Fine Lifestyles Kingston Winter 2014 by Fine Lifestyles

FineLifestyles WINTER 2014 | VOLUME 1 ISSUE 5

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INDEPENDENT BOUTIQUES: DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS WITH THE KINGSTON SYMPHONY THE “GREAT” ROOM FineLifestyles

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FIRST WORD With Fine Lifestyles editor KATRINA GEENEVASEN

n behalf of everyone at Fine Lifestyles Kingston, I would like to extend to all of our readers warm wishes for a happy holiday season. It’s hard to believe how quickly time has passed since we published our first issue in the Limestone City one year ago.

FineLifestyles KINGSTON

www.finelifestyles.ca Winter 2014 Volume 1, Issue 5 Editor Katrina Geenevasen katrinag@finelifestyles.ca Art Direction Amber Moon (Senior), Lisa Redden (Associate) Design Natasha Burkholder, Candace Haiko

Since then, we’ve come to truly understand just what makes our city one of the best in the world. We know it’s a slightly biased opinion, but it’s true! It’s been a blessing throughout the past 12 months to tell you about hidden gems throughout the city, and to celebrate those that have been well loved for years. Rest assured, 2015 will be no different.

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

Do you have an eye for the latest trends and a love for independent boutiques? You’ll love our feature on this very topic. Are you seeking alternate ways to treat or manage a medical condition? Be sure to check out the last installment of our three-part series on The World of Alternative Health. If you enjoy the sweeter side of life, you’ll enjoy reading Kim Meathrel’s latest column on ice wines.

Cover Photography Stephen Wild

This issue, our cover story features Investors Group. Since 1926, this company has helped Canadians plan for the future by providing quality financial planning advice and products through a network of consultants. With a firm belief that building long-term relationships with clients is the best way to help individuals reach their financial goals at each stage of their lives, Investors Group has become one of Canada’s largest and most respected companies. As 2014 comes to a close, we are all getting ready to welcome the many changes the new year will bring. I’ll be undergoing a big change of my own as I navigate the new world of motherhood come the end of January. I promise Fine Lifestyles Kingston will be in great hands while I’m away and that during my leave, my passion for this great city will not be dimmed.

Contributing Writers Ashliegh Gehl, Ken Beattie, Kim Meathrel

Photography Stephen Wild, Jen Fitzpatrick, Matthew English 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

Happy Holidays, Kingston!

Katrina

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.

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Cathie Watson Associate Publisher cathie@finelifestyles.ca 613.453.5697

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Jacqui Lysco jacquil@finelifestyles.ca 613.213.3145

Jacqui Fitzgerald jacquif@finelifestyles.ca 613.484.3728

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14 78

CONTENTS STYLE ............................................6 HEALTH AND WELLNESS........58 ARTS, DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT.......................77 SPORTS, RECREATION AND TRAVEL .............................93 HOUSE AND HOME...................98 BUSINESS...................................123

WHEELS......................................139

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE: Independent Boutiques................................14 CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS with the Kingston Symphony....................78 THE “GREAT” ROOM.....................................98 COVER STORY: Investors Group...............................................126

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THE UNDENIABLE

ALLURE of Gemstones By Trina Annand

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arilyn Monroe famously sang Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend, but it was only in the 1930s that De Beers began an aggressive marketing campaign to increase the stone’s popularity. With crystal clear white diamonds flooding the market, many people are turning to uniquely coloured diamonds and precious gemstones to create pieces as unique as their wearers. rUBY Traditionally known as July’s birthstone, this crimson beauty has been mined in Myanmar since 600 AD. More recently, rubies have been discovered in Madagascar and under the receding glaciers of Greenland, yielding stones of astounding sizes. For centuries, the gem has been associated with strength, royalty and wealth. Rubies larger than five carats are so rare and prized that the most expensive ruby ever sold went for more than $3.6 million in 2006, greatly overshadowing white diamond prices at $425,000 a carat. Rubies have also been the traditional choice of royalty. Sarah Duchess of York received a Burmese ruby engagement ring and Queen Elizabeth II’s ruby tiara incorporates 96 stones, given to her by the Burmese people for her wedding in 1947. The precious gemstone ranges in colour from blood red and pink to pigeon’s blood — which is the most valuable and features a blue tone. The crimson colour of this stone symbolizes undying passion and courage, the perfect gift for any man or woman.

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sapphirE Historically worn by royalty as a symbol of good fortune, virtue and wisdom, this September birthstone is most known for its dark blue colour. However, the stones can also be found in orange, purple, green and an almost coral pink colour called Padparadscha (lotus flower), which is the most valuable. In 1997, the world’s largest sapphire, at more than 61,000-carats, was discovered in Madagascar. Named the Millennium Sapphire, it is currently valued at $180 million. The stone was carved featuring the evolution of human history, with representations of historic figures like Christopher Columbus, Mozart, Newton, Shakespeare and Albert Einstein. Legendary beauty Helen of Troy was reputed to draw her power from a large star sapphire and Jean Harlow and Elizabeth Taylor both collected the stones. More recently, sapphires made headlines due to Kate Middleton’s stunning 18-carat engagement ring, securing Prince William’s wife as a fashion plate the world round. Often associated with stability, sapphires are the perfect centrepiece to a modern setting.

EmEralds Mined in Egypt since 1500 BC, emeralds were used to great effect by Cleopatra to emphasize and solidify her royal status. Unlike diamonds, there is no such thing as a flawless emerald; each stone has its own inclusions that make it one-of-a-kind and allow gemologists to trace the stone back to its original mine. The gemstone can be found around the world and was even discovered in the Yukon in 1997, for those looking for a uniquely Canadian piece. Depending on where emeralds are harvested, they can range in colour from a deep green to a misty mint. Often noted as the May birthstone, the subtle glow of the emerald wowed Spanish conquistadores.

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Emeralds feature prominently in the world’s most expensive tiara. At 500 carats, the headpiece sold for more than $14 million at Sotheby’s. Recently, the stone has graced the red carpet on celebrities including Angelina Jolie, Victoria Beckham and Uma Thurman. Encapsulating enduring love, luck and intelligence, the emerald is the ultimate statement piece for a truly unique person. Whether you have that perfect engagement ring, an heirloom statement piece or a small token of affection in mind, the beauty and symbolism of precious stones have entranced people for centuries. With rubies, sapphires and emeralds, jewelry can go from ordinary to extraordinary.

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FiancĂŠe Jewellers 216 Princess Street, Kingston 613.542.8112 fianceejewellers.ca

Family-owned business since 1982

Create An EVERLASTING BOND By Rebecca Henderson

Loss is one of the hardest facets of life. We let go of those we loved and lost, but we never let go in our hearts where their memories live and inspire us every day. We live on, sensing their presence in the most minor things we encounter, but what if there were a piece of them we could physically hold — like a piece of jewelry? With Heart in Diamond, there is. For Kingstonians Michael Tkautz and Regan Campbell, Heart In Diamond’s president and vice-president, the loss of their loved ones inspired a desire to create a piece of memorabilia to wear every day of the year. Campbell’s grandfather, Mike Regan, who owned and operated Regan Coach Lines and Tours, passed away in November

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2013. When Campbell returned from university, he inherited his grandfather’s diamond ring. “To me, it’s a priceless family heirloom that I can always remember him by. When I was a kid, I remember seeing it as he washed his hands after a long day’s work. Now it’s with me always and I want to provide this feeling to anyone who desires it.”

Tkautz, who was in school for business, lost his father Manfred, a secondary school teacher at Q.E.C.V.I., to stage four cancer in February, 2013. “It was devastating,” he recalls. “It began in his lungs and eventually spread to his liver, spine and hip.” Classmates since Grade 3, the two friends decided to become Heart In

Diamond distributors. “We really have a lot of passion for this business, and we are grateful to be able to honour our loved ones in this progressive way,” says Tkautz. “This is why we wanted to be our first customers — we believe in the product and what it signifies; the beauty in the memory of a lost loved one and beauty in celebration of those that are still with us.” Heart in Diamond cultures these diamonds by using graphite derived from your personal carbon sample. Under strictly controlled conditions, they use temperatures exceeding 2000°C and over 60,000 atmospheres of pressure to grow

your personal diamond. The diamonds can take two to three months to complete, which is the fastest turnaround time on the market. The personalized Heart In Diamond is a 100 per cent real diamond with exactly the same optical, physical and chemical properties as earth-grown diamonds. The same four characteristics also apply when grading its diamonds like colour, clarity, cut and carat. Each diamond is created in the vision of the one who wear it — from the colour and cut to the meaning — and linked to your

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loved one at its very core. “Diamonds are indestructible — like the memories we preserve of our family,” says Tkautz. “It’s a way to cherish the person you lost and be able to feel their presence by looking down at your hand. Losing someone you cared about deeply is a sensitive subject. We always place ourselves in the client’s shoes.” In terms of colour, says Campbell, some choose the colour of their loved one’s eyes, other choose it based on their favorite colour. Each colour represents a different meaning at Heart In Diamond. Red is the warmest of colours, representing prosperity and joy. It symbolizes a passionate love between you and whom you wear it for. Orange is the colour of healing and vitality — a colour meant to reflect the process of moving on and making your heart whole again. Green symbolizes nature, fertility and life. Blue, the coolest colour, represents the sky, ocean and inspiration. White is kindness, ruled by the moon and a symbol of protection for whenever there is darkness present. A colour is a reflection of the one you love, and it should radiate aspects of that person’s personality and character. However, it can also be of your

choosing, whether it was a moment you cherished or simply a hue you want to remember them by. When you receive your personal Heart In Diamond, it will have gone through a strict quality control and grading process, and contain an authenticity certificate containing all the details regarding your diamond. The entire process is also carefully tracked and the customer can access this tracking system at any time to see at which stage in the process their diamond is currently in. This is to ensure that the diamond you receive is of the calibre you expect it to be. It’s also an aspect that Campbell and Tkautz take very seriously. “It’s critical to hold onto these pieces of life,” says Tkautz. “I’ve created one for my dad and granddad, so I can hold them close to me. It can be a family ring that’s passed down to my kids. For me, it’s also a reminder of why I’m in this business and why family is so important.” With Heart In Diamond, jewelry doesn’t necessarily have to symbolize loss. It can also symbolize birth, celebration, special events and pets. “With these diamonds, it’s a gift that can’t be recreated,” says Campbell. L-R Michael Tkautz and Regan Campbell (Photo by Amanda Garreau)

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The jewelry is not limited to rings; the diamonds can be set into earrings and pendants, as well. Every diamond can also come in three different cuts — brilliant, which is a circular shape; princess, which is a square shape; and radiant, which is a rectangular shape with curved corners. “It’s an extremely timeless and precious thing [to transform] a piece of your loved one into something that is tangible, with real beauty and value that can be passed down from generation to generation.” says Tkautz. Heart In Diamond was founded in 2005 and has since become a leading and world-renowned UK-based company. It employs scientists who continuously follow only the best and most reliable practices to create a diamond worthy of your loved one’s memory. For families looking into acquiring a Heart In Diamond, the director of business will sit down and talk about the company’s options to preserve a loved one’s memory into a beautiful diamond. The director will then contact Campbell and Tkautz, Heart In Diamond distributors, to begin the preparations to create a one-of-a-kind diamond. “We respect the relationships funeral professionals build with their families, so we don’t get involved with the sales unless the customer requests it,” explains Campbell. “If someone is interested in the product, we are happy to provide the service for them. However, if there are any questions, the family can always call us for support or more information on our certified partners.”

Heart In Diamond Regan Campbell and Michael Tkautz Kingston 1.800.957.6605 info@heart-in-diamond.ca www.heart-in-diamond.ca

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Boutique Shopping

The Difference is in the Experience By Tori Stafford

here is no denying the plethora of different ways to shop — department stores, outlet malls, online ... the list goes on. But among the many ways to find apparel, shoes, jewelry and accessories, there is one that offers an experience all its own: boutique shopping. The small, independent boutiques of the world create an eclectic array of shopping experiences, each one unique, yet similar in that they offer an experience different to those encountered in larger, corporate clothing stores and department stores. Here in Kingston, that difference can be experienced throughout the city thanks to a rich selection of independently-owned and operated boutiques, each catering to a different need and clientele in their own special way. “The main thing that makes that difference is the experience. It is the feel, it’s the places that you know and the things that you can get that you can’t get anywhere else,” says Bill Stewart, advocacy and policy development specialist with the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce. The difference comes down to two things that create this overall boutique shopping experience: selection and service. Selection Each independent fashion boutique offers an entirely different selection of items, each “edited and curated for the clients we serve,” says Jim Adams, co-owner of Chris

James. Drawing from a long list of suppliers, those who own independent boutiques have the chance to truly shop for their clientele — both generally and specifically, Adams explains. “We aren’t buying for Canada, we are buying for Kingston,” he says. “Sometimes I will buy things with a specific customer in mind, even. If I see something I know a client will love, I will get it and then I will let them know I have something in the store I think they’re going to love.” With each boutique creating their own array of items, no two are the same — which means you’re sure to find something different in each and every store. Service When it comes to service in independent boutiques, as Adams points out, the person a customer is interacting with on the floor may very well be the business owner. But even if it isn’t, chances are the person you interact with in a boutique is incredibly knowledgeable about the products and eager to ensure your experience is a good one. “I think the one thing that separates boutiques from department stores is the service, for sure. That personalized service, where you know the person that comes in the door, you can help them, you have a relationship with them,” says Joanne Angelis, coowner of House of Angelis. “The people who work in boutiques want to interact with their clientele and are always striving to find ways to serve them better.”

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INDEPENDENT BOUTIQUES

Professionally

STYLED

FROM HEAD to

TOE By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

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any women experience the panicked chaos that can happen when trying to find the perfect outfit,

when nothing seems just right. A skirt goes on, it doesn’t match the shoes, and gets tossed on the bed; the top doesn’t work with the bra, so it all gets strewn around the room. Suddenly, every piece of jewelry in the box is tangled together, there is no way you can wear the shirt you’d planned on, frustration and anxiety have taken over...and you’re already late.

When it comes to fashion, knowing you are ready for anything is a comfort few have the privilege of finding in the form of their own personal stylist. But here in Kingston, for the woman on-the-go who is too busy to worry about what she will wear to tomorrow’s fundraiser or on next week’s flight to Europe, this comfort is found in “the girls” at House of Angelis

The Girls As they are lovingly referred to by their regular clientele, “the girls,” Maria and Joanne Angelis are seasoned professional

stylists, armed with the ability and the know-how to create the perfect outfit, suitcase or wardrobe for the women who walk through their doors. Inside their fashion emporium, formed by the amalgamation of their three former businesses (Cybil Scott, Catwalk, and Coquetta Lingerie), Maria and Joanne are surrounded by beautiful clothing, footwear, accessories and lingerie. After years of running independent businesses, studying women’s fashion the world over, and working hands-on

ABOVE L-R Joanne Angelis, Maria Angelis, Vaso Angelis FineLifestyles

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INDEPENDENT BOUTIQUES

with women to style them from head to toe, the two sisters have everything a woman needs to create the perfect outfit for any occasion — all under one roof. From putting together the ideal look for a specific function, to packing luggage for their clients traveling overseas, and even taking clothing apart to make them fit flawlessly, there are not many fashion situations the sisters cannot remedy. “We’ve had women come in frantic because they need an outfit for a backyard barbecue in half an hour but have no idea what to wear,” Maria says. “All the time, we have women leave with the clothing they wore into the store in a bag and an entirely new outfit on...our customer’s know they can count on us to help put something together quickly that looks amazing, but is also comfortable and appropriate.”

silk scarves to tie it all together, the pair can make any outfit complete. But what’s more is they are skilled at helping clients make those outfits their own.

to buy them, but I make a note so I can point them towards the things I think they might like. I also keep my eyes open for items clients have asked me to look for.”

“If a customer comes in with a dress she purchased elsewhere and wants help styling, that is fine with us,” Maria expresses.

With an in-house seamstress and the sisters’ passion for perfect pairings, it’s easy for Maria and Joanne to take the stress of dressing away from their clients. This allows customers at House of Angelis to focus on the things they enjoy.

“Exactly, that is what we are here for,” adds Joanne, famous for her ability to correctly fit a bra in 20 minutes. “We have even had a client bring in her wedding dress. This allowed her to actually have the dress on while trying shoes, undergarments and accessories to go with it. When she’d made the decisions, that was it — she didn’t have to worry about it again, even on her big day!”

Tailored Head-to-Toe

If the shoe fits...

Because both sisters work with their clients regularly, their roles as stylists carry over into purchasing, Maria explains.

When a client has an outfit, but they don’t know how to style it, Maria and Joanne act as stylist superheroes. With an array of stunning designer shoes, boots and handbags, and sparkling baubles and

“When I place an order, it is covered with names of the clients I think would be interested in those particular items,” she says. “Of course, they are not obliged

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“A lot of our customers are very busy women,” says Joanne. “If putting together an outfit isn’t easy for them, we can take away that burden. At the end of the day, every woman that comes in wants to look and feel wonderful, and that’s exactly what we want, too.” Models Megan Dunbar and Sydney Miller provided by Kingston’s SoHo Management. House of Angelis 63 & 65 Brock Street Kingston 613.544.9721 info@houseofangelis.ca www.houseofangelis.ca

Light up THE NIGHT.

Sterling silver charms from $29

Introducing the new 2014 Winter Collection from PANDORA

216 Princess Street Downtown Kingston (Beside the Grand Theatre)

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A Boutique Clothing Experience

As UniqUe As YoU Are By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

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 expertize in dressing both genders with style, taste and class.

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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 our focus as menswear,” says Bratt, noting the unique arrangement allows for an even more unique environment and experience. “It’s a very open and connected store.” The Chris James DifferenCe Whether walking into Chris James as a first-time customer or as a long-

time 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

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perfection in ways most stores cannot. Because the store puts a special emphasis on carrying some of the very best Canadian designer lines, special requests and custom orders are easily met, says Adams, noting most orders can be in-store within 24 hours. Even the most particular and specific client requests are met with discerning service, Bratt explains. “Because we deal with a number of Canadian designers that we’ve built relationships with over the years, if a customer likes a particular blazer, but they’d prefer it in a different fabric, we can actually make that happen,” she says. “Or if a gentleman who is six-foot-nine comes in, we can place a call for a long pant or jacket and have it in store in days.”

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

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in mind,” she says. “When the items roll in, it’s generally a personal phone call.” “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.” Adding to this experience, Chris James can offer customization and tailored

CJ PreferreD Because Chris James offers everything from casualwear to professional work attire — as well as formalwear, outerwear and all of the accessories to complete an outfit — many of their clients return again and again to fill any number of attire needs. To reward those loyal customers and offer them an even more customized service, the store offers the CJ Preferred program. Earning clients both savings and rewards with every purchase, the program allows customers to accumulate points, which are translated in to Rewards Dollars once annually. The more points a customer accumulates, the more special offers and rewards they receive, as they move up in the programs levels. With no

cost to sign up, the program also helps Chris James to serve their clients more completely and succinctly, all while points are accumulating and the client is being kept abreast of all the latest Chris James happenings, Bratt explains. “The program tracks all of your purchases, so I can look up sizes or past purchases in a second,” she says. “If a client calls and says, ‘I have just ripped my shirt and I have a meeting in a half hour,’ all I need to know is what colour he needs, and I can look up his size, and have it sent up to his office right away. Or when Dec. 24 rolls around and someone needs an extra gift, we can always help find the right item in the right size.” WarDrobe DeveloPmenT A program created by Adams to help men advance their collection of items to be both functional and fashion-forward, the Wardrobe Development Program at Chris James allows men to compile the pieces they need for daily life. At the same time, customer loyalty is rewarded in savings, thus allowing the male clients at Chris James to build a wardrobe of items that work together and work for them. Based on the purchasing patterns complementary to the male wardrobe, the program has four different elements: suiting, dress shirts, dress pants and ties. If a client is looking for a new suit or sport coat and pant combination, they save $100 off the entire purchase. If they are looking to update the collection of shirts they wear to work, the second shirt they purchase is half price — as is the case with dress pants or ties. This allows the men who shop at Chris James to develop a wardrobe quickly, and with the advice of the professionals they know they can trust. “It is a program really born out of the way that men shop,” says Bratt. “And now that we are offering shoes to complete the wardrobe, we are really a one-stop shop. And most men appreciate that. Like our stylist services, which are offered free of charge, it’s just another way we try to make our customers’ experience special every time they come in.” RIGHT Christine Bratt co-owner and Jim Adams, co-owner

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

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Showcasing Canadian Made Jewellery and Creating Custom Works of Art By Trina Annand Photos Stephen Wild

n a world filled with mass-produced jewellery focused more on brand than quality, it can be hard to find unique pieces that express your personal style. For 30 years, Metalworks Contemporary Jewellery and Goldsmithing has been hand selecting one-of-a-kind jewellery created by Canadian jewellers and metalsmiths, bringing the nation’s best to Kingston. Offering handmade artisanal jewellery allows Metalworks to promote and educate their clients on the high quality of Canadian jewellery. Featuring the work of 30 designers, Metalworks creates an unparalleled selection for

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clients — whether their style is rugged and organic or highly polished with a more traditional edge. “Art enhances the quality of our lives, whether it is a painting, a well-designed building or a beautiful piece of jewellery. These pieces of jewellery are not baubles, they help people commemorate special moments in a meaningful and personal way,” says manager and jewellery artist Vicki Westgate. Another unique element to Metalworks’ approach is the four jewellery designers on site, allowing clients to meet the makers of their favourite pieces, plan custom work to celebrate a special

occasion and even repurpose existing jewellery into a new piece. Each custom piece from Metalworks is a unique work of art fashioned in precious metals that will never be duplicated by the artist. The decades of experience at Metalworks ensures clients get the breathtaking piece they seek. Steve Luckwaldt, owner and resident master goldsmith, has been creating jewellery and turning dreams into reality for over 40 years. Working in platinum, 18-karat yellow gold, 19-karat white gold and Canadian diamonds, the artist is the perfect choice for unique engagement rings and wedding bands.

Vicki Westgate specializes in contemporary bracelets, necklaces and earrings featuring unique pearls and handmade silver clasps. The designer’s pieces exude a casual elegance perfect for special occasions as well as everyday wear. Rebecca Geoffrey, resident silversmith, specializes in enameling, custom etching and Keum Boo — an ancient Korean gilding technique. Geoffrey creates striking pieces that use contrasting colours and textures to evoke a timeless quality for her clients. Emily Wojna, an award-winning goldsmith, creates custom works focusing on superb inlays, hand-cut stones and beautiful gemstones. Her most recent accolade was the City of Barrie Princess Royal Award, a commission for which she created a custom bracelet for Princess Anne.

