Fine Lifestyles Regina Volume 7 Issue 3 2015

FineLifestyles Lifestyles VOLUME 7 ISSUE 3

REGINA

OXFORD LEARNING, TIDY TIME SAVER & SUNCOAST ENCLOSURES 2015

THREE BUSINESSES BRINGING THEIR BEST

SHERWOOD invites you to stop in to see our

BRAND NEW!

Drive-Thru Tunnel Wash attached to a 10 bay State of the Art Wand Wash at our Prince of Wales Gas Bar/C-Store (Regina East)

Your Sherwood Co-op membership offers you a lifetime of rewards, including the promise of high-quality products and services at competitive prices. We also offer the potential for annual cash back and an equity account that grows over time, as well as the opportunity to get involved as a member-owner. Our profits are your profits.

$3 million in cash has already been given back to Sherwood Co-op members in 2015.

WIND, FIRE, WATER, HAIL. WE HAVE YOU COVERED.

REGINA 306-721-0240 WEYBURN 306-842-3600 YORKTON 306-736-3600

first word

By Fine Lifestyles editor SHERRY LEE

W

elcome to our annual Best of the Best special edition!

This time, three local businesses — Oxford Learning, Suncoast Enclosures and Tidy Time Saver — have stepped forward to share the front cover and also be a part of the Best of the Best feature. Along with detailed information about their businesses, they explain what it means to be the best in their respective industries. They represent the high quality of our local business community that serves customers in Regina and beyond.

As always, we profile local events and happenings. Saskatchewan Fashion Week 2015 was another huge success, putting the spotlight on the many talented fashion designers we have in our province. Globe Theatre recently presented the magical Mary Poppins — with great imagination and creativity — and left audiences pining for more!

Fine Lifestyles’ columnist, Scott McGillivray, educates us on the curb appeal of windows and doors, and Ken Beattie reveals his experiences cruising the Chilean Fiords. We also bring you information about laser eye surgery, yoga, CAFE Canada and the 2015 Detroit Auto Show.

And let’s not forget those scrumptious summer drinks we still have plenty of time to enjoy on the deck. Keep this issue handy for many hours of reading pleasure, list making and idea generating. The businesses inside have solutions for you; they want to hear from you and see you come through their doors.

FineLifestyles REGINA

www.finelifestyles.ca Volume 7, Issue 3 2015 Associate Editor Sherry Lee sherryl@finelifestyles.ca Art Direction Lisa Redden, Senior Design Amber Moon, Candace Haiko, DeAnne Bell, Ghislaine Moffitt, Shanna Joudrey Staff Writers Courtney Tait, Henny Buffinga, Melanie Furlong, Tobie Hainstock, Tori Stafford, Tonya Lambert, Trina Annand Cover Photography Calvin Fehr Photography Alicia Leclercq, Calvin Fehr, D. Beattie, DeAnne Bell, Globe Theatre, Heather Fritz, John Morrell, Lisa Landrie, Michael Lasko, Peter Scoular, SharpShooter Photography, Wes Tollefson Contributing Writers Brook Thalgott, Ken Beattie, Scott McGillivray Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca finemags

@finemags

See you in the fall!

Sherry

ADVERTISING & SALES MANAGER

Sandy Zielinski sandyz@finelifestyles.ca 306.563.7815 ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Fine Lifestyles Regina is published by the Group of Fine Magazines Ltd. Fine Magazines is independently owned. Opinions expressed in 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.

Alison Brochu Brittinee Wiley Brooke Watson Randy Glascock alisonb@finelifestyles.ca brittineew@finelifestyles.ca brooke@finelifestyles.ca randyg@finelifestyles.ca 204.558.0447 306.531.9083 306.551.4789 306.526.4957

4

FineLifestyles

REGINA

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

Canada Post Publication Agreement #41818060. Return undeliverables to 3440 Balsam Grove, Regina, Sk, S4V 1H1

Ú New patients welcome Ú Emergency services available Ú General Dentistry including: • Orthodontics (not by a specialist) and • Prosthodontics (not by a specialist)

DR. GREG KONOTOPETZ

London Drugs

Wal Mart

Super Store

Quance St.

call 306.584.2833 3291 Quance Street East, Regina |

Prince of Wales Dr.

Victoria Ave.

Coleman St.

New patients welcome

DR. KIM NEUDORF

N

Our Office

TOLL FREE:

866.584.2833 | www.signaturesmiles.ca |

|

|

2015

48

26 46

CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS STYLE ..................................................... 8 HEALTH & WELLNESS .......................12 ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ...16 SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL.... 22 HOUSE & HOME .................................26 BUSINESS ............................................36 WHEELS ...............................................45

FEATURES Go Explore More ......................................24 Scott McGillivray: Curb Appeal of Windows & Doors....................................26 COVER: Oxford Learning, Tidy Time Saver & Suncoast Enclosures Bring Their Best ................46 Best of the Best Special Feature.......48

6

FineLifestyles

REGINA

SAVE UP TO 20%

On your purchase of Stressless® Sofas In select colours*

THE INNOVATORS OF COMFORT™

Stressless® living—it’s all about comfort There are many reasons why Stressless® is the most comfortable line of furniture in existence. We could tell you how each recliner, sofa and home theatre piece is innovatively designed, in Norway, from the inside out for unmatched comfort. Or that our recliners come in multiple sizes to fit all body types. We could also mention Stressless® is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association. But none of those things adequately conveys what the Stressless® line is capable of. There is only one way to understand the feeling of total and utter luxury. You have to sit in one.

Furniture

“Come Discover The Difference”

www.CastleFurniture.ca 1601 – 6th Avenue Regina | 306.525.5428

FL

STYLE

SaSkatchewan FaShion week 2015 Where Nature aNd FashioN Merge

By Tobie Hainstock Photos Wes Tollefson

8

FineLifestyles

REGINA

STYLE

F

rom May 7 to 9, Regina was abuzz with the crème de la crème of Saskatchewan’s fashion industry.

With hot fashions from some of Saskatchewan’s most talented designers, this year’s Saskatchewan Fashion Week (SFW) featured a wide spectrum of crowdpleasing collections, including ladies’ intimate wear and more men’s wear.

SFW was founded in 2012 by Candyce Fiessel, Chelsea O’Connell and Chris Pritchard. “Saskatchewan Fashion Week was created to bring people together and create a collaborative and inclusive movement to grow and enhance Saskatchewan’s fashion and creative design industries,” comments Pritchard.

As a non-profit organization, SFW depends on the hard work and dedication of its many valued volunteers to ensure a successful event.

A Theme of Nature and Art

This year’s event again took place at the Canada Saskatchewan Production Studio (Sound Stage) located at 1831 College Avenue. The venue’s breathtaking ambience was aided by a décor theme based on the concept of nature giving birth to art and fashion. Floral gowns were created by Wascana Flower Shoppe designer Riley Korma, who pitched the idea to event co-founder, Pritchard. “We decided to incorporate the idea of floral and fashion and art all working together,” notes Korma.

“There was a kind of rebirth taking place every time the dresses were seen because new flowers had to be added,” Korma comments. With each refresh, the dresses became more vibrant and earthy.

What a Fabulous Host!

The dynamic and talented Ryan Massel was thrilled to be this year’s host. Commonly known of as Mr. Fabulous, Massel is a popular television personality as well as creator of immrfabulous.com. Raised in Saskatchewan, Massel had attended all previous SFW shows. When he first heard of SFW in 2012, he was excited to see what his home province had to offer the fashion industry: “I came, I saw and I loved it!” Massel did a stellar job with a polished, poised, professional and downright hilarious delivery. “It was a wonderful experience! I truly loved the audience; they were very responsive and interactive.”

SFW host, Ryan Massel - Mr. Fabulous.

STYLE

FineLifestyles

REGINA

9

Year of the Ram Wins Emerging Designer Award

Since 2013, SFW, in conjunction with Dr. Roberta MacKay and Mr. Elmer Brenner, has presented the Fashion Forward Emerging Designer Award. The award was created to assist an emerging designer in developing their business plan and marketing strategy, professional development and enhancing their portfolio. This $2,000 honorarium was presented after the runway program on Saturday evening to Christina McFadden of Year of the Ram. Originally from Brandon, Manitoba, McFadden studied her craft in Vancouver. She was offered a position with Naked Princess Luxury Lingerie where she learned from the best in the industry about designing intimate apparel. For the past two years, McFadden has been in Regina developing her line. “I was so completely surprised! I did all that I could to win, but there were so many other talented designers that I really didn’t think I would,” she expresses.

10

FineLifestyles

REGINA

McFadden says her upcoming fall/winter collection will be sensual, comfortable and affordable. “It will be lingerie everyone will enjoy wearing.” As the winner of this award, Year of the Ram will be featured at Dean Renwick’s Moustache Bash in late fall 2015.

Show-Stopping and Eye-Popping Saskatchewan’s established designers once again outdid themselves at SFW. Dean Renwick Design Studio gave a show-stopping presentation that brought the house to its feet and dazzled the audience with a dress painted onstage by street artist Jarus (David Loran).

“This year, my collection was all about collaboration, creativity and couples,” Renwick explains. He collaborated with painter, Jarus, and fibre artist, Susie Gourley, of Knit Natural. By working together and letting everyone do what they do best, the level of creativity for this collection soared, admits Renwick.

STYLE

After much pleading from his followers, Renwick created some incredible men’s fashions. “It was time for men,” he comments. “It started out with pants and then I developed the shawl collared tuxedo jackets that gave the whole thing a 1960s feel.” This encouraged him to work with outfitting couples. Renwick tells ladies to watch for big gowns coming back this fall.

Edgier than last year with a hint more sass and sophistication, this year’s SFW was three days of fashion adventure that left everyone on the edge of their seats.

Watch for more great fashion coming out of Saskatchewan and plan to attend SFW in 2016. saskatchewanfashionweek.com yearoftheram.ca deanrenwickdesignstudio.com immrfabulous.com kamikipiks.ca

BURBERRY

COMBINING SENSE AND STYLE

FOR 160 YEARS

By Tonya Lambert

B

urberry of London has been combining commonsense, durable materials and design with exceptional style for discerning clients for more than 160 years.

This British luxury fashion house has long been a leader in the industry, introducing innovative materials and original designs to meet the changing needs of consumers.

Founded by 21-year-old dressmaker Thomas Burberry in Basingstoke in 1856, the company expanded as more and more people were introduced to the exceptionally tailored, fashionable couture. By 1891, the firm’s first London location had opened, and in 1909 a Paris branch was opened as well. Today, Burberry has more than 500 stores in 50 countries and their products can also be found on the shelves of exclusive boutiques worldwide.

The company’s philosophy is proudly displayed on their Equestrian Knight logo: Prorsum. The Latin word for ‘forward,’ prorsum neatly encapsulates the company’s successful approach to fashion and business. Over the years, Burberry has garnered a reputation for pushing boundaries and has been the outerwear of choice for pioneering aviators, explorers and adventurers of all sorts.

Burberry Prorsum is the name applied to the company’s most fashion-forward collection. The luxury firm also has two other collections. Burberry London is a more professional, tailored look, perfect for the office, while Burberry Brit is their casual clothing line, ideal for relaxing on the weekends.

All three current collections are full of contrasting textures and beautiful, rich jewel tones. The warmth of the blackcurrant, antique green and black colours is the consummate choice for chilly winter weather.

In Canada, Burberry has stores in seven cities — Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City. In addition, the prestigious Burberry lines of clothing, fashion accessories, fragrances, sunglasses and cosmetics are found in leading luxury stores across the country.

STYLE

FineLifestyles

REGINA

11

FL

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The

La s e r Lowdown Eye Mapping, Monovision, and How LASIK Works

By Courtney Tait

For those who rely on corrective lenses, the thought of waking each day and seeing their surroundings clearly without the aid of glasses or contacts feels like a dream. But with the increasing popularity of laser eye surgery, thousands of Canadians are making their dream of perfect vision a reality.

12

FineLifestyles

REGINA

HEALTH & WELLNESS

With LASIK, the surgeon cuts a flap in the cornea before reshaping it with a laser. The flap is put back after, making the healing process faster. Healing time: typically a few days.

LASEK is a combination of PRK and LASIK. The cornea’s outer layer is cut, loosened with alcohol and lifted. As with PRK, a laser beam then vaporizes tissue below the cornea’s surface. The outer layer is put back in place following the laser portion of the procedure. Healing time: about two weeks.

Mapping your eye: CusToM WavefronT LasiK The most cutting-edge advance in LASIK surgery is the use of wavefront technology to create a map of the eye, showing how light waves travel through it. This three-dimensional measurement enables more precise vision correction than what is possible with traditional LASIK surgery. The map’s information guides the laser in reshaping the eye’s cornea, custom-correcting irregularities.

Factors such as the thickness of the cornea can affect whether or not you are a candidate for Wavefront LASIK. As with all laser eye procedures, your surgeon can determine the best option for you.

BenefiTs, risKs and Tips Many people feel their lives are greatly improved following laser eye surgery, minimizing or completely eliminating the need for contact lenses or prescription glasses.

F

irst introduced in the early ’90s, laser eye surgery can correct vision problems caused by refractive errors. These include hyperopia (far-sightedness), myopia (near-sightedness) and astigmatism (when objects at any distance appear distorted). More recently it has also been used to aid presbyopia (when near vision becomes blurred while looking at objects close-up).

Types of Laser eye surgery So what are the current options?

Refractive errors are corrected by permanently altering the shape of the

cornea, which is most often done with an Excimer laser. Tissue is vaporized with a beam of ultraviolet light produced by the laser. There are two main types of Excimer laser surgery done in Canada: LASIK (Laser assisted in situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (PhotoRefractive Keractectomy). LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) is a more recent laser procedure.

So what are the risks? With the PRK procedure, pain can be present for the first few days, along with hazy vision. In some cases, regression occurs, causing the eye to revert to its former refractive error. While LASIK has less postoperative pain, there is a greater risk of complications. Halos and glare may occur with night vision, impacting the patient’s ability to drive at night. The procedure may temporarily result in dry eyes, which can also affect vision.

With PRK, the surgeon gently removes the cornea’s outer layer, then reshapes the cornea with a laser beam (guided by a computer) that vaporizes tissue beneath the cornea’s surface. Healing time: about one week.

With both PRK and LASIK a corneal infection is possible, resulting in some vision loss. As with any medical procedure, learning more about laser eye surgery will help you decide if it’s the best decision for you.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

FineLifestyles

REGINA

13

ADVICE

FROM YOUR OPTOMETRIST Vision is the Key to Learning

This is the level typically tested during the routine eye exam. This level includes the vision/prescription test, basic eye muscle testing and comprehensive eye health examination.

Dr. Myles Bokinac

owner / optometrist Advance Eye Care Center 500-4010 Pasqua Street, Regina 306.586.7036 www.advanceeyecarecenter.ca

I

s your child struggling in school?

Maybe we can help. One in six children has a vision related problem that can affect their learning. Many of these problems affect the upper levels of the visual system and are not routinely tested for during a routine eye exam. I have a special interest in developmental optometry, which is the assessment of the upper levels of the visual system. I offer Developmental Vision Assessments (DVA) to test for any visual conditions in these areas that may affect learning.

The visual system can be pictured as a pyramid with three layers. The bottom layer is called Visual Integrity and is the foundation of the visual system.

14

FineLifestyles

REGINA

The second level of the visual system is called Visual Efficiency. This level involves the three eye muscle systems: eye focusing, convergence and eyetracking. The DVA tests the eye focusing muscles to ensure they have adequate strength, ability to change focus from near to far and the stamina to sustain near focus for an adequate period of time. We test the same areas for the convergence muscles. For eye-tracking muscles, we test the speed and accuracy of the smooth-tracking skills (used when reading across a line of print) and the accuracy and efficiency of the saccadic tracking (moving from the end of one line of print to the beginning of the next).

Deficiencies in any of these areas can result in learning issues. For example, poor smooth eye-tracking is a common cause of children falling behind in reading. Vision therapy has a high success rate in treating most eye muscle conditions. Like other muscles in the body, the eye muscles respond to proper exercise and will gain strength, speed and coordination. In visionrelated learning eye muscle conditions, successful therapy can help improve the child’s school performance.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The top level of the visual system is called Visual Information Processing.

This is visual perception; the brain must give meaning to what the eyes have seen. There are many areas of visual processing including visual memory, visual sequential processing, visual processing speed and visual spatial skills.

Any deficiency in visual processing can result in significant struggles with learning. For example, visual sequential processing is the ability to see something presented in a sequence and recall it back in the correct order.

Now think about learning and where a child would use this skill. The answer is everywhere: spelling, math, reading a sentence or paragraph and recalling what it said, and copying from the board, to name a few. These are crucial areas to learning and a deficiency can result in a significant struggle with learning. Therapy for visual processing skills also has quite a high success rate at improving the deficient area and thus improving the child’s performance at school.

The ideal time for an DVA is from Kindergarten to Grade 3. The earlier we intervene, the sooner the child can get on track at school. These assessments can be done on anyone ages four and up who is struggling with learning. To book an DVA, call 306.586.7036 or visit us at advanceeyecarecenter.com.

Relax & Rejuvenate with

RESTORATIVE YOGA

By Courtney Tait

P

icture this: you lay face up on a yoga mat in a dimly lit room, while your legs rest against the wall. A sandbag is placed gently over your feet to stabilize the pose. You breathe slowly in and slowly out as tension releases throughout your entire body. Growing more relaxed with every breath, you lose track of the minutes passing. Eventually, the sound of your teacher’s voice guides you into the next pose. You aren’t here to power through a vigorous sequence of postures or fine tune your alignment, you’re here to rest and restore.

Derived from Iyengar Yoga — a style that uses props to perfect postures — modern Restorative Yoga integrates props to help deepen stretches and make poses more comfortable. Pillows, bolsters, blocks, sandbags and blankets may be used to support you in the postures, eliminating unnecessary strain and thus enabling you to stay in the pose for several minutes. This allows

your muscles to stretch gradually, when they are naturally ready.

The result is a deep opening of the body and a calming of the mind.

As with other forms of yoga, Restorative offers a myriad of physical and mental benefits. When the body is deeply relaxed, blood pressure is reduced and the central nervous system is at rest. Following a Restorative Yoga class, you will likely feel more focused and attentive. If you have sleep challenges, a this yoga practice will help, as the relaxation you experience makes it easier to transition to sleep, even several hours later.

If you’re accustomed to forms of yoga or other exercises that are fast-paced or physically demanding, a Restorative class will likely feel radically different. Ease into each pose with an open mind, and if the pace feels too slow, remind yourself to simply breathe and let go.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

FineLifestyles

REGINA

15

FL

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Globe Theatre Presents

MARY POPPINS — With Imagination!

By Sherry Lee

16

FineLifestyles

REGINA

Photos courtesy Globe Theatre and SharpShooter Photography

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

W

ho wouldn’t want to hang out with the iconic Mary Poppins? Right from the start of this fastpaced dazzling Globe Theatre production, Mary brings her confident flair, optimistic attitude and no-nonsense style that leaves you smiling and uplifted about the endless possibilities of life.

As in the legendary 1964 Disney movie, Mary Poppins valiantly enters the lives of the fractured Banks family and literally turns things upside down — for the better. The Banks’ children soon learn amazing things happen when Mary is around, but that she is also a rigid taskmaster who accepts nothing but the best. Why, she can even evict another nasty nanny with angelic flair! With a little help from above, the entire family ends up discovering — through Mary and her world of unique characters, including a special chimney sweep — what is truly important in life.

This production directed by Globe Theatre’s Artistic Director and CEO, Ruth Smillie, can only be described as stunning. The set design was imaginative (fitting a large scale production onto a boxing ring size floor with a 360-degree viewing audience being no small feat), the cast diverse and talented, the costumes brilliant, the dancing spellbinding and the music heartwarming and nostalgic. What a treat to sing quietly along to such favourites as A Spoonful of Sugar Helps the Medicine Go Down — especially with the cadre of gifted voices in this cast.

A few hours in Mary Poppins’ magical wonderland of possibility touches the place inside us where hope resides — a reminder that anything can happen if you let it! Globe’s rendition of this timeless show will remain a special memory.

ABOVE TOP ROW L-R Jenny McKillop, Stephen Gartner, Jenni Burke, Greg Campbell, Stephanie Roth, Clint Butler, Jaire Olmos, Malia Becker, Rachel Lawrence, Michelle Fisk, Alfonso Banzon, Kaitlyn Semple FRONT ROW L-R Russell Roberts, Jayne Lewis, Jason Hardwick

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

FineLifestyles

REGINA

17

AUGUST 7 – 9 Regina Folk Festival Victoria Park, Regina AUGUST 18 Brit Floyd Conexus Arts Centre, Regina

events REGINA

AUG - OCT 2015

SEPTEMBER 4 – 5 Regina Dragon Boat Festival Wascana Park, Regina SEPTEMBER 9 Randy Bachman Casino Regina SEPTEMBER 11 Juke Box Mania Turvey Centre SEPTEMBER 12 – 13 Queen City Marathon Conexus Arts Centre SEPT 16 – OCT 4 All Shook Up Globe Theatre SEPTEMBER 19 Simon Plays Mozart: Mosaic Masterworks Conexus Arts Centre SEPTEMBER 21 The Tenors Mosaic Place, Moose Jaw SEPTEMBER 24 The Nylons Casino Regina SEPTEMBER 26 – 27 Curl Sask High Performance Camp Moose Jaw Ford Curling Centre, Moose Jaw SEPTEMBER 30 Ron Sexsmith The Exchange

18

FineLifestyles

REGINA

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

BEER BOR N I N W I D E OPE N S PAC E S « Craft brewed beer made locally in Swift Current « Available in cans (at participating SLGA liquor stores) and many restaurants and pubs « Flagship and seasonal beers offered in our taproom for growler fills in Swift Current

BRONZE

MEDAL / MEDAILLE

MILK STOUT was recently awarded a Bronze at the Canadian Brewing Awards for 2015

2015

We’re always brewing something new, so stop by to try out all our beers!

OPENED IN OCTOBER 2014

295 Alexander Dr. Swift Current « 306.773.4404 « www.blackbridgebrewery.ca

Pile o’ Bones BBQ CHAMPIONSHIP

By Tobie Hainstock Photos Courtesy Pile o’ Bones

T

here was a certain something in the air throughout Regina’s downtown from June 12 to 14. The first ever Pile o’ Bones BBQ Championship cooked up delicious barbeque fare in a free event for all ages to enjoy.

“I’ve been looking at doing something like this for years,” states organizer Rob Reinhardt of Prairie Smoke and Spice.

Reinhardt has competed on the barbecue circuit for about six years, travelling to some of the largest competitions in North America — including locations throughout Western Canada, Tennessee, Missouri and beyond.

Planning for this year’s event started in February when Reinhardt teamed up with Rawk Entertainment. “We had discussed working with Rob previously and when this opportunity came about, we jumped on it. He is a barbeque legend

20

FineLifestyles

REGINA

after all!” expresses Mike Ash of Rawk.

Reinhardt’s experience and competition contacts combined with Rawk’s ability to line up great live entertainment resulted in a highly successful event attended by approximately 3,000 visitors each day.

to year to make it that much better. That is what we strive to do: outdo ourselves from the previous year!”

In all, 22 competitors entered the championship. “We received entries from all over North America, the furthest being from Oklahoma,” comments Reinhardt.

Grand Champion went to Diva Q (host of hit TV show BBQ Crawl) and Reserve Champion was awarded to Dr. Nordy’s BBQ of Colorado. Categories included Best Overall, Chicken, Ribs, Pork, Brisket and Chef’s Challenge. “Judging went according to appearance, tenderness and flavour,” says Reinhardt.

pileobonesbbq.com rawkentertainment.com

According to Ash, plans are to grow the festival next year with possibly bigger acts and more competitors. “One thing with a festival is you tweak it from year

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Get your forks, napkins and appetites ready for next year’s competition!

Featured

RECIPE

WITH CHEF ERIC DISTEFANO

CHEF BRETT HUBER

Jack Keaton’s BBQ & Grill

N

early four years ago, the dining landscape in Regina changed with the opening of Jack Keaton’s BBQ & Grill in the city’s northwest.

Chef Brett Huber had always dreamed of owning his own restaurant and serving the food he likes to eat every day.

Together with his wife, Kristi, and their years of hospitality experience, Jack Keaton’s was born and is named after Brett and Kristi’s two sons.

