Fine Lifestyles Summer 2014

FineLifestyles SUMMER 2014 | VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2

SASKATOON

WEIGHT NO MORE CONSULTING Live Free, Be Happy, Diet No More…

SASKATOON FASHION AND DESIGN FESTIVAL: BOLD AND BRIGHT A GLIMPSE OF THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS SPECIAL FEATURE

THE CLASSIC CONVERTIBLE

MARKETING SASKATOON’S FINEST PROPERTIES

Brett Scheidl 306.262.6689 brettscheidl@gmail.com

charmaine morriS 306.270.7172

reagan BaliSki ron BaliSki dan Bader 306.290.7377 306.221.0421 306.371.7760 charmaine@charmainemorris.ca reagan.baliski@Sasktel.net ronbaliskirealty@Sasktel.net dannybader@remax.net

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clark dziadyk 306.227.2036 clarkdziadyk@shaw.ca

Months before sunglass season begins, Joel and Stacy scrutinize 20,000 sunglass frames from the industry’s top brands.

Quality, trend, fit and customer feedback are important factors when choosing the final frames for our sunglass wall.

Our shop staff is fully-dialed.

They have the knowledge and experience to help you make the sunglass decision that’s right for you.

Only the very best frames make the cut. The 800 styles that you see on our sunglass wall have been hand-picked. They’re the best of the best.

first word With Fine Lifestyles editor ERIN LEGG

I

n our annual special edition profiling the best businesses and organizations throughout the Saskatoon region, we celebrate successful enterprise and highlight what it is about each business that sets it apart. This year’s Best of the Best feature puts the spotlight on people, products and services perfectly suited for your lifestyle.

We recently sat down with local business owner Debra Simons, founder of Weight No More Consulting. Simons has a remarkable spirit and passion for helping others on the path to health.

Read more about her and how she is helping to change lives in this issue’s cover story.

Saskatoon is known for its music scene. From this great city have emerged some memorable artists, and profiled in this issue are three local bands making a name for themselves. Fine Lifestyles also covered music lovers’ most anticipated festival of the year: the SaskTel Jazz Fest.

This year marked the third annual Saskatoon Fashion and Design Festival. Check out the stunning fashions from local designers and recap the creative and trend-setting event in our editorial coverage.

If you’re planning an exotic and out-of-the-ordinary vacation, why not consider the Galapágos Islands? In this issue’s travel article we take a peek into this spectacular South American archipelago. We continue our exploration into complementary healing therapies, and give you some of The Wine Guy’s perfect picnic ideas.

FineLifestyles SASKATOON

www.finelifestyles.ca Summer 2014 Volume 5 Issue 2 Editor Erin Legg erinl@finelifestyles.ca Art Direction Amber Moon (Senior), Lisa Redden (Associate) Design Deanne Bell, Natasha Burkholder Staff Writers Courtney Tait, Henny Buffinga, Melanie Furlong, Rebecca Henderson, Tobie Hainstock, Tori Stafford, Tonya Lambert, Trina Annand Cover Photography Heather Fritz Photography Heather Fritz, Lisa Landrie, Calvin Fehr, Candace M. Fox, David Stobbe Photography, EvansPhotography, Jeremy Power Regimbal, Mark Maryanovich, Mark Tiu, Megan Antoniuk Photography, Nadine Peppler, Paul Wilson Contributing Writers Candace M. Fox, Karin Melberg Schwier, Paul Wilson, Rebecca Schneidereit, Sarah Vermette, Sherry Lee, The Wine Guy Sales Manager Crystal Reich 306.222.7102 Advertising Consultants Brooke Watson, Jacob Dietrich, Jason Booker, Kim Cory Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca finemags

@finemags

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

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

Fine Magazines does not assume liability for content.

Crystal Reich, Advertising Sales Manger 306.222.7102 crystal@finelifestyles.ca

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Jason Booker 306.290.8487 jason@finelifestyles.ca

Kim Cory 306.270.6423 kimc@finelifestyles.ca

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.

Mike has an Inventory of Pre-Approved Buyers Mike’s database of “Buyers in Waiting” has hundreds of “Pre-Approved Buyers” that are ready to buy when they see the home that meets their needs … Yours may just be that one.

You don’t want to just list your home, you want a buyer for your home.

Mike may have a buyer for your home before it ever hits the market!

He’s so confident that he can find a buyer for your home within 49 days or less he’ll pay YOU up to $3,000 if it doesn’t.

Mike’s guarantee sale program works like this: 1. Mike will market your home aggressively to our special database of buyers and through the many marketing methods he has created.

2. In the unlikely event that your home does not sell within 49 days or less Mike will pay you up to $3,000.

3. NO GIMMICKS

For more details Call Mike at 306.668.1800 to arrange for a personal interview.

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CONTENTS STYLE ..................................................... 8 HEALTH & WELLNESS .......................13 ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ... 27

38

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL...38 HOUSE & HOME ..................................41 BUSINESS ............................................56 WHEELS .............................................. 60 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT ................64

included beautiful dance performances and bottle throwing/flame blowing entertainment via Eliteand Bartending.

Saskatoon Fashion Design Festival ....................................... 8

Casual POSE

It was a battle of the storm clouds for the COVER: Weight More Consulting ..............

22 finale of No the festival.

Despite some overcast weather, the River Landing festivities went A Glimpse the Galรกpagos Islands ... 38 as planned.ofStudents from the Academy of Fashion Design and designers Jaycee Special Feature: Best of the Best ..... 67 Wall, Amaranth Designs, Melissa Squire, Hillberg & Berk, Laurie Brown and Rebecca King sent models out in casual lines. Performances from One Yoga, 6 FineLifestyles Abiding Lines Dance Company and Move SASKATOON

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Your home is a beautiful thing Prestige is a beautiful match

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Bold Fashion and Bright designers:

S F D F ’ S T h i r D A n n u A l FA S h i o n F e S T i vA l

By Candace M. Fox Photos Mark Tiu

I

t was a mix of new faces and a return of some favourite veteran fashion designers for the third annual Saskatoon Fashion & Design Festival’s fourday fashion extravaganza, held May 29 through June 1. Utilizing the fashion festival’s 2014 campaign theme, “Diversity in Fashion,” event attendees saw new collaborations with local artists and, most notably, students and teachers from Saskatoon’s Academy of Fashion Design.

INFashion at Midtown Plaza It was styling 101 at the Midtown Plaza on day one as emcee Kevin Stanfield kept the crowd entertained with laughter and prizes. With Nicole Romanoff styling three female models and three male models of various ages, the crowd could see a full spectrum of styling advice that applied to everyone. Romanoff utilized her rack of clothing goodies to mix and match items, dress up and down, as well as accessorize the models in their base outfits. The session moved onto hair and makeup as the three female models let Tammy McLean of Angles SalonSpa change their looks from day to night in minutes.

Green Ark Mingling As a festival kick-off, SFDF hosted guests, designers, sponsors and collaborators at Green Ark Collected Home. The modern furniture store was also the

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location where fashion illustrator, Rachael Meckling, in collaboration with Momentum and SFDF, had on display a collection of her fun and frivolous prints.

As guests enjoyed finger foods provided by the Bell n’ Whistle, sipped on wine and listened to the spinning styles of The Gaff, they were able to meet the organizers and Meckling herself.

On the RUNWAY

Saskatoon’s most coveted fashion event returned on day three with even more dramatic fashions for guests to enjoy, as the Mercedes-Benz Saskatoon dealership was transformed into a combination pop-up shop, fashion show and ultra-lounge. Live mannequins set the tone, modelling works by Parson’s School of Design graduate, Breanne Harrison-Pollock. Guests mingled, sipped and nibbled before taking their seats to watch the fashion unfold as designers Hillberg & Berk, Textstyle Queen, Rebecca King, Kristy Huck, Amaranth Designs, Laurie Brown, Heather Brigidear, Melissa Squire and C’est Danine Designs showcased looks down the runway, with designer Dean Renwick closing the show with a fabulous finale. Models sported hair with bobby pins made to look like hair accessories and flawless makeup, all provided by the guru stylists and makeup artists at CHEL salonspa.

Emcee duties were once again given to the lovely and animated Heather Morrison, and runway intermissions

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included beautiful dance performances and bottle throwing/flame blowing entertainment via Elite Bartending.

Casual POSE

It was a battle of the storm clouds for the finale of the festival. Despite some overcast weather, the River Landing festivities went as planned. Students from the Academy of Fashion Design and designers Jaycee Wall, Amaranth Designs, Melissa Squire, Hillberg & Berk, Laurie Brown and Rebecca King sent models out in casual lines. Performances from One Yoga, Abiding Lines Dance Company and Move N Soar kept the crowd entertained, while many also took the opportunity to browse and shop the various tents of designers and vendors, and enjoy tasty food truck treats and music entertainment via DJ Anchor.

Emcee for day was Leisha Grebinski, who engaged the crowd in some interactive giveaways before eventually saying “adios” as the fashion show came to a close—just as the clouds parted and warm sun came out.

The proceeds from this year’s event were given to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. For more information on the society, their mission or how you can help visit: www.llscanada.org.

The SFDF crew sends out a warm “thankyou” to all attendees, volunteers and sponsors who make each year possible with their contribution and support!

Sponsors/Event Partners: Midtown Plaza, Mercedes-Benz of Saskatoon, CHEL salonspa, Momentum, White Dhalia, Dutch Growers Fashion, Tonic, Sica Films, local print media, Unique Lighting, Hub City Display, Pro Plus Productions, The Carriage House, Fresh Living, International Furniture Warehouse, Bell n’ Whistle, Green Ark Collected Home, Balloonatic YXE, Abiding Lines Dance Company, Elite Bartending, Move N Soar, Bacardi, Great Western Brewery, One Yoga, ZICO and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Special Thanks: Mandy Pravda, Jacqueline Conway, Candace Fox, Nicole Romanoff, Jennifer Machnee, Alisha Edgelow, Rachael Meckling, Jenna Langford, Trianna Palidwor, Sunjita Kapoor, Kate Matthews, Laura Langen, Kevin Stanfield, Heather Morrison, Leisha Grebinski, Erin Crooks Photography, Lisa Hallam Makeup Artistry, Mark Tiu, Danielle Larson, Torry Dirpaul, The Gaff, DJ Anchor, volunteers, models and designers.

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SASKATOON

A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN

123 2ND AVENUE SOUTH - SASKATOON www.scotiacentre.com HOURS Monday to Saturday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm | Open until 9:00 pm Thursday

Convenient Underground Parking Available 306.665.6120

DR. JOHN S. MACPHERSON - DENTIST | ETHOS SALONSPA & BARBER | GENTRIES | KLASSIQUE DESIGNS LA PREP | MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS | POINT OPTICAL | SASKTEL | 2ND AVE GRILL | SHEILA’S STATE OF THE ART FLOWERS

100 YEARS OF

Luxury Dry Cleaning

F

or a century, Saskatoon residents have been relying on

Arthur Rose as the premiere dry cleaning business in town.

Arthur Rose offers its clientele superb customer service and pays extra attention to the fine details, garnering the historic company a loyal customer base.

For all your garment, drapery and bedding cleaning, wedding gown preservation, alterations and repairs, stop in to Arthur Rose and discover how the company has serviced Saskatoon residents for the past 100 years.

Arthur Rose Fabricare & Fine Dry Cleaning 321 4th Avenue North Saskatoon 306.652.3344

The

Vast

Worldof

Complementary Health Part 2 of 3

I

BY SARAH VERMETTE

t’s not uncommon to find certain complement ar y t herapies being offered in hospitals and conventional health programs, such as cancer clinics offering meditation and acupuncture, to help patients manage pain and side effects of treatment.

In part two of this three-part series, we’re looking at four complementary therapies that are often used in conjunction with western medicine.

Each of these can also be widely beneficial as stand alone therapies.

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Acupuncture Acupuncture began in China and has been used there for over 2,000 years. It is one of the oldest medical procedures in the world that is still being practiced.

Though acupuncture has been used in North America for a few hundred years, it has only become popular in the past few decades.

An acupuncturist inserts very thin needles through the skin at certain points on the body to help restore the flow of energy, called qi (pronounced chee).

Sometimes the needles are connected to a small machine that emits electrical pulses through the tips.

Qi, the vital energy (life force), flows through the body along a network of channels called meridians, and affects a person's spiritual, emotional, mental and physical health. Qi has two life forces, called yin and yang, which are opposite forces that work together to form a whole.

Biofeedback The word "biofeedback" was coined in the late 1960s to describe laboratory procedures then being used.

Biofeedback is a technique in which people are trained to improve their health by using signals from their own bodies. Clinicians rely on machines that act as a kind of sixth sense, allowing patients to recognize activity inside their bodies.

One commonly used type of machine picks up electrical signals in the muscles and translates these signals into a form, such as a flashing light, that the client and practitioner can detect. The practitioner then works with the patient until they learn how to adjust their internal responses.

Clients can be taught relaxation exercises, learn how to identify what triggers their symptoms, and how to avoid or cope with stressful events. Biofeedback helps clients learn how to remedy some physical ailments and empowers them to take responsibility for maintaining their own health.

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Osteopathy Osteopathic philosophy embraces the notion that the body is naturally able to heal itself. The practitioner of traditional osteopathy works with the body to enhance this natural ability to self-regulate and self-heal.

Palpation is a diagnostic skill that the practitioner uses to feel or sense the state of the tissues or systems being examined. This sense encompasses the many sensory aspects of touch, such as the ability to detect moisture, texture, temperature and subtle motion. With experience, practitioners learn to palpate not just superficially, but also very deeply within the body.

The ability to detect a variety of compromised tissue qualities allows the practitioner to prioritize a patient's course of treatment. It is this sensing of the quality of the tissue, in combination with the position, mobility and vitality of the tissues, that allows the osteopathic practitioner to determine the tissues or systems that need immediate attention.

Reiki Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Reiki treats the whole person, including body, emotions, mind and spirit, creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and well-being.

It is administered by laying on hands, and is based on the idea that an unseen life force energy flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's life force energy is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.

Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and selfimprovement that everyone can use. It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and malady. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.

Be sure to check the next issue for part three of this series, where we will discuss complementary therapies that treat a wide array of symptoms with the use of ingested or inhaled substances.

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ExpErt AdviCE Practice Prevention

Jeff Brousseau B.Sc. (P.T.), Dip. Manip. P.T., F.C.A.M.T. BROUSSEAU Physical Therapy Prof. Corp.

#207-3502 Taylor Street East Saskatoon 306.477.4881

T

hroughout the long, cold winter, Canadians wait anxiously for the sunny days of summer vacation when they can retreat to the lake and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Whether you love to canoe, golf, jog or cycle, or you are a waterskiing and wakeboarding enthusiast, summer holidays are a time of great fun.

Unfortunately, for some, summer can also be a time of sore, aching muscles brought about by a long, sedentary winter followed by improper warm-ups before embarking on these energetic activities.

The importance of adequately preparing your muscles and joints for various recreational activities cannot be stressed enough. After the age of 18, the body begins to lose elasticity making it

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increasingly necessary to warm up the muscles before engaging in athletic pursuits. When warming-up, you should start slowly and, through a smooth, easy progression, gradually increase to more challenging intensity prior to starting the activity. For example, golfers should consider taking several minutes of light club swinging, ensuring that the body feels supple prior to hitting the shot off the first tee. If you are planning on participating in an activity, such as waterskiing or wakeboarding, that requires a strong initial exertion, then more active exercises should be incorporated into your warmup in order to increase your heart rate and allow the joints to be more lubricated to avoid injury. Knee bends, skipping or running on the spot are all great for this.

Remember to consider that the most important time to stretch is after performing the activity. This can help prevent restrictions that develop within the tissues. If after engaging in recreational activity and performing the post-activity stretch, you find that your body feels sore or your muscles are aching the next day then wait until you are no longer sore before participating in your sport again.

Recovery is often overlooked and lack of sufficient recovery can result in short term and chronic issues. However, if the pain and inflammation do not go away within a few days, you should consider a visit to a physical therapist.

Physical therapists are skilled at increasing the mobility of the connective tissues that can become restricted as the result of inactivity, increased activity, over-activity or trauma. The physical therapists at BROUSSEAU Physical Therapy focus on Myofascial Release as a means of restoring myofascial length and recovering joint mobility, thus relieving pain and soreness.

Their therapists may also prescribe stretching and/or strengthening exercises, postural corrections, ergonomic advice and education on movement patterns to avoid re-injury. In the calming atmosphere and healing environment at BROUSSEAU Physical Therapy, help is provided for people of all ages with both acute and chronic conditions to improve their quality of life and reduce their pain.

So go out and enjoy the all-too-short Saskatchewan summer but be sure to prepare your muscles and joints properly before jumping on that bicycle or into that canoe that has been sitting in your shed all winter, and remember to follow your activity with appropriate stretching afterwards. If you don’t, resulting pain and inflammation may put an end to your summer fun until you have sought out the care of a physical therapist.

Jeff has recently returned from the Canadian Physiotherapy National Orthopaedic Symposium where he was asked to present on Myofascial Release.

Dr. Damara Rayner Dr. Shaun Brakstad Dr. Meghan Goodman

Dr. Jocelyne Hodgson Dr. Shawn Mamer Dr. Tom Carlson

HOURS Mon–Thurs 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

LOCATION Bay 1–50 Kenderdine Road (adjacent to Extra Foods)

306.978.6588 www.kenderdine-dental.ca

Planning for a Miracle

Lisa Wass owner Birth Rhythms Pregnancy and Parenting Health Centre 306.683.0811 birthrhythms@shaw.ca www.birthrhythms.ca |

B

irth is part reason, part mystery.

How can we possibly plan for every little detail of an event when we don’t even know when the festivities will begin? Yet the urge is irresistible. Hospital bag checklists, frozen meal plans, shopping for adorable baby clothes, and mountains of well-meaning advice consume us as we approach this universal experience.

achieve the birth experience they desire.

These women want to own their birth experience; they are not ready to just let it happen to them. They want a road map, alternate routes, tools and skills that will make the journey easier. Additionally, they act on their desires by asking questions, facing fears, and seeking other sources of information to make the choice that’s right for them.

Owning the exPerience Yet every birth is unique, and each woman has the power to decide what the first moments will be like. Twenty years as a doula has shown me that those moments are actually determined long before women feel those first contractions. I have seen numerous strong women prepare and

we carry the stOries Of Others This birth experience predetermination occurs whether or not you invest yourself in the process. We all carry our notions of birth, pain and parenting: those terrible or joyous birth stories that we have been told by other mothers, sisters, aunts and girlfriends. Can we trust

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our bodies to actually do this thing it was created to do?

Regardless of how you plan, your experience will be unique to you. I am not saying every woman can plan herself a quick, painless birth, or that events will always go as planned. ask questiOns and challenge assuMPtiOns What do you really want from your birth?

What is within your power to control and what is not? Once you have answered these questions, you can embrace the process and the miracle of receiving your precious child into your arms. Welcome to the journey.

EXPERT ADVICE Staying Healthy This Summer

A FEW OF THE WORST SUMMER TREATS INCLUDE:

HERE ARE A COUPLE HEALTHIER, DELICIOUS HOMEMADE TREATS:

•

7-Eleven Double Gulp (2L of cola): 534 calories, 130g sugar (30 tsp)

•

Dairy Queen small Oreo Blizzard: 620 calories, 11g saturated fat, 0.5g trans fats, 67g sugar

Fruit Popsicles Dice a variety of fruits (such as strawberries, raspberries, kiwi and pineapple). Add them to popsicles trays, then fill with fresh pineapple or orange juice. Add popsicle sticks and freeze.

•

Dairy Queen small Vanilla Shake: 540 calories, 14g saturated fat, 1g trans fats, 67g sugar

•

Tim Hortons medium Iced Capp: 220 calories, 46g sugar (astronomical sugar count)

•

Starbucks tall Java Chip Frappuccino (without whip): 240 calories, 44g sugar, 0.1g trans fat from the whole milk

Dr. Joanne Dawe, HBSc. ND Remedies Natural Health 708 2nd Avenue Saskatoon 306.934.1955 contact@remediesnaturalhealth.com www.remediesnaturalhealth.com

S

ummer is here and so are those delicious high calorie summer treats. While it is not a problem to occasionally indulge in treats such as a Grande Frappuccino or Dairy Queen Blizzard, if they are a large part of your summer diet, it can be a bit of a problem. Most sweet summer treats are extremely high in sugar. Once sugar stores are full, the body converts the rest to fat for storage. This can lead to unwanted weight gain, especially around the abdomen, which in turn can affect hormone levels causing fatigue, increased risk of heart disease and diabetes, elevated cholesterol levels and a general feeling of being unwell. Even slender individuals are not immune, as they can have hidden abdominal fat surrounding the internal abdominal organs.

SOME BETTER OPTIONS: •

Tim Hortons small Mocha Iced Coffee: 110 calories, 13g sugar

•

Booster Juice Tropi Kale (255mg): 145 calories, 26.5g sugar (high in sugar, but they are made with real fruit, which has some nutrients)

•

Starbucks tall Frappuccino: 180 calories, 36g sugar, 0.1g trans fat from the whole milk (compared to the Tim Hortons Iced Capp)

If these treats make up a larger part of your diet, follow your good sense: avoid the whipped topping, go for the smaller size and avoid added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Even better, try some homemade treats to control ingredients and quantity.

Iced Vanilla Coffee/Frappuccino (dairy-free) • ½ cup unsweetened vanilla Almond Breeze • ¼ cup dairy-free ice cream (vanilla or cappuccino) • ½ tsp instant coffee • 1 ice cube Blend everything. Add a pinch of cinnamon if desired. Depending on ice cream, this treat is approximately 65 to 120 calories, 3.5 to 6.5g sat fat and 1 to 6g sugar.

At Remedies Natural Health, we combine naturopathic medicine with certain diagnostic tests to help ascertain the root cause of your health concerns. Live and dried blood analysis provides an overall sense of blood cell health, immune system health, major organ stress and even hormone imbalances. Thermography is a non-invasive test that uses skin temperature to determine how well the body regulates in response to stressors.

Our thermogram measures 119 points, scanning breast tissue, teeth and major organs. For nutritional advice or to see how these tests can help in your health goals, call for an appointment.

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Making your life easier at the most difficult time Y

ou are unique. Your life is unlike any other. By pre-planning your final arrangements now you can choose the options that reflect the way you wish to be remembered. You will save thousands of dollars and protect your family from uncertainty and stress about your final wishes.

Take the steps to receive your free, no obligation pre-planning kit. Call now. If you have already pre-arranged all or a portion of your final wishes with another service, ask how they may be easily transferred to our all in one facility.

How do you want to be remembered?

HILLCREST MEMORIAL RR5 Site 510 Box 2

East on 8th street turn right at the railroad tracks and watch for the sign

306.716.4199 | hillcrestmemorial.ca

EXPERT ADVICE Mommy Makeover

changes that women see in their bodies — excess or loose abdominal skin, stretch marks, or breasts that have started to sag or have lost their pre-pregnancy volume — are often best corrected by surgery.

