grand Street Parade, a massive procession that lasted about two hours. “For me, the highlight [of the festival] is the Grand Street Parade,” says Dwight. The sheer quantity of spectators and tourists is a testament to the draw of the parade. “On a nice, sunny day, you’ll have 100,000 people lined up on the sidewalk.”

An equally impressive number of performers march down the street each year. A typical Grand Street Parade features marching bands, majorettes; sometimes, even the RCMP “don their red serge, put up with the 30 degree temperatures and make the walk.” Parade floats are the icing on the cake, including a float honouring each Previous Page The 81st Queen Annapolisa, Michelle Saade from New Minas. This Page A few of the highlights of the Grand Street Parade

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Apple Blossom Princess and, of course, Queen Annapolisa.

The crowning of Queen Annapolisa has been an Apple Blossom cornerstone since the festival’s inception. Potential queens— “princesses”—are chosen from a baker’s dozen different Valley regions to participate in this “leadership competition,” with a new queen announced annually at a Coronation Ceremony. The newly incumbent Queen Annapolisa, New Minas’ Michelle “Micha” Saade, studied Human Kinetics at St. Francis Xavier University. She received a $500 gift and a paid summer immersion program at Université St. Anne, among other honours.

Don’t be fooled by the Leadership Competition’s royal vocabulary. The contest is less about sitting pretty with a parasol than about confidence, charisma and community. “It’s the furthest thing from a beauty pageant,” says Dwight.

Each princess puts in a season of provincewide community involvement before the coronation: “They’re ambassadors of their community and of the Valley,” Dwight says.

“They become a very tight knit family.” The princesses’ public speaking skills, volunteer commitments and social involvement— in school or the community—all help determine the new Queen.

The Apple Blossom Festival is non-profit, making its organization a labour of love that hasn’t once been neglected in 80 years. Festival volunteers number into the hundreds by the time each year’s celebrations finish, but the bulk of the planning is done by a smaller board of directors. “It’s a great group of volunteers,” Dwight says. And although the festival officially lasts under a week, it’s a yearlong endeavour behind the scenes. “Once fall rolls around, we’re back at it again.”

The world has changed a lot in the 80 years since the Apple Blossom Festival was founded. And, of course, those changes have been felt in the Festival’s format (it’s doubtful Queen Annapolisa played much laser tag in 1933). Nevertheless, the Apple Blossom Festival’s purpose—to serve as a celebration and as an enhancement of family and community spirit in the Valley— has remained happily unaltered since the event began. Here’s hoping the Festival enjoys another 80 years, in full bloom. FLH This Page A few parade participants showed off their wheels.

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

PATIENT PERSPECTIVE:

Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) and Sclerotherapy How did you feel about your legs beforehand?

I was embarrassed for anyone to see my legs. You could see that my left calf was considerably swollen.

After I had the EVLT done, I was not embarrassed anymore.

At what age did you started having trouble with varicose veins?

I first noticed problems when I was 16.

What kind of things did it prevent you from doing?

I was still able to do everything, but I didn’t want to show my legs. I wouldn’t go to the beach. I was covered up at all times. I wore long capri pants instead of shorts and my skirts were always long.

My left leg always felt more heavy and swollen. It was not painful, but it constantly felt like there was extra

BEFORE

“I was able to return to normal activities the same day.”

Karen Dutcher after ELVT

AFTER

pressure. I work on my feet and stand for long periods of time, and now I no longer have that feeling of fullness or swelling at the end of the day. These procedures have changed my life, and I don’t feel self-consciousness anymore.

How did you find the procedure?

It was a bit more painful than I expected, but it only hurt during the needles used to freeze my leg. I had no pain afterwards. I immediately noticed my legs were not as swollen and the bulging veins were not protruding as much. There was some bruising, but that dissipated after a few days.

What helped you make your decision to have the procedure?

I had been on a waiting list for surgery in New Brunswick for almost two years.

I was tired of waiting, and I found out about Valley Medical Aesthetics and,

later, drove to the clinic. Valley Medical Aesthetics knew that I was coming from a distance and offered to book enough time that I could have the treatment done that day, which I did. If I had chosen the surgical route and vein stripping, I wouldn’t have been able to work out or do my regular activities for eight to 10 weeks.

It is my understanding that stripping is much more painful and there would have been more scarring. My mother had both of her legs treated surgically and she was laid up for weeks each time.

Is there anything you would like people to know about your experience?

I want to share my experience with other people who may be dealing with the same problems. If I had known this procedure was an option for me sooner, I would have had it done 10 years earlier. I have no regrets. FLH Dr. Dion Davidson, md, frcsc, facs

“

In September 2010, I began treatments with Dr. Dion Davidson at Valley Medical Aesthetics. Despite the travel of almost six hours from New Brunswick, my experience with the surgeon, staff and clinic has been exceptional. They took the extra time to make sure that I felt cared for and was informed.

My vein problems were quite extensive, and I required both the EVLT procedure and sclerotherapy treatments for both

66 Exhibition Street, Kentville | 902.678.2121 TF: 888.471.8346 | F: 902.678.2945 valleymedical@bellaliant.com | www.vmedical.ca

of my legs. I was able to have both of my legs treated at the same time, which was not an option with the surgery available in the hospital. I was able to return home the same day of the procedure and continue my normal activities immediately. I would highly recommend anyone with varicose veins go to Valley Medical Aesthetics for treatment.

—Karen Dutcher

”

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

70 YEARS AND STILL GROWING

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK PHOTOS MATT KOZERA

I

t’s hard to believe that it’s been 70 years since Bill and Margaret Wilson first opened the doors of Bill Wilson’s Drugs on Commercial Street in Berwick. The Wilsons focused on providing excellent customer service in a welcoming environment. Bill Wilson’s Drugs developed a reputation for its high standards of service and quickly became a gathering place within the community.

Upon Bill’s passing in January of 1963, his son Bill Jr. became the owner of the business. In 1974 the store’s name was changed to Wilson’s Drug Mart. The

178

FineLifestyles

HRM

store underwent a major expansion in 1984, and in 1988, it became known as Wilsons Pharmasave. Bill was extremely interested in the future role of pharmacy and health care—assuming a leadership role—and became instrumental in the formation of Pharmasave Atlantic.

In 1995, the business was purchased by the MacQuarrie family, who is dedicated to maintaining the same high standards of customer service. Today, the store offers a wide selection of products and services, including postal services, cosmetics, fashion accessories, Kodak photo printing, Western Union services

and more. The Gift Collection is a popular store feature offering the latest brands available such as Willow Tree, Abbott of England, Rousseau Silver, Ty and a large selection of Hallmark cards for any occasion.

A full time LPN is on staff to assist you with home health care needs and questions.

The home health care department includes a comprehensive collection of medical and rehabilitation equipment. A vast selection of homecare equipment is available for rent or purchase. Onsite blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol monitoring is available.

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

“I love being a part of Wilsons because customer wellbeing is a priority. We have a team of 10 pharmacists and technicians who are here seven days a week—including evenings—to answer any questions you may have about your health and medications. We love the chance to meet new customers and offer guidance wherever possible,” comments dispensary manager, Gill Whiston. She goes on to encourage everyone to drop by and get to know the pharmacists and the clinical services available. The new store offers a number of shopping services. Wait for your prescriptions in the relaxing fireside ambiance. Wilsons Pharmasave also offers the convenience of a drive-thru service as well as home prescription delivery service.

With a brand new building and a second store recently opened at 100 Station Lane in Kentville, Wilsons continues to grow and expand. “Our new facility is simply better: from the spacious parking lot, convenient entrance, wider aisles and expanded product lines—including a larger food section with sugar free lines—it really is everything you need in a pharmacy,” says Bruce Ward, 28-year Wilsons’ employee.