Today, Jack Keaton’s serves some of Regina’s best BBQ. The menu features many BBQ delights including brisket, ribs, chicken and pulled pork. Nearly everything is made in-house, including the Jack Keaton’s BBQ sauce and meat rubs, and the sides are just as delectable as the BBQ. The overnight baked beans, hand-cut fries, homemade cornbread and made-to-order Caesar salad are legendary.

Chef Brett Huber’s Jalapeño BBQ Ribs Make-Ahead Jalapeño BBQ Sauce INGREDIENTS 1 lb. brown sugar 1 cup Worcestershire 1 litre ketchup 1 litre white vinegar 6 oz. chopped garlic 1 tbsp. cayenne 1 tbsp. salt 1 chopped onion 4 fresh jalapeños

1 tbsp. cayenne 4 tbsp. onion powder 4 tbsp. black pepper 1 tbsp. cumin 4 tbsp. paprika

RIB PREPARATION BBQ Dry Rub

PREPARATION Apply dry rub to ribs; be sure to massage the spices right into the meat. Smoke the ribs for approximately 3 hours at 225 degrees or until the meat begins to pull away from the bone. Apply sauce generously to both sides and smoke another 30 min. Move ribs to the charbroiler or BBQ grill and slather on more BBQ sauce until a nice dark coating is present, flipping the ribs every few minutes.

INGREDIENTS 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup salt

TIP Be careful not to burn the sauce, as there is plenty of sugar in it.

SAUCE PREPARATION Combine all ingredients in a large stock pot. Simmer 2 hours. When cool, purée in blender. Will keep refrigerated 2 months.

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

FineLifestyles

REGINA

21

FL

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

CHILEAN

FIORDS

Wine, Wonders and Whimsy

By K.A. Beattie Photos D. Beattie

Chile is an amazing place offering a banquet for the senses and provender aplenty for stimulating conversation. How would I describe this country?

A lengthy ribbon of mountains, abrupt shorelines, magnificent plants and cultures with roots deep in a mysterious past.

T

o my delight, from the Pacific coast vantage, Chile was unbelievably beautiful and became more outstanding each day. To put our voyage into perspective, it took more than a week to travel from Lima, Peru to Ushuaia on the Argentine border in Tierra del Fuego. Shall we say our North American maps are a little biased?

Perhaps my most wondrous and thought provoking find was in a tiny museum in Iquique, Chile: several well preserved human mummies. Ten thousand year old mummified

22

FineLifestyles

REGINA

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

human remains are still unearthed with incredible regularity from the Atacama Desert regions. These remains pre-date the Inca Empire by 6,000 years.

Chile is known for its wine industry and I was primed to sample; apparently, my sad little face told it all when we looked at this rather bleak northern scenery.

When in doubt, check with the excursion desk, or in my case, the senior sommelier onboard. The bustling coastal city of Valparaiso offered great hope as we ventured ashore with directions and a shopping list from the sommelier.

Our map and directions took us to the very popular city region of Viña del Mar. As implied there was viña — or better yet, vino and a whole lot of mar. Robust reds abound with Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignons leading the pack, according to my taste buds. Oceania is known for its extensive wine list and as we travelled the wine country, the list expanded to adopt several unusual vintages.

Sailing further south, the weather suited our latitude in mid-February, cool with steady winds laden with salt mist. The fiord lands started for us in the tiny city of Puerto Montt, continued to Punta Arenas and then on to the spectacularly region of Patagonia. Just saying the name “Patagonia” brought excitement to my voice. Who would have thought this

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

corner of the globe was so outstanding?

Ushuaia is a city reminiscent of Jasper, Alberta. Straddling the Argentine border, it boasts the status of most southern city.

Charles Darwin sailed these waters on the famous Beagle of which the channel bears the name. He and his crew actually charted most of our itinerary, journaling the diversity of flora and fauna of this great southern continent.

The great Southern Beech forests must have impressed Darwin, along with the bizarre Araucaria or Monkey Puzzle trees.

Many of the plants in the furthest points south exhibit unusual floral structures and have unique adaptations to ensure pollination and survival under adverse climatic conditions. Fuchsia abound, as do Barberry and a vast array of mosses and ferns, many which bear the names of explorers such as Magellan and Darwin.

Once again, Oceania offered top notch service and one of the most enticing itineraries I have ever taken. It was chock full to overflowing with excellent excursion choices, interesting ports that many ships can’t navigate and the hallmark “family” crew who spoil us time and time again. Gracias mi amigos!

Ken Beattie is the Horticulture Education Manager for the prestigious Canadian Wildlife Federation. cwf-fcf.org/ken

FineLifestyles

REGINA

23

FL

EXPLORE MORE FEATURE

GO EXPLORE MORE! What does it mean to explore? Boarding a plane for some far off land to discover ancient or modern wonders? Breaking new ground? Creating new paths for others to follow?

Made in the Shade Blinds & More: Perfect Window Treatments PrimaDeanna Boutique: Get Your Green and White On PrimaDeanna Boutique has made green and white amazing with their custom-designed, limited edition corsets. Inspired by the province’s beloved football team — the Saskatchewan Roughriders — the boutique has only five corsets available for purchase. Locally made and crafted just for you, call now to book one for yourself or someone special. Located at 819 Arcola Avenue, PrimaDeanna is the place for Regina’s best selection of fine lingerie and bras, available in specialty sizes. Open from noon to 6 p.m., let PrimaDeanna make you feel amazing — because life is too short to only wear beige. Phone 306.531.6750 or visit primadeanna.com.

24

FineLifestyles

REGINA

Whether your new home is a blank canvas or reflects the taste of previous owners, you can give it your personal decorating touch with quality, name-brand window fashions from Regina’s Made in the Shade Blinds & More. Window coverings make a huge difference in the look and feel of your home. They add beauty, enhance light quality and provide privacy — and can even reduce utility bills and provide UV protection. Treat your windows well because you might be living with them for a lifetime. Let your ideas and the experts at Made in the Shade create the perfect window treatments for your style and budget. They serve southern Saskatchewan.

Call 306.552.6487 or visit madeintheshadesosask.ca

EXPLORE MORE FEATURE

T

here is an explorer in all of us — that creative, curious side that wants to learn more, see more, know more. The word itself conjures up images of adventure and fun.

We often forget we can be explorers in our own back yard, our own city and our own region where many treasures, good times and experiences await. Your “bucket list” of things to acquire, do and explore can include anything; it doesn’t need to be a world and years away. It can be today — right here, right now.

Fine Lifestyles wants you to explore everything your community has to offer, whether it’s shopping for products and services, finding the best entertainment and recreation around or simply discovering a delightful place to relax and unwind.

Four local businesses on these two pages invite you to explore their services, products and experiences.

Operating in the Regina area, they are ready and willing to serve you with incredible value and topnotch service. Their offerings range from window coverings to special Saskatchewan Rider corsets to paintball to coffee and tea services. All very different, all very unique — and all close by; give them a call, take a drive and check them out.

Put your exploring hat on and go find the treasures waiting for you. Opportunities and great value are right out your back door!

Prairie Storm Paintball: Eat, Sleep… Paintball!

Prairie Storm Paintball, located just east of Moose Jaw on Highway 1, is the place for fun like you’ve never had before. You’ll find Saskatchewan’s No. 1 paintball field — a nationwide destination. Paintball isn’t just an extreme sport for guys; it’s a great time for anyone looking for some outside fun with friends, family or teammates. Prairie Storm also offers terrific indoor options in their new multi-level indoor Airsoft, Reball & Nerf Arena. Open year-round including holidays, call ahead to make a booking at 306.684.4700. To learn more, visit them online at prairiestormpaintball.com or like them on Facebook for promotions and special events.

Kavarose Coffee Market: Real People, Real Coffee In many languages, the word kava means coffee. At Kavarose Coffee Market, it means so much more. Their passion for a great tasting coffee inspires their business. With single-use coffee replacing traditional drip brewers in many homes and offices, the quality of the coffee started to wane. This is where the Kavarose story begins. Located at 6859 Rochdale Blvd, Kavarose Coffee Market offers the best tasting single-use coffee capsules. Featuring RealCup™ with the Flavour Max™ filter, you’ll get the full flavour of your coffee and tea in your cup every time. You can enjoy the same premium coffee at work with Kavarose office coffee service. With a large variety of premium coffee and tea to choose from and two convenient ways to get them, you, your clients and co-workers are sure to be impressed. Call 306. 537.8563 or visit kavarose.com.

EXPLORE MORE FEATURE

FineLifestyles

REGINA

25

FL

HOUSE & HOME

CURB APPEAL WI TH W I N D OWS & D OOR S

By Scott McGillivray

Investing in new windows and doors is one of the easiest ways to increase your home’s value, curb appeal and save you money in the long run.

26

FineLifestyles

REGINA

HOUSE & HOME

Window Types Explained

Windows: Repair or Replace?

F

irst, check for draf ts, condensation and fogging.

Then ensure the casings are in good condition and free of rot and mould. Make sure caulking has not deteriorated and maintains its seal. You might just be in for a weekend DIY project instead of an entire overhaul.

If you decide to replace the windows, make sure you opt for energy efficient models that maximize the amount you can save on your energy bills, keeping your space cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. Look for windows that are low-e (low emissivity) which reflect the heat to the warm side of the glass (to the inside in winter and the outside in summer) and have a good u-factor rating, which determines how well the window prevents heat loss.

If you’re planning on selling your house in the next five years, new windows are a major selling feature; it’s one of the top five things potential buyers ask about a home. In my experience, good quality, energy efficient vinyl windows will give you the most bang for your buck.

Doors: The Unexpected King of the ROI Dollar for dollar, replacing your existing front door is one of the best returns on investment projects you can do. Your front door is the focal point of your home’s façade. And don’t forget about your door hardware. High quality door hardware complements and completes the look of the door and, more importantly, ensures your home’s security.

Casement: Casement windows swing in and out like a door and are operated with a crank. They offer a high level of ventilation and have a tight seal when closed. You often find them in hard to reach or awkward places (like above a kitchen sink) because they’re easier to open.

Double-hung: One of the most common types of windows, it consists of two sashes that move up and down.

These windows are great for ventilation.

What they lack is energy efficiency, as they often leak more air into homes than other types of windows.

PiCture: Picture windows are large and fixed, usually flanked by two casements or double-hung windows.

Picture windows are big and dramatic, allowing for a lot of natural light and unobstructed views. However, this style is definitely “just for looks” as they offer no ventilation.

You can always opt for a makeover instead of replacement. A fresh coat of paint and upgraded hardware will make a dramatic difference in curb appeal. While you’re at it, update the elements around your door as well, such as house numbers, mailbox, doorbell and exterior lighting. On their own, these are all small elements, but together they add up to a front entrance that looks stylish and well-maintained.

bay: Bay windows are typically made up of one large fixed window in the middle and a casement on either side. Take caution when installing; bay windows are large and very heavy, meaning you must ensure there is adequate structural support.

Check out the new season of Income Property Thursdays at 9 p.m. & 9:30 p.m ET/PT on HGTV CANADA. /EverythingScottMcgillivray @smcgillivray @scottmcg @scott_mcgillivray www.scottmcgillivray.com

skylights: Skylights allow you to look up instead of out. These are a great option when privacy is a concern (such as in bathrooms). However, proper installation and seal are essential, as leaks are the number one problem associated with skylights.

HOUSE & HOME

FineLifestyles

REGINA

27

INCOME PROPERTY NEW EPISODE

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

We’ll get your claim going in 30 minutes.

Protect your home with Prestige.

Meet Prestige: Customizable protection for the things that mean the most to you, higher coverage limits, dedicated around-the-clock claims service and standard features you won’t find in your typical home insurance policy.

Mix and match options to protect your distinctive lifestyle: Whether you’re a home business owner or a specialty interests collector; a savvy investor or have a yard full of boats, bikes, pets and machines.

Ask your SGI CANADA broker about Prestige. www.sgicanada.ca

Dive into Summer with a Brand New Pool

By Tori Stafford

I

f you think your chances of having that pool you’ve always dreamt of in your back yard in time to enjoy it this summer are slim, think again.

“Once all of the planning part has been done — the pool has been selected, we know where it’s going to go, and everything is ordered and here in Regina — we can have the pool ready faster than most pool installers can,” says Zlatko Matenda, owner of Pool Pro. “So definitely, you could have a pool built and still have most of the season to enjoy it.”

Pool Pro offers prefabricated and customized pool options, built and installed in a timely manner, as well as

maintenance services after installation, if necessary. The fully equipped polypropylene enclosed pools are virtually maintenance-free for the owner, and all aspects of the pool are covered in the building cost, leaving no hidden costs for clients. Available in many different shapes and a variety of colours, Pool Pro can create just about any style of pool you can imagine.

Manufactured in Europe, the pools available through Pool Pro are up to five times more pierce resistant than most pools. They are also far more resistant to UV radiation than most pools, meaning colours don’t fade. Their pools offer a service life several times longer than Zlatko Matenda, owner Photo by Calvin Fehr

30

FineLifestyles

REGINA

HOUSE & HOME

those pools made from other materials, such as PVC or fibreglass.

Pool Pro can also build overflow systems, a service not common amongst most pool installers. This allows clients to save time and money by having this system installed by the same team building your pool.

Overflow systems allow for the draining and filtration of pool water, and keep the concrete or stone surround from becoming wet. This means less residue buildup on the walls of the pool that are above water, and the overflow channel surrounding the pool drains surface quickly, thanks to the effective circulation system. Pool Pro also installs UV systems which use the alreadypresent ultraviolet light to keep your pool water as crystal clear as possible.

With services in opening and closing pools, general maintenance and repairs, and even fencing and safety covers which increase safety and pool cleanliness, Pool Pro can handle all of your pool building needs.

Pools starting from $27,900 for a 12 x 24 ft.

Call for details.

Whether you’re looking for an afternoon oasis for relaxing and socializing, an effective therapeutic experience, a fun and active play place for your family, or a means of everyday low-impact exercise throughout the warmer seasons, Pool Pro can help you find the right pool for you and your family’s needs. With an abundance of lighting, landscaping and even water fountain features that can be added, a pool brings aesthetic value to your property that can be enjoyed up to half the year, Matenda says.

“Some people think the ‘season’ in Saskatchewan is too short to justify having a pool,” Matenda adds. “But once someone has a pool, they really can’t believe how much they use and enjoy it.”

Pool Pro 119 Park Ave. Regina 306.216.9323 poolpro88@gmail.com www.poolpro.ca

HOUSE & HOME

FineLifestyles

REGINA

31

Change is in the Air!

Mike Duggleby Broker/Owner Royal LePage Regina Realty 3889 Arcola Ave E Regina, SK 306.359.1900 Fax 306.352.9696 mikeduggleby@royallepage.ca www.royallepageregina.com /RLPRegina #RLPRegina

A

lthough Regina’s housing market has not been growing as quickly as in the past few years, the home price index has bounced up a little bit in the last couple months. Generally speaking, prices are higher than they have been for the last six months or so. In June — depending on whether you wish to take in the entire greater Regina market area or just inside the city itself — there has been either an increase of 21 or 27 per cent increase in sales. This is huge!

Historically, Regina was a market that was never down, but would only grow by about two or three per cent. Then, when 2007 happened, people couldn’t believe it. Many thought prices were going to fall right back to where they were, but that never happened. As a matter of fact,

32

FineLifestyles

REGINA

HOUSE & HOME

prices continued to grow right through to 2012/13. That sort of became the new normal and the fact prices could dip and the market could slow a little bit didn’t seem possible.

When looking at some of the economic indicators, I expect the back half of 2015 sales will be generally higher than they were in 2014. Prices will plateau or perhaps even bump up a little bit. Then, in 2016, I expect to see market activity increase and prices begin to rise.

That being said, it’s still very important to accurately price your house. If you are even $10,000 too high, you will find your home will not sell. It will sit and sit. Price it accurately and it’s not unusual for multiple offers to come in.

There are a lot of buyers out there just waiting for the right home. The problem with an overpriced home is they may feel there is no rush because prices are not going up. The house will be there a month from now and they have time to look around.

In spite of what we see in the outside markets right now, there is still a lot of growth going on in our province.

Saskatchewan seems to be in a proactive rather than reactive mode. This means continued real estate market growth.

So, how do you price your home to attract those buyers? It all starts with your real estate agent. They will bring in recent sales of similar houses and do a comparative market analysis. It’s important to look at the facts in a very dispassionate way.

Yes, this is the house your children grew up in or the first home you owned, but whatever your emotional attachment is, the buyer doesn’t care. They don’t carry the same sentiment. The buyer will look at the house next door, same size, and see it sold for less than what you’re asking.

For the buyer, it’s about getting the best price and because they are emotionally detached from your home, they probably have a better idea of what the actual value is than you do.

NUMBER OF SALES MONTH

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Jan

712

858

736

730

573

Feb

864

1109

840

869

746

Mar

1132

1355

1144

1143

1080

Apr

1210

1474

1380

1503

1303

May

1481

1640

1567

1674

1464

Jun

1511

1506

1556

1639

1622

Jul

1280

1449

1603

1521

Aug

1465

1386

1358

1405

Sep

1339

1179

1290

1513

Oct

1159

1234

1279

1243

Nov

1047

951

987

920

Dec

796

662

705

704

HOUSE & HOME

It all starts with the comparative market analysis. In previous articles, we’ve talked about preparing your home for sale. Follow those steps. Understand if your property shows well, is well maintained and is priced accurately, you will likely get bids on it.

Don’t let your sentiment for your current house stop you from moving forward.

Remember, change is in the air and buyers won’t wait on your home when they can look at one down the street. Keep yourself competitive. Trust your REALTOR® to guide you and you will be successful in selling your house.

FineLifestyles

REGINA

33

Floor Coatings That Work As Hard As You Do

TURN YOUR GARAGE INTO A MAN CAVE • • • •

• • •

Garage Floor Coatings Garage Storage Driveway Sealants 5X Stronger than Epoxies, Three-Coat System, No Hot Tire Pickup, Oil & Salt Resistant Grit Added for Non-Slip Protect Your Investment 1-2 Day Installs

306.539.6067

•

MANCAVECOATINGS@GMAIL.COM

•

MANCAVECOATINGS.COM

•

A New Take On Yorkton Real Estate

Gavin Konkel 306.641.9123

Deanne Arnold 306.621.8890

Corey Werner 306.621.9680

Carma Gramyk 306.621.4616

Brooke Niezgoda 306.621.2586

∙ 306.782.9680 ∙ 5 Third Ave N. Yorkton SK www.teamcore.ca

admin@teamcore.ca

FL

BUSINESS

Fostering Successful

Family Businesses

By Melanie Furlong

When family and business go hand-in-hand, the usual problems associated with either can be amplified. Talking to people who are involved in their own family enterprise and professionals who understand the dynamic well can help save both family relationships and foster successful businesses.

ABOVE Mandy Farmer, member of CAFE Canada, with her father.

36

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BUSINESS

A PAG is made up of approximately eight to 12 family business operators who get together once a month for a half-day and work through CAFE Canada’s proprietary meeting format. “It’s like having your own advisory board to help you deal with personal, family and business issues in a highly confidential and safe environment,” says MacDonald.

There are two main reasons members join CAFE. One is a need for help in managing family dynamics, communication and conflict that may stem from the business.

The second is for help in transitioning the management and ownership of the business to the next generation.

“When you’re dealing with a family, lines of communication may or may not be open,” says MacDonald. “One of the realities is that with each successive generation, people have different points of view, values, expectations and objectives.

As a result, all kinds of issues can come to the surface that need to be managed.”

Most CAFE Canada members are involved in multiple generation businesses — second generation or more.

But 40 per cent are first generation family businesses that want to learn how to manage family dynamics and transition the business properly.

That’s where the Canadian Association of Family Enterprise (CAFE) Canada comes in. The national non-profit memberbased association was established in 1983 with the purpose of providing support, education and resources to those involved in family enterprise.

companies. This large mix of both family businesses and professionals provide a wide range of services and advice to family businesses, ranging from general business management consulting and family facilitation to help with retirement and succession planning.

Executive director, Paul MacDonald, says, “We want to help them succeed as a family by helping them manage the sometimes complicated interface between family and business.”

The organization offers comprehensive online resources, workshops and seminars.

Its annual two-and-a-half day national symposium covers a number of topics relevant to those who own and operate family enterprise. Fundamentally, CAFE’s key value proposition is participation in a personal advisory group (PAG).

CAFE Canada currently operates through 13 chapters across the country and has approximately 835 member

BUSINESS

CAFE Canada members often tell MacDonald the organization was transformational for them. “In many cases, CAFE helped save the family and led to the successful transition of the business to the next generation,” he says.

“You can’t underestimate the power of a forum where you get to speak to other family business owners who have been down the same path as you and can speak to their own experience, as well as connecting you to experts in the field — tapping into that resource is invaluable.”

Mandy Farmer, president and CEO of Accent Inns, says, “I’m passionate about CAFE. It supported me in taking over the family business from my dad and aided me in doing it in a way where both the business and my relationship with my father flourished. How? By connecting me with peers who had similar experiences and putting me in touch with professional advice and resources specific to family businesses. I couldn’t have done it without CAFE.”

FineLifestyles

REGINA

37

Get Your Pension to Work As Hard As You Do

Chris Worby financial advisor Worby Wealth Management 855 Arcola Ave 306.791.8145 chris@worbywealth.ca www.worbywealth.ca

Mutual funds provided through FundEX Investments Inc.

P

ensions are fundamental to most retirement plans, yet many people don’t know how they work. There are two basic types of plans that have many options within them, and we happen to be in a unique position to benefit from one of them.

38

FineLifestyles

REGINA

It is important to understand the two types of pension plans: Defined Benefit (DB) and Defined Contribution (DC).

DB is often called the “old” plan; the statements show what income you will receive at age 65, plus some early retirement options from age 55, 60 and so on. DB plans have what is referred to as the commuted value. They don’t usually have a dollar value like a DC plan or a Registered Retirement Saving Plan (RRSP). Since the end is defined in DB pension, the path is variable. This means the amount you contribute will change over time.

Defined Contribution is the opposite.

The end is unknown, but how much you contribute is known. The Public Employees Pension Plan (PEPP) is the most common version of this plan in Saskatchewan and it is easy to calculate its value at any given time — contribution plus or minus growth and away you go!

However, it is not known what this will be worth at retirement. Group RRSPs operate in a similar fashion.

A major problem with these plans is the lack of accessible advice about them. Of all the available listed options, which one best suits you?

So, what is unique about our pension situation today? Remember that

BUSINESS

commuted value I mentioned before?

Think of it as a teeter totter. On one end is the monthly income you expect to receive and on the other end is the commuted value. If interest rates are 10%, it wouldn’t take as much to support it as if the interest rate were, say, 5%. As it happens, the current 10 year Government of Canada bond is at 1.55% (as at June 5, 2015). This is like a teeter totter with a pivot point 14 feet away from one end and one foot away from the other. It’s going to take a pretty hefty fellow to lift even a small child and it will take a sizeable amount of cash to support that monthly income.

A fantastic story to illustrate this point was a pension transfer we finalized last month. The client and I were expecting about $110,000, but approximately $170,000 ended up being paid out. If managed well, this can sizably outstrip whatever income was going to be provided by the Defined Benefit pension plan this person was leaving.

Pensions are important and it is worth knowing more about them and how they work. If you don’t have a financial plan for retirement that includes a pension or you feel you don’t have enough information about your pension, give us a call and we can help you out.

ABOVE PHOTO L–R Bonnie, Marna, Linda

Downsize, Disperse & Declutter • Have you been named executor of an estate?

with Ease!

•

Are you struggling with the task of dispersing the contents of a home or preparation for its sale?

•

Are you stressed over having to move your elderly parents from their home?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you need to call Transitions Estate Services for a free consultation!

This trio of caring, energetic women and their crew will organize an estate or moving sale, price and advertise it, and arrange for pick-up or delivery of unsold items.

Transitions can quickly pack up the contents of a home and arrange to move it to a new location where they will unpack and put everything in its place. This competent crew can declutter your office, shop, basement and storage areas to create order out of chaos!

•

Do you own a garage or basement you can’t get into because of excess clutter?

If you need to disperse, downsize or declutter, Transitions Estate Services is the answer.

306-535-3990 or 306-789-5544 transitionsestateservices.com |

Saskatchewan Open for Business - A Peek Inside PREF 2015

Edna Keep Real Estate Investor 3D Real Estate Investments 306.536.6266 www.MultipleWaystoWealth.com 3drealestate@sasktel.net

T

his month I had the extreme pleasure of hosting the very first Prairie Real Estate Forum (PREF) in Regina, Saskatchewan and I must say, it was a meeting of the minds like no other.