Dr. Ian R. Sunderland cosmetic plastic surgeon 602-750 Spadina Cres. E Saskatoon, SK 306.653.7766 www.drsunderland.ca

WHAT IS A “MOMMY MAKEOVER”?

The term mommy makeover describes the common surgical procedures used to improve the changes women see with their bodies after pregnancy and childbirth.

Typically, a mommy makeover involves a tummy tuck and a breast augmentation and/or breast lift, though additional procedures may also be considered.

WON’T DIET AND EXERCISE BE ENOUGH? Diet and exercise are very successful in getting rid of extra fat after pregnancy. However, some of the other

HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED A BREAST AUGMENTATION OR A BREAST LIFT? Women often find their breasts lose volume and appear deflated after pregnancy and childbirth.

Breast augmentation restores lost volume by placing a breast implant. However, many women also find their breasts begin to sag, with the nipple position appearing lower on the breast. Because of this, a majority of women will find the greatest benefit with a breast lift in conjunction with breast augmentation.

WILL THERE BE SCARS? Yes. Scars are an unfortunate but unavoidable consequence of improving the shape and contour of the breasts and abdomen.

However, every effort will be made to hide and minimize scars to the best extent possible.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TUMMY TUCK AND A “MINI” TUMMY TUCK? A full tummy tuck gets rid of a larger amount of excess abdominal tissue, and therefore involves a larger scar. The scar goes across the entire lower abdomen, from one hip bone to the other, though it can usually

be concealed beneath underwear or a bathing suit. There is also a scar around the belly button. A “mini” tummy tuck is for individuals with a smaller amount of excess tissue. The lower abdominal scar is shorter, and there is no belly button scar.

Tightening of the abdominal muscles is usually a component of both procedures, and liposuction is commonly used as an adjunct procedure.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HAVE A MOMMY MAKEOVER? The best results will be seen if the procedures are done once a woman has had children and has no further plans for additional pregnancies.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT MY CONSULTATION? During your initial consultation your plastic surgeon will take a medical history and perform a physical examination with a specific focus on your area of concern. The surgeon will then discuss with you whether or not he or she feels you are a good candidate for a mommy makeover and make an individualized, tailored plan to best fit your needs and expectations.

It is important to only seek consultation from a surgeon who is certified in plastic surgery by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, the only national accrediting body (searchable database at www.royalcollege.ca/portal/page/portal/ rc/directory).

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Live Free Be Happy Diet No More: We care, been there!

Warman woman guides hundreds on weight loss journey to better health

By Karin Melberg Schwier Photos courtesy Weight No More

D

ebra Simons is the little engine that could. She’s just over five feet tall.

But after only a few minutes in her diminutive presence, it’s clear she is of giant heart, determination and caring in the struggle for better health for people who battle obesity. As director and CEO of Weight No More Consulting, she has counseled and supported over 200 people in their quest for weight loss and good health through bariatric surgery.

“If I won the lottery, I would literally pay for every surgery,” she insists. “Bariatric surgery is one of the tools people can use to reclaim their lives and their health. But in Canada, people who do qualify face years-long wait times, and their health is failing by the day.”

Debra isn’t talking about people who have a few extra pounds to take off, and she bristles at those who feel obesity is simply the result of laziness and a lack of self-control. It’s increasingly understood that obesity is a complex medical problem that involves genetic, environmental, behavioural and social factors.

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CHERYL’S TREK TO BETTER HEALTH I battled my weight for the last 17 years. I lost control over the years watching the numbers on the scale climb.

I had serious health problems, and was on five different medications to control high blood pressure and cholesterol.

I tried to lose weight on my own using every diet known to man only to gain it back plus more. In June 2013, I reached my highest weight ever. I was 34 and scared I wouldn’t make it to 40.

I am lucky to be married to a very sweet and supportive man. One of his co-workers told him about Weight No More Consulting. He got the number and encouraged me to call.

Now, almost 10 months later after my surgery, I’m 200 pounds down and still losing. I went from a size 30 (5X) to a size 12/14 or (XL). Debra and her team are a godsend.

Debra holds your hand from the very first phone call.

The whole process was amazing, and as non-stressful as surgery can be. Now, not only can I shop at any store I want, I can run, jump, go bicycling, work out at the gym, all the things I have wanted to do for the last 17 years. I’ve gained the tools and information I need to make the proper decisions to stay healthy. I can’t say thank you enough to Deb and her team for saving my life.

— Cheryl Rossin

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“We’re not doing this for vanity,” says Debra, who had her own surgery in 2010.

“What people want is to be healthy, and to stay alive. When I was 286 pounds, I was on five different medications for high blood pressure, acid reflux, water retention, depression and high cholesterol.

My doctor wanted to start me on Type 2 diabetes medication. I couldn’t even go to the park with my grandchildren.”

Following her own surgery, Debra felt there were aspects missing, including ongoing post-operative support. So in order to help others, she established Weight No More. After a lot of research, she chose the INT Hospital in Tijuana, Mexico and a stellar team of bariatric surgeons led by Dr. Jaimie Ponce DeLeon and Dr. Eulices Frayre. Together they have over 30 years of surgical experience, and have performed over 10,000 successful weight loss procedures. “I have every confidence in Dr. Ponce DeLeon, his team and this hospital,” says Debra.

“Our clients are treated with the utmost courtesy and respect.”

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L-R Randy (OR nurse), Dr. Frayre, Dr. Ponce De Leon, Dr. Sanchez

In order to be considered for bariatric surgery, a client must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Bariatric surgery, which includes vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is the removal of about 85 per cent of the stomach including the fundus and the gland that secretes ghrelin, the hunger hormone. The “new” stomach

continues to function normally, but the quantity clients are able to consume afterward is greatly reduced. It is not a guarantee against future weight gain, which is why Debra offers not only sideby-side support during surgery, but also pre-op and post-op support and counseling.

This fall, she is adding a 12-week program

BRIAN’S LIFE-SAVING JOURNEY I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in 2005, and my life began catching up with me. When my weight ballooned to 354, I had developed acid reflux and sleep apnea. My smorgasbord of pills no longer achieved results. My blood pressure and blood sugar were up. My doctor urged me to check into gastric bypass surgery. I discovered the wait period was five years. Five years to have surgery in my own province? Unbelievable and oh so wrong! In April of 2014 it was discovered I now had an afib, a heart flutter. It didn’t take a genius to see where this was going.

A chance encounter with a client of Debra Simons’ Weight No More Consulting put me squarely on the path to a totally different life. I went to Mexico and had a 45-minute laparoscopic surgery. The biggest surprise was when the medical team explained to me they found a tumour. That precluded doing the sleeve, but they removed the tumour along with 80 per cent of my stomach.

In the two months since surgery I’ve lost 70 pounds. I no longer have any reason for medications and returned my unused prescriptions to the pharmacy. I’ve gone from wearing 4XL to XL, and I walk eight kilometres a day at a blistering pace. I feel great, and with 60 pounds to go, I should be able to start shopping for new permanent clothing by fall.

I’ve been so impressed with Debra’s emphasis on pre- and post-surgery care for her clients that I’m training to become a facilitator for Weight No More Consulting. From diet, to exercise, to psychological insights, Debra Simons has every angle covered.

— Brian Trainor

Brian Trainor’s after photo courtesy of Heather Fritz FineLifestyles

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DEBRA IS HEALTHY & HAPPY I was always athletic. When I quit sports and had my first baby, I gained a lot and then I didn’t lose it. So I had that weight and more with my next baby. I went to TOPS and Weight Watchers, and I’d lose the weight, but then I’d gain it back and more.

I said to my husband one day, “I feel like your 90-year old grandma.

Look at all the medications lined up on the counter.” I was on pills for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, water retention, acid reflux as well as anti-depressants. I was 286 pounds and my doctor wanted to put me on Type 2 diabetes meds, too. I hated myself and thought I was a loser. I couldn’t control what I was putting in my mouth as I was hungry all the time. I didn’t want to attend family functions, go out with my husband or see anyone. I wanted to hide away in my house where no one could ridicule me, point at me and think I was lazy. If we ever did go out to a restaurant, I felt people were thinking, “What is she doing here?” I felt I was a failure.

I lost my mom to cancer and I promised her on her deathbed that I would get healthy. I had to keep that promise. I researched weight loss surgery for over four years and finally decided it was time I took my health into my own hands.

In 2010, I had gastric sleeve surgery. For me, bariatric surgery is a blessing. I am down 130 pounds, off all those medications and only take vitamins. The most important fact is I am healthy and happy. I can play with my grandchildren, I can go out and hold my head high, and people aren’t pointing at me and laughing any longer. I am proud of my accomplishments and my goal now is to help others become healthy and happy.

— Debra Simons Debra Simon’s after photo courtesy of Heather Fritz

with former nurse, nutritional expert and life coach Barb Maduck.

Weight No More offers bariatric surgeries, cosmetic plastic surgeries, hair transplants, and dental work at the INT Hospital. Debra handles all arrangements and a facilitator travels with clients for bariatric and cosmetic procedures. The company has six facilitators – Heather, Karen, Ramona and Brian in Saskatoon, Tess in Regina, and Jeni in Winnipeg.

“There are still a lot of misinformed people who think surgery is the easy way out,” says Debra. “There is nothing easy about having major surgery. This is a life-altering decision and not one of our clients has regretted it for a minute.

I’m not down to where I need to be yet, L-R TOP-BOTTOM Heather, Jeni, Karen, Brian, Ramona, Tess

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but I am healthy. I was wearing a size 26. Now I can wear a 10/12. I am off every single one of those medications.

My doc said I just glow now,” she smiles.

“I know I can help other people change their lives, too.”

Weight No More Consulting Limited Debra Simons 29-100 Brooklyn Lane, Warman 306.343.0907 Toll free 1.855.343.0907 (in the U.S. and Canada) weightnomoreconsulting@gmail.com Debra@weightnomoreconsulting.com www.weightnomoreconsulting.com

JULY 9-AUGUST 24 Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Next to Mendel Art Gallery JULY 31-AUGUST 9 PotashCorp Fringe Theatre Festival Various Venues

events S A S K AT O O N

JULY–OCTOBER

AUGUST 14-16 Folk Fest Various Venues

AUGUST 21 SSO: Evening Under the Stars Whitecap Sports Centre AUGUST 29-30 PotashCorp Fireworks Festival River Landing and Rotary Park

SEPTEMBER 6 31st Annual Broadway Street Fair Broadway Avenue

SEPTEMBER 7 Saskatoon Bridal Showcase Prairieland Park

SEPTEMBER 11 Jann Arden TCU Place

SEPTEMBER 14 SSO: Evening at the Opera TCU Place

SEPTEMBER 25-27 Premier: Fine Wines & Spirits Showcase TCU Place SEPTEMBER 29 SSO: Overture Delta Bessborough Hotel

OCTOBER 3-5 Women’s World 2014 Prairieland Park

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The

Perfect

Picnic

by The Wine Guy

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Curry-Lime Pork Kebabs Just before you are leaving for your picnic, cover these with a quick squeeze of lime and a small bunch of chopped cilantro.

•

Skewers

• 1/2 lb. pork tenderloin,

cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 onion, cut like into

•

cut in half

• 2 Tbsp. plain Greek-

style yogurt

T

My choice is usually something on the BBQ, as the next day char gives me the perfect excuse to open a cheeky bottle of fruity French red - something along the lines of a Brouilly or Beaujolais-Villages, made with the Gamay grape. Maison Joseph Drouhin is a master of these wines, which are available at most stores.

• 1/2 Tbsp. soy sauce • 1 tsp. ground turmeric

• 4 large white mushrooms,

he basic ingredients are the same: a little to eat, a little to drink, a soft blanket, and someone (usually me) to carry it all. There is a lot to be said for the “impromptu picnic,” but you could, of course, make things run a little smoother by preparing your feast ahead of time.

• 1 tsp. light brown sugar

• 8 cherry tomatoes

segments (like an orange)

There is no such thing as the one, “perfect” picnic, because if you ask me all picnics are fantastic but it’s always worth a try!

• 1/2 Tbsp. curry powder

pinch ground corriander

• 1/2 lime, juice and zest • salt and pepper to taste • chopped cilantro • vegetable oil

Whisk together the yogurt, curry powder, brown sugar, soy sauce, turmeric, lime juice, zest, coriander and salt. Place the cubed pork in a large resealable bag, pour in the marinade to coat the meat, and place in the fridge for at least an hour.

Thread skewers with a balance of the pork, tomatoes, mushrooms and onion. Lightly dress with oil and season with pepper.

Grill a medium-hot BBQ until the pork is cooked through, 12 to 15 minutes, turning as needed (let it char, not burn).

After they have cooled, place them into the fridge in a sealed container.

Quinoa and Chickpea Saskatoon Salad The key to any quinoa and chickpea salad is in the dressing.

• 1 cup dry quinoa

• 1/2 cup chopped parsley

• 1 ¾ cups of water

• 1/2 cucumber, chopped into

• 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas

quarter slices

• 1 lemon, juiced

There can’t be any better accompaniment to our Saskatchewan picnic than a salad made from home-grown grains! A chickpea and quinoa salad screams to be paired with the fresh minerality of a Canadian Riesling. You could also get away with one of the fantastic fruit wines from our local producers, Living Skies or Cypress Hills wineries.

• 2 carrots, diced

What’s the final piece to the perfect picnic puzzle? Pie, of course! Any and every piece of pie deserves to be washed down with a palate-cleansing Prosecco from Italy, especially if it’s the lighter, less fizzy frizzante style. Look for one from the Canella winery if you can find it.

Rinse the quinoa in a fine sieve under cold running water. Combine the quinoa and water in a pot. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce the heat to simmer for about 15 minutes. Take the pot off the heat, and leave it for another 15 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

There you have it: a perfect little picnic! Just add a meadow, forest or riverbank, sunshine and smiles. Oh … and a corkscrew!

• 2 scallions, sliced thinly • 1 bell pepper

(any colour), diced

• Double-dash of Saskatoon

berry vinaigrette

• Salt and cracked pepper,

to taste

Mix in chickpeas and veggies. Finish with the lemon juice, Saskatoon berry vinaigrette and salt and pepper. TIP: If you are making this the day ahead, save the cucumber and parsley until the morning of your picnic.

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A Cut Above the Rest

By Tobie Hainstock

R

Photos Heather Fritz

emember the days when you could walk into your local butcher shop and get high quality meat cut to your specification? You knew the meat was fresh and you trusted the impeccable standards of the butcher and his staff.

Those days have not slipped by the wayside. For more than 32 years, Victor Boryski has been working in the meat industry. “I grew up in Prince Albert.

When my wife (Susan) went to Saskatoon to attend university, I started working at Mitchell’s Gourmet Meats,” he recalls.

Boryski found that working in a field where he was helping families have quality meat for their dinner table was very rewarding. On December 7, 1981, Boryski’s Butcher Block opened its doors, bringing top-quality meats and service like the good old days when you were greeted with a friendly smile.

As the business grew, new outlets popped up in various parts of the city. Eventually, Boryski decided to have one main location to serve customers. Today he offers a wide range of services including meat cutting and butchering. The current store, at 2210 Millar Ave., offers about 5,000 sq. ft. of space for retail and other services.

Saskatoonians recognize Boryski’s as the ideal place to get fresh sausage. “We offer 32 varieties, including gluten-free,” he explains.

“We are famous for our farmer’s sausage and our beef jerky is the best in the world!”

It was a little over eight years ago that the catering service started. It’s been a great success and a very viable option for people in the Saskatoon area. “We like to keep the

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food simple,” says Boryski. “We give lots and we offer great quality.”

Able to accommodate any size of group, Boryski’s Butcher Block will go to your choice of venue, set up and even serve if requested. Affordable and delicious, Boryski’s is a great option for weddings, family gatherings, business parties and more.

Shopping at Boryski’s means you will leave smiling after experiencing Boryski’s infectious personality and passion for what he does. “I don’t like what I do ... I love what I do,” he comments. “I feel very blessed to be where I am.” It’s the fervour that he has for his work that makes Boryski’s Butcher Block stand out for quality and customer service.

Looking to barbecue at your next event?

Boryski’s has three full-sized and six smaller barbecues available to rent out for any occasion.

Boryski’s Butcher Block 7 – 2210 Millar Avenue Saskatoon 306.242.3456 www.boryski.com

VIC’S BEST PRIME RIB ROAST INGREDIENTS 5 – 6 lb roast Salt, pepper and garlic powder for seasoning METHOD Preheat oven to 500F (190C).

Combine salt, pepper and garlic powder. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan so the fatty side is up and rib side is down. Rub seasoning onto the roast.

Roast for one hour. Turn oven off and leave roast inside. Do not open oven door. Leave in oven for three hours.

Thirty to 40 minutes before serving, turn oven back on to 375F to reheat roast. The internal temperature should be 145F (62C). Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes before carving.

OPPOSITE PAGE Victor Boryski, owner

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Play it

Loud: A Glimpse into sAskAtoon’s music scene

By Tonya Lambert

S

askatoon is a small city that is home to an immense amount of musical talent. “Saskatoon is probably the best and most supportive community in music.

Everyone wants to see everyone else succeed,” explains Brandon Ziola, bass guitarist of the up-and-coming blues band, Apollo Cruz. Several bars in the city, such as Buds on Broadway, Louis’ Pub and Amigos Cantina, regularly feature live bands and some, like Buds, host weekly jam sessions.

Saskatoon breeds musical talent of all kinds, from the folk music of Joni Mitchell to the hard-core rock of Reignwolf. This city by the river has produced several interesting fusions, including Apollo Cruz’s self-styled “high-octane blues,” which Ziola describes as having “a rock attitude in blues format,” to what drummer Lucas Goetz calls The Deep Dark Woods’ “folk music-based songwriting fused with rock ‘n’ roll, r&b and improvised psychedelic rock.” These threads reflect the diversity of the local population and its common love of great music.

Last November, Saskatchewan Roughriders’ fans from across the province were treated to a Grey Cup concert by two Saskatoon music sensations, The Sheepdogs and One Bad Son, while in April, the city’s rock lovers thrilled when local boy Jordan “Reignwolf ” Cook, listed by Rolling Stone (January 2014) as one of 10 new artists to watch, tore up the stage in a wild opening act for Black Sabbath. In addition, Matt Barnes’ music video of The Sheepdogs’ “Feeling Good” won the Juno for Video of the Year.

This summer fans can enjoy watching The Deep Dark Woods perform at both the Ness Creek Music Festival (July 17 to 20) and The Gateway Festival at Bengough (July 25 to 27), while Apollo Cruz will be playing at the Jazz Festival, Taste of Saskatchewan and Saskatoon RibFest, and often performs at Buds.

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New music will be filling the airwaves in the coming months.

Apollo Cruz has been working with Josh Robinson of the Sound and Silence Collective to put together the band’s first album, which will hopefully be available on iTunes by the end of the summer. One Bad Son has plans to release a new album sometime this fall. “Our goal was to make the album that defines our career, and I think we’ve done that,” says drummer Kurt Dahl. “You never know how it will fare commercially and all that; all we know is that we made an album that pushed us to the limit creatively, musically, personally … and that’s all we can hope for. We’re really connecting as a band, and hopefully that comes across on this record.”

If you have a musical dream and are willing to work hard to make it a reality, Saskatoon is a supportive city with plenty of great role models to follow. The Deep Dark Wood’s Goetz has the following advice for the city’s aspiring musicians: “First of all, try to stay focused on the music—it’s obviously the best part. Tour lots, but tour smart. Don’t wear yourself out. It will make you a better musician: you’ll meet great friends and you’ll learn from them. Work hard and be patient. Most of my favourite musicians and bands made incredible records for years before they were noticed. If they were, at all.”

Regardless of whether you are playing in international arenas to sold-out crowds or in your parents’ living room to friends and family, it is the pleasure that music brings to you and your listeners that will make it all worthwhile.

TOP One Bad Son. Photo courtesy of Mark Maryanovich.

Middle The Deep Dark Woods.

Photo courtesy of Jeremy Power Regimbal.

BOTTOM Apollo Cruz. Photo courtesy of EvansPhotography

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SASKATCHEWAN JAZZ FESTIVAL

Hits All the High

NOTES

By Candace Fox

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10 Days, 140+ Live Performances, 9 Feature Shows, 15 Stages, 400+ Volunteers and 1 Amazing Festival

T

he staff of Jazz Fest work feverishly each year to present a festival that will blow the wheat off the farm fields (so to speak) of Saskatchewan. This year was no exception.

From June 20th to June 29th the city of Saskatoon was the backdrop for the province’s largest music festival and western Canada’s second largest festival of its kind. Spanning almost three decades in existence, the SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival has brought numerous major international artists, attracting the likes of both young and old to the festival’s TD Mainstage located in the Bessborough Gardens. With stages set up around the city and a bit of everything for everyone, the SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival has become a highlight and tourist attraction for the Bridge City.

This year’s mix of artists made for an eclectic mix of music and genres ― by no mistake. “That has been a long-term strategy for the Festival: to present jazz music in its diverse forms. Over the years we hope that people feel they can find jazz and much more at the Festival,” states Marketing Director, Jacqueline Conway.

This year’s TD Mainstage schedule saw performances by Colin James, opening the festival with Jack Semple & The Horn Dogs, and despite rain halfway through

Lauryn Hill performing on TD Maintstage.

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Royal Wood performing at Broadway Theatre.

the performance the crowd did not flinch, instead pulling out their umbrellas to enjoy the rest of the show. The ever-so-talented Ben Harper performed Saturday, June 21st with master of the electric blues harmonica, Charlie Musselwhite. Another sold out show included Sunday, June 22nd performance “An Evening with John Legend,” and while the rain was held at bay, Mr. Legend’s beautiful voice and soul-moving song lyrics made a for a few damp faces.

Monday, June 22nd found recent Saturday Night Live musical performer, St. Vincent, on stage with her vocal and instrumental talents (not to mention her fashion-forward stage style). The biggest anticipated performer of the 10 day festival was no doubt Ms. Lauryn Hill, and she did not disappoint. “The show itself was one of the most high-energy and entertaining shows we have produced. It’s rare to see

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everyone in the gardens on their feet, but she [did it]!” says Conway.

Saskatchewan Jazz Festival has become an

Canadian indie rock/pop duo Tegan and Sara played for a packed Bess Gardens Thursday, June 26th. The next evening was a Jazz enthusiast’s delight as the TD Mainstage heard the sweet sounds of soul jazz saxophonist Maceo Parker and New Orleans funk and jazz band, Galactic. The bass was turned up to max as hip-hop artist Common played in the Gardens, Saturday, June 28th. Keeping everyone on their toes and flirting with the crowd, the performance was another highlight for Jazz Fest.

many specifically visit just to catch in the

Closing the TD Mainstage on Sunday, June 29th was the Canadian blues legends and recent Juno winners, The Legendary Downchild Blues Band.