As with any business, growth must take place to keep it relevant to the needs of its clientele. Over the past seven decades, Wilsons Pharmasave has remained sensitive to those needs and continues to look for new ways to better serve their customers. “Wilsons has moved far beyond a simple drug store, where you purchase medications, to a full-service pharmacy. We are always looking to provide our customers the best possible shopping experience. In the great tradition of the Wilson family, we have listened to our customers, and with the suggestions of our staff, our new building will make the Wilsons shopping experience even better,” states Anna Page, 32-year employee. FLH Wilsons Pharmasave 213 Commercial St., Berwick 902.538.3185 www.wilsonspharmasave.com TOP–BOTTOM L–R Jessica Winfield (Kentville location), Kelli Elderkin, Denise Freeman (Berwick location), Marianne Brydon (Berwick location), Pat Stevenson, Kim Morton, Gill Whiston (Berwick location), Natalie Pierce, Jessica Winfield (Kentville location), Angela Kerfont, Lisa MacDonald, Taylor Blenus (Kentville location), Carol Dorey with customer (Berwick location)

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Owners Faron and Lisa Meisner

A LifeLong Commitment to Family, Community and Cars

by Matthew Stone Photos Matt Kozera

F

aron Meisner, the General Manager of Kings County Honda, is passionate about cars in general and Hondas in particular. In 1977, Faron became an early adopter of the Honda brand when he bought one of the first Accords in Nova Scotia. With his family’s support, Faron turned his passion for Hondas into a successful small business in the Annapolis Valley.

“I’ve been lucky to sell a product that I believe in,” Faron says. “Hondas really sell

180

FineLifestyles

HRM

themselves based on their reputation for being safe and reliable and for providing their owners with an excellent return on their investment. Instead of worrying about our product, we can concentrate on our clients’ buying experience.

We pride ourselves on being a singlefranchise dealership, which means that we focus solely on selling Hondas.”

personal touches that reflect the laidback lifestyle of the Annapolis Valley and Faron’s affinity for everything automotive. With a showroom that features a panoramic photograph of Scott’s Bay and a table that was custommade by the parts manager, it’s no wonder clients tend to circulate through the dealership at a leisurely pace.

The client-centred ethos is evident as soon as you walk into Kings County Honda. The dealership has many

Faron’s client-focused philosophy has been adopted by the entire staff at Kings County Honda. The sales team

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

understands that buying a vehicle is a major decision, so they try to alleviate any undue stress on their clients. It’s an attitude that has created a strong base of repeat buyers; a great deal of their business stems from clients who return for an upgrade. Danny Neima, who is one of the sales representatives at Kings County Honda, has worked at the dealership since it opened. “I’ve been working with the Meisners since 1994.

Their attention to personalized service has created a positive work environment that helped me develop a really loyal clientele. Today, I’m selling cars to the children of my first clients.”

Kings County Honda strives to build strong relationships between its staff and clientele where long-term commitments to their clients are prioritized over short-term gains. This attitude is extended to the entire community, as well. The dealership embraces its role as a community-based business by supporting local music festivals, sports teams, theatre groups, libraries, hospitals and food banks, amongst other charitable causes.

Kings County Honda is the local dealership that has helped shape life in the Annapolis Valley. Thirty-six years ago Faron Meisner was the second person in the area to own a Honda Accord. Since then, Faron and his team have introduced countless clients to the Honda brand. Kings County Honda has truly grown up with the community.

“Twenty years ago Honda gave a franchise to a young couple from New Germany,” said Lisa Meisner, Faron’s wife and business partner. “We’re proud to be the only authorized Honda dealer in the area and to have made our home in the Annapolis Valley.” FLH Kings County Honda 933 Park Street Kentville 902.679.0029 www.kingshonda.com

TOP–BOTTOM L–R Danny Neima, George Milligan, Web Ley, Lauren Meisner, Tony Dean; Mike Thomson, Tim Sewards DeaLeRshiP PhOTO Liana VandenHof-Rhodenizer

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Historic cHarm, country cooking and the Best Apple Pie, Anywhere

By Rebecca SchneideReit Photos Matt KozeRa

M

arjorie Stirling bought the Evangeline Inn & Motel in 1948, turning it into a spot for tourists and locals alike to rest, relax and enjoy a light meal. 65 years later, Marjorie’s niece Sheila McKay owns the inn, motel and adjacent café, but her approach remains inspired by that earlier era: it’s about simplicity, satisfaction and comfort.

Over the years, the Evangeline’s accommodations have been expanded and renovated to better serve guests, but Sheila’s respect for the property’s heritage means the old-fashioned charm has been maintained. “We’ve upgraded,” Sheila explains, “but kept the character of the place.” The Inn was erected in 1858, and it served as the childhood home of Sir Robert Borden (Prime Minister from 1911-1920). In order to reflect that history, its rooms “have been renovated, updated, but decorated in a period style” with poster beds and antique furniture.

The motel and café (both added in the 1950s) have likewise been modernized for comfort, but the café’s checkered

182

FineLifestyles

HRM

floor and retro bar stools pay homage to its past.

Even if you’ve never stayed at the inn or motel, you may have eaten at the café, which has earned a following in its own right. It’s properly known as the Evangeline Inn & Motel Café, but regulars have shortened that name. “Most of the locals know it as Stirling’s,” says Sheila.

Whatever you call it, the eatery’s quaint décor and ample parking and seating, including a spacious patio, help draw in patrons; so does the expertise of its friendly staff, some of whom have been at the Evangeline for 25 years or more.

foods.” Why not? “That’s how my aunt did it,” Sheila says. “That’s just how it always was.”

Don’t leave without digging into dessert.

The current dessert chef, the daughter of the café’s original 1950s baker, whips up five or more tempting dishes daily. “Mostly pie, but we also do fruit crisp,” says Sheila. Fillings and flavours vary seasonally, but one classic never disappears: “We always have apple on the menu.” It doesn’t get much better than Valley apples, and, Sheila

Then, of course, there’s the food. The café has “a very simple menu,” says Sheila, but that’s part of the appeal. “Most of it’s home cooking. We’re known for our burgers, our fish chowder and scones . . . people rave about the hamburgers.”

The kitchen uses local beef and produce, cooking up country-style meals that are hearty without being heavy or greasy.

“It’s not fast food. Everything is made to order,” says Sheila. “We have no fried

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

LEFT L–R Sheila and Todd McKay, owners

notes, “All of the fruit is provided by the Stirling family. They’re well-known apple farmers.”

Sheila and her staff also keep tabs on modern dietary concerns. They’ve recently begun offering gluten-free options, including hamburgers, sandwiches, brownies and tortes, in addition to vegetarian fare such as quesadillas, wraps and salads. And since the café itself is seasonal (open May to October) there’s no question that those salads contain fresh, crisp summer veggies.

Guests at the Evangeline Inn receive a classic country inn experience, culminating in a lavish breakfast at the café, and both inn and motel guests have access to free parking, free Wi-Fi and an indoor heated pool. But however you experience the Evangeline Inn, Motel and Café – a week-long stay or a quick bite of lunch – no one can match this spot for charm and hospitality. They’ve been doing things this way for a long time. FLH

Evangeline Inn, Motel and Café 11668 Hwy 1, Grand Pré 1.888.542.2703 eimi@eastlink.ca www.evangeline.ns.ca |

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

ABOVE Ideal Protein Coach, Michelle May with her photo taken 6 months and 60 lbs ago

A Light Touch

A DrAmAtic Difference

By Rebecca SchneideReit Photos Seann GeRvaSon

C

arrie Yeo has a theory: “Your ability to function in life comes from your self-confidence.”

