Fine Lifestyles Kingston Spring 2015

FineLifestyles SPRING 2015 | VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1

KINGSTON

A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICE

SCOTT MCGILLIVRAY: THE MAN BEHIND THE SMILE KINGSTON DINING GUIDE SPECIAL FEATURE: DISCOVER BROCKVILLE

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first word With Fine Lifestyles editors AnnA DelAney & lori McKAy

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FineLifestyles KINGSTON

www.finelifestyles.ca Spring 2015 Volume 3, Issue 1

elcome to Fine Lifestyles Kingston’s spring issue! Gracing our cover are Mike and Michelle Koiranen, owners of Omega Fit Club in Kingston’s west end. In their feature story, the couple encourages everyone to find a gym that’s a good fit and offers tips on how to stay with a fitness routine!

Editor Anna Delaney annad@finelifestyles.ca Lori McKay lorim@finelifestyles.ca

In this issue, we are pleased to introduce a new contributor — HGTV’s Scott McGillivray, who many will recognize from the popular show Income Property. Watch for him throughout the year in this magazine, as well as Fine Homes Kingston, as he shares his wealth of knowledge in renovations and the housing market.

Staff Writers Trina Annand, Henny Buffinga, Melanie Furlong, Tobie Hainstock, Tonya Lambert, Tori Stafford, Courtney Tait

For many people, travel is top-of-mind at this time of year. An extraordinary hotel suite can make the difference between an average vacation and a luxury dream escape. Be sure to check out our Around the World in Luxury story, highlighting some of the world’s one-of-kind hotels. Also in this issue, columnist Lisa Drader-Murphy introduces us to the style of well-known international opera singer Measha Brueggergosman. Learn about the history of Manolo Blahnik’s fashionable footwear and read through our Kingston Dining Guide and Discover Brockville special features.

The following pages offer some of the best resources to get you ready for spring. Happy reading!

Lori & Anna

Art Direction Amber Moon (Senior), Lisa Redden (Associate) Design Natasha Burkholder, Candace Haiko, Ghislaine Moffitt, DeAnne Bell

Contributing Writers Lisa Drader-Murphy, Erin Legg, Katrina Geenevasen, Brook Thalgott, Kim Meathrel Cover Photography Stephen Wild Photography Stephen Wild, Jen Fitzpatrick, Matthew English, Amanda Gatehouse, Lauren Kaufmann, Suzy Lamont, Chris James, Chris Watkins, Robby Breadner, Judi Goldie, Bernard Clark, Rosalyn Gambhir, Stephan Potopnyk Associate Publisher Cathie Watson cathie@finelifestyles.ca 613.453.5697 Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca Fine Lifestyles Kingston is proudly delivered by the athletes of Kingston Gymnastics Club finelifestylesandfinehomesmagazineskingston @finemagkingston

Fine Lifestyles Kingston is published by the Group of Fine Magazines Ltd. Fine Magazines is independently owned. Opinions expressed by Fine Magazines are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers.

Fine Magazines does not assume liability for content.

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All rights reserved. ©Fine Magazines Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. For reproduction requests, please call 306.540.3320.

Cathie Watson Associate Publisher cathie@finelifestyles.ca 613.453.5697

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Jacqui Lysko jacquil@finelifestyles.ca 613.213.3145

Jacqui FitzGerald jacquif@finelifestyles.ca 613.484.3728

Everything You’ll Need For THEIR Big Day StyliSh dreSSeS for mother of the bride/groom and bridal acceSSorieS Welcome to leigha’s designer closet, where personal customer service, quality and value are the hallmarks on which our reputation and client loyalty was built. offering a whole new experience in shopping for designer fashions, shoes, handbags, jewelry and accessories, all at a discount of at least 50 per cent off retail prices.

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CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS STYLE ..................................................... 8 HEALTH & WELLNESS ......................20 ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT...........................56 SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL.............................................86 HOUSE & HOME .................................93

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WHEELS .............................................. 112 BUSINESS ........................................... 118 DISCOVER BROCKVILLE ............... 125 FEATURES Integrating Allopathic & Complementary Medicines..................20 COVER STORY: Omega Fit Club .......24 Special Feature: Senior Care...............46 Private Schools .........................................50 Kingston Dining Guide ..........................63 Scott McGillivray: Reno and Real Estate Investing Expert .........................93

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e l b a tt e g r o f n U Plants & Pots FLOWERS & FINE GIFTS 500 Gardiners Road Gardiners Town Centre Kingston 613.547.4882 | 800.461.2981 www.plantsandpots.net

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STYLE

MANOLO BLAHNIK

FABULOUS FASHION 8

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or more than 40 years, Manolo Blahnik has been designing sophisticated shoes that are a synthesis of creativity and comfort rarely found in fashionable footwear.

Largely responsible for bringing stilettos back into fashion during the platform days of the 1970s, Manolo Blahnik fabricated expensive but elegant shoes, which remained the exclusive knowledge of an elite group of European consumers until the 1990s. Then frequent mention of the coveted footwear on the British comedic sitcom Absolutely Fabulous (1992-2012) and the American television series Sex and the City (1998-2004) brought the now iconic brand to the attention of women all over the world.

In 1970, the fledgling designer and avid film fanatic was encouraged by American Vogue editor Diana Vreeland to concentrate his immense talents on fashioning footwear. With no formal training in shoe design or construction, Blahnik set out to learn all he could by watching and working alongside manufacturers. To this day, the always impeccably attired artist carves the prototypes for each of his shoes first by machine and then by hand with a chisel, making sure that the symmetry and balance are just right to achieve maximum comfort. According to Blahnik, a perfectly balanced stiletto enables the alignment of the ankles and hips, resulting in a graceful and attractive sway of the body.

In addition to being remarkably comfortable, Blahnik’s shoes are known for their wonderful shapes, fearless use of colour and intricate embroidery, not to mention their incredible array of embellishments, ranging from the fun and quixotic to the elegant and refined.

Often referred to simply as ‘Manolos’ or ‘Blahniks,’ every one of the shoes fashioned by this Spanish-Czech designer has its own distinctive personality and is created with a particular type of woman in mind.

& ABLE

By Tonya Lambert

The long-time resident of Bath, England, says his ideas often come to him while he is sleeping or as he is waking up. Inspired by a myriad of different things, Blahnik is heavily influenced by his lifelong passion for the fabrics and fashions of the 18th century. Excellent examples from his current collection include the maroon and bronze brocade Locka BB pumps with maroon and green tassels as well as the intricate floral lace cutouts of the Bricamina ankle boots. Another key source of inspiration for Blahnik is the rounded forms and flowing lines of the artwork of modernist British sculptors Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. Such fluid forms grace a number of the pumps in his most recent collection, including the Ansota, Letrino, Tangeri and Traspuespo.

Over the years, Blahnik has collaborated with many well-known fashion designers, such as Oscar de la Renta and Christian Dior. Nevertheless, Blahnik himself is not a follower of fashion and does not keep abreast of current style trends. He believes that changes in fashion should evolve slowly rather than drastically each year.

His shoes are handmade from top quality materials and are meant to last for years, even decades, rather than just a season.

Blahnik designs each and every one of the men’s and ladies’ shoes produced under the Manolo Blahnik label. Manufactured in six factories in Italy, these pricey but pretty shoes and boots are available in more than 250 stores in 28 countries worldwide, including the firm’s flagship store on Old Church Street in the Chelsea district of London. Once described by Madonna as being ‘better than sex,’ the acquisition of a pair of these sophisticated shoes is the dream of many women the world over.

Sarah Jessica Parker of Sex and the City, the show that made Manolo Blahnik a household name.© Featureflash | Dreamstime.com - Sarah Jessica Parker Photo STYLE

Dress For Your Shape

Christine Bratt Chris James 253 Ontario Street, Kingston 613.541.0707 info@chrisjameskingston.com www.chrisjameskingston.com

DEFINING CONTEMPORARY STYLE

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own unique set of challenges. However, there are several general rules that will help you no matter what your shape.

Fitted is always more flattering than tight; stretch in any fabric is a girl’s best friend; hem lengths on a skirt or crop pants should never hit at the widest part of your leg; and a little bit of sexiness in dressing goes a long way (i.e. pick one asset to flaunt).

eauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Everyone has something about their body they would like to change or improve.

Fortunately, there are some tricks to dressing for your shape, and to best show off what you love about yourself.

I find the most common problems are the ones that seem the hardest to solve and the ones these books don’t seem to cover. The answers come with being in the business for more than 20 years and experimenting on shapes with different silhouettes.

Read any beauty book and they’ll tell you bodies generally come in four shapes: apple, pear, rectangle and the envy of all — the hourglass. Each of these has its

If you are a different size on top than on the bottom, buy separates or pieces that have extra fabric in the part where you need it — think a blouson top or an A line

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skirt. Long in the torso? So am I. Again, separates can be the answer. Tops that are longer will hide where the transition happens — empire waists or pants/skirts that tend to be a little higher in the waist are good styles to love. In general, stay away from low riders. Maybe you are athletic and have more power in your legs than most, so stretch fabrics and straight silhouettes are for you. This doesn’t mean skinny-legged styles are out, they just need to be balanced so you don’t end up looking thigh heavy.

Sometimes we are wowed by someone we think has got it all together and looks like a million bucks. We try to emulate it only to realize it doesn’t look nearly as good on us as it did on them.

Disappointing. But with a little tweaking and individual focus, we can find your million-dollar look!

Modern Fit: Stylish, Sleek & Streamlined

Jim Adams Chris James 253 Ontario Street, Kingston 613.541.0707 info@chrisjameskingston.com www.chrisjameskingston.com

you. Pants are slimmer and straighter; shirts, sweaters and jackets are closer to the body. Armholes are typically higher, and sleeves are straighter. Even in short sleeved shirts, the sleeves end typically at mid-bicep instead of at the elbow.

DEFINING CONTEMPORARY STYLE

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odern fit stands for an entire grey area of clothing that typically lies between relaxed and slim fits.

For a number of years, the biggest development in menswear has been a move toward a sleeker profile. Gone are the days of pleats, boxy fits and generous sizings. Today, the modern fit is cleaner and more streamlined. It generally makes you look like you’re wearing the clothes instead of the fabric wearing

If you’ve bought pieces from collections such as Ben Sherman, Penguin or Fred Perry, these brands are considered more of a modern fit. But lots of brands also carry several fits within their arsenal — Stones, Strellson and Lipson, just to name a few. These companies have embraced the change of moving their customers to more of a modern silhouette, which is more flattering and stylish, while realizing it takes some of us more time to get there.

Think you can’t wear a slim fit? You might be right. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t a modern fit out there for you. Each company builds its clothing from size

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specifications that are slightly different.

Generally, if you find a company whose fit works for you that’s a good place to start.

And don’t play the letter game — you are whatever size fits. It’s not unusual to have to go up a size when moving to a modern fit. In the beginning, you may find you feel a little restricted if you have been used to a bigger fit. But just remember what you are actually doing while wearing that item — stop rolling your arms around and doing squats, you’re not wearing them to the gym.

Wherever your fit lies, remember that besides your style advisor — wife, daughter or the mirror — a good tailor and dry cleaner are your wardrobe’s best friends. Think of the modern fit as the difference between being appropriately dressed versus stylishly dressed. It’s 2015; get with the times.

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IT’S A RETRO

Kind of Summer Photos Stephen Wild and courtesy House of Angelis

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fter a long winter of hibernation, it’s hard to start thinking of light fabrics, bright colours and warm weather – but the good news is: it is inevitable.

Spring is upon us, bringing with it the bohemian-chic influence that dominated the runways this season. Bringing those trends into Kingston, the girls at House of Angelis are excited to help women in the Limestone City embrace the styles of the season and celebrate spring – and, of course, look good doing so.

“Spring 2015 brings us closer to a cooler and softer side of the colour spectrum than we have been in a few seasons,” says Joanne Angelis, who, along with her sister, Maria, and mother, Vaso, owns and operates House of Angelis. “For your wardrobe, most importantly this means the traditional summer weight fabrics are more supple and softer in texture. Think less sheer in the traditional sense, and focus more on retro patterns and highly textured fabrics.”

When they entered showroom after showroom to source items for their boutique women’s clothing store, Joanne and Maria were immediately hit with nostalgia for the early 1970s, conjuring up images of fabulous bohemian nights filled with women draped in soft, diaphanous fabrics.

“Even power-dressing has not been left unscathed. The new trouser suit is now softer, with whimsical touches,” Maria says. “Skirt lengths are longer and, in an ode to Josephine Baker, fringe is everywhere!”

Of course, all this whimsy means foundation wear is key. Lighter fabrics and colours require body smoothers. Joanne points to the ever-comfortable Top Model collection of foundation wear from Simone Perele Paris and famously comfortable bras from Prima Donna Belgium.

“Finally, ladies! Lingerie that looks as good as it feels. Both of these brands offer bras that fit well, feel great and are beautiful to

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boot,” Joanne says, noting since Oprah’s infamous bra fitting show, women have been inundated with information on the importance of a well-fitting bra. “We couldn’t agree more. However, there is much more to a bra than simply its size – shape is equally important. Like we’ve mentioned before: give us 20 minutes and we can help you determine size and the correct shape for your body type.”

When it comes to accessories this spring, the “it” bag returns. Minimalistic styles have been replaced with embellished hardware and highly textured fabrics.

“Canadian designer, and one of our favourites, Karen Wilson, showcases just this,” Joanne explains. “Traveling all over North America, she sources the most beautiful fabrics, some of which are vintage, to create a collection of handbags that are truly works of art. Handmade by her, attention to detail is her forte.”

Following the 70s theme, wedges strutted their way across many a runway

this season. Supple leathers and printed fabrics make this relatively chunky looking sandal very sexy.

“Stuart Weitzman’s wedges offer style, trend and comfort for all those girls like us who love him,” says Maria. “What’s great about the wedge is you get the height of a heel with the comfort of a flat. Every woman needs a pair this year.”

ABOVE Joanne Angelis & Maria Angelis

fash ion empor ium

House of Angelis 63 & 65 Brock Street Kingston, Ont. 613.544.9721 info@houseofangelis.ca www.houseofangelis.ca

STYLE

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THE ICONIC STYLE O F O P E R A M E G A S TA R

MEASHA BRUEGGERGOSMAN Since a friend introduced us a few years back, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Measha Brueggergosman. I see even more of the well-known international opera singer now, after she purchased a home only a kilometre from my place in Nova Scotia last summer.

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By Lisa Drader-Murphy National Fashion Columnist Photo Sue Siri Photography

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nown for her iconic sense of style — including breathtaking performance gowns — the New Brunswick native is a graduate of the University of Toronto with a double major in vocal performance and early music. She speaks four languages and is no stranger to worldwide travel.

Carnegie Hall in New York, Teatro Real in Madrid, Place Des Arts in Montreal, Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, have all welcomed Brueggergosman’s presence and powerful vocals. She has performed for many dignitaries, including Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth, and Scandinavian Royalty.

of the suitcase or rescued from the pile of clothes in the corner of my hotel room. I also work primarily with Canadian designers. Because my job is international, I want to be more than an ambassador for myself. As a judge on Canada’s Got Talent, stylist Lisa Williams worked with designers of my choosing.

On a recent stormy winter evening, Brueggergosman burst through my front door and passed me a brown paper bag.

“Traffic was slow. I brought charcuterie!”

MB: This is true. When it comes to the stylists and designers involved in the opera, nine times out of 10 they won’t put a wig on me. They find a way to make my hair part of the character. I’m blessed by having a strong statement and it’s difficult to separate who I essentially am and the part that I’m hired to play. I think this should be a metaphor for all women, because no one should be subjected to discomfort. I only perform in bare feet.

If I can avoid wearing shoes, I will. I’ve also been blessed with directors who understand that. But being comfortable does not mean being unglamorous.

There is a cemented-ness to my style that projects a way of interpreting the character. I recently had a director in Madrid who thought a character was a certain way, but when he met me he knew it had to be something else. He

As the storm raged outside, we settled by the fire with our charcuterie to chat about independent designers and trends — two of my favourite topics — and the influences defining Brueggergosman’s personal style.

Lisa Drader-Murphy: Does someone style your performance wardrobe, or is it your own creative expression?

Measha Brueggergosman: The decision is ultimately mine. The key to my gown choice is always durability and travelability. I’m not interested in fussy fashion.

I want fashion that is instantaneously glamorous as soon as it’s taken out

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LDM: You have a recognizable signature style that sets you apart as a performer and a personality. Your gorgeous hair is iconic! I’ve noticed you often perform barefoot. I would imagine a performer’s appearance is typically dictated by the role, but you seem to have more freedom.

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wanted me to feel that the character was an extension of myself. The same should be true of fashion. Never wedge yourself into something for the sake of a trend.

LDM: You have experienced incredible cultural diversity with your international performance schedule — you’re a selfdescribed “style tourist.” How is your style influenced by your travels?

MB: I’m inspired by the local designers.

I find the neighbourhood in Douala or Winnipeg or Tokyo that features the designers who are not exported, so I may serve as their exporter. I love to say, “These earrings I found in Granada…

This scarf I found in Oslo!” I search out the fashion that is closest to the roots of the locale, whether it’s sealskin boots in Happy Valley-Goose Bay or beautiful knits in Oslo. I’ve discovered shapes that just don’t exist in Western culture that are incredibly flattering, such as the traditional Bassa dress of Cameroon. It is so forgiving — fitted shoulders and chest and then free flowing.

LDM: Speaking of Cameroon, your recent project, Songs of Freedom, is a documentary chronicling your family’s genealogy in song, eventually taking you to the roots of your black heritage, which you found in that country. Was your style for this project infused with local influence?

MB: Yes. I wanted to exercise my personal fashion philosophy, while immersing myself in the country of my origin. My producers found Joseph So, a tailor in Douala, and we set out to create my wardrobe. Joseph had a vision for me.

I selected fabrics and he decided how to use them. His atelier may be in the middle of a dirt road and without windows, but his skills are just as sharp as a tailor on the Upper East Side in New York. Fashion is the language that I speak, wherever my travels take me.

Lisa Drader-Murphy is a Canadian fashion designer and presides over one of the few remaining fashion houses in the country to design, cut, produce and retail all of their collections. Established in 1997, she is the creative & driving force behind the celebrated “Turbine” and “Lisa Drader-Murphy” labels.

Her collections are sold at her three posh retail locations, as well as select boutiques across Canada.

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Dealing with Common Hair Problems

and is most certainly not a one-size-fits -all solution.

Marie-Claude Tetrault and Lou Petrie ECHO Hair Salon 344 Bagot Street Kingston 613.542.5069 www.echohairstudio.com echo@echohairstudio.com

COLOUR CORRECTION We’ve all been there — experimented with a boxed hair colour in an attempt to change up our look, only to achieve less-than-desirable results. Hair colour must be customized according to skintone, the percentage of grey and previous colours — but boxed colour is unpredictable

DRY VERSUS OILY SCALPS

You may find after your unsuccessful attempt at home colouring that you need professional help for some colour correction. Colour correction is a complicated matter and should only be attempted by professionals. Consultations — which are complimentary at ECHO — are the most important aspect of the procedure.

An oily scalp — a common problem for those with fine hair — has overactive sebaceous glands. This means your system thinks too much oil is the right balance.

Using a shampoo that strips out your oils may cause your scalp to overreact and produce excess oil. Use a good-quality shampoo and conditioner that’s gentle, which will have less weight. Try, exclusive to ECHO, the Unite volume boost line.

Keep in mind that home or box colour can be very difficult to fix as these products often contain metallic salts. This may result in burnt hair and strange colour hues.

Stylists may choose to do a test strand on your hair to see how it reacts. If your stylist says your expectations won’t be met in only one visit, trust them! Over-processing and compromising the condition of your hair is never a good idea.

Just as oily scalp goes with fine hair, dry scalp can often go with course hair. The beauty of this problem is that you can apply very potent, rich conditioners and massage them thoroughly into your hair and scalp.

Wrap hair in a hot towel for a minute or a movie, rinse and feel the difference!

Try smoothing shampoo and conditioner

by UNITE.

Also remember that colour does not lift colour. Putting a light shade over dark will not lighten it. It may change the tone but not the depth. On the other hand, dark shades will cover light — but unless hair is re-pigmented first, the colour will not last .

One shampoo and all is lost.

Persistent dry scalp can be a more serious condition, and may need a physician’s diagnosis.

As you see, colour correction is not for amateurs. Trust the experts at ECHO!

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Whatever issue you face, remember that products prescribed by a professional stylist will be the right weight and strength for your particular type of hair, and can ease any hair troubles you may be facing this spring.

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A BOUTIQUE

Clothing Experience A S U N I Q U E A S YO U A R E

By Tori Stafford Photos courtesy of Chris James

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hen Chris James opened their doors five years ago, their goal was to offer a tailored service in fashion unlike any other in the city.

A luxe and inviting fashion boutique on historic Ontario Street, Chris James is not your average independent clothing store. Offering high-end designer labels from Canada and around the world, the store caters to the needs of both men and women, with the owners lending their years of expertise in dressing both genders with style, taste, and class.

While the boutique may split the floor space between menswear and womenswear, Jim Adams and Christine Bratt do not split their efforts in order to ensure both their male and female clients’ needs are beyond satisfied.

“Womenswear is as much a focus as menswear,” says Bratt, noting the arrangement allows for an even more unique environment and experience. “It’s a very open and connected store.”

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ABOVE Photo by Stephen Wild

The Chris James DifferenCe Whether walking into Chris James as a first-time customer or as a longtime regular, each client is met with the same experience: those on the floor are knowledgeable of their products.

From which fabrics are best suited for the season, to how to properly fit both men’s and women’s clothing, the professionals at Chris James are there to offer one-onone customer service. Personalized stylist services are available upon request. For those who prefer to browse and touch and experience the garments curated from some of the top designers nationally and abroad — that’s OK, too, says Bratt.

“Whether it is a woman coming in who wants to truly feel the fabrics and try items on, or a man who needs three new dress shirts quickly, we encourage it,” she says.

Some people come in to explore and see what is out there, and others come in with a mission, adds Bratt. “Either way, we are here to help. We generally encourage people to interact with the staff, as we always have more items rolling in, or may be able to show something that was overlooked.” And most often, the best key seasonal items never even hit the floor.

“We know our key clients well, and often when I am buying, I’ll buy with them in mind,” she says. “When the items roll in, it’s generally a personal phone call.”

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“As we always say, women shop and men buy, generally speaking,” Adams continues, explaining Chris James is accustomed to working with all types of shopping habits.

“Really, we are in the people business, we just happen to sell clothes,” he says. “We want to take care of our customers, and try to personally connect with the customers to give them both the product and experience they are looking for.”

Chris James 253 Ontario Street Kingston, Ont. 613.541.0707 info@chrisjameskingston.com www.chrisjameskingston.com

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

INTEGRATING ALLOPATHIC &

Complementary Medicines

By Tonya Lambert

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a multibillion dollar industry in Canada. According to the Public Health Agency, 70 per cent of Canadians use some form of complementary or alternative health care therapies or natural remedies.

These can range from taking vitamins, minerals or botanical products to therapies such as acupuncture, reiki, reflexology, yoga, massage, chiropractic services or traditional Chinese or Aboriginal medicines.