With so much talent and the city buzzing with amazing music, the SaskTel

event of interest to many visiting the city ― performances. “We are certainly becoming a tourist attraction and continuing that trend is something we hope to develop and improve through our communications and marketing strategy going forward,” explains Conway.

Already anticipating SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival 2015? Well the Jazz Fest team is keeping “mum” about any details or ideas thus far. But what we do know is we can expect more international artists, mixes of musical genres, and as many live performances that can be packed into a 10 day festival.

Make Your Wedding Memories With Us

Let our wedding specialists create the wedding of your dreams. Whether you are planning a small intimate gathering or an elaborate affair, our culinary food and beverage team will ensure a memorable experience. Inquire about Saskatoon’s hidden gem along Spadina Crescent.

Wedding packages include: • • • • • • • •

Complimentary banquet room with fully-catered dinner Choice of elegant plated or buffet style dinner Complete room set up, including napkins and tablecloths Complimentary fruit punch during pre-dinner reception Complimentary executive king room for the bride and groom on the evening of the wedding Special guest room rate for out of town guests Complimentary rehearsal or gift opening room Cutting of the wedding cake

Booking into 2015! To inquire or view our space contact Rose Eaton at 306.667.6068 or reaton@parktownhotel.com

Park Town Hotel 924 Spadina Crescent | Saskatoon | 306.244.5564 | www.parktownhotel.com

ON THE

WILD SIDE

A Glimpse of the Galรกpagos Islands

By Courtney Tait

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alking with giant tortoises, observing blue-footed boobies perform their mating dance, snorkelling with sea lions, and watching iguanas feast on flowers aren’t the daily activities of a paradise resort. But the Galápagos Islands — the South American archipelago where Charles Darwin gathered the data that inspired his theory of evolution — aren’t your typical vacation destination.

Made up of volcanic rock, desert-like vegetation, lava formations and forested highlands, the islands are located 1,000 kilometres from mainland Ecuador and draw over 100,000 visitors annually, many of whom come face-to-face with some of the rarest species on earth. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, Galápagos will undoubtedly fulfill your vision of paradise.

Volcanic landscapes and Fearless creatures When Darwin arrived to Galápagos in 1835, he was initially unimpressed, writing, “Nothing could be less inviting than the first appearance. A broken field of black basaltic lava is everywhere covered by a stunted brushwood, which shows little sign of life.” While the archipelago, which includes 13 main islands and seven smaller ones, features a landscape much more raw than you might expect in the tropics, its dramatic mix of cracked lava, rock pools, cacti forests, and fertile greenery display a unique beauty that’s almost as thrilling as the colonies of animals and birds that live amongst it… almost.

Whether you’re watching pink flamingoes searching for krill, sea lions relaxing on rocks, or flightless cormorants stretching their wings, you’ll be struck by how unperturbed the animals are by your presence. The islands were never connected to a major landmass, so all the animals endemic to Galápagos arrived by swimming or flying. Without large predators around (the giant tortoise is the biggest creature to settle there), the animals evolved without learning to fear them. For tourists, this means experiencing a multitude of up-close encounters and incredible photo opportunities.

Galápagos was granted World Heritage Status in 1978, and 97 per cent of the area is a national park. Humans inhabit five of the islands, and the growing population (recorded as 25,124 in 2010) is a threat to the archipelago’s fragile

BELOW Sally Lightfoot Crab, Blue-footed Booby, Giant Tortoise

the highlights No trip to Galápagos would be complete with seeing the giant tortoises for which the islands were named by early Spanish explorers. (‘Galapago’ means tortoise in Spanish.) Some companies will take you to a farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz, where you can see these endangered creatures — some of which exceed 1.5 metres in length — in the wild.

Isla Sante Fe boasts one of the best viewing spots for land iguanas, while San Salvador is home to hundreds of marine iguanas. Fur seals can also be spotted at San Salvador, and you can swim with them in pools that have formed under stone archways.

Watch out for nests built by blue-footed boobies on Isla Seymour, one of Galápagos’ best breeding grounds for seabirds. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a male blue-footed booby showing off his feet in a mating dance.

The coast of Plaza Sur is crowded with sea lions. Plenty of land iguanas are visible, and the island’s black cliffs are home to various seabirds and the rare Galápagos hawk.

The dark-red sand beach of Rábida is a lounging spot for sea lions, while further inland, flocks of pink flamingoes can be seen floating on a lake.

Caleta Tortuga Negra (Black Turtle Cove) is a tidal lagoon where green Pacific turtles mate.

Bartolomé features an outstanding view of craters, fields of dried lava and the sharply-peaked Pinnacle Rock. Excellent snorkelling around the rock gives the chance to see penguins as they hunt underwater. On the other side of the island, observe reef sharks within metres of the waters’ edge.

The largest of the Galápagos Islands, Isabela still has volcanic activity, with five cones visible. At Tagus Cove you can hike a path to see the island’s lava fields. Watch colonies of penguins and other seabirds along the cliffs.

Fernandina is the most westerly island in the Galápagos. Because it is so remote, it’s also one of the least visited, which makes it even more pristine.

Lava flows, the archipelago’s largest colony of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and penguins can all be observed here. ecosystem. Visitors must be accompanied by a guide, and the number of people that can visit a site at any given time is restricted. Itineraries vary between cruise companies, so it’s wise to consider which sites you most want to see before booking. If you can, give yourself at least a week to visit — you’ll need that much time to fully experience the variety of finned, winged and scaly species that await.

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Intrigued? If you take a trip to this spectacular archipelago, keep in mind it’s essential to be a conscientious tourist. Always stay within designated trails, and consider including in your trip’s budget a donation to Galapagos Conservancy or other organizations that are working to counter the impact of the human population and tourism on the islands.

By supporting conservation efforts, you can help keep Galápagos a place teeming with the extraordinary flora and fauna that sets it apart from everywhere else on the planet.

Time to

W

hether it’s the yard constantly beckoning your weeding skills, the kids wanting a new summer treat from the kitchen, or just the desire to escape the bustle of the city, reminding yourself that taking a break this summer is allowed. For a quick escape to recharge, a jaunt down Valley Road is just the thing.

Valley Road is one of the top agritourist destinations around. The valley is a lush, fertile location, and growers and residents

all share a passion for the environment.

This allows for the most gorgeous of plants and crops to be grown. Whether or not you have a green thumb yourself, it’s hard not to fall in love with the plants in the various greenhouses and the produce from the local farms. You just may find that certain plant that will complete the flower bed, or that shrub to fill that last empty spot in the yard.

If you’re looking to try something new, why not partake in some first-hand

harvesting: u-picking. There are a few locations on Valley Road where you can easily pass a day, reaping the rewards of hand-plucking the freshest, most delicious fruit. From raspberries to black currants, and strawberries to Saskatoon berries, Valley Road growers give visitors a chance to enjoy the juiciest fruit possible. Just think of what an opportunity it is to get fresh fruit all set for the cabin! Better yet, put the kids to work gathering fruit for a fresh summer treat.

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Strawberries “Fresh from our Fields” — U-pic or We-pic In 1981 the first crop of strawberries was planted. Thirty-three years later The Strawberry Ranch has become a household name. Ben and Ann Epp invite you to enjoy the fresh air, get a bit of exercise and acquire some juicy, sun-ripened strawberries that you pick yourself… so you know they’re fresh! Bring your own four-litre pail or use the baskets available. No time to pick? Let us pick them for you. Make that favourite strawberry shortcake, berry shake or homemade jam.

The first crop of strawberries is available in July, with the second in August to mid-September. Fresh sweet corn is also available in season!

The Maze: A Unique Summer Adventure With a new design each year, bring the family and puzzle your way through the cornfield of winding trails and dead ends. Test your knowledge with the trivia challenge. Pack a lunch and make a day of it. Fire pits and a picnic area are available.

Call first for updated daily picking information and maze hours throughout the season.

The Strawberry Ranch 325 Valley Road 306.384.4842 www.strawberryranch.ca

BEAUTIFY YOUR SURROUNDINGS AND ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY

Specializing in Complete Yard Construction At City Gardens we provide our customers with quality workmanship in a prompt, professional manner. Beautiful landscapes involve many decisions regarding design, plant selection, use of space, and quality of construction. At City Gardens we have the knowledge and experience to do the job right, from the planning stages through to the final product.

• Rough grading to ensure proper surface drainage • Finish grading • Sub-surface drainage • Paving stone • Retaining wall • Architectural grade landscape lighting

• Outdoor rooms • Outdoor fireplaces • Pergolas, privacy louvers, screened-in rooms • Irrigation system installation • Natural stone patios and pathways

• Mulch • Shrub and flower bed design and installation • Water features • Crushed rock and other decorative aggregates • Sod installation

306.280.6609

luke@city-gardens.ca | www.city-gardens.ca

Landscape Construction

WE’RE GROWING! Today, Fine Lifestyles Reaches Approximately 1.3 Million People

EDMONTON 270,000 RED DEER 110,000

YORKTON 60,000

SASKATOON 160,000

CALGARY 270,000

HALIFAX

KINGSTON

ST.JOHN’S

WINNIPEG

SASKATOON

REGINA

ST.JOHN’S 90,000

PARKLAND 60,000 WINNIPEG 270,000

SWIFT CURRENT 60,000 REGINA 160,000

ESTEVAN 30,000 WEYBURN 30,000

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COMING SOON!

SPRING 2015

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For more information, call: 306.540.3320 | www.finelifestyles.ca

The Value in Opportunity

By Rebecca Henderson Photos David Stobbe Photography

F

rom its beginnings in 1906, C o l d we l l Banker has grown to become one of the premier residential real estate organizations in the world. “[This] a company where you become more involved as an agent and concerned for the well-being of the community and your clients,” says Henry Moulin, who owns Coldwell Banker ResCom Realty along with Rich Jeanneau.

Jeanneau, like Moulin, has a wealth of experience in the real estate industry and understands the importance of integrity and hard work. “At Coldwell Banker, ResCom Realty people matter. It’s not just

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about listings and sales, it’s about training and support so that our Realtors can provide exceptional service to their clients.”

Led by real estate veterans Rich Jeanneau and Henry Moulin, Coldwell Banker Real Estate has an experienced, professional management team.

Ryan Bohle, who is a Realtor and investor with Henry Moulin & Associates, agrees.

“Henry and I did it together because we saw an opportunity to build on the values we thought were important.” Bohle says while many real estate companies choose quantity over quality, they want to focus on becoming the best they can be by evolving, growing and modernizing the business.

Based on survey responses from over 70,000 Canadian home buyers and sellers, over 98 per cent praise our overall performance.

While other Coldwell Realtors are independent agents from Henry Moulin & Associates, they feel the same way about the two owners. Darlene Kinnee who’s been with Coldwell for six years and a Realtor for 30, says, “It’s the ownership and management — definitely. It’s a great atmosphere and a very collaborative one.”

Realtor Jack Sandbrand describes Coldwell as a global brand with strong leadership skills and a large referral network due to its reputation across North America. “If

you want to grow your business,” he says.

“You should be with Coldwell Banker.”

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation handles an average of $131 million in home sales every day.

Tom Neufeld, who celebrated 10 years with Coldwell, was inspired to become a Realtor after purchasing his condo from a Coldwell agent in 1996. He explains, “Henry and Rich have incredible ethics and professionalism. It’s important to them that we respect our clients and respect one another in the industry.”

Jack Sandbrand — 306-241-0389 jack@sandbrand.com

Miranda Ardell — 306-291-9213 miranda-ardell@coldwellbanker.ca

Ryan Bohle — 306-717-8654 ryan@saskatoonrealestate.com

Darlene Kinnee — 306-241-5553 dkinnee@hotmail.com

Tom Neufeld — 306-260-7838 katneufeld@sasktel.net

Bob York — 306-280-7606 rwyork@gmail.com

Henry Moulin (Co-Owner) — 306-221-9221 henry@saskatoonrealestate.com

Rich Jeanneau (Co-Owner) 306-221-4781 richjeanneau@gmail.com

Miranda Ardell, who joined the real estate industry in 2007, describes the Coldwell team of agents as family. “Everyone is helpful and very accommodating,” she says. “It’s a strong bond that is formed and they’re simply a welcoming group of agents to work with.”

Bob York, who joined Coldwell last April, says, “My goal has always been to make my way into commercial real estate and Rich specializes in commercial while Henry specializes in residential real estate.” York says Rich is also involved at the board level with commercial development too.

Coldwell Banker was listed in Training magazine’s Top 125 companies for excellence in learning and sales professional development.

For many of Coldwell’s Realtors, it’s the opportunity and freedom that is an important part of working for the company as well. “Coldwell gives you the opportunity to be your own boss and the opportunity to succeed in many ways,” says Sandbrand.

International local leadership.

strengths,

For your clients, or your career, you can find the perfect home — join the Coldwell Banker team.

Rich Jeanneau 306.221.4781 richjeanneau@gmail.com Henry Moulin 306.221.9221 henry@saskatoonrealestate.com

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BETTER

OUTDOOR

LIVING

Attention Homeowners: Imagine a durable, versatile and attractive patio cover. One that delivers shade on hot days, protects your family from harmful UV rays and keeps your deck and outdoor furniture dry during a rainstorm. Suncoast Screen Enclosures will custom build your louvered roof as an addition to your home/business or as its own freestanding patio cover. Our built-in guttering system effectively channels away rain runoff to prevent flooding and structural damage. The louvers are operated by a hand-held remote which is charged by an efficient solar panel. Open the louvers slightly to increase ventilation, or a full 180 degrees allowing maximum sunlight into your home.

Suncoast Screen Enclosures offers a screened-in, outdoor area that allows you to enjoy your deck, pool, spa or patio without the sense of being enclosed in an indoor space.

306.761.1801 | Toll Free 1.877.449.5106 www.suncoastenclosures.com | don@suncoastenclosures.com

Sophistication and Style for Your Home and Your Life

Gallery17 142 - 1824 McOrmond Drive Saskatoon University Heights Square 306.978.1717 gallery17@sasktel.net Like us

Proven. Professional.

Peace of Mind.

By Tonya Lambert Photos Lisa Landrie

S

hana’s Cleaning Services is a Saskatoon-based residential cleaning company that is here to stay. Shana Rushing and Steve Perron began the business three years ago and soon discovered that the demand was great for dependable, thorough cleaners so they made the decision to expand. Today, Shana’s Cleaning Services employs several full-time cleaners and has close to 200 satisfied regular clients.

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Shana and her staff pride themselves on providing reliable, customized service at affordable prices. Shana visits every new client to walk through their home and make a list of everything that the client wants done. Each time, the client’s home is cleaned a completed checklist is left by the cleaner so the client knows the tasks have been completed. Next, Shana and the client work out a schedule that suits the clients’ needs. Linda Y. has been using

Shana’s Cleaning Services for the past year.

She explains, “Shana’s Cleaning Services is all about customer service, whether it is to be available for an emergency cleaning or to work out a cleaning schedule that is consistent with my work schedule. I trust her staff to do an excellent job and always look forward to coming home to a clean house, knowing I will not have to deal with the residual smell of harsh cleaning agents - which is very important to me as I have

of people can say they enjoy going to work every day, but I certainly can.”

allergies. I value Shana’s Cleaning Services and remain a loyal customer.”

Fully bonded, registered and insured, Shana’s Cleaning Services provides both regular cleaning services as well as onetime assistance with move-ins and moveouts or seasonal cleaning. Cleaners can come to your home once week or once a month; how often is entirely up to you.

Locally-owned and –operated, Shana’s Cleaning Services supplies all the necessary equipment and cleaning products, saving clients the hassle of having to go out and purchase these items. Shana’s cleaners use only the environmentally-friendly, biodegradable

and hypo-allergenic EnviroWise products.

These locally-manufactured products are both child and pet friendly.

The cleaners at Shana’s Cleaning Services are available from early in the morning to late in the evening, every day of the week. Each cleaner has had a background and reference check done and wears a company uniform. Upon being hired by Shana, each cleaner undergoes two weeks of training. “Working for Shana’s Cleaning Services is awesome,” notes Fran M. “Shana is amazing at helping us with our schedules and she is always there when we need her.” Adds Cass B., “I always feel like I am appreciated for the work I do. Not a lot

Fran and the other cleaners at Shana’s Cleaning Services care about their clients and do their best to provide them with exceptional service - that they succeed in doing so is clear by the high rate of referrals the company receives. Says Jenn, “Our experience, over the years with Shana’s Cleaning Services has been fantastic. The staff are friendly, professional, and very good at what they do. It is wonderful to have the help, and we always appreciate the great job that is done. We are very happy we found their business, and will continue to tell everyone about it!”

For a free consultation, give Shana a call or come by the company’s new office today.

Shana’s Cleaning Services #101–3718 Kinnear Place Saskatoon 306.262.3262 www.saskhomeservice.com |

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EXPERT ADVICE Six Steps to Buying a New Home

Deb Murdoch, AMP Mortgage Broker TMG The Mortgage Group 1-511 1st Avenue North, Saskatoon 306.933.0053 (office) 306.222.7900 (cell) mortgages@debmurdoch.com debmurdoch.com Broker 315800 Brokerage 315872

The Mortgage Group Prairies Inc.

STEP 1: GET PRE-APPROVED Getting pre-approved allows you to determine the amount you can qualify at for your new home. I have access to over 20 lenders, allowing me to find the very best product and rate for you.

STEP 2: START SEARCHING For most buyers, a realtor is the key to finding a new home. Other ways include word of mouth or by checking sites such as realtor.ca, saskhouses.com, or local builder sites. Drive around the neighbourhoods that interest you and look for “For Sale” signs. These properties may not be listed with a realtor or on saskhouses.com.

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STEP 3: MAKE AN OFFER TO PURCHASE After you have found the home you want to buy, you need to give the seller an offer to purchase, a legal document outlining the amount you are offering for the purchase, the date that you need to have your finances in place, the date you would like to take possession and any conditions on the sale, such as a satisfactory home inspection report, a property appraisal and/or sale of your current home.

You will also need to provide a deposit to be held in trust until the deal has been completed. The deposit amount forms a part of your down payment and closing costs.

The seller can accept your offer, or can counter your offer by asking for a higher price and/or a different closing date and/or different terms. You can accept the counter offer or you can counter the counter offer.

If the seller accepts the counter offer, the deal is concluded. If the counter-offer is not accepted and you can’t agree on the conditions, the sale does not go through and your deposit is returned to you.

STEP 4: FINALIZE YOUR FINANCING Once your offer to purchase has been accepted, your mortgage broker turns your pre-approval into a live deal. I prep your application and send it off to the lender for final approval.

The lender will verify your information

(income and down payment) and evaluate the property. I will go through all the options of your mortgage with you and together we will choose the best lender, product and rate for you.

STEP 5: CLOSING DAY This is the day that you receive legal possession of your new home. You will have met with the lawyer previous to this day when you have paid the remainder of your down payment plus the closing costs (such as lawyer fees, land title fees and possible some property tax). Your lawyer will see that the seller is paid, the property is registered in your name and will give you the deed/possibly the keys to your new home. Sometimes the realtor will give you the keys with confirmation from the lawyer that the deal is complete.

STEP 6: MOVING This is the time when it is the most exciting. Whether you choose a mover or choose to do it yourself, that is up to you.

It is a bit of a process, but with a mortgage broker it should be stress free. With our access to great rates and our accessibility, your experience with purchasing a home should be a happy one.

Check out my we b s ite at debmurdoch.com, where you’ll find valuable information and calculators useful for your home buying experience.

Five Reasons to Install Retractable Screens Let in fresh air and keep out insects Installing Phantom Retractable Screens on your home allows you to open up your living space without the nuisance of insects.

Retract your screen for an unobstructed view Phantom Screens don’t diminish the view or aesthetics of your doorway, allowing you to preserve the look and design of your home.

Let more natural daylight into your home when desired Phantom Screens appear transparent, allowing a clear view from the inside out.

Visit www.saskscreens.ca to see a full list of our products.

Enjoy the convenience of a professional installation Phantom Screens installers help homeowners to find screen solutions that match the design and size requirements of the openings they want to screen.

Phantom Screens are manufactured right here in Canada Custom Screen Installations is proud to be the authorized Phantom Screen Distributor serving Saskatchewan homeowners and builders since 1995.

Custom Screen Installations Saskatoon

306.934.8959

customscreens@sasktel.net

EXPERT ADVICE Prestige Home Pak: Above & Beyond

Priority Claims Service: Access to dedicated Prestige adjusters provides you with faster service, including a 30-minute guaranteed response time. Toll-free number to report claims 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (1.844.839.4671).

David Cooke, B.Comm, CAIB Cooke Insurance 1 - 411 Confederation Drive Saskatoon 306.384.7000 office@cookeinsurance.com www.cookeinsurance.com

Removal of Standard Obsolescence Clause: If matching materials are no longer available, Prestige provides replacement of entire roof, exterior siding materials, floor coverings or sets of vehicle entry doors in the event of a claim.

Roof Snow Removal: If an ice dam forms and water enters the attic, it can damage the roof, ceilings, walls and contents of your home. With Prestige, you have access to $1,000 to have the snow removed from your roof following a loss.

T

he most consistent thing in the insurance industry is that it is continually changing… and, living in Saskatchewan just keeps getting better and better!

Many of the insurance companies have introduced some enhancements to their coverages, but SGI Canada has gone above and beyond by introducing their new Prestige Home Pak. SGI Canada’s Prestige Policy provides you with the most comprehensive coverage for your dwelling, outbuildings and belongings.

Some of the benefits of carrying this type of coverage are listed below.

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Home Systems Protection: Coverage for the sudden and accidental mechanical breakdown of home equipment such as furnaces, central air conditioners, deep well pumps, pool pumps and heating equipment, electrical power panels and more.

Higher Limits on Property with Specific Amounts of Protection: Increased coverage for items such as tools, spare auto parts, business instruments and computers, securities coverage, computer software protection, lawnmowers, tractors, snow blowers, jewellery and furs, and much more.

Same Site Rebuilding Clause: Removal of the same-site building clause in the event of a total loss.

Personal Liability Coverage: Increased to $3,000,000.

Lifestyle Coverage Options: These options can be added to your Prestige Pak for a minimal charge, allowing you to tailor your insurance protection to your specific lifestyle needs.

• Home Business Owner: provides coverage for business contents such as tools and computers.

• Collectibles & Treasures Protection: increase limits for items such as trading cards, jewellery, stamps and coin collections.

• Family & Security: increased limits for identity theft, securities and bonds, cemetery property, and more.

• Recreational Protection: increased limit for shrubs, bicycles, lawnmowers, snow blowers, and more.

Stop in or contact our office to discuss this exciting new product and all your insurance requirements. Any of our knowledgeable brokers are happy to look after your needs.