She should know. Carrie is the owner of Light Touch Laser Inc., and she and her team make their living helping clients build self-confidence by guiding them to their weight loss goals and eliminating the excess hair that plagues them. “People come in,” Carrie smiles, “and they feel better when they leave.”

184

FineLifestyles

HRM

The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method

on a great deal of weight,” she recalls, “and was feeling pretty unhappy about it.”

Weight management can be a constant struggle, and uncontrolled weight could burden anyone’s health and morale.

Even the owner of one of Nova Scotia’s leading laser studios can suffer bouts of insecurity; for instance, earlier this year, when Carrie discovered that winter was wreaking havoc on her figure. “I had put

Then, a chance encounter led Carrie to the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method, and, in 10 weeks, she’d lost 30 pounds.

“Ten weeks, at 40 years old, to be at my goal weight, is amazing,” she says. Carrie decided to share her good fortune. Since January, she’s offered the Ideal Protein program from the Light Touch Laser clinic. In that short time, she’s seen Ideal

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

ABOVE Carrie Yeo, owner Light Touch Laser Inc.

Protein change the lives of her family, friends and clients.

The program consists of a combination of a pre-determined diet and one-onone coaching from Light Touch’s experts.

The dramatic results come courtesy of a minimal-exercise, low-carbohydrate ketogenic approach. Women can expect to lose about three pounds per week through Ideal Protein; men about five.

Of course, anyone who’s shed poundage only to regain it knows losing weight is only half the battle— the trickier half is not finding it again. That’s why Ideal Protein devotes a substantial portion of its program to stabilizing followers at their desired weight and preparing them for long-term maintenance. “Basically, the plan is to get off the program,” says Carrie—for good.

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Laser Hair Removal In addition, Light Touch Laser continues to offer laser hair removal via its LightSheer Duet, one of the fastest, most comfortable lasers on the market. The Duet’s suction technology means that there’s no need to apply gel to the skin during treatment, and the diode’s slight vacuum effect means many customers don’t need to bother with an anaesthetic cream, either. The process is a fast, simple and mess-free path to gleamingly bare skin.

Although a summer suntan can impede laser treatments (the laser targets colour, after all) there are certain areas most clients are able to treat anytime. “Most underarms are going to be protected, unless you’re playing a lot of volleyball,” Carrie jokes. Furthermore, she adds, “If

[clients] have an area of hair they really don’t like … they’re usually covering it anyway,” so it’s possible to continue to treat troublesome areas throughout the summer months.

Many people try to plan the perfect summer, but a perfect summer isn’t about where you go or what you do. It’s about who you are. If you’re comfortable in your skin, you’ll get the most out of whatever life brings, from a tropical holiday to a lunch break in the park. And if you’re ill-at-ease with yourself, no five star resort will make that disappear. But Light Touch Laser will. FLH Light Touch Laser 50 A Webster Street Kentville 902.678.2829 www.lighttouch.ca |

FineLifestyles

HRM

185

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Knitting FOR A

CAUSE

BY LINDSEY HUNNEWELL PHOTOS GASPEREAU VALLEY FIBRES

ucked amidst the vineyards, you’ll find Gaspereau Valley Fibres and their team of eight Canadian champions who are attempting to hold onto their title for another year. Although not your typical competitors, you could say they’ve put in years of training for this annual competition. On June 1, Sheep Thrills will come together to see if they can remain the national leaders in the International Back to Back Wool Challenge, which will see them shear a sheep, spin the wool and knit a sweater within one day.

“It’s a really fun event,” says Manda Mansfield, one of the organizers for the challenge. “It’s such a tactile thing to see the spinners take the raw fleece up off the floor and watch it as it is transformed into a sweater.”

The wool competition dates back to 1811 Berkshire, England, where a wager was made to take the wool from a sheep’s back and create a coat from it within one day. In front of a crowd of roughly 5,000, the coat was completed in 13 hours.

In 1992, the competition had a revival after a young spinner in Scotland developed Thyroid cancer. Richard Snow started the International Back to Back Wool Challenge as a cancer fundraiser, and it has grown ever since. Now, there are teams

186

FineLifestyles

Spinning demos from FibrEnsemble

HRM

competing from across the world to see who is the fastest at shearing, spinning and knitting a sweater to the exact pattern.

For long-time knitter Dale Gruchy, competing has become a June tradition. “The whole sense of camaraderie is just amazing,” she says. Gruchy has been a member of the team for five years and says that the whole process is fun and exhilarating: “They start spinning, and we need some wool to cast on with, so we’re sitting there like little vultures just waiting for about 100 metres to start.”

Gruchy, who has been a knitter for almost 30 years, says that she loves the energy and sense of community that they share.

“We come together for a short period of time, but to me, it’s a very important time because … some people have forgotten this art form,” says Gruchy. Mansfield agrees and adds, “You can see people’s hands almost starting to twitch because so many of us … aren’t necessarily doing anything crafty anymore. People have that urge in them, but they don’t realize it until they see someone else doing it.”

The farm wool shop has played host to the fundraiser for roughly eight years, and it keeps getting larger. Along with seeing the team in action, there will be sheep shearing, felting and spinning

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

demonstrations, gift draws, a lamb barbecue and this year they are introducing a market for local artisans and vendors to sell their fleeces and fibre products.

All of the funds raised from the event go to support Carey Me, an initiative that helps families afford in-home palliative care in the Annapolis Valley region.

Started by Marilynn Carey as a tribute to her husband Bill, the funds help those who want to spend their last days in their own home. It’s a cause that Sheep Thrills hold dear to their hearts. In 2009, one of their team members, Jali Giroux, lost her battle with cancer.

“For the knitting community and the community around Sheep Thrills, there’s a very personal connection to the competition because you can’t help doing it without thinking of her because she was a beautiful spinner and a beautiful knitter,” says Mansfield. Giroux had helped with palliative care for many years before her illness, and now, the team continues to fund-raise for it in her absence. Gruchy says the Back to Back Wool challenge is a good opportunity to bring awareness to both communities: “It’s a way to highlight knitting, but it is also a way to showcase local charities.”

Mansfield says that ultimately the competition is a fun way to connect with the community and to bring awareness to the fibre industry. “We always tell people, even if you don’t knit, it’s a really enjoyable place to just come and hang out because it’s very tactile; whether you’re a man or woman, there’s something for everyone.” FLH

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

TOP LEFT Brenda Gilmour; TOP RIGHT Sarah Nettleton starts the shearing; SECOND ROW L–R Dealia Burge, Liz Miller and Dale Gruchy; L–R Claudia Elssner and Liz Miller; TEAM PHOTO BACK ROW L–R Manda Mansfield, Marilyn Rand, Claudia Elssner, Brenda Gilmour, Dale Gruchy, Leah Deveau, Tina Morse; FRONT ROW L–R Meg Brown, Liz Miller, Melinda Norris and Julie Cochrane;

FineLifestyles

HRM

187

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Bring Your Appetite to the Best Family Restaurant in the Valley

BY Trina annand photos MaTT Kozera

F

or more than 30 years, Randy Sanford has been a fixture of the Berwick community; customer service runs in his blood. When Randy decided to retire, it was short lived before the entrepreneur moved on to his next adventure. Randy decided to buy the Driftwood Restaurant with his daughter, Katelin, putting her culinary training to good use. The Driftwood has been a local landmark since 1980, when it was mainly a fish and chip takeout stand.

Under the guidance of its owners, the Driftwood has blossomed into a thriving business, going from a handful of seats to, most recently, a restaurant that can serve as many as 170 people.