We were fortunate to gather a number of industry leaders under one roof during the three day event. These influencers were available to participants for networking, education, inspiration and guidance.

Part of the reason I wanted to bring an event like this to Saskatchewan is to showcase the enormous potential we have around us. Business is booming

40

FineLifestyles

REGINA

for almost every single industry. Our exports our strong. Nobody is struggling to find work. The opportunity around us is exciting and I want to see every willing participant take advantage of that while building their financial future.

I wAnt tO ShARE thE tOP 15 PIEcES OF InFORmAtIOn ShAREd By OuR mAny SPEAkERS. 1. Go where you are celebrated, not tolerated. This one rings true for many of us. It is important to surround yourself with like-minded individuals, especially when you are taking on a new adventure.

The people closest to you may not understand what you are trying to accomplish. Building a network of like-minded people will always accelerate your success by

BUSINESS

amplifying your confidence.

2. Wealthy people invest in real estate to protect their money because it is an asset that keeps up with inflation.

3. You are not doing real estate for cash flow; that is not where the money is. Keep your day job!

4. Build a business around your values, not your money.

5. You do not grow in your success; you grow in your failure.

6. To protect yourself and your assets, each property you own should be registered as its own corporation and have its own bank account.

7. Real estate has a seven to 10 year cycle. Understand that when the market goes down, it will always go back up.

8. Marketing is the story that separates you from your competition, so be different. Different is better than better.

9. The ultimate goal is to live a more effortless life. Real estate investing helps with that.

10. True abundance is when all areas of your life are in harmony.

11. People follow opportunity, so it is important to be a recognizer.

12. Saskatchewan is the No. 1 exporter in Canada. That is a tremendous amount of influence we have.

13. The luxury of not having any options is that you become extremely motivated.

14. If you are the “best kept secret� in your industry, you need better marketing.

15. Work smarter, not harder.

Part of PREF was dedicated to the Prairie Dragons, an opportunity for amateur investors to pitch a deal in front of

BUSINESS

a panel of experts in the real estate investing industry.

We also focused on our chosen charity, Habitat for Humanity. During the three day event, we raised more than $700 through the sales of handmade teddy bears and book sales of the four authors in attendance.

I am so thrilled to see what has happened in our province during the past decade and how it continues to grow. There was a time when we were losing our young people right out of university because there was an attitude that Saskatchewan was not the place to be if you wanted to lead a successful life. That has obviously changed and we can proudly say we are open for business. We are open to grow and we accept the challenge to succeed!

FineLifestyles

REGINA

41

Your Sherwood Co-op is your one-stop-shop for all your grocery needs!

We have knowledgeable and trained employees including our meat professionals and butchers who will slice any cut of meat to your specifications.

Sherwood Co-op is all about service, quality and supporting local farmers and communities. While you shop you can pick up Western Canadian chicken, AA Western Canadian beef or premium in-store made products such as chicken pot pie, sandwiches, salads and dips.

We have an excellent and extensive selection of fresh baked breads, quality deli cheeses, deli meats, national brands, CO-OP GOLD brands and more!

Fresh.

Experience a fresh new shopping experience

at Sherwood Co-op

Our profits are your profits.

Our pharmacists are experts on prescription medication, nonprescription medication and natural health products. They will be able to answer any questions you have about these products. They are continually upgrading their knowledge through professional development and accreditation programs. The Sherwood Co-op pharmacists take the time to call back patients to follow-up on their care and also offer prescription delivery and pick-up.

Lifetime membership benefits for only $5!

Your local Co-op membership offers you a lifetime of rewards, including the promise of high-quality products and services at competitive prices. We also offer the potential for annual cash back and an equity account that grows over time, as well as the opportunity to get involved as a member-owner. $3 million in cash was recently given back to Sherwood Co-op members. Support your community by shopping at Sherwood Co-op today!

If you’re a member, you’re an owner.

LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU South Albert Food Store & Pharmacy 3801 Albert Street Quance Food Store 2925 Quance Street East Rochdale Food Store & Pharmacy 5875 Rochdale Boulevard

Sherwood

Protect Yourself With Critical Illness Insurance

I

n thinking about contingency plans for dealing with disability, people commonly assume the disability insurance provided through their employer insurer is sufficient — that it’s all that can or needs to be done. That’s a potentially costly mistake.

Bill Allen CFP Sun Life Financial Avord Tower, 2002 Victoria Ave, Suite 1200 306.757.8631 ext:2207 bill.allen@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/bill.allen

Most people don’t realize their aftertax income while on disability could be reduced by anywhere from 15 to 50 per cent if their income is greater than the maximum insurable amount.

Since most people aren’t expecting this decrease, it comes as a very unpleasant surprise during a period of higher costs.

To avoid financial stress during the recovery process, and to avoid the need to liquidate investments, it’s important to fill this income gap. That’s where critical illness insurance comes in.

Medical advancements mean more people are surviving or living longer with serious health issues such as cancer, heart attack, bypass surgery, multiple sclerosis, organ transplants, Parkinson’s disease, ALS or stroke. For example, did you know almost 90 per cent of people admitted to a hospital with a first-time heart attack survive? Critical illness insurance pays a lump-sum benefit that helps you manage the cost of recovery, which often extends beyond the cost of medical treatment.

Critical illness insurance is a smart way to protect you and your family’s financial wellbeing during the recovery process.

It’s especially important for single people, self-employed individuals or business owners who may not be able to earn a

44

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BUSINESS

living while they focus on recovery. Even if you have disability insurance to replace some of your lost income, critical illness helps fill the gap between your usual predisability income and the amount your disability benefit provides.

Coverage is also available for children, which allows parents to take time away from work to look after their child’s needs, regardless of their health, occupation, lifestyle or recreational activities.

If you are diagnosed with one of the conditions covered under your plan, the lump-sum benefit is paid to you at the end of the required survival period (often as low as 30 days). This benefit gives you more options and greater control over how you manage your recovery, because how you spend the money is entirely up to you. You may use it to cover treatments, medication that isn’t covered by insurance, your lost income, your spouse’s lost income, modifications to your home or vehicle to help you deal with new physical challenges, or simply to pay a few bills — it’s completely up to you.

If you’re still hesitant to get critical illness insurance, talk to a friend or family member who has suffered cancer, a heart attack or some other debilitating illness or accident. Ask them if an extra $50,000 or $100,000 would have helped.

Of course, put that way, you already know the answer. So why delay? Look into critical illness insurance; you may never need it, but if you do, it could make all the difference in the world.

FL

WHEELS

Fascinating Show StopperS at th e D e t roi t auto S h ow

By Tobie Hainstock

This year’s annual North American International Auto Show in Detroit will surely go down in history as one of the most memorable for sexy, breathtaking design and innovative technology.

T

he Ford GT was the talk of the town all week. This thrilling two-seater sports car was inspired by Ford’s GT40 race car of the 1960s. First introduced in 2005, this newest model sets a standard all its own. Some of the highlighting features of this iconic car include a 600 horsepower twin-turbo EcoBoost six-cylinder engine, sculptural flying buttresses off the b-pillars, as well as other highly inventive aerodynamic solutions. The GT offers an estimated zero to 60 acceleration time of about three seconds and a top speed greater than 200 mph. Because of its lightweight carbon fibre construction, the GT is expected by Ford to exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car.

WHEELS

Winners of this year’s show included the ever-popular Ford F-150 for North American Truck of the Year and the Volkswagen Golf and Golf GTI for North American Car of the Year. This marks the eighth time that Ford has walked away with the coveted award. The prestegious awards have many attributes that are taken into account during judging by an esteemed group of American and Canadian journalists.

Noted by many who attended, this year’s show is said to be one of the most fascinating and creative in the show’s 22 year history. It has truly caused many attendees to look forward to what will be on the show floor next year. www.forbes.com www.autonet.ca www.ca.autoblog.com

FineLifestyles

REGINA

45

FL

COVER STORY

Bringing Their BesT

What does it mean to be the best in your industry?

By Brook Thalgott Photos Calvin Fehr

T

hree local businesses stepped forward to share the front cover of this special issue and to answer this question.

Oxford Learning, Suncoast Enclosures and Tidy Time Saver are well-established local businesses, providing services in our community of Regina and beyond.

From them, we hear about operating with integrity and the

importance of paying special care and attention to customers and employees. We rediscover the significance of providing others the tools to succeed and grow. And we are reminded about the benefits of giving back to clients and our community.

Learn more below and in the following pages. Our special Best of the Best feature section is once again “simply the best.”

“What sets us apart in our industry is how we help our students not only improve their academic achievement, but also their self-confidence and belief in themselves.”

—Janet Klassen, Oxford Learning

“Being the best means being available when needed and doing a job you would be proud to show your friends and family.”

—Don Larwood, Suncoast Enclosures

“Being the best in my industry means giving back to the clients and the city we serve.”

2015

—Sharla Shaw, Tidy Time Saver

Suncoast Enclosures Serving Customers With Integrity and Care

Integrity. For Don and Kelly Larwood, integrity guides what they do at Suncoast Enclosures. “For me, being the best means everything we do as a business is done with integrity,” says Don. “From working with our customers to managing our employees, we’re accountable and responsible for everything.”

Don’s commitment to his customers is evident by the care and attention his team takes with each job they do. “We’re always considerate of our customers’ time, and we build relationships with each of them,” says Don. “Being the best means being available when needed and doing a job you would be proud to show your friends and family.”

The best also means being a stable, long-time business in the community, selling a product that is second to none.

Suncoast Enclosures provides screened rooms designed for our prairie climate, engineered to stand up to sun, snow and wind. “Our products are custom built on-site to our customers’ specifications,” says Don. “We’re about making sure the customer gets exactly what they want, every time.”

Finally, being the best means creating more than just a workplace for employees. Suncoast cultivates an open and supportive working environment. “We’re more than just a place for our employees to work. We’re a family and we want our members to be with us for the long haul,” says Don. “We’re always open to feedback from our employees and our customers. It’s all about maintaining our record as a great company to work with and work for.”

Read more about Suncoast Enclosures on pages 122 and 123.

46

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

Tidy Time Saver Giving Back to Clients and the Community Supporting the community she works in is what Sharla Shaw, local owner of Tidy Time Saver, takes the most pride in. “For me, being the best in my industry means giving back to the clients and the city we serve,” says Sharla.

“Our community supports us as a small business and in return, our success lets us do what we can for the community.”

The company is a Platinum sponsor of the Regina Women’s Network’s Courage, Wisdom & Success event, sponsors several local golf tournaments and supports Regina’s Transition House. In addition to monetary donations, Tidy Time Saver is a proud partner with Cleaning for a Reason, where Sharla and her team give free cleanings to women undergoing cancer treatments.

They have also done free cleanings for the Casey Foundation for Autism Support and made donations to many local fundraisers and steak nights.

“The best part of my business is being able to give back and helping someone when they need it most,” says Sharla. “When one of our loyal clients is facing some adversity in their life, we help them out by offering them free cleanings to reduce their stress. Helping people in our community is the wonderful bonus I get every day when I go to work.”

Read more about Tidy Time Saver on pages 58 and 59.

Oxford Learning Giving Students the Tools to Succeed Janet Klassen, owner of Regina’s Oxford Learning, sees the positive effects of her work every day in her students. “What sets us apart in our industry is how we help our students not only improve their academic achievement, but also their selfconfidence and belief in themselves.”

A teacher by profession, Janet took the leap into entrepreneurship when she saw an opportunity to help children struggling with their studies. “The Oxford Learning mission statement spoke to me and it’s a reflection of my own philosophy,” says Janet. “Often, struggling students can fade into the background in classrooms.

I saw the need to help those children get back on track with their learning and to master the skills they need to succeed.”

Janet and her staff work with students to improve their academic performance, while teaching them something deeper than the coursework itself. “For us, it’s way more than good grades. It’s about teaching students the skills they need to learn in whatever subject they’re studying,” she says. “It’s about mastery over memorization and understanding what they’re learning and why.”

Students not only grasp the course material, but also find a sense of accomplishment in their work and gain confidence. “Being the best for me means giving students the tools they need to succeed. Seeing them blossom before my eyes is the best reward,” says Janet.

Read more about Oxford Learning on pages 98 and 99.

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

47

2015

Showcasing Regina and Area’s Best Products & Services!

2015 COLLECTOR ’S EDITION 48

FineLifestyles

REGINA

2015

PUBLISHER’S CHOICE

What Makes a Business the Best?

S

eeking out the “Best of the Best” is a task we take seriously at Fine Lifestyles. With so much competition in the marketplace and consumers researching their options more than ever, businesses must continually innovate to stay at the top of their game. These three key practices make a company stand out from the pack.

1. They PrioriTize The CusTomer exPerienCe. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “A customer is the most important visitor on our premises. We are not doing him a favour by serving him. He is doing us a favour by giving us an opportunity to do so.” The best businesses listen to clients’ needs, exceed their expectations, address their concerns and do their best to ensure their experience is positive from beginning to end.

2. They engage Through effeCTive adverTising.

From sharing services and products on social media to advertising online and in print, successful businesses know how to reach their customers. These days, people are just one click away from a competitor. Businesses who effectively use modern forms of marketing — and adapt as the tools evolve — position themselves well ahead of companies who rely strictly on word of mouth. The more marketing engages directly with customers, the stronger it is.

3. They KeeP sTriving To Be BeTTer. No matter how successful they become, the best companies continually strive to be better. They stay ahead of changes in their industry, pay attention to consumer behaviour and adapt to meet demands. If a service or product they offer isn’t working, they change it. This passion and drive is reflected in every aspect of a successful business. We’re proud to showcase the best of our city and region in these pages.

Afghan Cuisine......................................................................................50 Autobody Shop......................................................................................52 Bath & Kitchen Showroom................................................................54 Bistro.........................................................................................................56 Blind Cleaners/Cleaners....................................................................58 Breakfast.................................................................................................60 Casual Dining........................................................................................62 Countertops...........................................................................................64 Crepes......................................................................................................66 Eyewear.....................................................................................................68 Dealership...............................................................................................71 Desserts...................................................................................................74 Exteriors...................................................................................................76 Family Entertainment..........................................................................78 Fitness Centre......................................................................................80 Footwear..................................................................................................82 Foundations...........................................................................................84 Funeral Services....................................................................................86 Garage Customization.......................................................................88 Home Decor..........................................................................................90 Hotel.........................................................................................................92 Kitchen Cabinets..................................................................................94 Landscape Supplies.............................................................................96 Learning...................................................................................................98 Medical Esthetics...............................................................................100 Mobile Curbside Bin Cleaning........................................................102 Oil & Maintenance Service.............................................................104 Online Marketing...............................................................................106 Painter....................................................................................................108 Pet Grooming......................................................................................110 Professional Bar Service..................................................................112 Real Estate.............................................................................................114 Patio.........................................................................................................116 Spa...........................................................................................................119 Screen Enclosures..............................................................................122 Skin Care...............................................................................................124 Steakhouse...........................................................................................126 Salon.......................................................................................................128 Sushi Restaurant.................................................................................130 Taekwondo............................................................................................132 Treatment Centre...............................................................................134 Wealth Management........................................................................136 Weightloss............................................................................................138 Wellness Products.............................................................................140 Trophies..................................................................................................142

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

49

2015

AFGHAN CUISINE

A True Taste of Afghan Authenticity

By Tori Stafford Photos Calvin Fehr

Nestled in the heart of the downtown core, a small family restaurant promises to deliver a dining experience unlike any other in Regina.

A

fghan Cuisine Family Restaurant offers an authentic taste of the Middle East as the Hafizi family shares the traditional foods of their native country with those in the city they now call home.

Abdullah Hafizi and his wife, Zahra, fled the dangers of their native Afghanistan and moved to Canada with their

50

FineLifestyles

REGINA

daughter, Manijeh, and son, Arian, with the hope of a better life. What they found was a country that welcomed them, and a chance to share some of the delectable and vibrant foods of their homeland with their new friends and neighbours.

“My mom has always been an aspiring chef,” says Manijeh, manager at

BEST OF THE BEST

Afghan Cuisine. “She decided this is what she wanted to do. She wanted to open a restaurant — a family restaurant — and show everyone what Afghan food is all about.”

In 2007, Afghan Cuisine opened its doors to Regina, a city that had no other restaurants serving Halal foods. And

Above L–R: Rashid, Arian, Zahra, Armaan, Abdollah, Manijeh, Anisa

while the restaurant was an obvious success with the Muslim community of Regina, who were now able to dine out without being limited to vegetarian options, the larger community as a whole seemed to immediately embrace Afghan Cuisine. With no other eatery like it in the area, the rich-yet-delicate flavours and unique combinations associated with Afghanistan fare have quickly become a favourite option for many in Regina.

“People seemed to really, really like the food,” Manijeh says introducing the aromatic and carefully spiced Afghan dishes to the area. “We’ve had a lot of people say they think our food is so flavourful and so different and now they come all the time.”

Flavours of saffron, turmeric and coriander highlight many of the dishes at Afghan Cuisine. Hailing from

the Afghan city of Herat, the Hafizi family prepares cuisine based on the traditional foods of northwestern regions of Afghanistan — dishes known for including a number of spices without being spicy, Manijeh explains.

Customer favourites at Afghan Cuisine include kabobs, especially the tikka chicken kabob of marinated chicken grilled over open flame and the shamie kabob of spiced ground beef. Another favourite is the rice pilaf, qabuli, comprised of brown rice, raisins and carrots — a unique medley of flavours that is the national dish of Afghanistan.

The recently renovated space welcomes guests in and persuades them to stay awhile, with an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. Regulars have come to enjoy chatting with the Hafizi family after joining them for their ever-changing lunch or supper buffets, and continue to return for their flavoursome meals made

BEST OF THE BEST

with fresh, local ingredients. Those with a sweet tooth will be happy to learn custom cake orders have returned at Afghan Cuisine, with Manijeh taking over the role of baker while her mother is busy creating authentic delicacies for lunch and dinner guests.

“I learned everything I know about making the cakes from my mother. I really, really love baking,” Manijeh explains with passionate enthusiasm. “We want our customers to feel at home. It really is a family restaurant here, and it likely always will be.”

Afghan Cuisine Family Restaurant 832 Albert St. Regina 306.949.0800 info@afghancuisine.ca www.afghancuisine.ca

FineLifestyles

REGINA

51

2015

AUTOBODY SHOP

AUTO BODY REPAIR The Proof is in the Process

By Tobie Hainstock Photos DeAnne Bell

F

or eight years, the people of Regina have trusted their vehicles to Universal Collision Centre (UCC). “We would like to thank our customers for their continued support and we look forward to upholding our standards for exceptional client service,” states P.J. Morris, general manager.

As SGI’s largest accredited shop, UCC offers patrons the security of knowing their vehicle is being repaired by highly skilled and qualified staff.

“We’re honoured to receive Fine Lifestyles Regina’s Best of the Best Award for the third consecutive year,” says Morris. He states the key elements to attaining customer satisfaction and

52

FineLifestyles

REGINA

service excellence include being organized, detail oriented and good communicators. “Each day we have four short meetings to discuss our progress and the most efficient ways to reach our goals,” Morris adds. The team works together in the areas that need assistance, which is instrumental in avoiding any backlog in the production process.

“We are very process oriented because we have a deep respect for our customers’ time and their vehicle,” says Morris. To keep that process running smoothly, the team at UCC has a seven step process which is followed:

BEST OF THE BEST

1. Repair Plan: The vehicle is strategically dismantled as the team carefully goes through everything that needs to be repaired. The car doesn’t go into production until they have 100 per cent of the parts needed.

2. Metal Repair: This is where the deep repairs of the vehicle occur. UCC has a team of highly talented craftsmen with years of experience, as well as the latest in repair equipment to ensure the vehicle is completed to preaccident condition.

3. Filler Department: Before your car is painted, the team members will make sure the surface of the vehicle is nice and smooth. It’s extremely important this step is done to perfection.

4. Prep and Prime: It’s very important all preparation work is done to inprocess quality standards before the vehicle is painted.

5. Refinishing Department: Before it’s painted, a great deal of care goes into masking a vehicle to make certain no overspray occurs. The highly maintained paint booths ensure top quality paint and supplies are used on every vehicle.

vehicle will get the best professional care and attention. Universal Auto Spa offers a wide selection of detailing packages to best suit your needs.

6. Reassembly Department: The UCC team reassembles the vehicle according to pre-accident condition, while double-checking the fit and finish of the vehicle.

UCC is proud to have the best team, the best facility and the best customers in the province. “We truly appreciate the care and attention to detail that our technicians put into each vehicle. We all do the very best we can to please our customers and we are extremely grateful for their ongoing loyalty.”

7. Quality Control Check Point: This is a very detailed verification process that ensures everything is completed to the impeccable quality customers expect of the UCC team.

Universal Collision Centre 3910 Rochdale Blvd Regina 306.525.6000 www.uccregina.com

UCC is also home to a large and organized auto spa that provides professional detailing services. With trained staff and environmentally friendly cleaning products, you can be confident your

OPPOSITE The Universal Collision Centre Team

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

53

2015

BATH & KITCHEN SHOWROOM

Make Your Home’s Smallest Room Your Favourite…

With a Bathroom Reno

By Melanie Furlong

T

he bathroom might be the smallest room in the house, but often it’s the one that gives you the most privacy. For many, the coveted privacy and relaxation the bathroom offers makes it a mini-haven.

Helping you decide how to renovate this room to meet your every need is The Ensuite’s specialty. And the store, which is part of the century-old Emco family of firms, has fabulous new options for homeowners.

The latest is Kohler’s new Choreograph Shower Wall and accessory collection.

The Choreograph system allows you to bring the beauty of luxurious tile into your bathroom at a fraction of the cost, labour and time. Their wall sets give

54

FineLifestyles

REGINA

homeowners the ability to customize bathtub surrounds or stand-alone showers with different colours and styles.

For example, the look of granite, linen and subway tile walls can be combined with any accessories, shower bars or seating you may need.

Scott Forsyth, showroom manager at The Ensuite, says, “Kohler looked at the popularity of showers, but realized not all people want to spend money on custom tile work. With the Choreograph wall system, you can get the look of expensive tile without paying for the labour and expense that go into it.” The wall systems can also be installed quickly — often within a day — by a contractor or a handy DIYer.

BEST OF THE BEST

The Choreograph system has been well received by both retail customers and contractors because it is so easy to customize and install. “The walls don’t have to be solid pieces,” says Forsyth.

“They have 28-inch high accent panels with different finishes that can be used to create borders and further customize the look.”

Another new Kohler product, one that will allow you to bathe comfortably into your advanced years, is the Elevance Rising Wall Bath. This one-of-a-kind system features an easy-to-slide wall that allows the bather to sit on the tub seat, swing her legs inside and pull up the tub’s wall while filling it with water. The tub’s integrated grab bar, waterfall and optional hydrotherapy

features make the luxury of laying in the tub accessible and comfortable for anyone with mobility issues.

As a Premiere Kohler Showroom, The Ensuite carries various other brands and has set up whole Kohler bathroom lines in five different suites. It also has two trough sinks full of functional kitchen sinks and faucets as well as two functioning five-foot showers, making it the largest functioning showroom in Saskatchewan.

Here, customers can see, feel and experience quality products before bringing them home. The Choreograph display will be up soon so you can come into showroom and see and feel all the different looks and styles for wall sets, seating options and accessories before you install them. You can even coordinate your entire bathroom.

The Ensuite’s consultants are highly trained in the Kohler line and can answer any questions about kitchen and bath renovations you may have. Customers often say they come to The Ensuite for the friendly, knowledgeable staff members who are willing to help them throughout the process, no matter the size of the project.

Come to The Ensuite, find what you want for your bathroom renovation and have fun doing it.

The Ensuite Bath & Kitchen Showroom 678 Cornwall St., Regina 306.352.3626 sforsyth@emcoltd.com www.theensuiteregina.com Staff photo by Calvin Fehr

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

55

2015

BISTRO

Breakfast, Lunch & Unforgettable

HOMEMADE FLAVOUR

B

reakfast — it’s the most important meal of the day.

Regina’s Haritos family has taken that motto to heart at Breakfast Bistro. Located on Quance Street in the east end of the city, Breakfast Bistro is the place to go for hearty, homemade breakfasts. Unlike many fast-food breakfasts, all the ingredients are chosen and prepared with care and attention.

“We source locally, including our thick-cut, cherry-smoked bacon. Our potatoes are

56

FineLifestyles

REGINA

from Lumsden, and each is hand-cut,” says owner Niki Haritos. “Nearly everything on the menu is made in-house and we add our own special flair to each dish.”