Visit www.cookeinsurance.com to obtain your free home quote.

Online motor vehicle licensing issuing is available at www.cookeinsurance.com by “clicking” the SGI Online Services ISSUER button.

Turn

ANY SPACE into Your

Favourite Place

Why display a bed when square footage is at a premium?

Our custom Murphy Beds allow you to maximize the space in your home office, den, exercise rooms, family rooms, basements and more. Perfect for Condos! Guests can look forward to a comfortable nights rest on the same quality mattress you experience with a standard bed. The cabinet housing is functional, attractive and high quality. There is no limitation to your imagination with Majestic’s Custom Designs.

Call us today for a consultation. Our in house design specialists will work with you to create your custom fit.

Saskatchewan’s distributor of MURPHY WALL BEDS 511 - 45th Street E. Saskatoon | 306.934.0660 www.majesticcabinets.ca |

Creating the

Ultimate Culinary Experience

W

hen we find our forever home, we realize that value should be placed on creating a space that truly complements our lifestyle — especially when it comes to the kitchen. The kitchen is the anchor of any home, and people desire a high-efficient, functional and truly sensational space to share with their loved ones.

Metric Design Centre’s kitchen designers offer professional services paired with one-of-a-kind Neff cabinetry. This pairing is essential to fully utilize Neff ’s unsurpassed quality, attention to detail, and unending capabilities.

The designer takes the time to get to know you and your lifestyle and works on the layout and material selection according to your needs. The Metric Design team will set your space apart by creating unique design features, such bulkheads, flyovers, and shapely cabinetry. They can also supply and install every product needed for the entire renovation or build — cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, appliances, flooring, plumbing and lighting.

The great features of Neff derive from years of engineering genius: upper cabinets that are four inches deeper and include an extra shelf accommodating for 30 per cent more storage; integrated plugs and lighting for a seamless look; grain-matched exotic veneers and worldrenowned Euro laminates, offering the most beautiful finishes on the market. Interior features include tempered glass roll-outs, scrubbable vinyl, and top-quality storage features. With Neff, everything is low-VOC, such as the water-based protective clear coatings in place of oil-based.

Let’s start designing your ultimate kitchen at Metric Design Centre.

Metric Design Centre 160 2nd Avenue North Saskatoon 306.974.0190 www.metricdesign.ca www.metricdesign.ca/webstore

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Your Living is Our Living Save time and eliminate stress by hiring Paragon to manage your investment property.

What do we do? Paragon Rental Placement and Property Management Inc. is full-service rental placement and property management company that services residential, apartment and condominium properties. We manage your property while giving you the freedom to be as involved in the process as you want.

Why does it matter? As real estate investors ourselves, we know the importance of having professional property management in place. We tailor our real estate services to your property’s particular needs.

We have had an excellent experience working with Paragon since late 2013. All communications have been prompt and responsive. We have consistently been treated in a very professional and supportive way. Paragon has given us excellent service and advice with regard to renting our home in Saskatoon. — T. Eriksen, Saskatoon

B

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Fr an

ci

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Why do people care? Property owners want property managers that will manage their property as if they owned it. Our ultimate goal is to help you create a quality living environment while maximizing your return on your investment!

Paragon Rental Placement and Property Management Inc. #6 - 2241 Hanselman Ave, Saskatoon | Toll Free 1.855.448.4681 admin@paragonrentals.ca | www.paragonrentals.ca

Celebrates Saskatoon

SUCCESS

By Tonya Lambert Photos Heather Fritz

T

he evening of May 15th saw a curious juxtaposition of past, present and future occur at Prairieland Park, where the 2014 Celebrate Success! Awards Gala was held. The flapper dresses and zoot suits of attendees at the The Great Gatsby-themed event brought to mind the economic boom that occurred in Saskatoon in the late 1920s. The presentation of the 19th annual Saskatoon Achievement in Business Excellence (SABEX) Awards was a happy reminder of the current economic

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prosperity of the city while the crowd of dedicated and enthusiastic business people provided a hopeful optimism for Saskatoon’s continued growth and success in the future.

Celebrate Success! is an annual event produced by the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce with the help of many local business sponsors, including this year’s Signature Sponsor CTV, Presenting Sponsor PotashCorp, and Gala Sponsor Conexus Credit Union. Celebrate

Success! and the SABEX Awards recognize and honour Saskatoon area businesses that exemplify top business performance, quality and achievement.

The spectacular gala event was organized

by Molly Lux of Lux Events. While enjoying a delicious dinner, guests were skilfully guided through the evening’s events by CTV news anchors Rob MacDonald and Chantel Huber. The presentation of awards was interspersed with toe-tapping music from the 1920s

presented by The Memory Land Band as well as an incredible and lively dance performance by Abiding Lines Dance Co. Masala Model & Talent supplied models in period outfits selected by Polished Cotton to assist with the awards presentations.

At the beginning of the program, guests were greeted with the welcome news that it had just been determined that the province of Saskatchewan has the secondbest economy in the entire world and has the lowest unemployment rate in the

country. A large portion of the credit for this stunning growth and prosperity could be found amongst the hard-working and innovative business men and women in the room that night. Saskatchewan is a province that was built by on the optimism, perseverance and ingenuity of its people, past and present. As the owners of Three Farmers Products, winner of the SABEX New Product and/or Service Award, noted, “There is no better or more supportive place to be than Saskatchewan.”

Saskatchewan is a place where people have a reputation of being very supportive of each other, a trait which helped our forebears to survive and thrive. It is this atmosphere of mutual support which Virgil Reed has been careful to promote at Reed Security, winner of the SABEX Customer Service Award, and to which he attributes his company’s success. “Happy employees build a great business. It feels good to share the spotlight with the people I work with every day and to publicly acknowledge them.” At Reed Security,

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2014 Celebrate Success!

Award Winners Business for Peace Award Nominee Dr. Keith Downey SABEX Hall of Fame Award John Cross SABEX Community Involvement Award Wiegers Financial & Benefits SABEX Customer Service Award Reed Security SABEX Growth & Expansion Award Saskatoon Business College Ltd. Innovation Place & U of S ILO Award of Innovation Dr. Pierre J. Hucl & Dr. Curtis J. Pozniak Saskatoon Community Foundation Strategic Alliance Award Hatch (nominated by the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre) Leadership Saskatoon Award Milton Taylor

TOP Reed Security MIDDLE W Bridals ~ Curvy Couture

employees receive daily recognition for their efforts through such innovative ideas as ringing a gong when a goal is reached.

Sisters Kayla and Kimberley Camboia of W Bridals Inc. ~ Curvy Couture, winner of the SABEX New Business Venture Award, compared Saskatoon to the “Little Train that Could.” “There is so much ingenuity in this city.” They also noted that Saskatoon is a place where the presence of female entrepreneurs is large. “The city is bustling with female entrepreneurs — strong, powerful women.”

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The supportive environment found within this city and province was very much in evidence at this fun-filled gala event. From the cocktail hour through the dinner and awards presentation to the after party, guests mingled, exchanging ideas, creating connections and congratulating each other on their success. In short, the event recognized the community’s economic and business success of the past and present while helping to lay the foundations for continued prosperity into the future.

SABEX Marketing Award S & E Trusted Online Directories Inc. SABEX New Business Venture Award W Bridals Inc. – Curvy Couture SABEX New Product and/or Service Award Three Farmers Products SABEX Small Business of the Year Award Push Interactions SABEX Business of the Year Award IRC Innovative Rehabilitation Consultants

EXPERT ADVICE Do I Need Disability Insurance?

2. What percentage of your income comes from your investments?

The lower this percentage, the more dependent you are on your ability to work and earn a living.

Janea Dieno JBD Financial Planning 217-3501 8th Street Saskatoon 306.979.5000 306.281.3891 (cell) janea@jbdfinancialplanning.com www.jbdfinancialpplanning.com

Y

ou may have never asked yourself this question, but it may be worth exploring if you consider that one of your most valuable assets could be seriously impacted if you were to become disabled: your ability to work and earn an income.

Completing the following questionnaire can help you think about how your ability to work, earn an income and your financial future could be affected by a sudden illness or disability.

1. When do you expect to retire?

The further out in the future this date, the longer your financial well-being is exposed to the risk of disability.

3. How long could you maintain your current standard of living on savings alone?

The shorter this period, the more vulnerable you will be if disability strikes.

Also keep in mind that withdrawals from an RRSP are subject to income tax.

4. To what degree do your children, spouse or parents depend on you financially?

If you become disabled, your dependents will still need financial support.

5. How much income do you think the government will provide if you become disabled?

The major forms of government disability benefits are: Employment Insurance, Workers’ Compensation and the Canada Pension Plan. All three have eligibility and benefit limitations.

6. How much money do you think you could borrow if you became disabled?

From your lender’s perspective, if you aren’t working, will they want to loan you money?

7. If you became disabled and were unable to work, would your spouse

be able to generate enough income to make up the shortfall?

Even when this is possible (by working extra hours for example), many spouses instead want to reduce the amount of time at work to be able to help their partner.

8. How much disability insurance do you already own and how comprehensive is it?

Even when people have disability insurance through their employer, a review of the coverage can reveal that they don’t have enough, or identify potential benefit limitations.

Did any of your answers raise more questions for you?

If the answer is yes, you may have a need for individual disability insurance protection. There are a variety of income replacement products so you don’t need to dig into your retirement savings and investments or borrow money to replace your lost income.

While no one plans to become disabled, you can be prepared with an income replacement plan. Review the plans you have at work and meet with a financial advisor to ensure the coverage you have is the right coverage for you.

For more information about disability insurance or to have your current disability insurance plan through your employer reviewed, please contact Janea Dieno, Certified Financial Planner.

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The

ClassiC Convertible

By Rebecca Schneidereit

T

axonomically, the label “convertible lover” encompasses a range of people and passions. There are hard-top lovers and soft-top fans. There are those who value a vintage pedigree, and those seduced by straight-off-the-lot sparkle. There are domestic devotees, and acolytes of glamorous imports, and owners who pride themselves on paint jobs in a thousand shades.

But all of them are “convertible lovers.” They love the way a convertible looks and feels, its inimitable combination of Hollywood glitter and heartland bravado. For confirmed convertible lovers — and those just discovering their charms — Fine Lifestyles offers this retrospective: a glance at the convertible’s origins and the current state of affairs.

Way Back When European auto artisans, Peugeot, smashed the metaphorical bottle of champagne on the prow of the convertible; their hard-topped 601 Eclipse hit the streets in 1934, and for nearly 40 years afterwards, demand for convertibles was both extreme and enduring.

From the first models to the modern era, the convertible’s desirability was uniquely democratic. Unlike the limo or pickup truck, its allure crossed class and gender. Ingrid Bergman drove a convertible in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1946 nail-biter, Notorious; Patrick McGoohan manned a model in 60s spy drama deconstruction, The Prisoner. From Grease’s Danny Zuko to Mad Men’s Don Draper to Barbie herself, the convertible never ceased to transcend boundaries.

Throughout the 50s and 60s, a number of celebrated convertible masterpieces (including the Alfa Romeo Spider and Chevrolet Corvette) were unveiled. The period’s playfulness was reflected in the vehicles’ shape and detailing: the Austin-Healey Sprite was all but anthropomorphic, and Janis Joplin (who penned cappella 60s anthem “Mercedes Benz”) possessed a Porsche Type 356 C so extravagantly ornamented it’s now a museum piece.

Unfortunately, disco wasn’t the only disaster convertible lovers had to endure in the 70s. What was arguably North America’s most decadent decade paradoxically saw steep deterioration in

ABOVE Late 50s Merceds Benz 300SL OPPOSITE Chevrolet Corvette Stringray

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convertible marketability. However, popularity catapulted again in the 80s, with the 1982 Chrysler LeBaron among comeback forerunners. The LeBaron isn’t universally beloved: Web2Carz’s Tim Healey proclaimed models up to 1985 among the “Top Ten Worst Convertibles of all Time”. Nevertheless, CAKE’s 2001 hit “Short Skirt, Long Jacket” demonstrated that the LeBaron had garnered sufficient household recognition to be name-checked in a pop song two decades later.

The “second wind” of the 80s and 90s fueled successful convertible designs capable of rivalling mid-century models, and nowadays, it may be mostly the nostalgia factor separating “new school” convertibles from their forbearers’ legendary status. But the clock’s always ticking: at this point, even nostalgia can’t be far away.

If you Want one If you’re considering purchasing a convertible, well — congratulations on your timing. A variety of exciting models, crafted by numerous manufacturers, are offered for 2014. Price points vary, as always, but turning the plunge into a splurge ensures you’ll make a splash. Here are a few options that live up to the convertible legacy.

BMW. This German creator’s 6 Series Cabriolet is decked with extras, from LED lights to Bang & Olufsen acoustics. But it’s the Cabriolet’s artistry (“inspired by the elegance of flowing water”, according to BMW) that’s unforgettable.

Ferrari. The 458 Spider has received umpteen commendations (from the Robb Report’s “Best of the Best Convertible” to Top Gear China’s “Best Driver’s Sports Car,” both 2012), so we’re not ashamed to confess what really sold us: the custom-matched travel bags.

Mecedes-Benz. Whoever names Mercedes-Benz’s inventions has a sense of humour. The roofless heater is dubbed the “AIRSCARF”; the tint mechanism is the “MAGIC SKY CONTROL”. Both features (and more) are attached to Mercedes-Benz’s SL-Class and SLK-Class convertibles.

Vintage. Like the violin, the convertible’s prestige can escalate with age.

Apply the usual rules for purchasing pre-owned: find a trustworthy source, and confirm that your chosen vehicle is safe and reliable, even if it looks flawless. You don’t want a car so cool it takes a smoke break on the highway.

Those who look askance at “pre-owned” may want to reconsider in the case of convertibles. With convertibles, the universal second-hand slam — “you don’t know where it’s been” — is part of the point. Did your roadster sail down the freeway, Beatles on the radio, beach daybound? Was it served milkshakes and French fries by skated waitresses at an original drive-thru? Did it ferry a business mogul, musician or athlete to deals, gigs or games? A tinge of mystery is the finishing touch on a car that’s already irresistible.

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Leave the Details to

Kristy Kleen

By Tonya Lambert Photos Heather Fritz

W

hen a business just keeps expanding, you know that it is providing customers with great, reliable service; such is the case with Kristy Kleen Automotive Detailing. Moving to a new, bigger location at #200-3936 Brodsky Avenue on August 1, this will be Kristy Kleen’s second expansion in just six years!

them. For example, Kristy Kleen is the only automotive detailing company in the city to offer on-site mobile service. “This service has been a big hit,” says manager, Elizabeth Sansom. “People are so busy these days,” adds Lang. “By coming to their home or business to detail their vehicle, we are saving them a lot of time. People appreciate that.”

One of the main reasons for the company’s success is that owner Kristy Lang continues to introduce new, innovative services whenever she sees the need for

The staff at Kristy Kleen will not only get your car, van or truck cleaned, polished and shining like the day you bought it, they will also detail your RV,

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boat or farm and industrial equipment.

States Dean at Brandt Tractor: “Kristy Kleen does a wonderful job. They come to the shop every week to clean the equipment. They are punctual, pleasant and very accommodating. They really pay attention to the details.” Jerry at Proline Motorsports & Marine Inc. agrees: “I am a details guy, and I know what is involved in making a boat truly clean. Kristy Kleen offers a professional, top-quality mobile service that allows our technicians to focus on their jobs so that customers get

Kristy Lang (3rd from left) and the staff of Kristy Kleen

their boats back in a timely manner and looking great.”

Customers can choose from several packages that range from shampooing to wash ‘n’ wax. The Kristy Kleen team will detail the interior of your vehicle until it is spotless and the exterior until it shines. In addition, they have added an extra service this past year whereby they will pressure wash the interior of your garage so that you are not parking your sparkling clean vehicle in a dirty space.

They will also pressure wash your deck, siding or fence, if desired.

At Kristy Kleen Automotive Detailing, you are getting convenient, affordable service with a smile. Lang and her staff really enjoy the work they do and get great satisfaction from the happy faces of their customers when they see their pride and joy restored to all its glory. “I like working for Kristy Kleen,” says Sansom. “Every day is a different story; there is so much variety. We will literally clean anything and everything, big or small. We deal with some of the dirtiest vehicles you can imagine, and get them looking like new.”

Let Kristy Kleen take some of the stress out of your day by removing the calcium

and lime build-up from your boat, the mud from your truck or the bits of food and drink spilled on the seats of your car or van by your toddler. Whatever the job, the staff at Kristy Kleen will restore your pride in your ride.

Kristy Kleen Automotive Detailing #18-243 Wheeler Street (until July 31) #200-3936 Brodsky Avenue (starting August 1) Saskatoon 306.229.2432 kristykleen@gmail.com www.kristykleen.ca

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ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF SASKATCHEWAN

SPRING GALA 2014

By Sherry Lee and Tonya Lambert Photos Courtesy of Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan

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sell-out crowd gathered at the Western Development Museum for the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan’s firstever Saskatoon Gala, Memories. Attendees bid on silent auction items, as well as other live auction prizes, generously donated by businesses and individuals from across the province. Guests enjoyed a champagne reception and a delicious dinner of prime rib. There was a photo booth where attendees could have fun photos taken, and prior to the dinner, Jenna Cote presented a beautiful dance routine in honour of her uncle. After supper, Memory Lane entertained the crowd.

Darlene Goodwillie told the heart-felt story of her late husband David’s battle with Alzheimer’s. A strong, vital man when he was diagnosed, David lived three-and-a-half years before passing away in 2012. Darlene explained the progress of her husband’s illness and the effects it had, not only on David, but on all those who cared for him. She spoke of the much-appreciated assistance their family received from the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, and the critical need for more services and programs to help caregivers support their loved ones.

Alzheimer’s and related disorders have a severe and long-lasting personal, financial and social impact. More resources and help are needed.

Joanne Bracken, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, reinforces the importance of understanding the growing impacts of this disease. “It does affect younger people, but one of the risk factors is age ... and once you turn 65,

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resource centres have recently opened in North Battleford, Prince Albert, Swift Current and Weyburn to serve those regions, and Telehealth provides access to services across the province. Alzheimer Society staff are also available to answer questions and offer support through the Dementia Helpline at 1.877.949.4141.

Other information can be found at www. alzheimer.ca/sk.

PREVIOUS PAGE Alzheimer Society staff ABOVE Saskatoon Gala Committee Members.

every five years your chance of developing dementia doubles. In people over 85, one in three will develop a dementia of some type,” says Bracken. “In Saskatchewan, that’s particularly alarming because one of the fastest growing segments of our population is people over the age of 65.

In 2011, ‘baby boomers’ started turning 65, and that’s why we’re starting to see this disease become more and more prevalent.

Our largest demographic has moved into the age of highest risk.”

Bracken says it is important, but often difficult, to get a diagnosis. Fortunately, the Alzheimer Society offers many programs and services to assist those in need.

“One of the key things we do is support

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people who are living with the disease and their family caregivers. Examples of support include the First Link® program, the Learning Series, support groups and linking people to community resource.”

The use of Telehealth technology expands their reach. “This builds additional support networks for people... a link to other agencies and organizations that can also provide support.”

The Society also hosts the annual Heads Up for Healthier Brains Public Forum and community presentations, while helping to fund collaborative research efforts across Canada that focus on the cause and cure, as well as quality of life, for those living with the disease. Four new

It takes money to carry out these efforts, and this year’s Saskatoon gala raised $124,000 for the society. Other fundraising events throughout the year include Coffee Break® during the fall (to align with World Alzheimer Day on Sept. 21) and A Night to Remember, the society’s Regina gala held each autumn. An annual giving campaign, major gifts campaign and planned giving program also run during the year. “In addition to events like the gala, the society relies on donations from individuals and corporations to support the important work that we do across Saskatchewan, to provide support for people and families living with all types of dementia,” says Bracken.

Bracken wants the society’s message to get out there. “There are still a lot of people who don’t understand who we are as an organization and what we do to help families,” she emphasizes. “Once the diagnosis is there, they can learn about the disease. There are many things we can do to help you live life better with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.”

The Saskatchewan economy continues to boom, and the city of Saskatoon is no exception.

The following pages profile some of the best local businesses based on product quality and selection, level of service, staff, accessibility and community involvement.

Table of Contents

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Lash Extensions .....................................................................................69

Home, Auto and Business Glass ....................................................102

Artisan Market ........................................................................................72

Home Care ...............................................................................................106

Auto Dealer..............................................................................................74

Interior Design and DĂŠcor ................................................................108

Auto Upgrades.......................................................................................76

Investment ...............................................................................................110

Bedrooms .................................................................................................78

Kids Venue ...............................................................................................112

Bikes ............................................................................................................80

Local Spirits ..............................................................................................114

Bistro ...........................................................................................................82

Professional Recruitment Specialists ..........................................116

Body Art.....................................................................................................84

Roofing ......................................................................................................118

Bridal and Events...................................................................................86

Salon ...........................................................................................................122

Custom Framing....................................................................................88

Seafood......................................................................................................124

Electrical ....................................................................................................90

Skin Care....................................................................................................126

Fitting Shop .............................................................................................92

Video Game Specialists......................................................................128

Flooring .....................................................................................................94

Window Coverings...............................................................................130

Furniture....................................................................................................96

Spa ...............................................................................................................132

Golf Course ..............................................................................................100

Group Benefits .......................................................................................134

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LASH EXTENSIONS

The Lashes You Dream of at Primp Lash Lounge

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or some, the notion of eyelash extensions may conjure images of celebrity red carpets, model shoots or the kind of theatrical makeup seen in movies or on TV. But at Primp Lash Lounge, the popular downtown eyelash studio that opened in October 2013, women ranging from nurses and executives to retired seniors and busy moms come to have their eyelashes elongated in a way that looks

By Courtney Tait Photos Heather Fritz

natural and beautiful — and simplifies their lives. “People from all walks of life are getting Primp lashes,” says owner and certified lash technician Jillian Miller.

“One thing we hear a lot from clients is, ‘I don’t know how I lived without these’.”

Primp Lash Lounge offers a range of lengths, weights and types of eyelash extensions, creating personalized looks depending on each client’s lifestyle and needs. Before applying lashes, Primp lash

technicians consult with clients to clarify the kind of lifestyle they lead, if the lashes are for daily wear or a special occasion, and if they want a dramatic or more natural look. Their aim is to create a lash look ideal for the individual, right down to how much curl they want their lashes to have. “We strive to provide extremely personalized service,” says Jillian. “It’s about asking the right questions. We get to know our clients and build relationships.”

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In addition to creating a fuller look, eyelash extensions save the time of applying and removing mascara, and prevent the issues that come with it, such as clumping and running.

Primp Lash Lounge uses only semi-permanent individual lashes, with each individual synthetic lash being applied to individual natural ones.