188

FineLifestyles

HRM

Now, a year after moving to their new location in the old fire hall, Driftwood is welcoming new customers to their already loyal following. Staying true to its roots, Driftwood still offers takeout and old favourites, but now has an expanded menu, courtesy of manager Katelin Sanford. “The reason people keep coming back to the Driftwood is that we’re not fancy, we just offer great home-cooked meals,” remarks Katelin.

The modern and friendly space is the perfect complement to Katelin’s food.

The guiding motto at Driftwood is great food, great service, large portions and a fair price. All of the staff at the Driftwood

work hard to ensure the customers’ experiences are welcoming and friendly every time. As much of the menu as possible is cooked from scratch, including their delectable meatloaf, lasagna and, of course, the famous seafood chowder. A key to Driftwood’s success is consistency: Randy and Katelin want every meal you have at the restaurant to be as high quality as the last. The restaurant’s menu is constantly evolving to better suit its customers, offering heart-healthy, glutenfree and senior-sized options. There is something for everyone at Driftwood.

Randy develops several options based on customer requests like the Half and Half plate, “Customers love our scallops and

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

our clams, so we came up with a third choice of half clams and half scallops. We just want people to leave here happy,” remarks Randy.

There have been a few changes to the restaurant because of its unique new location; one is that Driftwood now has a liquor license. Guests can now enjoy a beer or a glass of local wine with their meal. The Driftwood’s newly renovated location gives a nod to its fire hall past with signature red walls and a firehouse crest proudly displayed on the wall.

Another unique feature of the new space is the event room, which can hold up to 60 people. It is the perfect place for parties, conferences or tour bus visits. The room is fully equipped with a sound system, projector and massive 220 inch screen perfect for slideshows and watching the big game. “Before, it was difficult to take on tour buses; we didn’t want to inconvenience our regular customers. Now, in the new space, there is room for everyone,” says Randy.

The key ingredient to the Driftwood is love; both Randy and Katelin are dedicated to the Driftwood and its customers. “It’s every father’s dream to work with their kids and help them create something they can carry on,” remarks Randy. Next time you are out in the valley, make a special stop at the Driftwood Restaurant and become part of the family. FLH The Driftwood Restaurant 229 Commercial Street Berwick 902.538.8393 www.driftwoodrestaurant.ca

Middle right Randy Sanford, owner with customers bottoM right l–r Katelin Sanford, Kyla Stanick, Meaghan Pike, Ally Zinch and Brianna Northcutt.

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

TOP L–R Mike Craig, Debra Windle-Smith, Bev Thorburn, Duane Simmons MIDDLE L–R Laura Fitzharris, Sharon Ricketts, Donna Conrad BOTTOM Amy MacDow

Make the annapolis Valley your Destination

By Matthew Stone photos triSh robicheau

D

onna Conrad has been in real estate for more than 20 years, all of it spent servicing the Annapolis Valley. Along the way she has become a premier Realtor® for the area, racking up some impressive achievements. She has consistently won the highest sales award, which is a testament to her passion for helping people find their perfect fit for a home.

But Donna hasn’t just attained success for her innovative sales and marketing approaches; it also extends to a basic philosophy that hasn’t wavered in her more than two decades in the business.

“I feel really privileged to work in an industry that I sincerely enjoy,” Donna says. “This business has taught me some very real things about life and people.

Someone’s life can change very quickly.

If I can help make their situation easier and their transaction stress-free, then I think it’s been a successful day.”

Donna knows that being a Realtor is more than just helping people buy or sell a home. It’s about putting families first,

190

FineLifestyles

HRM

and caring for the community she serves.

It’s a community she has lived in all her life, and she’s still proud to call it home.

That’s why she feels it’s so important to give back, and it’s led her to work in fundraising and community awareness.

RE/MAX supports the IWK and breast cancer research; they make a donation with every sale. In the past, they have also hosted yard sales for the Cure in Kentville in Berwick, which gives people in the community the opportunity to show their support. Working with some local groups of youth, including Berwick Gala Days for the past 10 years, has been fun. Their office also joins together to support animal abuse prevention and rescue, including the SPCA. It’s a positive and fun way to spend some free time.

What makes the Annapolis Valley so attractive to homebuyers is its location, quality of services and lifestyle. Located just a short commute from Halifax, some areas are just 35 minutes away from the city. The area boasts an excellent lifestyle, with many recreational facilities,

great schools and the tranquility that comes with being out of the big city.

With a wonderful cultural aspect that includes vineyards, restaurants and art attractions, the valley has grown in cultural opportunities and tourist attractions; this is great for the local economy, as well.

Donna has enjoyed working with various new construction developments, including two subdivisions in Port Williams. Currently, the brand new Canaan Heights residential development is centrally located in Kentville and offers excellent resell value. Donna is pleased to offer any potential clients access to these exciting opportunities, which can also now be viewed on her website at donnaannapolisvalley.com.

Donna’s office consists of administrative staff, independent agents and her marketing and sales group. Donna enjoys working one-on-one with her clients.

“I really enjoy feeling I have helped someone. I love introducing people to the valley,” Donna says. This is especially

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

important for families, who might need to relocate quickly, and over the years, Donna has helped countless RCMP and military families find new homes.

Seniors too, who may decide that it is time to change to a more manageable living situation, are frequent clients of Donna’s. She has studied real estate training to help seniors as a seniors’ real estate specialist.

Whatever your real estate needs, you can be assured that Donna Conrad is a good bet. Her knowledge of the Annapolis valley ensures she can meet the needs of her clients, no matter what the scenario may be. Flexible, hardworking, and above all, caring: Donna is always ready to help. FLH

"I met Donna almost 10 years ago when, as a medical resident, I was looking to buy a home in the Valley. Donna and her team were patient, knowledgable and accessible, but most of all professional. I was so impressed by her that I have bought and sold many residential and commercial properties under her guidance. I highly recommend Donna and thank her for her many years of assistance!"

—Dr. Charles Hamm, MD FRCSC

Donna Conrad & Team RE/MAX Advantage 17A Webster Court Kentville 902.679.0700 donna@donnaconradteam.com www.donnaannapolisvalley.com TOP Donna Conrad LEFT L–R Bev Thorburn, Sharon Ricketts, Donna Conrad, Laura Fitzharris

FineLifestyles

HRM

191

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

A TAsTe of Home photos Matt Kozera

A

ll-day breakfasts, endless cups of coffee, old-fashioned milkshakes and home-style meals: with nearly 25 years in the business, the New Minas Big Stop Restaurant knows what people like, and they dish it up quickly and in generous portions. It’s a simple approach that keeps eager diners coming through the doors. “We get everyone, from families with young children to university students to seniors,” says operator Michele Ryan, whose family has run the restaurant since it opened in 1988. Once people eat here for the first time, there’s a good chance that they’ll be back regularly. “We have people who eat here daily, and most certainly, a loyal customer base,” she adds.

the liver and onions or a roast turkey dinner served with gravies made right from the drippings in the restaurant’s immaculate kitchen. Health-conscious diners may prefer the low-calorie salads and wraps, while children and seniors can order from separate menu sections, offering smaller portions for more modest appetites. Be sure not to miss the desserts prepared by the restaurant’s in-house baker. “She makes everything from scratch,” says Michele, “She’s a dedicated baker and very old-school.”

With homemade pastry crusts and mile-high meringues, the restaurant’s many pies are popular; in particular, the lemon meringue and coconut cream are customer favourites.

Part of the restaurant’s appeal is that it really does offer something for everyone.