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income brackets is most complementary health care is not covered by provincial health insurance. However, some provinces do cover chiropractic services. Otherwise, people have to pay out-of-pocket use private insurance or employee health benefits to cover the costs.

One of the reasons CAM is more commonly sought out by people in higher

The majority of Canadians who use some form of CAM do so in conjunction with Western allopathic medicine. All drugs and botanicals alter your physiology and how your body reacts to other substances. It is very important your regular doctor and your complementary medical provider are both aware of all the drugs and natural remedies you are taking to avoid any adverse reactions.

CAM in CAnAdA primary distinguishing feature of most CAM is that it treats the entire person and not just the physical body, as Western allopathic medicine does. This whole person approach appeals to many; middle-aged women, highly educated individuals and people with higher incomes comprise the greatest number of CAM users in Canada. People who suffer from a chronic illness, such as migraines or asthma, are also more likely to seek out complementary therapies.

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In Canada, all forms of medicine are part of the same funding body — the Canadian Institute for Health Research. This means that research into CAM is competing for the same dollars as research into Western medicine, making it harder to obtain the necessary funds. In addition, many guidelines for granting research funding in medicine are modelled around the Western allopathic paradigm, making it difficult for research based on other health care paradigms to form effective arguments for funding.

Nevertheless, randomized clinical trials of complementary and alternative medicines are increasing in Canada and other countries. Several of these studies have proven the efficacy of various complementary therapies and these have been adopted by Western physicians. regulAting CAM The federal and provincial governments are playing a greater role in regulating CAM than ever before. The Natural and Non-Prescription Health Products Directorate was established by the federal government in 2004 to regulate natural health products and ensure they are safe to use and of high quality. Natural health products reviewed by the government have a NPM number.

Also, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health publishes online reviews on the effectiveness of various types of therapies.

There is a growing recognition in the Canadian medical community of the value of complementary therapies. In recent years, there has been a surge in the numbers of physicians who have either acquired training in one or more forms of complementary medicine or are working alongside complementary medical practitioners. Key examples of this integration are the recent opening of the Centre of Integrative Medicine at the University of Toronto, as well as the addition of chiropractic services at St. Michael’s Hospital in the same city.

SCientifiC evidenCe vS. HiStoriCAl experienCe Some

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people doubt the efficacy of CAM, citing a lack of scientific evidence. However as Lyndia Balneaves, PhD, director of the Centre for Integrative Medicine, explains, “Just because a scientific study has not been done on a particular type of complementary medicine does not mean it isn’t effective. Some complementary therapies have been practiced for centuries and there is strong historical and experiential data that supports their effectiveness in some individuals.” Also, it is important to remember that some scientifically proven forms of Western medicine have later been found to be harmful, such as synthetic hormone replacement therapy.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Ontario government regulates both naturopathic doctors and practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine. B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba also regulate naturopathic doctors. In Canada, naturopathic doctors must obtain an undergraduate degree comprised of the same pre-med courses as traditional doctors. They then take a four-year program at a CNME-accredited naturopathic medical institute. Finally, they must pass both provincial and North American standardized exams.

Regardless of the type of health care therapies you try, Balneaves says it’s important to remember you still need a solid foundation formed from exercise, a healthy diet and good stress management.

WhAt is hAppening At the cellulAr level?

Aging in Balance

Lizette Lacoursiere DNM RAC Sahaj Sinfield RN, RMT, DNM Let Go Natural Medicine Consultants 626B #11 Cataraqui Woods Drive Kingston 613.634.9094 letgo@kingston.net www.letgo.ca

WhAt Are the cAuses of Aging?

A

ging is a gradual process that all humans go through and is part of our biology. From birth to maturity, health is reflected in our capacity to stay in balance. Aging is a breakdown in our genetic makeup, and as we get older we become vulnerable to developing problems that lead to illness.

Despite the increase risk of getting sick as we age, it really has to do with the ability of our cells to care for themselves. When cells are doing this on their own, we have “aging in balance.”

We are comprised of trillions of cells, and every day we live and die at the cellular level. If our cells are healthy then we are healthy. Daily exposure to oxidative stressors, such as environmental pollution, poor diet, electromagnetic radiation and stress to name a few, damages our cells and leads to aging. At the macroscopic level we can see signs of this, such as grey hair and wrinkles.

At the microscopic level we have the propagation of cellular damage. Oxidative stress that damages the DNA will affect the cells’ ability to function properly. If left unchecked, these damaged cells will divide and reproduce with adjacent cells, and overtime the proliferation of damaged cells can overtake the healthy tissues and make them dysfunctional.

These tissues will not act as they did when they were healthy because of improper communication.

Redox signaling molecules (RSM) are the messengers that communicate where damage is and can signal to the DNA to release the repair molecules to fix it.

Without RSM, the cell can’t recognize there is a problem.

In our youth we have the ability to heal and restore balance because we have an abundance of RSM. Inside the cell, our mitochondria produce ATP which gives us energy. Through this natural reaction of the Krebs cycle, redox signaling molecules are created.

Why is redox Biochemistry so importAnt? Redox biochemistry is a rapidly emerging field of science. The name is based on the term Re-dox — Reduction and Oxidation.

Evidence of redox reactions can be found everywhere. For example, how energy is generated when iron rusts or wood burns. Redox reactions in our cells generate energy for living. Scientists are just beginning to understand that redox reactions play an important role in the regulation of our biology.

This past March, James Watson, Nobel Laureate (co-discover of DNA double helix), wrote in The Lancet medical journal, “Type 2 diabetes is a Redox disease.” He even further postulated that “many major diseases are caused

HEALTH & WELLNESS

by a lack of ROS (redox signaling molecules) and the only way for the body to produce more ROS is through exercise.” He elaborated upon the dual role of Redox molecules “as both an elixir of life and a deadly force… against highly stressed cells.” other fActors to Aging in BAlAnce With age comes decreased production of RSM and the cells become lazy and less responsive. If we can stimulate the cells by different methods to increase RSM, then we can help the body to retain its youthful nature.

• • • • •

Exercise that is moderate, to keep mitochondria producing RSM Diet rich in trace minerals and bio available nutrients Sleep, enough to keep the body restored and rested Peace of mind, to balance stress Supplementation of RSM for balanced aging and cellular health which is only available in the products ASEA and RENU 28 gel

For more information contact Let Go.

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COVER STORY

Omega Fit Club A Healthy Fit for Your Lifestyle

By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

PREVIOUS PAGE Donna Norman, spin instructor, ABOVE Shannon Johnston, trainer

Y

ou wouldn’t buy a pair of running shoes that feel uncomfortable — so why buy a membership at a gym that isn’t a good fit?

Unfortunately, many have had the experience: you check out a gym, somehow get pressured into buying a membership and end up working out only a handful of times throughout the year.

It’s a waste of time and money, but what’s worse is it doesn’t help in achieving your fitness goals. “We hear it every day: people have toured a ‘big box’ gym and been pressured to join on the spot with what appears to be a great deal — only to realize they dislike the atmosphere or the clientele at that gym. They regret joining, and that ‘great deal’ turns into a couple of workouts for a lot of money,” says Mike Koiranen, co-owner of Omega Fit Club in Kingston’s west end. “We have a nopressure sales approach at our facility.

When you’re ready, we’re here to help you get started.”

Koiranen, who owns the club with his wife, Michelle, aimed to do things a little differently when the gym opened six years ago. Now boasting nearly an 80 per cent retention rate amongst their members, one only needs to walk into the facility to realize what makes Omega Fit Club different from other gyms — and why so many members keep coming back.

The FaciliTy and STaFF The first thing you notice when you enter Omega Fit Club is that it isn’t like most other gyms.

The contemporary and streamlined design creates a spa-like ambiance, and the staff is friendly and accommodating; no one is immediately pressuring you to sign a contract or buy their line of protein shakes.

The spotless surfaces and mirrors, organized and sanitized equipment and relaxed environment are taken very seriously by the Koiranens’ and their team at Omega.

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Maintaining a clean and organized environment that is bright, airy and comfortable is one of their main objectives, says Koiranen. “There are three things people are looking for in a gym: a clean space; good, well-maintained equipment; and, most importantly, results,” he says with a smile. “To get results, you have to put the work in — we can’t do that for you. But what we can control is that it is kept as clean and spotless as possible at all times, and that the equipment is good quality and wellmaintained. Those are the things we focus on, and those are the things we are No. 1 at.”

The GoodS Omega Fit Club offers the best in state-of-the-art fitness equipment, including a full line of TechnoGym weight training and cardio machines. Designed in Italy, TechnoGym creates equipment specifically designed to achieve results, all while being userfriendly and conducive to the body’s natural movements and limitations. Each

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COVER STORY

piece of high-end cardio equipment is equipped with a touch screen control with television access and an iPod dock.

Omega Fit Club also offers a kinesis wall, which uses natural body movements and low-impact tension, allowing users to practice sport-specific motions or training programs. It is also great for those overcoming injury to work on physiotherapy or rehabilitation.

The gym has two rooms dedicated for spin and group glasses. Inside the spinning room at the front of the gym, 18 cutting-edge bikes are available.

Manufactured by LeMonde fitness, the bikes are a favourite for members who attend the spin classes offered daily.

Omega Fit Club continues to buck the trend other gyms have created; the team recognizes there is no “one-size-fits-all” package or plan when it comes to personal fitness. With that in mind, personal trainers are available on an as-much-or-as-little as needed basis, Koiranen explains. “If someone comes in and they want one session with a trainer so they can become familiar with the gym or address a concern, that’s great,” he

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says. “If someone comes in and they want a personal trainer three or four times a week, or if they just want to come in, focus and keep to themselves, that’s great, too! We want our members to come in and feel comfortable coming in; that way they keep coming in, and achieve their own fitness goals.”

Each year, the gym likes to upgrade and add one thing for its members. This allows the facility to remain up to date and keeps things exciting for their longtime members. Recently, members at Omega were given access cards to allow them into the facility any time of day — it’s an added convenience that means more people working toward their fitness goals, says Koiranen.

The PerkS On top of the high-calibre equipment, knowledgeable and friendly staff and pristine, well-maintained facility, Omega Fit Club offers members services to enhance their experience.

From a towel service that means it’s OK to forget your towel at home, to a modern, standing tanning bed, the perks at Omega are there to help members feel comfortable and relaxed. The gym recently expanded

HEALTH & WELLNESS

its infrared sauna service by adding another sauna to eliminate wait times.

For the Koiranens and the whole team at Omega Fit Club, it’s all part of offering Kingstonians an elite gym experience, and a place where members want to work out, says Koiranen. “Omega Fit Club was built for the average person who wants to get fit and stay healthy. We have had some really fit members here, but we realize not everyone who works out is a bodybuilder or a professional athlete,” he says.

TOP LEFT Shannon Johnston, trainer TOP RIGHT Mike and Michelle Koiranen, owners

“Every decision we make, we ask ourselves, ‘How would a first-time member or someone new to working out feel in here?’ I think this approach has paid off, as you can see a friendly, comfortable mix of all shapes and sizes here on a daily basis.”

Omega Fit Club 767 Bayridge Drive (Metro Plaza) 613.634.3484 info@omegafitclub.ca www.omegafitclub.ca Fine Lifestyles Kingston wishes to thank Sam Goliger from James Brett Coiffure and Aesthetics, House of Angelis and Murano’s Formalwear for their collaboration on the cover shoot.

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The Best Bridal Makeup Starts with a Consultation

Paula Foster owner/operator Diva Salon & Day Spa 336 Princess St., Kingston 613.544.4067 www.divasalonanddayspa.com

When it comes to makeup for your wedding day, it’s important to have a plan of action. Collecting different makeup looks from either Pinterest or magazines is a great way to start. Keep a small portfolio with similar looks that you can show your makeup artist. Think about what made you choose that makeup look. Did you like the soft, dewy finish of the skin; the elegant yet strong eyebrow shape; the contoured jawline and highlighted cheekbones, or simply the colour of the eye shadow and lipstick?

Being able to communicate how you want to look and feel on your wedding day makes it easier for your makeup artist to deliver your best look. Your idea of “natural” might not be very natural at all. So be prepared to discuss and define what you are looking for.

A makeup trial should also focus on other relevant wedding day facts, such as:

P

lanning a wedding can be an exciting yet overwhelming time for the newly engaged bride.

There are so many decisions, plans, hopes and dreams to be realized, not to mention the costs involved. Your photographer will capture your special day and you’ll cherish those photos forever, so of course you want to look your best. Choosing a hair and makeup team that shares your wedding day vision is an important part of this process.

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What time of year are you getting married? A mid-August outdoor wedding, where the chance of humidity is great, could affect the longevity of your makeup. Switching to siliconebased airbrush foundation/concealer/ blush etc. increases durability in warm temperatures.

What time of day is the ceremony?

Maybe your ceremony is a cocktail partyinspired early evening gathering — a light and natural application will need a bit more drama and depth for the best photos in this case.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

What is your overall wedding colour scheme? Will your bridesmaids and your floral bouquet be soft muted tones, or rich and vibrant? Is your wedding dress pure white, ivory or blush?

These are important points of interest for a makeup artist to know. Together, you are creating a plan of action to achieve a longwearing makeup look appropriate for all types of venues, photography and lighting.

Included in your plan should be some skincare fundamentals, as well. Can your bridal look be improved upon if you start using a hydrating or brightening mask four weeks before your wedding day?

Should you have a series of exfoliating facial treatments? Should you grow your eyebrows in more? What about eyelash tinting or extensions? This is why booking a makeup trial at least two months before the wedding date is recommended, so there is time to get your skin, eyebrows and eyelashes in optimum shape.

Our best makeup advice for a bride is to be thoughtful on your makeup selections and comfort level. There is a difference between makeup you “like” and makeup you would “wear.” If you normally wear a super smokey eye and bold dark lips, do not be afraid to wear this on your wedding day. However, if it’s typically not a look you would wear, don’t pick your wedding day to start experimenting. You want to look recognizable and radiate happiness, beauty and confidence.

Eye(s) Need a Little Help From My PALS

Nathaniel Della Vedova, O.D. Kingston Optometry 11–2395 Princess Street, Kingston 613.767.5996 kingstonoptometry.ca | | |

J

ohn Lennon and Paul McCartney wrote With A Little Help From My Friends in March 1967 — 48 years ago. So if you were born around that time, odds are your near vision isn’t what it used to be. No wait — Your arms just aren’t long enough… Or the lighting in here isn’t bright enough… Sound familiar?

No matter how you rationalize it, the fact remains that our eyes’ focusing system diminishes over time.

at any one distance. So, if you spend hours reading or at the computer, a pair of task-specific glasses often works best.

Pretty much from the time we are children, our focusing systems becomes less and less effective. This usually catches up to us in our 40s, when our reading becomes strained and blurred.

The nearsighted can often remove their glasses to see up close, but others have a tougher time adjusting to this new reality.

Secondly, I always draw out the lens design for my patients so they understand how PALS work and how to use them effectively. We discuss their pros, cons and the potential adaptation process. This can take a few weeks of head bobbling. I’ve found those unable to adapt are often pushed into PALS too early. Other options can help bridge the gap until PALS become necessary.

These near vision issues often prompt a visit to the optometrist. The exam should end with a discussion of how best to accomplish your visual goals. For many, this involves the use of Progressive Addition Lenses (PALS). There are a lot of preconceived notions about PALS, so let me try to simplify them and break down my approach for patients requiring their first pair.

First of all, PALS are fantastic at providing corrected vision at multiple distances.

They function to provide a great range of vision, but not necessarily the best vision

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Lastly, these aren’t your parents’ PALS. New technology has incorporated high definition (HD) optics into PALS to enhance vision and provide easier adaptation. But not all HD lenses are the same. Higher performance lenses provide wider, clearer vision. Generally, in terms of quality and performance, you get what you pay for. Our optical boutique offers quality “good,” “better” and “best” options so patients can choose a lens that will perform best at any budget.

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An Investment in Health Care,

An Investment in Quality of Life

By Tori Stafford Photos Bernard Clark

T

he stress and burden that come with serious illness or emergency are amplified by fear of the unknown — a reality many face while awaiting diagnostic investigations.

Today, there are as many as 1,000 individuals waiting to have a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) diagnostic test with the sole MRI machine at Kingston General Hospital (KGH). “MRI is becoming an increasingly important diagnostic tool for the assessment of multiple diseases and staging of various kinds of illness,” says Denise Cumming, executive director of University Hospitals Kingston Foundation (UHKF).

“Every year, there are more people who would benefit from this kind of imaging.

The kinds of complex MRI studies that are done at KGH cannot be done at the other three MRI machines in southeastern Ontario,” notes Dr. Annette McCallum, head of diagnostic imaging for Queen’s University and Kingston hospitals.

For example, MRI tests on children or infants typically require the child be sedated, which needs to be carried out by the team at KGH. Special skills are also required for MRI investigations in women at high risk of breast cancer, or who are having MRI-guided biopsies. Other examples are MRIs needed to support care for youth with Crohn’s disease who cannot be repeatedly exposed to radiation, or patients with complex cancer diagnoses.

In fact, about half of the diagnostic imaging work done in Kingston is cancer-related — and given that KGH is home to the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario, there is a huge demand on the sole MRI machine at KGH. “MRI is an important part of cancer diagnosis, treatment and follow-up,” Cumming explains. “Cancer can affect virtually anyone — people of all ages, across

HEALTH & WELLNESS

all cultures and income levels. Our MRI at KGH reaches out to benefit everybody in this region who needs complex imaging.”

While more people are surviving cancer, providing an early diagnosis and ensuring people can receive treatment quickly leads to a greater demand for the use of the single MRI machine at KGH. As the region’s trauma, stroke and neurosurgical centre, these tests are needed to provide physicians with the critical information they need to deliver outstanding care to our loved ones. “The goal is to provide timely access to required imaging to help your physician with your particular illness,” says Cumming.

This is why UHKF is raising funds to acquire a second MRI machine for KGH. Funds raised will support the purchase of the MRI machine, as well as the cost of renovations needed to accommodate it. It’s an endeavour that will cost approximately $6 million.

“We have an exceptional quality of life in this community, and having timely access to highly-specialized health care is a big part of that quality of life. For us to have access to the diagnostic imaging expertise that we do in a community of this size is incredible,” says Cumming. “We need to do what we can to preserve that quality of life and quality of healthcare by investing in equipment our specialists are telling us they need in order to look after us all.”

To support the fundraising initiative for a new MRI machine, contact UHKF by phone, donate online, or give in-person or via mail at the address below.

University Hospitals Kingston Foundation 55 Rideau Street, Suite 4 Kingston 613.549.5452 www.uhkf.ca

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Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Hair Removal does not respond as well to treatment.

There are many factors that can exclude you from being a candidate, including certain medical conditions, usage of Accutane in the last six months, or if you are pregnant or nursing. In order to determine if you are a good candidate, you should consult with a certified laser technician.

Kristine Barker Spa Co-Owner Perfetta Skin Therapy & Medi-Spa 2–725 Arlington Park Place Kingston 613.389.2226 www.perfettaskin.com

L

aser hair removal is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in Canada today.

Here, we address the most common questions.

Am I A good cAndIdAte FoR LAseR HAIR RemovAL? The best candidates have lighter skin and dark, coarse hair. White, grey, blonde or red hair

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How does LAseR HAIR RemovAL woRk? Lasers designed for permanent hair reduction emit wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the pigment in the hair, thus destroying the hair follicle and preventing any new hair growth. Hair growth occurs in a cycle in three main phases: anagen, catagen and telogen. Laser only works when hair is in the anagen phase, the active phase cycle of growth. Thus, patients need multiple treatments in order to disable each batch of hair as it enters this phase.

How mAny tReAtments wILL I need? The number of sessions required depends on the type of your hair and the area of your body being treated. Optimal results are typically seen after six to eight treatments approximately six to eight weeks apart. wHAt IF I HAve excessIve HAIR gRowtH? Before starting laser treatments, patients with excessive hair growth on uncommon areas should explore possible underlying medical reasons. Hair removal methods can only impact hair that’s currently growing. They cannot prevent the body from developing new hair after treatments are completed.

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does It HuRt? Most people feel a mild pinch or the sensation of the snapping of an elastic band against their skin. Typically the comfort level is about the same as waxing.

ARe tHeRe sIde eFFects? After a treatment, some people may experience redness, itching, swelling around the hair follicle, or skin sensitivity similar to mild sunburn. This can last anywhere from an hour to three days. Other side effects such as blistering, crusting or temporary pigment changes are rare.

How do I pRepARe FoR A LAseR tReAtment? The area needs to be shaved and you must avoid plucking or waxing the area for at least six weeks to ensure a hair is growing in that follicle. If the hair is not there, the laser cannot target it. Also avoid the sun or tanning beds and creams such as Retinol/Retin A for at least two weeks prior to and after a treatment to minimize the risk of a side effect.

Is LAseR HAIR RemovAL peRmAnent? A patient can generally tell how much reduction was achieved from a course of treatments after waiting six to 12 months following their last treatment. Any hair that grows in after the 12-month period is new hair that the body can develop due to numerous factors such as age, diet, hormonal changes and certain medical conditions. Patients who experience new growth later in life can get touch-up treatments.

Feline Diabetes and Nutrition

and diet. The clinical signs of diabetes are excessive drinking, urination, eating and weight loss. Following diagnosis by blood work, treatment generally consists of daily insulin injections or oral treatment and frequent monitoring of blood sugar.

Dr. Tim Keller Veterinarian Cataraqui Pet Hospital 1183 Midland Ave., Kingston Located in Cataraqui Pet Centre 613.384.0986 www.cataraquipethospital.ca

D

iabetes is one of the most common feline endocrine diseases. In the diabetic cat, the ability of the pancreas to secrete insulin in response to the presence of glucose and amino acids in the blood is impaired, and there is resistance at the cellular level to the insulin that is present. A number of factors contribute to the development of diabetes, including obesity, genetics

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must meet their nutritional needs through the consumption of animal-based proteins. They lack specific metabolic pathways that allow them to utilize plant proteins as efficiently. Plant proteins do not contain all the critical amino acids required by an obligate carnivore, and while dogs (and humans) can generate the missing amino acids, cats cannot. The cat is uniquely adapted to a carnivorous diet and is not metabolically adapted to ingestion of excess carbohydrates.

Unfortunately, most commercial dry cat food is very high in carbohydrates, primarily because grain-based ingredients are less expensive than meat-based ingredients. Research has shown a lowcarbohydrate, high-protein canned food diet will reduce the likelihood of a cat developing diabetes and, in an already diabetic cat, will regulate fluctuations in blood sugar and may reduce insulin requirements. In some instances the need for insulin is eliminated altogether.* If you wish to feed kibble, it is strongly suggested you research a grain-free, highprotein option. The crude protein in the food should be at least 40 per cent and the

HEALTH & WELLNESS

carbohydrate level should not exceed 20 per cent. If you are not averse to feeding a quality canned food (avoiding commercial cans that rely heavily on meat by-products and other poor quality protein sources) this is a good option. Also, canned food provides additional moisture, which is beneficial as cats do not have a normal thirst mechanism and generally do not drink enough to be adequately hydrated if they eat only dry kibble.

If you have a diabetic cat, you and your veterinarian should consider a trial of high quality, high- protein canned food.