“It’s really important that a technician takes the time to isolate the natural lash,” says Jillian. Lashes are touched up every two to four weeks, dependending on the natural lash cycle. “Women love them,” says Jillian. “This is their one hour every three weeks when they can be high maintenance, so they can be low maintenance the rest of the time.”

Business at Primp Lash Lounge has grown so quickly that Jillian added a second lash technician within the first three months of opening, and has since added a third. “We get a ton of referrals, and our price point is attainable, which brings in a lot of people,” she says. “I am just thrilled with how quickly things have taken off !”

Each Primp lash technician has been certified through Can-West Agencies, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the eyelash cycle, the different products used, safe and proper application, and dealing with rare reactions. Primp lashes are applied in exactly the same way by each team member, so no matter who touches up your lashes, you will receive the same exceptional service and results. “Consistency is huge for us,” says Jillian. “We keep a record of what each client

LEFT Daryl Iverson (Model courtesy Primp Lash Lounge) RIGHT Jessica Black (Model courtesy Masala Model & Talent)

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gets each time, so no matter who they are served by, they will be getting the same results.” This record of their client’s Primp lash history also enables the team to create new looks if women want to try something more dramatic or natural. “We are always adapting and tweaking, so if someone wants to go bigger for an event, they can do that, and go back to a more natural look after should they choose,” says Jillian. “The options are endless!”

Along with personalized service and top-quality lashes, clients appreciate the relaxing atmosphere and stylish, white and lilac decor at Primp Lash Lounge. “We’ve created a place that ladies like to come to,” says Jillian. “I absolutely love hearing the positive reactions when clients visit for the first time. It’s meant to be a girly retreat.” While some clients enjoy a nap as their Primp lashes are applied, the boutique ambience and team growth also lends itself to a more sociable experience. “Your appointment is whatever you want it to be,” says Jillian. “Sometimes two of us will each have a client and we’ll all be talking together. It’s super fun — like a beauty parlour atmosphere.”

Primp Lash Lounge is open by appointment Tuesday to Saturday, with additional hours available upon request.

To accommodate their clients’ busy schedules, the lounge is open until 9 p.m. three nights per week. Jillian says the Primp Lash team is encouraging people to book ahead for their upcoming appointments, and that new clients are always welcome. “With clients ranging from 14 to 80 years old,” she says, “Primp lashes really are for everyone.”

Primp Lash Lounge #57-158 2nd Ave North Saskatoon 306.850.1224 primplashlounge@gmail.com www.primplashlounge.com TOP L - R Jillian Miller, owner and certified lash technician; Janelle Hazell, certified lash technician BELOW Alicia Ciasico Kimpton (Model courtesy Masala Model & Talent)

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Artisan Products

ARTISAN MARKET

FROM THE BEST INGREDIENTS

by Tonya Lambert Photos Heather Fritz

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visit to our city’s very own terroir marketplace is like jet-setting around the world without ever having to step on an airplane. From uniquely-crafted local products to high-end artisan goods from across the globe, at Ingredients Artisan Market discerning customers will find exactly what is needed to make their next culinary quest a success.

The shelves of Ingredients — the shop itself a wonderful juxtaposition of classic and contemporary décor — are filled with a diverse selection of products, carefully chosen for their delicious flavours as well as the care and attention dedicated to their production. The founders of Ingredients wanted to create a sophisticated marketplace featuring high-quality cuisine and wines that sate the most noncompromising of tastes. The owners travel the world looking for unique products that fit with store’s niche for terroir items.

Just think: GM Chris Cole and his knowledgeable staff at Ingredients can put together a gift basket with a sophisticated Bordeaux wine temptingly accompanied by decadent Parisian chocolates, artisanal cheeses from Quebec and a locally-made, hand-milled loaf of bread so you and your sweetheart can enjoy a traditional French picnic on the banks of the sparkling Saskatchewan River.

Whether or not you consider yourself a cicerone or oenophile, Ingredients boasts an impressive array of local and international beer, wines and spirits. Stop by on a Friday afternoon for a free sample of some of the market’s 350 craft beers.

Saturdays, an experienced sommelier is on

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hand to guide you through a selection of the store’s more than 300 fine wines. Gift cards are also available to use in the shop’s self-serve wine tasting bar any day of the week, or arrange for a private group tasting.

This is also home to Saskatoon Brewing House, a brewery rapidly carving out a reputation for the best craft beers available in the province and can easily compete on the world stage. Brew master Jordan Evans’ Saskatoon Berry Dark Ale, Grapefruit Hefeweisen, Chocolate Porter, and Czech Pilsner have all made their mark with Saskatoon’s beer enthusiasts. Ingredients is the exclusive retailer for the brewery’s bottled line-up. Sample them all fresh from the tap, and take home a litre or two.

Savour a mouth-watering cup of NYC’s best Kobrick’s coffee along with a delicious artisan sandwich, a freshly-made salads, Italian olives and Brooklyn Brine Pickles from the newly-opened delicatessen (perfect for lunch on the go). Of course, everything is available for purchase to be enjoyed at home or the cottage.

Ingredients also hosts a mini farmers’ market on Saturdays throughout the summer, so the best, freshest ingredients

are always available to make a delicious, home-cooked meal.

Inspired by a lifelong passion for global delicacies, the store’s keen staff can make informed and creative suggestions on everything from food and wine pairings to gift ideas for that special someone.

Ingredients is a store for both discerning consumers with enthusiasm for unique and interesting products, as well as those who wish to expand their comfort zone and experience quality food and beverages from around the world. After all, even just a small amount of well-made artisan products will enrich your quality of life.

Ingredients Artisan Market/ Saskatoon Brewing Co. 618 2nd Ave. N Saskatoon 306.668.9463 info@ingredientsartisanmarket.com www.ingredientsartisanmarket.com | |

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AUTO DEALER

Ens Lexus:

The PursuiT of PerfecTion

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Lisa Landrie

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t isn’t just about getting from point A to point B.

For Ens Lexus, it’s the idea of progressive luxury. It’s a promise to their customers to continuously provide the highest quality of service, leading edge technology and precision engineering for an unparalleled driving experience.

To keep this promise, Ens Lexus has constructed a new facility, significantly

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expanding their square footage to better service the every need of their Lexus guests. It’s part of the Lexus international mandate to strive for the pursuit of perfection through continuous improvement. Lexus is always pushing the boundaries of design, technology, craftsmanship and customer care, and the new facility promises to reflect that: an experience as amazing as the car itself.

Ens Lexus Sales Manager Michael

Sutherland says the new Ens Lexus facility has a larger selection of new and preowned vehicles on display, a beautiful customer lounge and quicker service for its clients. “We want to embody the prestige of the Lexus brand to our guests in Saskatoon by providing the highest level of customer service.”

Sutherland understands that establishing a relationship that is built on trust is the most important part of a vehicle purchase

experience. “We aren’t interested in just selling cars. Our goal is to establish a long term relationship with our guests. We want to be the place that our customers turn to for all of their automotive needs.”

“Ens is a well-known and respected company in Saskatoon,” says Sutherland.

“And I believe it’s because we are committed to providing exceptional customer service, and have a product of excellent quality. Lexus continuously ranks highest in customer satisfaction, vehicle dependability and customer loyalty in Canada. It’s our job to live up to this reputation in Saskatoon.”

Sutherland’s favourite Lexus is the IS 350 AWD F-Sport — a sophisticated sports sedan that can be enjoyed 12 months a

year. Lexus’ most prolific model is the RX350 — a five passenger luxury SUV that is the perennial best seller in its category. “No other SUV hits the sweet spot for value, luxury, style and 4 season performance like the RX,” says Sutherland.

Our customer retention is tremendous but this is especially true of the RX. We have guests that have been with us since the brand began in 1991 and they wouldn’t continue to spend their hard earned money on our vehicles if they weren’t completely satisfied with the products and services that they have received.”

Ens Lexus provides service, parts and repairs at its award-winning Lexus service centre, which is open Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9

a.m. to 1 p.m. Service advisors are able to answer any questions and offer solutions to your vehicle’s maintenance and repair needs. Furthermore, Ens Lexus exclusively uses original Lexus parts and components in all the work they perform.

Ens Lexus Sales Department is open Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is closed on Sunday. For more information or to contact one of Ens Lexus knowledgeable and helpful staff, please visit www.enslexus.ca/en/ or call 1.844.653.6777.

Ens Lexus Michael Sutherland 1.844.653.6777 enslexustoyota.com

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AUTO UPGRADES

Supercharged Performance

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Paul Wilson

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t’s not just about increasing speed at Performance Plus. It’s about increasing efficiency and giving your vehicle the best the auto industry offers.

“Lexani Wheels is our newest product at Performance Plus,” says owner Brian Stephenson. Lexani Custom Luxury Wheels is a high-end aftermarket product (and a popular luxury item with rappers and UFC fighters). “With Lexani rims, you can make it any colour, any finish — it’s completely customizable.” Stephenson remarks he once saw a Lexani rim with $2 million worth of diamonds glistening on

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the finish, showcasing the extreme they can do for custom, one-of-a-kind rims.

vehicle like it is our own. Our attention to detail is second to none.”

At Performance Plus, Stephenson says they can order Lexani Wheels for clients after creating and customizing the wheel from start to finish with one of Performance Plus’ three sales members.

Stephenson notes that clients are consistently pleased with the convenience Performance Plus provides and the minimal time it takes to create the customized dream packages they have always wanted for their vehicle. “We work fast,” he says. “We can enhance a vehicle’s power, customize its wheels and change its tire size. As an example you may have opted for the base Corvette, but we can give you ZR1 performance in three to four days at a fraction of the price. Or, take a

There are currently seven members on the Performance Plus team. They’re auto enthusiasts like Stephenson himself and, together, have a combined experience of over 80 years. Says service manager, Michael Ryall, “We really treat every

GT mustang and give it Shelby power. A Camaro SS can easily beat up on a ZL1 and a 5.7hemi Challenger can give the boots to the SRT8 Challenger. If you’re one of the owners of the high-end muscle cars we can increase your power as well. We have done numerous 1000+hp super car upgrades on Corvettes, Shelbys and others.”

Performance Plus also introduced Saskatchewan’s only Chassis Dyno in 2005.

Its MD 1100 Chassis Dyno is inertia-based and has Eddy Current loading for tuning.

The most powerful tunes are custom dyno tunes using custom SCT, Diablosport and HP Tuning software.

Performance Plus was a registered trademark in 1992 and has since grown into a company that specializes in enhancing your vehicle’s power, as well as having the largest selection of traditional

hot rod parts in Saskatchewan. “I began racing at 18 and founded Performance Plus four years later. Now in its third location at 7,000 sq. ft., things are great,” says Stephenson.

Performance Plus is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

“Whatever image you’re going for,” says Stephenson. “We have products that will appeal to you, whether it’s affluence, youth or sophistication.” For more information on products and services visit www.performanceplus.com.

Performance Plus 416 22nd Street West Saskatoon 306.249.3003

OPPOSITE PAGE - LEFT C6 Base Corvette 885HP; RIGHT C6 “2R1” Corvette 805HP THIS PAGE - TOP L-R Michael Ryall, Brian Stephenson, Kurtis Loth, Dar Holinaty, Mavis Hamoline, Barry Miske, Kieren Lai MIDDLE 805HP “2R1” showing off BELOW 1965 Impala with Lexani 3pc forged wheels FineLifestyles

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BEDROOMS

The Golden Rule Rules at

WISEGUYS MATTRESSES

By Melanie Furlong Photos Heather Fritz

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ark Stevens explains why he’s the only independent mattress seller in Saskatoon with more than a little wisdom. “The way you’re successful is by treating people the way you want to be treated,” says Stevens, owner of Wiseguys Mattresses. “I offer the best beds at the best prices with the best service. I don’t try to trick customers or up-sell them. I just show them what I have and go from there.”

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into a much larger location at 6-805 Circle Drive. The new site is nearly 5,500-squarefeet and features top quality mattresses and bedroom furniture.

Stevens is going far with his philosophy. He’s in his eighth year as an independent seller and just over a year ago moved his business

At Wiseguys Mattresses, Stevens shows new customers two models to help them discover which level of firmness they prefer. He asks

The new space has allowed Stevens to bring in more floor models for customers to test.

“A mattress is the most important piece of furniture in your life,” he says. “If you don’t sleep well, you won’t have a good quality of life.”

some questions and then points them in the right direction. But he never recommends anything.

“The person who sleeps on it has to decide,” says Stevens. “Everyone has different preferences.

All of our mattresses offer excellent comfort and durability.”

Stevens, who worked in the mattress industry for several years before opening Wiseguys Mattresses, says, “Never be enchanted with a brand name. I always go by the particular model I’m looking at. There are brands that have both excellent models and models I will not bring into the store.”

Wiseguys Mattresses offers everything from entry-level to high-end products with some unique to the city. Stevens is the only Serta Perfect Day dealer in Saskatoon and the largest dealer for Restwell products. He has the complete Serta iComfort gel memory foam beds on the floor. He also sells electric beds, RV queens and twin extra longs.

Customers appreciate the price points at Wiseguys Mattresses too, although Stevens has never run a sale. Same-day deliveries are free at Wiseguys Mattresses, when available, and all prices include taxes. “My customers range from university students to CEOs of billion-dollar companies,” says Stevens. “They are all people who want a good quality mattress at a good price.”

If you have an old mattress set that needs to be removed when your new one is delivered, Wiseguys Mattresses will take care of that at no charge. “If it’s clean, we make sure it will find a new home instead of going to the dump,” says Stevens. That’s just another way Stevens follows the Golden Rule.

To see what Wiseguys Mattresses have in store, visit them at 6-805 Circle Drive or call 306.652.1212.

Wiseguys Mattresses 6-805 Circle Drive Saskatoon 306.652.1212

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CYCLE SHOP

Gear Up for Fun and Fitness with

BRUCE’S CYCLE WORKS

By Tonya Lambert Photos Lisa Landrie

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he excitement is building at Bruce’s Cycle Works, where owners Neil Clarke and Cory Zetterstrom, and their enthusiastic staff of cyclists, are preparing to introduce Trek bicycles to their store. Trek is the largest bicycle brand in the world, manufacturing a full range of top-quality bicycles including road, mountain, commuter and cruiser bikes. The store already carries

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Specialized and Rocky Mountain brands, and starting in July, Bruce’s Cycle Works will have Trek bikes to add to its already wide selection.

Bruce’s Cycle Works also sells the new, popular “fat bikes” by Specialized and Rocky Mountain. These amazing bikes - which get their name from their four- or five-inch tires - are perfect for winter commuting over snow because the wide tires are great for balance,

provide extra traction, and go over just about everything.

Bruce’s Cycle Works truly has a bike for everyone, regardless of age or ability level. Cory is a trained mechanic with a degree in kinesiology who builds customized parts and modifies bikes to suit special needs. Neil has a master’s degree in engineering which provides him a deep understanding of the technologies used in cycling componentry and design. As well, both

ABOVE L-R Neil Clarke, Cory Zetterstorm OPPOSITE PAGE Staff member with fat bike RIGHT Staff member with Nirve cruiser bike

owners use their Specialized Body Geometry training to ensure that your bike fits you appropriately.

In addition to the large selection of bikes, helmets, clothing, accessories and parts, Bruce’s Cycle Works has a repair shop where trained technicians work on any make or model of bike. They do everything from tune-ups, overhauls and washes to suspension fork overhauls, and custom wheel builds. You can trust the technicians at Bruce’s Cycle Works to only do the work that needs to be done, and they won’t try to sell you something that isn’t necessary.

The 2,800-square-foot store in Sutherland has been in business over 20 years. Opened in 1993 by avid cyclist Bruce Kemp and purchased by his employees Neil and Cory in 2007, the store has long been at the heart of the local cycling community.

All the employees are keen cyclists who commute to work, and many are active bike racers. Both Neil and Cory compete at the highest provincial level in a variety of cycling disciplines and still find time to coach cyclists and help organize various races. Bruce’s Cycle Works is the title sponsor of the BCW Cycling Club and offers support to many other local organizations.

So whether you are looking to commute, bike for pleasure, hit

some of the province’s spectacular cross-country trails, or make winter commuting easier, Bruce’s Cycle Works is the place to go. The knowledgeable and experienced staff can set you up with the bike you need and are always available to answer any concerns and provide expert advice. The bike is just the beginning …

Bruce’s Cycle Works A-1104 Central Ave. Saskatoon 306.934.2552 brucescycleworks@sasktel.net www.brucescycleworks.com

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BISTRO

Bistro One Seventy Two Offers a Fresh New Way to Dine

By Melanie Furlong Photos Lisa Landrie

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istro One Seventy Two has exploded onto North End Saskatoon’s dining scene like the flavours of their zesty fish tacos.

The chili-cilantro dredged white fish panseared in extra virgin olive oil and served on a bed of lettuce with purple cabbage, carrots and a delicious jalapeno garlic aioli is one of the bistro’s most popular dishes.

Served with Bistro One Seventy Two’s take on a bloody Caesar that comes with a slice of bacon threaded on a skewer with

a pickle, sweet onion, chunk of cheese and a spear of pickled asparagus, this lunch or dinner combo is spectacular.

Offering fresh, healthy and flavourful food is just what owner Terry Linsley Kreutzwieser set out to do. “We’ve had a really good response to the menu I’ve created,” she says. “It’s simple food, yet interesting with great flavour combinations.” The new bistro offers a varied lunch and dinner menu that includes gourmet sandwiches, soups,

salads, naan bread pizzas and “bistro bowls” with rice or noodle dishes.

The lobster sandwich is one of the bistro’s signature recipe sandwiches on the rotating menu. Real chunks of lobster claw meat with crab and three kinds of cheese, including smoked Gouda, done with drawn butter and lemon juice on thickcrusted bread gives patrons a reason to check that menu regularly.

Some of Linsley Kreutzwieser’s favourite responses to Bistro One Seventy Two have OPPOSITE Terry Linsley Kreutzwieser, owner

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been from patrons who say they feel as if they were at a dinner party at her home, not at a restaurant. The cosy space has a pretty, upscale interior that allows guests coming from work or home to have a break from it all. Whether you’re seated on a stool at the bar height tables, on the red leather couch or in the leather club chairs, you’ll be made to feel right at home.

But if you can’t stay, Bistro One Seventy Two also does catering and take away. “We offer sandwich and wrap platters, soups and salads, and all of our menu is available for take away,” says Linsley Kreutzwieser. “We even do unique VIP lunch boxes that are completely customizable for each individual.” The VIP lunch boxes come in an individual lunch box with the diner’s name on it and are a great solution for business meetings around the board table.

In the evenings, Bistro One Seventy Two is the perfect spot for a light dinner. Great cocktails, imported beers, a select wine list and the grill menu have made it a nice spot for date nights, hungry commuters and families. “Our spicy udon noodle bowl with strips of sirloin steak or our take on a Vietnamese rice noodle bowl are tasty dinner favourites,” says Linsley Kreutzwieser, who is thrilled to be going independently after owning two restaurant franchises.

“This winter, I decided it was time to challenge myself and start over,” she says. “Going independently has been great because it lets me be creative” If you haven’t been in yet, try Bistro One Seventy Two and experience a fresh new way to dine.

Bistro One Seventy Two 1702 Idlywlyd Drive Saskatoon 306.651.3765 www.bistro172.com

HOURS: 11am to 9pm daily, closed sundays ‘happy hour’ 5pm to 9pm with daily drink and dinner specials

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BoDY aRT

Sense & Sensible Tattooing

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Lisa Landrie

It’s a family affair at Pic-Man Tattoo — the oldest family-operated tattoo studio in Saskatoon.

“W

e’re ver y proud of t h at ,” s ay s Marc Grand’Maison, owner and operator along with his wife, Tracey. At Pic-Man Tattoo, Grand’Maison and his wife have continued to evoke the thoughtful and wise mentality that has made it a reputable and admired business for almost 17 years.

Pic-Man Tattoo specializes in reworking

ABOVE Marc and Tracey Grand’Maison

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old tattoos and body-piercings, but its most significant talent, according to clients, is their customized tattoos.

Wendy Kildaw, a bookkeeper in Unity, explains, “I went to Pic-Man with a story, and all I knew was that I wanted it told in the form of an angel on my shoulder.

They listened to me and came up with an amazing tattoo that not only captured my story but really nailed my feelings too.”

“We put our clients before the almighty dollar,” says Tracey. “We really do our best to educate our clients in what to look for in a tattoo artist and studio — wherever they may go.”

“A studio that is willing to turn people away, or slow them down and educate them on what they are doing to their body before making a quick buck, makes all the difference in the world,” says

Geoff Litwin, an engineering student at the University of Saskatchewan. “You can tell that they care about who comes in to their shop, and how they come out of it.”

At Pic-Man Tattoo, they never want clients to feel intimidated to ask questions, something they describe as tattitude.

“It’s an attitude that some places may have that make the clients feel like it’s their privilege to be there — when in actuality — it’s truly the artist’s privilege that you walked into their studio. We really do care about your tattoo experience,” says Tracey.

Jacki Andre, an exam program coordinator at Disability Services for Students at the University of Saskatchewan, confirms Tracey’s sentiment. “It’s the combination of professionalism and warmth that makes Pic-Man truly stand out. The staff takes all aspects of your visit seriously, from booking the appointment, to advising you on tattoo details, to safety and aftercare. They do all of this with friendliness and concern. They are committed to their profession and to making people happy.”

It may be why Pic-Man Tattoo is a former SABEX award-winning business, which is a series of awards that highlights Saskatoon’s best and brightest businesses each year.

“The staff makes the studio what it is today.

You’re truly not a customer but a person and a friend. They are extremely professional and exceed expectations. Most of all they’re honest and extremely generous people for what they do for the community,” explains Bobby Sekel, head chef of the German Cultural Centre in Saskatoon.

To find out more information, or to book an appointment at Pic-Man Tattoo, please give them a call at 306.384.7887.

They’re open Tuesday noon – 6 p.m., Wednesday by appointment only, Thursday noon – 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday noon – 8 p.m. — and don’t worry …

“Of course it hurts!”

Pic-Man Tattoo and SoMa Studio 226 3rd avenue South 306.384.7887 picman.tattoo@sasktel.net www.picmantattoo.ca

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BRIDAL AND EVENTS

Champagne Bridal & Champagne Events has

Your Wedding Planned from

Dress to Décor

By Tori Stafford Photos Lisa Landrie

P

lanning a wedding can be overwhelming — perhaps now more than ever with countless options available at the click of a button — but the uncertainties associated with shopping online can leave you more overwhelmed than necessary.

That’s why Lynn Ganyo and Amy Grant, co-owners of Champagne Bridal and Champagne Events, strongly suggest choosing a local bridal salon and event planner to ensure your big day goes as planned, and with as little stress as possible. “It is our job to take that overwhelming feeling from [the client] and put them at ease,” says Ganyo. “And that personal service – you are working with someone one-on-one, who cares about your wedding and your vision,” Grant continues. “You won’t get that experience online.”