Those looking for a taste of the Atlantic can choose from the menu’s popular fish and chips or pan fried haddock. For those more traditional at heart, they may enjoy

The comfortable, family-like atmosphere is further enriched by its warm and friendly service. “Many people enjoy the camaraderie with the staff as much as they do the meal,” says Michele. In part, this unique experience can be attributed

192

FineLifestyles

HRM

to the fact that many of the servers have been with the restaurant for a decade or even closer to two. As a point of interest, each server’s name tag proudly bears the year that their employment commenced—a real conversation starter with some customers. However, don’t be mistaken: speed and efficiency of service are still key requirements at this busy restaurant.

Not only is there something for everyone, there’s room for everyone, too. The Big Stop Restaurant seats 124 and is wheelchair accessible. It is a popular destination for sports teams, seniors groups and bus tours because there is enough space for all to enjoy a great meal, and there’s plenty of parking as well.

Situated just off of exit 12 on Highway 101 (roughly one hour from Halifax), the New Minas Big Stop will help to see that you are fully prepared to be on your way. Choose from a variety of snacks,

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

souvenirs and giftware in the Circle K convenience store. Fuel up with gasoline or fill up on propane. Connect to the wireless internet or if necessary access funds by using the on-site ATM. While it’s definitely a prime spot to stop for hungry travellers, you don’t necessarily need to be going anywhere in particular to have a delicious meal at the Big Stop Restaurant. Heaping helpings of great food served by friendly and efficient staff—that’s a destination in and of itself. FLH

New Minas Big Stop / A&D Services Ltd. 5477 Prospect Rd. New Minas 902.681.0224 TOP PHOTO L–R Pat, Marilyn, Tina, Lyn

FineLifestyles

HRM

193

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

above L–R Cora Mae and Doug Morse

From sawdust and shavings

to sunFlowers and signs By: Trina annand Photos MaTT Kozera

F

or more than 20 years, Doug and Cora Mae Morse have been delighting customers with their handmade furniture and custom handcarved signs in the heart of Grand Pré in the Annapolis Valley. After her sons went to university, Cora Mae searched for an outlet for her creativity; thus, Flora

by Cora was born. What had originally been a hobby for Doug, quickly evolved into a bustling carving and woodworking business. Together the duo has made and

194

FineLifestyles

HRM

sold well over 1,000 unique Adirondack chairs and even shipped them far and near for customers looking to add that special something to their yards or patios.

The custom designed chairs started with only four designs and have blossomed into 16 different patterns ranging from the always popular floral motifs to seaside themes and corporate logos.

“They are happy flowers, I often call my

furniture happy furniture,” remarks Cora Mae. Made of Western Red Cedar and assembled with stainless steel screws, then hand painted with acrylic paint, the furniture is both durable and beautiful.

It is also uniquely designed to break down into eight pieces for easy shipping, which is a must when sending items locally and internationally. Doug creates all the designs and patterns, assembles and packs, while Cora Mae carries out the painting.

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

LeFT Planter Carving of Elm Tree Project above Ceremonial Mace, Acadia University

Doug’s custom carving work knows no bounds. He has a steady sign making business, but also creates furniture, can reproduce parts for antique furniture and even worked on a nine-foot by sevenfoot fiberglass model of a Mola Mola Sunfish for the Royal Ontario Museum.

What sets Doug apart is his attention to detail and versatility. When carving ceremonial maces for Acadia and Ryerson universities, Doug made tools to do the very small detail work.

“There are a lot of sign making businesses out there. The difference with mine is I do it all by hand. I do things the traditional way,” says Doug.

An experienced sign maker, Doug works with pine, 23 karat gold leaf, oil paints, marine epoxies and metal.

His signs are meant to stand the test of time and the elements. From designing to carving and installation,

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Doug does it all, helping his clients translate their ideas into reality.

The key to keeping any business fresh is versatility and innovation. Flora by Cora now makes an entire outdoor furniture line based on their popular Adirondack chairs, including decorative items like garden gates and screen doors. “Every couple of years I come out with a new flower design or motif. Pansies come in so many colours, I have a client in Ontario that calls to see what the new one is,” says Cora Mae. It seems the painter has found her calling creating one-of-a-kind lawn art to share with the world.

Doug will be marking an important milestone on July 1 as Grand Pré National Historic Site unveils the completed Elm Tree Sculpture, a collaborative carving

project between Acadian, First Nation and Planter communities. As a descendant of the Planters, Doug was chosen to create a piece for that section of the sculpture. “I will never get bored here; you never know what project is going to walk through the door. I have done family crests, signs, sculptures and everything in between,” chuckles Doug.

Whether your desire is for one-of-akind, creative furniture or a custom sign, the choice is clear. Come visit Cora and Doug; they can help you create almost anything your heart desires. FLH

Flora by Cora 902.542.2924 2088 Grand Pré Road Grand Pré doug.morse@ns.sympatico.ca www.florabycora.com

FineLifestyles

HRM

195

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Fire it Up

By Tobie HainsTock photos MaTT kozera

T

‘

is the season for outdoor living.

In the previous Holland Home Leisure publication, quality outdoor furniture was highlighted, and we saved the most elegant part of your outdoor living experience for now: how to add fire!

Located in New Minas, Holland Home Leisure carries a wide selection of unique fire tables that you may have noticed at a friend’s place or have heard someone talking about. “A few of the features that make these fire tables so great is that they run on propane or natural gas; they turn on and off as simply as a new barbeque does; and they can be connected to an existing gas line for the

196

FineLifestyles

HRM

ultimate in convenience,” remarks Liana vandenHof-Rhodenizer, manager of the hot tub and outdoor furniture divisions.

Outdoor entertaining has never felt or looked this good. Whether you are planning to extend your patio season with the warmth and ambience of a campfire or you’re simply looking for a stunning centerpiece for your outdoor entertaining, there is nothing that will compare to a fire table.

“O.W. Lee has eight beautiful hand-crafted, Italian porcelain tops to choose from and a cast aluminum collection with a number of options.” Round, square or rectangular, from three feet to just under five feet, there are over 2,500 different combinations,

ensuring that every customer has a unique and personalized fire table.

Next up is cooking with fire, where three product families make up the entire cooking division. One uses wood, one coal and one pellets. This is not your normal barbeque selection: “This year we added two new products to compliment the Big Green Egg (charcoal)”, notes sales associate Craig McNutt. “The first addition is our wood-fired pizza ovens.

Each oven weighs over 600 pounds and provides an authentic pizza oven cooking experience,” says McNutt. These ovens are gorgeous to the eye and are a great example of why people drive to the

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Annapolis Valley to visit Holland Home Leisure; the store is simply one of a kind in Atlantic Canada.

“We are also excited to have added the Black Olive to our cooking line this year,” says McNutt. At first glance, it appears to be very similar to the charcoal-based Big Green Egg, but the outside is black and it uses wood pellets for fuel. “Oh, these are not at all the same,” states McNutt. “The Black Olive is a universal grill that can smoke your food for up to 40 hours without refilling, yet it can heat up at a rate of 100 degrees per minute to sear a steak.” Turning the Olive on and off is done with the twist of a knob.

Pellets are poured into and stored in the hopper, and an electrical supply is required for the internal motor which moves the pellets from the hopper to the flame.

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Products like these are what have made Holland Home Leisure a treasure in the valley, and the service level and friendly staff behind the 32-year-old company is what keeps their customers coming back.

For all your backyard living and products you may not have realized were available, visit Holland Home Leisure, located just off exit 12 on Highway 101. FLH Holland Home Leisure 8794 Commercial Street New Minas 902.681.3030 www.hollandhomeleisure.com

top right Liana vandenHof-Rhodenizer, manager of the hot tub and outdoor furniture divisions Middle right Craig McNutt, sales associate

Varicose Veins and Venous Disease (A guide for patients)

As with any medical problem, we start with getting a history, asking questions about how venous disease affects the patient and about their health in general. Some are surprised at how other health issues can be related to their venous disease. A physical examination then focuses mostly on the cardiovascular system.