“We have generations of clients that come to us year after year because they appreciate the workmanship of the Canadian-made jewellery we carry. It’s really special to make people’s dreams come to fruition and to be a part of their lives for all their special occasions,” says Westgate. With new stock arriving regularly, clients get the chance to explore the nation’s art scene without taking a gallery tour and have the ability to make the art theirs. With boundless expertise, one-of-a-kind items and outstanding customer service, Metalworks is the perfect place to find a gift or simply treat yourself to something ornate. Metalworks Contemporary Jewellery and Goldsmithing 352 King Street, Kingston 613.544.5078 www.metalworkskingston.com

ABOVE BOTTOM LEFT Vicki Westgate and Rebecca Geoffrey, designers FineLifestyles

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Very Fresh, Very Fun, Very Shari

By Katrina Geenevasen Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

t has been 24 years since Shari Ginsberg made her debut on the Kingston retail scene, introducing Kingstonians to an eclectic world filled with whimsy and delight. All these years later, Very Shari — a Limestone City landmark — continues to make its mark on the independent boutique scene. It’s exactly what Ginsberg — who lost her battle with cancer earlier this year — would have wanted. “Shari brought to Kingston something very unique, something very beautiful,” says Karin Pleming, store manager. “She was so well-known on the Kingston landscape and we could not let that go. We could not give that up. We at Very Shari are part of the community. It was really important to us to keep her name here, and to keep what she did alive.” Together, Pleming and Gary West, Ginsberg’s partner, have kept Ginberg’s bright spirit thriving, continuing to fill the unique store — located in the Reddendale Plaza — with everything from home decor, incense and jewelry, to distinctive clothing, healing stones and greeting cards. “From the simple, to the obscure, we have it,” says Pleming, polishing a silver pendant with care. Over the years, the Very Shari team has come to know their clients and what they want and are looking for. “I always say our customers are not just customers; they’re our friends, or friends we have not met yet,” says Pleming. “When people come in, I’ll get to know what they’re interested in. We really purchase stock to satisfy our customers’ tastes.” While Very Shari does get curious new faces peeking in every day, the clients who return time and time again speak to the amazing service and expertise the store offers. Pleming, who has an infectious smile and positively upbeat attitude,

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is clearly a natural ‘people person’ and genuinely loves what she does. Her knowledge is vast, and she loves to share it with customers. Whether she’s demonstrating the beautiful, arresting sound of a singing bowl, or talking about the various gemstones and their healing properties, Pleming thrives on providing unsurpassed customer service and unique goods. While no stop at Very Shari is complete without a full exploration of the store, the cabinets filled with one-of-a-kind pendants deserve special attention. “They’re beautiful! They’re just absolutely amazing — they’re all so unique,” says Pleming enthusiastically. “And your next door neighbour won’t have the same one,” adds West. Whether you’re looking for softlycoloured rose quartz, the stone of unconditional love, or malachite, a protective, grounding stone, Very Shari

has what you need. “We have anything you can imagine here,” says Pleming, plucking a gorgeous, golden-hued citrine pendant from the display case to demonstrate her point. Within minutes of entering the store, it’s easy to see why and how Very Shari has become such a well-loved Kingston treasure. There’s no stopping this littleboutique-that-could — Pleming and West will make sure of it. Customers will always find something in this store that they never knew they needed, and will always be a friend. Says Pleming, “I want them to love this store as much as we do, and to make it their home, too.” ABOVE Karin Pleming, store manager; Gary West, owner; Nicky Kerr, sales associate.

Very Shari 714 Front Road, Kingston 613.531.7818 veryshari.weebly.com/

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Unique Finds at cloth By Ashliegh Gehl Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

love of Kingston’s history, culture and beauty inspired Cheryl Walker to open a unique and affordable clothing store in the city’s core. cloth opened in the fall of 2013 and with it came a stunning variety of fine fashions, colourful winter apparel, timeless tunics and cosy knits. There are racks stacked with seasonal accessories — an evergreen tree swathed in wooden ornaments, friendly snowmen guarding mittens. “I have a unique selection,” says Cheryl. “The first thing you see when you walk in is how vast the selection is. There are a lot of Canadian-made items. It’s one of those stores where there’s a lot to look at.” About 20 per cent of cloth’s inventory is made in Canada. Cheryl stocks Robert Kitchen — a Canadian designer who produces classy, elegant and casual clothing. In Kingston, this line is exclusive to cloth. The store also carries Purna, a line that’s made in Quebec and stands out from the crowd. She says these unique capes and jackets are top quality, and you won’t find them in many shops. cloth also carries Outdoor Survival Canada — a line of parkas made to withstand the toughest Canadian winter. On those bone-chilling mornings, when the wind is coming off the lake, this is the kind of winter wear you want in your closet. It can withstand -40 degrees and has a lifetime warranty. It’s also filled with 100 per cent white goose-down, is machine washable, and comes in an assortment of colours and sizes. Cheryl stocks a variety of sizes, from petite to plus size. “People love our Canadian-made items,” she says. “It’s great! It’s very important that we carry these items. I try to buy as much Canadian as I can.”

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Cheryl brings 30 years of business experience to cloth and prides herself on maintaining a good working relationship with all her suppliers. “That’s my strong suit,” she says. “Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to meet many suppliers. I have a good relationship with them. My customers get to take advantage of that. I know where to get everything — and at the right price.” Cheryl has a no-pressure sales approach, which is a blessing for the leisurely shopper who wants nothing more than to gingerly peruse from rack to table without being rushed. Making the perfect purchase takes time, especially during the holidays. A lot of thought and care goes into finding the right gift. cloth also has an incredible refund policy. Any item can be refunded, with no questions asked, within one week of purchase. And after that one week, even if the bill is missing, the item can be exchanged. There are a lot of perks to being a regular customer at cloth. On the store’s website there’s an opportunity for shoppers to sign up for the store’s newsletter. It’s how Cheryl announces events, sales and new stock. During customer appreciation nights, Cheryl gives away wine, treats, $2,000 worth of prizes, additional discounts, and free scarves. cloth is more than a store — it’s a community. BELOW Cheryl Walker, owner. Models Jessica Hoekstra and Rudie Jimenez provided by Mode Elle Model & Talent Agency.

cloth 131 Princess Street, Kingston 613.542.2777 info@clothclothing.ca clothclothing.ca

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Find Your Style at

Felicity&Fritz By Melanie Furlong Photos Stephen Wild

elicity&Fritz is a fun place to shop. That’s because staff at this downtown Kingston boutique shop with you just as they would with their best friends. “We’re honest, make suggestions and have fun!” says owner Bessie Nikolopoulos. “We don’t push or pressure. We aren’t pushing anything because if we ‘sell’ our client on something they don’t like, why would they ever come back?” The boutique opened in 2008 featuring shoes, handbags and accessories and has now expanded to include apparel. “We try to have a mix of popular and up-andcoming brands,” says Nikolopoulos. “We choose styles that are trending in fashion, but the Felicity&Fritz girl is one who wants something different. She doesn’t want to see other girls wearing the same thing, which is why whatever we bring in, we bring in limited quantities so our girl can feel that level of exclusivity.” Customer Deb Ellison says, “I love Felicity&Fritz. I have bought a few pairs of shoes, jewelry and a coat there and am tickled over my purchases. Quality

Felicity &Fritz

Carries shoes from Enzo, Michael Kors, Cole Haan, Anne Klein, Hush Puppies and Easy Spirit. Their European brand shoes include Felmini, Spiral, Tamaris, Fidji and Un Tour en Ville. Their bags come from Nine West, Anne Klein, High Fashion and Cole Haan, while clothing lines include Cole Haan, Naya, Tricotto, Leo Guy, French Connection, Pink Martini and many others.

merchandise, friendly and efficient service and great deals. Can’t go wrong with that combination.” Nikolopoulos is pleased to receive such feedback because their No. 1 goal is to make their customers happy. “So often now, you go shopping and the concept of customer service is totally lost,” she says. “We greet our customers and really listen to what they are after.” One of Nikolopoulos’ favourite quotes is by Valentino, who said, “I know what women want. They want to be beautiful.” “That is why I love what I do,” she says. “Women are busy, now more than ever, and if my little store of shoes and clothing can give a mom, a businesswoman, a student, or a grandmother a moment to themselves to feel beautiful, it’s all worth it to me.” Felicity&Fritz also tries to make a difference in the community by supporting local charities and university organizations such as Queen’s student events, Kingston General Hospital, the Greek Orthodox Church, Empire Life and the Limestone Learning Foundation by raising money or donating product. The Lola jeans they carry donate $1 to The Breast Cancer Foundation for every pair of jeans sold. Nikolopoulos says, “Paying it forward feels just as good as a new handbag or pair of shoes.” Felicity & Fritz 127 Princess Street Kingston 613.549.7463

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Ever Wanted to Play With Fire? By Trina Annand Photos Stephen Wild

he right jewellery can be as timeless and integral to a person’s look as his or her favourite shirt or signature glasses. These pieces are not just personal statements of style, they often serve to mark the special moments that punctuate a lifetime. At Alchemy House Jewellery, Talia Pennachetti and Miranda Scott, who believe jewellery should be unique and artistic, expertly craft each piece of jewellery on-site. “One of the things that drew me to jewellery making was the fact that it is a lasting object. It’s timeless and

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can carry your memory on through the generations,” says Pennachetti. Alchemy House Jewellery is a retail shop, classroom and studio. Offering jewellery making classes seemed like a natural step for the duo. “Jewellery making is one of the arts where you can still do it largely with hand tools, giving it a very nostalgic feel. I personally get a lot of satisfaction from working with my hands to create something that is both practical and artistic,” says Scott. Whether they have previous jewellery experience or not,

students can spread their creative wings in the beginners’ class. In January, they’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of an open studio. An offshoot of these classes is the wedding band workshop, where participants can handcraft their own symbol of love, as a couple or individually, for a unique surprise on the big day. “Wedding bands are a symbol of eternity and it’s a very special and personal experience to be able to make them for each other,” shares Scott.

Whether visitors are perusing Alchemy House Jewellery’s readymade options or are envisioning a custom-made piece, the inviting space allows them to see the jewellers at work and truly connect with them. “We both really love what we do and hope it translates into our pieces. We are happy to work within customers’ budgets, creating an alternative and unique custom work. Custom jewellery is within anyone’s reach,” says Pennachetti. This passion also translates into the store’s material sourcing, which provides sustainable resources like recycled metals and labcreated ethical gemstones used in the pair’s work. Minimizing the negative ecological effects of the jewellery-making process is just another day at at the office for the creative team behind Alchemy House Jewellery, who are focused on the future. “Alchemists were curious and creative people and that’s what we consider ourselves to be,” says Scott. This atmosphere provides a true feeling of creativity that permeates the air, inspiring guests with the team’s innate passion jewellery making. In their studio space, visitors can find the raw elegance and texture of Scott’s work juxtaposed with the subtle detail and flowing lines of Pennachetti’s work. With a soon-to-be released men’s jewellery line, Alchemy House Jewellery is the perfect stop for all your gifting needs. “We look to create pieces that complete a person’s personality and become a part of them. Our designs are showy enough to wear with a great outfit and understated enough to wear every day. We want people to truly live with our work and enjoy it for a lifetime,” says Pennachetti. Alchemy House Jewellery 219 Princess Street, Kingston 613.766.3207 www.alchemyhousejewellery.com ABOVE Talia and Miranda

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EverAfter

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Find Your Happily

at Bridal Creations & Murano’s Formalwear By Katrina Geenevasen Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

A History of Making Dreams Come True

ina Murano was just 17 years old when she packed her suitcase and immigrated to Canada from Italy with her new husband. A fashion design certificate in her young hands from Studio Competente per la Tecnica def Taglio, she quickly found work as a seamstress. As her English improved, so did her skills. She soon became a furrier, designing, selling and manufacturing high-end custom fur coats and accessories. It was a fitting profession for the young designer, who appreciated attention to detail and high-end craftsmanship.

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Soon enough, Murano made the switch to the bridal industry, and quickly became known for her second-to-none customer service and unparalleled seamstress skills. At the back of her mind though, was the dream to one day open her own bridal salon. “As a young girl, I was always had a love for fashion and an eye for the latest style trends, especially bridal,” she recalls. At 33, with two young sons, Murano purchased an historic limestone building in the heart of downtown Kingston, and the rest, as they say, is history. It was the beginning of Bridal Creations — which continues to make its mark on the city to this day.

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A Full Service Salon

Every blushing bride knows how overwhelming planning for her wedding day can be, but with Bridal Creations, Murano aimed to change that. In the beginning, Murano wore many hats to make the store the success it now is. Not only was she the sales associate, accountant, buyer, seamstress and bookkeeper, she also designed and assembled many of the dresses and accessories her brides wore. Founding the store with the goal to create a “one stop shop” for her brides, Murano not only offered free layaway, in-house alterations, special group rates, complimentary steaming and handpressing of the dresses leading up the wedding, she also offered a personalized gift for each bride before her walk down the aisle. In no time at all, the tiny downtown gem became known for its consummate customer service and making its brides feel special. To this day, that hasn’t changed.

A Growing Success

Surrounded by gorgeous taffeta, magnificent chiffon and exquisite silk, Stephen Murano seems quite at home at the Queen Street store, which has expanded three times over the years. His goal? To carry on his mother’s dream as the salon continues to grow and expand. “It’s all

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about the full service,” he says. “We go above and beyond more than anybody else. Anybody can sell a dress… but we go the extra mile to make sure everything is perfect.” Bridal Creations — now known as Bridal Creations & Murano’s Formalwear — is the largest bridal salon in eastern Ontario, offering brides-to-be hundreds of options to make their wedding day dreams come true. With many high-end lines — including Maggie Sottero, Paloma Blanca and Sophia Tolli — Bridal Creations promises something for every body and every bride. Brides aren’t the only happy clients served by Bridal Creations & Murano’s Formalwear. Offering Freeman Formalwear and Collins Formalwear for grooms-to-be, the mother/ son duo pride themselves on perfection. After all, it’s the groom who will bring a smile to the bride’s face on the big day. “We’re really big on attention to detail for the men,” explains Stephen. “I make sure it fits properly.” Bridesmaids and mothers are not forgotten, either. From vibrant-coloured gowns to fitted, sleek sheaths, every woman is sure to be tempted by the endless options. Whether you prefer the contemporary, fresh look of Bill Levkoff dresses or the elegant style of Alfred Angelo dresses, there’s no such thing as sacrificing style.

Celebrating a Milestone

This month, the salon will proudly celebrate a milestone anniversary: 20 years. “It’s a nice achievement, but it’s all thanks to my mum,” says Stephen, proudly presenting a smiling photo of his mother. “We’ve been fortunate; we have a great reputation and people love us. But we’re very, very loyal to our customers.” After four bouts with cancer, Pina isn’t at the store as much as she’d like to be, but her son is determined to carry on — proud of all that his mother has accomplished over the years. “It’s very important I carry on what my mother started, because it’s a privilege doing what I do,” he says. “I am very proud of what my mom achieved for this store and would like to honour it by continuing its growing success.”

think we just go above and beyond. We really give a lot of attention to everything.” Prominently displayed on the store’s fireplace mantle are countless thank you notes from brides who have chosen this Kingston-based salon to help make their wedding dreams become a reality. “Thank you for all the last minute help — it meant the world to me and took away any stress in my day,” says Shari, a former bride. “You went above and beyond to make me feel like the most special person.” For Stephen, it doesn’t get any better than helping brides say yes to the dress every day. “I find it fun,” he says, gesturing around him at the walls filled with creamy satins and luxurious silks. “I love when I’m up in the office, and I can hear a group clapping downstairs, because that’s the dress, so they’re all crying and the Kleenex is out.” Editors note: A special thank you to the Renaissance Event Venue, and

It’s not only about making a sale at Bridal Creations and Murano’s Formalwear. “You can’t just sell a dress… you get to know these brides. You’re spending 20 to 30 hours with them, and you become friends. You get invited to their weddings, which is nice. I

to models Lyndsay Byrne and Winter Sky Labbet.

Bridal Creations 296 Queen Street Kingston 613.546.9146 bridalcreations.ca

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KINGSTON’S GREAT OUTDOOR STORE Since 1938 By Trina Annand Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

he Canadian landscape is built for exploring, so you need clothes that work as hard as you play. Visit A-One Clothing, where preparing you for the great outdoors is their job. For 77 years, A-One Clothing has been providing the highest quality products and attentive service to generations of outdoor explorers. From its humble beginnings as a small business started by honeymooners Joe and Bertha Geller, A-One Clothing has blossomed into an iconic independent shop in downtown Kingston — tripling its size in the process. After taking over the business from his parents Libby and Bernie 25 years ago,

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the third generation of the A-One clothing family, Michael Tenenhouse, is ushering in a new image for the landmark retail institution. He is moving it into the 21st century while maintaining the service, brands and selection for which they’ve been famous for over seven decades. “Our approach to great service is about educating our visitors so they can make wise choices that suit their personal lifestyle,” says Tenenhouse. “I think it’s fair to say we take even more care in selecting our products than most consumers do. Quality is our top priority.” Tenenhouse brings famous brands from Australia, Germany, Israel, Denmark and across North America into the store so visitors

and locals alike can choose from the very best products in the world — right here in downtown Kingston. With a vast selection of inventory, customers can make A-One Clothing and A-One Kids their one-stop-shop for durable outdoor apparel. A-One is also the only oversized men’s shop in the city and boasts the largest selection of every brand they carry between Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. Not wedded to fashion trends, the company has been carrying many of their well-known products for 50 years or more. In fact, A-One Clothing was selling many of the bigger names, like Canada Goose,

before they became trendy because they were well-made and uniquely designed for our Canadian climate. “We carry the iconic brands people are looking for in sizes that fit everyone in the family. Outdoor enthusiasts want their kids to have the same high quality gear they have, so family time is more fun and comfortable for everyone,” notes Tenenhouse. He also says consumers are more quality and value savvy than they were during his grandparents’ generation. That’s why the staff at A-One Clothing undergoes rigorous training, resulting in expert product knowledge. All of this adds up to a tradition of excellence as the downtown landmark prepares to be a part of the community for many years to come. “I grew up in this store and it’s given me a unique perspective on what clients are looking for and how we can better serve them. It’s really encouraged us to do some thoughtful expansion over the years. Our selection is second to none because we know our customers’ time is precious and that quality is important to them,” says Tenenhouse. When searching for the perfect parka, socks, gloves, hats or hikers for the whole family, become part of the A-One Clothing family. A-One Clothing 358 King St. East (on the corner of King & Princess) Kingston 613.548.8732 877.948.8732 www.aoneclothing.com TOP Photo by Mike Fitzpatrick TOP RIGHT Michael Tenenhouse, owner FineLifestyles

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A Modern Aesthetic With Decades of Expertise By Trina Annand Photos Stephen Wild

piece of jewelry or a timepiece are more than simple adornments, they have become symbols of love and a way to commemorate special events or milestones. For tens of thousands of years, people have been using jewelry to express who they are. Built on a strong base of family values and expertise, Frontenac Jewellers has been part of the community since 1946. With the newest generation of the Dafnas family at the helm, the business looks to keep their clients on trend and on budget with the latest technology and expert craftsmanship, combined with the family-based service clients already know and love. Known as the longest-running independent jewelry store in Kingston, Frontenac Jewellers blossomed under the ownership of George Dafnas, who began as an eager young watch technician with a dream of becoming an entrepreneur. After decades of superior service, Peter and Natasa Dafnas now run the business. Growing up working in the store, the brother and sister duo have a finely tuned eye for detail and a passion for jewelry. “Our business is built on trust and integrity. We service everything we sell with an on-staff jeweler and timepiece technician,” says Peter Dafnas. Offering a wide array of repairs and services, Frontenac Jewellers staff puts the ‘expert’ in expertise; no job is too big or small. Visitors to the shop enjoy the family feel of having the Dafnas family work with them personally, even the family dog, Sophia, a West Highland White Terrier, helps around the store. After undergoing a recent renovation and expanding their selection, Frontenac Jewellers is ready to face the future with open arms. Featuring a cosy historic storefront, Frontenac Jewellers is a hidden gem in the

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downtown core. The independent business hand selects all the items in stock with an emphasis on quality and style. Offering exclusive lines, including Thomas Sabo, Fire and Ice Canadian Diamonds, as well as Alex and Ani. One of the hottest trends in North America, Alex and Ani has been seen on a variety of celebrities including Sandra Bullock, Taylor Swift and Beyonce Knowles. The business also features a vast array of statement luxury timepieces that are perfect for any occasion. Not just limited to pre-made jewelry, custom pieces are Frontenac Jewellers’ specialty. “With our custom design computer technology, we can take a specified budget and can create or recreate anything you can imagine,” says Peter Dafnas. What makes the family’s job most

rewarding is sharing special moments with their customers. “When someone comes in, it is usually for a special occasion, they’re excited and we are glad to be a part of their special moments. We aren’t the traditional stuffy jewelry store. We get as excited about an event as our clients do. We want to make sure every purchase is the right one for our clients,” says Natasa Dafnas. Whether you’re picking that perfect piece of jewelry, repairing a vintage watch or creating a completely custom piece, Frontenac Jewellers is the place to find everything you’re looking for and more. PREVIOUS PAGE Natasa and Peter Dafnas

Frontenac Jewellers 75 Princess Street, Kingston 613.542.4666 www.frontenacjewellers.com

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ECHO Hair Studio:

Helping You Achieve the Look You Want Photos by Stephen Wild

ituated in downtown Kingston, ECHO (Extremely Conscious Hair Organization) has been dedicated to cutting-edge style and fashionforward looks since their first days in business. Twenty-three years later, that hasn’t changed. A HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE ECHO has always lived on Bagot Street. Lou Petrie opened and designed the original studio in 1992, but eight years later, the studio was busting at the seams and it was time to expand. Marie-Claude Tetrault was interested in running a business, so the two women became partners. The move to 344 Bagot St. in the Royal Artillery Park Complex boasted

a bigger space and parking. “We are coming up on 15 years and are planning on celebrating with specials each month of the year,” says Petrie.

“We are privileged to be invited to travel to Europe each year and share education with our peers,” says Tetrault. “This is all through Schwarzkopf, our line we use exclusively for colour.”

AN AWARD-WINNING SALON ECHO’s dedication to the hair industry has resulted in numerous honours and nominations. The studio has been nominated for Businesswomen of the Year, the Elite Master Stylist award, and was ranked as one of the Top 10 Best Designed Salons in Canada. COLOUR EXPERTS ECHO is part of Professional Hands, a team of 25 salons that span the country. ABOVE Marie-Claude Tetrault and Lou Petrie, owners

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Schwarzkopf releases two main collections each year: the Spring/Summer collection and the Fall/Winter collection. The six lines the company offers gives stylists the freedom to choose what best suits their clients’ hair. Their Blonde Me line creates beautiful results on even the most challenging blondes, adds Tetrault. They also have Essensity, an organic line, and Colour 10, which covers grey hair in 10 minutes. “This is a huge convenience for busy working women, says Petrie. “We also offer to our regular clients an express service so you can get just a touch-up in between regular cut and colour visits.” “We train extensively to keep inspired,” says Petrie. “At ECHO, we are specialists

in hair colouring. We also carry two boutique lines of retail products, Colour Proof and Unite. Both supply extraordinary hair care.” A TEAM EFFORT ECHO is a salon that believes in individuality and you won’t find uniforms here. Common courtesy and mutual respect amongst the staff is apparent. “We are a busy, dynamic salon with a vibrant atmosphere and an underlying ease of professionalism,” says Petrie. French speaking employees are also in every department. “With an everincreasing French population in Kingston, we are proud to offer bilingual services.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE “We’ve had yet another year full of change,” says Petrie. “It’s a good thing we like change. It’s the nature of the hair industry and we love what we do. We promise to continue supporting our stylists through education and to being the very best we can be.” “Our Loyalty Points System is just one way ECHO shows clients gratitude for their ongoing support. See our website for more details,” says Tetrault. ECHO Hair Studio 344 Bagot Street Kingston 613.542.5069 www.echohairstudio.com

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An Introduction to Ayurvedic Spa Therapies performed hands-on with an emphasis on purification, tonification and rejuvenation. Ayurvedic therapies differ from standard spa treatments. Depending on the imbalance being treated, different therapies, tools and ingredients are used. Customization is an important aspect of Ayurveda because treatments and/or oils that are good for one person may be less beneficial or, even harmful, to a person with a different body type or with another kind of imbalance.