Weight reduction decreases insulin resistance and cats should be fed no more than 30kcal/lb of ideal (meaning what the cat should weigh, not what it does weigh) body weight in two equal meals per day. Caution should be used when initially changing from dry to canned foods as insulin requirements may decrease dramatically, requiring a change in dosage.

Nutrition plays an important role in many aspects of your pet’s health. While there are a number of “adequate” foods on the market, the benefits of a quality food are significant, particularly in the prevention and treatment of the diabetic cat. *Any change to your current insulin/diet regimen should always be discussed first with your cat’s veterinarian. Any advice in this column is not a substitute for a consultation with your veterinarian.

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5 Things You’re Probably NOT Learning in Yoga Class Whether you’re a beginner or have an established practice, here are the principles no student should miss: 1. Practice yoga on an empty stomach.

Carly Stong

owner

235 Gore Road (The Rideau Town Centre) 4 Cataraqui Street (The Woolen Mill) 613.546.5100 carly@thisisyourlifeyoga.com www.thisisyourlifeyoga.com

I

’ve done yoga for many years now; however, as I began teaching and learned more and more about the practice, I was shocked to learn how many variables that come into play when trying to get the most out of your time on the mat. When we dedicate so many hours to yoga every week, shouldn’t we be making the absolute most of it?

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Wait four hours after a heavy meal and at least one hour after a light meal (such as fruit) before you practice yoga. Our digestive systems need a lot of energy to function properly. Redirecting that energy to yoga postures can disrupt digestion, and digestion is the cornerstone of health.

2. If you’re not an early riser, practice yoga around sunset.

If you are an early riser, practice yoga before breakfast when your stomach is empty. The two hours leading up to sunrise are especially conducive to yoga and meditation as the mind is relatively empty of thoughts, alert and fresh and the earth is quiet and still.

If you’re not an early riser, practice around sunset when yoga can relieve fatigue from a hard day’s work. It’s a wonderful way to relax and unwind from your day. Keep in mind, however, an evening practice may limit you as some postures and breathing exercises are too invigorating and stimulating to do right before sleep.

You will benefit no matter when you choose to practice, so find a time that works for you and be consistent — practice around the same time every day.

3. Each yoga posture has a purpose and benefits.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Even those who have never practiced yoga know it makes the body flexible; however, yoga’s benefits go far beyond flexibility. Each yoga posture targets some area of the body. The postures affect all body systems: nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, urinary and reproductive.

Once you come to experience the benefits of the poses, you’ll be more inspired to continue your practice.

4. Yoga is more than a form of physical exercise.

Yoga is a phenomenal form of exercise, but its powerful effects are not limited to the physical body alone. Yoga is a science with a spiritual aim, meant to bring us to a higher state of awareness.

5. Practicing yoga with present moment awareness is not only imperative, but also the goal.

Awareness includes being conscious of the sensations throughout the body, the posture, the synchronization of breath with movement, and noticing any thoughts or feelings that may arise.

In the beginning, it may feel like yoga is designed just to move the body, but when done with awareness it will influence and harmonize all levels of being — physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. It’s tempting to let the mind wander to the to do lists — what you’ll make for dinner, or what the person in front of you is doing when you’re practicing — but being mindful and observant is essential to receive yoga’s maximum benefits (on and off your yoga mat).

745 Gardiners Road - Unit 14, Kingston

613.384.8540

www.247fitness.ca

Kingston Symphony StrikeS a Chord With runnerS

By Katrina Geenevasen Photos Robby Breadner and Judi Goldie

S

ince its humble beginnings more than 20 years ago, Kingston’s Beat Beethoven Run — a fundraising event for the Kingston Symphony — has become known as the city’s ubiquitous start to summer. Every year, hundreds of novice and experienced runners gather at the start line in front of historic city hall to challenge themselves to complete an 8 km run in 50 minutes — the time it takes the symphony to play Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3. “We have a really unique event,” says Todd Pearson, race director. “It’s an event that’s special; I think Kingston is special, and it’s something I wish everybody could experience.”

The Symphony holds several fundraising events throughout the year, but the

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annual race — which has hosted celebrated Canadian athletes such as Sharon Donnelly, Simon Whitfield and Dylan Wykes — is the biggest event of all.

Organizers are set to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the popular run this year, which takes place June 7. Technically, the anniversary was last year, but because the symphony was handing over the baton to a new conductor (Evan Mitchell took over last fall) celebrations were put on hold.

Despite the belatedness, Pearson hopes this year’s race is bigger and better than ever. “We want to crack 1,000 runners this year,” he says hopefully. “That would be fun to do.”

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Kingston Symphony is thankful to all of its corporate sponsors and individual donors, and continues to seek new ones in order to make the race bigger and better. For more information, contact Andrea Haughton at info@ kingstonsymphony.on.ca or 613.546.9729.

ReaLiSTiC goaLS Only target one or two goals at a time and make them SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time sensitive). Start with the easiest and most attainable goals first. Success will give you confidence and confidence will give you strength and momentum.

Personal Trainer Secrets: Sustainable Lifestyle Change

heRe aRe Two examPLeS of SmaRT goaLS:

fitness, lower the risk of disease, start a new workout routine, get more sleep, lose weight or improve your appearance, the number 1 question is: how do I successfully make these changes? There is no “one size fits all” solution. The answer must be tailored for each unique person.

Tracie SmiTh-Beyak Master Personal Trainer International Presenter and Entrepreneur

Here are the critical elements for success: convenience, accountability, realistic goals, support, and expert advice.

Conquer Training & Education 61 Yonge Street, Kingston 613.542.6867 info@conquertraining.guru conquertraining.guru conquereducation.guru

If it isn’t convenient, it will not last. The rule of thumb is your workout space, healthy grocery shopping and all other key resources need to be within a 10 km radius of your home, school or work. Over the last 50 years, numerous studies have mapped the key elements to success and convenience consistently ranks at the top.

ConvenienCe

aCCounTabiLiTy

LifeSTyLe Change At some point in everyone’s life they take a look at their current lifestyle and aspire to make some sort of positive change.

Whether it’s to improve nutrition, improve

You need to be accountable — whether it’s to your partner, your friends, your children, your trainer, an online tracker or your personal journal. Post your goals on social media, and your friends will hold you accountable. Keep the pressure on by knowing something or someone is paying attention and expects you to follow through.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

1. Walk outside for 15 minutes during your lunch break twice a week (i.e.

Tuesdays and Thursdays) for one month. Tell your peers and colleagues that you will be doing this. Log all of your walks in your calendar, diary, or app that logs your mileage. For example, the challenge can start March 16 and end April 16, 2015.

2. Eliminate one highly processed food or beverage from your diet. For example, eliminate pop. Don’t buy it, don’t have it in the house or at work and don’t even consider drinking it for two weeks. Log each successful day on the calendar and share your success with family and friends.

SuPPoRT and exPeRT adviCe Support and expert advice are the last two critical elements needed to succeed.

When you want to give up or skip a day, your support person can help you stay focused and assist you in getting the job done. A support person could be a friend, a relative, a colleague, a family member, an expert or a caregiver. Everyone will have an occasional struggle or barrier to overcome and your support person can make all the difference.

Lifestyle change is overwhelming and extremely confusing. With all the fads, trends and tricks in the media, it’s hard to know what is right for you. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Consult with an expert. Do your research and find someone who is recommended and certified to advise you. Expect to take up to one to two years to reap the benefits (e.g. weight loss, become really fit, decrease health risks) of serious lifestyle change. Anything quicker won’t stick!

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Fitness & Physiotherapy for Every Individual Movement Performance Centre (MPC) brings the worlds of physiotherapy, human movement, personal training and athlete training to one facility.

By Tonya Lambert Photos Stephen Wild

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physiology, MPC’s therapists and coaches employ a highly effective, individualized and evidenced-informed approach to help individuals achieve their own unique health and fitness goals.

Draw ing upo n bio m ec h an ic s , rehabilitation science and exercise

MPC provides different options for high-performance athletes, individuals pursuing fitness goals and those recovering from injury. Each fitness client completes an extensive biomechanical and metabolic assessment to identify movement pattern dysfunctions, muscle imbalances and cardiovascular capacity to design a safe, effective and efficient exercise program that meets each individual’s specific objectives.

rowing up in Kingston, Ryan Beamish and Deano Milonas knew there wasn’t a place where local aspiring and established athletes could find training, movement correction and injury treatment all under one roof. Inspired by internships and experiences at world-renowned strength, conditioning and physical therapy centres, Beamish and Milonas decided to meet those needs and more, and opened Movement Performance Centre (MPC) in 2013.

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Group Fitness MPC has a unique approach to group fitness. Groups are small so every participant receives individual attention in safe, supportive and rewarding exercise sessions. Whether the goal is weight loss, strength gain, or improved cardiovascular ability, MPC’s certified fitness coaches help participants achieve the results they want. Quarterly assessments and reports provide ongoing feedback on each person’s progress.

Athlete trAininG The fitness coaches at MPC help elite athletes achieve success through

specialized, sport-specific training programs. Working from initial assessment results, a certified fitness coach develops a training plan that helps each athlete reach their athletic goals. The coaches work with athletes in all sports, at every level (high school, collegiate, and professional) and have assisted players in the OHL, OSA, CIS, NHL, NFL and CFL achieve their full athletic potential.

Locally, MPC is the best equipped centre for top-quality Keiser equipment. The scientifically tested Keiser pneumatic equipment is specifically designed to be easy on connective tissues and joints while maximizing elite athletes’ abilities to safely develop strength and explosive power — key elements in all sports.

Attention to speed, flexibility, balance and core strength is incorporated into every workout. physiotherApy MPC provides physiotherapy services for both acute and chronic orthopaedic injuries. A registered physiotherapist assesses and diagnoses each individual to develop a treatment plan that combines education, manual therapy techniques and rehabilitative exercise.

Holding Master of Science degrees in physical therapy from Queen’s, registered physiotherapists Ryan Beamish and

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Nicole Hills have expertise in a variety of techniques to relieve pain, restore optimal function and increase resistance to future injury. Both are trained in acupuncture, active release techniques, functional movement systems and neuro-kinetic therapy. Hills is currently pursuing a doctorate in rehabilitation science at Queen’s. Her research explores how the abdominal muscles recover after pregnancy. Beamish’s extensive background in strength and conditioning allows him to successfully rehabilitate injuries and transition clients from the therapy room to effective, preventative exercise programs.

MPC’s staff takes great pride in offering the latest, evidence-informed services to meet the needs and goals of each client. Whether you want to increase your overall fitness, improve your athletic performance or require physiotherapy, the highly trained experts at Movement Performance Centre are there to help you in a warm, welcoming and supportive environment.

Movement Performance Centre #7G - 785 Sir John MacDonald Blvd.

Kingston, ON 613.542.3222 info@movementperformancecentre.com movementperformancecentre.com

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30 Years of Helping Kingston Smile

By Tori Stafford Photos Suzy Lamont

T

he old adage “everyone smiles in the same language” is one that speaks to the importance of a healthy and attractive smile.

Here in Kingston, the smiles on the faces of those in the area have been important to the team at Cataraqui Dental Centre for the past 30 years – not just because a smile is a means of human communication, but because behind every great smile there is a lesson in the importance of good dental and oral health.

“We would love for everyone to fully understand the importance of oral and dental health,” says Lorrie Larock, practice

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manager at Cataraqui Dental Centre. “It is a contributing factor to your overall health in so many ways.”

This is precisely why founding partners Dr. Tom Holmes and Dr. Gordon Lansdown opened Cataraqui Dental Centre in 1985. The practice prides itself on being family-oriented and consistently offering an exemplary level of patient care. Since its inception, much has changed. The practice relocated in 2012 after being inside the Cataraqui Town Centre for 27 years and they welcomed Dr. Nick Cosman as a partner in 2014.

The practice has also seen years of progress and innovation in dental and

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oral health advancements. But one thing that has remained the same since the very beginning is the way the team at Cataraqui Dental Centre focuses on providing the most comfortable and successful experience for each patient that walks through their doors.

“Our patients are very important to us, and our patient care has always been at the forefront of why we are a successful practice,” expresses Larock. “As the practice has expanded, our team has grown to five dentists and more than 30 clinical and support staff to allow us to maintain the level of service to our patients.”

commitment to family-oriented service, and Cataraqui Dental Centre offers a room specifically for their young patients.

Brightly coloured and filled with toys and educational material for children and parents, the room helps to create a comfortable, positive experience

GivinG You Reason to smile Relocating just over two years ago gave Cataraqui Dental Centre another chance to enhance their patients’ experience.

The spacious and bright building is fully accessible and offers plenty of free parking. Patients’ oral health benefits from the centre’s state-of-the-art digital X-ray, paperless charts, intraoral camera, digital intraoral scanner, dedicated surgical suite, and patient-friendly consultation rooms.

Additionally, Cataraqui Dental Centre offers extended hours, with early morning and evening appointments available to help accommodate the busy schedules of the families they serve. This flexibility is just one more way the team works to make dental and oral healthcare accessible for their patients.

Working with children is another important aspect of the team’s

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for young patients – a crucial part of ensuring continued oral and dental health throughout life.

“The practice also serves many of the seniors in our community, with a special focus on their unique needs,” says Larock.

“For patients across the age spectrum, we stress regular visits as the key to preventing serious problems from developing,” However, early and continued check-ups and maintenance can’t prevent all issues — nor can it always prevent the phobias or fears some people associate with going to the dentist. Everyone at Cataraqui Dental Centre understands this dilemma, and works diligently to help their patients overcome any fears or obstacles to their dental care. The practice offers a number of different sedation methods, including IV sedation for those undergoing major dental surgeries or experiencing extreme anxiety.

Committed to providing the best personal care, as well as the latest advancements in dental and oral care, the team at Cataraqui Dental Centre engage in continuing education and attend industry seminars and workshops annually. The practice also offers Invisalign invisible braces, oral cancer screening, implants, crowns, bridges and dentures, periodontal care, wisdom tooth extraction, tooth whitening and root canal therapy.

“We want our patients to be happy, and we want to be able to provide the best dentistry that we are capable of providing,” says Larock. “New patients to the practice are always welcome.”

Cataraqui Dental Centre 476 Cataraqui Woods Dr. Kingston, Ont. 613.384.4224 info@cataraquidental.com www.cataraquidental.com

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Oral Health and Overall Health

Dr. Gordon Lansdown Dentist Cataraqui Dental Centre 476 Cataraqui Woods Drive Kingston 613.384.4224 info@cataraquidental.com www.cataraquidental.com

O

ral health is not only important to your appearance and sense of well-being, but also to your overall health.

It might affect or be affected by various diseases or conditions. Untreated tooth decay can be painful and lead to serious infections. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums, which may also affect the bone supporting the teeth. Plaque is a sticky, colourless film of bacteria that constantly builds up, thickens and hardens on the teeth. If it is not removed by daily brushing and flossing, this plaque can harden into tartar and may contribute to infections of the gums. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to the loss of teeth and an increased

risk of more serious conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection. This can put the gum tissues at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe with people who are diabetic. It has been suggested that diabetics with gum disease have a harder time controlling blood sugar levels.

Some studies are currently examining the link between heart disease and the inflammation and infections oral bacteria can cause. Research has shown there may be a link between poor oral health and premature birth and low birth rate babies. Poor oral health has also been linked to the initiation or progression of respiratory infections in the elderly.

Smoking is a major risk factor for oral and dental disease, including oral cancer.

Tobacco smoke is very harmful to gum

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tissues and other tissues in your mouth.

Toxins in smoke can cause oral cancer and also damage the bone around your teeth. Smoking is one of the biggest factors for gum disease and probably the biggest risk factor for oral cancer.

To maintain good oral health, you should take the following steps: • • •

•

•

Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily Eat a healthy diet Do not smoke. If you do smoke, make sure to visit your dental professional regularly If you are pregnant, be sure to eat healthy foods and maintain good oral health Visit your dental professional regularly to have your mouth examined and your teeth cleaned

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Aligning Experience and Technology to Help You Feel Better

By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

W

hen you’re experiencing pain or overcoming injury, it’s crucial to have as much information as possible on your condition and progress.

This was precisely the mandate Align Orthotics and Rehab co-owners Meghann Brunet and Maclean Graydon aimed to fulfill when they opened their doors in 2013. They wanted to offer clients precise information to help alleviate lower limb or foot pain, or overcome injury.

Align Orthotics and Rehab specializes in individualized treatment solutions.

Offering customized or thotics manufactured in-house, it’s more than a run-of-the-mill orthotics clinic. The entire staff at Align is committed to providing clients with the information and direction they need to better their mobility. Bringing together years of experience in pedorthics, kinesiology and rehabilitation science — as well as leading edge technology — Align Orthotics and Rehab offers accurate assessment and the foundation for an effective treatment plan. The only clinic in eastern Ontario to offer 3-D gait analysis, it truly is an orthotics clinic with a difference. They help clients pursue an active lifestyle, pain-free.

“We’re very proud of this system and we are excited to show people the information they can get from it,” says Brunet, gesturing toward the state-ofthe-art 3-D gait analysis system.

This technology, most commonly found in university research labs or professional sports rehabilitation centres, gives the

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most accurate analysis of a client’s gait.

The gait analysis report helps determine the best course of rehabilitation, and provides the team at Align with comprehensive information to create custom orthotics and recommend appropriate exercises. Align Orthotics and Rehab also offers ankle and knee braces to help treat and prevent issues or injuries. They also fit clients with the most stylish compression stockings.

The 3-D gait analysis allows those at Align Orthotics and Rehab to collaborate with their clients’ health practitioner and their own colleagues in the industry to give each client a more complete plan for successful rehabilitation. The gait analysis report often corroborates the physical assessments clients receive through therapists or physicians, helping to underscore the exercise prescriptions that will prove beneficial.

“We work with athletes, and a lot of runners. We also see clients who are on their feet all day and have developed overuse injuries, or who are rehabilitating after surgery,” says Brunet. “And we are providing them with information they can’t get anywhere else.”

“It’s wonderful to be able to empower our clients,” says Graydon. “By adding in the rehab and exercise components to our custom orthotic and bracing products, we are offering clients who really want to get better even more tools to do so.”

For Brunet and Graydon, both Canadian Certified Pedorthists, as well as David Deir, a registered kinesiologist and Canadian Certified Pedorthist, it’s what their clients can do with the information and products they offer at Align Orthotics and Rehab that makes their work so fulfilling.

Align Orthotics and Rehab 920 Princess Street, Kingston 613.547.2222 Info@alignkingston.com www.alignkingston.com

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SENIORS FEATURE

SHOW YOU CARE:

Finding the Right Support for the Seniors You Love

By Tori Stafford

D

eciding on care for aging parents and loved ones is never an easy undertaking, but it is critically important — perhaps now more than ever.

In mid-2014, 15.7 per cent of the Canadian population was 65 and over; or, nearly one in six Canadians were 65 plus, according to Statistics Canada. The agency suggests that by 2036, there will be more than 10 million senior citizens in the country.

Ontario had the largest senior population of all provinces and territories in 2014, and according to the provincial auditor,

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the number of those waiting for a place in a long-term care facility more than tripled from 2005 to 2012.

However, by utilizing the services and organizations available, finding the right type of care for elderly loved ones doesn’t need to be as difficult or as urgent as one might expect. Planning ahead, discussing options and ensuring your loved one’s needs and personal preferences are met, will put your mind at ease.

Most Canadian seniors either live alone, with a family member, or in retirement

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communities. Many find that home care services, accessibility implementations and community organizations help seniors with maintaining independence.

Others opt for retirement homes or communities where household chores are looked after, or care facilities catering to varying needs and lifestyles.

Regardless of the amount or type of care your loved one needs, it is necessary to discuss the options as early as possible to avoid wait times for services or availability in facilities.

Transitional Services for Seniors

With the vast number of Canadians reaching retirement age and beyond, transitional services for seniors are becoming more and more in demand.

Chris Lawson Owner Seniors on the Move 640 Cataraqui Woods Drive Kingston 613.583.5001

Such services can help you transition from the family home to your new home with the utmost care and respect — guaranteeing the transition is as seamless as possible.

WHAT DOES THIS SERVICE OFFER?

• Have experts evaluate antiques, collectibles and fine jewelry • Ensure appliances, etc. are in working order

• List and sell your current property • Assist you in finding new accommodations

• Discuss alternate options for valuable items if they do not sell

• Assist you in sorting through your belongings

• Be realistic about the value of your everyday items

• Prepare and sort unwanted items for sale and donation

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Your transition team will help and advise you before the sale with the following:

• Decide what items can be donated if they do not sell

• Clean, pack, transport, and then unpack and set-up your new home

ou’ve made the decision to downsize, or ‘right size’ your home. Now comes the process of making it happen. If you are moving into a retirement residence, a seniors’ apartment or condominium, you may need to downsize your processions, but the task of sorting, packing and disposing of a lifetime of stuff can seem overwhelming.

There are several important things for the homeowner to consider when preparing for a content or estate sale.

• Organize, advertise and complete a ‘contents’ sale on your behalf • Do a final cleaning of your family home after the sale Content or estate sales are a very practical way to eliminate items you or your family member no longer want, but it can be a complicated process during this stressful time. Transitional companies often include this as part of their service, and work closely with the homeowner to achieve the best outcome.

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All senior transitions are different, and your team will work with you to design the affordable, customized solution that’s tailor-made specifically for your family’s transitional needs. Whether you’re looking for a service that will simply facilitate the content or estate sale or handle everything throughout the process, we understand the compassion necessary to help your loved one begin the next chapter in his or her life.

As a leading provider of senior transitions in Kingston, Seniors on the Move and GreenTag work closely with our clients to develop solutions that best fit their needs.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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SENIORS FEATURE

ENJOY THE LIFE You’ve Always Dreamed of

By Trina Annand Photos Stephen Wild

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ging is a natural part of life, which is why it is important to age gracefully and live with dignity as the senior years arrive. Heather Howard saw the need for a different type of retirement residence while helping her aging mother and aunt find a home for the next stage of their lives. As a result of her experience, Heather created Fox Run by the River Retirement Residence, a place where everyone feels at home.

second choice was far from appealing.

Today, we have a different approach to aging and retirement life.

Years ago, seniors had only two choices: live at home or in a nursing home. The

Consisting of spacious one-bedroom and studio units, Fox Run has vast common

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Fox Run is a modern residence for those seeking a more carefree way of living.

Heather and her staff of 33 ensure every resident feels like family. “I wanted to create a place where I would be happy to have my mother live. It’s not enough to have qualified staff, they also need to truly care about our residents. We are more like one big family.”

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spaces with a soaring three-storey atrium featuring an indoor garden with a waterfall.

The beautiful space allows for an outdoor experience even on stormy days.

Looking down on the Saint Lawrence River and adjacent to the 1000 Islands Parkway, the residence offers an abundance of natural beauty in its country setting while only a short drive for family members and trips to Kingston.

Residents can enjoy a walk, a day of fishing and even a shopping trip. “It’s the spirit and community that makes this a great place to live. It’s a very caring

community that treats everyone with respect and reverence,” says resident Don Cummings.

Another unique feature of Fox Run is their ability to tailor their services to the level of support needed for each resident. From seniors on the go to those who require assisted living, each person gets to live their life the way they want.