Next, in most cases, we need to find out whether particular veins are refluxing, allowing venous blood to pool backward down the legs instead of conducting it up toward the heart, the way it’s supposed to go. Some veins that are commonly diseased this way and give rise to elevated venous pressure and varicosities are great saphenous and small saphenous veins.

To check their function, we perform specialized ultrasound imaging in a standing position.

Dr. Dion Davidson BSC, MD, FRCSC, FACS Vascular and General Surgery, Critical Care Valley Medical Aesthetics Inc. 66 Exhibition St. Kentville, NS 902.678.2121 Toll Free: 888.471.8346 Fax: 902.678.2945 valleymedical@bellaliant.com vmedical.ca

L

ast time, I talked about what venous disease is and how varicose veins and related issues are problems for so many people. Next up: investigations and treatment options.

198

FineLifestyles

HRM

With all of this information in hand, we can then talk about general ways to manage venous disease and what further specific procedure options are available for each individual.

grandmother wearing. Both our own experience with hundreds of patients and published medical studies confirm that compression stockings are very effective in diminishing symptoms, probably lessen the disease overall and are especially important to wear after venous procedures. Modern stockings are designed to be individually fitted and come in many comfortable materials and colours. Once given a fair try (and assuming proper fit of a quality product), the vast majority of patients feel better wearing them.

Treatment measures significantly alleviate symptoms, slow the disease process and improve appearance.

For example, once we’ve taken some basic steps, often including a procedure or two, the vast majority of patients will feel better overall, varicose veins will be significantly diminished and the risk of venous ulcers or ulcer recurrence in the future will be lessened. However, I explain to patients that there is usually no “cure” for venous disease.

As a chronic condition, it’s important for patients to keep the health of the veins of their legs in mind for their entire life.

Other life long interventions helpful in venous disease include regular leg exercise (muscle contractions get venous blood moving upwards) and elevating the legs as often as feasible (taking breaks and sitting with your legs up diminishes the pressure). There is scientific evidence that supplements such as horse chestnut seed extract can improve vein function and symptoms.

Weight loss may be helpful for some.

Finally, it wouldn’t be an article written by a doctor if it didn’t mention quitting smoking. You guessed it: along with all of its other terrible consequences, the toxins in cigarette smoke weaken vein walls and worsen the disease.

The first—and possibly most important—measure is compression, usually in the form of compression stockings. Many are skeptical about compression stockings and have visions of heavy, ugly and uncomfortable pantyhose they remember their

So far, I’ve reviewed general and life long recommendations that apply to nearly everyone, whether we also undertake procedures or not. Next is consideration of surgeries and minimally invasive procedures that further help patients with venous disease. FLH

SPECIAL FEATURE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

Have the best ride of your life with Valley Yamaha Suzuki.

Atlantic Canada's oldest Yamaha dealer is under new ownership and now specializes in both Yamaha and Suzuki sales. Qualified and trained technicians make sure your bike, ATV and snowmobile are at peak performance for outdoor fun with unsurpassed customer service. We service all makes and models with competitive rates.

Striving to make power sports the best investment you can make with your free time, Valley Yamaha Suzuki now provides a full selection of riding gear, including helmets from all the top brands. Visit the showroom to make your dreams a reality. kirk long, owner

1199 PArkWAY DriVe, PorT WilliAmS

902.542.7678 | www.valleyyamaha-suzuki.com |

HRM AND AREA

RETAIL MARKETPLACE

DIRECTORY

Turn Heads “180˚”

Decorate Yourself at Bedazzled

180˚ Moda Incorporated 5571 Cunard Street, Halifax | 902.482.0505 info@180moda.com | www.180moda.com

Bedazzled Ornaments 1475 Lower Water Street (Bishop’s Landing), Halifax bedazzledhfx_ornaments@bellaliant.com | 902.429.3434 |

Old School Old SchoolBarbering Barberingwith witha aModern Modern Flair Flair

Sharing Our Passion For Glass

Carlo’s Barber Shop 1595 Bedford Sunnyside Mall, Highway Bedford| Sunnyside | 902.835.2359 Mall, Bedford | 902.835.2359 www.carlosbarbershop.ca

Cranberry Stained Glass Studio & Supply 102 Chain Lake Drive, Vantage Point 1A, Halifax | 902.876.5167 www.cranberrystainedglass.com | | |

Your Only Full Service Bridal Studio in HRM

Frida: Where Jewellery Becomes Art

Always and Forever Bridal 145 Main Street, Dartmouth | 902.462.5450 www.always-and-forever.ca | info@always-and-forever.ca

Frida The Piazza at Bishop’s Landing | 1477 Lower Water Street, Halifax 902.492.2947 | www.frida.ca

Custom-made suits, shirts, jeans, sport coats, outerwear, evening, prom, wedding and mother-of-the-bride and groom dresses.

Exceptional quality and price.

Enjoy a straight-razor shave and a superb haircut while we take care of all your grooming needs with a smile.

Get an unforgettable shopping experience with distinguished style.

Always and Forever has a unique selection of gorgeous dresses, and all of their tuxedos are on-site.

200

FineLifestyles

HRM

For jewellery and accessories you can’t find everywhere, visit Bedazzled. Sparkling and unique creations from local and international designers. One-of-a-kind accessories at a price you can afford.

Specializing in custom work and restoration. Full service studio, including supplies and classes. Drop into Cranberry for a tour.

An exclusive jewellery destination. Custom-made fine jewellery collections hewn in gold, silver and platinum accented with beautiful gemstones, pearls and diamonds. Bespoke wedding and engagement rings.

Functional Architectural Metalworks

We Fry Our Best

Avon River Metalworks 616 Sangster Bridge Road, Falmouth | 902.790.2218 avonrivermetalworks.weebly.com |

Fries & Co. 2603 Connolly Street, Halifax | 902.455.5250 www.friesnco.com |

Why Wouldn’t You?

Beyond Beauty

Light Touch Laser 50 A Webster Street, Kentville | 902.678.2829 lighttouch@ns.aliantzinc.ca | www.lighttouch.ca |

Valley Medical Aesthetics Inc. 66 Exhibition Street, Lower Level, Kentville | 902.678.2121 TF 888.471.8346 | vmedical.ca |

Using a variety of metals including aluminum, steel and copper, Avon River Metalworks incorporates found, discarded and recycled materials into its nature-inspired pieces.

The benefits of laser are proven. When you see what it does for the look and feel of your skin, you’ll wish you had done it sooner.

|

At Fries & Co. our friendly staff, cozy seating, and mouth watering fish and chips, clams and chips, homemade chowder, and much more awaits you.

We offer full service for all your vascular (varicose vein) needs from sclerotherapy injections (MSI and cosmetic), endo venous laser therapy (EVLT), vein stripping or compression stockings.

Defining Beauty

Lowest Prices Guaranteed

Academy of Cosmetology 363 Windmill Road, Dartmouth | 902.469.7788 www.academyofcosmetology.com | |

Supplement King Three Halifax locations | 902.877.5464 www.supplementking.ca | |

We have been achieving excellence for 35 years and offer the highest standard of education in the industry. Visit us for all your esthetic and cosmetology services at reduced rates.

Focusing on personalized service and unbeatable prices, Supplement King provides a variety of products to help you build muscle mass, lose body fat or maintain an active lifestyle.