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Ganyo, Grant and the team at Champagne Bridal and Champagne Events know all too well the anxiety and stress that can come with planning a wedding. Formerly known as the Wedding and Party Boutique, the business has served Saskatoon and area for over 30 years, making the weddings that brides have dreamed of for years happen before their very eyes. Having owned the business since 2009, Ganyo and Grant have made the shift towards focusing in on catering to wedding and bridal needs, and they are proud to offer Saskatoon and area the ability to plan a variety of aspects for their big day all in one place.

When it comes to bridal wear and dressing the ladies in your wedding party, both owners underline the significant difference in the experience brides-to-be have when choosing attire online as

opposed to in a bridal boutique. From the fine details in lace and beading, to sizes, fabrics and timely delivery, the possible pitfalls of ordering online can create much undue stress. “Certainly, looking online and getting ideas is wonderful, but coming in and getting that real experience ... We are experienced and knowledgeable in bridal wear, and can help a bride figure out what she wants,” says Ganyo, noting that over 90 per cent of brides that come into Champagne Bridal with a photo or magazine example of what they want end up leaving with something entirely different.

The same can be said about shopping for bridesmaids dresses. With multiple women to fit, buying a dress that you haven’t seen on your bridal party could lead to a dress that doesn’t work for any of them. And with the price for purchasing in bulk online seemingly tempting, those planning weddings may want to think twice before ordering wedding décor off the Internet, too. Just think, Ganyo expresses, if you order 300 chair sashes, you have to iron them all, not to mention what to do with them after the wedding.

“It can be colour, it can be size, it can be timeliness,” Grant says of the issues that may arise when ordering items online to make your event complete. “When you come to Champagne Events, you choose what you like, and you actually get to see it ... no worrying about what it will look like or if it will be there on time,” Ganyo agrees. “It’s a very special time for everyone involved. Let us do the worrying for you.”

Hair styling by Posh Salon.

Champagne Bridal Champagne Events 3521 8th Street East Saskatoon 306.477.2022 champagnebridalandevents@shaw.ca www.champagnebridal.ca MIDDLE L-R Amy Grant and Lynn Ganyo, owners

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Creative Team Takes the Lead with

Personalized Art Services

CUSTOM FRAMING

Photos Megan Antoniuk Photography

“I

love, love, love what I do,” says Sherry Morris, owner of J&S Picture Frame Warehouse. “We have a great business and a great team that works well together. We try to make sure no customer leaves here unhappy with either the service or the quality of work they received.”

For 36 years, Morris has served the community for all custom photograph and artwork framing needs. In 2001 she incorporated photograph restoration, scanning and large format printing into her business. With endless combinations of frames and mats, customers can see the possibilities that can be done with their photographs and artwork right before their eyes. The J&S team also accepts photo restoration projects that involves taking a photograph, scanning it to become a high resolution digital file, completing whatever changes and corrections are necessary.

This process can help to preserve a customer’s photographic memory that might otherwise be lost. These new digital files can be printed onto acid-free paper, canvas or vinyl. Thanks to the recent addition of a new 60-inch, 12-colour printer, artists and photographers can fully appreciate the superior large format printing services offered at J&S. Aside from the superior technology and expert staff, Morris says the longevity of her business can be attributed to this simple rule: “Customers are always No. 1.”

Morris, already a member of Trusted Saskatoon, was recently awarded the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Outstanding Ethics and Integrity in Business, in the Retail Products and Services Category. Morris says the win came as a surprise, but she is embracing it wholeheartedly. “Our customers are

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always the first priority. If you come to our business to have an item framed, and after all is completed, tell me you do not like the mat selection, then we will get together and look for a new one. We’ve had customers return after taking their work home, and tell us that the colour or style is just not right. We will then make it right.”

Selecting the proper frame and matting can be difficult, Morris acknowledges.

“When a customer has their project hanging in their home, we want them to be totally satisfied and happy with it.”

Everything Morris and her team do is done in-house at the J&S shop. This is an essential part of the personalized service given to each and every customer. “People need to know that their treasures are being taken care of properly,” Morris explains. At J&S, the staff that assist you at the counter are an integral part of the team that will be completing your project.

People often hand over family heirlooms and ask the team to safeguard them and turn them into a cherished piece of art.

“Customer satisfaction and creativity — those are two things that are very important here!” says John Cave, J&S’s in-house reprographics expert. “We are always striving to come up with new ideas for displaying your photographs, artwork or family treasures.”

Whether you are an artist wishing to make prints of your artwork, a parent seeking creative framing for your children’s masterpieces, or looking to transform your grandmother’s dusty collectibles into a priceless framed memorabilia, the creative team at J&S Picture Frame Warehouse will find the perfect way to display your piece of art.

Above L - R John Cave and Sherry Morris

®

J&S Picture Frame Warehouse 121 Jessop Avenue Saskatoon 306.373.1171

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ELECTRICAL COMPANY

Getting Electrical Jobs Done Right the First Time Photos Calvin Fehr

M

r. Electric® of Saskatoon has been of f e r i n g comprehensive residential and commercial electrical services in Saskatchewan since 2009. The company offers repairs, upgrades and installations, delivering high customer satisfaction by getting the job done right the first time.

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Ross Kostron, local owner of Mr. Electric of Saskatoon, has been in the electrical business since 1997. “Being able to serve our customers as well as meet and exceed their needs has been my focus, so they can see why we are the best and that there are contractors you can trust,” says Kostron.

Their courteous technicians respect your home, family and business, providing

attention to detail that ensures quality and safe work. No matter what electrical contractor services you need, Mr. Electric has the power to make things better.

Electrical issues can be intimidating, but working with an electrical contractor from Mr. Electric helps you make informed choices about available solutions, ensuring a successful outcome. Whether

“

We have used Mr. Electric on three occasions at our home, and Cody exceeds our expectations every time! Mr. Electric was by far the most professional electrician we received quotes from and always the most thorough in detailing the costs and outcome. We have an old home and it’s great to have professionals we can trust when maintaining and upgrading it.”

—Eric B. RIGHT Jason Pingert, owner of Glass Doctor Saskatoon; Photo courtesy of Lisa Landrie

you’re giving your home a makeover, addressing safety issues, or protecting your pocketbook from soaring energy costs, Mr. Electric offers residential and commercial services to help you reach your goals.

“In all the years I’ve been running my store, there has never been a company that has come close to offering the quality of service and professionalism given by the Mr. Electric staff,” states Jason Pingert of The Glass Doctor.

Looking to update and add value to your home with upgrades and improvements?

Whether you’re installing light fixtures, replacing old, worn-out appliances with more efficient options, increasing security with lighting, or doing electrical safety checkups, Mr. Electric is here to help you tackle your to-do list with ease.

Mr. Electric’s first priority is your family’s safety and security. Their partnership with Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) provides accurate, up-to-date information about electrical safety to

better protect your home and family.

Complimentary electrical safety checkups help you identify areas for improvement, such as installing GFCI outlets, wiring upgrades, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, identifying electrical fire and shock threats, and more.

“Mr. Electric’s technicians are always on time and always get the job done right the first time. They have upfront pricing, which is important to homeowners,” states Troy Stengler of Mr. Rooter Plumbing and Aireserv.

Mr. Electric’s electrical contractor services offer custom lighting design and quality installation for projects such as adding security with motion detector lights, installing dimmers and timers for energy savings and convenience, and setting the perfect ambiance in your home with custom lighting.

Are your energy costs going up? Make wise decisions about appliance upgrades and energy sources by scheduling a home

energy audit and learn how you can start saving today. Whether you are considering switching to solar power, or just need to install a ceiling fan, ask them about surge protection for all your precious electronic equipment including your new LED bulbs.

Mr. Electric of Saskatoon is here to help!

Mr. Electric 101 - 2834 Millar Avenue Saskatoon 306.500.9625 www.mrelectric.com

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FITTING SHOP

The Right Fit,

With Compassion

L

ast November, Germaine Mason went to Pink Tree, a Saskatoon fitting shop that’s been serving clients for 23 years, and started trying on wigs. She had recently undergone a mastectomy, and knew this aspect of her appearance would be altered from chemotherapy.

“The staff was so accommodating,” she says. “They don’t treat you like you’re a sick person, they treat you like a normal person. They try to make you feel good and are very understanding.”

Germaine’s experience is a reflection of what Pink Tree owner, Anita Kerr, says is the shop’s “culture of care.” Along with wigs, Pink Tree specializes in mastectomy supplies and garments, bras for everyone,

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compression therapy products, and sunprotective clothing. “We provide a client with as much as they need to help them get back to their normal lifestyle and well-being,” says Anita. “The staff want them to feel valued and important.” The team is extensively trained and certified in fitting these products, and offers personal assistance to both men and women.

Proper fitting for compression therapy items is another important component of the services they offer.

While many of Pink Tree’s clientele turn to the shop for items that aid in health issues, many products are suitable for all women.

Bras, swimwear and sports tops are offered for both regular and mastectomy wear, as well as pajamas that feature built-in bras.

By Courtney Tait Photos Lisa Landrie

Breast pumps and breastfeeding bras are also available for nursing mothers.

Pink Tree continually expands their selection, and has recently added two new lines to their headpiece wear, which includes scarves, turbans and beanies. Their professional-grade wigs feature current styles offered in a range of colours and sizes. The shop provides products from all of the major manufacturers, enabling them to offering competitive pricing. “We’re one of the few places that carry so many items under the same roof,” says Anita. Pink Tree’s annual September sale draws new and regular clientele each year.

An advocate for breast health, Pink Tree supports local events that increase

awareness. They recently participated in Saskatoon’s first Bust a Move for Breast HealthTM, a nation-wide fundraiser that celebrates positive advancements for breast health. “We’ve always supported the community in breast health awareness,” says Anita. “It is important for everyone, whatever stage you’re at.”

Due to its long-standing service and excellent reputation, Pink Tree works closely with their clients’ health providers, including physicians, physiotherapists and surgeons. They encourage clients to visit the shop prior to an upcoming surgery as well as after, as understanding their prosthesis and hairpiece options prepares them for healing.

“Our goal is to provide the best service we can,” says Anita. “If they want to talk about what they are going through, we are there to listen and support them.”

For Germaine, the shop has been an invaluable resource in her healing process, providing her with wigs as well as a prosthesis, bras, a breast form and sports tops for working out, and a compression sleeve. “The staff are very sympathetic to the situation and not judgemental in any way,” she says. “They are very compassionate.”

Pink Tree The Fitting Shop #1-701 2nd Ave N Saskatoon 306.665.6544 pinktree@sasktel.net www.pinktree.ca L-R Pink Tree staff: Michelle, Maureen, Penny, Karen, Jane and Anita

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FLOORING

You’ll be Floored by the Selection and Service

By Tonya Lambert Photos Lisa Landrie

O

ver the past dozen years, Cornerstone Flooring & Interiors in Saskatoon has experienced incredible growth. Starting out dealing exclusively in tile, Cornerstone has expanded several times and now offers everything for your flooring needs, as well as window treatments. “We attribute our tremendous growth and success over the past 12 years to our reputation for providing the very best in total quality flooring solutions for

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both your home and commercial needs,” explains Trevor Pickerl, co-owner of Cornerstone along with Janice Williams.

Cornerstone carries one of the largest tile selections in the city, with such top brands as Euro, Ames, Ceratec, Dal-Tile and Olympia. “Tiles are durable, affordable and extremely popular right now,” says Williams. “People are using tiles not only for flooring but also to create unique backsplashes and feature walls that are truly works of art. Many customers are

using tiles for exterior work, as well.”

In addition to its enviable range of tiles in a wide variety of sizes and colours, Cornerstone also has an incredible team of experienced and professional installers.

The store’s amazing selection of not only tiles, but also carpeting, hardwood, laminate, vinyl and natural stone floorings, area rugs and blinds can be viewed in their extensive show room. The knowledgeable staff will help you to find the perfect flooring to match your lifestyle, taste

and budget. Expertly-trained design consultants are also on hand to answer all your questions and offer insightful advice.

Cornerstone offers some truly unique, eco-friendly flooring options. Mohawk SmartStrand with Dupont Sorona is made from renewably-sourced polymer and corn fibres and is naturally stain and soil resistant, requiring only water to remove any dirt or stains. Lauzon’s Pure Genius® Air-Purifying Smart Floor is a sustainable hardwood floor; its special finish breaks down the toxic contaminants emanating from many types of furniture, transforming them into harmless molecules and making the air you breathe 85 per cent cleaner and healthier.

Whether you choose a comfortable carpet, a rustic hardwood or a versatile laminate,

when you pair beautiful flooring from Cornerstone with their exquisite window treatments, you will achieve that perfect ambience for your home or office. The owners and staff at Cornerstone are proud to be able to offer their customers highend Graber blinds, which carry a lifetime warranty on all their mechanisms. You can choose from cellular or wood blinds, shutters or solar shades; the team at Cornerstone will help you to find the ideal match for your décor. “At Cornerstone Flooring & Interiors, we will assist you in creating a functional, practical and stylish home you will love,” says Courtney, one of the store’s design consultants.

Locally-owned and –operated, the owners and staff at Cornerstone understand the needs and desires of local home owners.

As members of the Saskatoon Home

Builders Association and North Saskatoon Business Association, Cornerstone keeps on top of the trends in the city’s housing market. With its great selection, professional staff and local knowledge, Cornerstone is Saskatoon’s one-stop-shop for great flooring and elegant window treatments. Says Pickerl, “At Cornerstone Flooring & Interiors, we are large enough to have the selection you desire but small enough to offer the truly personalized and dependable service you expect.”

Cornerstone Flooring & Interiors #7 – 844 51st St. E. 306.955.4441 cornerstoneflooring@sasktel.net www.cornerstoneflooring.ca

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FURNITURE

Creating

One-of-a-Kind Spaces

By Trina Annand

A home is an oasis from the stress and chaos of everyday life. It should be a space that reflects your family and personal sense of style. At International Furniture Wholesalers (IFW) the highly trained staff is dedicated to helping clients find the perfect piece for their home whether it is accents and accessories, the final piece of furniture to tie it all together or outfitting an entire house.

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P

eople can sometimes feel stressed when selecting furnishings, especially when they are looking for a specific piece to complement their homes. At IFW we make it fun and painless. We provide our clients with the largest breadth of options with the most customization available and are still able to offer a great price,” remarks sales associate Tanya Adolf.

IFW’s hands-on approach ensures that clients get exactly what they are looking for. The family-owned-and-operated “

business has a simple philosophy: ensure that customers get the best possible service by treating them like part of the family, an approach that has garnered the company a loyal following.

Once a client has decided on a particular style, whether it is fun and modern, distressed traditional, industrial chic or anything in between, the most important factor becomes comfort. Clean line modern designs can be every bit as comfortable as overstuffed traditional furniture – it is about finding the right fit physically

and environmentally. Having the perfect furniture in a home can be a mood elevator and provide a homeowner with an enriched sense of self when seeing guests react to their unique space. Enjoyment of space shouldn’t end in the public places of your home. We often neglect our more private space, our bedroom, and yet that is where we spend the most time in our home.

Starting the day out right after a restful night’s sleep means you’ve picked the right mattress and the right mattress can mean the difference between an average day

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and a great day. IFW offers a wide variety of mattresses, including products that are endorsed by the Canadian Chiropractic Association, mattresses made with soybased bio foam and cooling agents to ensure a perfect night’s sleep and an even better morning. “Buying a new mattress is often time sensitive. The in-laws are coming for a visit; a friend is coming to stay for a while.

To ensure our clients get what they need when they need it, IFW carries one of the largest selections of in-stock mattresses in the city,” notes Tanya. When space is tight in a modern condo or apartment visitors to IFW can find a wide variety of alternative sleep solutions, including wall beds, sleep

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chests, davenports and so much more with custom sizing available on most products.

Whether having that first cup of coffee happens at a breakfast bar, the dining table or sitting in a favourite chair in the living room reading the newspaper IFW has creative furniture options for any space.

Dining and seating options range from the traditional woods to modern bar height stools and glass tables. IFW is always on the lookout for the newest trends while carrying current client favourites.

Courtesy of their extensive supplier partnerships IFW enjoys the very best selection of customizable furnishings in the

city, the sky is literally the limit for customers looking for a truly one of a kind piece.

Working with a Tennessee-based custom upholstery company, IFW offers over 400 leather choices, 1,500 different frame choices and can even provide a unique thread colour like Pantone’s colour of the year orchid for the design savvy client.

Making the most out of outdoor spaces is a choice that is gaining interest with homeowners. Creating a living space that is tailored to their lifestyle whether they are grill masters or avid spa users ensures that they can make the most out of the warmer months. “We are working to offer our clients more customized options for outdoor

furniture. Our clients’ yards should be as unique as they are and their style should flow seamlessly from inside to out,” remarks Tanya.

IFW carries an extensive line of spas that are rated for year around use, designed specifically to endure the harsh climate of the Arctic Circle, but are perfectly at home in Saskatchewan.

Imagine the luxury of a personal spa to enjoy with family and friends that is completely customizable with sound systems, jets, waterfalls, chromatheraphy and are capable of being controlled by a smartphone. Offering everything clients need is a professional point of pride at IFW including quality spa chemicals and cleaning products for all types of home furnishings.

International Furniture Wholesalers always has something new to discover. One of Saskatoon’s best kept secrets, IFW allows clients to shop where the best designers and builders in the city shop, find products from around the world and at fantastic prices. You don’t need to work with a designer or builder to shop at IFW and Tanya is quick to offer advice to people who are working with designers, “It’s important to trust your gut. Sometimes you love a particular finish, but it’s not durable enough for three kids and a dog. There are plenty of ways to get the look you want without changing your lifestyle completely, you need to be honest with a designer about all your requirements. Styles should accommodate you, not the other way around.” Educating clients on styles and little details that make furniture unique and durable is IFW’s specialty. Making the right decision is about more than fabric and colour, it is all about functionality and creativity.

When envisioning a space that is uniquely yours, there is only one place where you can completely personalize your furniture selection, or when time is of the essence choose from our vast selection of in-stock options.

With their friendly family atmosphere, the staff of IFW are always ready to make a home a perfect extension of who you are and what you do. Enjoy more of your life with a visit to International Furniture Wholesalers.

International Furniture Wholesalers 3402 Faithfull Avenue 306.955.1031 www.InternationalFurnitureWholesalers.ca

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GOLF COURSE

Good Times

at the Saskatoon Golf and Country Club By melanie furlong Photos Courtesy of Saskatoon Golf and Country Club

S

ummer has finally arrived and golfer Don Draper is thrilled to be hitting the greens at Saskatoon Golf and Country Club (SGCC) again. Draper has been a member of the club for the last 17 years. He’s one of approximately 600 Saskatonians who come back year after year to enjoy the premium benefits of membership at Saskatoon’s oldest private club.

Whether you’re on the championship greens, practicing at the driving range or enjoying drinks or eats on the two clubhouse decks, the SGCC is a beautiful place to enjoy with other members and guests.

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Many types of membership are available to suit a wide range of golfers. Draper has a full membership that provides him with access to all the club’s services.

That includes access to the 18-hole championship golf course and unlimited use of the practice facility, which has a 3-hole practice loop, driving range and short game practice area.

“We really enjoy the clubhouse and we have great practice facilities,” says Draper, “the best in the province. We have a double-ended driving range so you can hit balls from either end of the range. If the sun is low and you don’t want it in your eyes, you can go to other end of range.”

Other types of memberships include junior memberships for those 18 and under; social memberships, which include five rounds of golf and are often used by members who may have had injuries; corporate memberships; restricted memberships; 30-round and 15-round memberships. But one of the fastest growing categories of memberships is for young professionals.

Don Ludwig, general manager at the SGCC, says, “Our young professional membership is promotionally priced to encourage young adults. When they come of age, perhaps they’ll become full members. They are a dynamic group of

READ

SaSkatoon Charity Golf EvEnt for litEraCy

September 8, 2014 9 a.m.—Registration 10 a.m.—Shot Gun Start 4 p.m.—Awards Banquet Registration is $185 per golfer.

Includes 18 holes of golf, power cart, lunch, the awards banquet and a charitable receipt.

Call to rEGiStEr toDay. limitED SpaCE availablE.

players and add a great level of energy to the club.”

The club offers a number of special golf events throughout the season for all its members and guests, but other special events can also be arranged by events coordinator, Deb Montour. Weddings and receptions are popular, as well as family reunions. Inside, receptions can hold up to 200 people and up to 150 guests can be accommodated for a sit down dinner. The club has developed a new outdoor area called Lakeside Gardens. It includes a large tent that holds approximately 200 people on the club’s picturesque grounds along with a fire pit area.

This spring, Pam Rowse and her husband, Corey, hosted their wedding and reception at the SGCC. “The staff were very accommodating,” says Rowse. The couple held their wedding ceremony outside, did photos on the grounds, and had cocktails and a buffet dinner for about 100 guests.

“We liked having everything at one location so people weren’t travelling,” says Rowse. “Our guests said they loved the food and the big oversized patio furniture, and we really liked having access to one of the balconies overlooking the course. It was awesome.”

Saskatoon Golf and Country Club 865 Cartwright St. W. Saskatoon 306.931.0022 www.saskatoongcc.com

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Changing How You See the World

HOME, AUTO AND BUSINESS GLASS

One Piece of Glass at a Time

By Trina Annand Photos Lisa Landrie

I

n 1962 a single mobile glass shop was started in Seattle. Now Glass Doctor has over 300 locations in Canada and the United States. Jason Pingert always dreamed of owning his own business, so when the opportunity to join the Glass Doctor team arrived it was an easy choice. “What I like about glass is the diversity. The glass industry is everywhere; it’s in our cars, homes and businesses.

Pretty much everywhere you look you can see glass,” remarks Pingert. With a team dedicated to customer service, Glass Doctor can take on all types of projects big and small. From commercial and business to automotive and residential services the Glass Doctor handles it all with a convenient mobile approach.

With five employees Glass Doctor has a small and friendly family feel. The certified and highly trained technicians make sure that the job is done right every time. “We believe our product isn’t just what we sell: our product is how the customer feels when we’re finished. If they’re happy we have done our job. It’s about developing a relationship with a customer and keeping them for life,” notes Pingert. Training is the key at Glass Doctor; Pingert himself went to Glass Doctor University in Waco Texas, knowing their products is fundamental to Glass Doctor’s success.

The company takes on all types of projects; residential, commercial and auto — after all, glass is everywhere. As with all Glass Doctor products the emphasis is on high quality workmanship. The company even uses their skills to create one-of-a-kind

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custom furniture. When residential clients or designers have a unique idea for glass in their space, it is best to work with a professional to see what is possible. Glass Doctor has worked with a number of local designers bringing their visions to life.