As a response to these varying needs, Heather has extended the residence to include Fox Run Garden Homes for those 65 and older. These mostly single-level town homes are life leases, allowing the residents to enjoy the independence of owning their own home with the added luxury of condo-like amenities and a zeromaintenance lifestyle. The homes feature a help button tied to the main building’s medical team for emergency help. “As a senior and a single woman, it’s very important to be independent, but here I am never really alone. The personal care and attention really gives me a safe and welcome feeling. I am very proud to live here,” says Fox Run resident, Marilyn Hardy.

From the lounge and fitness room to the pool table and common kitchen, every element of Fox Run is designed with senior living in mind. With caring staff, live entertainment or guest speakers every week and group celebrations and classes, a visit to the residence will make guests wonder why they have waited so long to start the next phase of their lives.

“Support isn’t always physical. It’s nice to have company just outside your door when you need it. Fox Run allows you to enjoy more of the things you want to do and leave the ‘have to do’s’ to someone else,” says Heather. Come to Fox Run and design the rest of your life.

Fox Run by the River Retirement Residence 104 Thousand Islands Parkway Gananoque 613.382.8448 www.foxrunbytheriver.com

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PRIVATE SCHOOLS FEATURE

D o Yo u r

Homework On Your Child’s Education

By Tori Stafford

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Being a parent comes with a whole range of important decisions that can deeply affect a child’s life. Few, however, are more important than those regarding education.

S

uch education decisions can include public or private schooling, specific education focuses, and whether to include religious and/or language components.

Here in Ontario, the options within those decisions also vary, with the province boasting the highest concentration of private schools in the country. In fact, more than half of the private schools in Canada are in Ontario: the 953 registered private schools make up 50.5 per cent of those in the country, according to data collected by the Ontario Federation of Independent Schools (OFIS) in 2010.

Ontario has more than double the number of independent schools in British Columbia (the province with the next highest density), and more than three times as many as Quebec.

According to Barbara Bierman, executive director for OFIS, when it comes to deciding on a school and curriculum, the decision is not about which type of education is better, but rather which is best for your child and family.

“Parents should be encouraged to begin looking at their school choices as early as possible,” says Bierman, noting her organization has observed parents often take up to two years to choose a school.

“Parents know better than anyone what is best for their children.” Bierman says more parents are now seeing the advantages of early education down the road, when their children compete for jobs and opportunities. “Parents should do their best to match their child with learning and socialization that suits their family. When families and schools work

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together in full partnership, students are more likely to succeed and experience fulfillment in learning.”

Studies indicate private school enrollment has increased steadily since 1960, with more of Ontario’s students in private schools than ever before. There are a number of reasons parents choose private schools for their children, Bierman says, and just as many reasons this type of education can prove beneficial.

“When learning and teaching styles match, students can be far more fulfilled and successful,” she explains.

“Additionally, private schools tend to have a more personal touch — smaller classroom sizes, more parent interaction, smaller student teacher ratios — which means students’ progress can be easily and regularly monitored, and adjustments can be made quickly and effectively.”

Recognizing that every child is different, and becoming increasingly less willing to accept a one-size-fits-all option, parents want to be in the driver’s seat of their children’s education, says Bierman. To do so, parents need to do their homework the same way they encourage their own children to — a task thankfully made easier with some pointing and clicking.

“With technology being what it is, exploring and researching alternative educational models and delivery is easily done by parents,” says Bierman. “Parents should be vigorous in their school research with both public and private options. They should ask current parents about their experiences, do research online, take tours, and interview potential schools to ensure the best choice.”

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PRIVATE SCHOOLS FEATURE

LEAHURST COLLEGE : Discover the Difference

By Tori Stafford Photos Courtesy Leahurst College

“Students are the very definition of ‘untapped potential,’” says Elizabeth Turcke.

B

ecause she believes in “making a difference,” Turcke, who boasts many years of excellent teaching experience, opened Leahurst College. This school, located in Kingston’s historic Woolen Mill, inspires kind and motivated students in Grades 7 through 12.

“The students know we are here to help them – to push them just a little bit,” says Turcke, who, as well as being head of the school, devotes much of her time to her first love: teaching.

“We like to encourage our students to discover that they are capable of so much more than they believe. With caring and

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support, they are more willing to meet difficult challenges. It is remarkable and so rewarding to see our students achieve success, and surpass their own expectations.”

Leahurst College opened its doors in September 2013 with just seven Grade 9 students. Today, more than 30 students in Grades 7, 8, 9 and 10 attend the school.

Leahurst is a place where strong academic achievement, fun and engaging learning are of paramount importance to Turcke and her dedicated team of faculty and staff. Students begin at Leahurst in Grade 7, where they are immediately challenged to take on some Grade 8 course content

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— a practice that carries over to Grade 8, where students earn four Grade 9 credits: math, science, computers and geography.

“The overall goal of this plan is to spread the high school course load over four and a half years, thereby reducing stress on the students while improving their academic performance in the senior grades,” Turcke explains.

With more than 20 years of experience as a secondary school teacher, Turcke recognizes how important it is for students to think critically, develop problem-solving skills, and absorb a variety of subject matter as they

prepare for the world of post-secondary education. As a result, Leahurst College values strong programming in math and science, English, French, art, music and drama, as well as a firm grounding in social science, and physical and outdoor education.

Additionally, students enjoy small class sizes. A daily dedicated study period, where students have access to all of their teachers, ensures the individual attention required to keep everyone on track. Moreover, because the teachers are involved with the students from Grades 7 to 12, there is a consistency

and comfort level that students rarely experience in a traditional school setting.

As Leahurst continues to expand, welcoming some international students later this year, the commitment to the core values of a rich and diverse learning environment dedicated to student enrichment will remain the same Turcke expresses.

“Leahurst has great students, wonderful families and inspiring teachers…we strive for a really good balance in all aspects of education,” she says, noting this includes

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using state-of-the-art technology, staying active and getting outdoors, and a very well-rounded curriculum.

“We make decisions based on what the kids need, making sure that while they are learning, they are having fun, they are engaged, and they are well-prepared for the future.”

Leahurst College 4 Cataraqui Street Kingston, Ont. 613.893.0958 www.leahurstcollege.ca

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PRIVATE SCHOOLS FEATURE

Free Your Child’s Potential at Great Oak Montessori School

By Katrina Geenevasen Photos Lauren Kaufmann

M

aria Montessori once said, “Do not tell them how to do it.

Show them how to do it and do not say a word. If you tell them, they will watch your lips move. If you show them, they will want to do it themselves.” It is under this philosophy Kingston’s Great Oak Montessori was founded.

Newly opened this year, Great Oak Montessori owner and founder Lindsay Rymerson created the Kingston-east bilingual school to help children — who crave independence — to thrive in a

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nourishing environment designed just for them. “Our goal is to make children gain self-esteem and confidence, and encourage their independence,” the mother of five explains. “We help them learn how to do things for themselves on a day-to-day basis. They want to be able to do things for themselves; they are so independent.”

The quality of programming at Great Oak Montessori speaks for itself. “Our mission is to allow children to develop their life skills in a loving and nurturing

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environment,” says Rymerson, explaining that Great Oak children are shown an appreciation and respect for nature, and given the time to develop an indepth understanding of all educational areas, including science, mathematics, geography, cultural studies, sensorial, practical life, language, art and music.

The Kingston-east school, located within a historic home built in the early 1800s and surrounded by lush greenery, also places a large emphasis on local organic food. An onsite chef ensures children

enjoy a variety of healthy foods each day.

“We’re going back to real, whole foods,” says Rymerson, explaining no foods with refined sugar or dyes are served.

“Nutrition is an essential part of preparing the child to learn at their full potential.

If a child starts off eating a wholesome breakfast and a healthy lunch, their learning potential is increased.”

Great Oak teaching staff — most often thought of more as “guides” who allow children to steer their own learning — are loyal to the Montessori method.

They undergo regular training and skills upgrading in order to provide a continually interesting and engaging education for Montessori children. “It’s such a gentle and nurturing approach,” says Rymerson. “I think parents will feel very secure knowing their child is loved.

Their child will feel warmth throughout the day; it’s a nurturing relationship.”

The learning continues year-round, explains Rymerson, as to not interfere with the children’s progress. This means Great Oak does not have an extended summer vacation, but instead, takes breaks throughout the year at Christmas, in March and during the summer. In the long run, this reduces students’ anxiety, explains Rymerson.

With a variety of programs available, parents are sure to find one that suits their family. The Nido program caters to Great Oak’s youngest students (birth to 18 months). The Young Children’s Community preps students (aged 18 months to 3 years) for the Casa program, which is Great Oak’s preschool program. There are also lower and upper elementary options, as well as a P.D. Day program, before-school/ after-school options and summer camps for all children in the community. Private lessons and enrichment programming are also available.

Each child should have an equal opportunity to excel,” says Rymerson. “If they don’t have the right environment, they won’t have the opportunity to do their best.”

RIGHT Patricia Ouellet, Zyeleika McTague, Mike Klaassen, Lindsay Rymerson, Lesley Jardine

Great Oak Montessori School 1292 Highway 15, Kingston info@greatoakmontessori.com www.greatoakmontessori.com

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ARTS DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

The BEST WINES For

SPRING DRINKING

By Kim Meathrel

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ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

If you like oaked Chardonnay (California style) then you must try one of my personal favourites and branch out to a South African Chenin Blanc. Chenin Blanc is the white grape of the Vouvray region of the Loire Valley in France.

Chenin Blanc was imported to South Africa and has now become the white grape of the region. Known locally as Steen, the South African Chenin Blancs are oaked and barrel fermented, much like California Chardonnays, leading to a toasty flavour and extra body. Given they are much less known than the California Chardonnays, you can often find a very good quality South African Chenin Blanc for an excellent price.

ABOVE Sommelier Kim Meathrel Photo by Suzy Lamont

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pring is here, a time for new beginnings. Why not add to the new you by expanding your wine horizons? I have picked some of my favourite, lesser-known varietals for you to explore this season.

I am a big fan of Austrian wines. The cool growing conditions mean grapes take longer to ripen and have time to develop more complex flavours. They also develop less sugar and retain more acid, leading to wines with less jammy flavours and more layers of spice and earth. Two of my favourite Austrian varieties are Grüner Veltliner and Zweigelt.

If you like Sauvignon Blanc, try a Grüner Veltliner. It is one of the most commonly grown grape varietals in Austria. It is usually unoaked and sold relatively young.

It has similar flavours to a Sauvignon Blanc with green, vegetal flavours, white pepper, and mineral/earthy notes.

Because it is grown in a cool climate, it has a very crisp and refreshing acidity.

An older Grüner Veltliner may have some honey and toast notes. Zweigelt makes a lovely alternative to Pinot Noir. It’s a light to moderately tannic red wine with aromas and flavours of cherries and black currants and is usually lightly oaked.

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Most people think of Malbec when they think of Argentinian wines, but until recently, the most widely planted grape variety in Argentina was Bonarda.

Imported to Argentina from Italy, Bonarda can produce a beautiful, light-bodied red wine with light tannins and complex cherry and plum flavours — not unlike a Pinot Noir. When made from old vines and aged in oak, Bonarda can produce a deeply coloured, tannic and fruity jammy red wine similar to a California Cabernet Sauvignon.

If you like your reds big, deep, earthy and a little bit dirty, like Barolo or Northern Côtes du Rhône, you should try a Xinomavro from Greece. Xinomavro is a tawny, brownish colour and is deeply tannic.

It is very earthy with complex layers of spice and very little fruit flavours. The Greek wine industry is in a revolution. For many years, they have focussed on mass production of cheap, poor quality wines and had no reputation on the international wine markets. The new generation of Greek winemakers is focused on creating quality, complex wines and modernizing the winemaking techniques. It’s important to note the Greek wines can be hit or miss because there’s no formal system establishing for quality rankings.

Cheers!

Kim Meathrel is a sommelier and the owner of Decantress Wines and Spirits

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A Veritable Candy Land in Downtown Kingston

By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

I

f an apple a day keeps the doctor away, Ashley Gerberg certainly offers a way to make those apples tasty and fun to eat.

The owner and operator of The Sweet ReTreat on Wellington Street, Gerberg’s business of creating handmade confections and innovative candies all started with her flagship creations known for bringing out the kid in anyone: candy apples.

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Inside her boutique-style candy store, which opened in early February, Gerberg explains how the business came to be.

“I used to make candy apples with my mom. She was more into making cupcakes and things like that, and I really loved making the candy apples. We experimented with all kinds of flavours and combinations, and we started doing this out of our home,” says Gerberg, who recently relocated to Kingston from Barrie, Ont. “When I got to Kingston, I made some

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

candy apples for some of my husband’s colleagues. They really loved them, and that’s when I realized that Kingston really needed a candy shop like this!”

Indeed, The Sweet ReTreat is unlike any other candy store or bakery in Kingston.

Gerberg offers a huge assortment of candy apples, which include chocolate and caramel covered varieties as well, and come in flavours such as ‘I Am A Gummy Bear,’ ‘Cheesecake,’ and one called ‘The Mountain,’ which is based with

ABOVE Ashley Gerberg, owner

keep them on the shelves! People seem to love the idea.”

With the ability to make chocolate and hard candy in seemingly endless possibilities of flavour and colour combinations, The Sweet ReTreat can help make weddings, parties, corporate events and celebrations a little sweeter.

Gift baskets are also available and customizable — ideal for housewarming gifts, client appreciation, or a special treat for friends and family.

caramel and topped with marshmallows, rice crisps, peanuts, chocolate chips, peanut butter, milk chocolate and white chocolate. They are all made in-house using a traditional copper candy pot, and Gerberg works with clients to create custom flavour and colour combinations for all kinds of special events or parties.

But the array of sweet treats inside the small storefront doesn’t end there. Gerberg also offers a selection of handmade hard candy, a mélange of homemade fudge, and

sumptuous Vermont truffles. The sweet, intoxicating aroma of rich chocolate that lingers in the air comes from a massive chocolate tempering machine, where Gerberg hand-dips a number of chocolatecovered goodies. From pretzels, potato chips and liquorice, to marshmallows, strawberries and jalapenos, The Sweet ReTreat is a chocolate-covered heaven for foodies and sweet tooths alike.

“The chocolate covered jalapenos have been a huge hit,” Gerberg says. “We can’t

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“We also do custom candy apples, which are a lot of fun,” Gerberg explains, noting she’s created soccer ball or animated movie character candy apples for clients.

“The possibilities are endless, really.

We can work with any theme to make something really special for just about any event.”

It’s worth stopping into the downtown confectionery just to take in the beautiful works of decadent, edible art displayed like jewelry in the historic limestone just off Princess Street, next door to The Iron Duke. The tempting treats are sure to make anyone feel like a kid in candy store.

The Sweet ReTreat 207 Wellington St. Kingston, Ont. 613.929.8902 /ashleysweetretreat

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An Afternoon of

Russian Romantics

By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

A

s the cold and dark of winter melts away to reveal the spring, an undeniable sense of romance is in the air. What better time is there to take in the works of three classical Russian romantic composers?

The next concert the Kingston Symphony has planned is one that suits the season beautifully, with three works from Russian composers, each unique, yet each full of life, emotion and a distinctly Russian flavour. “One of the things I really love about Russian composers is they think big — not just big orchestras, colours and sounds, but big in everything...even in the very intimate moments of the pieces, there is still something big about it, and that's why you have that special flavour from Russian composers,” says Evan Mitchell, director of the Kingston Symphony.

On Sunday, March 1, the Kingston Symphony will take the stage of The Grand Theatre for an afternoon with

Russian composers. Beginning with Borodin's famed Polovtsian Dances, the program promises a taste of the magic and whimsy often associated with the works of Russian romantics, Mitchell says, and will also feature young piano superstar Avan Yu during Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini by Rachmaninoff.

The program will close with Symphony No. 6: The Pathétique, the final symphony composed by Tchaikovsky. But the end of the program is far from the end of the 2014-2015 concert season for the Kingston Symphony. “We get excited about all of our performances here at the Kingston Symphony Orchestra,” Mitchell says, noting there are a number of different shows to come with exciting programs and special guests. “There are definitely still a number of concerts to look forward to.”

To find out more about this and other upcoming concerts, visit www.kingstonsymphony.on.ca.

ABOVE Avan Yu, photo: Daniel Hartley-Allen BELOW Evan Mitchell

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THE KINGSTON SYMPHONY PRESENTS

LIVE MUSIC FOR ALL AGES O’CALLAGHAN SINGS COHEN March 28, 2015 | 7:30 p.m.

Grand Theatre Internationally renowned soprano Patricia O’Callaghan joins us for an evening of music by Leonard Cohen, Edith Piaf, and others.

SHOSTAKOVICH & SCHUBERT April 12, 2015 | 2:30 p.m.

The Isabel Hear Schubert’s majestic last symphony along with Shostakovich’s first cello concerto performed by Canadian cellist Denise Djokic.

HOWARD CABLE’S BIG BAND HITS April 25, 2015 | 7:30 p.m.

Grand Theatre Canadian legend, Howard Cable presents an evening of the greatest Big Band hits.

Experience the music of Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Duke Ellington, and more!

Tickets can be purchased at the Grand Theatre Box Office, by calling (613) 530-2050 or by visiting www.kingstonsymphony.on.ca.

For a complete listing of concerts please visit us online or call (613) 546-9729.

MARCH 14 Preservation Hall Jazz Band The Grand Theatre MARCH 21 An Evening With Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder The Grand Theatre

events KINGSTON

SPRING 2015

APRIL 11 National Chinese Acrobats The Grand Theatre

APRIL 14 The Tragically Hip Rogers K-Rock Centre APRIL 16 The Klezmatics with Special Guest Joshua Nelson: “Brother Moses Smote the Water” The Grand Theatre APRIL 18 Just for Laughs The Grand Theatre APRIL 24 The Blues Hall of Fame Tour Featuring: Charlie Musselwhite, James Cotton & John Hammond The Grand Theatre MAY 2 Canada’s Ballet Jörgen Presents Cinderella The Grand Theatre MAY 3 Melos Choir and Period Instruments: Maestri di Venezia St. George’s Cathedral MAY 6 Dress for Success Kingston: Bring on the Bling!

The Ambassador Hotel and Conference Centre MAY 27 Kingston Symphony Orchestra Presents Spring Spectacular Chalmers United Church JUNE 4-20 Caught in The Net The Domino Theatre

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Fare

savo i r

F e at u r in g so me o F K in g ston’s top restaurants and eateri es

By Tori Stafford

In a city like Kingston — known for its rich, eclectic array of fabulous restaurants and extravagant fare — it’s difficult for anyone to choose a favourite.

The fact that there are so many places to choose from is perhaps one of the greatest aspects of living in this city. It’s easy to source

food and there are a variety of restaurants that cater to different dietary needs and palate preferences.

As the spring melts away the cold, Fine Lifestyles Kingston has compiled the details on some of the city’s favourite eateries and stores to give you a taste of how delicious the Limestone City truly is.

Table of ConTenTs NAME of BUSINESS

PAGE

NAME of BUSINESS

PAGE

1. The Merchant Tap House ...........................................64

7. Dianne’s .............................................................................. 78

2. The River Mill .................................................................... 68

8. Days on Front .................................................................. 79

3. Bob’s Butcher Shop .......................................................72

9. LA Bob’s Smokehouse ................................................80

4. The Sweet ReTreat .........................................................75

10. Windmills ............................................................................ 81

5. Olivea ................................................................................... 76

11. Tait’s Bakery ..................................................................... 82

6. Bella Bistro ........................................................................ 77

12. The Waterfront River Pub & Terrace .................... 83

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The MerchanT

Kingston

Good Food and Good Times Come Together at The Merchant Tap House You only need one bite of The Merchant Tap House’s famed 40 Creek Whiskey Burger to see what all the fuss is about. Nestled on Kingston’s waterfront, it’s no surprise this neighbourhood-style pub has become known as a Limestone City go-to for its gastronomic goodness that’s homemade and delicious.

Featuring “pub-centric” fare, as defined by talented head chef Jessica Burns, The Merchant Tap House boasts a diverse menu. “We have always had good food here, in my mind,” says owner Dave McNamara. “But Jessica has taken it to a whole other level. It’s fresh and it’s homemade. It changes you; you can taste the difference.”

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“Quality is really important to me,” says Burns. “It’s my name on the line. I’m not a celebrity chef in Kingston, but I pride myself on good, homemade food.”

With its wooden-topped tables, exposed stone walls and ancient ceiling beams, The Merchant Tap House radiates historical charm. Such charm only enhances the overall experience.

“This building speaks for itself,” says McNamara. “It’s a big part of Kingston.”

A father of one who has owned and operated restaurants and pubs for more than 15 years, McNamara didn’t plan on falling in love with Kingston when he came here 10 years ago. The city is “perfect,” he says, and it’s why he’s so passionate about the pub’s community involvement. “My doors are always open. You’re not going to find many people I say no to.”

For good, simple food and top-notch service, look no further than The Merchant Tap House. “We’ve got the spot, we try to give good quality food and we give you respect,” says McNamara.

“For the people of Kingston, it’s their local neighbourhood pub.”

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The MerchanT

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SAMPLE MENU SELECTIONS Enjoy this sampling of delicious items from our extensive menu Appetizers

MAins

Mac and cheese poppers

Taphouse Tacos

Smokehouse beef sliders

Merchants Wares

Creamy mac and cheese poppers spiked with jalape単o and deep fried to gooey perfection, served with chipotle ketchup

Smoky all-beef sliders topped with real cheddar, tomato, dill pickle and red onion, finished off with garlic aioli and beet chips

Barbecue brisket flatbread

Tender beef brisket and 40 creek sauce atop flatbread paired with red onion, portobello, smoked cheddar and finished with avocado cream

These Santa Fe pulled pork are the best!

Served with pickled cabbage, cilantro lime cream and beer battered avocado

A tender root beer braised beef short rib served on our homemade garlic mash with grilled fennel and carrots

6 Princess Street Kingston 613.547.1313 www.merchanttaphouse.com

Taphouse Chicken and Dumplings

Tender smoked chicken and hearty vegetable chunks in a creamy southern inspired sauce with handmade dumplings! sAlAds

sAndwiches

Atomic Reuben

A monster bite sandwich with steamy Montreal smoked meat, sauerkraut and Swiss cheese with our housemade Reuben sauce on fresh pumpernickel rye

Pretzel chicken club

A crunchy pretzel breaded chicken breast with the usual toppings, bacon, zesty honey mustard sauce and smoked cheddar on sliced rye bread

The Wedge

A crisp iceberg wedge drizzled with poppyseed dressing, crisp proscuitto, apple slaw and crumbled blue cheese. A fresh indulgence! dessert Our signature chocolate and peanut butter perogie, served with ice cream and peanut butter candy pieces, is not to be missed.

OPPOSITE PAGE Dave McNamara, owner, wife Becky and son Brayden ABOVE Jessica Burns, head chef, and Cassandra Madden ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

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The RiveR Mill

Kingston

A Kingston Classic for 30 years In a city like Kingston, with such a rich and diverse selection of eateries and restaurants, few have stood the test of time as long as The River Mill.

What opened in 1985 in the historic Woolen Mill building along the banks of the Great Cataraqui River remains as one of the city’s favoured fine dining establishments. While the restaurant maintains the heritage of the building, the dining experience itself is far from obsolete thanks to the continually updated menu of locally-sourced ingredients, and a new breath of life that’s come in the form of executive chef Gurkan Soyic, says owner Colin Altimas.