Paula Foster Owner/operator & Ayurvedic Practitioner

Diva Salon & Day Spa 336 Princess St., Kingston 613.544.4067 www.divasalonanddayspa.com

yurveda (which translates to “knowledge of life”) is the world’s most ancient system of preventive health care. Stress, improper diet, and lifestyle and environmental influences can push our bodies out of their natural equilibrium. It is this lack of balance that results in ill health chronic disorders, and contributes significantly to the aging process. Ayurveda focuses on creating positive health, as well as eliminating disorders, by following diet and lifestyle recommendations. A further extension of creating better health, unique to Ayurveda, is the variety of traditional therapies

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During a pre-treatment consultation, what the individual requires can be determined. Does the treatment need to be cooling and anti-inflammatory, or heating and vigorous? Is the individual’s constitution strong enough to endure a detoxifying friction massage? Will a slow massage followed by herbal poultice placements finally bring relief to that aching knee? Different carrier oils, herbs, muds, poultices, powders and aromatics all have distinct characteristics, as do the treatment procedures. The system of Ayurveda is vast, and rejuvenation by way of physical manipulation and treatment is only one of the eight branches of Ayurvedic Science. Even though many of the therapies are results-oriented and require more intense client consultation, Ayurvedic treatments are still luxurious and deeply relaxing. Spas and wellness centres with trained Ayurvedic practitioners are expanding upon their service menus to include more therapeutic options as people begin to discover the balancing and healing benefits of Ayurveda. Some of the more commonly practiced therapies are:

AhbyAngA MASSAge A comprehensive form of massage that restores balance and revitalizes the entire mind/body physiology using specific types of oils and herbs blended to your dosha type. SwedAnA Involves a steam canopy placed over the entire body while the head remains outside. Herbs infuse the steam. Used for rejuvenation and/or detoxification. ShIrodhArA A steady stream of warm sesame or coconut oil infused with traditional Ayurvedic herbs flow rhythmically across the forehead calming the mind and soothing the nervous system. nASyA A therapy that relieves sinus congestions, allergies, migraines and frequent colds. The head, face, neck and shoulders are massaged with herbal oils followed by inhalation of herbal steam and self-administration of herbal oil or ghee into the nostrils. PIndA SwedA Begins with an Ahbyanga massage followed by an external application of hot herbal/barley or rice/milk poultices that makes the body perspire. Useful for joint pain, all forms of rheumatism and some skin disorders. UdvArTnA Detoxification that removes unwanted substances, toxins and excesses from the body using dry herbal powders and pastes. Traditionally used to treat obesity, skin disorders and cellulite because it stimulates circulation. IndIAn heAd MASSAge A holistic head massage that targets pressure points and uses oils to relieve tension, boost blood flow and clear out negative energy.

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Stay Stylish and Warm All Winter Long

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

DEFINING CONTEMPORARY STYLE

’ve been told it’s going to be everything from a long and arduous winter, to an above normal temperature season. With the long months ahead, it will require skill to navigate through all the ins and outs we will demand from our wardrobes. A few things you’ll need in your arsenal (regardless of the weather), include

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the following: a warm coat that reflects function and style, a great selection of sweaters and warm tops, a great dress for all the parties you’ll be invited to, and good solid bottoms that you can care for easily and take you from work to weekend. So what items should you be eyeing for quality? Winter coats, blazers, scarves, pants — I could go on indefinitely. For example, we all know the quality and thickness of a winter coat’s fabric can often denote its warmth. Wool/ cashmere blends are warm, but it’s also about the weight and feel of the fabric. The coat should not only be lined, but the lining should also have a layer of interlining added for warmth, as well as a chamois sewn into the back to cut out the wind and keep the warmth in. Those are the small differences that I look for in the construction of the garment that most people will never notice, but make a world of difference to the person wearing it. Our coat manufacturer in Toronto has been using this method for decades.

We at Chris James go to great lengths to curate a collection that focuses on the details no one notices. In women’s wear alone, we carry more than 30 brands to ensure we have the best fitting pant and the right top to complement it. We focus on not only the logistical side of a brand, but also on the quality and craftsmanship, the fabrication, and of course, the design esthetic which is why we try to focus on Canadian brands as much as possible. We like to offer value and choice in a range of prices. The next time you are investing in a piece of clothing, consider good, better and best. Buy what you feel is comfortable — both literally and financially. Expensive doesn’t always equal quality, nor does value come cheap. Some shoppers feel they have to do the legwork, and look at lots of different options. One of the benefits of being a Chris James customer is we curate it for you. Our customers know this, trust in our knowledge, and know they don’t have to worry about the details.

AVANTA SALON & SPA Avanta Salon & Spa is a full service hair salon and day spa, where you can spend as little as 15 minutes or as much as a full day of pampering. 613.544.8666 | www.avantaspa.com

BODY SYSTEMS NUTRITION At Body Systems Nutrition, “We build better bodies.” Professional and knowledgeable staff to answer all your supplement and fitness questions. 613.549.7779 | www.bodysystems.ca

BURNHAM OPTICAL Experienced staff will help you find exactly what you’re looking for…the perfect fit, with the most style. The newest lens designs with the latest technology. 613.547.3504 | www.burnhamoptical.ca

CHIT CHAT CAFÉ Gourmet coffee and tea, delicious soups and freshly made muffins, pies and cakes. 613.545.7712 | Like us on Facebook!

INKWELL Services offered include refilling ink cartridges while you wait and on-site manufacturing of toners, as well as smart phone, tablet and computer repairs. 613.531.4167 | www.inkwellkingston.ca

MARITIME TRAVEL A full service travel agency renowned for its service and competitive prices. Specializing in cruising, Sandals, group departures and destination weddings. 613.544.8898 | www.maritimetravel.ca

MARELLO’S HAIR STYLING Marello’s Hair Styling is an award-winning full-service salon that specializes in styling, colour dimension and hair texturizing. Sensible styling fees. 613.544.6166 | Like us on Facebook!

MR. JACKET’S Your one-stop-shop for sports apparel – hats, T-shirts, sweaters, jerseys, clocks and mugs for many of your favourite NHL , NFL, CFL, MLB and NBA teams. 613.531.9998 | Like us on Facebook!

PUTT N’BLAST Putt N’Blast offers a wide range of exciting activities for everyone…3D Glow-in-the-dark mini-putt, laser tag, The Vault, and Bears2Go. Ideal for group events. 613.544.3342 | www.puttnblast.com

Your Place for Value, Convenience and Service

1300 Bath Road | 613.544.9133 MALL HOURS: Monday to Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. www.frontenacmall.com /Frontenac Mall | /@FrontenacMall FineLifestyles

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MOTHERS, DAUGHTERS FATHERS, SONS ... Holiday presents with a style presence. Quality clothing from designers around the world in a stunningly beautiful shop in downtown Kingston.

matinique / ted baker / seven sandwich / laundry / tiger of sweden bugatchi / strellson autumn cashmere / iris / franco mirabelli

DEFINING CONTEMPORARY STYLE 253 ontario st, kingston www.ChrisJamesKingston.com

Care For Your Hair This Winter

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

Have Your Hair evaluaTed bY a ProFessional sTYlisT

Colour Proof Super Rich. Both lines are exclusive to ECHO.

With the changing of the seasons, it’s important for stylists to re-evaluate their clients’ hair condition and texture, which often leads to a prescribed change in the client’s home hair care regime. This rule of thumb is no different come winter. Book an appointment right away so your stylist can impart his or her time-tested wisdom on you before it’s too late. Prevent your tresses from getting the best of your patience this season!

KeeP iT ColourFul Colour should also be assessed seasonally, if not more frequently. To avoid looking washed out now that the days hold too many shades of grey, opt for a richer tone to brighten your complexion.

embraCe naTural Curls during THe WinTer monTHs

ow that the cold Canadian winter is upon us here in the Limestone City, you may have noticed your hair becoming unruly. No surprise there…the frigid winter months can wreak havoc on even the healthiest of hair. So how do you prevent your hair from looking lank and lackluster until spring? Here are a few tips:

Clients who embrace their naturally curly locks during the warmer summer months may struggle with an unfortunate amount of frizz throughout the winter due to a dryer environment. Cranking our heaters to combat the chilly temperatures may keep us warm and toasty, but it dries out hair that’s already lacking some muchneeded moisture. What’s a girl to do? Try a moisture-based conditioner, which suits coarser hair. Giving your tresses some love with this type of treatment will lock in moisture when your hair needs it most. We might recommend Unite Moisture or

You may find as you age, you have some telltale “mature” hairs. Professional stylists can expertly guide you through the process of shining up your natural colour, gently staining it for camouflage or colouring for full coverage.

don’T be aFraid To asK a ProFessional For HelP Having a stylist see and feel your hair is the best way to ensure you are using the most effective products that will give you long-lasting results. Staring, without guidance or consultation, at the multitudes of retail products is not an effective use of your time or money. After all, who wants to be debating types of hair care products when you could be skating in Springer Market Square or tobogganing in the great outdoors?

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CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTY

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Christmas in the County

By Tori Stafford Photos Daniel Vaughan

othing evokes the spirit of the holiday season quite like trudging through the snow in boots in and out of stores to check off the items on your gift list. Somehow, the cold air seems warmer under the glow of storefronts as people rush around and carols waft into the streets as doors open and close. Just a short drive from Kingston, the charm and magic of Prince Edward County (PEC) is as warm and inviting as a Norman Rockwell painting, and the shops and boutiques hold unique treasures for everyone. In Picton, the heart of the County, events and stores alike adopt the fairy tale-like nature of the area every day, but even more so during such a special time of year, explains Lyndsay Richmond, manager of the Picton Business Improvement area. “Christmas activities and specials will be offered throughout the holiday shopping season, beginning with the ‘Shop the Neighbourhood’ event through until Christmas,” Richmond says, noting beautiful window displays, carollers, hot chocolate and sleigh rides will all be part of the holidays in Picton. “Picton and PEC are the places you go to slow down and enjoy your shopping experience. With gifts for the whole family, businesses offer a pleasant, relaxed shopping atmosphere and oneon-one customer care.”

A growing number of shops in Picton offer extended hours on Thursday and Friday evenings in December to accommodate shoppers for the holiday season. Free parking is also offered.

The variety of stores and unique artisan offerings of Picton and Prince Edward County in general are sure to stoke the fires of creativity for finding the ideal gift for that hard-to-buy-for loved one, and the booming food and wine industry allows for scrumptious stops along the way and perfect host or hostess gifts for the myriad of holiday parties you’re sure to attend. As Richmond says, when it comes to one-of-a-kind specialties, there is no place quite like the County. “On Picton’s bustling Main Street, specialty shops of all kinds provide a wide variety of items to tempt the shopper. From boutiques and antiques to clothing, books and home décor stores, Picton has something for every kind of shopper,” she says. On top of being a premier shopping, food and beverage destination, Picton also hosts events throughout the holiday season to help get everyone in the spirit. As well as the ‘Shop the Neighbourhood’ event, the Bloomfield Lighted Santa Claus Parade takes place Nov. 28, the Picton Santa Claus Parade takes place Nov. 30, and Festival of Trees (in support of the Picton hospital) runs from Nov. 28 to 30 with over 150 beautifully decorated trees up for silent auction. Everyone should take advantage of what the area has to offer, advises Richmond — you won’t be disappointed. “Couples can browse the many shops before dining at one of the fine establishments in PEC and families can come to take in one of the Christmas events, have a bite at one of the many casual restaurants and check out the shops offering an assortment of kids games, books, toys and more,” Richmond says. “Our businesses offer warm hospitality and friendly service.”

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CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTY

A Vintage Christmas at

Green Gables

By Ashliegh Gehl Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

very day is Christmas at Green Gables, but when the weather turns frosty and the snow is knee high, this eclectic shop is aglow with the magic of the season.

It’s why carloads of Kingstonians, hyped on hot cocoa and headstrong with carols, drive through the wintry countryside for a day of festive shopping in Bloomfield. It’s an annual tradition Diana Cooper enjoys being a part of. “We have a lot of people who come down for day trips,” says Cooper. “Others come a couple of times a month. Often it’s groups of women swooping in for lunch or couples taking a leisurely drive.” Cooper has owned Green Gables Gifts and Greetings since 2013. She decks the store with

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garland, prepares it for the town’s Festival of Lights, and pulls out a sleigh — a timepiece that has been in her family for decades. Children and rosycheeked couples hop inside to take photographs. Memorable keepsakes are shared on Instagram. Cooper is celebrating the Christmas of olde this season. Like her classic sleigh, it’s a theme befitted for the 1850s Victorian house the store calls home. With 12 rooms to wander through, there’s a surprise around every corner. This year, Cooper is focusing on Christmas ornaments and collectibles. She has items from Jim Shore, an American artist inspired by quilting, rosemaling and appliqué. These styles are at the core of heritage arts.

perfect blend of creativity and grace. Cooper also sells unique lamps — no two are the same. They come from all around the world. Family and food are holiday essentials. That’s why Cooper offers gourmet food from England — tasty shortbreads and biscuits. And then there’s Ontario-made jams, marmalade and caramelized maple onions. Admirers of Dickens Village collectibles won’t be hard-pressed to find unique pieces. This touching series is reflective of the colourful world Charles Dickens lived in. A world the novelist detailed in his beloved story, The Christmas Carol. “We also have a wide range of retro toys,” says Cooper, reminiscing about stocking stuffers perfect for the kid-atheart. “Marbles, puzzles, Tiddlywinks, little wooden theatres, and Pick-up Sticks — these are vintage games from the 40s and 50s. Toys that are unplugged, toys that don’t require batteries.” Among the fun and games is an array of items to enhance one’s home décor. There are Dash & Albert rugs by Annie Selke — a designer whose touch is a

“The black olive tapenades are great for entertaining,” she says. “We also have plenty of dips, Brie bakers — everything you need for entertaining. And then there’s the accouterments — cheeseboards and pate spreaders.” This holiday season, if you’re looking for unique toys, stylish home décor, pieces of jewelry crafted by Canadian designers, or beautiful scarves handpicked from Turkey, Green Gables is the place to be. It’ll leave you with joy and merriment. Those cosy feelgood sensations that will keep you warm all the way home. Green Gables Gifts and Greetings 286 Main Street Bloomfield 613.393.1494 greengablesbloomfield@gmail.com greengablesbloomfield.com

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CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTY

The Excitement of Shopping,

The Satisfaction of a Fabulous Purchase By Ashliegh Gehl Photos Stephen Wild

hen it’s a winter wonderland on Picton’s Main Street, City Revival is a fashion paradise.

City Revival is a big, bright, fashion oasis. Located in a restored Woolworths, the building is now home to 4,000-squarefeet of fantastic clothing, jewelry, purses and footwear. It’s discovery after discovery for the shopper who delights in rare, covetable and well-made items — the kind one would be hard-pressed to find in any other store are unpacked hourly. Yes, hourly. Just before City Revival’s interview with Fine Lifestyles Kingston, a collection of

vintage designer bags from Gucci and Fendi had been unpacked, as well as a Chanel jacket, two Etro menswear suits and a Carolina Herrera Couture gown. Do you need a Diane von Fürstenberg purse, less than one season old? The friendly and knowledgeable staff is always available to help, or to leave customers to explore at their own pace. Faye Graham, owner of City Revival, started the business 23 years ago and has watched it become a must-shop destination in Picton. “We have had everything from an Hermes Kelly bag, to Chanel suits — and everything in between!” It’s no wonder the shop has become a popular Picton establishment,

drawing customers from Montreal, Ottawa, Kingston and Toronto. At its core, City Revival is a Gucci to Gap consignment emporium. “Our consigners are families in Toronto that shop Holt Renfrew, Prada… you name it,” says Graham. “They travel and shop around the world. We have been working with some for so long now that we consign with several generations of the same family.” City Revival’s consigners are not the only intergenerational partners. Graham’s niece, Carolyn Gummo, is being groomed to take over. “Fashion is in her blood. She’s only 27 years old so she has really grown up in the store,” says Graham.

ABOVE L-R Alisha in Halston with Armani Bag, Carolyn in Zac Posen with Chris Kon bag, and Kacey in one of our new dresses.

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LEFT L-R Alisha in Alice & Olivia, Carolyn in Joie & DVF, Summer in Prada, Kacey in Marc Jacobs MIDDLE 4000 sq. ft. of fashion BELOW Kacey in Marc Cain

“The more I travelled, the more I came to appreciate just how special City Revival really is,” says Gummo. Gummo has spent more than a year in Brazil, months in Africa, and many more in Europe, but has returned home to Picton for the best she has found. “This is by far the most exciting place I have ever shopped. I feel extremely privileged and delighted to take this place on.” Gummo also organizes the store’s annual fashion show. Be sure to mark your calendars, as the next show takes place Saturday, March 14, 2015. “It’s an absolutely amazing, instore shopping party with local models,” says Gummo. “It’s so much fun. Everyone has a ball.” Their best advice when shopping at City Revival? “Savour your time. Whether you are by yourself or with friends or family, leave yourself time to really enjoy shopping.” City Revival 275 Main Street Picton 613.476.7445 info@cityrevival.com cityrevival.com

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Designer Fashions, Shoes, Handbags and Accessories Personalized, knowledgeable, one-on-one service and fashion advice, along with the choice of dozens of leading designer name brands, all for at least 50 per cent less than the manufacturer's suggested retail price! Shop when you want to â&#x20AC;&#x201D; contact us in advance to book your personal or group appointment.

Leighaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Designer Closet

613.530.7392 | leighasdesignercloset@hotmail.com | www.leighasdesignercloset.com 56

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How To Winterize Your Skin

Kelly Rice Esthetician Perfetta Skin Therapy & Medi-Spa 2–725 Arlington Park Place Kingston 613.389.2226 www.perfettaskin.com

ere we are once again… shorter days, longer nights, colder temperatures, cosy fireplaces, holiday parties and perhaps a case of the winter blues.

Tip #4: A moisturizer containing natural oils, or perhaps using oil as your moisturizer, will alleviate flaky, irritated skin. Calendula oil is fantastic for sensitive skin.

As we navigate through the colder months, you may find your skin needing extra attention. Here are a few tips to ensure your skin stays healthy and hydrated:

Tip #5: Don’t forget to exfoliate. Getting rid of dead surface skin cells will reveal healthier, brighter skin. However, exfoliating too much may cause a problem, too. Speak to your skin therapist to determine how often, and what type of exfoliant is best for your skin.

Tip #1: Switching to a creamy cleanser will ensure your skin is not being stripped of its natural oils. You may also use oil such as coconut to cleanse your skin, as it is wonderful for dissolving makeup and dirt residue. Tip #2: Keep an extra spritz bottle of your toning lotion in your purse or at your desk and mist throughout the day. Heaters in our cars or workplace draw moisture from your skin. Tip #3: Using a hydrating serum, such as one with hyaluronic acid, underneath your moisturizer will help combat dehydration and fine lines.

Tip #6: Boost moisture by using a mask several times per week, or overnight. Masks are great for plumping and brightening your skin, especially if you’re preparing for a holiday party. Tip #7: Don’t forget your lips! Using chemical-based lip balms will only have your lips thirsty for more. Look for natural ingredients that will actually hydrate. As for the winter blues, treat yourself to a facial with your skin therapist!

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The

VAST

WORLDof Alternative Health Part 3 of 3 BY SARAH VERMETTE

n the western world, people are used to standing in line at a pharmacy to have prescriptions filled. Too often, people misuse prescribed medicines by not completing the full prescription cycle. This causes the body to develop resistance to that drug, rendering it useless in the future. Several sources, such as the Mayo Clinic and the American College of Physicians, have reported that as this occurs on a wide-spread scale, there are fewer drugs for doctors to turn to for treatment, which could

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cause worldwide epidemics. More so, the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse issued a troubling report discussing the prevalence of prescription drugs being used for recreational use. This obviously belittles the legitimacy of what they are to be used for: to save lives. Many conditions, but certainly not all, can be successfully treated with gentler types of treatment. There are various branches of alternative medicine that use naturally occurring or manmade substances for treatment.

Homeopathy Homeopathy is a system of medicine that treats the individual with highly diluted substances, given mainly in tablet form, with the aim of triggering the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural system of healing. In its current form, homeopathy has been widely used worldwide for more than 200 years.

Aromatherapy Aromatherapy is the practice of using the natural oils extracted from flowers, bark, stems, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant to enhance psychological and physical well-being. The inhaled aroma from these essential oils is widely believed to stimulate brain function. Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin, where they travel through the bloodstream and can promote whole-body healing.

Homeopathy is based on the principle that you can treat like with like; that is, a substance which causes symptoms when taken in large doses can be used in small amounts to treat those same symptoms. This concept is sometimes used in conventional medicine: for example, the stimulant Ritalin is used to treat patients with ADHD, or small doses of allergens such as pollen are sometimes used to de-sensitize allergic patients. However, one major difference with homeopathic medicines is that substances are used in ultra high dilutions, which makes them non-toxic. Homeopathic medicines (which homeopaths call remedies) are prepared by specialist pharmacies.

Though little is known about the history of aromatherapy, the actual term â&#x20AC;&#x153;aromatherapyâ&#x20AC;? first originated in 1937 when French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, invented the word after a burn incident spurred his curiosity about the healing power of essential oils. Aromatherapy is used for a variety of applications, including pain relief, mood enhancement and increased cognitive function. There are a wide number of essential oils available, each with its own healing properties.

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Naturopathy Naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary healthcare system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. The naturopathic philosophy is to stimulate the healing power of the body and treat the underlying cause of disease. Symptoms of disease are seen as warning signals of improper functioning of the body and unfavourable lifestyle habits. Treating both acute and chronic conditions, naturopathic treatments are chosen based on the individual patient: their physiological, structural, psychological, social, spiritual, environment and lifestyle factors. In addition to diet and lifestyle changes, natural therapies including botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, naturopathic manipulation and traditional Chinese medicine/acupuncture may also be used during treatments.

Alternative therapies are a good option for people who want healthcare that is less invasive, gentler on the body and oriented to individual needs. Many people find that a more holistic approach is required to find lasting results when conventional medicine has been unsuccessful. Others find a combination of conventional medicine and alternative methods is the most successful approach to managing overall well-being. At the same time, depending on the person, different symptoms are best treated with different modalities. Because every person is unique, what works for one person may not work for another. If venturing into this area for the first time, it may take some trial and error before finding the method that is best suited to you.

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ASEA & RENUE28 March 19, 2014

Redox Signaling Technology… For Health Care and Prevention

April 10,2014

28 DAYS RSM For Skin Health RENU 28 is a gel that has four times the RSM concentration of the liquid ASEA. When applied topically to the skin, it can penetrate five layers deep. Signs of damaged or aged skin can appear as blotches, blemishes, discolouration, wrinkles, sagging or swelling. You may also experience increased warmth and sensitivity. Because skin is our largest organ, we can see aging appear here first, and by using RENU 28, you can see the repair of damaged cells the fastest.

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

n our last column, we discussed the importance of supplementing native redox signaling molecules (RSM) for cellular health. They have two specific functions. One is to provide communication between cells. So, wherever there are damaged cells, redox-signaling molecules initiate repair or regeneration. The second function is to ‘turn on’ cellular antioxidants and increase their production by 500 per cent, thus protecting the cells’ DNA. There are only two sources of these molecules: those created within our cells, and those found in the products ASEA (which is a drink) and RENU 28 (which is a gel).

How does it work? Within each 28-day cycle, our skin sheds a layer of dead cells. Application of RSM supports the body to do what it does naturally, but working from the outside to the inside. What are the ingredients found in RENU28? There are only four: water, sodium chloride, disodium phosphate and sodium magnesium silicate. What is not in it? RENU 28 is both preservative and paraben free, and does not include any harmful chemicals that can irritate or inflame the skin. It’s also non-comedogenic, which means it does not fill the pores, but rather aids the skin in improving the health of the cell. RENU 28 does not cause an inflammatory response, like some products that act as irritants, which plumps up the tissue, thereby decreasing wrinkles. The RSM in RENU 28 are native to the human body and non-toxic. Testing by DERMATEST, the leading dermatological

research institute from Germany, gave RENU 28 its coveted five-star, clinically tested seal. The average results over 28 days demonstrated a decrease in wrinkles by 23 per cent, overall improvement of skin texture by 22 per cent, improvement in skin elasticity by 20 per cent and an improvement in skin moisture by 11 per cent. How do I use it? For anti-aging results, cleanse your face and neck thoroughly. Shake the tube and apply. Once the skin is dry, then you can apply other moisturizers or cosmetic products. Apply twice per day. For other problem areas of inflammation, RENU 28 can be applied more frequently. Most importantly, you will want to take a picture of your face before you begin. At the end of 28 days, be sure to take another photograph, in the same setting and similar lighting, so you can see the difference for yourself. How do I get it? RENU 28 and ASEA are available at Let Go Natural Medicine Consultants. To see more before and after results, plan to attend RENU 28 information session on Nov. 17 or Dec. 8 at 626B #11 Cataraqui Woods Dr. Registration is required.