From custom-cut mirrors and table tops, to a custom all-glass desk with special UV glue, the sky is the limit at Glass Doctor.

The company even has a program that can render a three-dimensional image of the project allowing customers to see their custom projects in the space. “Anything you can think of that could be glass in a home, we do,” remarks Pingert.

For those looking for more traditional residential glass services, Glass Doctor

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still provides broken window replacement, mirrors for vanities, as well as custom fitted shower enclosures. Unique at Glass Doctor is insulated glass replacement; the team can replace glass in double or triple paned windows with ease. Glass Doctor can get the fog out of your windows for good. New to Glass Doctor this year is Clear Choice, a glass treatment that much like a countertop sealer. It seals the pores of home and auto glass to keep stains and hard water marks from penetrating into the glass. This product keeps glass flawless and easy to clean.

The ease of mobility at Glass Doctor allows all types of vehicle glass replacement — whether it is a car in their well-equipped

shop or farm equipment outside of the city. The company is willing to work in any location, with a service area that extends an hour outside of Saskatoon.

The team takes special care with all their projects and can replace auto glass of any shape or size with manufacturer’s quality replacements. Glass Doctor even offers a unique G12 guarantee: if the windshield is damaged or broken within 12 months of being replaced, the company will repair or replace it. Yet another way that customer’s come first at Glass Doctor.

For commercial services the company offers much more than mere window replacement. Glass doctor does full scale commercial build outs, creating desks,

glass walls and frosted panels that at the flip of a switch can go from regular looking glass to frosted glass for privacy. One of the largest commercial projects Glass Doctor has completed is the ICR Commercial Real Estate Brokerage Office.

Glass doctor is also very popular with local fitness clubs in Saskatoon, doing work for Moksha Yoga and Goodlife Fitness, to name a few. Creating 60-foot-long stretches of mirror in some cases. Glass Doctor also offers storefront glass with a unique approach. The company has a 24-hour emergency line, so that business owners who have broken windows or doors can secure their business for the night and get some rest. “We feel it is important to be there for our customers. If a customer gets a call in the middle of the night that their store or business has been broken into, they know they can call us to come at any time,” notes Pingert.

Whether clients need replacement glass for a vehicle or home or want to completely renovate a space using new high tech glass, Glass Doctor is the best choice. Highly trained experts with decades of industry experience ensure that customers get the look and quality they are searching for and their friendly nature makes customers feel like family. With thousands of projects throughout Saskatoon and its surrounding areas it is safe to say everyone has seen their work. Trust Glass Doctor with your projects and you won’t be disappointed.

“We are very pleased with the work done by Jason and his staff from Glass Doctor in our recent home renovation. The glass doors and showers in our bathrooms are a real stand out feature and make these rooms really great spaces. The product quality, installation service and follow up were of a high caliber. Their service was prompt and very reliable. They were professional and pleasant in all their dealings with us. In short, we are very happy and would unconditionally recommend Glass Doctor.”

—Paula and David Nielsen

“Jason and the team of professionals at Glass Doctor completed our office upgrade and renovations in a timely efficient manner. ICR is continually receiving compliments on all of the glass work, particularly the electronic privacy glass installed in the boardroom. Great experience, quality work, on time and on budget.“ —Ron Ritchie

“We had a great deal of work done on our home this past spring — the professionalism of your employees, the care they took with our home and the quality of workmanship really stood out.”“ —Jan Spencer/Randy Kutcher

LEFT Jason Pingert, owner

Glass Doctor 101 - 2834 Millar Avenue Saskatoon 306.500.7591 www.glassdoctor.com |

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Providing

Peace of Mind

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICE

& Caring

By Rebecca Henderson

N

urse Next Door Home Care Services provides flexible, affordable and quality home care options to Saskatoon seniors. Since 2009, owners Rob and Heather Van Norman have been reminded every day why they love caring for seniors.

When hiring, the Nurse Next Door Saskatoon team carefully evaluates technical skills as well as emotional ones to determine whether a candidate has the caring, cheerful and patient attitude that is key to become a Nurse Next Door caregiver. “We want to ensure a perfect match by evaluating a caregiver’s skills and demeanour with our client’s needs,” explains Rob. “Furthermore, we don’t just believe that any caregiver is a match for a client.” If a client spent 40 years on a farm in Aberdeen, they will assign a caregiver with a farming background. If a client adores bruschetta and antipasto before a lovingly-cooked Rigatoni con la Pagliata, they will assign a caregiver who specializes in Italian cooking.

Rob says these matches are also more than just meeting a client’s practical needs; it’s about satisfying the emotional needs of a client as well. “Our team understands that these are individuals with unique skills, loves, desires and interests.”

Four years ago, Ruth needed to find support for her three brothers to continue living independently in the same house where they had been together for more than 40 years. What made Ruth’s situation difficult was that she also lived outside of province. After consulting with the Nurse Next Door team, Heather created a comprehensive care plan that not only fit

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the same caregiver transported him home, attended to his medical needs and prepared a fantastic and nutritious meal for the trio.

“Rob’s team of caring professionals are more than just helpers,” says Ruth.

“They’re trusted and valued friends.

They’ve been with us every step of the way and we call it a godsend. We could easily have gone with another company, but the Nurse Next Door team truly understands that it’s not just about health care — they truly care.”

“What is important to Nurse Next Door is that it’s about caring, not just health care,” says Heather, an accomplished RN with more than 30 years of nursing experience. “This means more than providing nutritious meals, safe baths and medical care. It means getting seniors back to doing the things they love and finding creative ways to restore a joy for living.”

Ruth’s budget, but provided her with peace of mind.

“I felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders,” she says. “Rob’s team has been involved with my family’s care for four years now, and we would not have it any other way. We’ve had a few caregivers in four years, and they all truly feel like family.”

The Nurse Next Door team is now number one on their speed dial — and for good reason. One weekend, after one of the brothers was hospitalized, doctors informed the family that for him to return home, they required raised toilet seats and bed rails to be installed. A Nurse Next Door caregiver worked after-hours to ensure everything was set up so he could return home. After he was discharged,

Nurse Next Door’s Saskatoon office provides a full spectrum of in-home care services ranging from three hoursper-week friendly companionship, dementia support and delicious meals to around-the-clock nursing care, including palliative care.

“We promise to do whatever it takes to bring peace of mind to a senior and their family,” says Heather. “It’s about celebrating aging and truly making lives better.”

TOP Rob and Heather VanNorman, owners. Photo by Nadine Peppler

Nurse Next Door 306.716.2329 www.nursenextdoor.com

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INTERIOR DESIGN AND DÉCOR

Design Expertise &

Trend-Setting Décor

By Erin Legg Photos Lisa Landrie

W

ith all of the home furnishing and décor options available, enlisting the help of a professional can take the stress and guesswork out of creating the perfect space. Finding a professional’s help and an endless array of furniture, drapery, home accents, lighting and art all under one roof? That is priceless.

in-store and in-home, at a time that is convenient for the client,” says Tracy Bentham, owner. “We have two talented designers on staff with years of experience.

We specialize in Hunter Douglas window treatments, custom drapery and custom bedding, as well as offering a vast selection of fabrics for upholstering pieces. What makes [Sew & Home] unique is that we provide it all in one place.”

This is the advantage to be had at Saskatoon’s Sew & Home Furniture and Design. “Sew & Home is a furniture and décor store, but we also provide complimentary design services, both

Bentham, a Certified Management Accountant, and her husband Luke, a journeyman carpenter, took over the business this past January. The couple share an avid passion for architecture

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and design, so much so they even plan vacations around design and architecture exhibits (for example, the Benthams travel to Palm Springs in February for Modernism Week, and last June visited Los Angeles to take in the Dwell on Design Conference). Tracy has a few design courses under her belt and throughout the years, the Benthams have even built a few spec houses here in Saskatoon, truly experiencing all stages of design. So when the opportunity arose to take over Sew & Home Furniture and Design, it seemed like a natural progression.

L - R Luke Bentham, Tracy Bentham, Kellyn Wasko and Keeley Kapiniak

Whether you are building a new home or updating the look of your existing one, Sew & Home is the place you need to go. When clients enter the doors of the spacious shop, the knowledgeable staff engage with them to find out exactly what they need. “A lot of people are unsure [about design options], so it’s nice to have someone guide you through the process, or even just validate your selections,” Bentham explains.

Bentham attends buying shows three to four times a year to ensure that Sew & Home’s offerings are always up-to-date and showcased right here in Saskatoon.

They carry many furniture lines, but more specifically are exclusive dealers in

the highly functional G. Romano line, the young and hip Gus line, the brand new Ion Design line, and the timeless Brownstone collection.

Clients are invited to peruse the vast selection on the floor, or utilize the complimentary design services to help with the decision-making process. To facilitate these consultations, Bentham explains they are currently renovating for a design studio in the store with all of the design resources needed for clients: “Our designers will be able to sit down in a dedicated space with each client and go over all the elements they are looking for.”

Recently, Sew & Home supplied the furniture, décor and window coverings

for the Kinsmen Riverfront Home Lottery house. This project demonstrates how the correct furniture and accents can influence the overall feeling in a home. Sew & Home also offers a New Home Owners Furniture package, that includes the service of one of the designers. How can you go wrong with that?

Sew & Home Furniture and Design is truly a one-stop-shop for all elements of design. Stop in today to experience it for yourself.

Sew & Home Furniture and Design 601 B 1st Avenue North, Saskatoon 306.373.2332 www.sewandhome.com

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INVESTMENTS

Listening Key To Finding Financial Solutions

B

ecause brothers Shannon and Byron Briske grew up on a farm, they know all about planting seeds and planning for the harvest. As financial advisors with Assante Financial Management Ltd., they strive to make sure their clients reap good returns from their investments and planning. To do that, they start with a lot of questions.

“Our success is really driven by the process with the clients and really getting down to knowing what makes them tick,” says Shannon. “It really starts with a blank piece of paper. A lot of people in our

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industry push people into cookie-cutter solutions, whereas we really customize our offerings to each individual.”

Byron thinks their success is driven by their unique understanding of their clients’ needs. A 60-year-old client is thinking about having enough money for retirement and leaving a legacy, while a 45-year-old client is probably trying to grow a business and provide for a family.

Their needs are very different because they are at different stages of life.

“We give people a few different options to consider based on what’s happening in

their life right now,” says Shannon. “A lot of people focus on retirement planning, but there has to be a balance. You have to enjoy your life too.”

That means giving consideration to holidays, children, spouse, financing and education — any number of things — and making decisions for today that will also take into account lifestyle goals in the future.

“What we want to do is paint the picture of someone’s dream lifestyle in retirement while balancing living for today,” says Shannon. “What makes each of us happy is what is most important in planning. We

Salaried clients working at a business that matches retirement contributions are the easy cases. For the Briskes, the fun ones are with small business owners. In the niche they most often serve, many people don’t have pension plans, but have sizeable financial resources tied up in their business.

The challenge becomes unlocking those assets in the most efficient way. They are business owners or self-employed people or farmers, so that’s where the financial planning becomes very critical. Many people don’t think about the complexities involved when a business owner plans for retirement.

It’s the job of the Briskes to help them plan an income stream without jeopardizing the business. They might also find solutions for passing the firm onto one child, while ensuring the financial future of another through insurance or estate planning.

“There are a lot of considerations with family businesses, especially on the agriculture side,” says Shannon. “And there are some ‘soft’ issues there that a lot of people just don’t understand and we think we’re really good at that from growing up on the farm. There are potential family conflicts that require pointed questions and candour.”

try to build that structure to allow them to achieve those goals.”

Byron says many financial advisors have it backward. They claim to have a solution for a client without knowing anything about the person. Before proposing anything, the Briskes follow a focused discovery process.

The first meeting is like an interview where they ask many questions. They are looking to make sure the client-advisor relationship is a good fit both ways to begin a lasting relationship. Then it’s a matter of serving the needs of client, whether it’s estate planning, financing, insurance, tax planning or investing.

“Our message is that we’re a full-service, client-focused, solution-focused shop and we really start at the ground level,” says Byron. “We have a suite of services available for clients to choose from to help them achieve the lifestyle they want now and into retirement. We have all the tools in the toolbox and we will find the right ones.”

The Briskes often work with high net worth clients, agricultural business owners and other types of entrepreneurs. They are the type of people who have more complex planning needs involving trusts and corporations.

One of the strengths of the Assante Financial Management Ltd.’s system is the independence its advisors have in choosing investments for their clients. “No one’s telling us ‘You have to sell this because it’s the best thing for the firm.’ We provide unbiased advice, and that really helps us build the best roadmap for our clients using the best of the best products,” says Shannon.

“We see ourselves as the quarterback and we’ll bring in other professionals as needed once we see the risks and opportunities for each individual.”

Shannon says he and Byron love their jobs so much because every client — new or existing — poses some kind of challenge as their lives change.

“Finding that solution is what gets us up in the morning.”

Assante Financial Management Ltd. 301 500 Spadina Crescent East Saskatoon 306.665.3244 sbriske@assante.com bbriske@assante.com www.thebriskefinancialgroup.com

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KIDS VENUE

Come enjoy the unique Crickle Creek experience located minutes south from Saskatoon on picturesque Valley Road With Mini Golf, Par 3 Golf Course and our one of a kind "Fun Zone", we offer entertainment for all ages Finish your adventure off with a cold treat from "What"s the Scoop! Ice Cream Works".With activities for all ages, bring the whole family and spend the day!

FUN ZONE—THE CIRCUS HAS COME TO TOWN Under 2 - Free 2 and 3 - $5.00 4 years old - $9.50 Fun Zone and Mini Golf Combo $12.00 Open daily 11 am to 9 pm weather permitting

MNIATURE GOLF COURSE An Adventure in Miniature Golf Child (12 and Under) - $5.00 Adult (13 and Up) - $6.00 Group of 4 or More - $5.00 each

CRICKLE CREEK 305 Valley Road, Saskatoon (a few km SW of Cirlce Drive S) 306.251.0116 | www.cricklecreek.ca

PITCH AND PUTT 18 HOLE PAR 3 Bringing Fun & Affordability Back to Golf

WHATS THE SCOOP Ice Cream Works

9 Holes - $7.00 18 Holes - $14.00

Home of the Authentic Milkshake

LOCAL SPIRITS

LUCKY BASTARD DOES IT BEST: Taste Quality Spirits at LB Distillers

By Henny Buffinga

W

e all dream of quitting our jobs to run a brewery or distillery: Cary Bowman actually did it. Four years

distillery full time. Along with his partners

this experience: Lucky Bastard.

Lacey Crocker and Lotto 649 winner

ago he started LB Distillers, and he recently

product line and loving every minute of it.

LB creates high-end spirits in-house, and staff love giving tours. “Most people don’t realize how it’s all made,” says Bowman, President of Good Times. “They know what they like and what they don’t like, but they

retired from the banking industry to run the

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Michael Goldney, he is building a company with an international award winning Fittingly, that company is named to embody

don’t necessarily know what’s in it. We have an open door policy; as long as we’re not doing anything dangerous, we will drop everything to give a tour.”

On their tours they talk about what a micro distillery is and how everything is made.

“Being a craft distiller, we’re very small so we can actually walk people through the entire process. They can touch and taste the grains, taste the alcohol coming right off the still, stick their nose in a bunghole of a barrel and smell a beautiful single malt whisky aging in a cask. It’s quite an intimate experience,” says Bowman. Every tour ends in their tasting room so guests can sample everything they saw being made.

Their flagship product is the Lucky Bastard Vodka, which is a premium wheat based vodka. There are two versions of this product, the original and the black label, which is available in the SLGA liquor stores.

Both versions are incredibly smooth; so smooth, in fact, that the original Lucky Bastard took home the silver medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition last year.

LB’s other specialty is a new western dry style of gin. For this gin they pulled back the juniper berry, which gives the pine taste to most gins, and added botanicals

like chamomile and Saskatoon berry for a more floral taste. They also sell a black label version in the SLGA as well.

For World Gin Day, LB premiered a haute version of the Gambit Gin, aging it in a once used rum barrel. “Back in the day, when they didn’t have stainless steel tanks, gin would actually be transported from around the world in oak barrels,” says Bowman. “It picks up the colour as well as some vanillas and caramels from the oak.”

They also produce a scotch-style malted whisky. Unlike large distilleries that make 300 barrels a day, LB produces one barrel at a time, so they like to make it count by creating unique combinations. Currently they are trying some whisky made with fresh quinoa, and they are experimenting with some cocoa, vanilla and berry combinations. LB rounds out their product line with cocktail bitters, flavoured vodkas and rum made with imported Caribbean sugar cane and molasses.

Perfect for company team-building events or even bachelor and bachelorette parties, LB can provide an intimate setting with tables spread out amongst the barrels. They are able to provide bartenders and catering options, and can comfortably host 50 guests.

Moscow Mule 2 oz. Lucky Bastard Vodka 4-6 oz. Fentimans Ginger Beer 1/2 lime • In a glass squeeze lime and drop into glass. Add ice. Pour Lucky Bastard Vodka over ice and add cold ginger beer. Cheers.

To try their award-winning products, visit them today, or call to order for delivery in Saskatchewan.

LB Distillers 1925 Ave. B North, Saskatoon 306.979.7280 www.luckybastard.ca |

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PROFESSIONAL RECRUITMENT SPECAILISTS

Specialized Recruiting Solutions Delivered Locally

D

avid Aplin Group provides specialized, full-ser vice recruiting and HR solutions throughout Saskatchewan.

Their professional consultants are passionate about meeting their clients’ recruiting needs – ensuring complete satisfaction with their processes and facilitating hiring success for every organization they partner with – from local entrepreneurs to Fortune 500s.

Aplin’s proven track record, nearly four decades long, is largely due to their team of highly skilled and successful specialists. “We have an incredible team in

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Saskatchewan,” says Jacqueline Gallagher, Managing Consultant. “As a local search provider we are able to provide speed of delivery – our consultants make local candidate connections in order to deliver the best possible talent for our clients on a timely basis.”

Canadian owned and operated since 1975 and with 10 office locations coast-to-coast, David Aplin Group continues to be a leader in the professional search and recruiting industry. In 2012, Aplin recognized there was a need for a specialized recruiting firm in Saskatchewan and, by assembling a team of dedicated professionals from

Newfoundland to Vancouver, the agency soon became the largest organization of its kind in Saskatchewan. All Aplin consultants are dedicated to particular divisions and can respond quickly to their clients’ recruiting needs in specific markets. “Our goal is to ensure that you hire only the best and brightest talent for your organization,” says Jeff Aplin, President. It’s no surprise that David Aplin Group is one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies.

PROFESSIONAL RECRUITING David Aplin Group provides niche-market expertise with full-service advantages

including complete confidentiality, a proven track record of satisfied clients, rigorous search processes, and industryspecific knowledge. Their deep specialization extends to 10 business lines including: Aplin Accounting & Finance, Aplin Engineering & Technical, Aplin Human Resources, Aplin Information Technology, Aplin Legal Professionals, Aplin Office Professionals, Aplin Sales & Marketing, Aplin Supply Chain & Operation Management, Aplin Executive Search, and Aplin Consulting. Their Aplin Office Professionals’ team, for example, uses professional candidate profiling and testing plus industryspecific software and search techniques to source highly skilled temporary, contract and permanent administrative professionals.

EXECUTIVE SEARCH AND LEADERSHIP CONSULTING One of David Aplin Group’s fastest growing divisions is Aplin Executive Search. In 2012, Aplin Executive Search merged with Executive Source Partners, then the largest and only search firm headquartered in Saskatchewan.

Aplin Executive Search proactively delivers quality candidates.

Ninety-five per cent of the talent it has placed have been successful business leaders “headhunted” by Aplin’s search professionals as opposed to active jobseekers responding to career ads.

I place a high value on relationships and advice from trusted providers. David Aplin Group consistently delivers both.

— Zlatan Fazlagic, client

I must commend you on your professional approach and thoroughness. It is quite obvious why you and your firm are held in such high regard within our provincial community.

— James Wilke, candidate

With the increasing growth in the province and in today’s competitive market, it makes good business sense to develop a relationship with a staffing partner. David Aplin Group’s core business is recruiting. Partnering with David Aplin Group lets you concentrate on your core business.

For more information and additional locations contact us or visit our website.

David Aplin Group Suite 1000 Avord Tower 606 Spadina Crescent East 306.933.2428 saskatoon@aplin.com www.aplin.com

OPPOSITE PAGE L-R Chantel Gorin, Ed Danneberg, Judith Chelsom, Holly Hetherington, Daniel Brown, Jacqueline Gallagher, Angela Degelman, Charlotte Kimble, Janis Noftle and Christina White FineLifestyles

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ROOFING

Eade’s Creed is to

Focus on the Customer

By Melanie Furlong Photos Heather Fritz

W

hen homeowner Rochelle Laflamme had her roof replaced by 3 ‘N 1 Construction, she was thrilled with the work they did. “They were totally on the ball with delivery,” says Laflamme. “They were clean, hardworking and really efficient workers.

They were done within a day and the roof looked awesome.”

Laflamme was impressed with the work, but also with owner Ken Eade’s unique approach to paying his staff, who are all

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sub-contractors. Eade pays everyone the same amount, including himself. “This way it’s more of a team effort,” he says. “It’s in everybody’s best interest to get the new guy up to speed. Or if one guy is dogging it, the others will tell him to pick it up.

They make decisions as a team.”

Eade has been working in construction in Saskatoon for 18 years. For several years he worked as a sub-contractor himself. “I was very comfortable until five years ago when my great friend and mentor shut his business down,” says Eade. “Before that,

I never had to worry about getting my own work. But that pushed me out of my comfort zone. In the end, it was the best thing that ever happened to me.”

That’s when Eade opened 3 ‘N 1 Construction, which specializes in roofing as well as framing, siding, soffit and fascia. They also do general contracting.

“Framing and roofing are our main focus,” says Eade, “but general contracting provides my clients with more ease. They only have to coordinate with me instead of five or six different people.”

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Ken Eade, owner

Eade says having fantastic relationships with suppliers lets them stay competitive and offer great prices. The contractors are certified to install VELUX Skylights and Sun Tunnels. These quality products have excellent warranties. The shingles have a limited lifetime warranty and VELUX has proven their products in the Alps. Eade says if one of these products was going to fail in our climate, you would know within a year.

“We’re also trying to be innovative and proactive in the sense that there needs to be changes in roof venting for many older homes,” says Eade. Homes built in the 1950s and 1960s are often inadequately vented, which leads to premature shingle failure and ice damming.

Ice damming occurs when snow melts on the roof, then trickles into the eaves and under shingles and freezes again to create ice build-up. When it freezes and expands, it causes leaking. Ventilation in the attic is key to preventing that, says Eade, especially in Saskatchewan, where winters in recent years have been long and harsh with drastic temperature changes.