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With a flair for bringing together bright, fresh flavours using as many locallysourced ingredients as possible, Soyic has maintained The River Mill’s classic French and Mediterranean inspired menu and enhanced it with new items certain to excite and tempt diners with even the most discerning palates. “There are a lot of things on our menu that aren’t on any other menu in Kingston,” Altimas says.

Combining the beautiful setting, stunning interior and the skilfully crafted menus the kitchen will customdesign with clients makes The River Mill an easy choice for many events and celebrations; their main dining room is able to seat up to 100 guests, and their private room up to 36.

As the restaurant reaches the milestone of 30 years in the business of fine dining, they are celebrating with an anniversary three-course table d’hote special for $30, available now until April 10.

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The RiveR Mill

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Kingston

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SAMPLE MENU SELECTIONS Enjoy this sampling of delicious items from our extensive menu Small PlateS

Grilled Shrimp

harissa, avocado, chorizo, radishes – 14

Warm Buffalo Mozzarella

olive, sun-dried tomato, pine nut & roasted pepper tapenade, salsa verde - 12

Escargots

black garlic, mushrooms, farro, parsley, celery leaves, red wine demi – 13

Duck Confit

roasted mushrooms, cippolini onion, fried duck egg, shaved foie gras, quince, frisée – 16/28

Pan-Seared Scallops

French Onion Soup

vidalia onions, croutons, Gruyère – 8

Caesar Salad

romaine hearts, croutons & bacon, Romano cheese – 8/12

Caesar For Two

prepared tableside for evening service only – 26 large PlateS

House Made Ricotta Gnocchi

braised oxtail, mushrooms, pecorino romano – 21

Sea Bass

parsnip velouté, roasted mushrooms, thyme, double smoked bacon - 16/26

roasted celeriac, artichokes, rapini, green olive, arugula, pickled vegetables, anchovy tomato sauce - 28

Beef Tartare

Grilled Beef Tenderloin

hand chopped beef tenderloin, crostini, pickled quail egg, olive tapenade, housepickled vegetables – 14

Escabeche of Seafood

chorizo, olive & tomato vinaigrette, white anchovy, salsa verde - 14

Local Cheeses

barely blue, walnuts, soft chèvre, pear, fleur-en-lait, quince preserve – 16 SaladS & SouPS

Soup of the day – 6

the river mill restaurant

cippolini onion, mushrooms, braised spinach, rapini, potato & truffle purée, red wine demi - 32

Braised Ontario Lamb Shank

2 Cataraqui Street Kingston 613.549.5759 rivermill@kingston.net www.rivermill.ca Lunch: Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Dinner: Monday – Friday 5:00pm Dinner: Saturday 5:00pm Closed: Sunday

moroccan style vegetables, cassoulet, preserved lemon, harissa – 27

Provimi Liver

potato purée, rapini, cippolini onion, apple balsamic demi-glace – 23 Please advise your server of any food allergies - HST is not included

OPPOSITE PAGE Dave McNamara, owner, wife Becky and son Brayden ABOVE Jessica Burns, head chef, and Cassandra Madden ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

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BoB’s Butcher shop

Kingston

A Cut Above Archie and Bob Neocleous started working in a local deli when they were just 13 years old. The brothers loved everything about the work, and 10 years ago, they decided to open the first Bob’s Butcher Shop in the Reddendale Plaza. They now own two successful butcher shops in Kingston.

Bob’s Butcher Shop offers a variety of meats, a wide selection of local and European cheeses, and more than 30 types of condiments. They only sell Canadian meat, and everything is cut to order. Their very own “Bobby” burger is named for the store and is made with 100 per cent Alberta beef with no filler.

According to Archie, it’s the “best burger in the world.” They also have homemade sausages with more than 20 flavour choices.

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One of their specialties is ready-to-heat meals prepared in-house. Both locations have fresh produce when it’s in season, as well.

Bob and Archie love getting to know their customers and they keep their prices as low as possible on the best products.

And unlike many butchers or delis, Bob’s Butcher offers their customers refunds if they aren’t satisfied with the food. “When people ask about the beef, I always just tell them to try it. If you don’t like it, you get your money back,” says Bob. BELOW L–R Archie and Bob Neocleous

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BoB’s Butcher shop

Kingston

SAMPLE MENU SELECTIONS

BoB’s

Bob’s Butcher Shop Menu AAA Steaks: • • • • • • •

Chateaubriand T-Bone Steaks Striploin Steaks Top Sirloins Porterhouse Steaks Crosscut Grilling Steaks Steamboats Steaks* Marinated in their Three Peppercorn Sauce

AAA Roasts: • • • • • •

Prime Rib Roast Ribeye Roast Rump Roast Short Rib Roast Crosscut Roast Stuffed Beef Roast with Bob’s Famous Stuffing

Pork: • • • • • • •

Pork Chops Pork Schnitzels Pork Cutlets Butterfly Chops Honey Garlic Chops Sweet Curry Chops Stuffed Pork Chops

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Chicken: • • • • •

Chicken Breast Chicken Legs Chicken Thighs Whole Chickens Chicken Wings

ButcHeR SHoP

• • • •

Scallops Shrimp Veggie Potato

Specialty Items:

• Lamb • Goat • Ox Tail • Chicken Cordon Bleu stuffed with ham & Swiss • Pork Belly • Chicken Kiev stuffed with • Beef Tongue mozzarella, garlic butter & chives Heat-and-Serve items • Chicken Florentine made on the premises: stuffed with spinach, • Steak & Mushroom Pies ricotta & feta • Chicken Pies • Chicken Supreme stuffed • Steak and Kidney Pies with ham, bacon & • Pasticho Mousaka cheddar stuffing • Lasagna • Hicken — whole • Meatballs boneless chicken stuffed • Macaroni and Cheese with a ham, bacon & • Twice Baked Potatoes cheddar stuffing • Stuffed Peppers • Stuffed Grapevine Leaves Kabobs: • Shepherd’s Pie • Beef • Cooked Ribs (Beef & Pork) • Pork • Cooked Wings • Chicken Specialty items can be • Lamb • Turkey ordered.

Stuffed Chickens:

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

730 Front Road Kingston 613.634.1262 2808 Princess Street Kingston 613.766.1262 Business Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 6:30pm Saturday 9am – 6pm Sunday 10am - 5pm

THE SWEET RETREAT

Kingston

Handmade Confections in the Heart of Kingston Opening the doors at The Sweet ReTreat instantly awakens the senses, as colourful creations catch the eye and mouth-watering aromas tempt the palate.

New to Kingston’s bustling downtown core, it’s a candy store and bakery like no other in the city. Specializing in handmade candy apples in a stunning assortment of flavour combinations, The Sweet ReTreat also offers fine Vermont truffles and handmade hard candy, fudge and chocolate-dipped delicacies. With an array of colours in chocolate and hard candy, the possibilities for customized confections are never ending, and an ideal way to sweeten any event, celebration or stroll downtown.

Candy appleS: Red Candy Swirl He Shoots He Skors Apple Crisp Crunchy Smores Cheese Cake Peanut Blast

TRuffleS: Mint Amaretto Vanilla Cappuccino Tiramisu Irish Cream

Handmade HaRd Candy: Banana Cream Watermelon Root Beer Blueberry Green Apple Pineapple

fudge:

Skornado Madagascar Vanilla

Ashley Gerberg, owner

Strawberry Cheesecake Rocky Road Belgian Chocolate Cookies & Cream

OTHeR CHOCOlaTe dipped: Marshmallows Jalapeños Strawberries Sour Keys Liquorish Popcorn Pretzels

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

/ashleysweetretreat The Sweet ReTreat 207 Wellington Street Kingston 613.929.89024 Monday: Closed Tuesday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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Olivea

Kingston

Olivea: Authentic Italian in Downtown Kingston Alongside the cobblestone streets, and overlooking the bustling market, it is fitting that Olivea offers up fresh, housemade Italian trattoria-style cuisine in downtown Kingston.

Authentic Italian cuisine, with a contemporary flair, pairs beautifully with this view of the historic downtown core, as well as the selection of fine wines and spirits available in this family-run restaurant. Known for making fresh pasta, gnocchi, sauces and desserts with as many locally-sourced ingredients as possible, Olivea is ideal for lunch and dinner. From their live jazz nights every Tuesday to an array of special events throughout the year, Olivea is a Kingston favourite, offering a taste of Italy in the heart of the city.

AntIpAstI

pAstAs & rIsOttO

Panelle - Sicilian chickpea fritters Beef Carpaccio - with truffle aïoli Arancine - fried risotto croquettes Truffled Frites - with shaved parmesan Calamari Fritti

Featuring fresh pasta made in house.

All pastas can be made gluten free.

AntIpAstI BOArDs Featuring Ontario cured meats and artisan cheeses, Italian prosciutto, salami and cheeses with marinated olives and Italian condimenti.

sAlADs Pear, gorgonzola and walnut salad Roast chicken, fig and hazelnut salad Olivea Caesar Arugula salad with shaved parmesan Insalata Verde

Burgers AnD sAnDwIches Olivea Burger - local Enright Cattle Co. beef, Wilton cheddar, Seed to Sausage bacon and tomato chutney on a Pan Chancho bun Sicilian Tuna sandwich - Italian tuna, artichokes, olives and capers Chicken Provolone Panino - with pesto and roasted peppers

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Bolognese - traditional meat ragù Orecchiette - with sausage and rapini Lasagne al Forno Gnocchi - with beef cheek ragù Garganelli - with crispy chicken leg Aglio Olio - with grilled shrimp Seafood Linguine Mushroom Risotto House made seasonal ravioli

BuIlD yOur Own pAstA Choose your sauce, pasta and finish with grilled chicken breast, Italian sausage, shrimp, meatballs or rapini

MAIns: Chicken al Mattone - chicken breast grilled under a brick Grilled Steak Aglio Olio - from local Enright Cattle Co. beef Chicken Parmigiana - the classic Ligurian Seafood Stew

DOlcI: Tiramisù, Sicilian Cannoli, Crème Brûlée

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

www.olivea.ca 39 Brock Street Kingston ON info@olivea.ca oliveakingston olivearestaurant 613.547.5483 Open seven days a week.

Operating hours change seasonally.

Check their website for details.

Tuesday nights live jazz Pasta Sunday Street side patio open May to October

BELLA BISTRO

Kingston

Local Fare with Worldly Flair at Bella Bistro Sitting on the banks of Collins Bay in Kingston’s west end, Bella Bistro is a friendly neighbourhood bistro that brings family dining to a whole new level.

Known for their pizza, pasta and paninis, all made in-house, Bella Bistro is also the place diners go for an impressive array of daily specials.

From fresh fish flown in overnight, to international flavours that tempt the taste buds, owners and chefs, Kevin Lapeer and Paul Muller, continually complement their menu favourites with something new. And with a strong emphasis on using local ingredients whenever possible, lunch and dinner at Bella Bistro is always fresh and exciting.

APPETIZERS

MAIN ENTREES

Sicilian Arancine - Crispy fried risotto balls breaded and stuffed with mushrooms and cheese.

Steak Frites - Grilled 8 oz flat iron steak with fresh cut frites and parsley butter.

East Coast Mussels - With choice of sauce served with frites or side house green salad and sliced ciabatta.

Thai Coconut Curry Chicken - Chicken breast cooked in Thai red curry sauce served with jasmine rice and seasonal vegetables.

SALADS Insalata Caprino - Warm pistachio crusted goat cheese on a bed of field greens with shallot vinaigrette.

Local Beet And Arugula Salad - Beet, quinoa and arugula salad with pumpkin seeds and a maple vinaigrette.

PANINI AND HOT SANDWICHES Bella - Chicken Breast, pesto, roasted red pepper and provolone.

The Big Italian - Prosciutto, salami, cappocollo, calabrese, roasted peppers, olives, capers and provolone.

PIZZA Margherita - Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella bocconcini and basil leaves.

Funghi - Oyster, shiitake and cremini mushrooms, sweet onions, potato, fontina and truffle oil.

PASTA Spaghetti Aglio Olio With Grilled Shrimp - with garlic, chilies, olive oil and arugula.

Featuring a nightly, ever-changing culturally diverse “specials” menu.

Some highlights include: Caramelized Maple Cauliflower Veggie Burger - Lemon pepper aioli, crispy onions, arugula.

Peppercorn Crusted Pan Seared Ocean Scallops - Local leek and horseradish white wine cream, wilted kale kohlrabi dice and mixed rainbow carrots, local Yukon potato mustard cream mash, parsnip chips.

Maple Bombay Wild Salmon - With saffron rice and toasted cashews.

Vietnamese Style “Pok Pok” Wings - Sweet spicy salty, Nuoc Chum dipping sauce, fresh cilantro.

Beef Short Rib - Pink peppercorn and hoisin jus, crispy onions, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, heirloom vegetables.

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Owners Paul Muller and Kevin Lapeer

www.bellabistro.ca 4050 Bath Road Kingston ON bellabistro@cogeco.net 613.634.4050 Sun - Wed: 11:30 am - 8pm Thurs - Sat: 11:30 am - 9pm

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DIANNE’S

Kingston

Dianne’s Fish Shack & Smokehouse — Not just for Seafood Lovers!

Just steps from the waterfront a classic east coast kitchen meets the flavours of Baja Mexico! Think lobster rolls, fish n’ chips, oysters & fish chowder along with guacamole, tacos, nachos & ceviche. New on Dianne’s menu are in-house naturally

smoked meats. From the smokehouse, barbecue with a Mexican twist: smoked pulled pork ‘carnitas’, chicken ‘tinga’ and beef brisket ‘xocolatl’, served on sandwiches, platters & tacos. Plus savoury grilled steaks, burgers, fried chicken, salads, sandwiches and more. From the bar: ice cold craft beer and local wines on tap. Premium whiskies and tequilas, refreshing cocktails and the city’s best fresh-squeezed lime margaritas.

All served in a casual, fun and vibrant atmosphere. Take-out, children’s menu, vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available. Below is just a sample of the many dishes on Dianne’s menu.

Dianne’s Down east Fish ChowDeR haddock, potatoes, bacon, cream Fiesta naChos cheddar, jalapeños, beans, green olives, pico de gallo, sour cream tequila shRimp sautéed jumbo shrimp, tomato, garlic, citrus juices, tequila Baja Fish taCos beer battered or pan-seared Alaskan pacific cod, guacamole, chipotle crema, pickled red cabbage smokeD pulleD poRk ‘CaRnitas’ taCos guacamole, tomatillo salsa verde, pickled onions Fish & Chips beer-battered, line-caught BC halibut, house tartar, fries & slaw suRF & tuRF grilled l0oz chili-rubbed, ‘certified black angus reserve’, new york strip steak, blackened jumbo shrimp, cilantro pesto butter

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RoasteD BC soCkeye salmon smoked bacon-poblano cream corn CFC cholua fried chicken, pickled vegetables, poblano ranch

SMokehouSe PLaTTerS

All meats are naturally smoked in-house with our bourbon soaked oak & applewood blend, served with corn or flour tortillas, house slaw, BBQ beans & fries ‘BlaCk angus’ BeeF BRisket ‘XoColatl’ glazed w/ cocoa-coffee BBQ sauce ChiCken ‘tinga’ grain-fed chicken, pulled & tossed with a tangy tomato-chipotle-citrus sauce

DeSSerT waRm ‘hello Dolly’ squaRe w/ vanilla ice cream

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

dianneskingston.com 195 Ontario Street Kingston 613.507.3474 Open daily at 11:30 a.m. for lunch and diner

DAYS ON FRONT

Kingston

A West-end Dining Experience Like No Other When celebrated restauranteur Matt Day decided to open a new restaurant in his native Kingston, he knew exactly where it needed to be. Filling a long-standing void for upscale dining in the city’s west end, Days On Front opened in 2012, offering contemporary Canadian cuisine with an urban flair. With a strong emphasis on using as many locally-sourced ingredients possible, Day — along with chef and partner, Jay Legere — created a dining experience for both lunch and dinner unlike any other. From sharing plates with friends over cocktails to romantic dining for couples, the only thing better than the atmosphere at Days On Front is the exceptional food that keeps Kingstonians coming back time and again.

APPETIZERS Scallops {G}

seared scallops + leek & brown butter puree + bacon jam + pine nuts

Polenta Fries {V} crispy polenta + vegetable ratatouille + tomato sauce + goat feta + dried black olives + EVOO

Cauliflower Soup {V}{G}

cauliflower + white bean + thyme + truffle oil

Wild Boar Sausage

wild boar & cranberry sausage + bacon braised cabbage + apple mayo

Crab Risotto Cakes

blue crab + arborio rice + peas + parmesan + basil mayo + dressed greens

SALADS Warm Salad {G}

wilted spinach & arugula + mushrooms + bacon + pickled onions + goat cheese + sherry vinaigrette

MAIN COURSES Beef Short Rib {G}

12oz boneless short rib + roasted garlic mash + green beans + bordelaise sauce

Duck Breast seared rare + barley, cranberry & parmesan risotto + pea shoot & apple salad + porcini cream

Chicken

seared chicken supreme + leek & gruyere bread pudding + chorizo cream sauce + glazed carrots

Pork Tenderloin {G}

truffle white bean puree + bacon lardons + roasted yukon gold + baby spinach + rosemary cream

Wild Salmon {G}

Jay Legere , chef Matt Day, owner

wild salmon + beet & french bean salad + vanilla cream fraiche + basil jasmine rice + balsamic gastrique

Root Vegetable Lasagna {V}{G}

leek & goat cheese cream sauce + toasted almonds + green beans

DESSERTS Quadruple Chocolate Cheesecake

milk & white chocolate cheesecake + dark chocolate ganache + chocolate crumb + raspberry coulis {V} = VEGETARIAN {G} = GLUTEN FREE

www.daysonfront.com 730 Front Road Kingston 613.766.9000 Monday to Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to midnight Sunday: Closed info@daysonfront.com

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

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L.A. BoB’s southwest smokehouse

kingston

1759 Bath Road Kingston 613.634.1833 www.labobs.com Monday – Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Sundays Closed

A Southwestern-Californian Flavour in Kingston’s West End The smoky aromas of southwestern barbecue mingle with the bright flavours of Mexican cuisine at L.A. Bob’s Southwest Smokehouse — offering Kingstonians an authentic taste of south meets west.

With crowd-pleasers like brisket, pulled-pork and their famous burritos, L.A. Bob’s dine-in, take-out and catering options have won over diners for the past three years — and show no signs of stopping anytime soon.

SAMPLE MENU SELECTIONS StarterS & ShareableS

Beer & Cheddar Soup

medium cheddar and Rickards Red, served with Bob’s homemade croutons

Deep Fried Dill Pickles

“We put a strong emphasis on making as much as possible in-house with fresh ingredients,” says owner and chef Bob Brey. “For an authentic barbecue experience, stop on in.” cut sweet potato fries, onion rings, cheesy potato salad, Greek pasta salad, baked beans, coleslaw or corn on the cob deSSertS

Big Tex

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing Deep Fried Cheesecake Family Combos Also Available for Take out.

entreeS

l. a. bob’S catering ServiceS Weddings, brunches, business luncheons and other social gatherings. Platter menu options and custom menus for any event!

6 pickles with chipotle mayo burgerS topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, piled high with onion rings and smothered in BBQ sauce

Smoked Beer Can Chicken 1/2 or 1/4

Smoked BBQ Pork Ribs 1/2 rack pork ribs

SandwicheS & wrapS

Pulled Pork

shredded, topped with dill pickle and served on a rustic bun

Beef Brisket on a potato roll

A generous 6oz serving of marinated and smoked beef brisket SideS Lattice cut seasoned french fries, lattice

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ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

WINDMILLS

Chateaubriand Steak

Kingston

Bourbon Street Shrimp

Cheese and Charcuterie

Windmills Casual Fine Dining: A Kingston Tradition since 1984 No matter what you’re looking for, or the time of day, Windmills on Princess Street truly has something for everyone.

With an inviting atmosphere and options to please any palate, this Kingston mainstay stimulates the senses in more ways than one. Their inventive menu uses fresh, local ingredients and flavours from around the world. They offer both vegetarian and gluten-free options, with catering services available, as well. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, and a wide selection of fine wines, spirits and coffee beverages, Windmills has delighted diners in Kingston for more than 30 years and is the ideal dinner destination to complete a day downtown.

DINNER APPETIZERS Cider Crispy Brussel Sprouts - Brussel sprouts and pancetta lardon, with apple cider glaze and goat cheese $10 Bourbon Street Shrimp - Skewered shrimp and ham with grilled pineapple molasses and rum sauce $23 ENTREES Beef Tenderloin Tower - Filet Mignon with buttered potato purée, creamy goat cheese spinach and cider brussell sprouts $32 Thai Red Curry Wild Pacific Black Cod Served with coconut almond rice, snow peas, shitake and crispy wontons $23 Fisherman’s Fresh Black Ink Spaghetti - Pasta Genova’s black ink spaghetti with shrimp, chorizo sausage, king crab and smoky tomato herbed sauce $24

LUNCH STARTERS AND SALADS Moroccan Vegetarian Bastilla Spring Rolls rice phyllo filled with a mix of onions, almond paste and vermicelli infused in a northern African spice blend $9 Cobb Salad with Chicken Paillard - mixed greens, cherry tomato, avocado, Stilton cheese, bacon, toasted walnuts and lemon white

balsamic vinaigrette served with a marinated grilled chicken breast $14 BURGERS/WRAPS/LUNCH PLATES Gourmet Beef Burger - topped with pancetta, Brie, greens, red onions, tomato and roasted red pepper aioli $13 T.L.T. - tofu marinated in herbs and spices, tomato, mustard and greens on multi-grain toast $9.25 Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Plate served with fresh fruit, vegetables and a toasted whole wheat bagel $12.25 GOURMET PIZZA Smoked Sausage - with Calabria soppressata salami, Ontario smoked sausage, caciocavallo smoked cheese, black olives and tomato sauce $12.25

BRUNCH/BREAKFAST Cranberry Raisin French Toast- with maple butter & toasted pumpkin seeds $10.75 - with gluten free cranberry raisin bread $12.95 Ham and Cheese Crèpes - two crèpes filled with smoked ham and Monterey Jack cheese $10.75 Frittata - an open-faced omelette, topped with a roasted red onion and your choice of: sundried tomato and goat cheese; ham, Brie and roasted red peppers; spinach, mushrooms, grape tomato and mozzarella cheese; chorizo sausage, Monterey Jack cheese and tomato salsa $12.50

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Chef Sam Eddahi

windmills-cafe.com 184 Princess Street Kingston ON 613.544.3948 Breakfast: Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Lunch: Monday to Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Brunch: Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Dinner: Seven days a week, beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Patio opens May 1st Proudly supporting local farmers, local purveyors and the sustainable Canadian Fisheries

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TaiT’s Bakery and deli

kingston

TaiT’s Bakery and deli

101 Dalton Avenue King’s Crossing Fashion Outlets Kingston 613.507.8278 info@taitsbakery.net www.taitsbakery.net Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m

A Brockville Tradition Opens in Kingston

Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

While its Kingston location just opened in December 2014, the legacy behind Tait’s Bakery and Deli spans over a century.