The All-Day Eggs Bennies are the crown jewel on the menu. The Hollandaise sauce is extra special; its secret is a splash of Sriracha that tops each style of Benny. There’s the traditional version with ham or bacon; Sriracha-style with avocado, tomato and arugula; vegetarian

BEST OF THE BEST

with roasted vegetables and herb aioli; and a delightful Florentine with spinach and feta. Each is served with spicy roasted potatoes and a freshly cut fruit bowl. Thinking about something more traditional? You’ll also find a hearty two egg breakfast with your choice of bacon, ham or sausage and a side of oven roasted hash browns, toast and fruit — or design your own three egg omelette, served with all the fixings. You can also find mammoth home-baked cinnamon

rolls just like Grandma used to make — plus buttermilk pancakes, Belgian waffles, muffins and French toast. Everything is made from scratch and the meats are all sourced locally.

If it’s a great lunch you’re looking for, Breakfast Bistro has many great choices.

The Bistro Burger is made with a fresh beef patty and topped with bacon, avocado, arugula, red onion, Sriracha aioli, tomato and cheddar cheese. Try the Apple Brie Melt; fresh apple is basted in butter and then topped with brie cheese, fig jam and served on flax toast with your choice of soup, salad or fries. There’s a vegetarian wrap piled with roasted zucchini, peppers, asparagus, spinach, Sriracha aioli and cheese, also with a side soup, salad or fries. The homemade soups change daily, and customer favourites include butternut squash, creamy tomato basil and borscht. If you’re in the mood for something straight out of the Haritos family cookbook, try Niki’s mother’s spanakopita. “It’s my mom’s secret blend of Greek herbs that makes our spanakopita so good,” says Niki.

Breakfast Bistro has the perfect beverage to go with your meal. There’s a great selection of coffees including Americano, Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte and a fabulous Greek-style coffee where the cream sits on top, creating a wonderful two-layer caffeine pick-me-up. “We’re also licensed, and our wines, beers and cocktails are a great accompaniment for breakfast,” says Niki. Try a mimosa, available in orange juice or Saskatoon berry flavours or a glass of Ruffino Pinot Grigio, a light and fruity wine that’s great for breakfast. There’s also Breakfast Bistro’s own Caesar rimmed with cured bacon and served with a skewer of more bacon and a pickle — or just enjoy a simple pint of 1664 beer.

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Haritos Family is waiting to make your day. Find Breakfast Bistro at 3283 Quance Street and online at breakfastbistro.ca.

Breakfast Bistro 3283 Quance Street, Regina 306.206.1811 breakfastbistro.ca RIGHT Bill & Niki Haritos, owners

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

57

2015

BLIND CLEANERS

The Solution for Your Blind Cleaning Needs

D

o you dread the thought of taking down your blinds, trying to wash them in your bathtub and then trying to find a place to hang them? We have found the solution for you. Regina Ultrasonic Blind Cleaning Service will come to your house, remove your blinds, clean them and reinstall your blinds, usually all in one day. With the Ultrasonic machine, we can clean all types of blinds including mini blinds, micro blinds, venetian blinds, faux wood blinds, pleated shades, honeycomb shades, silhouettes, luminettes, vignettes, vertical vinyl, vertical free hang and vertical cloth.

Ultrasonic cleaning is safe, convenient and economical. Only ultrasonic blind cleaning

58

FineLifestyles

REGINA

“I recently had my household blinds cleaned using a new service, ‘Regina Ultrasonic Blind Cleaning.’ I was both pleased and impressed with the results. The crew removed the blinds in the morning, and reinstalled them later that afternoon. The blinds, both standard Venetian, and fabric, looked like new. The price is reasonable, and the results excellent. I heartily endorse this service.”

—Brian M.

can ensure that your blind does not get scratched or damaged while being cleaned.

Ultrasonic blind cleaning is also the only way to safely clean the entire blind including the slats, cords, ladders, tapes and head rail.

Ultrasonic blind cleaning also ensures that there is no static electricity to attract dust following the cleaning.

BEST OF THE BEST

Save yourself the time and hassle, and call us today!

Regina Ultrasonic Blind Cleaning Service 202–2206 Dewdney Avenue, Regina 306.525.2655 www.reginablindcleaning.com

You Should Feel Comfortable with

2015

CLEANERS

Who is Cleaning Your Home

E

mployees are truly the backbone of any company, and this could not be truer of the staff at The Tidy Time Saver Professional Cleaning Service. Many may think of cleaning as a mindless job, but our employees think just the opposite: they love what they do and they are proud to help make our clients lives much less stressful. We believe we have the best staff, and we are very grateful to have such wonderful ladies who are part of our team.

Claudette W., one of our clients, recently said “I can’t wait for Thursdays because there is no better feeling than walking into the house once the ladies have been there.

They are so wonderful I could adopt them.”

Melissa D., who has worked for The Tidy Time Saver for the past eight years, says “This job gives me a sense of pride because I know that when I am leaving a clean house, I have just made someone’s day. I truly cherish the personal relationships I have made with many of my clients.”

If you would like to have two of our fantastic ladies come and clean your home, give us a call today!

proud partner of

ABOVE Sharla Shaw, owner

TIDY TIME SAVER Tidy Time Saver 202–2206 Dewdney Avenue, Regina 306.546.1505 www.tidytimesaver.com

ABOVE Tidy Time Saver Staff

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

59

2015

BREAKFAST

Decadent, Delicious & Healthy Breakfast That Will Keep You Coming Back

By Tori Stafford Photos DeAnne Bell

T

hey say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but whether it’s breakfast, brunch or lunch, at Cora every meal is the most important.

From fresh and fruity to savoury and satisfying, Cora Breakfast and Lunch offers options to please any palate. Known for their hearty Ben et Dictine Plates and bountiful arrays of fresh fruit, Cora is the perfect place to start your day off right, or recharge over lunch with friends or colleagues. And with a menu boasting a variety of options including omelettes,

60

FineLifestyles

REGINA

French toast, crepes, sandwiches and waffles, Cora Breakfast and Lunch truly offers something for everyone.

Darcy Furber, former member of the Saskatchewan Legislature, opened Cora Breakfast and Lunch in December 2013.

An iconic Canadian franchise with more than 130 locations across the country, Cora Breakfast and Lunch was founded

by Cora Tsouflidou, who opened the first Cora location — a small diner — in Montreal’s Saint-Laurent district almost 30 years ago. With a focus on fresh, wholesome and delectable dishes, Cora

BEST OF THE BEST

Breakfast and Lunch is a great fit here in Regina, Furber expresses.

“I think every breakfast place in Regina is busy, especially on the weekends, so it’s pretty obvious people here love breakfast,” he says. “I also think the concept of a breakfast and lunch restaurant is a good one for the city and we’re happy to be able to provide a healthy option for them.”

Since opening, regulars and first-time diners at Cora have quickly discovered favourite menu items they return for time

and again. Now, Cora Breakfast and Lunch is excited to be rolling out new menu items that are already proving popular, Furber says. “We’re really delighted with the new menu,” he says. “We’ve got a lot of new food items that we’re pleased to be offering.”

Items recently added to the diverse menu at Cora include those to satisfy a sweet tooth and quench culinary cravings.

Cora’s new chocolate crepes include the Choco-choco Feast — a chocolateinfused crepe filled with strawberries, bananas, caramel sauce and a chocolatehazelnut spread — and the Black Forest Crepe, which is filled will black cherries and a mixture of custard and cream cheese on a bed of English cream. Cora has also introduced Breakfast on a Waffle and Breakfast on a Crepe. A cheddar waffle or crepe is topped with two eggs, two strips of bacon and two sausages and

cheddar cheese, creating a full breakfast atop your favourite pastry.

The new menu also answers some of the requests Cora customers have brought forward, including a reduced portion size menu offering smaller versions of menu favourites, and an outstanding variety of options for those who are gluten sensitive.

It’s all part of ensuring customers can share in a wonderful dining experience when they dine at Cora Breakfast and Lunch, Furber explains.

“We have options that a lot of other places don’t have, so we’re very proud of that,” he says, noting Cora has healthy and tasty options to complement the classics. “There are some brilliant tasting options for just about anyone.”

Cora Breakfast and Lunch 4634 Gordon Rd., Regina 306.585.2672 www.chezcora.com/regina

Darcy Furber, owner

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

61

2015

CASUAL DINING

Enjoy Great Food and Piano Entertainment in this

Comfortable Nest

By Tobie Hainstock Photos Calvin Fehr

The ambience is relaxing as the pianist tickles the ivories to a familiar tune. You are seated with your favourite glass of wine and while you peek over the menu, you can feel the cares of the day lift away.

62

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

T

he Nest Piano Bar and Good Eats has quickly become a popular retreat for those who are looking for a fresh, unique place to unwind.

“I was looking for something different to offer the people of Regina,” says Erin Dunn, owner/operator. Dunn comes from a family of entrepreneurs and has a lot of experience in the hospitality industry. For some time, she had noticed the city had a large variety of pubs and sports bars but not much for those people who just want to enjoy a glass of wine, great music and incredible food.

Walking into the Nest can be a bit of an eye-opener. The building has been completely renovated and redecorated to give it a completely new atmosphere.

Darker neutral tones throughout offer a cool sophistication to the room as you are seated on plush leather chairs or in comfortable booths. Ambient lighting sets the tone for the evening with the focal point being the stunning

chandelier and grand piano in the center of the room.

Along with an amazing atmosphere, the Nest offers a wide array of beer, wine and spirits. “We have a great selection of locally crafted drafts available along with the usual domestic favourites,” states Dunn. She smiles as she admits the wine list was a labour of love. “I wanted to choose wines that were different from the other businesses in town.

We’ve actually been complimented by customers for our selections.”

A big part of the Nest experience is the music. Dunn is extremely pleased with the musicians they have on board — all very talented and all with their own unique styles. Live music begins every evening at 6 p.m. with two pianists per night. Genres include blues, jazz, Motown, rhythm and blues, pop and more. “Every artist has his own style,” Dunn explains. “Some are more singers, some take requests, but all are very talented and know how to please an audience.”

BEST OF THE BEST

What’s an evening out without great food? The Nest’s Chef Darryl and Sous Chef Jenn serve up delightful dishes.

The menu features superb appetizers, entrees, salads and desserts. Everything is freshly made in-house to give you the best dining experience possible. And let’s not forget dessert! Whether you’re in the mood for deep fried ice cream, a decadent cheesecake of the day or some other pleasure, your sweet tooth will not go home disappointed. The Nest is also open for lunch for those seeking a midday retreat.

Since opening, there has been a lot of great feedback and Dunn and her staff are thrilled to have this opportunity to serve the community. Offering a memorable experience that will bring customers back again and again is their dream come true.

The Nest Piano Bar and Good Eats 4440 Albert Street Regina 306.586.6378

FineLifestyles

REGINA

63

2015

COUNTERTOPS

64

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

TRUE CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH

Stunning Granite

By Tobie Hainstock Photos DeAnne Bell

E

nhance the beauty and the value of your home with the stunning look of granite. At CNG Stone Products, you will get the best quality materials installed by trained craftspeople who take pride in their work.

“I’m very lucky to be working with a strong team with lots of experience,” says Scott Tresek, owner of CNG Stone in Regina.

“We put a lot of pride in our work.”

is measured and cut, installation generally takes just a few hours.

CNG Stone offers a wide selection of beautiful exotic granite from which to choose. Not sure what to pick? The sales staff help you find what works with the colours in your kitchen or bathroom.

Quality product combined with impeccable craftsmanship and outstanding service — that’s what you get when you choose CNG Stone Products.

Tresek explains that with their laser measuring technology, measuring and cutting is a very quick yet precise job.

Paying close attention to detail and accuracy, the measuring process can be done within 20 minutes. Once the granite

“My daughter works at a cabinet company and recommended CNG Stone for our kitchen renovation. Later, we met Susan at the Home Show. She took the time to answer our questions and later guided us through the entire process. The installers came out and did a great job. Everything turned out beautiful.”

—Michelle Jelinski

Because they understand the inconvenience of having a kitchen renovated, CNG Stone Products focuses on being quick and exact with delivery and installation. “We guarantee the granite will be installed within two weeks after the cabinets are installed,” remarks Tresek.

Visit the showroom Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

CNG Stone Products 1445 Scarth Street, Regina 306.585.9876 www.cngstone.com |

“We specifically wanted soapstone for our project and CNG Stone had the knowledge and experience to work with it. They went the extra mile to get what we were looking for.

They even went into detail of explaining the care and characteristics of soapstone.”

—Ruben and Katherine Manz

“I built a new home and the builder recommended CNG Stone for the granite work on my large island, bathroom countertop and feature island in the basement.

The first time I went there and met Susan, she was awesome!

When installed, there was a small imperfection in the stone. The installer was very thorough about getting it just right. Everyone did a great job!”

“We actually found CNG Stone online. We got a chance to speak to Scott on the phone and he seemed like a very fair man. We were very pleased with the installer; he used state-ofthe-art equipment with amazing precision. When it was complete, he gave us his phone number and told us to call him directly if we had issues. We can’t say enough about the great service!”

—Natalie Schaeffer

—Bill and Allison Schmidt

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

65

2015

CREPES

Crepe Expectations

By Brook Thalgott Photos DeAnne Bell

For two years, Marokena Crepe Café has been serving Regina French crepes, providing patrons with a delightful European-style experience right here at home. Located in the city’s northwest on Rochdale Boulevard, the café has earned its well-deserved reputation as the place to go for authentic sweet and savoury crepes. In 2015, things are changing at Marokena, but customers can still expect the same fantastic menu and great service they have come to expect since the café opened.

66

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

R

egina resident Lina Jiang is the new owner of Marokena Crepe Café. Lina moved to the city 15 months ago, decided to follow her passion for baking and purchased the café in 2015. “I was in the jewelry business for 12 years,” says Lina.

“However, I have always loved cooking and when the opportunity came to buy Marokena I knew I had to take it.”

Lina’s passion for jewelry has translated well into her new venture as Marokena’s owner. She believes making the perfect crepe is the same as crafting a beautiful

piece of jewelry — both require passion and love. Lina is dedicated to her passion for food and to keeping Marokena the welcoming place it is for everyone who loves delicious food.

While the owner of Marokena is new, the food remains the same — delicious. The café’s crepes are the finest you can find locally and the fillings are as wonderful as always. For the savoury, you’ll find Marokena chicken, honey dill chicken, chicken mushroom pesto and Moroccan sausage. If it’s sweet you’re looking for, you can dive into raspberry, cinnamon apple, vanilla peach, caramel banana and coconut cream, among others.

Plus, the atmosphere is like no other in the city. You can watch your crepe get prepared right in front of you while you enjoy the café’s Old World charm. Lina

and the Marokena staff work hard to provide a unique dining experience in the small and cozy café. Catering is also available for up to 30 people, perfect for special occasions such as baby and bridal showers, birthdays, corporate meetings and office lunches.

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m to 7 p.m., Marokena Crepe Café is ready to fill you up with French crepe goodness.

Marokena Crepe Café 5950 Rochdale Blvd, Regina 306.352.7373 marokenacrepecafe.com MarokenaCrepeCafe OPPOSITE Simply Delicious TOP LEFT Lemon TOP RIGHT Cinnamon Apple BOTTOM LEFT Raspberry BOTTOM RIGHT Moroccan Sausage RIGHT L–R Lisa, Lina (owner), Rita

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

67

EYEWEAR

68

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

Growing & Providing The Best To Meet Your Optical Needs

T

he Factory Optical group has done anything but slow down.

With four new stores and three more in various stages of construction, Stephen McIntosh’s previous prediction that the company may stop to “catch its breath” appears to be unfounded. “Growth is intoxicating,” McIntosh affirms, “particularly when the alternative is doing nothing.”

There is a method to this madness. “It is not so much about looking for new markets for our stores at this point,” McIntosh, president of the Factory Optical and Optiks International group says. “It’s more about completing the markets we are already in.” The company, which calls itself Optiks International outside of Saskatchewan, has, for example, four stores in Vancouver — “too few to really leverage synergies and economies of scale in a market of that magnitude,” adds McIntosh. They face a similar situation in Calgary and Edmonton, markets where they presently have two “super-opticals” in each, but need one or two more to position themselves as market-wide.

The Factory Optical group of companies began in Regina in August 1999 with a single store on Victoria Avenue and four employees. They have since grown to become the sixth or seventh largest optical retailer in the country based on dollar volume, with 24 doors this fall and 200-plus employees. “There are companies out there with more stores, but we build big stores, some as large as 10,000 square feet. You could argue these larger stores are really more representative of three or four or even five stores on a revenue basis,” McIntosh claims. The company remains very bullish on its Rx safety eyewear initiative, with more than 150 corporate clients and a new sales office in Fort McMurray, AB. Another area where followers of the Regina company’s history will note a deviation from plan is the April 1,

BEST OF THE BEST

2015 opening of a massive boutique in Saskatoon. Says McIntosh: “The staffing opportunity, the location we were offered and the fact we have already some element of brand equity built up there by virtue of having operated stores in Regina, Moose Jaw, Estevan and Prince Albert for so long, rendered the opportunity too compelling to pass up.”

As a result, Factory Optical has built on its mantra of being the largest optical retailer in the province with the addition of its Saskatoon Stonebridge location — a 6,500 square foot boutique with full time, onsite optometry and 3,000 luxury brand frames in inventory such as Prada, Gucci, Dior, Tiffany, Boss, Armani, RayBan and Oakley. As always, they have merchandised on their everyday “2 for 1” platform and done so without regret. “We started out of the blocks fast and have never looked back,” adds McIntosh.

So where do they go from here? “Much of the heavy lifting in our company has been done. We have strong systems in place for product delivery. Our accounting and finance group now provide insight and direction, as opposed to simply serving a compliance purpose. We have materially ramped up our marketing efforts and staffed this area with people who do this for a living. It’s funny, but the larger we get, the more attention and focus we employ on new store decisions. We spend more time arguing about location, size, layout and staffing than we ever have before.”

As an example, the decision to set up their first store in Saskatoon a few months ago was “agonizing.” The company feels it may have a half dozen more stores left in it after making good on their existing commitments this fall. Beyond new store locations, they have numerous initiatives underway: remodeling stores, increasing training, partnering with iconic brands such as Oakley and Ray-Ban to create the largest collections in the country, developing a proprietary E-tail strategy

FineLifestyles

REGINA

69

and communicating directly with their customers via social media.

One has to wonder if they will ever slow down. Stephen McIntosh is excited about what they are doing, as evidenced by his smile that never seems to fade when talking about all things optical. In spite of all the rhetoric, business analytics and any measure of success achieved to date, they are simply having too much fun to stop now.

Through its four stores in the city, including the province’s largest optical store on University Park Drive and its sister store, Eyecandy Optiks in Southland Mall, Factory Optical maintains an unwavering effort to continuous selfimprovement. Fine Lifestyles is pleased to identify Factory Optical as “the Best of the Best” in Regina. Admits McIntosh: “We are extremely grateful and humbled by this consideration.”

Factory Optical 926 Victoria Ave 306.522.6411 518 University Park Dr. 306.790.7682 5556 Rochdale Blvd 306.585.1035 Eyecandy Optiks 156-2965 Gordon Rd. Southland Mall 306.949.5878

70

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

2015

DEALERSHIP

Your Best VEHICLE EXPERIENCE

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

71

Tucked away in a closet upstairs at Capital GMC Buick Cadillac in Regina, SK is a Melfort Mustangs hockey jersey — a reminder of how far Bruce Axelson and the Capital Automotive Group has come.

B

ruce Axelson, president of the Capital Automotive Group, has spent the majority of his life working in the automotive business. “I got a job at a Chrysler dealership when I was 14. I spent every waking hour that I could there, every day after school, every Saturday, every holiday; all I did was work at that dealership.”

Capital Auto expanded its facilities building to three new structures in northwest Regina known as the Capital Auto Mall. With 170,000 square feet of buildings on 25 acres of land, the auto mall is home to two national award winning dealerships as well as Saskatchewan’s largest auto body shop, Universal Collision and Autospa.

After working his way up to sales manager at a Regina dealership, Bruce purchased a Chevrolet Oldsmobile Dealership in Melfort.

For 27 years, Bruce owned that store as he continued growing his footprint on the automotive business.

In 1992 Capital Auto had 65 employees; it has now expanded to around 500. “A lot of families count on us every month to put a little bread on the table. We consider that quite a responsibility and we enjoy it,” says Bruce.

In 1992, Bruce returned to Regina and purchased Capital GMC Buick Cadillac. Ten years later, he purchased Capital Ford. In 2007,

Bruce and the Capital Automotive Group haven’t stopped expanding. In the summer of 2014, Capital Automotive Group

ABOVE Bruce Axelson, president

72

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

purchased two more dealerships: Southgate GMC Buick in Edmonton, AB and Landau Ford Lincoln in Winnipeg, MB. Non-commission sales staff, no hassle pricing and premium trade-in evaluations are just a few reasons for the success of Capital Automotive Group. “It’s the culture that makes the Capital Auto Group,” Bruce adds.

“We have to remember we’re in the transportation business and people have a different feeling about an automobile than they do about most things in their lives. If your fridge breaks, big deal, don’t buy milk that day, but it’s different when you sell a car or need a new one. It’s an emotional experience and we understand that. We’ll always respect your time and your investment.”

Although it’s been more than 50 years since Bruce started working in the automotive industry, he hasn’t forgotten what it’s all about. “There has to be a mutual respect and acceptance of the transaction and it has to be good for everybody — not just good for the dealer, and not just good for the customer — good for everybody. We think fairness is a really important part of what we do,” Bruce says.

“When people buy a car, they’ve got a lot of choices: where to buy the car, the brand of car they want to buy,” he adds.

“All manufacturers make good cars and every car dealer has a nice building, so we try to make that experience one that is fair and respectful both ways.”

Bruce extends a warm welcome to customers: “The coffee is always on and we would love the opportunity to show you around. We can help you get into a new vehicle too.”

Capital GMC Buick Cadillac 4020 Rochdale Blvd, Regina 844.412.8775 www.capitalgmc.ca

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

73

2015

DESSERTS

E at a MACARON In a Cookie Cutter World,

By Brook Thalgott Photos DeAnne Bell

74

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

I

f you’re thinking dessert, there is only one place that should come to mind — Regina’s Le Macaron. Opened by Gilles and Jacqueline Gobin in 2010, the French-inspired café has established itself as the place to visit for any sweet tooth. Tucked away on Quance Street on the city’s east end, it’s full of wonderful pastries, cakes, tortes, crepes and of course — macarons. No matter what your dessert desire, Le Macaron is sure to satisfy.

As its name suggests, Le Macaron is chock full of macarons. The café turns out 10,000 a month in a variety of delectable flavours.

You’ll always find salted caramel, chocolate caramel and café espresso available, along with ever-changing seasonal delights such as orange, raspberry and white chocolate mint. “The macarons are our trademark,” says Gilles, owner and Red Seal pastry chef.

“They make wonderful gifts for offices, excellent favours for weddings and baby showers, and of course, for ‘just because.’ ”

Le Macaron is more than just little French meringues. Now, the café is home to a crepe station offering an array of sweet and savory crepes. The crepe station is open from 8 am to 6 pm daily, and you’ll find fresh strawberry, Nutella banana and a crepe of the day, such as blueberry lemon curd. “Our crepes are available for dining in or taking out,” says Gilles. “And yes, you can get them gluten-free.”

If you’re in the mood for a cake, Le Macaron will dazzle you with luscious cheesecakes and tortes. There’s the classic cashew salted caramel cheesecake — a Le Macaron staple with plenty of devotees — and tortes galore.

From vanilla buttercream to chocolate mousse to red velvet, you’ll find a cake for every palate. And, with three days’ notice, Le Macaron can create a custom cake just for you. “We can make just about any torte you can think of,” says Gilles.

Besides macarons, crepes and cakes, you’ll also find plenty of classic French pastries

BEST OF THE BEST

such as éclairs and petits fours. The café’s showcase is home to 40 different pastries, cookies and tarts, always changing with the seasons. If you’re enjoying a treat at the café, it can be accompanied by one of the many specialty coffee or teas on the menu. Plus, Le Macaron caters. Whatever your event or special occasion, Le Macaron can provide a wonderful array of sweet and savory edibles.

Whether you desire a simple sweet treat or an elaborate and elegant dessert showpiece, Le Macaron is the place to go for delights of all kinds. Located at 2705 Quance Street East, it’s a trip worth taking — and you’ll go back again and again. Le Macaron is open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and you can visit them online at lemacaronregina.com.