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PERFETTA

SKIN THERAPY & MEDI-SPA: Unlimited Luxury For Your Mind, Body & Soul By Katrina Geenevasen Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

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hese days, it’s so important to relax,” says Kristine Barker, business manager and owner of Perfetta Skin Therapy & Medi-Spa. “It’s so important for people to take care of themselves.” Truer words could not be spoken, and at Perfetta Skin Therapy & Medi-Spa, you can find the perfect place to rejuvenate and unwind.

“

Since opening its doors on a crisp October day two years ago, Perfetta has established itself as a go-to resource for both men and women wanting to up the ante on their skin care regime. Offering a full range of esthetics using organic skin care, registered massage therapy and advanced skin care treatments, the small but mighty team at Perfetta is truly passionate about educating their clients and giving each of them the best experience possible every

time they visit. “It’s not just a business for us,” says Barker, who co-owns the serene spa with her sister, esthetician Amber Ferguson. “It’s really about transforming people and making them feel good about themselves.” The spa, conveniently located in Kingston’s west end, has become renowned for their luxurious 90-minute deluxe facial. Beginning with a detailed skin analysis and ending in total and complete bliss, the heavenly facial incorporates careful cleansing, exfoliation and wonderful massage. “We carefully examine your skin to determine specifically what products would give you the most beneficial results, so you’re getting the best value and the best treatment that you can get customized for you,” she says of the facial, which involves a fluffy duvet, heated blanket

TOP L-R Marie Loignon Picken, registered massage therapist; Amber Ferguson, spa co-owner and esthetician; Kristine Barker, spa co-owner and business manager; Stephanie Farmer, office administrator; Kelly Rice, esthetician FineLifestyles

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and soft music to lull clients into a state of total pleasure. “It’s an amazing relaxation treatment, an amazing skin care treatment,” says Barker. “We call it our ‘Jell-O treatment’, because clients usually feel like Jell-O when they come out. They have to sit down because of all the endorphins that get released. And they can see how amazing their skin looks afterwards.” Barker says the deluxe 90-minute facial is their specialty at Perfetta. “Clients return again and again for this incredible treatment and tell us it’s the best facial they have ever had. We take such pride in that.” They’re also known for their exceptional customer service. “We develop a lot of personal relationships with our clients,”

says Barker. “We spend a lot of time with them. We really get to know each person as an individual, so when they come in, we’re greeting them by name. They’re not just another customer,” she says. “We really want to retain people. Our clientele is very important, so we treat them very well. We love coming to work because we love what we do. This is such a happy place to be because everyone is always in a good mood, especially after their treatments.” Perfetta proudly uses only Éminence Organic Skin Care. Perfume, chemical and paraben-free, Éminence was developed in Hungary in the 1960s and has since become a cult favourite among celebrities and everyday women and men alike. “Every time a new product comes out, we’re all so passionate about it,” says

Barker. “And it’s not fake excitement— it’s genuine. We all love the products.” Whether it’s the luxurious coconut cream masque, or the calming chamomile moisturizer, customers love the products for their unsurpassed quality, says Barker. For beautiful, glowing skin and a spa experience like none other, visit Perfetta, says Barker. “People wrap up a treatment and they are smiling and happy and they’re looking at their skin in the mirror and they can’t believe the changes,” says Barker with a smile. “We have just helped so many people, and it’s very satisfying.”

Perfetta Skin Therapy & Medi Spa 2-725 Arlington Park Place Kingston 613.389.2226 www.perfettaskin.com

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ExpErt Advice Aquatic Therapy For Hip Replacement Patients

LOGOTYPE

Joe Stilwell Kinesiologist and Owner Hydrathletics Aquatic Therapy and Sports Therapy 235â&#x20AC;&#x201D;1353 Midland Avenue Kingston jstilwell@hydrathletics.ca www.hydrathletics.ca A Q U AT I C T H E R A P Y

AND SPORTS TRAINING

! ! ! ! ! !

ecovering from hip replacement surgery can be a tough process for many people. One way to make the transition easier is to utilize the properties of water to help aid recovery. ÂŠ2012 TESS EDWARDS

The following are a few ways water can help clients recover quickly and add a new dimension to their rehab:

IT cAn HelP Reduce THe FeAR oF FAllIng And ReInjuRIng THe RecoveRIng HIP. If you stumble and fall in the water, the worst that will happen is you float away. Decreasing the fear of re-injury helps people relax and reduces the stress on the hip. IT cAn decReAse InFlAmmATIon. The pressure of the water aids the circulation of body fluids, which results in decreased inflammation and pain. The massage jets can also help relax muscles and promote healing to the affected areas. IT Reduces joInT sTRess. This is key for recovery of the hip. By taking

the pressure off, you are able to move and exercise in ways you would be unable to on land. This leads into the next benefit, which is increased motion in the hip. The buoyancy of the water helps the hip move easier and with a greater range of motion than would be possible on land. Because you have reduced the pressure on the joint, it is not as tight and allows it the freedom to move. IT IncReAses oveRAll HAPPIness. The warm water is very enjoyable to be in, and this promotes client morale, which aids in confidence and recovery.

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Touch of Wellness Aveda Spa Your Total Relaxation Destination Photos courtesy of Touch of Wellness

A SpA like No other

elcome to your most relaxing day ever! At Touch of Wellness, each and every member of the team is dedicated to your total relaxation. Conveniently located inside the luxurious Touch of Class building in the heart of downtown Napanee, Touch of Wellness offers a relaxing environment that helps you forget the troubles and chaos of life and leaves you refreshed and restored. The moment you enter Touch of Wellness, a sense of calmness and serenity envelops you. Their treatment rooms are cosy and private, and their skilled staff has your utmost pampering in mind. Joanne Burke was inspired to open Touch of Wellness because of life experiences that forced her out of her ‘comfort zone.’ She then learned a new perspective on the value of physical, mental and spiritual wellness. “Too often we lose our focus and simply forget to take the time for self-nurturing.

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I did, and I learned that the consequences can be tremendous,” says Burke. AvedA productS Touch of Wellness is proud to offer products from the prestigious Aveda skin and body care line. Pure plant and flower essences are part of the complete pampering experience. When combined with the restorative touch of their skilled professional spa therapists, the results speak for themselves. liceNSed by lcbo Because Touch of Wellness is fully licensed, guests may enjoy their favourite wine, beer or cocktail while relaxing. the extrA touch of WellNeSS At Touch of Wellness, they have thought of every detail. All you have to do is arrive and let total relaxation begin. A few of the ‘extras’ in store for you when you book an appointment are: •

Choice of a complimentary nonalcoholic beverage. A variety of spa delights include Lemon Blueberry

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• • •

Green Tea or German Chocolate Coffee. Lite bites with each beverage. Warm neck wraps, heated socks or mittens. A relaxing fireplace room for pre-and post-treatments.

chriStmAS pAckAgeS ANd pArtieS Touch of Wellness knows everyone wants to look and feel their best for the holidays. There’s no better way than booking some time just for you. This year, they are offering “The Christmas Carol Spa Packages,” offering four spectacular options. Visit their website to view each package. give the gift of WellNeSS The Touch of Wellness spa experience makes the perfect gift for any occasion. The team at Touch of Wellness will provide your friend, colleague or loved one with the ultimate in pampering and relaxation. the vANe buildiNg By purchasing the building next door, Joanne is now able to feature an extensive menu of services such as eyelash extensions, teeth whitening, reflexology, Indian head massage and the painless Soprano laser hair removal. beSt fAciAl progrAm iN North AmericA Touch of Wellness offers one of the best facial programs in North America. Burke explains that when a guest purchases one facial a month, every fourth facial is free. “You only get one face, let us help you to keep it youthful and healthy,” says Burke.

Lennox and Addington County General Hospital, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Burke also supports the co-op program at Napanee District Secondary School, working to help students develop successful business plans. Touch of Wellness speaks highly of the way the businesses support each other in Napanee and has partnered with many, including Touch of Class, Ellena’s Café, Seasons, Divine Hair Salon and Coffee Cravings.

commuNity iNvolvemeNt Burke believes responsible businesses should make every effort to be intimately linked to the community. Burke is a Rotarian and has supported many local fundraising campaigns including Hospice,

SucceSS Story When asked about the speed of her success, Burke expresses, “Fortunately, I have the love and support of amazing family, friends and an amazing business partner Roy Townsend, for which I am incredibly grateful.” When commenting

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on her team, tears begin to form. “I have played on many teams throughout my career and I know when a team has the right tools, a great product and space, a positive attitude and a spirit to serve, that your guests will never leave disappointed.” iN cloSiNg “The stresses we all face on a day-to-day basis accumulate over time. The results can be minor or devastating. It truly pays to take the time for self-care,” remarks Burke. Touch of Wellness Spa looks forward to helping you on the road to total wellness. Touch of Wellness Aveda Spa 86 Centre Street, Napanee 613.354.3131 www.touchofwellnessnapanee.com

Too Much Time On the iPad Can Make Eyes Sad

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

uring the winter months, there’s nothing cosier than curling up on the couch next to the fire in some comfy clothes under a toasty blanket — like a scene from an old Norman Rockwell painting. It’s how we spend much of the winter, contentedly sheltered from the wind and snow. What if Norman Rockwell were alive to paint the similar scene today? What would it look like? Let’s see…there’d be lamps instead of candles, hoodies, jeans and leggings

instead of nightgowns. There’d be a TV above the mantle, and instead of books, everyone in the family would be fixated on their iPad or tablet. While there’s lots of fun to be had outdoors during the winter, we definitely spend most of our time indoors. While arts and crafts and board games were the entertainment of yesteryear, more and more of us now entertain ourselves on the computer. Fantasy football addiction or Netflix subscription, anyone? Add how much time we spend on the computer at work to the amount of time we spend with technology at home, and you end up with a whopping amount of screen time! This prolonged digital viewing takes its toll on our visual system. It can cause headache, eyestrain, dry eye and blurred vision as well as neck and shoulder pain. These are the most common symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

Did you just get that diagnosed feeling? If so, you may be one of the many who suffer from this condition. Uncorrected and undiagnosed visual issues can increase the severity of CVS, while viewing distance, contrast, screen brightness and viewing angles may also contribute to it. It’s best to have a complete visual and ocular health assessment in order to determine potential causes and solutions to your computer-related issues. One of the newest technologies to combat CVS is a special lens coating that filters out the damaging high-energy, blue light that’s emitted from LED screens. This light can cause retinal tissue damage over time. This allows for healthier viewing, increased contrast and reduction of eye fatigue and stress associated with prolonged computer work. Ask your optometrist about it. It’s just another way for you to maintain healthy eyes and healthy vision.

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ABOVE Laurie Morgan, current executive director of Almost Home, and Mary Golbourne, founding executive director of Almost Home.

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There’s No Place Like Almost Home By Tori Stafford Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

or a parent, there is not a lot that causes more concern than their child falling ill; it is a time of stress that affects all members of a family and strains emotionally, physically, mentally and financially. This burden is magnified for parents who must travel to seek medical help for their children. It is a terrible scenario to face, and one that can seem insurmountable for those children and their families visiting Kingston to receive care from one of our elite hospitals. That is, until those families find Almost Home. Appropriately named, Almost Home has 11 rooms open to precisely those families, as well as those with infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Kingston General Hospital. This allows parents and siblings to remain close to their loved one while they are in hospital, while maintaining a sense of normality. It also acts as a place for families to come between appointments, or for parents to use for respite. It is a place to call home until these families can go home, and it is a place that was born out of necessity — and the effort and determination of those who saw that necessity. “The house opened in 1991, but it was a group of people a few years before that who had seen the need, and were working really hard behind the scenes to make it happen,” says Mary Golbourne, who was not only a member of that group herself, but is also the founding executive director at Almost Home. “This group, which was mainly hospital staff, saw parents with either

kids in paediatrics, or tiny babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, who lived out of town. They wanted to be with their kids all of the time, but couldn’t because there wasn’t a place for them to stay nearby they could afford.” Twenty-five years later, Almost Home has helped countless families stay close to their ailing young ones. With only two full-time staff members, it is a Kingston mainstay thanks to the over 100 active volunteers that clean and maintain Almost Home, says Golbourne, who still actively volunteers herself. Beyond the compassion and diligence of those who created Almost Home, along with those who work there daily and those who volunteer to ensure its continued operation, the facility is one that could not exist without those Kingstonians who support it. “Even though people in Kingston, by and large, don’t use Almost Home, they make sure it happens, because they really support Almost Home fundraising events,” says Golbourne, noting that despite being open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the not-forprofit maintains an annual operating budget of less than $300,000. “That is the community saying, ‘We think this should be here, and we believe in this, even though we don’t use it.’ Almost Home exists because of the community support, the volunteers and those dedicated to donating. It really is quite amazing.” To find out more about Almost Home, volunteering opportunities, and upcoming fundraising events, visit www. almosthome.on.ca.

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Canine Helping Your Helping Your a Cognitive Dog Maintain Dog Maintain a Dysfunction Healthy Weight Healthy Weight Syndrome • Has trouble finding the door, or stands waiting for the door to open on the hinged side • Seems to forget why she went outside

Changed Interaction with Family Members

Dr. Tim Keller

Dr.Veterinarian Tim Keller Dr. Tim Keller Veterinarian Veterinarian

CataraquiPet PetHospital Hospital Cataraqui 1183 Midland Ave., Kingston Cataraqui Pet Hospital 1183 Midland Ave., Kingston Located in Cataraqui Pet Centre 1183 Midland Ave., Kingston Located in613.384.0986 Cataraqui Pet Centre Located in Cataraqui Pet Centre 613.384.0986 www.cataraquipethospital.ca 613.384.0986 www.cataraquipethospital.ca www.cataraquipethospital.ca

J J

Doesust your older dog as with their human exhibit any ofobesity the in dogs counterparts, ust as with their human is on thesymptoms? rise. Being overweight following counterparts, obesity in dogs can cause a number of other

is on the rise. Being overweight Disorientation Confusion problems and is theor underlying reason for

can cause a number of other many visits to the veterinarian. • Appears lost or confused in familiar problems and is the underlying reason for many visits to the veterinarian. surroundings Dogs are considered overweight when • their Doesn’t recognize familiar people weight is more than 15 per cent Dogs are considered overweight when • above Doesn’t respond to his name or what it should be, and obese when their weight is more than 15 per cent verbal cues above what it should be, and obese when

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• Doesn’t seek attention as often their weight is more than 30 per cent • Walks away while being petted aboveweight the ideal. Studies indicate one their is you more 30 per cent • Doesn’t greet as than enthusiastically in three dogs seen by veterinarians are above the ideal. Studies indicate one as usual overweight. So why do some dogs have three dogs seen by veterinarians area • inDoesn’t greet other family members weight problem? overweight. So why do some dogs have a weight problem? Changes in Sleep and of course, NUTRITION Nutrition, Activity Levels plays a big role.Nutrition, The number meals NUTRITION of ofcourse, and treats dog is • plays Sleeps more during the day a biggiven, role. and The whether number the of meals fed table scraps can contribute to weight • and Awakens often and or sleeps less treats given, whether theduring dog is gain. Interestingly, study showed obese the night fed table scraps cana contribute to weight dogs were more likely to be fed a higher • gain. Wanders or paces Interestingly, a study showed obese volume cheaper foods than dogs wereofmore likelybrand to be fed a higher premium brands. Commercial foods high Loss of House-Training volume of cheaper brand foods than in carbohydrates are a less expensive brands. Commercial foods high • premium Urinates in the house way to meet caloric needs, do not in carbohydrates are a house less but expensive • provide Has accidents in the shortly optimal nutrition. Oftentimes, way to meet caloric needs, but do not after being outside well-meaning ownersOftentimes, follow the provide optimalpet nutrition. • suggested Forgets to ask you to go out guidelines on the package well-meaning pet owners follow the according to the dog’s current (possibly suggested guidelines on the package These symptoms may not be the signs of excessive)to weight, rather than the weight according the dog’s current (possibly “normal old age” that we may be inclined they should be. excessive) weight, the weight to attribute them to. rather Your than dog may have they should canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), caused AGE Age be. is also a factor that can

by contribute age-related in the brain. You to changes weight gain. Just as when AGE Age is also a factor that can know your pet best and will be the first to we age, dogs lose lean body mass, which contribute to weight gain. Just as when notice changes in behaviour as he ages. reduces their caloric needs — particularly we age, dogs lose lean body mass, which when activity levels decrease, as well. If reduces theirCCD caloric needs — particularly Dogs with may show of you continue to feed your dogsigns the same when activity levels decrease, as well. If confusion and various other behavioural amount as he ages, he will gain weight you continue to feed your dog the same changes not needs a normal part of becausethat his are energy are not what amount as he ages, hemay will be gain weight aging. Sometimes there genuine they once were. because hisfactors energy contributing, needs are notsuch what age-related they once were. neutering, sex as NEUTERING deafness, loss Following of vision or pain from hormones are reduced, which in believe turn can arthritic joints, but researchers NEUTERING Following neutering, sex CCD is caused by physical and chemical hormones are reduced, which in turn can

changes that affect the brain function in older dogs. Dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction show deposits in their brains of a protein called amyloid in patterns similar to the amyloid plaques found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. CCD is distressing for both the dog and the owner. The dog becomes isolated and the slow metabolism and affect the brain’s family misses the companionship of their abilitymetabolism to determineand when the the dogbrain’s is full. slow affect pet. Some symptoms may be alleviated However, you can prevent post-surgical ability to determine when the dog is full. through treatment. After ruling out other pudginess. consumption can However, youFood can prevent post-surgical potential causes of the behaviours your increase in dogs that are allowed to graze pudginess. Food consumption can veterinarian may that consider medication. freely. Iningeneral, theare amount you feed increase dogs allowed to graze Many dogs will respond favourably to your dog should bethe decreased by freely. In general, amount youabout feed the drug S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe). 20 per cent. your dog should be decreased by about Some will show improvement in certain 20 per cent. RISKS relatively ASSOCIATED WITH symptoms quickly, while in OBESITY The potential other dogs it may run into consequences the second RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH of obesity in The dogs are significant and can month before you see a difference. If OBESITY potential consequences include a decrease in longevity, increased you choose to are go this route, or is of obesity innot dogs significant andit can likelihood of developing osteoarthritis, ineffective, there are some other options. include a decrease in longevity, increased an inability to tolerate exercise or heat, Fatty acid supplements, particularly likelihood of developing osteoarthritis, increased dangers when undergoing Omega 3s, can help. There are a number of an inability to tolerate exercise or heat, anesthesia,dangers diabetes,when hypothyroidism, complementary herbal therapies and even increased undergoing urinary incontinence and an increased diets that claim to have a beneficial effect. anesthesia, diabetes, hypothyroidism, chance of developing cancer. Night-time restlessness and pacing can be urinary incontinence and an increased helped with a mild sedative. chance of developing cancer. As much as your dog tries to convince youmuch he is as starving, it istries verytoimportant If you notice changes in your older dog’s As your dog convince to maintain a healthy weight. Enlist the habits or behaviour, be sure to talk with you he is starving, it is very important help of youraveterinarian if the pounds your veterinarian. Above all, resist the to maintain healthy weight. Enlist the are stubbornly refusing to come off. urge to tell yourself that your dog is help of your veterinarian if the pounds Prevention isold.” the With best medicine. Ifyour your “just getting your help, are stubbornly refusing to come off. dog is currently at a healthy weight, do veterinarian can determine if the changes Prevention is the best medicine. If your your best to maintain that. Pounds can in your dog are associated with cognitive dog is currently at a healthy weight, do creep on slowly and one day you realize dysfunction syndrome and may be able to your best to maintain that. Pounds can your dog is “fluffier” than he should be. help your senior dog regain quality of life creep on slowly and one day you realize in his golden years. your dog ishas “fluffier” than he should be. Dr. Keller been providing experienced, and been compassionate care for Dr.skilled Keller has providing experienced, Dr. Keller has been providing experienced, companion animals in Kingston 1985. skilled and compassionate care for since companion skilled and compassionate care for animals in Kingston since 1985. companion animals in Kingston since 1985.

Staying Mindful this Holiday Season

Carly Stong owner Life Yoga 235 Gore Road (The Rideau Town Centre)

4 Cataraqui Street

Yoga is my thing, so of course I suggest it, but I don’t just mean in the yoga studio on your mat. You can also help avoid stress this season by staying mindful. Being mindful means paying attention (without judgment) to the present moment. We practice mindfulness on the yoga mat to help us develop the tools we need to stay grounded and present in any situation. In turn, we become more in tune with how we truly feel. This allows us to act more authentically to avoid being reactive and feeling out of control.

(The Woolen Mill)

613.546.5100 carly@thisisyourlifeyoga.com www.thisisyourlifeyoga.com

The holidays can feel chaotic and frenzied, but a mindfulness practice and these simple tips might help you stay present and enjoy this special time of year: GIVE UP ATTACHMENTS OF HAVING THE PERFECT HOLIDAY. The less attached you are to perfection, the less of a letdown it will be if things aren’t perfect.

h, the holidays — a joyous time of year full of love, kindness, and, in some cases, patience. While there are moments filled with smiles and laughter, the holidays can also mean stressing about everything from cleaning and cooking to shopping and family visits. This is a great opportunity to remember to live your yoga by staying mindful.

PICK YOUR BATTLES. You can’t go everywhere and see everyone. Be realistic and set limits. TAKE DEEP BREATHS. If your family starts pushing all the same buttons they always do around the dinner table, a deep breath can put everything in perspective. It helps you stay present and allows you to enjoy the special moments this time of year brings.

SAY “NO”. Feel confident saying, “No. That doesn’t work for me.” You need to say “no” sometimes, even if you feel guilty. Practicing self-care and selectively saying “no” is important to avoid burnout. ASK FOR HELP. Remember you are never alone. Often, loved ones are more than happy to help if pressure and stress becomes overwhelming. MAKE LISTS. It might be that Type-A personality of mine, but lists help keep me organized. They also make it easier for me to see what is really important and what I can let go of. Bonus: you get to cross things off when you’re done! DON’T BE AFRAID TO CHANGE YOUR HOLIDAY TRADITIONS OR START A NEW ONE. It’s your life and you always have choices. If you feel like hosting a take-out dinner party with a pajama dress code, then rock it! Ideally, don’t wait until stress lurks its overwhelming head. Make it a habit to use these tools now and you’ll be well prepared and more relaxed by the time the holidays (and all your friends and relatives) roll into town. HAPPY HOLIDAYS — and remember to breathe!

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Beautiful Smiles Begin at Pearl Dental Care Photos Stephen Wild

Technologically advanced denTal care

ne year ago, Pearl Dental Care underwent a complete transformation. With its new, state-of-the-art equipment, the west-end clinic is now among the most technologically advanced in the Limestone City. “We’re committed to providing our patients with the best care,” says Dr. Nasilla Asnafi, gesturing towards the clinic’s new Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC) machine. The CEREC machine, explains Asnafi, allows the team at Pearl Dental to

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fashion and produce attractive and durable inlays and onlays, veneers, new fillings or bridges, or restore implants and replace old amalgam fillings quickly and easily. Time spent at the dentist is dramatically reduced, providing a whole new level of dental care. “With the CEREC machine technology, we can make crowns and bridges in one visit, eliminating the need for multiple appointments,” explains Asnafi, who trained in Sweden, and obtained her Canadian license in 2000. “Before, it took two visits and the patient had to have a temporary crown in between. Sometimes, this temporary crown would fall off between appointments; this meant an extra

visit to have it put back on. Then you had to return a few weeks later to have the temporary crown removed and the permanent crown cemented into place.” Thanks to the CEREC machine, numerous trips to the dentist are no longer necessary to achieve beautiful and longlasting dental restorations. Within just 60-90 minutes, patients can walk out with a whole new smile. “We have had very good feedback,” she says. “Patients love it. It’s much easier.” Not only did Pearl Dental introduce this innovative technology that changes the face of dentistry, the clinic also implemented a new website, computer software and digital X-rays. The space is fully accessible, as well.