Sunday Closed until March

Opened in 1908, Tait’s is a Brockville, Ont. mainstay. And much of what began the traditional European bakery and deli remains today.

Still using some of the original recipes, everything at Tait’s is made in a traditional manner using no preservatives or additives, from their full breakfast and lunch menu to their baked goods

SAMPLE MENU SELECTIONS TaiT’s Bread 19 varieTies including: Vienna Harvest Rye Chinese Potato Onion Gluten Wise Historic Hearth Cakes, Pies, rolls, French pastries, baked treats lunch Menu:

Soups of the day & Chili Sandwiches (including) Wrap Reuben Montreal Smoked Meat Veggie Delight

Submarines: (including)

Tait’s Special: Roast beef, Turkey, Pastrami, Ham, Salami, Cajun Chicken, Pizza:

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“We put a huge emphasis on fresh ingredients and foods prepared daily,” says owner Perry Wenham. “We’re a family-owned business making fresh products the way they’re meant to be made… so all you are getting is the freshest and finest ingredients we can serve.”

Mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, onion, mushrooms & pizza sauce, Deluxe: roast beef, ham, and turkey

Sandwiches: (including) Regular sliced bread: buttered with assorted sliced meats or salad fillings Tea or Rolled sandwiches

Hearty sandwiches buttered with hand sliced Vienna, Russian Rye, French Stick with assorted sliced meats and/or salad fillings. Kaiser Bun with assorted sliced meats and/or salad fillings

Sub Platters also available Trays: Fresh Veggie, fresh fruit, combo fruit, cheese and pickles Sliced meat trays Sliced cheese trays Mini bruschetta tray Breakfast tray Dips, salads, desserts and beverages

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

THE WATERFRONT RIVER PUB & TERRACE

Napanee

The Waterfront River Pub & Terrace In a Class of Its Own In a stunning historic limestone building sitting on the banks of the Napanee River, The Waterfront sets the standard for an exceptional experience.

The flagstone terrace is gorgeous and a superlative culinary team creates both traditional pub comfort food as well as innovative offerings. Fresh ingredients are the foundation of outstanding fare, and an extensive high-end craft beer selection, discerning wine list and superb cocktail selection define casual elegance.

Warm and welcoming no matter the season, The Waterfront’s upper dining room, with a fireplace and view of the river, is ideal for special occasions and group events.

STARTERS Drunken Prawns - Fresh prawns sautéed in a cider and cream reduction and served with crispy Sweet Potato Haystacks *GF $13 Parmesan and Truffle Frites - Hand cut frites tossed with truffle oil and parmesan cheese.

Served with a rosemary and cracked pepper aioli dipping sauce *GF $13 Pacific Smoked Salmon Terrine - Dill cream cheese encased in Pacific smoked salmon and served with our house made crostinis $12

FROM THE GARDEN Roquefort Pear Salad - Mesclun greens, Roquefort Cheese, pears, celery and candied pecans served with our ice wine vinaigrette *GF $13

WATERFRONT FAVOURITES Maple and Whisky Salmon - Atlantic salmon glazed with a maple and whisky reduction.

Served with Yukon potatoes, seasonal vegetables, red onion marmalade and grainy mustard *GF $21 Steak au Poivre - Our tender Triple AAA Reserve Angus Strip Loin garnished with a cream and brandy green peppercorn sauce.

Served with our Red Skin Garlic Rustic Smashed and fresh grilled vegetables $26

PASTA The Waterfront Cannelloni - Fresh Ricotta, Parmesan, Mozzarella and Cottage Cheese rolled in pasta and finished with our house made tomato sauce and fresh basil garnish $18 Brandy Blushed Penne Pasta - Tender gluten free penne pasta in a brandy blushed cream sauce *GF $18

PERFECT ENDINGS Crème Brûlée Light and Silky vanilla custard with fresh seasonal berries *GF $8

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Chef Sarah Traviss

thewaterfrontnapanee.com 22 Water Street Napanee ON thewaterfrontriverpub @gmail.com The Waterfront River Pub and Terrace

613.354.2053 Open daily at 11 a.m.

Check website for live music and special events Groups and Special Occasions Welcome *GF - selections from our full Gluten Free menu.

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30 Day Dry Aged Beef - Like nothing you’ve tasted before!

BarBecue

• • • •

Signature Dry-Aged Beef Five Fresh Kabob Varieties Local Lamb Fresh Game

Deli

• Fresh European Deli • Preservative-free Deli Roast Beef and Turkey • Fine Cheeses • Catering Available

Barriefield MARKET

lunch

• Fresh Deli Sandwiches Made-To-Order • Daily Soup or Hot choice • In-House Deli Salads

Barriefield Centre • 760 Highway #15 (across from LaSalle High School) Mon–Sat 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Sun 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

613.547.2223 | barriefieldmarket.com

SOCIAL life “For the Love oF Art”

By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

For its 20th annual celebration, the Cezanne’s Closet Gala Fundraiser for Union Gallery did not disappoint.

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On the evening of Saturday, Feb. 7, nearly 200 people gathered in Ban Righ Hall for the annual event. Works of art donated by Queen’s University students, graduates and professors, as well as community artists, were exhibited around the room. Ticket holders enjoyed refreshments, awaiting their ticket to be drawn. Tickets were drawn randomly, and the corresponding ticket holder got to select a piece of art to take home. This year’s event raised more than $9,000 to fund the operation of Union Gallery.

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1. Singer Jasmine Thompson; 2. Garry Allen; Jan Allen, director, Agnes Etherington Art Centre; Catherine Hyett, LeClair-Hyett Designs; 3. Raffle volunteers Austin Henderson; Chelsea Saunders; Angela Lynn; 4. Donald O’Higgins; Kathy Burke; Takis Peponoulas; Daryl Bell

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5. Jen Wheelock; Kia Kortelianen; Leigha Stiles; Shaylyn Myshrall; Elyse Hermack; 6. Kevin Rodgers, artistic director, Modern Fuel Gallery; 7. Francesca Pang, co-chair, Cezanne’s Closet; Kelsey Fisher, board member, Union Gallery; 8. Rebecca Anweiler; Dayna Riemland

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ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

10 9. Barbara Muirhead; Jesse Wardell, co-chair, Cezanne’s Closet; 10. Lindsey Wilson, president of the board, Cezanne’s Closet & Union Gallery; 11. Art handlers Kia Kortelianen; Emma White; Daisy Jin; Tiffany Walmer; Elizabeth Stewart; Kelsey Newman-Reed; 12. Jocelyn Purdie, director, Union Gallery; Lindsey Wilson, president of the board, Cezanne’s Closet & Union Gallery

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FL

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

FUN ON THE WATER Starts at the Kingston Boat Show & Sale

By Katrina Geenevasen

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SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

W

hether you prefer motoring down the St. Lawrence River at top speed in a high-speed powerboat, or meandering along the shores of Lake Ontario aboard a personal watercraft, you’ll find everything you need at the Kingston Boat Show.

Taking place March 20 to 22 at the 1000 Islands Sportsplex, the Kingston Boat Show is hosted in conjunction with the Kingston Home & Cottage Show. It will feature more than 260 exhibitors and promises to be an unforgettable event, explains Stuart Galloway, show producer.

“What we have there are all the 2015 products that people might be looking for,” says Galloway. “[That includes] all the new boats, sport boats, smaller cruisers, personal watercraft, even canoes and kayaks. Anything that goes on the water, people can find at the boat show.”

In fact, says Galloway, there will be more than 100 2015 models at the show for attendees to admire, learn about and purchase from vendors. “They can find anything from a fishing boat to a 28-ft. cruiser, and everything in between,” he says. “The whole idea behind the show is that it offers a lot of variety and selection and that’s why people can shop, compare and buy in one location. If they’re looking for something new for the upcoming season, they can definitely buy it at the Kingston Boat Show.”

The sheer volume the show offers is what makes it so exciting, says Galloway.

“Kingston has never seen shows of this magnitude,” he says. “The real value is

in the total quantity and the quality of exhibitors that are participating.”

A boating mecca, Kingston is the ideal city to host such an event, explains Galloway — and the temptations, he adds, are always high. “I have been doing these shows for years and I always want to buy something, and sometimes I do,” he laughs. The largest consumer show between Toronto and Ottawa, there’s going to be nearly 100,000-sqarefeet worth of such temptations, all in a temperature-controlled, well-lit building.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s important to take time for friends and family.

“Everyone works so hard these days,” says Galloway. “We need to take time for leisure activities. There’s no better leisure activity than being out on the boat on a sunny day, whether you’re fishing or waterskiing or just relaxing.”

Be sure to visit www.ontariotradeshows. com for more information.

ABOVE Stuart Galloway, show producer

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

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PU TT I N G T H E I R

BEST SKATE FORWARD

F

By Trina Annand Photos courtesy Skate Canada/Stephan Potopnyk

or the first time, Kingston found itself hosting the Canadian Tire National Skating Championships.

The event, which took place Jan. 19-25, began its second century by bringing some of the world’s best competitive skaters to the Rogers K-Rock Centre, inspiring local fans to get out and skate, whether at a local rink or a frozen lake.

“I think people enjoy skating because it is one of the only sports that combines incredible strength and athleticism with artistry and performance,” says Barb MacDonald, corporate communications director of Skate Canada. “Seeing skating

live is very different from watching it on TV, which is why we move the event around Canada, so everyone can have an opportunity to enjoy the high calibre of our competitors.”

Top senior level skaters Patrick Chan, Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir did not compete this year, allowing other skaters the chance to improve their national standings. With the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang just three years away, the event served as an important testing ground for Olympic hopefuls. During the event, athletes also vied for a place on the Skate Canada National Team, as well as

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

the Canadian World and Four Continents figure skating teams.

Skate Canada’s guiding philosophy has always been skate promotion. “We seek to inspire all Canadians to embrace the joy of skating. It’s very freeing to glide across the ice and feel the wind on your face. It’s a fantastic pastime for all ages and skill levels,” says MacDonald.

Much more than fluidic movements and sequins, the 2015 Canadian Tire National Skating Championships allowed nearly 250 skaters to show the nation what they were made of, taking that next step on their quest for excellence.

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Around the World IN

luxury

By Trina Annand

Enjoying the luxury of an extraordinary hotel suite can make the difference between an average vacation and a dream escape. Around the world hoteliers are creating one-of-a-kind experiences for their guests.

Photo courtesy of Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Grand Hotel Tremezzo Lake Como, Italy

$3,300 per night

The views of Lake Como are what swayed George Clooney to buy his Italian home. You can enjoy them too from the Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s rooftop penthouse suite with a private terrace and jacuzzi. Integrating modern furnishings with traditional Italian architecture and luxury, the hotel crafts each visitor’s experience based on their interests.

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Photo courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge

Southern Ocean Lodge Kangaroo Island, Australia

$3,600 per night

Just 15 kilometres off the coast of Australia is the perfect place for those who truly want to get away from it all. In the Osprey Pavilion, guests have the luxury of their own private cottage filled with amenities including floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy awe inspiring views of the ocean, an in-suite fire pit, private pool and a lavish bathroom featuring a hand-sculpted granite bath tub.

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, French Polynesia $10,400 per night

Photos courtesy of Jumeirah Group

Ideal for a family vacation, the Otemanu Beachfront Villa offers three bedrooms and four bathrooms in an expansive 5,400 square feet.

Featuring traditional Polynesian architecture, the villa combines the most modern amenities with views of the beach, lagoon and Mount Otemanu. For a more intimate stay, visitors can enjoy a stunning over-the-water bungalow with plunge pool and a romantic Kahaia spa suite for a day of luxury treatments for two.

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

MAIN IMAGE Photo by Moeava de Rosemont.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates $13,800 per night

Standing tall in the Arabian Gulf, the distinctive sail-inspired hotel is a true symbol of modern Dubai. Guests arrive by helicopter to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

Staying in the royal two bedroom suite with panoramic views of the gulf and lavish Middle East inspired décor is an unsurpassed experience. A luxurious home away from home, the suite features a private elevator, lounge, library and master baths stocked with Hermès amenities for him and her. With the largest brigade of butlers in the world, guests’ wishes are never out of reach.

Four Seasons New York, USA

$45,000 per night

The Four Seasons has yet again raised the bar. The 4,300 square foot Ty Warner Penthouse Suite took $50 million and seven years to create. With unbelievable 360 degree views of Manhattan, it is punctuated by rare Chinese onyx, calf skin, walnut, Venetian velvet and Japanese silk. A private library full of art and history books, a lounge, a spa studded with semi-precious stones and a zen room await guests who are looking for the royal treatment.

The suite also comes with a small army of personal staff— 24 hour butler service, Rolls-Royce chauffeur, art concierge and personal trainer.

Photo by Durston Saylor. Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Regardless of budget, it is the added luxuries that make a trip and hotel stay special. When choosing a place to stay, remember this could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make it anything but ordinary.

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Take a Wellness Vacation

routine. A “wellness vacation” not only allows you to recharge, but also revitalize the mind, body and soul. seReniTY and peRsonalized escape

Sonia Huurman Travel Agent Marlin Travel Service Guaranteed 645 Gardiners Road, Suite 114 Kingston 613.384.4567 ext. 114 sonia@sg-travel.com

RediscoVeR YouRself aT The BodY holidaY lespoRT

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f your new year’s resolution is to get healthy and stay healthy, it’s a noble goal — one that many people make, but too often goes unfulfilled.

So, how can you stay on track this year?

The answer is by doing something good for yourself and taking a vacation, or to be more specific, a “wellness vacation.”

A vacation is meant to recharge your batteries; it’s a time to get away from the emails, appointments, the hustle and bustle of your busy workday and daily

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Wellness tourism has become a growing trend, as many are looking for an escape from the everyday. But they are also looking for rejuvenation; a break that will leave them feeling refreshed, revived and ready to return to the daily grind. The five-star Body Holiday LeSport in St. Lucia will help you accomplish just that.

Relax and RecupeRaTe If a considerable amount of physical activity doesn’t appeal to you, there are other programs such as dance, meditation, therapeutic care and a host of others designed to help you cultivate a healthy lifestyle that will last.

Imagine a program personalized just for you, containing as little or as much as you want to do! Also included in your stay is a choice of seven 50-minute body treatments designed to unwind the mind and body.

Located in stunning, natural scenery, this resort promises their guests one of the most relaxing and exhilarating vacations they will ever experience. They put focus on health and well-being through a combination of an active beach holiday and body treatments designed to relax and revitalize.

eaTing Well

fun and unique expeRience

Staying in control of what we eat can be challenging, which is why the nutritionists are there to help educate their guests so they can continue to make healthier choices after returning home. This is not to say there is no room for indulgence.

The Body Holiday LeSport is all about choice and doesn’t take away from the kind of vacation you expect and deserve.

Most inclusive resorts provide an assortment of land and water activities; but with The Body Holiday LeSport, most of the activities and programs are included in the price of your holiday. It’s an opportunity to rediscover yourself and get rejuvenated both mentally and physically. Why not start your day with yoga on the beach, a round of golf or even archery? Maybe you’ve thought about working one-on-one with a personal trainer, or trying scuba diving?

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

There is no question exercise, rest and relaxation are crucial to good health and well-being. But in addition to that, The Body Holiday LeSport will help combine nutrition so you will receive the maximum benefit of a destination wellness holiday.

Wellness is not about pushing yourself to see how much you can do. It’s about balance and relaxation — taking the time to enjoy your life, not just live it.

INCOME PROPERTY NEW SEASON

FEBRUARY 26 HGTV is a trademark of Scripps Networks, LLC; used with permission.

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HOUSE & HOME

Scott

McGillivray Reno & Real estate InvestIng expeRt

By Erin Legg

now a Regular Contributor to Fine lifestyles & Fine Homes Magazines

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HOUSE & HOME

B

est known for his pearly white smile, honest advice and occasional antics as the host of HGTV’s popular Income Property, Scott McGillivray has built an empire from the ground up. Aside from hosting and producing the longrunning program, McGillivray balances being a family man with a career as a successful business owner, author and educator. But take away his international recognition and would it matter? No. Family is his first and foremost commitment.

“Not a day goes by that I don’t acknowledge that becoming a father is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” states McGillivray. McGillivray married Sabrina in 2008, and since have become parents to two daughters, Myah, three and Layla, 18 months. “Having children is the most amazing thing that’s ever happened in my life. It’s changed my life completely.”

McGillivray dedicates everything he can to his family, and that involves strict fashioning of his career and public life. “My primary focus is family and everything else has to work around it. We set up some work rules [and made] hard decisions, but they’ve been the right decisions. I’ve had to turn down opportunities, but I have to be able to just come home and be a dad sometimes.”

Although McGillivray easily gushes about his wife and children, he remains modest about himself in the spotlight. Recently, People named him “Sexy Man of the Week,” which he finds humorous.

“It’s probably the most awkward thing that’s ever happened to me. My wife [and] my friends thought it was hilarious. No one takes it too seriously, especially me.”

At the age of 19, McGillivray was advised: “Life is too short to learn from your own mistakes.” He elaborates, “You’ve got to learn from other people. Lots of people have trouble listening and asking the right questions to people who have already done what they want to do.”

Income Property is just one vehicle by which McGillivray educates homeowners on smart investing and renovations. Armed with more than 150 of his own income properties across North America and his B. Comm (Honours), he partnered with longtime friend, Michael Sarracini, and founded the Lifetime Wealth Academy, providing crucial real estate advice and education to want-to-be investors. “Teaching other people is something I always gravitated toward and I was naturally giving real estate and reno advice to my friends and family anyway,” he explains.

“I feel my best when people can take something away from the show or a live event. I love hearing when people have learned something or have been inspired to buy a property or take on a renovation because of me. That’s the most rewarding.”

In 2015, McGillivray will continue educating homeowners using his knowledge and expertise in real estate as a regular contributor to Fine Lifestyles and Fine Homes magazines. “It’s going to be a good year!” he says with his trademark smile.

Check out the new season of Income property thursdays at 9 p.m. & 9:30p.m. et/pt on Hgtv CanaDa. /everythingscottMcgillivray | @smcgillivray @scottmcg | @scott_mcgillivray www.scottmcgillivray.com PREVIOUS PAGE PHOTO Tim Leyes THIS PAGE PHOTOS Richard Sibbald

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The Benefits of Using a RealtorSelling When Spring Looking at New Home Construction

Tracie Tattrie SalesTracie Representative Tattrie Sales Representative Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty 640 Cataraqui Woods Drive Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty Kingston 640 Cataraqui Woods Drive Kingston 613.484.0225 613.484.0225 tracie@tracietattrie.ca tracie@tracietattrie.ca kingstonrealestateagentwhocares.com

kingstonrealestateagentwhocares.com

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QUesTioN: Should I use a Realtor others for after-sales service; this is when looking ow at new construction? youron realtor can thathome the long, cold months important Keepinformation YouR eYe expenSeS of winter are behind us, provide to help you make an informed Legal fees, possible staging or pre-listing ANsWeR: Yes, of course, and I believe and spring has made her decision. preparatory work, land transfer tax, most realtors feel the same. I currently

much-anticipated work on the Barr Home schedule for(and openlong awaited) arrival, many Kingstonians houses and meet many people struggling are their next move. toplanning make an informed decision about building a new home. There are so many Spring is oftentimes the most preferred considerations to keep in mind to make a season to list a home, because the kids knowledgeable decision — from different are still in school and homes look their builders and neighbourhoods, to costs best — after all, the flowers are blooming and incentives. Working with a personal and the trees are bright green. It’s also Realtor, you will have access to all this a great time of year for homeowners information in a timelier manner. Plus, who need to tackle outdoor projects to they are invested in your purchase and maximize their home’s selling potential. want you to make the best decision today and for future resale.

moving costs and should commission must all QUesTioN: Why I use be budgeted for, especially if you are my own Realtor versus the builder’s using the proceeds from your current representatives?

whom you really want to work with. And remember: when you do sign a contract, understand what you are signing.

and you are fulfilled. Don’t hesitate to contact me for a free consult on all of your real estate needs.

home to finance the purchase of another

ANsWeR: If need you to opt foryour your home. You’ll know numbers own — Realtor, you will have personal this is what your team does for you. representation.

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a more liStdetached Sometimes it can be YourMaKe Realtor is and can tough, but it’s very important to shed light on the situation from a different decide arehard and to prioritize angle.what He oryour she isneeds working ensure them If you have real estate on your mind this over your “wants.”

What are the pros you make great decisions and ask the right Your Realtor access to the spring, herealso arehas three things to entire consider: and cons of moving? Will you need to questions. landscape of the “new build” spectrum. purge? Paint? Fix that deck? Where do DeciDe on a the Real eState Personally, I have mywhat clientsiswith Have you Googled builders in you want toassisted live and important agent It’sarea important interview selections for flooring and cupboards; it’s the Kingston recently? toThere is to you? Understand your timelines least three agentsofbefore I am a designer, but because a at wonderful selection housesmaking from a not because and needs, and share them with your decision. Believe it or not, wework are all I seeRealtor. what theYou public is looking for and how prestigious custom builders who might be surprised different a variety services. whatRealtors is best forcan resale. jobpressure is to helpoff and closely withand youoffer to create yourofdream takeMy the make Be sure to are findalso an agent who home.

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HOUSE & HOME

Your One-Stop Landscape & Full Service Garden Centre [ S i n c e 19 6 3 ]

For more than 50 years, Potter’s Nurseries has carried a wide range of the items that you need to keep your yard and garden in peak condition.

• • • • • • • •

Open Year Round Shrubs, Evergreens Perennials Vines, Roses Shade Trees Installation Services Seeds & Bulbs Fertilizers, Soils, Mulch

690 Golden Mile Road, Kingston (corner of Bath & Days Road) 613.389.3333 pottersnurseries.com

For All Your Construction & Renovation Needs PC Custom Construction offers a wide array of services.

Experienced in all types of renovations: bathrooms, new flooring, drywall, trim, as well as new construction: decks, fences, new homes, garages; we will work closely with you to fulfill all of your construction needs.

• • • • •

Fully Insured & Licensed Carpenters Home Building, Barns & Sheds Decks & Fences Renovations Free Quotes

PC CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION 690 Golden Mile Road, Kingston (corner of Bath & Days Road) Brandon: 613.331.1841 | Charles: 613.214.4091 pccustomconstruction@gmail.com A division of Potter’s Nurseries Ltd.

A T R U E D I SA P P E A R I N G AC T

INVISIBLE POOLS

By Trina Annand

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PREVIOUS PAGE Photos AquaLift TOP Pool closed, space can be used as a patio; MIDDLE pool open. Photos Invisipools. BOTTOM Photos AquaLift

can simply be lowered with the deck, allowing them to enjoy a healthier and more active lifestyle. Swimming has long been exalted for its health benefits.

Thanks to buoyancy, it is a great workout that reduces impact and stress placed on the body that can arise with activities like running. Swimming uses the large muscle groups, strengthening the whole body. Regular swimming provides better blood-sugar control and reduces the risk of diabetes. It also improves lung capacity, brain and heart function, and even flexibility. In children, learning to swim has shown an increase in motor skills while combining physical activity and fun.

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hen selecting a backyard pool, technology probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Fortunately for homeowners, advancements in this industry now allow for a plethora of unique options.