Le Macaron 2705 Quance Street E. Regina 306.779.CAKE (2253) lemacaronregina.com

FineLifestyles

REGINA

75

2015

EXTERIORS

SOLID BUSINESS with a Reputation for

TOP QUALITY SERVICE

By Tobie Hainstock

F

or Kurt Douglas of Regina Soffit and Eaves (RSE), the example he knew as a child had a profound effect on his adult life. “My dad built houses,” he recalls. “I guess I just grew up around it.”

HoW it all Began Although he spent many years in a different career, Kurt’s interest in the construction industry remained. In 1997, he and his wife, Ronna, decided to open their own business. By embarking on a company that specialized in soffits and

76

FineLifestyles

REGINA

eavestroughing, the Douglas’ were able to develop a dedicated clientele which secured their position among out of town competition.

The business expanded its services, and in 2009, RSE opened up a decking and railing department. They are now a registered Duradek dealer for which they offer installation services, as well as aluminum picket railing and PVC composite decking.

RSE’s careful attention to detail and courteous customer service became

BEST OF THE BEST

known throughout the Regina area and beyond. As their reputation for excellence grew, so did the business. In January 2014, RSE moved to their new location which houses more than 50 staff members along with their many services. tHe BeSt in ProduCtS and SerViCeS Exteriors is their area of expertise and RSE has become well known among all top builders in the area for both residential and commercial builds. Whether working on a restaurant, large condominium, hospital

or single family home, RSE puts the same amount of care and workmanship into what they do every day.

Over the years, RSE has served many satisfied clients by offering a variety of services such as soffit and fascia repair, eavestrough and downpipe repair, garage door cladding, attic ventilation, siding supply and installation (vinyl and cement fibre board) and siding repair. “Our full time service department will fix anything we come across. “In fact, we even do service calls on jobs that were initially done by someone else,” comments Kurt.

When working with materials, many believe you are only as good as the product you use. RSE is pleased to work

with supply companies that are reputable and offer solid manufacturer warrantees.

Safety and training Come firSt No matter the size of the job, safety and up-to-date training is a top priority for everyone on the team. Kurt explains all RSE staff is certified in their specified fields. With certified trainers and safety officers on staff, the team receives a great deal of in-house training, including safety orientation and regular procedural updates. RSE started its own detailed safety program years before the industry introduced one.

Quality iS Priority Delivering high-end work to their

BEST OF THE BEST

customers is extremely important to everyone at RSE. This attitude is what has built their reputation to its current level. “Good quality companies are successful because of the service they give,” Kurt notes. “The key is having good quality professionals working for you, respectable young men and women who are team players.” Kurt is grateful for the team he has and proud of the service they provide.

TOP & RIGHT Photos Calvin Fehr

Regina Soffit & Eaves 302 Solomon Drive Regina 306.949.1788 www.rseregina.com

FineLifestyles

REGINA

77

2015

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

Fun and Fitness the Whole Family

WILL F L I P F O R

By Melanie Furlong Photos Calvin Fehr

H

ave you ever felt like your kids have so much energy they’re ready to bounce off the walls? Why not take them to Boomers Air Park and actually watch them do it? You can join them too!

Regina’s only indoor trampoline park located in Emerald Park features wall-towall trampolines. The walls themselves are trampolines and kids, teenagers and adults bounce off every surface, laughing and squealing with excitement. It’s a unique facility in that it allows physical activity and entertainment to be one and

78

FineLifestyles

REGINA

the same. Boomers Air Park president and chief executive officer Randy Johnson says, “It’s the ideal place to exert some energy with friends and family.”

Trampolining is great for your health, as well. You can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour while jumping on trampolines.

It’s therapeutic because it improves your sense of balance and coordination, increases oxygen capacity, strengthens the heart, improves circulation and tones muscles. It’s also a low-impact exercise that’s gentle on joints.

BEST OF THE BEST

When customers leave Boomers Air Park they are tired, sweaty — and happy.

This applies to all ages, although it’s not uncommon to hear little ones crying because they simply don’t want to leave.

Who would want to when every visit to Boomers Air Park feels like a party?

The 12,500 sq. ft. converted warehouse is unique to any other trampoline park in the country because of its fabulous atmosphere. Black lights, flourescent carpets, great music and a laser light show are just some of the features that make Boomers Air Park so much fun.

Gareth Bawden tweeted, “Boomers Air Park is the place to go for a lot of fun and a lot of exercise!”

Danielle Heidt writes, “I can’t thank you enough for such a great party. You have outstanding staff which makes all the difference in the world. We will definitely come back again.”

Many parents who bring their kids for the first time head upstairs to watch.

Then they come back down to ask if they can jump too. “They get into the tunes and have a great time,” says Johnson.

Invariably, the parents leave dripping in sweat with smiles on their faces, saying they never realized how much fun trampolining was.

Boomers Air Park strives to keep the facility evolving; over the winter they made some changes that provide more jumping space for walk-ins. “We’ve increased the overall capacity,” says Johnson. “This way, if people are visiting from out of town and want to drop in, we are able to accommodate them.”

They’ve also created a dedicated preschooler area, offering little ones a quieter and safer place to jump at all times. This is in addition to their Toddler Time sessions from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday.

Besides planning exciting major upgrades for fall 2015, Boomers Air Park has some special programming on the way. “We have several special events planned to offer our clients great deals and great times,” says Johnson.

With a few party rooms on site, as well as a food court and a viewing lounge, Boomers Air Park is ideal for birthday parties. The complex is also great for corporate events, wedding parties, clubs, social groups and families looking to get active and have some fun. Come in and check it out!

Boomers Air Park 34 Great Plains Road Emerald Park Regina, 306.757.2500 jump@boomersairpark.com www.boomersairpark.com

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

79

2015

FITNESS CENTRE

Taking You to NEW FITNESS HEIGHTS

By Melanie Furlong Photos Calvin Fehr

S

isters Kim Fleischhaker and Aimee Flegel have always been interested in keeping fit and working out.

Fleischhaker says she tried working out in many different places over the years.

Although her gyms had lots of weights and machines and even group classes, she didn’t feel committed to her fitness training. In 2009, she and Flegel started working out at CrossFit Regina. “We both loved it immediately,” says Fleischhaker.

“The workouts were completely different

80

FineLifestyles

REGINA

every time and the people around us were very encouraging. They made us feel welcome and supported.”

In 2012, the owners of CrossFit Regina had to move out of province. Fleischhaker, Flegel and her husband, Keenan, decided to take over the business — and they haven’t looked back since.

cardio and weightlifting. Although CrossFit is widely known as the principal strength and conditioning program for many police academies, military special operations units, and hundreds of other elite and professional athletes worldwide, the workouts can be adapted by scaling down the weight and movements so you can start anywhere.

“The greatest thing about CrossFit is it’s for everyone from beginners to elite athletes,” says Fleischhaker. Workouts are an excellent balance of stretching,

CrossFit Regina is the first and largest CrossFit gym in the city. The 9,000 sq. ft. facility they have occupied since February offers personal training in small

BEST OF THE BEST

group settings for children from age five to adults into their 70s and beyond. In its large open space, complete with change rooms and showers, members make use of kettlebells, pull-up rigs, barbells, medicine balls, sleds and tires in various CrossFit challenges. “CrossFit has such a variety of workouts,” says Fleischhaker.

“You’re always challenged. But you do repeat a workout every few months to see your progress.”

Congratulations to CrossFit Regina's own David Samayoa, who has qualified for the Pan Am Games and Worlds in weightlifting.

While they offer CrossFit classes for kids, teens and adults, there is also a swim club and specialty classes for yoga, Olympic weightlifting, kettlebell and CrossFit competitors. Although CrossFit makes a great fitness workout, it is also called the sport of fitness. Many members go out for local and regional competitions and the gym has a large competitive team.

CrossFit Regina is the only CrossFit gym in the city to send athletes to regionals and has sent a team to the CrossFit Games in Carson, California.

Supportive coaches at CrossFit Regina focus on form and technique to help participants achieve their goals.

Fleischhaker says, “We really appreciate the hard work of our coaches. They are fantastic. They will have you do things at your level and you’ll see results quickly.

You end up doing things you never thought you could do.”

As the membership continues to grow, CrossFit Regina is offering more personal training and training for sports teams.

They’ve started a nutrition program and have also brought in a reflexologist to operate out of one their offices.

They’re also planning to bring in a massage therapist.

Come into CrossFit Regina and try a free workout. If you decide to join, you’ll do a one-time foundations class to hone your skills and learn safe practices. Then you can get a monthly membership and start training!

CrossFit Regina 1681 D McDonald St. Regina 306.527.2050 info@crossfitregina.com crossfitregina.com

L-R Kim Fleischhaker, Aimee Flegel, Keenan Flegel

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

81

2015

FOOTWEAR

A FLAIR FOR

FOOTWEAR

By Tonya Lambert Photos Heather Fritz Models Steph Ardel, Charmaine Bristow, Ellen Tyminski and Debbie Rempel courtesy of Masala Model & Talent and School of Personal Development.

“Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.”

—Marilyn Monroe

82

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

V

isit Traxx Footwear to experience Saskatchewan’s largest and most luxurious collection of footwear. The selection of shoes ranges from sexy sling-backs and sparkly stilettos to fashionable flats and sturdy sneakers.

Traxx has an unparalleled selection that you must see to believe!

Located in the Grosvenor Park Shopping Centre on 8th Street in Saskatoon, Traxx, the largest shoe store in Western Canada, encompasses 9,000 sq. ft. of style, sophistication and shoe shopping satisfaction. Leisurely browse, then settle into a comfortable seat while slipping on fabulous selections from the more than 120 brands featured in store.

Ladies, no matter your preferences you will find comfortable shoes available in numerous contemporary colours. Guys, check out the display of dashingly debonair dress shoes by Lloyd crafted from amazing German leather. Watch for new fall fashions appearing in store soon; you are in for an overload of the senses due to a tantalizing selection of coloured leathers in a wide variety of styles (including many athletic calf boot options).

In addition to a fantastic array of footwear, Traxx also provides fabulous finds in handbags, belts, socks, Oakley sunglasses and other fun accessories.

This unique selection of funky and fashion-forward accessories is just what you need to transform an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.

Great shoes are only a short trip away, or take advantage of convenient, risk-free online shopping through www.traxxfootwear.ca.

Need help finding the ideal pair of shoes?

The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Traxx Footwear is just as passionate about finding you the right shoes as you are. Their energy, excitement and enthusiasm are evident the moment you walk through the doors.

Unable to make it in to the store? Don’t worry, shop online at www.traxxfootwear. ca and your favourite styles will arrive on your doorstep promptly.

Follow Traxx Footwear on Facebook to learn about new arrivals, super savings and upcoming events.

Traxx hosts special events such as VIP shopping experiences. A shopping experience can be arranged for an individual or group to have extra special one-on-one attention — this is a perfect gift for your mom, wife or a special bride-to-be.

Traxx… where they have a flair for footwear!

Traxx Footwear #23 2105 8th Street E Grosvenor Park Shopping Centre Saskatoon 306.956.2272 1.866.956.2272 www.traxxfootwear.ca /traxxfootwear |

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

83

2015

FOUNDATIONS

Maintain Your Foundation Protect Your Investment In loving memory of our dear friend and colleague, Lester LaFayette.

Photos Calvin Fehr

“I cannot believe the size of the crack in my basement. I only bought this house five years ago and it was fine.”

T

his is a typical comment the folks at AAA Solid Foundation hear almost daily.

The soil conditions in Regina are not conducive to high levels of precipitation. Within the last five years, residents of the Queen City have been bombarded with record snowfall, record dryness and record precipitation. All of these factors combine to form a negative combination of elements detrimental to basement foundations. As a result, damage is

84

FineLifestyles

REGINA

occurring to foundations, and repairs are becoming a necessity to maintain structural integrity.

“The subgrade soils consist of highly plastic, potentially active clay that will undergo volume changes when water content increases. These volume changes, combined with lateral soil pressures and aging, will exert enough force to cause inward movement and cracking in foundation walls,” states Jim Markatos from DKM Engineering.

As a result, AAA Solid Foundation has developed numerous techniques suited to your specific problems. Whether your basement needs bracing, interior or exterior waterproofing, a concrete knee wall, or a sump pit and pump, they have a solution.

BEST OF THE BEST

AFTER

The AAA Solid Foundation Team

BEFORE

In the foundation repair business for more than 20 years, AAA has built a business on being a reputable company that stands behind their work. Having an A-Plus rating with the Better Business Bureau of Saskatchewan, and contracting professional engineers such as Jim Markatos from DKM Engineering for every structural job they undertake, AAA Solid Foundation has developed a standard for basement repair second to none.

Adding to their accreditation, AAA Solid Foundation has been awarded The Consumers Choice Award for Excellence in Basement Repair the past three years in a row (2013-2015).

Owners Steve Bauer and Dale Obleman implement standards they feel surpass the industry. Dale Obleman states, “Do your homework; get the right contractor the first time.” Bauer concurs, “We are the experts; every week we see the ‘weekend warrior’ attempting to do what we do, and I say either something will get broken or someone will get hurt or both.”

AAA Solid Foundation has the experts who can suggest many different remedies to your particular basement problem.

They encourage their customers to research, ask questions and visit their website which showcases videos on all the repair packages offered. They firmly believe having a structurally

BEST OF THE BEST

BEFORE

sound, moisture-free basement will be a dominant factor in the resale of your home. Also, a dry basement is a useable basement, which affords peace of mind.

In their experience, the team at AAA recommends an engineer or basement expert to evaluate the foundation of your home, especially if there is a plan to refinish or remodel. Renovations are extremely costly, but having to demolish a fresh renovation to fix basement structural problems is a “budget buster.”

AAA SOLID FOUNDATION PO Box 37052, Regina 306.352.1826 stevebauer@sasktel.net

FineLifestyles

REGINA

85

2015

FUNERAL SERVICES

Providing Guidance Through Loss

By Brook Thalgott Photos Calvin Fehr

F

or nearly two decades, Paragon Funeral Services has been helping families through the most trying and emotional time in their lives — the loss of a loved one. Locally owned and operated in Regina, Miles and Louise Ernst and their staff work every day to ease the burden facing their clients as they prepare to say goodbye to a cherished family member or friend.

“Our goal is to provide every family we serve with a comforting, compassionate

86

FineLifestyles

REGINA

experience as we guide them through honoring someone’s last wishes,” says Miles. “We recognize losing someone is a very emotional time and we want to ensure every client has the help they need to make the necessary final arrangements.” The company offers complete funeral and cremation services to Regina and area. To accommodate the increasing demand for cremation, the company established their own crematorium in 2011.

BEST OF THE BEST

Miles, Louise and the Paragon team pride themselves on offering local families attentive, skilled service that is also affordable. It’s this combination of compassion, affordability and professionalism that makes Paragon stand out from the rest. “People can be intimidated or misinformed about the cost of funeral and cremation services these days,” says Miles. “We work hard to ensure every family we serve receives the care they need for their individual

Louise and Miles Ernst

circumstances.” Whether you’re looking for a modest service or a more traditional ceremony, Paragon can help plan and fulfill your wishes.

For those looking to make plans ahead of time, Paragon offers excellent preplanning services. “Many people are choosing to make their final arrangements long before they are needed to help ease the burden on their loved ones later on,” says Miles. “Preplanning means you can choose the type of service you want, instead of leaving those decisions to someone else.” Clients can decide on where their final resting place should be and what type of service they would want, and pre-pay for all their final wishes. “Pre-planning is not a sad or morbid thing to do,” says Miles. “In fact, it’s a kind thing to do for your family and friends as it eases their burden when they are dealing with loss.”

Paragon Funeral Services’ reputation shows in the ever-increasing number of families choosing Paragon to help them through loss. Their dedication is seen throughout the planning process, including meeting with families where they are comfortable — whether at the funeral home or in the privacy of their own home. Paragon is guided by their commitment to the clients they serve, and their needs because it’s not about sales. It’s about helping families through a difficult time while honouring a loved one in the best way possible.

To learn more about how Paragon can serve your family now or in the future, call or visit them online.

Paragon Funeral Services 521 Victoria Avenue Regina 306.359.7776 paragonfuneralservices.com

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

87

2015

GARAGE CUSTOMIZATION

Creating Useful Garage Spaces & Increasing the Value of Your Home

All Within a Day

F

ine Lifestyles recently interviewed President and CEO of Superior Garage & Superior FD Coatings, Brandon Fuchs, to find out more about his thriving company.

Fine Lifestyles: How did Superior Garage become the company it is today?

Brandon Fuchs: Superior Garage started with one product not offered to the Saskatchewan market — polyaspartic floor coatings — and blossomed into an entire showroom of Superior products.

The foundation of Superior Garage’s business model is moored in credibility,

88

FineLifestyles

REGINA

trust and performance. Without these three attributes, you end up looking like another contractor promising the world. We like to promise the world and then deliver jaw-dropping results.

Saskatchewan’s construction industry is robust and flourishing, which means those who produce a worthy product and service will get the jobs and those who don’t — won’t.

FL: You mention credibility and trust have helped you build a successful company. How has that helped Superior Garage succeed?

BF: We think credibility and trust are the

BEST OF THE BEST

most important attributes to complement a Superior product/service. Recently, a number of companies have started servicing southern Saskatchewan, and we support the idea of competition because it keeps us on our toes and ensures our workmanship is top notch. Superior Garage’s installers have experience with the top four leading product suppliers and this knowledge and experience rivals and exceeds the experience of other polyaspartic finishing companies.

Furthermore, our installers are owners and have been installing for six years, so when Superior installs a polyaspartic

“The work was quick, complete and to my standards. The crew was co-operative and went above and beyond with some minor requests I made. They were friendly in their approach to me as customer. Their clean-up was excellent. I would highly recommend Superior Garage to any other customer. You will not be disappointed!”

—Bob and Pat Hornsberger

“Done as quoted on time and on budget, they were extremely diligent in making sure we knew what was going on; very happy with the finished look of our garage.”

—Brad Hoffman

floor, we know that it is perfect. Lastly, our customers do repeat business with us because we are credible and trustworthy, coming back usually for storage products and floor coatings. They know our principles are to complete the job perfectly, on time, on budget and in a professional manner.

FL: How does Superior get your price point so low?

BF: Simple economics and construction industry experience. We bulk order the best product and our professional installers make no mistakes (which wastes no product), ultimately setting the price point to beat in southern Saskatchewan.

FL: How do we know Superior is in fact superior to other companies?

BF: Independently and locally owned,

Superior Garage and Superior FD Coatings has the highest level of experience using all the major suppliers in the industry. Our experience and relationship with these suppliers is what gives Superior Garage and Superior FD Coatings the ability to charge less than our competitors while providing the best product and services to our customers.

From a consumer’s standpoint, you have to get involved with the industry, do some research, collect quotes and decide for yourself. All product specifications are online, so you can check out what each company has to offer, weigh your concerns with their products/services and then decide which contractor is the best match for you. A product isn’t going to live up to its product specifications if it is installed incorrectly, so be sure to ask a contractor what work they have completed and contact people who have already used their service. Our largest repeat customers

BEST OF THE BEST

are homebuilders in the Regina area, showing professionals enlist our services over other installers. Word of mouth — truly the best method of marketing — is how this company has flourished. Our reputation is perpetuated by accomplished work and satisfied customers.

Superior Garage is Regina’s Best of the Best in supplying your garage with the strongest concrete floor coating on the market as well as multifaceted cabinet and storage solutions that ensure the best fit for you and your garage.

Superior

GARAGE G A R AG E Superior FD Coatings 907 Winnipeg Street Regina 306.205.7900 info@superiorgarage.ca www.sfdcoatings.com

FineLifestyles

REGINA

89

2015

HOME DECOR

U

pon entering this serene, warm boutique, you are charmed by the rustic appeal. Mabel and Martha’s Vintage Style Decor is filled with exquisite vintage style décor, artwork, furniture and much more. This is the ideal place to find that special piece you’ve been looking for.

The store is owned and operated by Dianna Nelson and Barb Broda (aka Mabel and Martha), two long-time friends who have a similar mindset when it comes to home décor. “Decorating like this has always been our passion,” says Nelson. “It’s very much who we are.”

These ladies are passionate and enthusiastic about their business. “We change the items we carry from season to season. It’s so much fun to decorate the store,” comments Nelson. No matter what the season, Mabel and Martha’s always has a wide selection of quality vintage style and antique pieces.

A Little Touch of

VINTAGE for You and Your

HOME

“People sometimes want that little touch of vintage in their home,” states Broda.

“One or two unique pieces can really warm the place up.” Vintage pieces can fit into anyone’s home no matter what style of home you have, she adds. “We can show you how to fit vintage in so you get

By Tobie Hainstock Photos DeAnne Bell

90

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

to keep Grandma’s piece. It might not look the way it did when she had it; maybe it does or maybe it’s been repainted to fit your home. Either way, you get to keep that heirloom and enjoy it.”

Mabel and Martha’s offers a range of highly talented custom furniture builders and vintage suppliers from across North America. A great deal of vintage furniture is old furniture that’s been restored or made from reclaimed wood. Or, some pieces can be new, but made to look old.

The ladies also source out items. They will even purchase old furniture you have at home and refurbish it into something spectacular! When looking to special order that stunning custom piece, look no further. This talented pair will create a superb piece of art.

Among the many delights you will find in the store are the vintage wedding décor items. “The vintage/rustic look is very popular among brides,” adds Nelson. Mabel and Martha’s also carries a selection of ladies’ fashions. They are top quality, comfortable, fashionable and well suited for almost any occasion. A dressing room is available to make sure your purchase fits just right. Looking for accessories? Stunning vintage style jewelry, scarves, and handbags in leather or recycled canvas will help complete your look.

How about this for fun? Nelson and Broda will again offer painting classes in the fall, taking place in the store on Sundays. During the classes, as with all their projects, the ladies use CeCe Caldwell’s chalk and clay-based paints.

These are eco-friendly, non-toxic paints that are even safe around children and pregnant mothers. Working with CeCe Caldwell’s paint is easy and fun. No sanding, stripping or priming is required; just clean it, paint it and enjoy a lovely, clean look.

Open since November 2013, Mabel and Martha’s Vintage Style Decor is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are always excited to show you their stunning collection of precious items.

Mabel and Martha’s Vintage Style Decor 1916 Dewdney Ave., Regina 306.569.9882

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

91

2015

HOTEL

To Infinity

AND

BEYOND!

Have you ever stayed at a hotel during a vacation or road trip and thought, “Is this it?” At d3h Hotels, they do a great job of pairing their hotels with local attractions and activities to help you enjoy Regina as a whole.

92

FineLifestyles

REGINA

d

3h Hotels owns and operates 13 hotels, with four located within Regina. On the east side of the city, there is a HomeSuites and a Days Inn Regina. On the west side, near the Regina International Airport, is the Home Inn & Suites Regina Airport and a Days Inn Regina Airport West. These hotels work together to provide the best accommodations, as well as the best experiences in Regina. They do this by partnering with local tourism councils as well as tourist attractions to both help the tourism sector and create lasting memories.

BEST OF THE BEST

The hotels begin by creating packages that excite their guests. The packages range from a ladies’ weekend away shopping trips, a pizza party night in your hotel room or a trip to the RCMP Heritage Centre. By creating these packages, the hotels have found that it was a great way to draw people into Regina that may have not come otherwise.

On top of the fantastic packages are theme rooms that make guests believe they are no longer in a hotel, but rather in outer space or even at a sporting event.

Located in the Days Inn Regina Airport West and the Days Inn Regina East locations are Green and White football rooms, where you can show off your football pride. The walls are covered with fans cheering, stacks of footballs and action shots of a football game happening right in front of you! You can kick back and relax on the theatre style couches or hang out in the kids’ bedroom with bunk beds, a flat screen TV and gaming station.

The Saskatchewan Science Centre and the new Home Inn & Suites – Regina Airport have partnered to create an “Experience Science” theme room within the hotel. The theme room features an underwater theme living room with a queen pull-out sectional, fish tank coffee table and colourful wall displays.

Parents can escape to their own room, which features a king size bed with a six-foot tall glowing moon headboard, a telescope to star gaze and twinkling stars on the walls. Go deep underground to the children’s own separate room, which has twin bunk beds with a leaf ceiling and roots on the walls, as well as a flat screen TV and a gaming station.

The Saskatchewan Science Centre, excited about the partnership, graciously supplied fun, interactive and educational wall panels for each theme to keep children and adults occupied. “d3h Hotels has been a fantastic partner for us. Their Experience Science room is not only a ton of fun for families who stay there, but a great bite-sized taste of the Saskatchewan Science Centre too!” explains Ryan Holata, director of Business Development and Visitor Services from the Saskatchewan Science Centre.