Making your coMforT a Top prioriTy At Pearl Dental Care, the ultimate goal is to help patients become informed about their oral and dental health in a warm and compassionate manner. “Patients are a part of the decision making,” says Asnafi. “We never tell patients what they have to have done; we always discuss and share the options. We ask them what their goals are when coming to the dentist. They are the main part of the decision. Our job is to inform, then educate them and let them decide.” During procedures, Asnafi ensures her patients are at ease. “I explain step-bystep what I am doing so they know what is going on,” she says with her kind smile. It’s no different with younger patients. To foster what can become a lifelong relationship, Dr. Asnafi’s office takes great care when educating parents and their children about dental care. “We encourage our families to bring their children within six months after the eruption of their first tooth or by one year of age,” says Asnafi. “Our No. 1 goal is prevention and this starts with them seeing us before a problem develops.” a TeaM coMMiTTed To your B r i g h T e sT s M i l e Working alongside Dr. Asnafi is Shannon Wilson, a Self-Initiated Registered Dental Hygienist and Mehrnaz Kaviani, a level II Certified Dental Assistant. To provide a warm welcome at reception is Stacey Allen. Together they form a team that provides unbeatable care for all patients. Whatever your dental needs, Dr. Asnafi and her team look forward to making the smiles of you and your family brighter. Visit them at pearldentalcarekingston.ca. Pearl Dental Care 1748 Bath Road, Kingston 613.389.0650 pearldentalcarekingston.ca

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Restore Your Smile

Dr. Nasilla Asnafi Pearl Dental 1748 Bath Road Kingston 613.389.0650 pearldentalcarekingston.ca

What iS ChaiRSide eConomiCal ReStoRation of eSthetiC CeRamiCS (CeReC)?

ears ago, dentists had no choice but to restore damaged teeth with metal fillings and crowns. Modern technology has given us more options. With CEREC crowns, you can restore stability to your mouth without compromising the health and beauty of your smile. The CEREC system allows the dentist to fashion and produce attractive and durable inlays and onlays, veneers, new fillings or bridges, or restore implants and replace old amalgam fillings, all in just one visit. WhY ChooSe CeReC? A significant benefit of CEREC is that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healthier than other restorative options.

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In the past, almost all restorations were done with gold, amalgam or other metals. CEREC uses all-ceramic material that is durable and biocompatible with your teeth. In other words, it is safe and is resistant to wear. CEREC also allows your dentist to save more of the healthy tooth structure. Teeth that would have previously been lost can now be restored with CEREC inlays and onlays. This is because CERECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state-of -the-art bonding requires only a small amount of tooth structure to restore the tooth to its full function. In addition, CEREC is used to create beautiful veneers, and for restoring chipped or discoloured front teeth. Another advantage of CEREC is that the entire procedure, from start to finish, is done in one visit. This means less time is spent at the office getting shots and having your teeth drilled! Before, getting a crown meant two visits to the dentist. First, you had to go in to have the tooth prepared, an impression taken, and a temporary crown put on. Sometimes this temporary crown would fall off in between appointments, which meant an extra visit to have it put back on. Then you had to return a few weeks later to have the temporary crown removed and the permanent crown cemented into place. Thanks to CEREC, multiple trips to the dentist are no longer

needed to achieve beautiful and longlasting dental restorations. hoW doeS CeReC WoRk? First, your dentist will examine your teeth to determine what type of restoration is best for you. After tooth preparation, an digital impression of your teeth is taken using a special 3D camera. The image is transferred to a computer, where your restoration is fashioned using Computer-Aided Design (CAD). This technology takes every clinical detail of your case into consideration, creating the most precise restoration. Next, these exact specifications are sent to our inoffice milling machine. In a matter of minutes, this state-of-the-art device fabricates your custom, colour-matched restoration. Finally, your restoration is fitted, polished and bonded in place. The entire process only takes one to two hours, depending on the extent of your dental work. Today, more than 20 million CEREC restorations have been completed worldwide, and this number keeps growing. CEREC remains one of the most trusted methods of restoration within the dental community, and for good reason. Do you live in or around Kingston? Call us today to find out more about CEREC single-visit restorations.

NOVEMBER 20-30 The Kingston Meistersingers Presenting “Anne of Green Gables” Octave Theatre NOVEMBER 21 Taste! (annual fundraiser by the Arthritis Society) Confederation Place Hotel

events KINGSTON

NOV - JAN

NOVEMBER 29 Sam Roberts Band Rogers K-Rock Centre DECEMBER 6 Mauricio Montecinos Latin Fusion Band Christmas Fiesta Musica Octave Theatre DECEMBER 6 Orchestra Kingston Concert: Sing Along Messiah Salvation Army Citadel DECEMBER 7 Afternoon at the Opera The Grand Theatre DECEMBER 12 Hunter Hayes Rogers K-Rock Centre DECEMBER 13 The Nutcracker The Grand Theatre DECEMBER 14 The Barra MacNeils: An East Coast Christmas The Grand Theatre DECEMBER 14 Outdoor Christmas Party for the Animals Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area DECEMBER 16-17 Kingston Symphony Candlelight Christmas St. George’s Cathedral JANUARY 19-25 Skate Canada 2015 National Skating Championships Rogers K-Rock Centre

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Candlelight Christmas: Kingston Symphony Presents Annual Holiday Concert By Katrina Geenevasen Photos Stephen Wild

nce again, the Kingston Symphony is bringing the sweet sounds of the season to the Limestone City with their annual sell-out show, Candlelight Christmas.

This yuletide tradition — held at the historical St. George’s Cathedral on King Street — never fails to impress. This year, promises symphony conductor Evan Mitchell, will be no different. “While I don’t want to give away too much, there will be quite a few surprises during the show; delightful surprises I’m sure everyone will love and will enjoy,” he says. In Mitchell’s experience, there’s just “something” about an orchestral Christmas show. “It’s not just Kingston, it’s everywhere,” he says. Having come from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Mitchell is a Christmas concert veteran, and has learned over the years what his Christmastime audiences enjoy and expect. “I really believe there is some magic or some kind of spiritual force about these shows, because people are really fanatical about Christmas shows. Not just in that they make a point of showing up year after year, but they are insistent on hearing certain things. There’s really an element of tradition; people get used to certain pieces and certain ideas.” It’s a holiday concert for everyone — from small children eagerly anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus himself, to grandparents reliving the memories of Christmases past. “It’s really a family affair, so I’m keeping that in mind,” says Mitchell. With a few non-traditional takes on old holiday favourites, as well as several orchestral works, every piece throughout Candlelight Christmas promises to be music to the

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ears. “When I look at putting these shows together, I look at that feeling of sitting beside a fire having a warm cup of cocoa with marshmallows; that’s the gastronomical equivalent of a Christmas show.” Featuring the Kingston Symphony and the Kingston Choral Society, Mitchell says he has a few things up his musical sleeves that will bring the audience’s experience to the next level in terms of interaction and surprise. “I’m itching to tell you some of the stuff, I really am,” he says during his interview with Fine Lifestyles Kingston. “But I want people to go in expecting all

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the classics, as well as some surprises. We will deliver both in spades.” The venue itself — designed by Kingston’s first practicing architect Thomas Rogers and built in 1825 — lends itself beautifully to this musical Kingston tradition. “Acoustically, it’s a beautiful space,” says Mitchell. “It’s also an absolutely beautiful building; a stunning cathedral, a beautiful work of art. There is also a sense of spirituality, tradition and history in a building such as that. So it’s really a great setting on all counts for an orchestra Christmas.”

Whether you’re a fan of Christmas classics or enjoy a rousing rendition of something just a little bit different, Mitchell says Candlelight Christmas will deliver on all fronts and continue to be one of Kingston’s favourite holiday traditions. “We’re really proud of this show, and we’re very much looking forward to putting it on for you, our audience members.” For show information, visit www.kingstonsymphony.on.ca or call 613.546.9729.

THE KINGSTON SYMPHONY PRESENTS

LIVE MUSIC FOR ALL AGES CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS December 16 & 17, 2014 | 7:30 p.m. St. George’s Cathedral Hear music written to celebrate the season and sing along with the Kingston Symphony and Kingston Choral Society to your favourite carols.

A CELTIC JOURNEY January 17, 2015 | 7:30 p.m. Grand Theatre Local fiddling sensation Kelli Trottier joins the Kingston Symphony for an electrifying, toe-tapping Celtic celebration.

RACHMANINOFF & TCHAIKOVSKY March 1, 2015 | 2:30 p.m. Grand Theatre An afternoon featuring Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, and Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini with pianist Avan Yu.

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 our website or call (613) 546-9729 to order a brochure.

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ElEgant and dEcadEnt:

Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

ICewInes By Kim Meathrel

ntario is best known on the international wine scene for its critically acclaimed icewines. Although we did not invent icewines, we have claimed them as our own. To make an icewine, the grapes are left on the vines far past the usual harvest dates. This allows the grapes to dehydrate and concentrate their sugars. Essentially, they start to raisin on the vine. A late harvest wine would be made out of these partially dehydrated grapes with concentrated sugars. To make an icewine, however, the grapes are not picked until they are naturally frozen on the vine. According to the Vintners Quality Alliance, producers must wait until a sustained temperature of -8 C, with -10 C to -12 C being considered optimum. This freezes the water inside the berries and concentrates sugars even further. The grapes are usually picked at night and pressed as quickly as possible after harvest. They remain naturally frozen â&#x20AC;&#x201D; no

artificial refrigeration â&#x20AC;&#x201D; during this process. The grape presses are set to pressures much higher than used for regular table wine production and the juice obtained is concentrated and high in sugar. A small quantity of juice is attained; only about 15 per cent of that gotten during table wine production. This is one of the reasons icewines are more expensive than most table wines; the same amount of grapes produces much smaller quantities of wine. The high-sugar juice is then fermented by yeast to produce alcohol. This is the same process used to produce table wine, but the yeast used during fermentation of icewine is not able to use up all the sugars and leaves a wine that remains high in sugar content and lower in alcohol levels than table wines.

more variable. Many years, it does not get cold enough to freeze the grapes on the vine. Icewines are often served on their own as desert, but also pair nicely with strongly flavoured and highfat content dishes such as foie gras, or aged or blue cheeses. They can also work well with charcuterie platters. For those who find icewines to be too sweet for their palate, they can be mixed with a dry champagne or sparkling wine for a refreshing cocktail. Kim Meathreal is a sommelier and the owner of Decantress Wines and Spirits.

Ontario has the perfect climate to produce high-quality ice wines. Our warm summers allow the grapes to ripen fully and then cold (but not too cold) winters allow the grapes to reliably freeze. The winters in Germany and Austria, for example, are much less predictable and Sommelier Kim Meathreal. Photo by Suzy Lamont.

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Icewine Martini Personally, my favourite way to enjoy ice wine is in an ice wine martini. It’s the ultimate Canadian cocktail.

Here’s my personal recipe: 1 oz of Angel’s Gate (Niagara) Cabernet Franc icewine 1.5 oz of Dillon’s Small Batch Method 95 Vodka (distilled from Angel’s Gate grown grapes) Splash of sparkling water and a frozen grape for garnish Enjoy!

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COOKING WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS

Home

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nothing More Local than By Tori Stafford

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here is no denying those in Kingston are passionate about eating local, a trend reflected in the plethora of restaurants and food vendors using locally-sourced ingredients in their menus. But few people, locally or otherwise, eat out for every meal of the day, seven days a week. After all, there is nothing like home cooking and nothing better than gathering with family and friends around the dinner table. Bringing local produce, meats and dairy, as well as locally produced preserves, spice blends and marinades to your table might be easier than you think. “In the last several years, it has become much easier to incorporate local ingredients and products into home cooking because of the increase in availability through farmers’ markets, farm stands and businesses that are becoming more vigilant at the demand for local products and supporting local producers,” says Brenda Ronan, owner and operator of Three Red Aprons. Ronan, who is also the cook at Amherstview Golf Course, knows all about sourcing ingredients locally. Like many restaurants, cafés, food trucks and vendors, Ronan has discovered that using local produce, meats and dairy is beneficial in more ways than one. One of the best benefits for those around your dinner table is the taste and quality. “My feeling is fresh is best, and you can

actually tell the difference in so many ways between something farm fresh and something you buy in a regular grocery store. There is a distinct crispness and snappiness when you cut into an onion that is straight from a farm; not to mention they seem to be able to make me cry more,” Ronan says with a laugh. “Fresh herbs are far more aromatic and potent in their flavours. If you’ve ever had fresh meat over frozen, for example when it’s turkey time, you can taste the quality, how much more flavourful and tender it is.” While creating more exciting and enjoyable meals at home, those who support local food producers are also helping the local community. “Buying from and supporting local food producers creates jobs and economic growth in communities across the province,” says Foodland Ontario. “Consumers should be encouraged to ask their local stores for Ontario-sourced food.” As Ronan points out, sourcing local products makes the process of creating a meal far more enjoyable. “The best dishes, in my opinion, are those created while wandering stall to stall at markets, picking up fresh items, and being lead by your eyes, your nose and your imagination while you are handpicking each individual ingredient,” she says. “You shouldn’t be afraid to experiment with the local flavours and surprise yourself with what wonders you can discover.”

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COOKING WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS

The Love of Food,

Homemade for You By Tori Stafford Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

FineLifestyles

Kingston

The best foods are those made with love.

or Brenda Ronan, this is not only the philosophy behind the delicious items she sells through her business, Three Red Aprons, it is also how she built that business itself: with love. A mother of two and master of flavours, Ronan began Three Red Aprons earlier this year. Drawing from her wealth of experience cooking, baking and developing creative preserves for her own family and friends, Ronan created Three Red Aprons. She offers homemade, all-natural delicious delights that include as many local ingredients as possible. Using both traditional and contemporary home-style recipes, Ronan has an innate knack for heightening the flavour profile of staple favourites, such as pickles and barbeque sauce. When it comes to the tasty treats for the sweet tooth in all of us, Ronan has perfected recipes for new, exciting baked goods. Must-try items include her popular apple caramel tarts and the classic favourite loved-by-all: chocolate chip cookies. “Because what is a day without a chocolate chip cookie?” Ronan asks with her signature bubbly and warm charisma. Ronan’s happy-go-lucky personality, mixed with her determination to create the perfect balance of flavours in everything she creates, make her ideally suited for her position as the cook at Amherstview Golf Course. Beginning just this past June, Ronan cooks every meal served at the course, while also using the commercial kitchen in her downtime to cook and bake the Three Red Apron products she sells at markets and festivals. From using Three Red Aprons salsa on the nachos to creating her own signature wing sauces and dredges, Ronan has built a clientele at the course, where Three Red Aprons products are sold and crowd-pleasers like mango salsa and red pepper jelly fly off the shelves. Yet, still holding that original philosophy close, Ronan ABOVE Brenda Ronan

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COOKING WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS

mango Salsa Chicken Wrap By Brenda Ronan This recipe is one I came up with on the fly — it really speaks to my “everything but the kitchen sink” style of cooking. I love that it is comprised of leftovers, and doesn’t require a special trip to the store for ingredients. It is quick and simple, and can be a snack or part of a meal. The mix of colours and flavours please both the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients: Roasted chicken breast meat, cut into strips 1 sweet pepper, any colour 1 stalk of celery 2 heirloom carrots (or 1 regular carrot) Juice of 2 limes Handful of cilantro, chopped Flour tortillas Shredded cheese to taste (optional) Three Red Aprons Mango Salsa

Directions: Julienne the vegetables into fine matchsticks and mix them together in a medium-sized bowl. Pour the fresh lime juice over them, and toss with the cilantro — essentially, this is a fresh little slaw. Sauté the chicken breast strips in a pan with a little bit of cumin, salt, pepper and chili powder. Lay chicken breast strips on the flour tortillas and cover with some slaw. Spoon Three Red Aprons Mango Salsa on (if you are adding cheese, this is where you should do so) and then wrap.

is venturing to share the love and her array of Three Red Aprons products. Together, Three Red Aprons and Amherstview Golf Course are hosting a Christmas open house at the clubhouse on Saturday, Nov. 30 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Open to all, the event will feature product samplings from Three Red Aprons, as well as displays and information on their catering and gift basket options. Additionally, Three Red Aprons recently joined the Kingston Public Market on

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Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. For Ronan, this is a natural next step toward opening her own store — which she plans to do soon — and offering fresh, homemade products with a side of love to as many people as possible. “I always say that I cannot fix the world, but I can fix some food,” says Ronan, noting that raising two daughters with her high school sweetheart has not only given her more practice, but also the name for her company. Three Red Aprons refers to

Ronan and her daughters’ donning a red apron each when cooking or baking. “This is real home cooking, and because I also do gift baskets, it’s a great way to really share that ‘Homemade with Love’ cooking with just about anyone. There is nothing better than seeing a smile when someone tastes something they love.” Three Red Aprons 613.532.9806 brenda@threeredaprons.com www.threeredaprons.com

Safari Cake Boutique is Kingstonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peanut-free bakery and candy store. We specialize in custom designed cakes for weddings, birthdays, milestones, retirement, corporate and more! We also specialize in cupcakes, pies, tarts, dessert catering and more. We stock cake decorating supplies that are peanut-free, as well! Contact us now for all your cake needs. 842 Gardiners Rd, Kingston | 613.384.5100 info@safaricakes.com | www.safaricakes.com

COOKING WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS

Baking Up a Local Legacy By Tori Stafford Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

ABOVE Steve McIntosh owner 90

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ne of Kingston and the Islands’ most popular mainstays, the Wolfe Island Bakery is simply a part of life — it’s where Kingstonians and islanders go to pick up staples like bread or dinner rolls, and to satisfy cravings for delicious sweets and baked goods.

This pivotal moment led McIntosh to discover a passion for baking, and so he opened a stall in the Kingston Public Market in 1980. Soon, locals were frequenting the market to grab the tasty treats that have long since become favourites — like the bakery’s famous cinnamon buns and buttertarts, all made by hand from scratch.

For owner Steve McIntosh, the bakery is more than just a part of life — it is his life. The family owned and operated bakery is not only where he works, it’s where his friends and loyal clientele gather regularly. That way of life came about thanks to a fateful drive. “I was driving along in my car, and saw a bakery for sale,” McIntosh says with a smile. “So I went in and I bought all the equipment…just like that!”

Within a few years, McIntosh opened the original bakery in Marysville on Wolfe Island. It was there McIntosh made yet another fateful discovery — the now-famous Red River Bread. Islanders still line up in the mornings to get their hands on it, as well as the cinnamon buns warm from the oven. With the Kingston location opening in 1995, the Wolfe Island Bakery on the mainland

has grown exponentially over the years to include their very popular café, which serves breakfast and lunch using their own freshlybaked goods and as many locally-sourced ingredients as possible. The café is regularly full, with a line up at the door, and their soups, sandwiches and sweets are also available for catering events and luncheons. With the holiday season upon us, the bakery’s catering options offer fuss-free solutions to those hosting festive gatherings. Meanwhile, the Christmas products available from the Wolfe Island Bakery are perfect for serving at parties, or gifting to friends, family or co-workers. Their wide range of holiday baking includes traditional fruitcakes, puddings, shortbread cookies, and a large variety of squares, truffles and treats — ideal for sharing or enjoying yourself with a warm cup of cocoa, McIntosh says. For McIntosh and his dedicated staff, it is the people they serve that help make the Wolfe Island Bakery what it is today. “It’s a really great place to work, because of the people, really,” says long-time server at the Kingston location, Val Attenborough, noting that she knows the orders of the loyal regulars at the café by memory. “I have a lady who comes in six days a week, and customers who know me by name. It’s always nice to see customers smiling back at me, and enjoying their food or sweets.” Wolfe Island Bakery (Main Store) 311 Queen Street Kingston 613.545.9434 www.wolfeislandbakery.com (Wolfe Island location) Main Street Marysville, Wolfe Island (Market locations) Kingston Public Market Springer Market Square Kingston Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday Queen’s Farmers’ Market Outside the John Deutsch University Centre Queen’s University Campus Kingston

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Discover Kingston’s Galleries rt A Benefit A r fo r e is ra d n Fu The Kenya Initiative: t to From Stree School

New Works by Grace George • Wine & cheese • Nov. 29 3-5 pm

galleryraymond.com

Harambee, A Benefit Fundraiser Silent auction • Wine & cheese Gallery Raymond, 334 Princess St Saturday, Nov. 15th • 12-5 pm & 8-10 pm

ZEALmetal 190 Sydenham Street • 613.536.5288

Kingston Frameworks 198 Princess Street • 613.546.1868

Gallery Raymond 334 Princess St • 613.549.2477

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zealmetal.com

kingstonframeworks.ca

Kingston Glass Studio & Gallery

Earth to Spirit ~ Explore the Extraordinary!

56 Queen St • 613.547.9149 kgsg.ca

340 King St East • 613.536.5252 earthtospirit.com ~ facebook.com/earthtospirit

Kingston

BRIDGE OF THE

AMERICAS By Ken Beattie, NPD, Ph.D., Enrichment Speaker Photos courtesy Oceania Cruises

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he weather encountered during a Canadian January is often less than balmy! Indeed, this may be why so many Canadians are found aboard cruise ships sailing exotic lands, enjoying the warm weather of the tropics. I for one will be soaking up the sun from January 16 to February 3, 2015 aboard yet another exotic adventure with Oceania Cruise Line’s beautiful Regatta.

As the enrichment lecturer aboard, my responsibility is to enhance the already spectacular 18-day itinerary with itineraryspecific regular presentations, related to plants and peoples of the regions we visit. This voyage originates in Miami and meanders along the coast of Central America to the famed Panama Canal PREVIOUS Machu Pichu ABOVE Panoramic views of the Mayan Pyramids

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through which we have a daylight transit — spectacular! Roughly halfway through the itinerary, we will sail along the Pacific coast of Ecuador for several days until we reach neighbouring Peru. Docking in Lima for two days allows for an expedition to the famed site of Machu Picchu. Oceania regularly offers itineraries that include airfare as well as many of the “a la carte” options one would pay extra for on other lines. One example is dining options in the specialty restaurants, Toscana and the Polo Grill, requiring only a reservation and no additional fee. Actually, on a previous cruise we received a note from the concierge with reservations already made for us as we just hadn’t had time to make them ourselves. The Toscana experience was exemplary but not over-the-top fancy. We felt extremely welcome and very comfortable dressed in country club casual attire — no tie for me and most men weren’t wearing jackets.

If you like to dress a bit more “uptown,” that is perfectly fine too, and you do see some passengers who indeed dress. I often slide a jacket on simply because it hides a multitude of sins (and my tummy) after several days of cruise food. On occasion, we are invited to a “Captain’s Reception” and we do dress appropriately, including a tie and jacket for me and a dressy outfit for my wife. This affair typically happens once on an itinerary — very impressive events indeed. Oceania is very much a family, and that attitude and respect comes across in everything a guest experiences, including special functions with senior officers. Recently, on an Amazon expedition, the cruise director made a point of chatting with every individual sitting on the pool deck and addressed most by first name. This level of dedication and incredible customer service is a hallmark of Oceania and not to be underestimated. Never

have I felt any crew member was just being courteous out of obligation; their approach was always genuine. This sincerity was not applied specifically to me because of my position as speaker; it was standard and consistently remarked on by others. As a matter of fact, on our Amazon expedition more than 60 per cent of the passengers were repeat guests - that speaks volumes. Ask anyone who has sailed Oceania, and I submit the response will be similar. This itinerary aboard the beautifully refurbished Regatta is very popular; actually many categories are waitlisted. Mid-sized vessels (680 guests), tremendous guest services, the best food at sea, and a very interesting lecture series makes Oceania’s Regatta and this journey an absolute delight. I invite you to review the cruise and come along for the time of your life — no regrets. In the event your specific category is sold

out, as they do rapidly, you might consider joining me in October 2015 on a grand journey from Istanbul to Dubai. This itinerary is 21 days and offers fantastic rates including airfare. Sailing aboard the sister ship Nautica, we sweep our way through the most eastern regions of the Mediterranean, visiting Israel, passing through the Suez Canal, the great land of Egypt, sail the Red Sea and arrive in Dubai October 25, 2015. A lecture series is in development for this fascinating part of the world as well as our extended voyage to India, the Seychelles, Madagascar and South Africa. Plan, dream, save and then come play with us as we traipse the world in search of new and wonderful experiences; disappointment is not an option! Ken Beattie is the Manager of Habitat Programs with the Canadian Wildlife Federation. www.cwf-fcf.org www.oceaniacruises.com

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Memories Are Made of Small Moments

Beaches Turks & Caicos, Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios resorts boast the calmest Caribbean waters and are located on pristine, white-sand beaches caressed by crystal-clear seas, recognized as some of the world’s best. So jump in and play any way you wish!