A recent flurry of innovation has given rise to moveable pool floors — systems that solve many of the age-old problems associated with having an in-ground pool. Much more than simply a pool, these systems can create an entirely new outdoor lifestyle for homeowners of all ages.

Moveable pool floors, hidden pools or invisible pools — as the trendsetters have labelled them — consist of a hydraulic system that raises and lowers the pool floor. When fully raised, the pool completely disappears, allowing for extra

space and added safety as the system can be locked with a key and pass code.

The space becomes accessible only while supervised, reducing the possibility of accidents. Backyard pools are often seen as a hazard, requiring fences and safety protocols. According to Statistics Canada, children are five times more likely to drown in private pools. The variable depths of this new pool system allow for swimming fun for all ages and skill levels, creating a shallow wading pool, a mid-depth pool for those just learning to swim, or a full depth pool perfect for swim and play.

The invisible pool also allows people with mobility concerns, whether from age or disability, to enjoy swimming again. By removing the barrier of climbing in and out of the pool, these swimming enthusiasts

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The true beauty of an invisible pool is the urban development factor. In densely packed cities and suburban areas, homeowners often need to make a choice between having a pool, yard or entertainment space. With the invisible pool, you can go from swimming in the morning to enjoying a deck or patio for a party in no time at all. It provides homeowners with the best of both worlds in a small yard. Often clad in tile or a composite decking, this floor provides the ultimate entertainment space. The application has even been extended to indoor pools in both commercial and residential settings, so owners can enjoy the benefits of swimming and added square footage year round. Certain hidden pool systems even open via a sliding mechanism moving under a deck panel, allowing for a turf covering to create the ultimate grassy oasis for pets and kids.

The limits to this new backyard technology are as endless as your imagination. With the right company and engineer, an invisible pool can be any shape, size and material.

Homeowners can also incorporate a number of luxury items to make their cutting-edge pool the envy of the neighbourhood, including musical massage, a current for lap swimming, LED projection for a therapeutic light show, even fountain or fire pit elements. When selecting the right pool, it is important to appraise your lifestyle and future plans. Whether finishing off a dream home or making an investment in the property ladder, the right pool system can add value to any home.

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Splash into a Spectacular Summer!

By Melanie Furlong

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et ready for backyard fun this summer by planning your new pool now. Whether you’re looking for an on-ground or above-ground pool, swim spa or hot tub, St. Lawrence Pools will help you design your outdoor dream retreat.

This successful family-owned and operated company, which now has stores in Kingston, Belleville, Brockville and Cornwall, has been delivering family fun and fitness to eastern Ontario since 1971.

Everyone from young families looking for a place to entertain to seniors who use pools for fitness come to St. Lawrence Pools, says owner Chuck Dickison.

“We have many examples of building for three generations of the same family.

The kids who came in as youngsters and sat at our lab, wide-eyed, while

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their mom and dad tested their pool water have come back 20 years later with their own children,” he says.

While some clients choose plunge pools for keeping cool in summer or stunning infinity pools with vanishing edges, others want swim spas with powerful jets that can be adjusted to accommodate recreational swimmers and elite athletes alike. Homeowners looking for in-ground pools have an array of features to choose from, including different shapes, vinyl or concrete pool materials, waterfalls and more.

St. Lawrence Pools is a member of the Master Pools Guild, the leading pool builders’ association, which gives them exclusive access to the resources of the largest international network of elite custom pool builders in the world.

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Dickison attributes their success to the expertise of their staff. They have many members who have been with them more than 20 years. He says, “When one of our trucks pulls into your yard to construct a pool, there is often more than 100 years of experience amongst those staff members. We have seasoned people who take great pride in their work.”

The staff does everything from design to installation and maintenance.

“We have a design team made up of people who have been in the industry for many years,” says salesperson Josh Vaters. “We use the newest technologies for planning backyards and can create whatever our customers want. Everyone has a different idea, but we can always exceed their expectations.”

Homeowner Martin L. says, “There’s really something to be said for purchasing big ticket items from true professionals who know what they’re selling and remember the service they told you about when you made your initial purchase.” In the last few years, he’s called on the company to move his hot tub twice, order replacement cushions and he sees the same employees who test his water every few weeks. “I could have bought a hot tub online from a big box store, but where would I be now? I recommend St. Lawrence Pools to everyone I know.”

A pool is an investment in family, says Dickison.

“There is something comforting about being at home with your family all around you. When life is busy and you don’t have the time to get away, your family can get together for a few hours in your backyard to have real quality family time.”

St. Lawrence Pools offers everything you need to make your home a luxurious retreat, including patio furniture, saunas, fitness equipment, boat docks and bar stools.

Talk to the experienced staff members at St. Lawrence Pools about your backyard and see why they are your Summer Specialists!

St. Lawrence Pools 525 Days Road Kingston, ON 613.389.5510 www.stlawrencepools.ca

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Choosing Your Flooring One Room at a Time

By Henny Buffinga Photos Courtesy Clayton Flooring

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re you choosing your flooring for the right reasons? Do you analyze your lifestyle and look at each room in terms of activities and movement or how much your back aches when standing for tasks like cooking? Or, like many of us, do you have an idea of what style you like and just go with that?

Getting an expert’s opinion can help with your lifetime investment. The professionals at Clayton Flooring can be your guides, with six owners/installers that are personally invested in making sure their customers get the right floor for their needs.

Richard Cuerrier, one of the owners of Clayton Flooring, has suggestions for every room of the house. “The most important thing we do is make sure our customers are choosing their floor for

only is carpet the warmest and most comfortable option, but it’s also the quietest,” he says. “Thanks to Mohawk’s and DuPont’s innovations, it’s now incredibly stain resistant.”

the right reasons,” says Cuerrier. “For example, a customer might have a busy household and want a dark hardwood floor. Dark floors can be really rich looking, but they show wear a lot more than a light or medium-tone wood, so you might want to reconsider that for high traffic areas.” Luxury vinyl planks are also great in entrances because they handle the wear and tear well, plus they look as good as the real thing whether it’s a wood or tile visual.

Think of your favourite room in the house.

You want to make it as cosy as possible so you can relax with the family. For maximum comfort, Cuerrier suggests Mohawk SmartStrand Silk carpet. “Not

Maybe you’re thinking about the kitchen, because that’s where everyone gets together to chat and catch up. “Cork is an excellent alternative to traditional floor covering options in the kitchen,” says Cuerrier. “It’s warm and comfortable, and extremely forgiving. If cork isn’t your thing, keep in mind vinyl has come a long way and is more durable and attractive than ever.” Vinyl’s low maintenance surface makes it a classic in the kitchen.

If you’re thinking of renovating the bathroom and can’t decide between cold tiles or laminate flooring, DuraCeramic is a great alternative to a regular ceramic tile. It’s much warmer and considered nicer to stand on, says Cuerrier.

For bedrooms, Cuerrier also suggests cork not only for its warmth and give, but also because it is quiet for late night

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trips to the bathroom. Cork is also allergy friendly. Its absorbent nature is naturally antimicrobial, and it also prevents heat loss in the house.

And finally, for a sophisticated formal area, leather is a high-end product that gives an elegant finish to the room.

It’s a luxurious option when you’re really looking for the “wow factor” in your home.

Clayton Flooring appreciates their customers; staff members work hard to give them the best flooring to suit their home and their lifestyle. “If there is a product we wouldn’t use in our house, we can’t expect you to use it in yours,” says Cuerrier.

For more information, and more ideas for your own home, visit Clayton Flooring today.

Clayton Flooring 2782 Princess Street 613.389.8888 www.claytonflooring.ca

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STEINPATZ AND SONS A 60-Year Family Legacy

By Tori Stafford Photos Chris Watkins

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s a blanket is carefully removed from draping over a tall, mahogany two-tone dresser, the finish illuminates with the presence of light. “Feel that — it’s like silk,” says Fred Steinpatz, running his hand across the surface. “That’s what we do. We make wooden furniture look and feel beautiful.”

Looking around the workshop, it is easy to see why H. Steinpatz and Sons Furniture Restoration has survived 60 years and three generations in business: the work they do is meticulous and beautiful, and a passion for restoring and creating quality wooden furniture runs in the family.

Like the pieces they work on, the Steinpatz family has a story all of its own.

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Fred smiles as he recalls the early years, when his father, Hans Steinpatz, an Austrian immigrant with that same passion, first opened the business downtown in 1955.

In 1961, H. Steinpatz and Sons moved from its original location to its current home on Princess Street. By 1979, his son Randy had joined the business, where his talents for furniture finishing were immediately apparent. In 1998, Fred’s youngest son, Rene, also joined the family company, bringing with him his skills in fine woodworking.

Today, celebrating 60 years of business, the second and third generations practice a trade that is no less than an art form – and one that is not as common as it once was, Fred explains.

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OPPOSITE TOP L-R Rene Steinpatz, Fred Steinpatz and Randy Steinpatz TOP Hans Steinpatz BOTTOM Randy Steinpatz

“It’s a dying art form,” he says, noting there were at least five other furniture restoration shops in Kingston when the business opened. Today, there are but a couple, even though the city’s population has more than doubled. “It’s a dying art form because, for one, there is no one left to teach it, and, two, because there are no longer the furniture factories we once had. A great portion of today’s products are not made to the same quality, and not made to be restored, as well.”

It’s that quality that makes purchasing antique furniture and having it restored, or breathing new life into a family heirloom such a good investment, says Fred. In the 60 years H. Steinpatz and Sons has been in business, the family has worked on invaluable pieces of history to restore them to their original glory, such as Sir John A. Macdonald’s desk that now sits on display in Kingston City Hall. Priceless antiques and Steinway grand pianos have passed through their workshop, and they’ve given countless pieces of furniture a new lease on life, adding colour to items that have become boring to their owners, or refinishing and rebuilding pieces that are tired or neglected.

With a 35-year association with the Gibbard Furniture Company and a legacy of excellence in furniture restoration, there is a true sense of pride and dedication within the family-owned and operated business, says Fred. “I love what I do, and working with my two sons all these years is very special,” he says. “It is not just a job, it is a passion. It’s a very fulfilling life.”

H. Steinpatz and Sons Furniture Restoration 3134 Princess Street Kingston 613.389.2196 www.steinpatzfurniturerestoration.com

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DON’T LET YOUR HOME

GO TO THE DOGS Living with pets...

IN STYLE

Urban Paws Cataraqui Pet Centre 1183 Midland Avenue Kingston, ON, K7P 2X8 (613) 384-0987 info@urbanpaws.ca

www.urbanpaws.ca

|

Urban Paws Downtown Smith Robinson Building 27 Princess Street, Suite 101 Kingston, ON, K7L 1A3 (613) 547-2323 info@urbanpaws.ca

NEED A TRUSTED PARTNER

MORE THAN A CONTRACT COURIER.

Indoor Air Quality SYMPTOMS LINKED TO POOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY INCLUDE: • Dryness and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin • Headache • Fatigue • Shortness of breath • Sinus congestion • Coughing and sneezing • Dizziness • Nausea

Bob McMullen, Marci McMullen and Andre Soucy Haven Home ClimateCare 2495 Princess Street Kingston 613.634.7722 www.havenhomeclimatecare.ca

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Did you know indoor air is two to five times more polluted than the air outside? Having poor indoor air quality affects all of us, but especially family members with allergies, asthma, lung disease, suppressed immune systems and children.

FineLifestyles

1 Get a hygrometer and keep an eye on your indoor relative humidity. A hygrometer is inexpensive and available at most hardware stores and home building centres. A suitable indoor relative humidity is typically 30 to 60 per cent.

2 Turn on your heat recovery ventilations system (HRV) or find out if you would benefit from having an HRV installed.

3 Turn on your whole home humidifier/ dehumidifier or find out if you would benefit from having a humidifier/ dehumidifier installed.

hen was the last time you seriously considered the quality of the air in your home? Poor indoor air quality can contribute to many different health problems.

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Here are some steps you can take to monitor and improve the indoor air quality in your home:

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4 Ensure you check and replace your furnace filters regularly.

5 Install a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter.

Another more serious issue, when talking about the quality of air in your home,is radon. Radon is a radioactive gas that is colourless and odourless. In confined spaces, it can pose as a serious health risk. According to Health Canada, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer.

HOUSE & HOME

Radon enters your home by seeping through cracks, pipes, windows and the foundation of your home. Most people are unaware of this happening. The health risk is not from ingesting the radon, but inhaling the gas. As stated by Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (CARST), “Radon breaks down to form radioactive elements that can be inhaled into the lungs where they damage the lung cells, causing lung cancer.”

In 2012, Health Canada released a report that “6.9 per cent of Canadians are living in homes with radon levels above the current guideline.” While it is not a requirement to test your home for radon, you are highly encouraged to do so. It is estimated radon kills 3,000 Canadians a year.

The only way to determine if your home has elevated levels of radon is to test for it. Testing your home should be done annually. It’s also a good idea to check if your local area has high radon levels.

We want to make sure your home is as comfortable and safe as possible.

The personal climate experts at Haven Home have indoor air quality testing systems and will help determine how to make the air in your home safer for you and your family. Our team of experts have been trained and certified through the National Environmental Health Association’s National Radon Proficiency Program, the only governing body recognized by Health Canada. Contact Haven Home ClimateCare for more details and information. You can trust us to ensure the safety of your home and family.

Making Your DIY Life Easier: Tips for proper application and use of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™

Elizabeth Harvey, owner The Melon Patch 357 Main Street Highway 33 Bath, Ontario 613.881.0165 elizabeth@themelonpatch.com

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hen Annie Sloan developed her signature line of decorative paint in 1990, she revolutionized the way we see decorative painting. She calls it Chalk Paint™ because of its velvety matt finish. Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan is easy to use and adheres to almost any surface — indoors or out — and there’s rarely any need to sand or prime before painting. It is available in two sizes and 32 pre-mixed colours.

PREPARATION

WOOD OR CONCRETE FLOORS

To properly mix this decorative paint, turn the can upside down for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Shake the can to mix the contents and stir the paint well.

Chalk Paint™ can transform old varnished wood or concrete floors. Apply two or three coats of paint and seal with two coats of Annie Sloan lacquer for durability.

BRUSHES

WALLS

N a t u ra l b r i s t l e b r u s h e s a re recommended and should be washed twice in warm water and a mild dish detergent before use. Once you have finished painting, clean the brushes again with soap and water.

Use a sponge roller or large brush to apply Chalk Paint™ to a wall, giving it a slight amount of texture and visual dimension. Use a fabric or wool roller to create texture and depth for interest.

IN THE GARDEN

Transform your kitchen cabinets with Chalk Paint™. Give them a coat of wax for durability; Chalk Paint™ gives character and interest rather than a “plastic finish.”

Refresh now and again with a light coat of wax as needed, and wipe with a damp cloth to clean.

You can use Chalk Paint™ on outdoor walls, wood, metal, concrete, matte plastic or terra cotta. It’s a great way to freshen up dated lawn furniture or flower pots. Be sure to let the paint harden over night before exposing to rain.

HARDWARE Hardware can also be painted with Chalk Paint™. For a distressed look, wax and rub the hardware with Annie Sloan Wax. METAL WORK AND LIGHT FIXTURES Chalk Paint™ can give new life to old brass and other metal fixtures. Over rusted areas, the paint will slow down the corrosion, but rust will appear over time.

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KITCHEN CABINETS

FABRIC/LEATHER /VINYL/ WICKER A quick and affordable way to reupholster.

1. Fabric: We recommend watering down the paint when applying to fabric in order to keep it soft.

2. Leather/Vinyl: Clean surface and apply two coats of paint followed by two thin coats of wax.

3. Wicker: Dilute the paint by approximately 20 per cent, depending on the coverage desired.

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Residential Design: Make Your Dream Home a Reality - Part 1

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o, after many years of thinking about it, dreaming about it, looking through an endless supply of designer magazines and online home plan sites, it’s now time to get dirty and build your dream home.

THE DESIGN IDEAS

Paul Ireland Certified Civil Engineering Technologist, CET Certified Designer Tarion Certified Builder President Signature Homes Limited Your Home, Your Way, Our Signature paul@signaturehome.ca www.signaturehome.ca

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The first step toward achieving the dream home you desire is to assess what it is you’re looking for in the home. Start by looking at how you live. Are you in need of three bedrooms, or just two? Do you want a separate dining area or will a nook off the kitchen be more than enough?

Start thinking about the priorities that will make your home more comfortable, easier to live in, and convenient. Is your family growing? Do you need that extra bedroom? Maybe you need to look at an in-law suite, or perhaps adding a secondary suite to supplement paying for the mortgage. Make a list of items and rate them in order of priority, this list will help you and your designer develop a plan that is going to provide a basis for your home design. Look at the home you live in now and ask yourself what you like best and make note of what you don’t like. Maybe the kitchen layout works, but an island with a bar top for quick meals would work better. Or, maybe the main bathroom works well but the ensuite is way too small for two people getting ready in the morning. Collect ideas from pictures in magazines, or go online and search your ideas and keep them in a folder — this will all help guide the designer in the direction you want to go.

HOUSE & HOME

STYLE OF HOME AND YOUR LOT Today’s homes vary from bungalows to two storeys, back splits to homes with basement walkouts. Lot sizes and configurations also play an important factor in the design. Many of the lots in subdivisions are smaller, narrow lots and the best choice for getting the space you need is to go to a two storey.

Also consider the size of garage; again, lot restrictions will determine if a twocar garage is achievable or not. Many subdivisions today have restrictions on the size and location of the garage and the type of materials, as a result of cities trying to make streetscapes more attractive and appealing.

If you’re in the country, lot size is usually less of an issue, but the orientation on the lot can be very important — such as taking advantage of the morning sun in the master bedroom, or being able to watch the sunset from the family room.

Maybe you desire to have a detached garage with a covered breezeway between the home and the garage. Either way, there are many options to review.

For the most part, if you have been dreaming about it, you already know the home you want — but there are still many questions to be answered. In future articles we will look at many of these questions that will point you in a direction of achieving the dream home you have always wanted. It’s your home, lifestyle, ideas and personality that need to be explored in developing your ideal dream home.

Downsizing: Transition With Ease

• When you are accustomed to a large home, it can be difficult to figure out how to navigate in a smaller space.

Hiring an interior designer is a great way to determine how much of your current furniture will fit in your condominium and the best way to place it.

Peggy Reid

owner Reid & Siemonsen Design Group 350 Bagot Street Kingston, ON 613.548.7891 www.rsdesigners.net

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any empty nesters are leaving large suburban homes for the convenience of smaller urban condominiums. Condominiums offer benefits different from the average home, such as great amenity spaces and less maintenance, but downsizing and learning to live in a smaller space can be a challenge. We have some suggestions that will help make your transition as smooth as possible.

• One of the first exercises to do is to decide what you will be moving with you. Use post it notes in three colours to label items keep, donate, or throw away. Once you’ve completed an initial walk through, it will be easier to figure out just how much you’ll have to move and what will actually fit in your new home. This is more difficult than it sounds because most people have a hard time letting go of treasured items.

It is beneficial to have a family member or friend help you with this.

• Another option is to hire a company that specializes in downsizing. They can help with every aspect from selling your home, finding a suitable condominium, selling unwanted furniture, the moving process, and even shipping childhood memorabilia to members of your family.

• Large pieces of furniture can be difficult to transition from a house to a smaller condominium. Consider purchasing small-scale pieces that will fit into your new space, rather than forcing oversized furniture into a room that might make it feel awkward

HOUSE & HOME

and overcrowded.

• Downsizing gives you the perfect opportunity to change your style.

While your house might feature a more traditional aesthetic, your new condominium — with a light and airy design — could be better suited to something a little more transitional.

Many pieces can be transformed by reupholstering or refinishing. Changing your style can visually demonstrate the transition you are making in your life and help you embrace the change.

• Newer buildings tend to have more windows, creating a greater need for window treatments. Blinds are important for maintaining your privacy and dealing with the light in wellwindowed spaces. They also help to prevent your furniture and flooring from fading in sunlight. You could also consider custom draperies, which can pull different elements of any room together to create a polished look.

• Storage can be a challenge in a smaller space, but custom millwork such as built-ins can be a great solution for making the most of the space you have available.

Feeling challenged? We’ve helped many clients transition from larger homes to smaller urban living, and we would love to help you turn your condominium into a home.

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WHEELS

Aston Martin’s V12 S Roadster: T h e P e r f e c T c o m b i n aT i o n o f

Speed & Beauty

By Trina Annand Photos courtesy Aston Martin

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est known as the car of choice for fictional British secret agent James Bond, Aston Martin has been creating some of the most beautiful cars in the world for just over a century. Capturing the hearts and minds of car enthusiasts of all ages and demographics, the manufacturer counts many celebrities amongst their clientele, including David Beckham, Elle Macpherson, Queen Latifah, Jay Leno, Halle Berry and Jason Statham. A perfect combination of beauty and speed, the V12 Vantage S Roadster is Aston Martin’s highest performing car to date and is bound to turn heads whether parked or speeding by.

First released in 2013, the V12 Vantage S Roadster looks to the future with a 6.0 litre V12 engine that reaches an impressive maximum speed of 205 mph or 329.9 kph. The details of this beautiful machine make the racing history encapsulated in

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the centennial CC100 attainable to those who are not professional drivers.

glimpse into the automaker’s plans for the future.

Founded in 1913 by Robert Bamford and Lionel Martin, Aston Martin has had a bumpy road to success, almost closing its doors more than once. After a successful venture into the world of racing, the company’s added media attention put them on the map of the world’s elite.

Whether new and high performance or vintage and timelessly elegant, Aston Martin cars spark the imagination by symbolizing the ultimate in English luxury and performance.

In 1959, Aston Martin was illuminated in the Pages of Ian Flemming’s popular 007 novels, and in 1964, a very high-profile partnership with the Bond film franchise began with the movie Goldfinger. Screen legend Sean Connery took the wheel of a silver birch DB5, a car that would later return in the most recent Bond film Skyfall for the Bond franchise’s 50th anniversary.

In the latest instalment of the franchise, Spectre, an Aston Martin DB10 was specifically developed for the film and will take centre stage, giving viewers a

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Aston Martin remains true to its roots with a dedication to hand-built English cars in their state-of-the-art headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, a strict contrast to the modern world where outsourcing and automation seem to be status quo. In 1984, the 10,000th Aston Martin A V8 Vantage was created a true testament to the unique quality of these cars that are not simply manufactured by the tens of thousands each year. This hands-on production creates the highest quality vehicle and allows the discerning client to create a truly one-of-a-kind car.

CARSTAR Kingston (Limestone) 152 Hickson Avenue Kingston 613.546.2272

Fascinating Show StopperS at th e D e t roi t auto S h ow

By Tobie Hainstock

This year’s annual North American International Auto Show, held Jan. 1225 in Detroit, will surely go down in history as one of the most memorable for sexy, breathtaking design and innovative technology.

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he Ford GT was the talk of the town all week. This thrilling two-seater sports car was inspired by Ford’s GT40 race car of the 1960s. First introduced in 2005, this newest model sets a standard all its own. Some of the highlighting features of this iconic car include a 600 horsepower twin-turbo EcoBoost six-cylinder engine, sculptural flying buttresses off the b-pillars, as well as other highly inventive aerodynamic solutions. The GT offers an estimated zero to 60 acceleration time of about three seconds and a top speed greater than 200 mph. Because of its lightweight carbon fibre construction, the GT is expected by Ford to exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car.