FineLifestyles

HRM

201

HRM AND AREA

RETAIL MARKETPLACE

DIRECTORY

Lending a Helping Hand

Renü Yourself

The Bourget Foundation www.bourgetfoundation.org

Renu Cosmetic + Reconstructive Surgery 5943 Spring Garden Road, Halifax | 902.492.1586 www.feelrenud.ca | reception@feelrenud.ca | |

WiseHeart

Mudwraps to Manicures Est. 1998

Heart of the Tree Reiki and CranioSacral Therapy 2045 Harvard St. Halifax | 902.455.0175 www.heartofthetree.ca

Mudwraps to Manicures 1083 Bedford Highway | 902.835.7375 www.mudwrapstomanicures.com |

A Youthful Smile is a Healthy Choice

Get Your Glow On

Dr. Peter Zwicker Dental Services Inc. Suite 107–40 Alderney Dr., Dartmouth | 902.464.4642 www.zwickerdental.com |

Siesta Tan 936 Bedford highway, Unit 5 902.832.2828

Going on six years, Bourget Foundation offers free medical services and supplies to projects in Africa and Brazil. To get involved, check out our blog.

A personal, highly customized program designed to meet you where you are and get you to where you want to be. Discover your inner truth and live with delight.

We are a full service office, offering cosmetic, preventative, endodontics, implant technologies and full smile makeovers.

202

FineLifestyles

HRM

Offering cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, renü provides a complete range of procedures by qualified medical staff that put your total body care first.

A fabulous space overlooking the lovely Bedford Waterfront.

3,300 square feet of all types of spa services, a lovely boutique of accessories and Sincerely Shoes.

Come for your even, golden tan in a reliable, relaxing environment.

Brand new stand-up and classic sunbeds available. Convenient hours and walk-ins welcome.

Soothe and Balance Your Body

A Fitness Experience

Total Kneads 5555 Sullivan Street, Halifax | 902.422.0254 totalkneads@totalkneads.ca | www.totalkneads.ca |

Slim Gyms Fitness 6960 Mumford Rd, Mumford Professional Centre | 902.404.7546 slimgyms@eastlink.ca | www.slimgyms.ca |

At Total Kneads, we care about you and your health. Come visit our friendly and experienced staff for all your massage, reflexology, colon hydrotherapy, and acupuncture needs.

|

A co-ed fitness facility with free personal training. Workouts are tailored to individuals needs to take the guesswork out of getting healthy. Safe, effective and time efficient workouts.

You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile

Trust Us With Your Special Day

Dr. Ryan Thomas—Smile Innovations Suite 104–3301 HWY 2, Fall River | 902.5.SMILES (576.4537) www.smileinnovations.ca

Dream Day Wedding & Hairstyling Services 445 Old Sackville Road, Lower Sackville | 902.499.7643 www.dreamdayservices.ca | |

Sit Back and Relax

Food for a Simpler Life

Exclusive one-on-one dentistry with emphasis on cosmetics, implants and full mouth rehabilitation. Metal-free, holistic approach to dentistry using state-of-the-art equipment. No charge consultations, call today.

When planning a wedding, remember to trust a professional who is dedicated to creating your dream day. We offer wedding planning, rentals and hairstyling services conveniently under one roof.

Let Metro Hospitality Services' experienced staff do all the work for your next event. Metro provides a full range of services including event planners, photographers, wait staff and bartenders.

We have a great selection of delicious, mouth-watering dishes to tempt every palate. Assemble your meals at the store, or have us prepare the meals for you.

Metro Hospitality Services 902.405.1887 | info@metrohospitalityservices.ca www.metrohospitalityservices.ca |

What’s for Supper?

1277 Hollis Street | 902.876.2936 www.whatsforsupper.ca | contact@whatsforsupper.ca FineLifestyles

HRM

203

HRM AND AREA

RETAIL MARKETPLACE

DIRECTORY

Tasty Morsels Try Edible Morsels

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Edible Morsels 29 Everette Street, Dartmouth | 902.222.6085 cromwellte@yahoo.ca | www.ediblemorsels.ca |

Sweetheart’s Candy Buffet Services 902.476.9238 sweetheartcandyns@gmail.com |

Spice It Up

Live Well, Make Wine

Caribbean Twist 3081 Gottingen Street, Halifax | 902.404.3855 info@caribbeantwist.ca | www.caribbeantwist.ca

Wine Kitz Halifax 111–287 Lacewood Drive, Halifax | 902.457.3072 www.winekitzhalifax.ca | winekitz@eastlink.ca |

The Celtic Heart of Halifax

You’ll Love Our Eggrolls

The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse 5136 Prince Street, Halifax | 902.492.4900 www.oldtriangle.com | halifax@oldtriangle.com

May Garden 57 Beaver Bank Road, Lower Sackville | 902.865.2226 www.maygarden.ca

Tracey Cromwell, owner and master chef of Edible Morsels, specializes in weddings and in-home dinner parties of up to eight people. Book today with Edible Morsels.

Caribbean Twist offers authentic Jamaican cuisine. Come try our award-winning dishes and desserts. Book our full-service catering to add a Caribbean flavour to any meeting or celebration.

Great pub food, including lunch and weekend brunch. Full service bar with excellent wine selection. Live music seven nights a week, and never a cover charge.

204

FineLifestyles

HRM

Add a special touch to any event with a custom-designed candy buffet. We are a friendly family business that’s dedicated to making your candy dream a reality.

Excellent products and service, guaranteed.

Halifax’s first in–store winery.

May Garden, locally owned, offers fresh and authentic Chinese food with a family feel. Come try our ever-expanding menu and Aunt May’s recipes at one of our three convenient locations.

Seal of Approval: Fresh

Halifax’s Newest Food Experience

Acadian Fish and Chips 1990 Hammonds Plains Road, Hammonds Plains | 902-407-7000 www.acadianfishandchips.ca

Edible Matters Cafe l Pantry l Catering 1345 Hammonds Plains Road, Hammond Plains | 902.446-5588 www.ediblematters.com |

Golf and Country Club Membership, Redefined

Cole Harbour Place Embraces Community

Oakfield Golf and Country Club 6055 Highway #2 Oakfield NS | 902.861.2777 ext 4, then 2 | oakfield.ca |

Cole Harbour Place 51 Forest Hills Parkway | P 902.464.5100 | F 902.464.5124 cburgess@coleharbourplace.com | www.coleharbourplace.com |

Avon Valley Golf and Country Club

Making You Feel Better

Avon Valley Golf and Country Club 595 Falmouth Back Road, Falmouth | 902.798.2673 genmgr@eastlink.ca | www.avonvalleygolf.com |

Wilsons Pharmasave 213 Commercial Street, Berwick | 902.538.3185 www.wilsonspharmasave.com

At Acadian Fish and Chips, you will discover a sunny, spacious dining area offering fresh fish, clams, scallops, lobster rolls and lobster chowder. Drop in today and give us your seal of approval.

One of Atlantic Canada’s finest championship 18-hole golf courses now accepting a limited number of applications for full and trial memberships for the 2013 season. Contact Director of Membership Sheila Whiting.

Our Mission: to provide the best overall golf experience in Western Nova Scotia on a full facility course recognized for friendly, superior service, playability and grooming at competitive rates.

Edible Matters cafe and pantry is a locally and seasonally inspired cafe, offering a creative and unique dining experience in Canadian cuisine. Enjoy the restaurant setting or take home to enjoy.

The focal point for our community and one of the finest, independently run facilities in Nova Scotia. We want everyone to enjoy and reap the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

Committed to providing products and services that enable customers to live a healthier life. Full-service pharmacy with health and beauty, cosmetics and magaziness to exceed your healthcare needs.