Pam Franklin Travel Agent Marlin Travel Service Guaranteed 645 Gardiners Road, Suite 114 Kingston 613.384.4567 ext. 110 pfranklin@sg-travel.com

our daughter is begging you to hurry. Your son is gathering his things in a quick rush. No, they’re not on the way to school…they’re excited to begin their adventure-filled day at Beaches! It’s a simple escape. It’s only a short time from your busy schedule, but it’s a memory your kids will carry with them throughout their lives. They’re sure to remember the sunny beaches, warm sand, laughing and enjoying group activities and spending quality time with mom and dad. You’ve pictured it for a while, and now there’s never been a better time to take a Beaches all-inclusive vacation.

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Kid-Friendly Even little ones will have the vacation of their dreams with supervised enrichment programs for every age. All of the nannies and counselors are accredited by the International Nanny Association and provide unlimited care for toddlers and kids of all ages, all day, every day. Beaches exclusive partnership with Sesame Street makes them the only Caribbean resorts where kids can play every day with the lovable cast of characters. Fun For TweenS Tweens will enjoy the freedom to embark on adventures of their own, always under the well-trained eyes of professional staff. Soon enough they’ll be off kayaking, and competing in Beach Olympics and Xbox tournaments at the Xbox Play Lounge. At night, they can star in their own fashion show and talent contest or kick back and watch a big-screen movie. TAKe TiMe For you This is your vacation too, so prepare to be rejuvenated at the award-winning Red Lane Spa, a blissful sanctuary where aromatic island therapies magically erase the stress of life’s daily routines.

dAncing in The dArK The clubs and bars at Beaches Resorts will keep you going all night long. Shoot a game of Billiards, take in a great show at the amphitheatre or do some dancing at Liquid Nightclub. SAvour The world They say variety is the spice of life, and who doesn’t like options when it comes to dining? With Discovery Dining, every delicious morsel at every incredible restaurant offers a new taste. SweeT dreAMS Spacious suites, elegantly trimmed in rich woods and lush fabrics is where happiness is found. Relax and settle down with the ones you love most to recount the adventures of the day. It is in that moment when you discover there’s nowhere else in the world you’d rather be. As you fall into a peaceful slumber, there is no better feeling than realizing you’ve spent this special moment together. BeAcheS reSorTS BoAST AwArd-winning SucceSS With more quality inclusions than any other resorts in the world, there is little wonder why Beaches Resorts continue to enjoy an unparalleled record of awardwinning success. With Beaches’ group rates, the savings are incredible. Military personnel and firefighters can also take advantage of discounts. Book now and save 60 per cent off your Beaches holiday by Dec.25.

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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THE GREAT ROOM

MAKING THE

Great Room GREATER By Tori Stafford

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Kingston

he “great room” of any home is designed to serve more than one function, but if the room doesn’t function aesthetically, it’s just not as great as it could be. Fine Lifestyles Kingston spoke to some of the top design minds in the city for some tips on bringing together style and function.

Flooring Starting from the ground up, the flooring in your room should be decided based on those who will use it, and what they will be using it for. For instance, if you plan on sharing food and beverages in the room, it’s always a good idea to avoid carpeting, and therefore stains. Hardwood flooring is easier to clean and far better for those with allergies, says Catherine Hyett, coowner of leclair-hyett design. When it comes to choosing which hardwood, there are some things to consider, as well, she says. “Homes with ‘faddish’ flooring will date far more quickly than those that stick with the classics,” Hyett advises. “Dark flooring requires more upkeep, since dust, scrapes and other marks are more evident than on a lighter wood. If animals are part of the family, minimize use of carpets and rugs and choose bamboo or a good quality hardwood flooring such as oak, birch or hard maple.”

Lighting The overall lighting of a room can make a huge difference in the way that room looks and functions, says Peggy Reid of Reid & Siemonsen Design Group. “With the right planning, lighting can totally transform a room from dreary to warm and inviting. Lighting is no longer just about functionality but a key aspect in the overall room’s design,” says Reid, noting it is important to consider both ambient and accent and task-specific lighting. Reid also points out light bulbs themselves entirely alter the way a room is lit, and that different ambient light levels are appropriate for the many functions a great room can serve. For instance, lower lighting is great for social gatherings, while bright lighting is ideal for reading or doing activities with children — a function dimmer panels can serve, every time. With the array of different lamps, fixtures, bulbs and baubles, lighting can make a huge impact in more ways than one. “Accent lighting can be used to highlight art, or have the light fixture itself be the work of art. There are so many beautiful lamps to add to a design scheme,” says Reid. “The right light fixture can define your personality and pull the entire room together.”

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THE GREAT ROOM

Furnishings When it comes to the furniture pieces in the great room, it is all about deciding what functions the room is going to serve, Reid explains. “It is important to consider the scale and functionality: how many people do you want to seat and how can you maximize this? It is important to group areas for conversation, TV viewing and reading,” she says. Because today’s world has an everincreasing number of electronics in almost every room, considering how the room will be set up before placing anything is crucial to ensuring any wiring is kept out of eyesight. This can be done easily with the wireless speakers available in almost all electronics stores, and the devices themselves can often be hidden away in shelving and cabinets if the room is well designed from the beginning. “It is important for case goods to complement each other to create an overall cohesive look. You can mix different types of wood finishes as long as there is similar tone or value and the style is the same,” Reid says, adding neutrality allows you to change up aspects of your design seasonally. “Sometimes you can add interest by having an eclectic accent piece, and keeping your main pieces neutral allows you to change up accents in the room.”

Fireplaces Fireplaces are a great way to add warmth to a space — both literally and visually — but the wealth of options can be daunting. Both the type and style of a fireplace can have a major impact on the overall aesthetic of the great room, from cosy and rustic to clean and contemporary. “Fireplaces can add a warm focal point to any room, and are becoming increasingly energy efficient,” Hyett explains, noting gas fireplaces seem to be most popular due to the ease of use and maintenance. “Remember current trends in fireplaces may be just that,” she advises. “Choose with care so you are not stuck with an element that will quickly date your home.”

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Choosing a Fireplace

townhomes and condominiums, although access to venting and strata requirements must be considered when renovating.

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

hether building a new home or renovating an existing one, homeowners know fireplaces offer warmth and comfort, create a focal point within the room, and add value to the home. What factors should one consider when choosing a fireplace? Type oF Home Detached singlefamily residences offer the most flexibility in terms of styles and types of fireplaces that can be installed. Fireplace options are also available for apartments,

Size oF SpaCe A fireplace should be matched to the size of the room, both visually and for comfort. The eye should be drawn to the fireplace as a welcoming, inviting design element without it overly dominating the space. Likewise, the heat output of the fire should be comfortable without over- or under-heating the room. Type oF Fuel While primarily a personal preference, the type of fuel may depend on the home’s location. In areas not served by natural gas, wood, pellet or propane may be the only options. Some people prefer the pop and crackle of real wood, while others prefer the ease and convenience of gas. inSerT, FireplaCe or STove? Inserts are sealed appliances designed to fit within the openings of existing masonry wood-burning fireplaces. Metal venting is installed through the chimney and is connected to the insert inside the opening. A backing plate is installed to conceal the gap. Today’s gas, wood and pellet inserts are highly efficient heaters that utilize air from outside the home for combustion. Inserts deliver warmth, comfort and style

while reducing home heating costs. Direct vent fireplaces can be installed in just about any room in a home. Designed to be affixed to wood or metal stud framing, these fireplaces can be vented horizontally through exterior walls, or vertically through the roof. Direct vent fireplaces come in many shapes and styles and offer the greatest flexibility in terms of appearance and installation. Stoves are free-standing appliances that, like direct vent fireplaces, can be installed in a wide variety of spaces. Available in gas, wood and pellet models, stoves are compact heaters offering great looks and comforting heat right where it’s needed with minimal installation requirements. From linear ribbons of flame emerging from a bed of glass crystals for contemporary environments, to authentic looking logs and inner brick panels for more traditional settings, today’s fireplace manufacturers offer a wide range of styles to suit any home’s décor. Whether warming a chilly space in a basement or creating an elegant design statement in a living room, fireplaces deliver years of comforting warmth, increase home value, and serve as an expression of the homeowner’s style.

Photo courtesy of Regency Fireplace Products. FineLifestyles

Kingston

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THE GREAT ROOM

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Haven Home ClimateCare:

The PeoPle you can TrusT By Tobie Hainstock Photos courtesy of Regency Fireplace Products

he chilling months ahead leave many homeowners thinking of the most efficient ways to keep their homes cosy.

For more than 20 years, Haven Home ClimateCare has been warming the homes and hearts of customers in the Kingston area. Specializing in furnaces, air conditioners, fireplaces, indoor air quality products, heat pumps and geothermal technology, Haven Home ClimateCare is a locally owned, family-operated business that offers expert service provided by their team of fully-licensed and factorytrained technicians. Over the decades, Haven Home ClimateCare has earned a strong reputation as a trustworthy business focused on providing top quality customer service. “We want to get to know our customers and have a longlasting relationship with them,” says Marci McMullen, owner. Because customer service is a No. 1 priority, it is important they provide top quality installations and maintenance of furnaces, fireplaces and air conditioning equipment. “We do quality work and we stand by that by offering a 100 per cent satisfaction guarantee,” adds McMullen. Haven Home ClimateCare offers free in-home consultations to all clients and potential clients wishing to receive pricing on any of the products they featured. After each in-home consultation, Haven Homes will contact the client to make sure they had a pleasant experience and confirm they received all the information they were looking for. McMullen says every installation includes a customer service follow-up call to ensure the client is completely satisfied with their experience. At this point, a free follow-up visit with the technical manager is offered to ensure the installation was completed to Haven Home’s impeccable standards and answer any questions the

client might have. Any issues will also be addressed at no extra charge. McMullen is pleased the entire team at Haven Home ClimateCare knows about and complies with the company’s high customer service standards. Their staff of 23 consists of licensed gas fitters, refrigeration mechanics, sheet metal mechanics and more. In-house technical training is also offered on a regular basis to keep the team up-to-date on new innovations in the field. Founder Bob McMullen is still kept busy working with any geothermal and special project clients. “We’ve also recently added a certified wood energy transfer technology technician to our staff,” she adds. As president of the board of directors of the ClimateCare organization, McMullen is also able to keep her finger on the pulse of all industry updates. Haven Home ClimateCare services all makes and models of furnaces, fireplaces and air conditioners. Customers are welcome to come into their showroom, view various products on display and ask questions about installation and maintenance. This is an excellent opportunity to see the equipment up close and set up appointments. In-home sales and service appointments may be booked evenings and Saturdays. The showroom is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Boasting experience, expertise and impeccable customer service, homeowners have trusted Haven Home ClimateCare for more than two decades. Their name and reputation continues to speak volumes in the Kingston area. Haven Home ClimateCare 2495 Princess Street Kingston 613.634.7722 havenhomeclimatecare.ca

LEFT staff photo by stephen Wild FineLifestyles

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SectionalS:

The Finishing Touch for a Perfect Great Room By Katrina Geenevasen Photos Stephen Wild

qual parts stylish and comfortable, today’s sectional sofas are more than a utilitarian way to furnish a great room. Whether your activity of choice is a relaxing glass of wine by a roaring fire, or hosting friends for an elegant holiday get-together, investing in a sectional is something all homeowners — including you — should seriously consider.

Family-Friendly

Available in easy-to-clean, familyfriendly fabrics and leather, today’s stylish sectionals are ideal for today’s busy families. “I see a family within their great ABOVE Photo courtesy Décor-Rest.

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room all doing their own thing, and I find a sectional really allows that,” says Luana Culmer, owner of Countrytime Furniture and Home Décor in Kingston’s west end.

great room is probably open to your dining room and your kitchen, you want to define that space, but you also want to keep flow in mind,” she suggests.

Designed to Fit Your Space

Creative Customization

With endless configurations available, homeowners can choose a sectional that looks like it was specially designed to fit their space. “You can make sure it fits your needs and allows you to do what you want to do with a room, rather than just dropping a sofa in there. It’s already more defined,” says Culmer. In fact, she adds, sectionals have the unique ability to carve out a room within a room. “Because your

Do you want a chaise, perfect for propping your legs up after a long day? With a sectional, it’s possible. Do you enjoy watching movies with your loved ones on the weekends? Opt for a sectional with a cuddler. With sectionals, the possibilities are truly endless. “By adding pieces, you can customize it,” says Culmer. The type of covering can also be

handpicked. Do you want a sectional in soft brown leather to complement a neutral room? It’s possible. What about a brightlypatterned fabric version? Also doable. “The options are endless,” says Culmer. “You can really do what you want with it.”

Sectionals Bring Warmth and Softness to Your Space

Sectionals allow homeowners to introduce texture into their great room, says Culmer, brushing her hand along a gorgeously upholstered black and white fabric sectional seat to demonstrate her point. For a pop of colour — and additional texture — add cosy toss cushions that come with all fabric sectionals, says Culmer.

Endless Options Await at Countrytime

At Countrytime Furniture and Home Décor, eastern Ontario’s largest furniture

showroom for handcrafted, Canadianmade furniture, homeowners have endless options when it comes to selecting the perfect sectional for their great room. Featuring Toronto-manufactured products by Décor-Rest and Legacy, Countrytime has the unique ability to meet the needs of all homeowners, whether the sectional style they’re opting for is sleek sexiness, or easy elegance. “Just bring in your room dimensions and some photos,” says Culmer, explaining the sales team at Countrytime is pleased to help homeowners decide what configuration and options are best for them. Countrytime Furniture and Home Décor 1245 Midland Avenue Kingston 613.634.1400 www.countytime.ca |

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THE GREAT ROOM

GT AIR SYSTEMS Celebrates 25 Years in Kingston By Melanie Furlong Photos Stephen Wild

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T Air has touched many homes and businesses since its inception 25 years ago. “We’re the hometown team. We know our community and our community knows us,” says Shawn Barber, general manager. “We’ve certainly played a healthy role in Kingston’s commercial and residential development.” The company, founded by owner Neil Glenn, offers heating, ventilation and cooling systems to both commercial and residential clients all the way from Brockville to Trenton, and has been growing and expanding its services to meet the needs of the community. As GT Air specializes in the commercial market, GT Air Home Comfort was launched in June 2008 to satisfy the new home and retrofit residential markets. The company has also grown to have a staff of 15, including mechanics, technicians and apprentices. “Neil Glenn has been very progressive in ensuring a happy and positive workplace,” says Barber, who joined GT Air in recent years. “He’s ensured the staff has opportunities and room for growth in all skill sets and training.” GT Air’s focus on customer service sets them apart and their clients often comment on it. Rev. David Blackmore of the Kingston Gospel Temple says the GT Air technician who worked with them was top notch. “He was very cordial in his dealings with all of our staff,” writes Blackmore. “Thank you for the excellent service you rendered to our facility through this man.” Barber frequently visits GT Air job sites to meet their customers and keep the lines of communication open. “We want to keep residential and commercial clients aware of new technologies

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THE GREAT ROOM that will dictate whether you make a small investment or a large one. “We have to feel out what the long-term goal of the client is,” says Barber. “We don’t want to over sell or over specify on a short-term home. But if you’re making a large investment, we’ll make sure it’s a better investment that offers you better warranties and long-term comfort.” A good part of GT Air’s business is also servicing the needs of property managers and condominium corporations in ensuring the buildings’ HVAC systems are running efficiently for the comfort of building tenants. GT Air works closely with Frontenac Property Management and numerous Frontenac condominium corporation boards. GT Air sells a wide range of ductless air conditioners, central air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, boilers, air cleaners, humidifiers, hot water heaters, ductless space heaters, thermostats, and much more for the home. “We have used forced air gas systems, radiant systems, hydronic radiant systems, and forced air hydronic systems,” says Barber. “We won’t say no to any call for any source of heat.”

Barber says GT Air has had a good 25 years. With their extensive history, experience and talent, they are positioned to continue earning new commercial and residential opportunities for another 25 years.

GT Air works closely with the client to make decisions on installations, service and maintenance. “We want the client to be knowledgeable about the equipment being installed,” says Barber. “Having efficient equipment that meets the specifications of the client is a big part of the conversation. They have to keep their product cool, but if there’s a way to do it and keep the hydro meter spinning a bit less, they’re all game for that.”

When working with a commercial client, like a small convenience store that requires much more mechanical and refrigeration components than a home,

In a new home or retrofit situation, one of the most important factors in choosing a heating or cooling system is the length of time you plan to live in your home —

and solutions,” he says. “We also want to be aware of any problems firsthand, if they occur. Beyond that, we see our clients regularly for planned maintenance and service.”

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GT Air Home Comfort has been working with a number of established homebuilders in the Kingston area for years. Builders such as Creative Homes by MacAdam, Sobella House and Home, C.P. Simmons Contracting and Barr Homes come back to GT Air time and again for their heating, cooling and ventilation expertise. They’ve also worked on numerous private custom builds. GT Air welcomes the opportunity to quote and specify anyone’s requirements for HVAC systems. If you have questions about commercial or residential heating and cooling systems, call the experts at GT Air Systems today. GT Air Systems Inc. GT Air Home Comfort 35 Terry Fox Drive - Unit 306 Kingston 613.634.8499 gtair.ca

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Quality Set in Stone By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild

here is nothing quite like the clean, smooth lines of stone finishings – from countertops and tub surrounds to fireplaces and coffee tables, stone can make a statement all on its own. Be it cool and contemporary, ornate and opulent, or rustic and rugged, stone finishings are a wonderful way to make a statement in your home. With the ability to stand the test of time and add value to your property, it is no wonder stone has been used throughout the ages in the makeup of some of the world’s most iconic buildings and homes of those the world over.

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For 30 years, Frank Garofalo has had a hand in creating some of these magnificent finishings right here in Kingston. Owner and operator of Milestone Fabrication, Garofalo spent decades working as a mason, working on exterior resurfacing, restoration and construction projects with his family’s contracting company. In 2006, Garofalo decided to use his talents to further his work with interior stone finishings and opened Milestone Fabrication out of his garage. Within three years, the business had grown substantially and Garofalo built the facility on Binnington Court, where Milestone Fabrication employs

two sales consultants, as well as five highly-skilled craftsmen who create a plethora of unique finishings, from countertops to wall sconces. Dedicated to using the very best in topquality marble, granite, quartz, soapstone and slate, Milestone Fabrication specializes in custom projects. Whether you’re looking for a modern, stone-walled wet room, or a classically-inspired marble countertop to fit both your vision and your pre-existing space, Milestone Fabrication has both the equipment and the skilled tradesmen to make it happen, Garofalo expresses. “We do custom work for both

residential and commercial clients. There aren’t many things we haven’t done,” he says with a smile. “Bathtub surrounds, shower walls, fireplaces, tables – you name it, we can do it.” With the rising popularity of stone finishings, a majority of the projects Garofalo and his team at Milestone Fabrication take on are either kitchen- or bathroom-centric, he says. Because his team works with each client from the initial consultation, through the stone selection and design processes and all the way to installation, Milestone Fabrication ensures each project is done correctly, professionally and to each client’s specifications. Using both automated equipment and specialized hand work, the team can create fittings for any scenario, such as countertops to fit an awkward space, or tub surrounds to work with pre-existing fittings. Because no two slabs of stone are the same and no two clients are alike, the custom creations Garofalo and his team deliver are always as unique as the client and the space they occupy. Milestone’s knowledgeable sales consultants guide clients through their selection process, with a collection of different quartz samples on display for clients to see and touch when making their selections. All other stone options are available for viewing in full-slab form in the yard at the facility. This, combined with their commitment to customer service and satisfaction in a timely manner, makes Milestone Fabrication one of Kingston’s leading stone fabricators and installers, with stone sourced from around the world in a seemingly endless array of colours, patterns, textures and finishes. Back Jason Broadfoot, Andre Beaupre, Keven Philibert, Cody Kendell Sitting Charmaine Niemann Front Frank Garofalo, Bev Hutchings

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“We do a lot of custom projects that are not simply straight lines, like this is,” Garofalo says, gesturing to the stunning large island in the Milestone Fabrication showroom. “For example, we are about to start working on a two-sided fireplace, which you can walk around, done entirely in stone.” With their ability to do intricate, customized hand work on a variety of different types of stone, Milestone Fabrication has even executed some of the less-common custom requests clients cannot have done elsewhere, Garofalo explains, pointing out the business card holders, elaborate backsplashes and ornate decorative pieces his team has made in the past. One of Milestone’s craftsmen is even currently working on a two-in-one custom checkerboard and backgammon board. Even though all clients present a unique project, one thing remains the same for Garofalo and his team when working on each and every one, he says. “We strive to do quality work, with great customer service, on time and with quick turn around,” he says. “These things are very important to us, and they are the key to our success, and to our clients’ satisfaction.” Milestone Fabrication 220 Binnington Court Kingston 613.507.5143

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Is It Time To Downsize?

Chris Lawson Owner

Seniors on the Move 640 Cataraqui Woods Drive Kingston 613.583.5001 www.seniorsonthemove.ca

to “stuff” and maintaining a large home is no longer a priority.

financial reasons, or merely the desire to have a simpler lifestyle.

You may be considering downsizing for a family member. Many adults are making this choice after retirement; after all, the move to a condo or apartment has several benefits, including more time to enjoy life.

When is the best time to downsize?

Here is a list of questions to help determine if you or a family member are ready to consider downsizing:

aking the decision to downsize your home and your lifestyle can seem like a tough decision. We’re all guilty of becoming attached to personal belongings — but that means you need a place to keep them. The more you have, the more space you need.

• • •

When we’re young, all of our belongings fit into one room. As life changes, so does our space — many of us go from one room to a home filled with our things. As many of us reach retirement age or beyond, we see value in time as opposed

•

• • •

•

Is mobility an issue? Are there concerns about living alone? Is maintaining the home and property becoming a task? Are friends and family nearby? Is health and safety a concern? Is the house simply too large or too expensive? Does the home and property need extensive repairs or modernization? • Is the home truly enjoyable?

The decision to downsize is different for everyone — whether it’s for health or

The answer is simple: when it’s right for you. When choosing your new home, it’s important to consider everything, including the financial and emotional factors. Relocating closer to family, friends or amenities can make downsizing an exciting new change. However, downsizing your home also means downsizing your belongings. It can seem daunting choosing which items need to go. If possible, involve family in this decision and pass important or sentimental items to the next generation. Companies like Seniors on the Move help to put your plan in motion by selling your property and finding you the perfect new home. As well, they can help you sort through your belongings and sell any unwanted items. They can work with your family member on your behalf to ensure the transition is a smooth one.

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SHUT THE

FRONT DOOR An Eye-Catching Entrance to Your Home

By Erin Legg

ne of the most important elements of a home’s curb appeal is the visual impact of the front door. This is the where the “welcome” extended to friends and family begins, and where homeowners can truly

make a design statement. Choosing a style of door is a big decision. Most importantly, homeowners should select a front door that matches the architectural style of the home. Here are some popular house styles and the corresponding door styles that complement the design genre.