About d3h Based in Saskatoon, d3h Hotels is a hotel management company that owns and operates 12 hotels across Western Canada, including its new and upcoming build of Home Inn & Suites Saskatoon South in 2015. Over the past 15 years, d3h Hotels has gained extensive knowledge and experience in the design and construction of hotels. The company recently celebrated its 12th build, pushing this young management company to retain the honour of being the largest franchisee of Days Inns in Canada.

Did You Know?

Hotels have to pay commissions of up to 20 per cent every time guests book through an online travel agent, such as Expedia or Travelocity. d3h Hotels would rather pay local travel agents or give the savings back to the person booking. They would love for you to experience the d3h difference by using the coupon below to reap savings for yourself by calling the hotel directly and booking with them. They love talking to people!

BOOK AT ANY D3H HOTEL AND RECEIVE

10our best

$

For more information about d3h, please visit www.d3h.ca. d3h hotels www.d3h.ca

off

available rate BOOK DIRECT & SAVE

OFFER EXPIRES DECEMBER 31 , 2016. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNTS. GO TO WWW.D3H.C A TO SEE ALL PARTICIPATING HOTELS.

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

93

2015

KITCHEN CABINETS

Excellence in Millwork that’s Unique to Saskatchewan

By Tori Stafford Photos DeAnne Bell

T

he secrets behind the success of Cobb Cabinets are the very values the business is built on: precise standards, exemplary skills and a commitment to quality.

One of the leading millwork companies in the province, Cobb Cabinets boasts a team of 25 highly-skilled individuals, each with their own areas of expertise. From design to installation, the talents, knowledge and dedication of the Cobb Cabinet team translate into exceptional custom millwork on each and every project. Whether it’s a complete custom dream kitchen, an intricate staircase and handrail to breathe new life into a foyer, or a warm and stately bathroom vanity for a heritage home, the team at Cobb Cabinets offer more than 200 years of combined experience evident in the final product.

“In millwork, it’s all about precision,” says owner Mike Zimmerman, noting a number of his team are second or third generation tradesmen with invaluable expertise.

“We’ve got a really good crew. We do have state of the art technology here to help to speed things up, but what we resolve to mostly is going back to the old ways to make sure the job is done right.”

The dedication at Cobb Cabinets is not solely limited to meticulous craftsmanship. In addition to using only the very best quality products and materials, Cobb Cabinets is committed to using the most environmentally and health friendly products whenever possible. The company made the switch from products that use chemical propellants to those that are air-propelled, and uses formaldehydefree sheet goods and finishing products

94

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

endorsed by the Forest Stewardship Council as much as possible.

In an attempt to decrease their carbon footprint even further, Cobb Cabinets works to reverse any negative impact possible with a unique program. For every kitchen they sell, Cobb Cabinets plants twice as many trees as were used to create the project. “We try to be as environmentally friendly as possible, but, in this industry, there are some things you just can’t avoid,” Zimmerman expresses.

“Especially because the work we do is custom work, you just can’t get away from using wood. The only way to help that is to give back by planting double the amount.”

Proudly rooted in Saskatchewan for more than 40 years, Cobb Cabinets serves clients in Regina and throughout the province, offering personalized service and unsurpassed quality and craftsmanship.

With that in mind, Cobb Cabinets sources as many products and materials right here in the province as they possibly can, Zimmerman explains.

“Unless we’re unable to get it through a company in Saskatchewan, we only source products in-province,” he says, adding he can only think of two products they source internationally, both of which are exclusively available at Cobb Cabinets.

BEST OF THE BEST

Above all else, the team at Cobb Cabinets work tirelessly to ensure they complete every custom project with exacting standards and impeccable craftsmanship, a point of pride for Zimmerman and everyone on his team.

“At the end of the day, it is all of the little things that matter,” he says.

“Everything we do is custom and everything we do is in-house, using the best materials we can get.”

Cobb Cabinets 121 Dewdney Ave. E, Regina 306.347.7266 www.cobbcabinets.com

FineLifestyles

REGINA

95

2015

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

Get Inspired to Create Your Dream Outdoor Living Space

By Melanie Furlong Photos courtesy The Rusty Shovel

I

f you’re dreaming of a backyard where you can entertain your friends, relax and enjoy your family, but don’t know where to start, visit The Rusty Shovel Landscape Shop and spark your imagination. This season, the store will offer clients even more possibilities; they are now partnering with North America’s largest supplier of hardscape products, Belgard Hardscapes. New to western Canada, Belgard has established manufacturing capabilities from Manitoba through to British Columbia.

The Rusty Shovel is co-owned by Sean Stefan and his wife, Katlyn. They recently took over from Stefan’s uncle, Steve

96

FineLifestyles

REGINA

Kesslering, who co-founded the company.

Stefan says they are excited about Belgard’s innovation, product line and selection. Their beautiful, high-quality materials — which all have transferrable, lifetime warranties — will give clients much more choice in walkways, driveways, pool decks, patios and retaining walls and steps.

In particular, The Rusty Shovel’s clients will be interested in Belgard’s Elements line. This series of pre-fabricated, modular products for outdoor living includes water features, fireplaces, fire pits, wood boxes, pizza ovens and outdoor kitchens, all of which make great focal points for your outdoor living space.

“The key foundations to hardscapes are colours, textures and shapes,” says Stefan. “Belgard has a variety of different products that suit modern, traditional and contemporary styles. There’s a product and colouring to complement your interior colours and make your indoor and outdoor styles work in unison.”

Conveniently, clients can see exactly how their home would look using Belgard’s products with their product visualizers. “We can take a photo of a house,” says Stefan, “then overlay the product on the walkway or driveway to give homeowners an idea of what it would look like against their house.”

BEST OF THE BEST

The Rusty Shovel also offers onsite consultations with their landscape designers who will talk to clients about the style and functionality they want and then come up with either a simple sketch for their outdoor space or a 2-D or 3-D computerized design so they can visualize the property.

Helping clients reach their end goal is the most fulfilling part of Stefan’s job.

The store, which is a supplier to both professional contractors and “DIYers,” takes pride in offering clients the quality advice and products they need to make their visions a reality. “We give DIYers the support and know-how to do things themselves,” he says. “People always tell me how helpful my staff members are because they go the extra mile and really make sure people know what they’re getting into at the beginning of a project.”

The Rusty Shovel’s customer support starts at the design stage and is carried through pricing, construction and completion. “We love it when our customers come back to us with photos and show us what we helped them accomplish,” says Stefan. “It’s our biggest satisfaction.”

BOTTOM L–R Sean Stefan and Steve Kesslering

The Rusty Shovel Landscape Shop 680 Angus Street, Regina 306.757.2227 info@therustyshovel.ca www.therustyshovel.ca

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

97

2015

LEARNING

Bringing a Different Perspective to After-School Tutoring

O

xford Learning, Canada’s oldest after-school supplemental education p r o v i d e r, has been operating in Regina since 2000.

Centre director Janet Klassen decided this would provide an important service for students while bringing a unique perspective to the field of tutoring. As a former teacher, Klassen understands the need to help students develop learning skills and reading comprehension. A passion for helping children build their confidence and enthusiasm for learning has kept Oxford Learning Regina thriving for 15 years. a diFFErEnT aPProaCH To TuTorinG Oxford Learning’s

98

FineLifestyles

REGINA

programs are founded on the science of cognitive development. Rather than simply teaching kids to overcome a problem in academics, Oxford Learning gets to the root of the problem, helping students improve their overall learning abilities and developing active minds.

The result? Students develop learning strategies that transfer to other subjects and become lifelong learning skills. noT MEMoriZaTion‚ BuT CoMPrEHEnSion Rather than relying heavily on memorization, Oxford Learning takes a different approach — one that shifts the focus from WHAT a child is learning to HOW a child is learning. This way, children build better thinking and learning skills required for long-term academic success.

BEST OF THE BEST

Programs are chosen based on the results of an in depth dynamic assessment that not only shows what children know academically, but also how they learn.

The Oxford teaching system stresses comprehension and understanding — focusing on the underlying cognitive learning skills along with math, reading and other school subjects.

From the very first class, students are shown new ways to approach learning and thinking, and they are taught study skills they can start implementing right away in school, in every class.

ProGraMS For STudEnTS oF all aGES Oxford Learning offers various programs for students from

the age of three through to college and university. Each program is customized to the student’s unique learning needs, so he/ she gets exactly the right kind of support.

For developing strong reading skills before Grade 1, Oxford Learning’s Little Readers Academy (for children ages three to six) and R.E.A.D. Elite (for four to six year olds) help children develop strong foundations in reading, writing, and math while emphasizing school readiness skills such as listening and communicating.

Oxford’s Beyond Tutoring program (for students in Grades 1 to 8) helps students improve their academic comprehension and develop strong thinking, learning and study skills they can rely on in every school subject for years to come.

For high school students, the Advantage High School Success program fine-tunes organizational and study skills to help teens manage time, stay on top of homework and get the grades that they need for higher education.

For students who need to write U.S. college entrance exams, the GPA 5.0 SAT and ACT courses help students prepare for the tests and get the high scores necessary to be accepted into American colleges.

A specialized curriculum of French programs (for students age four to Grade 12) is available for all levels of French language proficiency. The preschool development program, R.E.A.D. Elite, is another option for students just beginning French programs.

Proudly Canadian Oxford Learning is an active participant in communities across Canada, supporting students and their families both inside and outside the classroom. They offer exclusively Canadian-developed curriculum and contribute to the diverse Canadian workforce.

Oxford Learning is proud to help students realize their dreams through better grades, improved confidence and brighter futures.

Oxford Learning 203-2595 Quance St E., Regina 306.790.2000 regina@oxfordlearning.com ABOVE L–R Mano Young & Shelley Jacobs, education directors; Janet Klassen, owner/director BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

99

2015

MEDICAL ESTHETICS

Non-Surgical, Affordable, Skin Solutions From a Clinic You Can Trust

By Henny Buffinga Photos DeAnne Bell L–R Meranda Kokoski and Sophie Maroudis

100

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

W

ith a warm and welcoming environment greeting every guest upon arrival, Studio Skin Restoration is the perfect place to reveal the true brilliance of your skin, with treatments that are individualized to the unique needs of each client.

Studio Skin offers Painless Laser Hair Removal, HydraFacials, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and accent treatments at affordable prices. “We wanted to make these treatments accessible for everyone,” says Meranda Kokoski, clinic manager.

Following a longtime passion, Marilio Loewen opened Studio Skin in August 2011. Kokoski, sharing that same passion and excited to join the field of medical aesthetics after years as an advanced esthetician, joined her to develop the studio to its full potential. In 2012, Sophie Maroudis entered the industry and rounded out their team.

Their small clinic offers privacy and personal care for clients. “When you’re dealing with the things we help with, comfort is a huge factor,” says Kokoski.

“We really form a bond with our clients and feel a lot of them return because of the comfort level here, not to mention the professionalism and knowledge our staff has about our services.”

Studio Skin offers Painless Laser Hair Removal. The Soprano XL is designed for all skin types and follows the hair to the root for a permanent result. The cooling

mechanism in the hand piece cools the client’s skin to create a comfortable, painless experience.

collagen and elastin growth, leaving wrinkles looking smoother and skin feeling tighter.

Studio Skin also offers the HydraFacial, a revolutionary skin resurfacing technology for all skin types. It cleanses, exfoliates and extracts whiteheads, blackheads and impurities, then hydrates and moisturizes the skin. It has comparable results to other ablative skin resurfacing methods, but with no discomfort, downtime or irritation.

“This is the most beneficial facial you can get,” says Kokoski. “You can see instant results with the HydraFacial because it’s removing everything out from under your epidermis as well as the surface.”

Looking for a comfortable way to tone and tighten your skin? At Studio Skin, the accent treatment uses radio frequency technology to treat wrinkles, lax skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite by stimulating healthy collagen and elastin growth.

IPL is a treatment that is great for hyperpigmentation, including sun spots, age spots, melasma, freckles and superficial veins. This pulsed light is absorbed into the targeted area without damaging the surrounding healthy skin.

As an all-round amazing treatment for skin rejuvenation, the IPL stimulates

BEST OF THE BEST

The team at Studio Skin understands the importance of looking good and feeling great. “We want people to know we specialize in skin services that uncover the true beauty of your skin, from the inside and out,” says Kokoski. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see how happy our clients are when they leave the Studio. That’s why we got into this industry.”

Studio Skin Restoration 1830 Victoria Avenue East, Regina 306.790.1019 www.studioskin.ca

FineLifestyles

REGINA

101

2015

MOBILE CURBSIDE BIN CLEANING

Taking Your Garbage and Recycling Bins to the Cleaners Photos Michael Lasko

V

cleaning unit, they arrive at a customer’s home after their curbside bin has been emptied and, simply put, wash the receptacle, keeping it clean and sanitary.

The concept is new — so new that many people aren’t even aware of it or looking for it. So, what does VIP Bin Cleaning actually do? Using a specifically built

How they clean the bin is very important.

Their equipment uses its own onboard water supply that continually recycles the cleaning water. This saves water, using 90 per cent less than you would by doing it yourself with a garden hose or conventional power washer. There is no mess left behind; everything is self-contained. It also means nothing goes into the catch basins, keeping

IP Bin Cleaning got its start in the United Kingdom in 1993.

Since then, the company has expanded to Canada, United States, Poland, Australia, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. VIP arrived in Regina in 2013, providing city residents with its unique services. Every day, more customers are discovering VIP Bin Cleaning and those who use the service love it.

102

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

OPPOSITE PAGE Curtis Sylvestre, service manager

contaminated dirty water and cleaners out of our lakes, rivers, streams and groundwater.

VIP Bin Cleaning’s customers have a clean, deodorized and sanitized bin that can be kept closer to the house or even in the garage. Not only are the bins cleaned — they’re left with a fresh cherry scent that lasts about a month.

The cleaner used by VIP Bin Cleaning is fully biodegradable and phosphate free.

Many commonly used cleaners contain degreasers, phosphates, bleach and other chemicals that are barred under current bylaws from entering our catch basins. This doesn’t even consider what is in the bin to begin with. VIP Bin Cleaning has come across many items inside garbage bins including paint, pesticides, petroleum products, pet waste and more. VIP’s goal is to avoid having these items end up in our precious lakes, rivers, streams and groundwater.

Customer reaction to VIP Bin Cleaning has been overwhelmingly positive.

When out in a neighbourhood, VIP gets everything from curious looks to a barrage of questions. Currently, many homeowners bag their garbage and put it into their bins. This is not environmentally friendly and it’s likely that Regina will soon follow other municipalities in banning the use of plastic bags in garbage and recycling bins. Many bins are already in need of a good cleaning, and the movement away from using plastic bags means many more bins require cleaning.

Annual programs begin at $90 for the season. Give VIP Bin Cleaning a call today. You’ll be pleased with the results.

VIP Bin Cleaning Regina 306.543.VIP1 (8471) vipbin@accesscomm.ca www.vipbincleaning.ca

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

103

2015

OIL & MAINTENANCE SERVICE

Thanks for voting Mr. Lube “Best Oil Change” If only there was a category for “Best Customer”

Locally owned and operated.

Our technicians are 100% ASE and TIA certified.

®

No appointment necessary. Open 7 days a week.

190 Albert St. N • 306-791-7861 4865 Harbour Landing Dr. • 306-791-7863

681 University Park Dr. • 306-791-7862 @mrlube

mrlube.com

BEST OF THE BEST

MrLubeCanada

Building a Business and Strengthening a Community:

T

Mr. Lube in Regina

im and Sandra Myers have been a part of the Mr. Lube Franchisee family for 18 years. After settling in Regina, they opened the doors to their first Mr. Lube location in 2007, knowing that they wanted to provide the community with more than just the best place to get an oil change. Their vision was to bring the Mr. Lube brand, ranked as Canada’s No. 1 oil change provider, to Regina – offering second to none service and convenience. They were also determined to make a difference in the community in which they operate.

Now, in 2015, the Myers family proudly own three convenient locations at 190 Albert Street N., 681 University Park Drive E. and in Grasslands at 4865 Harbour Landing Drive South. They have formed exciting partnerships and sponsorships over the years that have helped them stay connected and focused on what matters to their customers and community.

“We knew that the Mr. Lube brand, products and services would provide our customers with a name that they can trust and our business has flourished as a result,” says Tim Myers. “This growth has enabled us to give back to our community.”

From sports to the arts, Mr. Lube extends impressive community support in Regina.

Through Mr. Lube, the Myers’ family vision to contribute to Regina has truly come to life. Mr. Lube’s long list of community contributions in Regina includes a Saskatchewan Roughrider

partnership, sponsorships with the Regina Pats, University of Regina Rams, Regina Thunder, Regina Red Sox, Regina Symphony Orchestra, Saskatchewan Music Festival Association and the Saskatchewan Science Centre. Each year, they also raise money for the Regina MS Society and Regina Big Brothers.

Mr. Lube customers enjoy more than just an oil change. In fact, the range of services, expertise and value extended to customers is unmatched.

Mr. Lube locations are open seven days a week and offer a wide range of services including warranty-approved oil changes and maintenance fluid services, tire rotations and changeovers, filter replacements, batteries, serpentine belts, wiper blades, windshield chip repair, fuel system cleaning, headlight restoration and engine flush – all with no appointment necessary. All Mr. Lube technicians complete the ASE certificate program, the highest standard in the field, at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

technicians have access to an electronic owner’s manual (EOM), which provides personalized tracking and notifications for your vehicle care. The EOM allows Mr. Lube technicians to determine and cater services according to your car’s specific needs based on make, model, manufacturer and year.

For customers, this means full trust that the services offered are actual requirements and we can keep you on your maintenance warranty schedule right at Mr. Lube.

We’re proud to live and work in Regina at Mr. Lube.

As local owners and operators, Sandra and Tim Myers can often be found at one of their three locations. Their strong community ties and hands-on approach to their business make them a truly unique service provider for much more than just oil changes.

“We are so proud to live and work in Regina,” says Sandra. “To our customers, thank you and we look forward to seeing you at your next visit.”

In addition to their impressive list of services and highly qualified team, all Mr. Lube

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

105

2015

ONLINE MARKETING

Trustedregina.com

Protecting Consumers & Promoting Business in the Community Photos Lisa Landrie ABOVE Sara Wheelwright, Solange Bosse and Leanna Keyes

106

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

A

re you a consumer looking for reputable businesses?

Are you a business owner who prioritizes customers?

Are you confused about where and how to advertise?

Consumers and local companies alike can TRUST S&E Trusted Online Directories. This Saskatchewan company was founded in 2010 by Sara Wheelwright. The initial idea came as she struggled as an immigrant; later she noticed a widening gap between business and consumers.

Trustedregina.com is now the most used Regina online directory after just three years in operation. It lists a limited number of professionals, retailers, contractors and service providers in 40 categories. Sixty-five per cent of visitors come from Regina, so it definitely appeals to local buyers who are savvy shoppers.

The all-woman team works diligently to protect consumers from bad experiences, while simultaneously promoting and educating the TRUSTED partners.

In 2015, the Regina directory celebrated three years. Companies who apply must pass a verification process and sign an annual contract to uphold five Trusted Guarantees. The partners are held accountable; they are even randomly “mystery shopped” to ensure standards are maintained. Failing to live up to obligations results in having the Trusted membership revoked. When Trusted gives the “THUMBS UP” to a business, it means something!

recipients of their time, donations and sponsorships. Trusted also helps individuals. Most recently, Sara learned about the plight of Janet Braden, a Saskatchewan mother who was ripped off by a disreputable contractor. Twenty-two Trusted partners across Saskatchewan, including Adrenaline Roofing and CNG Stone in Regina, literally stepped up to put Janet’s home back together for FREE! You can put your trust in Trustedregina. com.

S & E Trusted Online Directories Inc Trustedregina.com 1307 Ottawa Street Regina 306.244.4150 sara@trustedCanada.com

“Trusted is a great group of people. Thank God for Sara and her amazing team.”

—Rachelle, Ideal Journey, Trusted Regina Health & Wellness coaches Find local businesses you can trust

The Smart & Simple Choice.

2014 WINNER Marketing

Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

Presented by

TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve just moved to Saskatchewan from Alberta and I bought a fixer-upper. Having no contacts here, I knew that I would be taking a gamble on which tradespeople I used, so I’m very happy to have found your website. Thank you so much.”

— Claire

“I don’t know where I would be without the Trusted community. I can’t thank you enough for your generosity and kindness” — Janice Braden

“Trusted promotes local businesses run with integrity and they stand by their word and enforce their contracts. We are proud partners.”

— Lorena Sawchyn, Emerald Park Homes, Trusted Regina Home Builders

“The Trusted team educates, promotes and supports us in a way that no other advertising companies ever have or would!

Great value and results.”

— Cam, Adrenaline Roofing, Trusted Regina Contractors

Trustedsaskatoon.com launched in 2012 and the Trusted Canada App is available for Apple and Android.

Franchising is next!

In October 2014, Trusted Marketing Services launched a marketing agency with clients as far away as Europe. Since 2012, Trusted has been recognized for marketing excellence. In 2014, Trusted won both the Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce SABEX and Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX marketing awards, and travelled to New York to accept two international STEVIE Awards for marketing.

Trusted also cares about community.

Child Find, Habitat for Humanity and Souls Harbour Mission are a few ABOVE Trustedregina.com office and team, L-R Kelly Spence , Janice Kosteniuk BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

107

2015

PAINTER

For Outstanding Results,

Using a Journeyman Painter Really Pays Off

By Melanie Furlong Photos DeAnne Bell

A

year ago, when salon owner Jason Orban needed a paint job done, a friend recommended Chad Herzberg Painting. “They came in and helped us finish the mudding and taping, then they painted the walls and ceiling for us,” says Orban. “They were fast and did a great job.”

More recently, Orban needed work done in his basement at home and remembered the fabulous work by Chad Herzberg Painting. Again, Herzberg’s team helped finish up the drywall and mudding, painted the walls and ceiling, put down some carpet and put on the

new baseboards. “They did a fantastic job and we were blown away,” says Orban.

“The price was very competitive and the work was spot on. One contractor told us it would take over a month to complete, but Chad and his team were in and out in less than a week.”

Chad Herzberg is a certified journeyman painter with 26 years of experience, painting everything from residential homes to restaurants and movie sets. He’s skilled in all fine finishes, spray textures, faux finishes and works closely with his clients to establish a good working relationship Chad Herzberg

108

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

to understand exactly what they need.

This personal attention to client needs and the fine details has brought him a lot of repeat business.

Homeowners Gail and Gord Blommaert have used Chad Herzberg Painting on three separate occasions. “Whether Chad was repairing and painting a wall or repairing our stippled ceiling, the work was well done and we were completely satisfied,” says Gail. “Chad was very willing to accommodate all our needs.”

Restauranteur Scott Aspelieter, owner of Fireside Bistro, has hired Herzberg on several occasions over the last seven years. One of the jobs involved

“He is reliable and eager to complete any job large or small.

I have found Chad to be very conscious of his workmanship and would recommend him.”

—Scott Aspelieter

removing lath and plaster walls from the third floor of the century-old restaurant and completely reconstructing them.

Herzberg has also done renovations in other parts of the restaurant, in Aspelieter’s residence and revenue properties. “He is reliable and eager to complete any job large or small,” says Apelieter. “I have found Chad to be very conscious of his workmanship and would recommend him.”

“What I do is get to the bottom of whatever is making the paint peel or whatever problem the client has,” says Herzberg. “Then I help them resolve it.”

Spring, summer and fall are Herzberg’s busiest seasons. This summer, many

“They did a fantastic job and we were blown away. The price was very competitive and the work was spot on.”

—Jason Orban

BEST OF THE BEST

clients will head off for vacation and come home to completely refreshed homes.

Summer vacation is a great time to get your painting projects done as Herzberg is a reliable, trustworthy contractor who can get the work done quickly and easily while you are enjoying yourself.

If you have a construction or painting project on your hands, call Chad Herzberg Painting to take care of all your needs. No job is too big or too small!

Chad Herzberg Painting Regina 306.541.1500 herzbergpainting@live.com

“Whether Chad was repairing and painting a wall or repairing our stippled ceiling, the work was well done and we were completely satisfied.”