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Winners of this year’s show included the ever-popular Ford F-150 for North American Truck of the Year and the Volkswagen Golf and Golf GTI for North American Car of the Year. This marks the eighth time that Ford has walked away with the coveted award. The prestigious awards have many attributes that are taken into account during judging by an esteemed group of American and Canadian journalists.

Noted by many who attended, this year’s show was one of the most fascinating and creative in the show’s 22 year history.

It has truly caused many attendees to look forward to what will be on the show floor next year. www.forbes.com www.autonet.ca www.ca.autoblog.com

CARSTAR Kingston (Limestone) 152 Hickson Avenue Kingston 613.546.2272

PETRIE FORD:

Same Location, Improved to Serve You Better

By Tori Stafford

Photos Stephen Wild

A lot has changed at Petrie Ford over the last 18 months; but one thing remains the same — the service. “

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ou can’t change good oldfashioned, quality service,” says Steve Petrie, owner of the newly renovated Petrie Ford.

The Ford dealership — which has been at its 1388 Bath Rd. location for 45 years — has a new state-of-the-art facility, boasting numerous advantages for clients and staff alike.

The former Edwards Ford, owned and operated by the Petrie family since 1978, has undergone a complete transformation, with renovations to all

areas of the building and even a name change. Now, Petrie Ford is proud to offer clients a service centre designed to make bringing your Ford in for service and maintenance easy, fast and efficient — even in the depths of an Ontario winter.

“Having a drive-thru service area for our clients means no matter what the weather is like, they can drive into a warm environment,” says owner Steve Petrie.

“They’re greeted at their car by a service advisor … so they can get all the correct information that is needed – check mileage, wiper blades, headlights tire

condition – and the customer can point out any concerns.”

The new service centre has two drive-in doors with three service advisors onsite to meet customers as they pull in. This makes for a much smoother and easier discussion about the things clients may want to have looked at, and their personal experiences driving the vehicle.

“I love it,” says Sheri Posthumus, a service advisor with Petrie Ford. “It’s much easier, as you have one-on-one time with clients, and with a lot less interruptions than we’d

ABOVE Sean Dickson, service advisor with Petrie Ford clients

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have in our old service department. The customers who have been coming in are really enjoying it.”

While their vehicle is being serviced, the new customer lounge allows Petrie Ford clients to keep up with their work at the Internet bar, recharge with a coffee or snack, or just relax in front of one of their two big-screen TVs. And their newly introduced Owner’s Advantage Program means each time a client returns for service or to buy a new car, they are rewarded with points. These points translate into dollars the client can use on future vehicle servicing or purchases — and it’s just one more way the newlyrenovated dealership has made it more enjoyable to be a client at Petrie Ford.

“The new facility is very warm and inviting,” says Mark Carkner, new vehicle sales manager.

“Both our customers and our staff are enjoying the new environment,” Petrie agrees.

Petrie Ford 1388 Bath Rd. Kingston, Ont. 613.546.2211 1.866.966.0681 www.petrieford.com TOP Petrie Ford’s drive-thru service bay BOTTOM L Marg Smith, account manager BOTTOM R Glenn Jodoin, service advisor with Petrie Ford Client WHEELS

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PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS IN THE VIRTUAL WORLD

By Brook Thalgott

Today, businesses face far more risks than in the past, such as business interruption, cash flow and liquidity, reputation, regulatory changes and weak economic climate. Now, businesses face another growing threat — cyber risk. No company, no matter how big, is immune to issues from the virtual world. Just ask Sony Pictures and Target. Both suffered massive security breaches that affected customers and employees alike. In today’s connected world, businesses must be aware of the risks posed in cyberspace, and how to protect against threats.

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ccording to the Globe and Mail, cyber attacks have already hit more than one third of Canadian businesses. Gaining access via anything connected to the Internet, these well-funded and sophisticated criminal enterprises will attack businesses of any size and cause serious damage. Because the risk is constantly evolving, and the legal system is usually playing catch-up to technology, businesses have to protect themselves from all angles. With smaller businesses (less than 100 people) often the target, it really isn’t the massive multinationals alone that need to worry. While cyber risk insurance can help, it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. Cyber risk needs to be addressed across the whole business.

An enterprise cyber risk management strategy is a must for any business these days, and senior management needs to be front and centre in planning and implementation. Where the IT department was the gatekeeper, now the whole business needs to be aware of the risks presented by cyber crime. First, businesses need to address what exactly is at risk from cyber attacks. It may be customer information, proprietary information on products or services, or communications between employees. The big question to ask is what will a hacker find valuable if they get in?

The risk isn’t just financial — it’s reputational. When Sony Pictures

was hacked in 2014, they not only lost money over the release of the film The Interview, they also suffered serious reputational damage by the leak of sensitive emails between senior executives.

Businesses must ask what needs to be protected and why.

It’s not just senior management that needs to be involved in the development of a cyber risk strategy. A strategy should assess the current plan and practices and where improvements are needed, determine a monitoring process and what the procedures are if attacked. From the top down, the whole organization plays a part in keeping the business protected. Employees need to be educated about their responsibilities in minimizing risk, with a robust policy and compliance guidelines. Internal and external networks need to be assessed on an ongoing basis, with full knowledge of who has access to what and where everything is located. A well-planned and executed cyber risk strategy will help your business become resilient to cyber attacks.

As the world becomes more and more connected, the opportunities for businesses grow — as do the risks. While we’re often prepared for the traditional business threats, we may neglect the ones that come from our connectivity. However, with a robust, well-planned and executed strategy, cyberspace risks can be mitigated.

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Marketing With Purpose

Bruce White Agency Principal Jon Allison Creative Director RedTrain 1044 Gardiners Road Kingston 613.507.5733 bruce@redtrain.ca www.redtrain.ca

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The mistake we see most often in marketing is creating the message without a strategy, or choosing a platform without a message. Before beginning a marketing campaign, it’s imperative to define goals. These are all part of an effective, results-based strategy.

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The product: What are you selling?

You’d think this would be simple, but it’s amazing how often this definition changes with an outside perspective.

The consumer: Who are you selling to?

You have to put yourself in this person’s life to know their needs and how to communicate with them.

The marketplace: It’s no secret your product has competition; we rarely see an uncontested market. So, how will your brand stand out in the marketplace? Why should your target consumer choose your brand instead of competitors?

ffective marketing is reliant on three things: strategy, message and platform. Without one, the other two cannot succeed.

Together, however, the three can be significantly more successful.

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Define Your Goals At RedTrain, one of our first steps in creating your marketing strategy is to develop an in-depth understanding of three things: your product or service, the consumer and your marketplace.

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message — resulting in a higher impact.

You will get more results being the large fish in a small pond than a small fish in a large pond. We focus less on how many people hear you and more on who hears you and what they’re hearing.

Grab their attention In today’s world, the ad must communicate the message in a matter of seconds.

Whether it’s on a billboard or in a magazine, we live in a busy world with constant distractions. Without a powerful headline or captivating image, it’s easy to get lost in the mosh pit of ads screaming for our attention.

Understanding these three elements is the first step in developing an effective strategy. These become the anchor points to defining the success of your campaign.

insPire theM to action Once you get their attention, it’s important to inspire them to take action. A great ad needs to generate sales. At RedTrain, with a combination of strategic, well-written copy and functional, impactful design, we focus on getting you results. Even if you get a lot of exposure, if your message isn’t effective you won’t see the results.

iDentifY Your tarGet When identifying your target, it’s important to aim for the bulls-eye, not the entire target. This approach is more efficient and effective in getting results because we focus on reaching a targeted group that wants what you provide. It may be less exposure, but it allows you to invest more into the strategy and

conclusion In conclusion, it’s the combination of an effective strategy, impactful message and the right platforms that will get you the most results for your marketing efforts.

We’re here to help and would be happy to talk more about how we can make this work for you..

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Planning For Fun in Retirement

Carol Ann Budd, p.eng, cfp® Financial Consultant

Investors Group Financial Services Inc. 100 10000 Gardiners Road, Kingston Phone: 613.384.8973 Toll Free: 877.899.2262 carolann.budd@investorsgroup.com www.carolannbudd.com | | Associate: Melissa Parent

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emember when the perfect picture of retirement was a grandmotherly woman and a grandfatherly man sitting on a porch knitting and whittling away their sunset years with a view of Buck Lake?

Well, maybe that was once an accurate depiction of retirement, but it certainly isn’t today. Today’s retirees are active and looking forward to many years of excitement, fulfillment and fun!

What have you planned for retirement?

Travelling to terrific locations such as the Muskokas or our beautiful 1000 Islands

Parkway? Are you driving a recreational vehicle across the continent, or maybe on an historic trip down Route 66? Perhaps your plan is to volunteer for your favourite charity doing great work in our Limestone City, or to enhance your education at one of our great educational institutions such as Queen’s University or St. Lawrence College. Or maybe you are starting that new business you always dreamed of.

building your retirement nest egg in the first place.

Whatever your plans, you need a few things to make your retirement dreams come true: good health, a positive attitude and, of course, money. That’s why you’ve been saving for so many years — because you know good financial health is essential if you want your retirement to be as wonderful, personal and fun-filled as your dream.

Talk to your professional advisor about the best ways to cash in on the retirement of your dreams, and keep them wellfunded for life.

Sure, you’ll have to use some of your nest egg income to cover essential expenses for food, healthcare, utilities and other everyday living costs. But how you choose to use the rest of your money is entirely up to you. The key is to make sure you have enough money to fund your essential needs and fun interests — whatever they may be — for all your retirement years. That takes planning — the same kind of planning that went into

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Your retirement financial plan should make sure your hard-earned investments last longer and go farther. It should ensure a steady, predictable cash flow that will cover all your expenses. That means being very selective about your investment options.

Want to know how ready you are for retirement and how to get the most out of your retirement years? Go to www.investorsgroup.com and take the interactive Investors Group Retirement Readiness™ Quiz. It’s a great way to assess your emotional, financial, social and physical preparedness for retirement.

And don’t forget to have fun.

This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advisor for specific advice about your circumstances. For more information on this topic, please contact your Investors Group consultant.

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Helping Kingston Families and Businesses

Protect What’s Most Important to Them

By Tori Stafford Photos Rosalyn Gambhir

When looking to the future, a top priority for many is the security and well-being of their family — something Bryce Parisotto and Shannon Bennett-Parisotto help clients with every day.

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wners and operators of Benefits Consulting Plus, Bryce and Shannon help provide local small-tomedium-sized businesses with employee benefits packages. Additionally, the couple provides the full spectrum of individual insurances, allowing business owners and their employees a single place to cover all of their insurance needs.

Beyond that, as parents of two children and dedicated Kingstonians, Bryce and Shannon are committed to helping local business owners and their employees protect what is most important to them.

“We truly build relationships with our clients,” says Shannon. “We are a familyrun operation, and our clients become like family to us.”

Bryce, an independent employee benefits consultant, opened Benefits Consulting Plus in 2010. With nearly two decades of experience in the group insurance industry, Bryce helps business owners design benefits packages that help attract and retain skilled employees. These packages not only provide security for employees and their families, but for the

business owner as well. They also protect both parties in the event of unfortunate or unforeseen circumstances.

Adding Shannon’s 15 years of experience in individual insurance to the company, Benefits Consulting Plus also covers the personal insurance needs for business owners and their employees in the areas of life, disability and critical illness insurance. The insurance products and plans individuals require are unique to each client, and help provide security for themselves and their loved ones.

“We’ve brought together those two pieces of the pie: I work with our employee benefits clients and have the specialization in those products. Shannon’s experience and knowledge is in the individual insurance products, where she helps business owners and their employees with corporate and personal insurance planning,” Bryce says. “The combination of the two of us, and the skillset that we bring on both of those insurance lines is truly valuable for our clients.”

Benefits Consulting Plus puts a large emphasis on understanding their clients’

OPPOSITE Bryce Parisotto and Shannon Bennett-Parisotto, owners Photo by Taylor Studios BUSINESS

needs, as well as making sure their clients understand how different insurance products work. Bryce and Shannon both walk their clients through a step-by-step process looking at what they want in terms of financial protection — be that for themselves, their family or their extended family of employees. With ongoing consultation and analysis, the company provides a necessary service with specialized knowledge in all areas that is shared with their clients. They continually ensure the insurance products their clients have remain the right fit for their circumstances and vision for the future.

“What is important to us is that our clients have the right insurance for their unique circumstances,” says Shannon.

“We honestly want what is best for them.”

Benefits Consulting Plus 1375 Gardiners Road Suite 101 Kingston 613.546.2282 bryce@bcpbenefits.com shannon@bcpbenefits.com www.bcpbenefits.com

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Why Businesses Should Offer Employee Benefits Photo ©iStock.com/BCPbenefits”

be designed to protect what’s most important to you.

Here are a few key reasons employee benefits are a valuable addition to your business:

Bryce Parisotto (CFP) Shannon Bennett-Parisotto (CHS) Benefits Consulting Plus 1375 Gardiners Road, Suite 101 Kingston bryce@bcpbenefits.com shannon@bcpbenefits.com www.bcpbenefits.com

tax EffiCiEnt: Group insurance is a tax efficient way to compensate your employees. The business is able to deduct the portion of the premium it paid on behalf of the employees. In addition, reimbursed health and dental expenses are tax-free to the employees.

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mployers investigating a new employee benefits plan are often impressed by the comprehensive insurance coverage and reasonable cost. From prescription drug and dental coverage to life, long-term disability and critical illness insurance, a benefits plan can

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COSt-EffECtivE: Employee benefits are a cost-effective way to provide business owners, employees and their respective families with insurance protection. The main reason employee benefits cost less is due to the risk spread amongst a group of people. Many business owners assume group insurance is too expensive and out of reach, but coverage can be very affordable. Why assume benefits are too expensive?

Instead, find a benefits specialist who will help you design a plan and obtain pricing.

A qualified benefits specialist will offer this service free of charge without any obligation to purchase.

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nOn-MEdiCal inSuranCE: Group insurance can provide coverage to those who are otherwise not insurable. That’s right — even people with a significant health history can often be covered for prescription drugs and longterm disability insurance through their benefits plan.

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attraCt and rEtain GrEat EMplOyEES: Employee turnover costs a business time and money; keeping good employees helps grow the bottom line.

Not only is a benefits package an incentive to stay with an employer but it is also an excellent way to attract new, high-quality employees. When a company offers employee benefits, it becomes a feature of their job postings. Why? Employers who offer employee benefits know its effectiveness in attracting new talent.

As in any industry, employee benefits are continuously evolving. Small and medium-sized businesses now have more plan design, administration and funding options than ever before.

Evolution enhances the need to review your plan and its overall design. If it’s been three years or longer since your last review, then it’s time! A simple review can help ensure you understand the options you currently have and guarantee your plan keeps pace with the latest trends.

Watch for next issue’s article when we review the different ways individual insurance can complement your group benefits package.

Benefits Consulting Plus Inc is an independent employee benefits and insurance advisory firm. Bryce Parisotto, CFP, works with local businesses to design and implement tailor-made employee benefits solutions. Shannon BennettParisotto, CHS, has 15 years of specialized knowledge with life, disability and critical illness insurance and works with clients on their personal and corporate insurance planning.

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Brockville: A Hidden Gem in the 1000 Islands

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ith March break fast approaching and cold weather soon behind us, it’s a great time to explore the 1000 Islands region. Only 45 minutes east, Brockville is situated halfway between Ottawa and Kingston.

Renowned for its historic, picturesque downtown and beautiful waterfront, Brockville is a real hidden gem in the 1000 Islands.

There is something for everyone in Brockville. Crystal clear waters and famous sunken ships make this area one of the best freshwater scuba diving sites in the world. The area is also the birthplace of the Canadian flag and home to Canada’s oldest railway tunnel. Brockville is looking forward to an amazing year with the highly anticipated opening of the Aquatarium, a celebration of our waterfront heritage.

Appeal to your senses and incorporate an arts, culture or history experience into your visit; take in a live theatre performance at the Brockville Arts Centre or attend one of the many festivals and events in the region.

Brockville’s downtown is alive and vibrant, offering a variety of boutiques, restaurants and shops, all located steps away from the waterfront. Whether you choose to commute by boat or vehicle, Brockville will surprise you.

Part of the charm of the area is that you can live in the country but work in the city and be all of 20 minutes apart!

Discover the spell of the Brockville. Be their guest ... you may never want to leave!

Casual Living

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ecorate from rustic to refined! The Casual Living showroom, located minutes from downtown, is filled with the best in

home and patio furniture, décor and unique gift items.

Known as Brockville’s most gifted furniture store since 1983,

Owners Ann and James Bak, joined by their son Mike, have the experience and a keen understanding of what you need to create a beautiful home. Visit Casual Living and get inspired! They will help you dream and design your living spaces... for you to enjoy! Check them out online at www.casualliving.ca

it’s a wonderful place to pick up that outstanding piece for the home or cottage, or find the perfect gift for weddings, birthdays and anniversaries.

DISCOVER BROCKVILLE FEATURE

Casual Living 75 William Street 613.345.5270 casualliving.ca

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DISCOVER BROCKVILLE FEATURE

Pauline’s Lingerie

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abulous fitting lingerie is their passion! Brand names such as Wacoal, Chantelle, Felina and Calvin Klein ensure you will find the best fitting lingerie for you.

Pauline’s has specialized in professional bra fittings for 39 years. They also carry an extensive collection of swimwear, resort wear, fine lingerie and accessories.

Open Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Pauline’s Lingerie is located in Brockville’s beautiful downtown and will quickly become your favourite lingerie shop.

Pauline’s Lingerie 156 King Street West 613.345.2244

Echo Clothing Co.

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cho Clothing Co. is up to the minute in fashion! Family owned and operated, Echo Clothing Co. is Brockville’s destination for women’s fashions and accessories.

Offering Brockville’s largest selection of Silver jeans, you will also find brand names such as Tribal, Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, Bench and Dex Brothers. You’ll love the great selection of Matt & Nat handbags, Foxy Originals jewellery, Keen footwear, Hush Puppies and Haviannas, and many unique items you won’t find anywhere else.

Create your own personal style for work or play in this boutique filled with big-city fashions and accessories.

Echo Clothing Co. 83 King Street West 613.342.3443

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Bud’s on the Bay

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hen you walk into Bud’s on the Bay you immediately know you’re going to want to come back. Built in the late 1800s as a private residence, the building still retains many of its original features The rooftop patio at Bud’s on the Bay is arguably the best spot in Brockville to sit and have a drink while checking out summer festivities. As Brockville’s only waterfront patio, it’s also a great place to enjoy the spring breeze or the fall sunshine.

Whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch or an inviting dinner, the menu will inspire you to return.

Bud’s on the Bay 17 Broad Street 613.345.4341 budsonthebay.com

Hang Ups Creative Picture Framing

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ang Ups Creative Picture Framing, Brockville’s bestkept secret, is so much more than a framing store.

Located in a turn-of-the-century building in historic downtown, there are two levels of unique and inspired gifts.

Local artisan pieces, Canadian-made treats and jewellery, and beautifully framed art await your discovery.

Hang Ups has been Brockville’s choice for professional framing for 20 years, and has become a destination for finding that perfect gift.

Hang Ups Creative Picture Framing 24 St. Andrew Street 613.345.5382 hangupspictureframing.com

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Heritage Clock Shop

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tep back in time and enjoy old-fashioned personal service at the Heritage Clock Shop in beautiful historic downtown Brockville. A third-generation family owned business, Heritage Clock Shop repairs and restores almost any type of clock or watch, old and new, and specialize in vintage timepieces from pocket watches to grandfather clocks.

They will inspect your clock or watch and provide you with detailed information regarding the repair. In store estimates are free of charge and overhauls are guaranteed for one full year. House calls are available for grandfather clock repairs.

Heritage Clock Shop also has a large selection of new clocks, including chiming wall and mantel clocks and grandfather clocks, which make great gifts for weddings, anniversaries and corporate service and safety awards.

They have more than 800 watches to choose from, including quality brand name watches by Citizen, Bulova, Roots and Cardinal.

Heritage Clock Shop: “Where we always have time for you.”

112 King Street West 613.498.0175 Toll free: 1.866.498.0175 www.heritageclockshop.com

BONITA BOLD FASHION

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ince opening in November 2014, Bonita Bold Fashion have enjoyed getting to know the receptive and excited shoppers who frequent their store.

Word of mouth has travelled quickly, as customers have enjoyed their experience at the store. Not only has the quality of the clothes and their sophisticated uniqueness helped to spread the word and create a loyal customer base, but so has the knowledgeable and friendly staff. Trained to dress all body types, customers often leave with items they’d never have thought to try on. Staff are helpful and honest in a non-intrusive way, which creates a calm, pleasant environment. ¨We want you to leave having enjoyed the experience and feeling great,” says part-owner Lorna Thain-Segu. ¨Every customer is an ambassador, and so having them feel and look great is important.¨ Bonita Bold Fashion 7 King Street West 613.342.6565 bonitabold.com TOP LEFT, LORNA

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Brockberry Grill & Suites

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ome in and “Treat Yourself” to a casual dining experience at a reasonable price. Then, spend the night in one of their full efficiency suites.

Brockberry Grill & Suites is located in historic downtown Brockville, along the St. Lawrence River in the heart of Eastern Ontario.

This well-known eatery is popular for its entrée salad offerings, gourmet burgers and crepes. On summer weekends, weather permitting, they fire up the BBQ on the patio and serve patrons features from the grill. Menu highlights include, Bourbon grilled beef tenderloin brochettes, steamed mussels with chorizo and Alaskan king crab in a butter chardonnay garlic broth.

Reservations recommended!

Brockberry Grill-Suites 64 King St. East 613.498.2829 brockberry.com

Maplehurst Manor & Carriage House

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aplehurst is a magnificent Georgian mansion overlooking the beautiful St. Lawrence River. Completed in 1829 by an English Lord, Maplehurst is considered one of the areas premier properties, providing guests a peaceful setting in the renowned charm of the 1000 Islands area.

Maplehurst is a B&B offering five Victorian-style bedrooms complete with all modern conveniences. The Carriage House and Courtyard offer a unique intimate facility for weddings or private and corporate events. Maplehurst also offers catering for in and out of house functions.

“Treat Yourself” when visiting the Brockville area with a relaxing get away or book Maplehurst to host your upcoming event.

Maplehurst 1258 County Road 2, Maitland 613.348.1829 maplehurst.ca

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1000 Islands/Mille-ﾃ四es

EXPLORE, DISCOVER and EXPERIENCE the 1000 Islands like never before!

1000islandscruises.com Traditional boat tours or thrill-seeking adventure rides in the 1000 Islands!

brockvilleartscentre.com World Class Venue World Class Entertainment!

aquatarium.ca Showcasing all the incredible experiences the 1000 Islands has to offer!!

For special packages visit 1000islandsbrockville.com | 1.888.251.7676

BEAUTY is A PoWERFUl THing.

coming soon - The All new

2016 cAdillAc cTs - V Make your double take a fast one. Every curve, edge and line of CTS-V was deliberately chosen to ensure the best aerodynamic results. Its exclusive V grille and hood and fender vents maximize airflow. And finely tuned quad exhaust announces your arrival.

2440 Princess Street Kingston 613-549-1311 taylorautomall.com