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Victorian: The appreciation homeowners have for this style lies in its ornate decorative touches. The architectural detail found in the scrollwork, trusses and arches resonate a luxurious vibe, and the style of door is no different. Often, Victorian houses have panelled doors with window insets, and are usually a dark, elegant colour. Either a single or a double door entrance is well suited, given the space. Modern: These minimalist, sleek homes are designed with a “less is more” philosophy. Known for simplicity (not to be confused with “boring”), doors tend to be a slab style, which may or may not be accented with window panels. Glass is often

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used throughout the interior of this contemporary design, so we sometimes see entire glass doors on modern houses. Colonial: This European-inspired home, known for its geometric symmetry, typically features raised-panel wood doors. The doors themselves are either a natural wood finish, or painted to add a pop of colour. Narrow sidelights and transom windows work well with this style of home, and all trims are decorative. Bungalow: Homeowners are naturally drawn to the cosiness that comes from a bungalow, and the door is the first invitation to come on in. Typically, doors are flat panelled with simple casings. Depending on the exterior style of the home, the door can be painted or left as a wood finish. Glass, quite common in bungalow doors, is rectangular in shape. While the aesthetic function of your front door is to make a good first impression to your guests, its practical function is to withstand natural elements. Between the sun, wind, rain, snow and extreme temperature fluctuations, we demand a lot from our doors. Wood is a material known for its beauty

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and versatility. For doors to be left with a natural wood appearance, oak, cherry maple, walnut or mahogany are the top choices. Paintable wood doors are best made from softer woods, such as pine or hemlock. Solid wood doors are exquisite additions for your home, though they demand upkeep to ensure natural expansion and contraction don’t do damage. An option some homeowners take advantage of is wood veneered doors that are less susceptible to warping. The durability of steel makes it a top choice for homeowners. However, don’t classify this material as too drab for your front door. Best when painted, steel doors will not warp, crack or twist over time. They have a higher R-value than wood doors because of the insulting foam in their core. Steel doors are also available in high-end finishes, such as a stainable, laminated wood veneer. Aluminium is another hardy material for your front door, as it has a baked-on finish that will never rust or require repainting. If you want the wood look but are steering clear of a true wood product, opt for a fibreglass door. It can be easily replicated to look like real wood, although it will need re-staining every few years.

Bold, vibrant colours give style and elicit a “welcome” to visitors. While individuality and artistic expression should be practised, there are basic guidelines to keep in mind when choosing a colour for your front door. When faced with narrowing down your top colour choices, opt for a complementary colour that plays off your home’s exterior. Another easy option is to select a natural shade, as they tend to go with almost every colour imaginable. When truly stuck for a colour inspiration, pick up a hue you’ve already established in the yard or with front porch accessories. Never underestimate the power of accessories. Symmetrical placements, such as lighting or potted plants, go well with any architectural style. Don’t shy away from embellishments or mouldings: these can be added strategically to update a door. If you prefer more artistic additions, why not consider custom ironwork that still allows light to enter the door’s window, but adds an extra layer of security as well? If there is no porch or covering of your entranceway, your door can be accented with a pergola (best with a bungalow) or even a copper canopy (against a classic brick Colonial).

Why reside in the city when you can

at the lake?

Join RE/MAX in Selling Homes and Building Communities By Tori Stafford Photos Jen Fitzpatrick

t RE/MAX Realty Concepts Corp. and RE/MAX Finest Realty Inc., it’s all about opportunities – assisting clients with their real estate needs, building a vibrant community and helping develop and grow careers in real estate. With four locations in Kingston, Amherstview and Napanee, RE/MAX Realty Concepts Corp. and RE/MAX Finest Realty Inc. are looking to bring on new sales representatives with an

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energetic passion for real estate, says Cindy Haggerty, company owner. As Haggerty explains, working with her RE/ MAX brokerage is all about growth and development. “We want to attract new sales representatives to build and grow our business,” she says. “We also want to help these new representatives build and grow their own careers.”

Haggerty says, by being a brokerage that offers its agents more than just their company name. As part of the largest real estate organization in the world, RE/ MAX Realty Concepts Corp. and RE/ MAX Finest Realty Inc. offer training to representatives joining their team based on best practices and a wealth of industry knowledge spanning more than 40 years.

RE/MAX Realty Concepts Corp. and RE/MAX Finest Realty Inc. are “trying to make things a little bit different,”

With continual training options available, RE/MAX Realty Concepts Corp. and RE/ MAX Finest Realty Inc. extend training

and mentorship opportunities to their representatives on an “as much or as little as desired” basis in an effort to help them reach their desired career potential — or even see more success than they thought possible. “RE/MAX has a very good lead and referral program, and we provide all the tools and training to help our representatives serve their clients professionally and successfully,” Haggerty says. “We will bring in new representatives and train them so they are taught properly how the business works from day one.” What many people do not realize is those in real estate work as independent contractors, Haggerty explains. This means the work they do is for their own business, and that business becomes what they put into it. With programs offered in-house at no extra charge to their representatives, RE/ MAX Realty Concepts Corp. and RE/ MAX Finest Realty Inc. aim to create an environment that allows those on their team every advantage in the industry. As part of the RE/MAX organization, striving to have top agents providing the very best service to their clientele is what it is all about. “RE/MAX prides themselves on having better agents ... In Canada, RE/ MAX agents out-sell their competitors three to one,” says Haggerty. “So what we are looking for are the top, energetic agents who want to build their business, and we have the ability to help build their career and their future.” RE/MAX Realty Concepts Corp. 851 Norwest Road Kingston 613.389.7777 www.realtykingston.com RE/MAX Finest Realty Inc. 9 Commercial Court Napanee 613.354.5435 www.napaneefinesthomes.com

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Price Is What You Pay, Value is What You Get

The Danger Of Putting Cost Before Quality And Value

oday, many people seem to be too concerned about getting the lowest price, without thinking about the costs that decision comes with.

John Zakos president and kitchen designer Countywide Kitchens 1407 John Counter Boulevard Kingston 613.549.8650 www.countrywidekitchens.com

In our many years of business, we have worked with over 22,000 clients and done so very competitively, offering them all great value along with a wellpriced kitchen. We are consumers also, and understand what it feels like to get a great deal! Yet we also understand how important it is to look past the “free sinks and no-tax offers” to actually get a fair price that offers lasting value along with the expectation of design work that is second to none. So often as consumers, we take the “great price” and then are disappointed with our decision a short while later when we realize value and service were not a part of the package. A Kitchen Designer’s Role Exceptional and detailed design expertise is only one part of a professional kitchen designer’s knowledge. Guiding you through the decision making and understanding the scope of work required for your project is another. A kitchen designer with these

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skills adds value to the deal. Once the decisions are made and your order is placed, their job continues. An experienced kitchen designer should always ensure your project is finished properly and all of your expectations are met. The after-purchase service component is an important part of any kitchen design business. Upon the initial completion of the cabinet installation, it is customary for designers to schedule a walk-through review of the project with clients. During this review, discussion should revolve around project criteria and whether or not customer expectations have been met. Any deficiencies, concerns or add-ons should be documented by the designer. Service orders for replacement or additional components should then be submitted for order, and work details properly documented and prepared for the installation team so they can complete the project. Once all service items are received and properly inspected, an appointment should be scheduled with you to complete your kitchen. It all starts with a visit to a beautiful showroom like Countrywide Kitchens. The end result is your new, well-designed, quality kitchen that will be enjoyed for years to come. Always remember: Price is what you pay, value is what you get.

• Annie Sloan Chalk Paint

• One-Day Makeovers

• Scavolini Kitchens

• Staging for Re-Sale

• Home Décor

• Painted Furniture

themelonpatch HOMe & GARDen

357 Main Street, Bath | 613.881.0165 | www.themelonpatch.com

Maximize Your The Benefits Selling Potential of Using a During the Realtor When Winter Months Looking at New Home Construction

common question I get from sellers is, “When do you think is the best time to sell my home?”

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

It’s a great question and the answer isn’t as obvious as you may think. I personally have moved the winter, QUesTioN: Should I during use a Realtor summer andat fall. fallconstruction? move may have when looking newMy home been my favourite. ANsWeR: Yes, of course, and I believe most realtors feel thebuyers same. Iout currently There are always there and work theto Barr Home schedulethere. for open the on need move is always Also, if houses and meet many people struggling the “right” home comes on the market, an toinactive make buyer an informed about now hasdecision motivation. building a new home. There are so many Last winter was long and atook considerations to keep in and mindhard to make most of the spring with it. What knowledgeable decision — from differentwere sellers and to do? Many waited for the builders neighbourhoods, to costs weather to improve, which created a and incentives. Working with a personal massive amount of inventory Realtor, you will have access toand all anxious this sellers. If you thinking of listing information in aare timelier manner. Plus, this winter, you won’t be alone. Here are a they are invested in your purchase and few things to consider in order to improve want you to make the best decision today your potential. and forselling future resale.

Have Your Front Entrance Ready for Winter Showings Remember you have a few minutes to make a lasting impression. Put a large winter mat down that is big enough for many sets of boots; sometimes there could be as many as five sets of boots coming off at the front door. others for the after-sales is Clear area ofservice; clutter this or additional important information your realtor footwear and family gear; can anything provide to helpcould you make anIfinformed someone trip on. your front area decision. can fit a stool or bench, it goes a long way for buyers going out ofI homes. QUesTioN: Whyin and should use my own Realtor versus the builder’s Don’t Let the Snowdrifts Stop representatives?

Them Have your driveway and

ANsWeR: youandopt for Buyers your have walkways Ifclear salted. own been Realtor, you will have personal known to walk away before trying to representation. for asimple, get through Consider the snow. this It sounds moment: if youwinter were indays court, would you but some make it challenging wantto your lawyer representing both sides? stay on top of it. Probably not.

Way Have and the can lights on YourLight Realtor the is more detached when needed. Short days are tough, but shed light on the situation from a different there is nothing appealing about walking angle. He or she is working hard to ensure into agreat dark house.and Timers come in you make decisions ask thecan right Your Realtor also has access the entire handy for creating that warm and inviting Highlight Areas In toThe Home questions. landscape of the “new build”During spectrum.The That Are Appealing space. Having the exterior lights on is just I have assisted mymay clients withto make Have you Do Googled the builders Winter you have a home gym?inHave Personally, as important, and you want selections flooring andtocupboards; it’soutside the Kingston recently? There is some music area playing in it for showings. somefor adjustments show of the not because I am a designer, but because a Perhaps wonderful selection of houses from you have a family room with a of the house. prestigious builders who workis on I see what the public is looking for and fireplace? custom Make sure the fireplace is bestup forthe resale. Mythoughts! job is to help closely witha you to game createout. your warm Show off and place board Dodream you have whatKeep make informed decisions home. There are also builders who offerTurn clients your house the best you canand and keep a heated garage with a workbench? a home that suits their varieties designs that can modified it smelling pet-free andlifestyle, inviting. For the heatofon and show off be that wonderful purchase while making a smart investment towinter your liking. Keep in mind that some more information, give us ata the call. Stay space. Emphasize all your outdoor samewarm, time. Kingston. builders have better reputations than space and indoor rooms.

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NetworkiNg the right way: tips from

Charles the Butler By Melanie Furlong

hen you’re attending a business networking session, your goal is to meet new people and make a good impression. You want to put your best foot forward, but you may have a lot of questions about how to handle the situation: How should I shake someone’s hand? When should I shake it? When should I introduce someone I’ve just met? How should I introduce them? How should I introduce someone I’ve known longer? Charles MacPherson, better known as Charles the Butler from his regular appearances on The Marilyn Denis Show, and best-selling author of The Butler Speaks, says, “Everyone is attracted to selfconfidence whether you’re at a networking event or at a wedding. The secret is putting

others at ease. Having social skills relaxes you and will help you meet lots of people. It puts you in a position of power.” One of the first steps is to make a good impression with eye contact. Try memorizing the person’s eye colour as it will let you focus on them and what they are saying. Even if you know the answer to their question before they’re finished, don’t interrupt them. A good handshake, which consists of three pumps and release on the fourth, is also important. Then, turn off your cell phone, unless, of course, you are a surgeon on call or your wife is about to give birth. Even then, the phone should be set on vibrate and you should excuse yourself from the room to take the call.

“A cell phone is a tool,” says MacPherson. “In a networking environment, it is not a tool that will help you: it will hinder you. Unless someone says, ‘Would you like to exchange cards electronically?’ it should not be in your hands. You are there to pay attention to the people you are meeting.” The biggest mistake you could make at a networking or business event is to disrespect someone else in the room. “You may not agree with what that person is saying,” says MacPherson, “but even if they’re a goofus, as I like to say, at least give them some respect. They’re at the table for a reason and whatever that is, you have to respect them. If you treat everyone graciously, you’ll never be criticized for that. You’re a better person for it. People will want to do business with you because of the way you treat others.”

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After the event, it’s important to follow up with the people you’ve met. MacPherson says, “You can call the next day and say, ‘It was great to meet you. I know you are looking for XYZ and I have a good lead for you. Please let me know when’s a good time to sit down and meet.’ Don’t over push or abuse the new contact. You may have a good lead, but what you’re doing may not be a top priority for that contact.” Etiquette, or the social rules of how we interact, is not just for the rich. “Once you learn how to handle social interactions, your life will be made easier,” says MacPherson. “When you know what to do, you will be at ease.” Early in his career, MacPherson was working for one of Canada’s greatest families as a caterer when the lady of the house asked him if he would like to be her butler. She offered to teach him once a week on all aspects of the job, including everything from how to properly pack luggage to setting tables. Being a butler came naturally to MacPherson and he soon became majordomo of all their homes. Now MacPherson runs a butler school in Toronto and heads the hospitality advisory and consulting portion of Charles MacPherson Associates, consulting with clients all over the world. His career highlights include having tea with one of Canada’s prime ministers and working in the palaces of various royal families in the Middle East. “I was born in Thunder Bay, Ont., and see myself as an average Canadian,” says MacPherson.

Charles MaCPherson’s

Top 5

tips for NetworkiNg

1 2 3 4 5

Be respectful to everyone in the room Make eye contact with the person you’re talking to Turn off your cell phone A good handshake — three pumps and release on the fourth Follow up the next day

“I’ve had incredible experiences and when I’m in these situations I’m amazed at what a fascinating position I’m in.” Ford of Canada has recently hired MacPherson to bring its customer service representatives to the next level in service. “Customer service has no value, but it will bring customers back,” he says. “People will remember how they were treated and made to feel. It doesn’t matter where you are: at a networking event, at the office, at the dinner table, or in a coffee shop. Learning how to be of service is paramount.”

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COVER FEATURE

Investors Group

Looking Out For You and The Kingston Area By Tobie Hainstock Photos Stephen Wild

or more than 85 years, Investors Group has firmly believed building long-term relationships with clients is the best way to help individuals reach their financial goals at each stage of their lives. “What drew me to becoming a member of the Investors Group team was the personalized approach to meeting the long-term financial goals of clients,” says Jacquie Costron, Regional Director for the Kingston area. Financial planners are dedicated to taking care of their clients by helping them create a secure future for them and their families. It is a personal service that Investors Group takes very seriously. GROW “We really get to know clients well as we go through the various changes in their lives and help them achieve their financial goals,” says Costron. “It becomes a very personal relationship.” At Investors Group, the team assists clients by helping

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them identify their goals. “Everyone has different goals. Some want early retirement, some want to travel, others may have dreamed of opening a small business, while still others might want to be able to stay home with their children.” Investors Group builds a road map for their clients to help them reach their goals. “There are many ways to achieve those goals, too,” adds Costron. By going through a detailed process to determine what your goals and priorities are, your financial planner will look at the choice of solutions and help you implement them. At Investors Group, this is done by sitting down with clients and developing a written plan. A financial planner is then able to assist clients in finding the best financial products that will help them reach their goals. “In a way, it’s kind of like taking a road trip and using a map or GPS to help you get to where you’re going,” Costron observes.

Once the plan is written and in place, it’s a good idea to check in with your financial planner every quarter to see if there are any changes in your circumstances or in the direction you want to go. Adjustments can be made to your plan accordingly. A good plan will evolve and change and continue to ensure you reach your financial goals. ENJOY Your financial planner will help you achieve your goals by keeping you on track. We all enjoy fringe spending such as dinners out, attending concerts and going on nice vacations. But with the right plan, we can enjoy some of those things now and still have enough money to meet our goals in the long term. “Individuals can spend more time planning their dream vacation than they do thinking about their future and setting up a financial plan,” says Costron. “It is your financial planner’s role to ensure you dedicate some time to your life goals.”

of targets, helping them to choose the right vehicles and the right asset mix to achieve those targets. And these results show that good advice adds value.

Sticking to your long-term assetAssets mix is the best way to meet your investment goals Household Average Investable Sticking to your long-term asset mix is the best way to meet your investment goals Source: 2009 IfIc value of advIce report – from the IpSoS reId canadIan fInancIal monItor

Study

Over time and depending on market action, a balanced portfolio Over time and depending on market action, a balanced portfolio $can 2 5 0 , drift 0 0 0 away from the intended asset mix by a significant amount. can drift away from the intended asset mix by a significant amount. $214,587 $197,273

$ 2 0 0 , 100000% 100%

$164,542 p o rptofrotlfioola i oS SaeStS emti xm i x

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60%

$ 1 0 0 , 0 6000%

Portfolio becomes t o o c o n s e r vat i v e Portfolio becomes a n d m ay d e t r a c t t o o c o n s e r vat i v e from future a n d m ay d e t r a c t Performance from future 5 Performance 5

$138,358

40% 40%

$50,000

$27,104

20%

$11,227

20%

Portfolio becomes too risky Portfolio becomes 5 t o o r i s k y$29,119 5

$44,103

$0 0% 0%

Under $35,000 $35,000 to $54,999 ta r g e t b a l a n c e d p o r t f o l i o (example of a moderate inveStment portfolio) ta r g e t b a l a n c e d p o r t f o l i o (example of a moderate inveStment portfolio)

equity

$55,000 to $69,999 bull market H obUuslelH m o ladr kI n ec tome

$70,000 to $99,999

$100,000 or more bear market

bear market

fixed income

ehqouui ts=yeScotia fai x ddivni cs o m e h o l d Capital s w i t hBond neaUniverse r (100%); h o u s e Composite holds wi& t hMSCI n o World a d v i s(50%/50%). or Fixed income Equity = S&P/TSX Fixed income = Scotia Capital Bond Universe (100%); Equity = S&P/TSX Composite & MSCI World (50%/50%).

the Investors Group team will assist you SAVE At Investors Group, clients in your transition. receive more than advice about which financial products to purchase; they “We offer assistance with all of the receive a full slate of financial services. financial planning disciplines, such as The Investors Group team looks at each debt management,” says Costron, “and we help build strategies for retirement client individually to guide them through planning and other aspects of your life each phase of their lives. Whether you that are important to you.” are saving for a house, getting married, having a baby, managing a business, Your financial planner will also go over Insurance products and services distributed through I.G. Insurance Services Inc. Insurance license sponsored by Insurance products and services distributed through I.G.published Insuranceby Services Inc.Group Insurance license The Great-West Life Assurance Company. Written and Investors as a general source other aspects assponsored well,of inforsuch as cash dealing with a loss or just new to Canada, by The Great-West Life Assurance Company. Written and published by Investors Group as a general source of mation only. NotNot intended as aassolicitation to buy orI.G. sell specific investments, to tax,tax, legal or investment Insurance products and services distributed through Services Inc.or Insurance license sponsored information only. intended a solicitation to buy or Insurance sell specific investments, or provide to provide legal or by The Great-West Life Written and published Group aTrademarks, general source of advice. Seek advice onAssurance your specific circumstances from an Investors Group Consultant. including investment advice. Seek advice on Company. your specific circumstances frombyanInvestors Investors GroupasConsultant. information only. Not intended as a solicitation to buy or sell specific investments, or to provide tax, legal or Investors Group, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to itsInc. subsidiary corporations. Trademarks, including Investors Group, are owned by IGM Financial and licensed to its subsidiary corporainvestment advice. Seek advice on your specific circumstances from an Investors Group Consultant. © Investors GroupGroup Inc. 2014 MP1733 (01/2014) tions. © Investors Inc. 2014 MP1058 (01/2014) Trademarks, including Investors Group, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. © Investors Group Inc. 2014 MP1058 (01/2014)

management for your business. This refers to the process of managing cash efficiently in order to quickly put your money to work and produce income. The team at Investors Group will also assist you with portfolio management. It is important to understand your tolerance with changes in the market. This can mean different things to different people. Someone with more cash flow or a

OPPOSITE PAGE AND ABOVE Kingston Office

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COVER FEATURE

When financial advice is needed Kingston Office

although each of us is unique, we share many similar life events. many of us experience the your family’s they areour on their to retirement, and of aensuring longer investmentof period ahead of them of buying excitement getting married, first road home, and the birth child. Many of us financial care forgoals are you don’t have to be.” Your financial planner might be comfortable with some market achieved. One way to manage this risk is a loved one and experience the pain of losing someone close to us. We dream of working less, or of is someone you need to keep an open movement, others may not. The important through insurance products. “Insurance and as we go through life, many ofDon’t these for financial dialogue with. beevents afraid totrigger ask a lot the need partretirement, is that your financial planner assesses products are a very advice. important part of

of questions and always feel free to review your comfort and ensures your portfolio your financial plan because they help to In fact, have a dramatic difference in asset levelssupport between households withwill a help your financial plan. Costron recommends is giving youindustry piece of studies mind. Once youshown it,” she explains. “They a lot of monitoring; youadvisor, and yourregardless planner define your portfolio’s ideal structure, it’s financial advisor and households without a financial of total asset levels. out if something unexpected happens, should look over the plan regularly. essential to work with a qualified financial like ifcan youmake are disabled and off work for a these results show that whatever your age or life stage, the value of advice all the planner who will monitor and discuss period of time.” Insurance is like a safety Unplanned events what difference in helping you toyour achievePROTECT your goals and fulfil yourare dreams. necessary adjustments to stay within net that protects you and your financial require you to look at your financial plan comfort zone. plan from any twists or turns along life’s and make sure you are still on track, says path. The important thing to understand Costron. Managing the risk of disability or “It’s all about your comfort level,” says premature death is one of the key steps to Costron. “Nobody wants to be scared as is what might impact the progress

When Financial Advice is Needed – Triggering Events Over the Lifecycle source: the investment funds institute of canada

Living your retirement

critical illness dealing with tax changes

Planning for retirement Long-term disability NET WOrTh

Losing a loved one Planning for your estate receiving an inheritance

caring aring for a loved one

Going to post-secondary school Getting your first job Buying a car

tarting a business starting

Getting divorced

opening an account Getting married Losing a job having a baby

Buying your first home

e v e n t s t h at m o s t c a n a d i a n s t h i n k t h e y w o n ’ t e x p e r i e n c e

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potential change to the trajectory of net worth

Every financial plan needs to consider four key elements and the importance of allocating resources to each area

s h o r t-t e r m r e s e r v e

n Planning for emergencies and opportunities n Developing a financial reserve

income & asset Protections foR you aND youR DEPENDENTs IN casE of:

n Premature Death n Disability, Critical Illness n Long-term Care

Insurance Planning

Estate Planning Cash Management Investment Planning Education Planning

m o d e r at e -t e r m g o a l s

l o n g e r -t e r m g o a l s

n Educate my children n Purchase a home/cottage n Leisure activities

n Financial independence n Retire comfortably n Preserve my estate

Tax Planning

Retirement Planning

towards your goals. For example, let’s assume a man and woman that are both aged 40 with average health and are nonsmokers. There is a 10 per cent chance one of them will die before 65 whereas there is a 56 per cent chance one of them will become disabled before aged 65. It is important to be clear on what can derail your plan. Going forward, Costron offers a bit of professional advice. “The key to achieving your goals is to spend less than what you make, save a bit for yourself and keep open communication with your financial planner.” Insurance products and services distributed through I.G. Insurance services Inc. Insurance license sponsored by The Great-West Life Assurance Company. Trademarks, including Investors Group, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. © Investors Group Inc. 2008 MP1330 (10/2008)

A TEAM ENVIRONMENT Investors Group offers a team environment when working on their clients’ financial goals. “We are all independent planners, but the team is highly supportive and we work together and assist each other to provide the best possible service to our clients,” says Costron. Because they work so closely with their clients, they establish caring relationships with them, she adds. It’s an important part of the personalized service. Costron also adds that clients transferring to other communities countrywide can stay with their current advisor or their advisor will help them find someone in their new community that is an ideal fit for them. This is important for their many military clients transferring around the country.” SHARE Investors Group has a long history of community involvement, corporate funding and project initiation,

Regional office support staff

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COVER FEATURE

the value of advice In a study of over 1,000 Canadian households, Ipsos Reid findings show that advised households have substantially higher investable assets than non-advised households. For example, advised households with income levels between $35,000 and $55,000 had nearly 5 times the level of investable assets compared to non-advised households. Further, these observations are consistent across all income levels and age groups. Advisors provide a wide range of valuable services to clients, including the planning and maintenance of targets, helping them to choose the right vehicles and the right asset mix to achieve those targets. And these results show that good advice adds value. Perth & Brockville office

The Value ofAverage Advice Investable Assets Household

Source: 2009 IfIc value of advIce report – from the IpSoS reId canadIan fInancIal monItor Study $250,000

$214,587 $197,273

$200,000

$164,542 $150,000

$138,358 $125,348

$119,318 $100,000

$44,103

$50,000

$27,104

$29,119

$11,227 $0 Under $35,000

$35,000 to $54,999

$55,000 to $69,999

$70,000 to $99,999

$100,000 or more

HoUseHold Income

Household Average Investable Assets households with an advisor

households with no advisor

which has created a strong culture of interests in our community and love to caring within the company. The company show up at events with our community truly values its presence in Kingston and tent,” says Costron. “For us, it’s just our the surrounding area. Because of this, way of saying thanks to everyone for they enjoy taking part in many events and what they do every day to make Kingston causes, including Ride for Dad, United such a great place to live and work.” Way Kingston (sponsoring the NextGen A TEAM YOU CAN TRUST Pool Party), the Partners in Mission With their top-quality expertise, a caring Food Bank, Dress for Success Kingston, and diligent team and a strong presence Queen’s Varsity Football and more. in the Kingston area, Investors Group is Consultants are alsodistributed involved in I.G. many Insurance products and services through Insurance Services Inc. Insurance license sponsored by The Great-West Life Assurance Written and published by Investors as a general hereGroup to serve yousource withofainforpersonal touch. organizations such Company. as Scouts Canada, mation only. Not intended as a solicitation to buy or sell specific investments, or to provide tax, legal or investment By Consultant. trustingTrademarks, in yourincluding Investors Group Almost Home andspecific Habitat for Humanity, advice. Seek advice on your circumstances from an Investors Group Investors Group, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. financial planner, you are trusting in name “We(01/2014) have diverse © to Investors Group a Inc. few. 2014 MP1733

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someone who makes your best interest their top priority.