—Gail and Gord Blommaert

FineLifestyles

REGINA

109

2015

PET GROOMING

Saskatchewan’s

ONE-STOP DOG SHOP

By Melanie Furlong Photos DeAnne Bell

I

f keeping your most loyal friends happy and healthy is important to you, so is buying the best food, treats and supplies for them. Pawsitively Purrfect is a holistic shop that sells only healthy, natural products for dogs. “We don’t carry any foods or snacks that contain byproducts or ingredients from China,” says Richard Morton, who opened the store in the south end Regina with his wife, Ivy, 18 years ago this fall. “We offer all natural and premium raw foods for dogs.”

The Mortons, who have 10 dogs of their own, including nine whippets and

110

FineLifestyles

REGINA

a greyhound, test all the foods on their own animals and have always been very picky about what they feed them.

While many low quality dog foods are higher in carbohydrates than protein, Pawsitively Purrfect promotes products that are more protein-based and higher in meat inclusions such as dehydrated and raw foods. The local, independent shop also likes to promote the best Canadian products whenever possible.

Alongside their vast selection of high quality food, Pawsitively Purrfect has a huge variety of products in their 4,000

BEST OF THE BEST

sq. ft. store. Agility equipment, beds and blankets, collars and leads, cat supplies, grooming supplies, toys, giftware, dental equipment, crates and pens, electronic training devices, training aids, health products, travel aids, harnesses and much more are all available in the friendly shop.

You’re certain to find the best choices for your pet here at the best prices.

Having your dog groomed regularly is another way to keep them feeling good and healthy. Pawsitively Purrfect has three experienced dog groomers on staff who work with all breeds. Each staff member

is knowledgeable and utilizes a handson approach that will put both you and your pet at ease. In this way, Pawsitively Purrfect has attracted passionate pet owners from across Saskatchewan — from single pet owners to breeders, trainers and pet professionals and everyone in between.

Although grooming appointments must be booked in advance, Pawsitively Purrfect does walk-in nail trimming for dogs, which is recommended once a month at minimum to keep nails at a healthy length.

Let the friendly staff at Pawsitively Purrfect help you find a food that’s right for your cat or dog.

And, of course, you and your pet are invited to come and look around this dog oasis. “We deal with a lot of pets we see for their whole lives and we become very attached to them,” says Richard. “We like being a community-based store. We really get to know our customers and their pets.”

Pawsitively Purrfect 4637 Rae St., Regina 306.949.5255 www.onestopdogshop.com

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

111

2015

PROFESSIONAL BAR SERVICE

Turn Your Party into an Event!

By Tobie Hainstock

W

hen it comes to throwing a great party, Laurie Wall knows exactly what to do! She’s labelled herself a “celebrationist.” It’s a handle that’s fitting for her success as Regina’s leader of all things “party.”

When Wallnuts Expressive Catering opened 13 years ago, the focus was on providing delicious food with amazing service. As time went on, Wallnuts was asked to provide bar and wait staff. “We took our customer service to another level. People started asking for our professionally trained bartenders and servers outside of Wallnuts catering,” says Wall.

When Wall says “we,” she’s referring to Ryan Moore, who’s been involved with Wallnuts for more than eight years. The result of Moore taking over customer

112

FineLifestyles

REGINA

service has always ended the same — with everyone having an amazing time.

Moore’s popularity grew over the years with more people asking for his bartending services. After bringing Jesse Carr on board as his No. 1 bartender, Moore began to re-evaluate his place at Wallnuts. A brainstorming session among the three led to the development of BarNuts, a full service bartending and wait staff deliverance.

Service! Service! Service! Smile! This is BarNuts’ claim to fame and everyone appreciates the excellent service and hospitality they provide. Being in the business of creating great memories for people is a true passion for them.

“We consider ourselves liquid chefs,” Moore states. “We concoct all sorts of drinks that really put the focus on what

BEST OF THE BEST

you’re drinking. I began to experiment with a juicer, making a variety of healthy drinks that can include alcohol or stand alone. We created this crazy potion baptized Love Juice which has taken on a life of its own!” Moore won’t reveal the ingredients, but he says it’s a hangover free drink that really packs a punch!.

BarNuts specializes in serving nonalcoholic beverages, as well. Experience their creamy hot chocolate bars, tangy punches, delicious coffees and more and you’ll find out why they are so popular!.

Have an idea for a theme party? BarNuts has set up bars on everything from tailgates to upscale beachfronts. Moore will even plan the event for you. Simply tell him how many guests you’re expecting along with your budget and BarNuts will look after everything for you, including setup, menus, glassware and more.

Although BarNuts is based in Regina, they take their services to locations all over the province. BarNuts is a team of highly trained and experienced bartenders and wait staff that look forward to making your event a successful one.

Carr is also pleased to offer Snap’d Media packages featuring live internet streaming, event photos, videos and more. This is perfect for fundraisers, festivals, corporate events, and can even accommodate guests who can’t attend.

A WINNING COMBINATION BarNuts loves to combine their expertise with their friends at Wallnuts and bring spectacular food along to match their cool cocktail menu.

Wallnuts offers a full menu of spectacular dishes that pair perfectly to the drinks BarNuts creates. As a chef, Wall is as passionate about creating delicious food as Moore and Carr are about creating the perfect drink.

Whether it’s large or small, Wallnuts and BarNuts are always thrilled to help you make your event a memorable one.

BarNuts 232A College Avenue E, Regina 306.543.9255 www.barnuts.ca Wallnuts Expressive Catering 232A College Ave E, Regina 306.543.9255 www.wallnuts.ca

TOP Photo by John Morrell BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

113

2015

REAL ESTATE

A PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE

BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK

114

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

R

eal estate agent, Leanne Tourney, excels at consistently exceeding client expectations. With over half of her business coming from repeat customers or referrals, it’s evident that clients appreciate her hard work, commitment and attention to their needs.

She comes by her success honestly: through her tenacity and, perhaps, genetic heritage! Leanne has watched her mother, Joyce Tourney, become highly successful in real estate. In November 2000, Leanne obtained her real estate license and subsequently her broker’s license. Currently, she is acting associate broker at RE/MAX Joyce Tourney Realty.

The brokerage operates as a boutique real estate company, taking pride in developing a reputation for integrity and providing high quality, specialized service. This level of service is maintained with the assistance of three well qualified administrative staff members and a dynamic sales team.

She took the time to hear and interpret my needs/wishes effectively, then impressed me with her availability and frank counsel. I never doubted Leanne’s commitment to finding the house that is just right for me and to fighting for best price.

I will be recommending her highly, constantly.

–Pam Kapoor Regina Leanne is proud to be part of one of the most successful RE/MAX teams in the world. The team’s commitment to their clients and the industry has ranked them first in Canada and eighth in the world for RE/MAX in 2014, and they have been recognized as one of the top 10 teams in the world for many years.

A sophisticated marketing program is at the core of this creative agent’s achievements. Advertising on bus benches, print advertising and an extensive online ad campaign using websites and social media has been very successful. Indeed, some say they see Leanne’s advertising every day whether in their travels or online. As a result, she is well recognized in the community.

Her drive for excellence has earned Leanne much recognition in the industry, including induction into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame in 2007. She is also the recipient of the RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award which is an honour bestowed on very few people in her line of work.

Leanne focuses on keeping balance in her life, and is encouraged by the love and support of her family, partner Sean, and their children.

taken care of. With her solid reputation built through strong ethics, this prominent, caring agent has earned a high level of respect from both clients and peers. “The hugs and gestures of appreciation I receive from clients are overwhelming, simply for doing my job. The amount of trust clients put in me, and the sharing of their personal lives, is very touching.”

This story is unfolding and is definitely worth watching: Leanne Tourney continues to lead the way in the competitive Regina real estate industry.

I’m a RE/MAX Miracle Agent!

I personally donate a portion from every sale to the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan. Buy or list your home with me to help support sick and injured kids.

With her business growing exponentially each year, Leanne feels that every year is better than the year before. Because she consistently keeps her clients best interests at the forefront, her loyal clients have certainly contributed to that growth.

There’s no doubt they feel they are well

Leanne Tourney RE/MAX Joyce Tourney Realty Regina Tel: 306.789.1700 Fax: 306.791.7682 www.leannetourney.com leannetourney@remax.net

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

115

2015

PATIO

Beer in a Box, Dill Pickle Vodka and the

Best Patio IN TOWN

By Brook Thalgott Photos Calvin Fehr

116

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

Chad Zipchian, owner of Birmingham’s Vodka & Ale House, likes to keep things new and interesting in his popular Regina pub and restaurant. Since opening three years ago, he’s been shaking things up by creating Saskatchewan’s first and best Dill Pickle Vodka, which in turn spawned the famous Birmingham’s Dill Pickle Caesar. The pub boasts more than 100 different vodka brands and they’re bringing more to Regina than you could ever imagine.

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

117

T

he summer of 2015 just got a lot more interesting with Birmingham’s Rider 99er — 99 cans of beer in a box — all selected by you. “We’re doing something really fun,” says Chad. “Customers can come in and pick 99 cans of beer and we’ll pack them into a custom designed to-go box. We’ve got a great selection of domestic beers to choose from, and if you call ahead, we’ll have it ready to go when you get to our off-sale.” The Rider 99er is $189.99 and available throughout the summer while quantities last.

The Birmingham’s off-sale is not only home to the Rider 99er, but also anything you might need to make your house party or night at home even better.

Birmingham’s off-sale store has a great selection of wine, beers and spirits. And now, you don’t even need to get out of your car. There is a drive-thru window so you can save yourself time. Instead of finding a place to park and coming in, just pull up and the staff will hand over whatever you’re looking for. Plus, Birmingham’s home delivery brings the pub experience right to your front door.

“We know our customers want to take the Birmingham’s experience home, so we’ve got off-sale in-store or via our drive-thru window,” says Chad.

Birmingham’s is carrying more than just beer this summer. Every Thursday is fajita night. Available with beef, chicken or shrimp, the fajitas are served with floured tortillas, Mexican rice, mixed peppers, onions, lettuce, cheese and sour cream — plus in-house made pico de gallo and guacamole. The perfect accompaniment for your fajita is the new Frozen Dill Pickle Caesar, a delight made with frozen house-blended clamato juice.

If you’re hungry on a Friday night, swing by for prime rib. Every Friday, you’ll find smoked prime rib on special, served with a chef’s choice potato, vegetable and a homemade Yorkshire pudding. Just $20.95, it’s available Friday from 5 p.m. until it’s sold out. And why not pair it with a Birmingham’s Bulldog; their take on the paralyzer, it’s a concoction of cola, vodka, ice and cream — perfect for a summer night on the patio.

118

FineLifestyles

REGINA

This fall, you can expect more new things to pop up at Birmingham’s., including changes to their innovative menu. “We’re launching new items for the fall menu,” says Chad. “We do a lot of work planning our menu to make sure we stand out,” says Chad. Your old favourites will still be there, and you’ll find some new dishes to fall in love with. Plus, Birmingham’s is extending its reach and bringing its unique pub experience to new patrons in late winter. Look out Saskatoon — Birmingham’s second location is coming to the Lawson Heights area this winter.

Even though it’s summer, it’s never too soon to start thinking about the winter holiday season. If you’re planning a holiday event or celebrating a special occasion, Birmingham’s can make it fantastic. With space for 70 people, which includes a private washroom and an entertainment system, their private room can make your occasion amazing. There are three

BEST OF THE BEST

televisions — one 80-inch and two 60inch sets — and the entire room is wired for audio and video to be controllable from your smartphone. You can even bring your own music to play and feature your own videos and photos. “Now is the time to start thinking about your winter holiday events,” says Chad. “We’re currently booking for Christmas parties.”

Whether you’re looking for spirits for a night out, beverages for a night in or a place to hold your office Christmas party, Birmingham’s Vodka & Ale House is the place to go. Grab a Rider 99er at the offsale, tuck into a slab of prime rib and plan a special occasion all in one location. It’s the place to be all year round!

Birmingham’s Vodka & Ale House 2635 E Starlite Street Regina 306.546.3647 birminghams.ca

2015

SPA

New Wellness Treatments from

REGINA’S LEADING SPA

By Courtney Tait

C

elebrating its 17th year in business, En Vogue Day Spa is proud to offer a range of treatments that focus on wellness for the body and mind. Designated as one of the Leading Spas of Canada, En Vogue is on the forefront of information, products and services in the spa industry.

“Many people consider a trip to the spa an extravagance or just self-pampering, but there is scientific proof that professional spa services provided by licensed professionals provide positive health benefits,” says Patricia Cassell-Ogilvie, owner of En Vogue. “We are

continuously searching for treatments to benefit the wellness of our clients.”

En Vogue is Quality Assured by Leading Spas of Canada which ensures proper sterilization protocols are in place. The spa uses a medical autoclave to thoroughly sterilize tools so that clients can trust they are in a safe environment to receive care.

So what are the options? While all of the treatments on En Vogue’s extensive spa menu are relaxing, the four highlighted here focus specifically on healing and releasing stress.

ABOVE L-R Patricia Cassell-Ogilvie & Kim Cassell, owners of En Vogue Day Spa BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

119

Supportive Oncology Esthetics and Oncology Massage If you or someone you know is experiencing cancer, you may be interested in En Vogue’s oncology services. Supportive Oncology Esthetics is a specialty field of care to help a person cope with cancer, its treatments and side effects.

overwhelmed and can greatly benefit from supportive care. The power of touch is healing, soothing and comforting.”

Common reactions of chemotherapy and radiation are blisters, peeling skin and itchiness. Visiting a certified oncology esthetician ensures skin will be properly cared for with products and techniques specifically developed to support a journey to wellness.

The purpose of supportive oncology esthetics is not to treat the cancer itself, but to treat the person as a whole.

One of En Vogue’s clients, B.D., shared these thoughts on the spa’s oncology treatment: “My mother-in-law has stage four lung cancer and came in for an oncology massage. She was treated with respect, made to feel comfortable and the staff was very accommodating. She was happy to get out and she indicated the massage was very gentle and relaxing.”

“Cancer treatment affects all aspects of a person’s life, including emotional, psychosocial and body-image issues,” says Patricia. “Many people find they are

“We are passionate about offering this much needed service to our community and welcome any questions people may have,” says Patricia.

120

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

compression, joint mobilization and acupressure during treatment.”

Thai massage can also be of great therapeutic benefit for conditions such as tension headaches, neck and shoulder tension, back pain, joint pain, digestive disorders, menstruation problems, insomnia and other discomforts. Yada, En Vogue’s certified practitioner of Thai massage is from Thailand and received her training there. En Vogue offers a 90-minute Traditional Thai massage treatment, which, Patricia says, “clients are loving.”

No matter what kind of treatment you try, you are guaranteed to enjoy your time at En Vogue, as its team considers excellent customer service an essential part of the spa experience. “We’re like a family here and we treat our clients the same way,” says Patricia. “As we celebrate our 17th year in business, we’d like to thank Regina and the surrounding communities for their support.”

Shirodhara This ancient Ayurvedic treatment has been used for thousands of years to promote relaxation and wellness. Warm oil is poured over the forehead in a soothing stream onto the sixth chakra, your intuitive energetic centre. “This simple yet profound treatment works specifically on balancing and stabilizing the activity of the mind, taking you on a journey deep within,” says Patricia. “You have to feel it to believe it.” Shirodhara can aid in mental and emotional balance, insomnia, hormonal imbalances, disorders of the nervous system, nervous exhaustion, stress and anxiety.

En Vogue offers a 45-minute Shirodhara treatment, which includes a head, neck and shoulder massage.

Traditional Thai Massage

En Vogue Day Spa 2340 Cornwall St. Regina 306.584.7272 envogue@envoguedayspa.com www.envoguedayspa.com

Thai massage is a combination of deep tissue massage, acupressure and stretching. It is significantly more dynamic than most classic forms of massage. Thai massage is sometimes called “lazy man’s yoga” because the therapist uses his or her hands, knees, legs and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches.

“People say Thai massage is like doing yoga without any work,” says Patricia.

“The moves produce active muscle

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

121

2015

SCREEN ENCLOSURES

Large Screen Enclosures Offer Better Outdoor Living

By Melanie Furlong Photos DeAnne Bell

I

magine spending time on your deck or patio this summer without worrying about UV rays, high winds or mosquitos. You can do just that when you install a custom-built enclosure from Suncoast Enclosures. The Edmonton-based company, which has been serving Regina since 1999, offers a variety of large screen enclosures.

This spring, the company opened a new showroom and retail space at

122

FineLifestyles

REGINA

3401 Pasqua St. Regional manager Don Larwood says, “It’s a great location for people to come in to see samples, photos and get information on a beautiful and functional enclosure that would work for their home.”

Everything built by Suncoast Enclosures is designed and engineered to withstand the powerful wind, snow and hail experienced in Saskatchewan.

This includes their popular 3-Season

BEST OF THE BEST

Sunrooms, Super Wind Screens and stylish Louvered Roofs.

The 3-Season Sunroom, custom-built to any size, shape or colour, offers a bright, ventilated space with sliding windows and high-quality screens that provide shade and waterproofing.

Many 3-Season rooms are pre-wired for electricity and can be used for about nine months a year with a small heat source.

Another grade of screen can be used to create a Super Wind Screen.

Black and opaque on the outside, Super Wind Screens block 90 per cent of wind and are popular with homeowners who also want the privacy they provide.

From the inside, they allow for a bright, clear and unobstructed view as well as shade protection for south and west facing decks.

Another incredible solution for protection from sun and rain are their Louvered Roofs. They look like pergolas and have the benefits of a fully adjustable louvered system. Their eight-inch blades are controlled by a self-sustaining, solarpowered remote to provide full to partial sun and rain protection.

While the company installs many of their products on new home builds,

Suncoast Enclosures also works on older homes and cottages in rural communities. They’ve even done entire condominiums.

Says Larwood: “Some of the comments we hear from clients are: ‘Why did we wait so long?’ and ‘Why did we make it so small?’ A lot of people say investing in an enclosure is the best money they’ve ever spent.”

Come into Suncoast Enclosures new storefront and find out how you can extend your outdoor living.

The Suncoast Enclosures Team

Suncoast Enclosures 3401 Pasqua St. Regina 306.761.1801 suncoastenclosures.com

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

123

2015

SKIN CARE

Natural Products

That Give You Beautiful, Healthy Skin

By Melanie Furlong Photos Heather Fritz

A

ll types of skin from oily and problematic to dry and mature can be made healthy and beautiful with the right products. Lia Reese Botanical Skin Care, developed and founded by Jessica Tetu, the 2014 Saskatchewan Young

124

FineLifestyles

REGINA

Entrepreneur of the Year, is a Canadianmade line designed to offer outstanding results for all skin types.

In 2012, after 10 years of working closely with a Canadian laboratory and training in skin therapy, Tetu launched her own

BEST OF THE BEST

line of professional skin care products and named the line after her daughter, Ellia Reese. She says, “I created Lia Reese Botanical Skin Care to offer a high quality, professional line that uses essential oils and botanicals instead of fragrances and astringents.�

C FACTOR CREAM: Fight time by delivering the anti-oxidant benefits of Vitamin C to your skin in this smooth cream suitable for normal to dry skin, or those looking to help combat first signs of aging. Stable Vitamin C polypeptide protects skin cells from free radical damage. Soothing botanical extracts calm skin irritated by sun and environmental pollutants. Infused with pure citrus essential oils, featuring the refreshing scent of sweet mandarin.

VITAMIN A PUMPKIN CLEANSER: Great for oily/combination skin, with focus on anti-aging and hyperpigmentation (dark/sun spots). This refreshing daily cleanser removes surface residue and protects against free radical damage. Pumpkin contains Vitamin A and beta-carotene, two potent antioxidant ingredients that help to fortify the cellular matrix of the skin. This deliciously aromatic Pumpkin Cleanse provides important nutrition for the skin with surface reducing lipids and essential oils.

BHA/ENZYME MICRO POLISH: Can’t afford a micro-dermabrasion facial treatment? Try this incredible micro-polish for similar results. This fine-grained (potato derived) powder activates with water to form a creamy, low-foam paste designed to smooth, refine and brighten skin. The active enzyme digests dry, dead skin cells, while salicylic acid encourages healthy cellular renewal and aids in keeping pores clean.

Licorice extract is an anti-irritant and helps diminish the appearance of dark sun/age spots. Burdock root helps normalize oil production.

The Lia Reese skin care collection has a range of products for normal, dry, oily and mature skin. Lia Reese also offers innovative anti-aging and corrective skincare solutions that focus on extenuating treatments typically conducted in a medical aesthetic practice. Several of the Lia Reese products employ the use of cutting-edge scientific ingredients offering results that clients have come to demand from clinical skincare.

Learn more about Tetu’s success story in the exclusive “Women of Achievement” feature in the fall issue of Fine Lifestyles Regina.

Some of Tetu’s favourites, and the company’s bestsellers, are the Vitamin A Pumpkin Cleanse, the C Factor Cream and the BHA/Enzyme Micro Polish.

Lia Reese Botanicals is only sold in professional spas, skin care clinics and med-spas led by trained skin care professionals. To find a Lia Reese Botanical Skin Care retailer near you, visit www.liareese.com.

Lia Reese Botanicals Skin Care info@liareese.com

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

125

2015

STEAKHOUSE

Everything You Want in a Steakhouse — Only Casual 126

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

T

he term steakhouse usually brings associations of a high end, expensive eatery. That’s not what you’ll experience at MR MIKES SteakhouseCasual. Prepare yourself for something a little different.

Okay, a lot different.

Opened in 1960, the very first MR MIKES was the ultimate definition of casual — a cafeteria-style grill where you served yourself a salad while waiting to pick up your steak. An affordable way to enjoy high quality beef, it was also highly successful, growing into a chain of unique, no-frills steakhouses known for good quality, sensibly priced food. That concept has evolved over the last half century, but still embodies all the things guests have come to love: high quality, value and friendly surroundings. No pretentions.

No airs. No attitudes.

Many restaurants have lounges. Even more have sports bars. Nobody except MR MIKES has an urbanLODGE. The Lodge is unique and refreshingly relaxed with an upbeat urban flare. Welcoming and immediately comfortable, it’s an ideal place to unwind with friends and enjoy a generous selection of tasty, creative cocktails, quality wines and the signature Antler Ale and Big Horn Lager beers, specially brewed by Okanagan Springs Brewery. Homey, quietly tasteful, refreshingly irreverent, subversively edgy and well worth it. The urbanLODGE is an undeniably Canadian experience.

Steak Without the attitude

“MR MIKES is down-to-earth, yet sophisticated,” states Dave Nussbaumer, one of the MR MIKES franchisees who owns the Regina, Prince Albert and Yorkton locations. “…natural woods, comfy furniture, great food, excellent beverages and fun people trained to deliver a genuinely memorable, experience.”

MR MIKES SteakhouseCasual has opened its doors to four Saskatchewan locations in the last two years, with restaurants in Yorkton, Regina, Prince Albert and Saskatoon. Getting involved and giving back to their local communities has been a strong focus for the MR MIKES brand. The locations in Saskatchewan have already supported local organizations such as KidSport and they have just embarked on an

exciting official partnership with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

another 24 locations in Canada over the next seven years.

“We’ve been fortunate to work with some amazing local organizations that really help those living in our communities,” adds Nussbaumer.

“We’re also thrilled about partnering with the Saskatchewan Roughriders this season. We’re excited to celebrate our Rider Pride with our guests and cheer the team on together.”

Visit mrmikes.ca to find a location near you.

Plans to open more Saskatchewan locations are underway with five locations slated to open in Saskatchewan over the next five years. The brand plans to open

BEST OF THE BEST

Mr. Mikes SteakhouseCasual 4651 Gordon Road Regina 306.352.6453 regina@mrmikes.ca

FineLifestyles

REGINA

127

2015

SALON

On the Cutting Edge of

HAIR

By Courtney Tait Photos DeAnne Bell

W

hen Kaesha Kastning opened Saffyre Salon and Spa in fall 2014, she knew she wanted it to be a place where her clients felt at home. Step into the salon’s lively, welcoming atmosphere and you’ll see the 22- year-old business owner has made her vision a reality with an open-concept design and a friendly team of stylists who are experts in both hair and customer service.

Saffyre provides hair services for men, women and children as well as massage treatments, manicures and pedicures. Saffyre’s stylists take time during each client’s hair consultation to ensure the end result is the best option. “We offer suggestions about what will look good on people and use a colour book to show our clients different colours,” says Kaesha. “We want to make everyone feel comfortable and completely welcome.”

The team enhances its expertise each month through training with platform artists at hair seminars and in one-on-one sessions at the salon. While many salons use products from just one brand, Saffyre is affiliated with six different product lines, including vegan and organic options. This enables its stylists to participate in training from a wide spectrum of professionals, learning the latest trends and techniques in cutting, colouring and styling.