FineLifestyles

HRM

205

HRM AND AREA

RETAIL MARKETPLACE

DIRECTORY

Personally Tailored Interior Design

Be Part of the Revolution

Tower Interiors Ltd. Halifax, NS | 902.455.1544 www.towerinteriors.ca |

Revolution Windows and Doors Ltd. 270 Wyse Road, Dartmouth | 902.464.5050 | f: 902.464.4747 www.revolutionwindowsanddoors.com

Re-invent Your Real Estate Income

Sit Back, Relax and Enjoy Your Evenings

Exit Realty 1st Call Elmsdale 902.883.3948 | Truro 902.893.3948 www.exitrealty1st.ca

Atlantic Stoves & Fireplaces 2410 Highway #2, Waverley | 902.576.3473 www.atlanticstoves.ca

Always On Call for the Little Emergencies

Lighting You Will Love

Halifax Chem-Dry 367 Windmill Road, Dartmouth | 902.468.9119 www.halifax.chemdry.ca

Atlantic Lighting Studio 16 Elm Avenue, Wolfville | 902.542.3431 | 866.542.3431 AtlanticLightingStudio.com |

Our registered interior designers will transform your interior vision into reality through drafting of plans, space planning, lighting layouts, interior finishes and custom window treatments.

Exit leads the way in providing the most innovative tech tools available. Grow your business to include a third level of income without changing the way you work.

We are here when you need us, whatever your emergency. You can also bring your wool area carpets to us for full service cleaning. We specialize in cleaning all your fine home furnishings.

206

FineLifestyles

HRM

We are dedicated to providing our customers with exceptional products and great customer service. We truly care about our customers and value their business.

With an inviting Napoleon fireplace, we have many different models to suite everyone’s decor and style. Ambiance is everything!

Our qualified team offers exceptional service and expert advice with decisions, from choosing the right bulb to designing your complete lighting plan, inside and out.

The Clear Solution

A Staycation in Your Backyard

Polytech Widows and Doors 41 Williams Avenue, Dartmouth | 902.468.4551 www.polytechproducts.com |

Sparkling Pools And Spas 515 Main Street, Dartmouth | 902.462.8187 www.sparklingpools.ca

Got a House to Sell? I’ll Get Right On It.

Leader in Energy Efficient Custom Homes

Manufactured in Atlantic Canada, Polytech windows and doors are European designed with tilt and turn technology.

If you’re buying or selling a home—on the Halifax peninsula or beyond—don’t let it be a stressful, scary experience. Give Caylum a call; he’ll get right on it.

Let us transform your backyard into a private all inclusive resort.

From fibreglass in-ground pools to affordable above ground models—we do it all.

10-year Atlantic New Home Warranty /R-2000 Certified/TechReady Certified/ EnerGuide 86+/Bilingual Services.

Caylum Evong—Realty Connect 902.209.7488 | caylumevong@eastlink.ca www.hrmproperties.ca | | |

Dreamgate Homes 642 Rhodora Drive, Middle Sackville | 902.449.9205 dreamgatehomes.ca | admin@dreamgatehomes.ca

Crafted with Care

Vacation at Home

CP Stairmasters Inc. 41 Glendale Avenue, Lower Sackville | 902.864.2687 www.cpstairmasters.com | online@cpstairmasters.com

Holland Home Leisure 8794 Commercial Street, New Minas | 902.681.3030 www.hollandhomeleisure.com | info@hollandhomeleisure.com

With the broadest range of materials and styles in Eastern Canada, let our experienced staff at CP Stairmasters Inc. help you create a custom-made staircase for your home.

Providing the perfect escape, Holland Home Leisure offers high quality outdoor furniture, gas fire tables, hot tubs, in-ground and above ground pools. You don’t have to travel to get away.

FineLifestyles

HRM

207

furnishings, fabrics and carpets.

HRM AND AREA

RETAIL MARKETPLACE

DIRECTORY

Solutions For All Your Electrical Needs

Sunscreen for your Home and Office

Benoit Electric Limited 1268 St. Margarets Bay Road, Beechville | 902.876.0904 www.benoitelectric.ca | info@benoitelectric.ca |

Maritime Window Film Specialists Halifax: 902.422.6290 | Moncton: 506.855-0855 Toll free: 1-800-667-8468 | www.cooltint.com |

At Benoit Electric, we will listen, share ideas and respond positively to your electrical requests. We care, and that means you will be happy with our professional work.

The sun fades your furniture, flooring and artwork. Block 99.9% of harmful UV rays through installation of Solar Window Film. Free consultation and workmanship guaranteed.

© 2010 CPFilms Inc., a subsidiary of Solutia Inc., St. Louis, Missouri, USA. All rights reserved. Vista™ and Vista and logo® are trademarks of CPFilms Inc. As used herein, ® denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only. Images may be simu

Elegant Bathware Showroom

Your Waterfront Specialists

Eddy Group 31 Oland Crescent, Bayers Lake Business Park | 902.450.3033 www.eddyelegantbathware.com | www.eddygroup.com

Eagle Beach Contractors Ltd. amy@eaglebeachcontractors.ca | 902.835.7664 www.eaglebeachcontractors.ca

People Helping People

Motorcycle Apparel and Bling

Sean & Christine Watt REALTOR® HomeLife Atlantic. Real Estate Inc. | 233 Bedford HWY 902.220.7326 | www.wattahome.com

Riding in Style 512 Sackville Drive Lower Sackville | 902.252.3377 ridinginstyleleather@yahoo.ca | www.ridinginstyleleather.ca |

At Eddy Group, we encourage people to come to us in their design and dream stages, start with a wish list and let our experience enhance your experience.

Buying and selling is an exciting and sometimes challenging experience. We have the systems in place, along with the skills and resources to assist you with your goals.

208

FineLifestyles

HRM

Visit Eagle Beach Contractors for everything from small residential docking systems to marinas and large scale wharves. Call today for a free on-site visit and quotation.

We specialize in brand name apparel such as Bristol, Zony, Allstate, HMB and more. The Sewing Corner takes care of all your leather repair, hemming and alteration needs.

Always Working to Save You Money

Trailblazing Through HRM

Wilsons Gas Stops 3617 Barrington Street, Halifax | 1-888-894-5766 info@wilsons.ca | www.wilsons.ca | |

Halifax Motorsports 818 Prospect Road, Goodwood | 902.442.4046 www.halifaxmotorsports.com |

Wilsons Fuel Co. Limited operates 55 independent service stations and distributes fuel to 215 dealers in Atlantic Canada. Use cash or debit at our HRM locations and save 3.5cpl on your fill-up.

Providing Atlantic Canada the best customer service in the industry.

Offering a full line of after-market parts, accessories and apparel for motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides and snowmobiles for all brands.

Join a great team!

We are expanding and looking for sales staff, editors, writers, designers and more. If you have what it takes to work in the dynamic publishing industry, we’d love to hear from you. info@finelifestyles.ca

Everything You Want for Your Floors

Visit us for everything from custom tile and carpets to exotic hardwoods. We know flooring best. 100% customer satisfaction with Buyer’s Edge Guarantee.

Floorscapes 20 Duke Street, Bedford | 902.864.1221 sales@floorscapes.ca | www.florscapes.ca

CHECK OUT OUR

NEW WEBSITE! www.FineLifestyles.ca AmAzing Recipes FRee DigitAl mAgAzines AnD much moRe

FineLifestyles

HRM

209

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY © 2013 DIAGEO CANADA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. TOUS DROITS RÉSERVÉS.

C U S TO M D E S I G N E D A N D M A D E M E N ’ S A N D WO M E N ’ S C LOT H I N G 180MODA.COM | info@180moda.com | 902.482.0505 | 5571 CUNARD ST, SUITE 206 HALIFAX NOVA SCOTIA