Investors Group Financial Services Inc. 100 1000 Gardiners Road, Kingston 613.384.8973 www.investorsgroupkingston.com NextGen Pool Party: facebook.com/nextgenkfla Dress for Success: facebook.com/pages/Dress-forSuccess-Kingston/271827102919685

How to Create Powerful Website Copy

thinking about their needs when they hit your site, so focus your copy on what they need and how you can help. LEAvE YOURsELf OUT Don’t talk about yourself outside of the About and Contact pages. Instead, keep your copy focused on the customer and avoid using words like I, we, or my.

Bruce White Agency Principal RedTrain 1044 Gardiners Road Kingston 613.507.5733 bruce@redtrain.ca www.redtrain.ca

ou have spent considerable time and money building your company. You have invested in branding, an effective logo, a clean website and optimized pages. But, to keep your prospects’ interest, your website needs strong, effective copy that attracts and keeps their attention in seconds, or they are gone. Here are some RedTrain insights for creating compelling copy: KNOW YOUR TARGET Before writing any copy, you must fully understand your target. What problem does your offering solve? Visitors are

fOCUs ON THE MOsT INTEREsTING fEATUREs Build your copy around the features that get people’s attention, but explain the benefits for the prospects. How do those benefits make their life better, or their problems smaller? GET TO THE POINT, ANd sTICK TO IT Give each page a purpose and stick to it. Break your copy up into short sentences and well-spaced paragraphs to make reading as easy as possible.

LET YOUR PERsONALITY sHINE THROUGH Prospects don’t need your life story, but they do want to know you are a real person and not a faceless corporation. Are you funny? Geeky? Energetic? Let your readers see that. TELL sTORIEs Do you have anecdotes about people’s results with your product? Satisfied customer testimonials? Stories of others’ success with your products can make for persuasive copy. fINIsH WITH A CALL TO ACTION You have your prospects’ attention, now what? Should they order your product? Request a quote? Provide an email? Whatever you want them to do, ask for it.

dRAfT YOUR COPY, THEN TIGHTEN IT UP After writing everything you want to say, return to it with a critical eye. Does it get to the point? Aim for punchy and precise, not expansive and flowery.

HAvE sOMEONE ELsE PROOfREAd YOUR COPY After focusing on your writing for a while, your mind automatically corrects typos or fills in missing words, and you literally don’t see them! It helps to have a “test reader” unfamiliar with the topic. If they are confused by your copy, mark those spots as areas to clarify.

fOCUs ON HOW UsING THE PROdUCT WILL MAKE YOUR CUsTOMER fEEL Use vocabulary that paints a picture not only of your product, but how it will feel to use it. Describe your offering in terms of what it does, not what it is.

It is easy to put a website out there, but it takes extra time and effort to compose compelling copy that keeps someone focused and interested in your topic. It is worth the investment, however, as great copy will increase your page views, time on page, and — most importantly — sales.

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Grow Your Business with the

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE By Ashliegh Gehl Photos Matthew English

eing a part of the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce means being a part of a dynamic community.

Advocacy, networking and education are three pillars the Chamber stands on. With more than 800 vibrant members contributing to various aspects of the organization, it’s teeming with talent. On Dec. 4, the Chamber will host an orientation for new and prospective members. It’s an opportunity to meet Chamber staff, board members and other members. Martin Sherris is the Chamber’s new chief executive officer. With more than 18 years of experience in Kingston’s waste management industry, he brings tremendous insight to the position. He also knows how valuable a membership can be. In 2008, the company Sherris worked for received the Chamber’s Large Business of the Year award. ABOVE Martin Sherris, Kingston Chamber of Commerce chief executive officer

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“Simply being a member doesn’t necessarily help your business grow — being an active member will,” says Sherris. “When I was involved in the Chamber as a member, I can count at least a dozen clients that became customers of mine that I otherwise would’ve never reached under my regular network. But I did reach them at Chamber events.” From first time business owners, to seasoned professionals, to tech-savvy millennials, the Chamber is dedicated to meeting the needs of its members. It provides a forum for discussion and helps businesses procure contacts in a similar trade. “The ability to network one-on-one, to share information, to share knowledge, is key,” says Sherris. That’s why the Chamber provides opportunities for engagement. Attending a networking event is a great way to meet new people — especially at a breakfast or a lunch event where a guest speaker

addresses important issues pertaining to the business community. There are also educational workshops. Social media is a hot topic. The Chamber has held many events on best practices on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Learning how to effectively use programs such as HootSuite, Instagram and Pinterest will intensify a business’s online identity, and bring customers closer to the culture of a business. As active as the Chamber is, a lot of work happens behind the scenes. “Our advocacy pillar is where we serve as the voice of business in the community of Kingston,” says Sherris. “There are a lot of businesses out there that don’t feel they have a voice. When there’s legislative change or municipal change or physical change to a business area, the Chamber champions the cause for business in the community.”

Formed in 1841, one of the oldest Chambers in Canada has helped its members build their client base, keep up to date on contemporary business practices, and strengthen the local economy. That’s why the Chamber is always seeking new members. On Dec. 4, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., the Chamber is hosting an open house. The first hour is an orientation for new and prospective members. The second hour is dedicated to a networking event. Those interested in attending the orientation must RSVP. Visit the Chamber’s website, kingstonchamber.ca, to register. Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce Innovation Park 945 Princess Street Kingston 613.548.4453 info@kingstonchamber.ca

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The Tradition Continues at

PETRIE FORD By Tori Stafford Photos by Stephen Wild

f you’ve been driving along Bath Road near Centennial Drive during the past year, perhaps you’ve noticed something in Kingston is changing. There, at the massive five-acre lot on the corner, design and construction crews have been working away, bringing changes to one of the city’s most well-recognized car dealerships; one that’s been in that very location for the past 45 years. Perhaps you’ve also noticed the renovation has brought with it another change. One familiar name has been replaced by another as the Edwards Ford name was retired just a few months ago, and the dealership was renamed Petrie Ford to reflect its ownership of the past 36 years. As the renovations near completion, bringing the Ford dealership into the 21st century, changing the name was a choice the entire management at the former Edwards Ford agreed on, says the owner Steve Petrie. “We decided we should really change the name, if we were ever going to do it,” Steve says. “With my daughter, Lisa, working with us here now for just over five years, it made sense to bring the family name to the dealership.” A KINGSTON LEGACY Having his daughter join the family business is not the first time a family member has worked alongside Steve. The Petrie family bought the dealership after Mr. Jake Edwards passed away in 1978. Until that point, the Edwards family had long since owned the dealership, which opened in 1949 on Princess Street in downtown Kingston. A well-established Ford dealership recognized by many in the city and throughout the area, the decision was made to keep the name when Petrie and his father, Howard, took ownership in 1978. Having worked at car dealerships since he was 15 years old, Steve has never looked back. As he says: “The car business is in my blood.” Indeed, the family involvement in the business grew as his brother Dave, who became a partner at the dealership when their father retired in 1989, joined Steve.

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For many years, the brothers ran the successful dealership, furthering the business’ reputation as a Kingston mainstay. This partnership ended after the tragic loss of Dave Petrie to cancer in January 2010, but his efforts and spirit made an impact on the family-owned and operated business that would not soon be forgotten. As the renovations give the dealership a facelift and allow for even more superior customer service, fittingly, the Petrie name that helped carry the dealership to this point is now front and centre, reflecting that legacy as it continues to grow. PETRIE FORD TODAY The facility at 1388 Bath Rd. is now all but unrecognizable, thanks to the

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massive renovations now underway for a year. The new showroom has already reopened, bringing with it a modern and comfortable customer service lounge for clients to enjoy while browsing the latest Ford offerings or having their vehicle serviced at one of the largest automotive service centres in Eastern Ontario. The new lounge is equipped with free Wi-Fi, two big screen TVs, and even offers a coffee bar for waiting clients. The biggest change Petrie Ford will undergo during this rebuild and redesign will be in the service centre. The facility will now boast a drive-thru service centre as a means of delivering more convenient and comfortable service, Steve explains. “This will allow our customers a more pleasant experience when they bring

their cars in for service,” he says. “They’ll be in an enclosed area, out of the elements, and they’ll be able to talk one-on-one, right from their car, with the service adviser who can help them with their service needs.” Additionally, Petrie Ford is implementing a loyalty program to give back to their clientele for every dollar spent at the dealership and service centre, explains marketing manager Patrick Nolan. “We want every customer to be happy, and we will do everything it takes to make sure every customer is comfortable and feels at home,” Patrick says. “We are always trying to find ways to make it easier for the customer to get their car serviced; easier physically, and also easier on their pocketbook.”

AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY While there may be a lot of changes taking place at Petrie Ford, some things never change. A leader in giving back to the local community through youth sports sponsorship, supporting nonprofit organizations, and spearheading charitable fundraisers, Petrie Ford remains committed to community involvement moving forward, Steve says. With his 36 years at the dealership surpassed by several of the 65 employees at Petrie Ford, continuing to support this community means continuing to support those who support the business, he says — and that refers to both staff and clientele. Thousands

of kids in and around Kingston have received sponsorship through the dealership, with either the Edwards or Petrie name on one of their jerseys, he explains. This includes his two daughters, Jennie and Lisa, the latter of whom works as the financial services manager at Petrie Ford. “It is so nice to see all the loyal Ford customers that come back to us for every deal and all of their service,” Lisa says, adding that working with those in the Kingston community and helping them make the right decisions is a rewarding job. “A vehicle is the second largest investment that a person is going to be making, it is how they will travel to and from work, and how they will travel with their family. It is nice to be a part of that.”

As for the huge financial commitment that comes with these renovations, it wasn’t a decision the elder Petrie had to spend a lot of time on. “That was an easy decision, considering Ford has been the No. 1 automotive brand in Canada for five straight years,” says Steve, noting the new Mustang and F150 are set to make their debut shortly. “If people see these products and come out and test drive them, they are going to be blown away.” Petrie Ford 1388 Bath Road Kingston 1.866.966.0681 613.546.2211 www.petrieford.com

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Specialization Matters in Group Benefits

in potential zero payout if there is a claim, are more common than an employer thinks. This could include outdated contracts, adding contractors as employees, or linking companies that are not affiliated, to simply name a few issues. These issues could leave an employer or contract holder on the hook for the claim, or an employee without the coverage they thought they had.

Pascale Mapleston Mapleston Benefits Consulting 807 Blackburn Mews, Kingston pmapleston@maplestonbenefits.com www.maplestonbenefits.com

IMPROPER PLAN SETUP: Not including all employees on the plan, not setting up class structures properly, or not having the proper documentation to show the declined opportunity to participate in a plan could also leave an employer on the hook for a potential claim.

OUTDATED PLAN DESIGNS THAT ARE NO LONGER RELEVANT: This can include reimbursement drug plans, annual dollar deductibles, non pro-active cost management or outdated contracts. Using a specialist can help to keep your plan relevant, proactive and your contract tight to protect you from potential liability. Specialists are up-to-date on the new trends in the marketplace. If you hear the term “shoebox effect”, run. It’s time to get out of the 80s; this is the opposite of how claims adjudication actually works.

INVALID CONTRACTS: Contracts that are incorrectly set up, resulting

OVER-PRICED RENEWALS AND RATES: The inability to properly negotiate a renewal because of lack of knowledge, underwriting skills and specialization is very common. In fact, most contracts I review are not properly negotiated.

hen I review group benefit contracts and packages with new and prospective clients, the following issues always come up. Using a specialist is critically important for the employer’s existing plan in terms of their bottom line, but more importantly, to protect the company from potential risk and liability.

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LACK OF PRO-ACTIVE COST CONTAINMENT FEATURES. Focus should be on future cost containment features versus cutting the benefit package to achieve pricing results. MINING CLAIMS PATTERNS: This valuable skill is not seen by nonspecialists when they manage benefit packages. By analyzing claiming patterns, specialists can focus on trends within a company and help to achieve better health results. LACK OF FLEXIBILITY: Not using health care spending accounts and other tools to address the generational challenges and the desire for choice and flexibility within a workforce. This helps control costs and keeps multigenerational employees happy. These are just a few of the risks employers face when they use a non-specialized agent or broker to manage their employee benefits plan. Bring in a specialist. Your agent or broker is not doing you a favour by dabbling in a type of business in which he or she is not an expert; this can leave you on the hook for increased premiums or for potential liability in the case of unpaid claims. There are many local benefit specialist options in Kingston and surrounding area, and their expertise will save you bottom line dollars today and protect you from potential risk tomorrow. Ask the right questions when choosing your group benefit broker and ask for local references.

THE LAMBORGHINI

The Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Expensive Vehicle

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By Trina Annand

ver since the invention of motorized vehicles, the focus has been on making them faster and better. Exploring the limits of technological advancement has been a special focus for the teams at Lamborghini. Since its launch in Bologna, Italy in 1963, Lamborghini has established a name for itself as the ultimate in luxury and speed. The newest line features the 2014 Veneno. It’s a startling achievement that already has a loyal fan base and a waiting list that would make any car lover cry. The 2014 Veneno is a 12-cylinder masterpiece. With a 750-horsepower

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engine, it would give the bat mobile a run for its money. This beauty can go from zero to 60 in a mere 2.8 seconds, with a maximum speed of 355.7 km per hour. It does come at a cost, though, ringing in with a price tag of $4.5 million. A drop in the bucket for true car connoisseurs, the wait list is courtesy of a limited yearly release of nine cars. This allows engineers and mechanics to focus on every inch of this dream machine, ensuring the highest possible quality. When the car was created in 2013, there were a mere three cars released for sale. All were sold before they were even produced.

Interior finishes for the Veneno feature race seating, created with the finest leathers and carbon-fibre panels that mimic the sleek exterior look of the vehicle. With carbon-fibre components, the Veneno has achieved a superior rank among lightweight vehicles. Creating a car that is as beautiful under the hood as it is on the outside is the company’s guiding principle. The Veneno was a jewel in Lamborghini’s crown for their 50th anniversary. Their tagline for the special event, “A century of innovation in half the time,” is a statement that rings true when you look at the company’s success.

Tire Storage Tips

Quebec has seen an 18 per cent decrease in winter accidents since mandating winter tires in 2008. Their law is to have snow tires on before Dec.15 and off after March 15.

Jeremy Tinline

owner

Vic’s Automotive 654 McKay St., Kingston 613.389.6585 vicsonmckay@aol.com

A growing trend (and a wise decision) is to have tires and rims for each season. This is less expensive in the long run, easier on the tires and keeps your costly alloy wheels away from the elements. With tire/wheel combos, there is added weight when you have to move them around, but there are solutions. Winter tires fresh out of storage should be inspected for cracking (dry rot), proper balance, correct pressure, and if equipped, the tire pressure sensor checked and “learned” to the vehicle. Hubs on the rims need to be free from corrosion and torqued to manufacturers specs.

Important Storage Tips

y now, the majority of people have already put their winter tires on. If not, there is still time before the nasty conditions of winter driving are upon us. Don’t have them? Ask your service provider what they can do for you and if they make sense for your driving requirements. Winter tires are a great safety feature. With proper maintenance and storage, they can provide years of trouble-free service.

- Clean and dry the tires and rims. Brake dust and road grime deteriorate rubber quickly. Clean with soap and water and air-dry before storing. - Put the tires in a clean, dark bag and seal up as best as possible. This keeps UV light and outside contamination out and the gasses from the tires in. Tires would be best stored vacuumed sealed, but that is not realistic. - Keep in a dark, cool shed or basement away from sunlight or excessive heat.

Keep the tires away from furnaces, sump pumps or any electric motors. Electric motors generate ozone gas, which breaks down the rubber. - Tires not on rims should not be hung in one spot by the bead — such as on a wall hanger — nor should they be stacked one on top of the other to the point they start to crush the one below. If they are on rims, they are best stored at pressure in their normal position, tread down. White walls or raised white letters need to be facing each other, or separated to prevent the black from transferring. The disadvantage with the tire and rim combo is the added weight. Ideally, your service provider will offer a storage solution for you. The best option is to have the shop store them for a nominal fee. We clean, dry, measure, document and store them in a secure insured storage shed. Another solution is to arrange pickup and delivery to your home. There are even options to have a company called “Tire Hotel” pick your tires up and take them to a storage facility out of town. Ask your service provider for options, express your concerns and your budget. Together, we can find a storage solution that works best for you. Drive safe and have a great winter!

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Taylor AutoMall’s Third Annual

“Drive For a Cause” By Ashliegh Gehl Photos Stephen Wild

aking a test drive may seem like business as usual for a car dealership, but at Taylor AutoMall, it means raising funds and awareness about a disease that has affected the lives of many Kingstonians. Last October, during breast cancer awareness month, General Motors Canada partnered with the dealership for their third annual Drive For a Cause campaign. It’s a program that challenges dealerships to raise money for a local charity.

Every time a customer came in to Drive a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac, the dealership donated $25 to Breast Cancer Action Kingston, an organization dedicated to advocacy and research. It was Re Haslett, a sales consultant at the dealership, who brought the organization to owner Jason Taylor’s attention. “If you come in and get behind one of the new vehicles, not only are you learning about a new product, you’re making a small donation to a local charity,” says

Melodie Quinn, Internet marketing manager for Taylor AutoMall. “We pay for the gas as well. So it’s a win-win situation for the customer.” This year the fundraiser hit close to home. Last July that staff at the dealership lost one of its own to cancer. Lee Paradise was an integral part of the Taylor AutoMall team and his wife, Marlene, was critical to the success of this year’s event. “It’s a lot of work and it takes a committee of people,” says Quinn. “We’re getting

ABOVE Sue Davis, president – BCAK; Bev Martin, office co-ordinator; Marilyn Taylor; Jason Taylor; Emily Fennell; Re Haslett; Melodie Quinn; Linda Reid; Dianne Johnston; Faye Irving

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people driving the new cars, which is fantastic. It raises awareness about our products, but most importantly, it raises awareness about cancer. Everything is pink in the dealership — it’s fun!” Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among Canadian women. Roughly one in nine will develop it during their lifetime and one in 30 will die from it. BCAK is an invaluable organization and an essential resource. From dragon boat races to an annual retreat to educational evenings, BCAK is rooted in the community. “There’s a lot of people here in our dealership who have been affected by breast cancer or cancer itself,” says Quinn. “Everyone in this building, in some form, has been touched by it.” At the end of the month, with the BCAK team on hand, Taylor AutoMall hosted an event that brought people together to talk about breast cancer. In Harmony Salon & Spa was onsite to help guests relax, offering manicures, pedicures and massages. More than 150 gifts were donated to the silent auction. These donations included bottles of wine, floral arrangements, gift certificates and an Indigo bag filled with books, stationary and a scarf. For music lovers, Bryan Adams and Brad Paisley concert tickets were up for grabs. The latter included a special meet-andgreet with the charming country singer. “Kingston’s generosity is overwhelming,” says Quinn. “We raised over $10,000 this year. All of which will go to BCAK. We’re extremely thankful for the support we received. We can’t wait for next year!” Taylor AutoMall 2440 Princess Street Kingston 613.549.1311 taylorautomall.com

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Classic Automotive Repair Giving Classic Imports a New Lease on Life By Tori Staffordâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;Photos Stephen Wild

hose who own and maintain vintage vehicles know they are only as good as the work that goes into them. Thus, these drivers go the extra mile to ensure their cars are serviced and maintained by a knowledgeable and trustworthy mechanic, which is often easier said than done. For those who own and love European classic vehicles, the challenge to find a mechanic that will

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even agree to work on your car â&#x20AC;&#x201D; let alone do that work properly â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is one of the biggest downsides. That is, until they meet Steve Hayes. Hayes, who has owned and operated Classic Automotive Repair since 2009, says working on European and American vehicles, specifically British classic cars, comes naturally to him. With more than 23 years of experience servicing vehicles, working on those that hail from Great

Britain is something Hayes is not only incredibly well-versed in, it’s something he prides himself on. One needs only to look to history to find the reason Hayes has found an everincreasing demand for the services he provides at Classic Automotive Repair. Considering about 500,000 MGB models alone were shipped to North America by the British manufacturer in the mid-to-late 60s, the number of British and European vehicles on the continent is vast. The aforementioned passion shared by those who restore, maintain and sometimes show British classic cars means those who can service these vehicles are in high demand — a need even Hayes finds hard to fathom at times. “[The demand] is really massive!” Hayes says. Those avid in classic European car shows and education need only look at the workmanship provided at Classic Automotive Repair to recognize the skills Hayes possesses are unlike those of most mechanics in the country. But, as the humble Hayes expresses, it is all because it’s what he knows best. “Basically, we are kind of a one-stop shop. We can do anything from an oil change to a full restoration; we can do interiors and upholstery, paint work, part-sourcing...we do it all,” Hayes says. With a Rolodex of part suppliers from the UK that can have parts to Hayes within a few days, Classic Automotive Repair is able to service, upgrade and rebuild classic European cars with the right parts, and in a timely manner. “I love it. It is nice to come to work and enjoy what I am doing,” Hayes says. “I like to share my knowledge of what can be done to improve a car with my customers. I always say the car is the customer’s, so I work for them. They bring it in, I fix it and make it right for what they want and need, and they take it away happy. To me, that’s my job.” LEFT Steve Hayes, owner

Classic Automotive Repair Glenvale Industrial Park Building 2, Unit 2 2800 Hwy. 38, Kingston 613.583.4311 classicautomotiverepair@gmail.com www.classicautomotiverepair.ca

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