128

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

Kaesha says the rise in social media has led to more people looking to celebrity hair styles for inspiration. “People see celebrities’ hair and want those techniques,” she says. “Celebrity stylists teach and train the people who teach and train us. We try to do as much one-onone training as we can.”

For Saffyre’s clients, this means the stylists doing their hair can offer cuttingedge options tailored to their hair type, colour and face shape. One of the salon’s popular techniques is balayage, a form of colouring that uses hand painting rather than foils. Saffyre’s stylists use a bleach designed for balayage by Artego, a highquality colour brand. “With foils, there are only a few ways to do them,” says Kaesha. “Balayage can be done a different way on everyone.”

Another hot hair trend is vibrant, high fashion colours such as red, blue and lavender. While most salons offer only semi-permanent colouring for this style, which tends to fade quickly, Saffyre carries the colouring line Pravana, which features longest-lasting high fashion colours.

With the use of colour additive Olaplex, Saffyre’s stylists are able to make dramatic changes to hair colour, such as going from black to blond, in just one or two sessions without damaging the hair.

“The bond multipliers in Olaplex repair the hair by penetrating deep into the hair shaft,” says Kaesha. “As stylists, this allows us to push the envelope as far as colour changes go.”

“Hearing people say they love coming to the salon, that they feel welcome and at home here is very fulfilling,” says Kaesha. “There is so much satisfaction in having happy clients.”

The combination of a wide range of product lines, expertise and exceptional service has made Saffyre Salon and Spa very successful in its first year of business.

“Hearing people say they love coming to the salon, that they feel welcome and at home here is very fulfilling,” says Kaesha.

“There is so much satisfaction in having happy clients.”

Saffyre Salon and Spa Suite 11-3710 Eastgate Dr. Regina 306.761.0890 saffyresalonandspa@gmail.com www.saffyresalonandspa.ca

Kaesha Kastning, owner

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

129

2015

SUSHI RESTAURANT

EXPERIENCE THE ART of Japanese Cuisine

By Tori Stafford Photos Calvin Fehr

It’s no secret that sushimaking is a unique art form in the world of culinary delicacies.

O

ne look at a plate of fresh sushi and sashimi, and it’s easy to see why. The stunning and colourful array of rice, fish, seafood, meat and vegetables masterfully rolled and carefully placed on a plate is a fine art. But that is just the art

130

FineLifestyles

REGINA

of preparation and presentation; creating the unique flavour combinations that make sushi such a favourite is another art form all together.

One thing paramount in mastering this art is using only the freshest high-quality ingredients. For Tony Yang, owner of Hanabi Japanese Sushi Restaurant, nothing is more important. “Our food is never pre-made. We don’t even mix the rice with the vinegar until the customer orders,” says Yang. “That’s my goal — to keep it fresh.”

BEST OF THE BEST

The fare offered at Hanabi is nothing like the sushi you find in the grocery store or mall food court. Menu items, including a wide variety of Japanese favourites beyond sushi and sashimi, are all prepared to order. And the quality of the ingredients that go into every dish is as important as preparing them.

Hanabi receives shipments of fresh fish and seafood on a weekly basis from Vancouver, which is also where Yang sources the Japanese ingredients that are unavailable locally, such as udon noodles.

Otherwise, ingredients such as meat

and vegetables are purchased locally — sometimes daily, Yang says.

Despite the painstaking efforts that go into ensuring freshness and quality, Hanabi offers an authentic Japanese dining experience at an affordable price. New menu items include a selection of bento box options, each with an assortment of Japanese specialties such as tempura, goyoza (a Japanese meat dumpling) and, of course, sushi. These options allow diners to sample a number of different foods and flavours in one meal.

For example, the teriyaki supper bento includes spinach or seaweed salad, rice, salmon norimaki, assorted tempura and a choice of beef or chicken teriyaki, finished off with ice cream. Each bento box boasts a reasonably priced generous portion of food. Similarly, Hanabi offers a number of combination options and large plates for sharing called boats, which offers outstanding value and variety.

Hanabi offers an intimate comfortable atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a dinner date with a loved one or a fun night out with friends. For Yang and the welcoming staff at Hanabi Japanese Sushi Restaurant, bringing a unique and high-calibre experience in Japanese cuisine to downtown Regina is a reward all of its own.

“When a customer says to me ‘We love your food! We can’t wait to come back,’ to me, those comments are worth more than the money I make,” says Yang.

Hanabi Japanese Sushi Restaurant 1950 Broad St., Regina 306.585.8880 www.hanabi.ca TOP LEFT Gold Dragon Roll - $14.50, 8 pc.

TOP RIGHT Spicy BBQ Pork - $15.50, soup & salad incl. BOTTOM LEFT Supper Bento starts at $19.99 BOTTOM RIGHT Lunch Bento starts at $11 RIGHT Ocean Crab Roll $13, 8 pc.

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

131

2015

TAEKWONDO

Kick Start a Lifetime of Sport, Health and Discipline

By Brook Thalgott Photos DeAnne Bell

When Michelle Keith founded Artisan Taekwondo five years ago, it was the culmination of years of hard work and learning. Now, she’s proud to share her love of Taekwondo and fitness with the city of Regina. “

W

e are the only Olympic Taekwondo in Regina that runs a dedicated highperformance program,” says Michelle, a 3rd Dan WTF Black Belt.

“We keep our classes small and offer

132

FineLifestyles

REGINA

personalized training programs. We cater to both high performance athletes and to families joining the sport.” With flexible schedules and payment options, Artisan Taekwondo provides the most options for martial arts programming in the city.

BEST OF THE BEST

Artisan Taekwondo prides itself on being a small and inclusive club focused on individual achievements and goals.

Taekwondo offers its students not only a challenging fitness regime for any fitness level, but also builds confidence

as well as instills discipline and respect.

The sport is appropriate and adaptable for all abilities, special needs and ages; it’s fun and a great way to meet new people. “We’re more than just a club,” says Michelle. “We’ve created a wonderful family atmosphere for all our members and students.”

For parents considering Taekwondo for their children, Artisan offers a summer camp for beginners. Running August 18, the camp gives children from Grades 1 to 8 a chance to try the sport and no experience is necessary. “The camp is a great way to kick start a lifetime of sport, health and discipline,” says Michelle.

Plus, family classes are open every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. at Candy Cane Park. New students are very

welcome to come out and try the class for free. “Our family classes and classes for kids promote confidence, discipline and achievement,” says Michelle. “No matter what your goal is, Taekwondo can help you get there.”

“No matter what your age, skill, or fitness level, Taekwondo is a sport worth trying,” says Michelle. “You’ll not only get fit, but you’ll also gain confidence in yourself and experience real achievement as you progress.”

In addition to Taekwondo, Artisan includes fitness classes in other disciplines, including cardio workouts and martial art boot camps. This fall, the studio will also host self-defense seminars; watch Artisan’s Facebook page for more information.

Classes are from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturdays. Artisan Taekwondo can take your goals to the next level.

Visit them online or call to kick start your Taekwondo experience.

The Artisan Taekwondo team has a combined 60 years in the sport, with national and international experience. They are always learning and challenging themselves and bringing knowledge back to Artisan.

BEST OF THE BEST

Artisan Taekwondo 1620D McAra Street Regina 306.522.2822 artisantaekwondo.ca

FineLifestyles

REGINA

133

2015

TREATMENT CENTRE

HEALING, LEARNING AND FREEDOM

from the Deadly Grip of Addiction

By Melanie Furlong Photos Alicia Leclercq

A

ddicts and their families should never give up on the struggle with drug and alcohol addiction. Ardyth Wilson, an alcoholic in recovery, knows this from personal experience. She got sober 30 years ago, but lost her brother, Dwight, to his addictions at a young age. This was one of the catalysts that drove Wilson to open the Leipzig Serenity Retreat seven years ago in Wilkie, SK., making it the only privately run addictions centre in the province.

The beautiful retreat, located in an 88-year-old former convent, provides a warm, welcoming environment for addicts in a non-institutional setting. All the staff at Leipzig Serenity Retreat are

134

FineLifestyles

REGINA

either in recovery themselves or have family members who are. Their fiveweek program is based on the 12 step philosophical ideas used by more than 350 organizations. Ms. Wilson states, “Many centres only do steps one to three or one to five, but we do all 12 of the steps here.”

Working on her own, it took Wilson almost one year to do the 12 Steps and it was a very painful process. At Leipzig Serenity Retreat, they explore all the steps in five weeks. “Years ago, you could find someone in AA who would help you go through the steps,” she says. “It appears to be harder for people to give the kind of time you need to get clean and sober nowadays. When they come here

BEST OF THE BEST

and learn the steps, they’re more apt to continue with their recovery and build a healthy support network.”

Also offered is one-on-one counselling, small group counselling, meditation sessions and an emotional wellness program designed at Leipzig Serenity Retreat. The emotional wellness classes explore self-esteem issues, negative core beliefs and biased expectations.

This exploration helps clients redefine and examine their own morals, values and beliefs.

Ms. Wilson attributes their high rate of success to the intimate relaxed setting and high counsellor-client ratio.

The retreat can accommodate up to a

maximum of 18 clients at one time and has three full-time counsellors on staff as well as peer support workers.

Last year, 127 clients 18 years old and up took part in their programs. A client named Sam says, “I could not have asked for a better serenity retreat. The grounds are beautiful and huge and the staff is amazing and very helpful. My five weeks went by so fast and the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions helped me through it. I appreciate all that you have done for me!”

While it’s heartbreaking to see the damage already done to young addicts, Wilson is adamant they are not without

hope. “Watching people change is the most fulfilling part of our jobs,” she says.

Anyone who requests a tour of the facility is welcome and staff members are happy to answer questions from addicts or their families about the program. If you or anyone you know could benefit from the services at Leipzig Serenity Retreat, give them a call. This special place is changing lives for the better.

Leipzig Serenity Retreat Wilkie, SK 888.519.4445 306.658.4767 leipziginfo@sasktel.net leipzigserenityretreat.com

BEST OF THE BEST

photo above right Singer Tom Jackson, 2013 Music Festival, bottom right Ardyth Wilson, owner

FineLifestyles

REGINA

135

Professional STANDARDS, Personal SERVICE

2015

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

By Brook Thalgott Photos Calvin Fehr

W

hen it comes to dealing with finances, most of us groan and wish we could avoid it all together.

However, managing your finances is one of the most important — yet most hated — things we have to do. The best idea is to let a professional help take the load, and perhaps make the process a bit more enjoyable.

Chris Worby of Regina’s Worby Wealth Management is just that professional.

With almost 15 years of experience in the world of financial planning, he can guide you through the money management maze and make it a positive experience.

Chris, a third-generation financial advisor, understands how overwhelming it can be. “It’s easy to get lost in all the options available for investments and suffer from analysis paralysis,” says Chris. “That’s where I come in. I will analyze your financial needs and develop a plan tailormade for your lifestyle.”

Chris steers his clients away from the “spaghetti at the wall” system of planning and gets them working toward specific, attainable goals. By taking a look at his clients’ financial picture, he helps people discover and pinpoint what they want out of their money while creating a strategic plan that helps to take care of the “right now” as well as save for the future.

“During this discovery process, we get to know each other and, sometimes, I even help identify things that my clients may have never even thought of before,” says Chris. This practice leads to long-term, productive and friendly relationships with his clients, as they navigate through

136

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

ABOVE: Alison and Chris Worby

every financial stage of life. Whether it’s insurance, taxes, retirement or estate planning, Chris can take on your needs and goals and create a strategy for you.

Collin Pullar is a long-time Worby Wealth Management client, with nothing but great things to say about his relationship with Chris. “My wife and I have been clients for more than 11 years. While we considered ourselves financially responsible and relatively knowledgeable about our personal finances, we needed to be more strategic in setting up for our longer term goals,” says Collin.

Collin was impressed with Chris and his attention to detail, as well as his

responsible approach to his own finances. “His attention was not so much on products as it was on understanding us, our values and dreams. It was only then that he turned his attention to finding the right blend of products to meet our needs,” says Collin. As the Pullar family’s needs changed over time, Chris helped develop and execute strategies to reach their new goals. “From the early planning of education savings for our children, debt reduction, insurance, planning for a family member with special needs and early retirement planning, Chris helped us to build a solid plan and benefit from solid long-term investments,” says Collin. “If you’re looking for a thoughtful

BEST OF THE BEST

and disciplined financial advisor who can bring strong long-term returns, I strongly recommend Chris.”

Let Chris help you get your financial life in order and on the road to achieving your financial goals. To learn more about what Chris and Worby Wealth Management can do for you, call him today.

Worby Wealth Management 855 Arcola Avenue 306.791.8145 worbywealth.ca

FineLifestyles

REGINA

137

2015

WEIGHTLOSS

Shape Your Best Self with Curves/Jenny Craig

By Henny Buffinga Photos DeAnne Bell

I

n January of this year, Tracy Thompson, owner of the Curves on Rochdale Boulevard and South Albert, and general manager of the Curves in University Park, brought the very first brick-and-mortar Jenny Craig location to Regina. “I just knew it would be a really good fit,” she says. “With Curves, we provide the fitness component and some

138

FineLifestyles

REGINA

of the diet component. By adding Jenny Craig, it’s just another tool in the toolbox to help women achieve their goals.”

“Dieting is hard, no matter what program you use,” she continues. “Jenny Craig just makes it easier by having the food delivered right to your door, no matter where you live in Saskatchewan.”

BEST OF THE BEST

More than just a gym, Curves offers the personal attention that helps motivate their members, caring about their results and trying to help them find ways to improve. Curves provides a fitness program for clients with a 30 minute workout every day that is easy to fit into a busy schedule. The membership also includes a monthly coaching session so

Main picture: Tracy coaching Pat while working out; Top: Curves Staff L–R: Maureen, Mackenzie, April, Tracy Thompson (owner) Bottom left: Tracy consulting with June

there is always someone to be accountable to, which helps motivate members.

They give you the skills you need to live a happy, healthy life.”

In addition to the gym facilities, Curves provides many classes that help tone arms, legs and core muscles, as well as help women of all ages to improve balance and stability. Curves has also paired with Jillian Michaels, known as America’s toughest trainer, to offer her introductory and advanced classes combined with the Curves Circuit for when you want a more challenging workout.

This program also works well for people with diabetes to help regulate their blood sugar levels. Jenny Craig is not just for Curves members; it’s for anyone who needs a helping hand to lose weight.

Thompson is excited about the addition of Jenny Craig to the Rochdale location, adding another diet option to the menubased Curves Complete plan. “The Jenny Craig food tastes amazing, and you can design your own menu according to your own tastes,” she explains. “Our local consultants are there for you to discuss the emotional side of dieting as well.

Thompson first visited Curves after her mother-in-law bought her a membership.

After just a few visits, she spotted a sign that they were selling a location and she quickly decided it was the right move for her. When she discussed the move with the previous owners, she predicted that even if she didn’t shed a single pound, she would be happier after following the Curves program. To date, she has lost 71 pounds and has never been happier.

“It’s important to be strong for your everyday life, not being out of breath

BEST OF THE BEST

when you play with your kids or exhausted after running simple errands,” says Thompson. “It’s just about quality of life. We want to make a difference in women’s lives — to inspire them to be the best they can be and be happy with who they are.”

Visit any of their three locations today to find out more about Curves or Jenny Craig.

Curves/Jenny Craig 6839 Rochdale Boulevard, Regina 306.565.1977 Curves South Albert 4532 Albert Street S, Regina 306.585.2744 Curves East 188 University Park Drive, Regina 306.347.2218 www.curvesregina.com

FineLifestyles

REGINA

139

2015

WELLNESS PRODUCTS

We Are Redefining Youth Jeunesse is not the same old story of skin care and supplements. It’s not the same old network model. Jeunesse combines breakthrough sciences in a youth enhancement system that works from the inside out. By focusing on DNA repair and renewal, these products address aging at the cellular level, delivering results that make a real difference.

THE PRODUCT

W

ow, what product! Have you heard of Instantly Ageless™, or seen one of the videos shared through social media? This topical cream literally takes years off your appearance in minutes. No other product works as quickly or with such dramatic results.

Then there’s Luminesce™, a skin care line that uses adult stem cell technology with more than 200 Human Growth Factors that repair your DNA.

140

FineLifestyles

REGINA

And that’s just part of this amazing story.

Jeunesse isn’t just about skin care; it’s about anti-aging with youth enhancement system (YES) products, including: • Reserve™, a powerful antioxidant fruit blend • Finiti™, Jeunesse’s most advanced anti-aging supplement containing TA65 • AM & PM Essentials™, potent vitamins that support healthy cellular function and delay premature aging • Zen Bodi™, fat loss system

BEST OF THE BEST

These best-of-the-best formulas are innovative, and the youthful results are real.

THE OPPORTUNITY Anyone who knows about home-based business understands getting in early is key. Well, early is now! This product and company are new to Canada with a hard launch scheduled for fall 2015.

INC. 500 deemed Jeunesse the fastest growing Direct Sale company and No. 1 in momentum.

“I joined the Jeunesse team with Barb because I’ve honestly never come across a product line like this. The results speak for themselves!”

- Michelle Strawford

•

• •

Multiple awards alongside reputable companies such as Google and AT&T Products with Noble Prize winning technology Ships to more than 120 countries around the world

So what about the future? The anti-aging market is projected to be worth $192 billion by 2019. Entrepreneurs looking for cutting-edge products aligned with a solid compensation plan and exemplary leadership, need to look at Jeunesse.

THE TEAM Meet Barb Tchozewski. Barb is a professional with 20-plus years of experience in the energy sector. Barb was recently introduced to network marketing, an opportunity she wasn’t actively looking for. A girlfriend, who works in the medical field and was excited about the adult stem cell technology, brought the Luminesce™ skin care to her attention and Barb decided to try it. In her 30s, Barb developed a skin condition called melasma, (large dark spots on her skin). Intensive lasering and bleaching

BEST OF THE BEST

creams weren’t successful in improving the condition. However, after a few months of using Luminesce™, Barb saw a huge improvement.

Prompted by her results, Barb’s been promoting the company, the products and the opportunity. She’s part of a global team that includes top network marketers in the industry who provide training and leadership. Barb also participated in the first North American Jeunesse University in Orlando and a Jeunesse Leadership Conference in Las Vegas.

Given the trend toward rapid growth in the anti-aging market, Barb’s excited to work with those interested in joining her team to take advantage of this primetime opportunity. Contact her to learn more or try the amazing product.

Barb Tchozewski 306-949-9655 tchozewski@sasktel.net www.barbski.jeunesseglobal.com OPPOSITE L–R Michelle Strawford, Barb Tchozewski. Photo by Deanne Bell

FineLifestyles

REGINA

141

2015

TROPHIES

SO MUCH

more

THAN TROPHIES

By Brook Thalgott Photos Peter Scoular

T

he Barker name has been synonymous with trophies in Regina since the 1950s. The company, started by Gordon Barker as Barker’s Jewellery, became Barker’s Trophies in 1974. Since then, Barker’s has been serving Regina and area with the best in trophies, awards, gifts and much more. With 12 full-time staff including two graphic artists, two laser operators, two engraving operators and a silk screening expert — all assisted by excellent sales and support staff and the latest technology — Barkers can create and engrave almost anything you can think of.

Though trophies have been a staple in the Barker’s business, these days they also handle corporate awards and gifts, staff nametags, serial nametags for industrial companies, valve tags for oil companies, plastic signs and more. “Most people don’t know we can also create signage and tags for all kinds of purposes,” says Bob. “We can supply businesses with the signage, markers and tags they need in their day-to-day operations.”

Barker’s Trophies can create employee nametags for any business, customized

142

FineLifestyles

REGINA

BEST OF THE BEST

in size, shape and colour, in plastic or metal. Manufactured in-house, the company works hard to get most orders completed within one week. For industrial customers, Barker’s Trophies also offers markers, signage and tags for oil lines, electrical work, refrigeration, cable and construction. They manufacture custom pieces for any use, from marking panels and new equipment to switches and serial numbers. “We work with your business to create the signs and markers you need,” says Bob. Gifts, awards and mementos also make up a large part of the company’s business. The possibilities are endless and a trip through their website will reveal a myriad of potential ideas for virtually any commemoration. You’ll have no shortage of options, including the eye-catching glass carvings that are particularly suited to awards.

The optical crystal offers beautiful, transparent shapes that are elegantly designed. They also have classics such as crystal plates and fractured obelisks, and Barker’s can even craft a shape or design related to a company logo. Features such as base stands and clocks can be added to the trophy, making it both functional and decorative.

Barker’s Trophies offers engraving services that are second-to-none. If you

BEST OF THE BEST

FineLifestyles

REGINA

143

can think of it, the Barker’s team can probably engrave it. A visit to Barker’s Trophies will show you just how much they can engrave for any occasion. From traditional gifts such as steins, flasks and clocks to engraving on glass, there’s something engravable for everyone.

The company goes beyond traditional engraving and personalization. If you’re looking for something fun and interesting, they can do that, too. Personalized flipflops are a cute way to mark an occasion such as a stagette or bridal shower, family reunion or team. They can also make your bowling ball or pool cue uniquely yours.

There are even wine coolers ready and waiting for your team name, business or special day. “Just ask us,” says Bob. “If it’s possible, we’ll do it.” Barker’s Trophies has highly skilled engravers that can handle any job — diamond-cut, lasered,

144

FineLifestyles

REGINA

routered, sublimated, sandcarved, hotstamped or silkscreened — with an artistic finishing touch.

operation to include the best equipment and latest methods, and they have decades of experience in the industry.

No matter what your need is, you’ll get dedicated professionals who are 100 per cent committed to ensuring the quality of their work at very competitive prices will give you a quality product at a good price with great service to boot. “Everything we do is in-house and on-location,” Bob says.

“Doing everything ourselves ensures the product we’re putting out to the customer is done with the utmost care.

We can also ensure the material we use is built to last.”

If you’re in the market for a gift, a sign or anything else to commemorate an event or occasion, consider Barker’s trophies. “We’re proud of the selection and service we offer to Saskatchewan,” says Bob. “We’ve got the expertise and equipment to create something special for your business, your league or your special occasion.” See the team at Barker’s Trophies from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.

It’s not just great service and products that sets Barker’s apart from all the rest.

Over the years, they’ve kept up with the times, constantly re-tooling their

BEST OF THE BEST

ABOVE: Bob Hischebett, owner

Barker’s Trophies Ltd. 433 Broad Street 306.949.0111 Barkerstrophies.com

Cucumber Ginger

FIZZES

INGREDIENTS •

12 oz. vodka

•

2 cucumbers, one peeled and coarsely chopped and the other thinly sliced

•

1 lime, cut into wedges

•

2 (750 ml) bottles of sparkling water

•

4 to 8 oz. ginger simple syrup

•

ice

1

Put vodka and chopped cucumber in a glass jug.

Refrigerate one hour. Strain and discard cucumber.

2 Fill eight tumblers with ice. Add four to five cucumber slices and one-and-a-half-ounces infused vodka to each glass. Squeeze a lime wedge into each. Top with sparkling water; stir in one to three ounces ginger simple syrup.

TIP To make ginger simple syrup, bring one cup of sugar and one cup of water to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring to ensure sugar dissolves. Add one 10-inch piece of ginger (peeled and cut into thin rounds) and simmer.

Let steep for at least 30 minutes before straining the syrup into an airtight container.

FineLifestyles

REGINA

145

STRAWBERRY

BASIL ojito

M

INGREDIENTS •

3 fresh strawberries, sliced

•

3 to 5 fresh basil leaves

•

2 oz. simple syrup

•

2 oz. white rum

•

crushed ice

•

club soda

1

Put strawberries at the bottom of a tall glass along with the basil leaves. Add simple syrup and muddle the mixture.

2 Stir in rum and top with crushed ice.

Add club soda until glass is filled.

Garnish with strawberry slices and basil leaves if desired.

146

FineLifestyles

REGINA

REGINA’S PREMIER GOLF DESTINATION Nestled in the scenic Qu’Appelle Valley and located 15 minutes northwest of Regina, Deer Valley is one of the finest golf courses in Saskatchewan. Guests and members can enjoy the idyllic setting of natural valley and prairie terrain, a clubhouse with a full service restaurant and elevated deck and patio. A fully stocked golf shop is staffed by CPGA professionals and four sets of tees on the course are maintained in championship condition.

10 DEER VALLEY RD LUMSDEN, SK • OFFICE 306.731.2306 • GOLF SHOP 306.731.1445 • DEERVALLEYGOLF.CA