“It doesn’t matter how well your attic is insulated in an older home,” says Eade, “or how well your vapour barrier is installed, there are always breaches in the vapour barrier. Heat can escape from

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your living quarters to the attic. In fact, heat in your attic is not viable. It’s nothing but detrimental.”

Sometimes homeowners see water coming into their home through a light fixture and think they have a problem with their shingles, says Eade. But often, it’s interior moisture that should never have been there in the first place.

3 ‘N 1 Construction installs solar-powered mechanical vents in roofs to prevent these problems. Any sun hitting the solar panel forces the vent to operate by drawing air out of the attic. “This type of roof vent has huge pros for summer and winter too,” says Eade. “It doesn’t require any additional energy to function and it runs when you need it to run.”

Eade installed one in his own house, a 1,000-sq.-ft. bungalow, two years ago. “The temperature in the house now drops down seven degrees in the summer without any air conditioning,” he says.

The solar-powered roof vents can be mounted anywhere on the roof and the solar panel can even be disconnected from the vent for optimum and discreet sun collection. This affordable technology keeps attic temperatures as close to outside temperatures as possible, so ice damming, leakage and condensation don’t occur and shingles last longer.

Explaining this kind of technology or anything else related to a job is part of Eade’s creed. “A roof is an expensive purchase,” says Eade. “If someone is going to spend thousands of dollars on a new roof, we want to make sure our clients understand 100 per cent what we’re going to do and why. We pride ourselves on education and going the extra mile in our job. If a homeowner wants to talk to anyone in our crew, they always get down from the roof and talk to them.”

Alisa Thompson, Laflamme’s business partner and a repeat client of Eade’s, appreciates his approach. “As women working in the real estate industry, we deal with a lot of men,” says Thompson. “There

are some who can’t wait to lecture us on some aspect of construction. Ken has never talked down to us about anything.

He just has a heart of gold.”

Eade says he and his crew are interested in reaching people on a personal level. “That is what ultimately gets us a referral for the next job,” he says.

It seems to be working. Laflamme says she refers everyone she knows to 3 ‘N 1 Construction. “My sister is renovating her rental property and Ken has quoted her for the whole job,” she says. “This is perfect for her because she won’t have to worry about sub-contracting it herself.”

Thompson sends him referrals too. “No matter how busy he is, he always has the ability to give people 10 minutes of his time,” she says. “He has a very strong character and has a lot to give. I’d definitely recommend him.”

3 ‘N 1 Construction 306.229.8280 kpeade@shaw.ca www.3n1construction.ca |

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SALON

Fun. Fresh. Friendly.

By Tonya Lambert Photos Lisa Landrie

G

oing to the salon should be about so much more than simply getting a new hairstyle or manicure. It should be an all-encompassing experience. “When you visit a salon, you want to have a fun, social time like you see on Queen Latifah’s movie Beauty Shop, as well as getting an incredible new look,” says Christian Linsley, a stylist. “This is exactly the experience you will have when you come into Salon Hush.”

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The staff members at Salon Hush love their jobs and it shows. The atmosphere in the salon is electric, full of lively energy, laughter and friendly conversation. “The salon staff have a great combination of being edgy and talented,” says Alice Wheaton, while Brenley Schaan describes them as “super upbeat, spunky and hilarious.” The openconcept floor plan of the salon facilitates the exchange of ideas and allows everyone to be part of the fun.

This vibrant atmosphere helps clients to release their stress and tension, share their thoughts about different trends — be it in nails or make-up or hair — and explore new ideas. Aesthetics manager Kayla Guan explains, “I get lots of my inspiration from the ideas brought in by my clients.” Adds Christian, “I take the ideas my client has as well as those I have seen on Instagram, different websites and in various fashion magazines to come up with new, edgy ideas. Of course, a lot depends on how far the client is willing to push the boundaries.”

All the staff members at Salon Hush keep up with the latest trends and techniques for both men and women through a combination of research, observation and exploration. “Everyone on staff is into trying new things,” says Kayla. “We like to try out new ideas and styles on each other.” Says Joanne Ho, the owner, “At Salon Hush, we are a true team. Our staff members are all friends and often spend time together outside of work.”

This combination of talent and trust, experience and innovation leads to the creation of many original funky and cutting-edge styles.

Whether you are looking for an edgy hair tattoo or a straight razor shave, luscious eyelash extensions or amazing gel nails, Salon Hush has it all. Complete with a tanning bed and an extensive line of products, including Label M Concept Salon, the award-winning London hair care products for men and women, Salon Hush is the place to go in Saskatoon for a fabulously fun time and pampering from head to toe.

Salon Hush 206A 2nd Ave N, Saskatoon 306.955.7556

OPPOSITE PAGE Models Jeanny Sojor Buan, Joanne Marie Sojor Buan and Mattison Sinnett courtesy of Masala Model & Talent and School of Personal Development.

TOP Joanne Ho MIDDLE Christian Linsley BELOW Kayla Guan

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SEAFOOD

Summer’s Perfect Catch

by Tori Stafford

I

f there is a time to indulge of the bounty of fresh seafood this country and province have to offer, that time is now – just ask Brett Richards. “The summer is the time to take advantage of everything fresh,” says the owner of Charlie’s Seafood Market, Saskatoon’s premier fish and seafood outlet for nearly 30 years, known for offering the widest variety of local fresh fish and imported fresh seafood.

Richards worked at Charlie’s Seafood Market prior to purchasing it when the original owner retired three years ago.

An avid enthusiast of all things seafood, Richards says summer is the prime season

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for fresh fish, both local and imported, due to wide array of fish in seasons throughout the summer months, and also because of there is a more reliable catch for those on the lakes and oceans in the nicer weather.

This means that saltwater favourites, such as halibut and snapper, are brought in fresh on a near-daily basis, as opposed to the week-long shortages experienced throughout the rest of the year when weather conditions won’t allow for frequent optimal fishing. It also means that wild salmon varieties are in their prime – which is not something to take for granted.

“A lot of seasons are short when it comes to fish, and people should take advantage

of it when they are in season,” Richards says, noting that with the season for red spring salmon nearly over, fish-lovers have until the end August to enjoy the fresh, wild sockeye and coho species while in season. “Wild salmon is a great fish to enjoy in the summer. You can do pretty much any style of cooking with it, and it is great for barbequing,” explains Richards, who is known for sharing fabulous recipes for seafood dishes both in-store and on Charlie’s Seafood Market’s website.

A proud supporter of local fisheries, Charlie’s Seafood Market is the place to find the best pickerel and pike Saskatchewan has to offer, but it is also

where foodies and traditional chefs alike can find all of their favourite seafood specialties and delicacies, with an array of caviar available and a plethora of fresh and frozen seafood options in stock.

A trailblazer in bringing sushi to Saskatchewan, Charlie’s Seafood Market is a hot spot for those in Saskatoon who frequently delight in the store’s extensive sushi offerings for lunches on-the-go.

Consistently offering the very best in fresh sushi made fresh daily is a point of pride for Richards, as is maintaining the legacy Charlie’s stands for in making fresh fish and seafood available to those locally.

“I love the business,” Richards says of ensuring the store has a wide variety of fresh sushi ready to go, as well as a great selection of fish and seafood on offer daily.

“It is great to be able to offer something like this here in Saskatoon.”

Charlie’s Seafood Market 210 B, 3929 8th Street East (8th Street & McKercher Drive) Saskatoon 306.955.7127 seafoodbrett@gmail.com www.charliesseafood.ca

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SKIN CARE

Creating Beauty Naturally with Lia Reese Botanical Skin Care

By Melanie Furlong Photos Heather Fritz

L

ocal entrepreneur Jessica Tetu, owner of Just For You Day Spa, knows the beauty and spa industry. Wanting to offer her clients natural alternatives to the top skin care lines that are full of perfumes, mineral oils, harsh chemicals and fillers, Tetu set out to establish an effective, paraben- and cruelty-free product line.

In 2012, after 10 years of working closely with a Canadian laboratory and training in skin therapy, she launched her own line of professional skin care products, naming it after her daughter, Ellia Reese.

“I created Lia Reese Botanical Skin Care to offer a high quality professional line that

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uses essential oils and botanicals instead of fragrances and astringents,” says Tetu, a two-time finalist for Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

The Canadian-made line is designed to offer outstanding results to even the most sensitive or problematic skin. 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 skin care solutions that focus on extenuating treatments typically conducted in a medical esthetic 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 skin care.

Two of Tetu's favourites are the Vitamin A Pumpkin Cleanse and the C Factor Cream. “This active cleanse provides important nutrition for the skin with surface-reducing lipids and essential oils, while leaving you feeling refreshed with the delicious aroma of pumpkin,” says Tetu. “The cleanser is also designed to protect against free radical damage. The C Factor Cream delivers hydration and the anti-oxident benefits of vitamin C to your skin while calming skin irritated by environmental damage.”

Lia Reese Botanicals has been well-received by both the public Tetu set out to serve and the professional spa industry itself. The natural skin care line will soon be available through skin care clinics and spas across Canada, as well as sold online.

This year, with the assistance of three professional estheticians, Tetu founded the Lia Reese Academy of Spa Training to offer high-quality training in a oneon-one setting to spa therapists and career-minded estheticians. The Lia Reese Academy has completed several successful classes and will continue to schedule and expand class offerings each season.

Tetu is currently working with a second Canadian laboratory to develop a professional cosmetic line that she plans to launch in the spring of 2015. “Lia Reese Cosmetics, like Lia Reese Botanicals Skin Care, will be free of all animal testing and 100 percent cruelty- and paraben-free,� she says. Using the highest standards of pigments and ingredients, the cosmetics will also be hypo-allergenic, allergy-tested, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

To find a Lia Reese Botanical Skin Care retailer near you, visit their website.

Jessica Tetu, owner

Lia Reese Botanicals Skin Care info@liareese.com www.liareese.com

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VIDEO GAME SPECIALISTS

Play On!

Local Firm Thrives on Providing Entertainment

By Paul Wilson Photos Megan Antoniuk Photography

H

i-Tech Gametraders has outlasted the big names. In fact, it’s now the only place in town where you can walk into a store and rent a movie with your video game. “That’s what we are known for,” says owner Bob Khan. “We are the only store in the city that specializes in gaming and movies, and we are the only business that still rents them. People still like to rent. They like the experience of looking through the titles and the choice is much larger than the on-demand service.

We have thousands of titles.”

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Son Umair Khan supervises staff training, purchasing and special orders, while Bob oversees the entire operation. The Khan family opened their first store on Grosvenor Avenue, and has since added locations at 8th Street East at McKercher Avenue, in Willowgrove on McOrmand Drive, and now one in the Confederation Mall.

The variety of video games the shop offers is unmatched. “The chain stores sell the big titles that come out,” says Umair. “But we carry those, and all the more obscure titles as well. We also make sure our prices are the best. The consumer market today is

very educated about what the price should be. Used games is where we really edge out the competition.”

Retro games and video game systems remain extremely popular. Bob says older players are coming back to the systems because they carry such fond memories and the games are very relaxing and have a huge fun factor. “It’s really relaxing,” he says. “They want to have fun, not stress.

Retro games are very affordable.”

Despite the ultra-high definition graphics on new systems, Umair admits to being a die-

hard MarioKart player on his N64 system, competing with his group of pals. “Retro gaming has come back hard,” he says.

“Saskatoon is a very good place to do business,” says Bob. “We started small 15 years ago. We’re a locally owned family business, and we have an immense amount of gratitude for the support Saskatoon has shown us.”

He says the store’s growth came through word-of-mouth recommendations because of great service and the superior knowledge of his 27 employees. “Our staff members treat customers like guests. And our employees are hired based on their expertise in games and movies.”

Umair trains new staff members to make it a priority to create happy experiences for customers. “If you have a question, they will answer you honestly and help you find what you like. We don’t push sales — we want our customers to be happy.”

The Khans stress it is the personal commitment to the business and the overriding focus on great customer service that has made it a success. “You need the care to be there,” says Bob. “That’s the strength of a family-run business like this.”

The Khans have seen some of their first young customers return with their own children now, and several have become staff members. Now that’s a family business.

BELOW Ryan Hoppe, sales associate; Umair Khan, owner; Mason Fergusson, sales associate; Bob Khan, owner; Derek Skipper, repair technician; Logan Pilipiak, sales associate; Josh Leite, sales associate; Sydney Nickolet, sales associate; Matt Skorski, sales associate; Jeff Kendall, community manager.

Hi-Tech Gametraders 4–1115 Grosvenor Avenue 306.373.2424 102–3929 8th Street East 306.933.0102 122–1824 McOrmond Drive 306.373.5300 300 Confederation Drive 306.933.4484 /hitechgametraders

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B

WINDOW COVERINGS

C R E AT E

THE LOOK You Want

e it your home or your office, window treatments add more than just décor to a room.

Custom window coverings in your home can add to its resale value. In the office or commercial space, window coverings give occupants not only privacy when needed, but set the “tone” of the room for clients. Any space can be made more welcoming and appealing with the right accents, so would you want to leave such an important feature up to anyone but the professionals?

No, you wouldn’t! Whether you are outfitting a new home, upgrading your current décor, or renovating your commercial office, let Kim Lang and the consultants at Budget Blinds guide you.

It can be a daunting process for many people, and Lang understands that.

The Budget Blinds service starts with a complimentary consultation � without you having to leave your home. “We meet with the customer and find out what they are trying to achieve with their new treatments,” Lang states. “Our showroom is in our van. We bring everything to you when it fits your schedule.”

Recognizing her clientele’s busy lifestyles, Lang ensures her staff remains flexible by serving with evening and weekend consultations. There’s no need to find fabric or paint swatches or to bring your cushions to their store: each consultant has samples available for clients to find the look and function that best suits their tastes and lifestyle. “We do the measuring and installing and take care of everything for our customers,” Lang explains.

As an added bonus to the alreadyestablished convenience of the in-home consultations, Lang now provides for clients customized bedroom packages.

Once the new window coverings for the master suite are selected, consultants can guide clients through a variety of options for upholstered head boards, benches, bedding and coordinating area rugs. “Our team truly assists with the everything, beyond just the window coverings,” Lang states proudly.

There’s been a growing trend in window coverings, one that Lang is pleased to offer. Automated window coverings.

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These sophisticated, futuristic additions to a home or office space offer clients that ever-sought-after convenience: with just a flick of a switch, remote, or programmed timer the automated shades offer easy comfort and privacy and peace of mind for cord safety.

Budget Blinds carries a selection of motorized window coverings, and Lang encourages clients to discuss this option during the free consultations.

you with no questions asked, offering peace of mind for your investment for when life happens!”

With a wide selection of beautiful and functional blinds and draperies to choose from, the hardest part of installing your new window treatments will be deciding what looks best. Blinds, shutters, shades, draperies and valances, Budget Blinds has top-quality products that will enhance the look of any room. It’s time to create the look you want!

LEFT Kim Lang. Photo Courtesy of Heather Fritz

All custom window products come with standard with a limited lifetime warranty. “Our Signature Series also includes a 5 year ‘No Questions Asked’ warranty,” Lang adds. “This means that for five years after you purchase your window treatments, we will replace them for

Budget Blinds of Saskatoon 102–2834 Millar Avenue 306.242.5706 1.888.98.BUDGET kqlang@budgetblinds.com www.budgetblinds.com | |

Given the Thumbs up by

TRUSTED Saskatoon.com

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SPA

An Urban Oasis

By Tonya Lambert Photos Heather Fritz

O

wner Melissa Hampson and her staff at Edgewater Spa in Saskatoon invite you to come in and indulge in a minivacation. Not only will the comforting atmosphere and hushed tones of the spa’s dÊcor have you quickly forgetting the chaos of everyday life, but the premium services and enticing scents will soon have your mind journeying to some magical far-off shore.

Close your eyes, breathe in the aromas of coconut and frangipani flowers or citrus fruit and vanilla and let your senses sail you away

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to the South Pacific as you revel in a refreshing Tahitian Vanilla or Frangipani Body Scrub.

Enjoy an exotic excursion to the East with a hydrating Japanese Cherry Blossom Body Scrub. Or take a trip to sun-kissed Georgia with a Peach Blossom Spa Manicure.

Whatever your dream destination, the indulgent and impressive staff at Edgewater Spa will facilitate your arrival.

It is always more fun to travel with a partner.

Edgewater Spa will transport you and a companion to a Zen-like state with their Escape from Reality Spa Package for couples, featuring advanced facials and massages.

Re-harmonize and reconnect in this serene and soothing sanctuary with a Synergy for Two Package that includes pedicures and massages.

Feeling the desire for a more extended escape? Edgewater Spa has several options for individuals, couples and groups that will take you (and your companions) on a half-day or all-day blissful odyssey that will enrich your outer beauty while enhancing your inner peace. Remember, the longer the treatment, the more enduring the effects.

Hampson and her staff at Edgewater will happily customize a spa package for group

excursions. The 5,000 sq. ft. spa offers a sheltering cocoon where you and your friends or co-workers can relax and unwind.

Edgewater is the perfect place for an office retreat, birthday party, baby shower or girlfriends’ night out.

Wheather you are looking for a quick get-away or a more extended outing, Edgewater Spa has something for everyone. At Edgewater, you can enjoy a manicure, pedicure, shellac nails, facial, waxing, threading, brow and lash tinting, paraffin treatment, massage, body scrub or body wrap. They also offer ear candling, hydrotherapy and detoxifying baths. The newest service on their menu is medical microdermabrasion treatments. For a complete list as well as prices, see their website at www.edgewaterspa.ca.

Would you love to be lying on a Caribbean beach soaking up the sunshine but are unable to get away? Stop by Ahava, Edgewater Spa’s sister location on Broadway, and pamper yourself to some sessions in their tanning bed; you may not have made it to the tropics but you can still look like you did.

Both Edgewater and Ahava carry a wide variety of top-quality beauty products and accessories. They have everything from a rainbow of nail polishes by Essie and OPI to scarves, handbags and jewellery from such popular brands as Bobo, Christina C, City Gypsies, Ella, Hook ups, Pinkstix, Styli She, Two’s Company and Zoe. Gift cards are also available at Ahava and Edgewater and are redeemable at either location.

Escape the chaos of the city today at Saskatoon’s own urban oasis - Edgewater Spa.

Edgewater Spa #101 – 611 University Drive Saskatoon 306.978.4111 edgewaterspa@shaw.ca www.edgewaterspa.ca Ahava 720 Broadway Ave. Saskatoon 306.653.8835 ahava@shaw.ca www.spaahava.com Melissa Hampson, Owner

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GROUP BENEFITS

The Benefits of Regency Advisory Corporation

By Tonya Lambert Photos Lisa Landrie

R

egency Advisory Corporation specializes in consulting with business owners and their management teams to develop the best corporate employee benefits solutions. This is arrived at through active consulting and the use of leading edge, proprietary products. With over 90 years of combined experience, Regency’s team includes benefits consultants, pension and investment consultants, client-focused service advisors, and an actuarial analyst.

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The firm has an incredible wealth of experience and knowledge, as well as an enviable network of trusted industry connections which they are able to offer at their clients’ disposal. Regency does not represent any one insurance company but works with many to provide a multisourced, best-in-class benefits package focused on the needs of the client; in this way, Regency is advancing the next generation of employee benefits.

Opening for business in 2006, Regency grew to become the largest independent benefits consulting firm headquartered in Saskatchewan within four years. Over the years, the firm has helped many successful companies from Ontario to British Columbia build their businesses by creating sustainable, customized benefits packages that attract and retain great employees.

UNIQUE PRODUCTS & A PROACTIVE APPROACH Regency takes a proactive approach to constructing the ideal set of unique benefits for your employees’ needs while also working to keep costs down by actively managing your benefits solutions and by expediting access to diagnosis and treatment, ensuring that employee absences are reduced, resulting in greater productivity and increased profits. Traditional packages provide a fairly standard set of benefits regardless of the broker or insurance company, and the employer’s price is kept down only by limiting the ability of employees to make claims. Through Regency, on the other hand, an actively managed benefits solution enhances claiming options and is as unique as your company and employees.

you receive, but the cost of a package encompasses so much more. The cost takes into account the effectiveness of the benefits package with respect to each employee’s happiness, job satisfaction and productivity. By increasing benefit options and reducing wait times for diagnosis, treatment and recovery, employees are more satisfied and your business quickly returns to full productivity and profitability, therefore improving the cost of the plan. Employees are your most valuable asset and by giving them the tools they need you improve that value.

Employers sometimes mistake the price of a benefits package with the cost. The price of a benefits package is the number that appears at the bottom of the invoice

•

Regency provides exclusive cost savings through products that simply do not exist, outside of Regency’s platform, in today’s marketplace. Regency looks at the benefits over the long term. Examples of these solutions include: Mid Term DisabilityTM - reduces the cost of the plan by up to 20 per cent and aids employees to returning to work safely and quickly;

OPPOSITE PAGE L-R Darwin Forbes, Ian DeCorby BELOW L-R Holly Osborne, Nicole DeCorby, April Zerebeski, Deke Panko, Desirae Munro, Derek Targerson, Ashley Feader

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•

Refunding Reserves – insurers collect reserve funds and Regency can facilitate a cash refund of these reserves (refunds to clients have been as high as $42,000);

•

Employee Education and Awareness – give employees financial incentives to purchase lower cost prescription drugs, which ultimately saves the plan money; and

•

Employee Family Assistance Program – assists employees who are having personal or professional problems which cause them to be less productive and absent from work more often.

PREMIER SERVICE PLATFORM Regency is committed to providing premier advice, service and education of their customized benefits solutions.

Every client at Regency is matched with a dedicated service team to answer the questions of human resource personnel, individual employees and the employer.

Through trusting relationships with clients, Regency provides a forum for client participation in the ongoing evolution of product solutions. Regency uses smart phone apps and online tools to make it easier for employees to view their details as well as to submit claims.

The active management of the benefits solutions includes the presentation of an annual consulting report that details ways in which the employer can make better, more cost-effective decisions.

CEO and Executive Benefits Advisor, Darwin Forbes, confidently states, “At Regency, we know we can walk into any business in Canada and offer unique value to them.” Let Regency help you to grow your business through the creation of a sustainable, customized benefits package that will attract and retain great employees.

TOP Deke Panko MIDDLE Amanda Zosel and Debbie Hilts BOTTOM April Zerebeski, Holly Osborne

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Regency Advisory Corporation #200 – 261 1st Ave. Saskatoon 306.665.3377 www.regencyadvisors.com

SASKATOON and Area

Retail marketplace

DIRECTORY

Kristy Kleen Handles It All

Cars, industrial vehicles, RVs and more. Now offering exterior home/garage cleaning services. Visit our shop — or have our mobile services visit you instead.

Saskatoon’s Best Selection of Fresh Seafood Whether you are looking for fresh seasonal favourites, fresh sushi made in-house daily, group party trays or all your traditional seafood favourites, we ensure a great catch every time.

Kristy Kleen Automotive Detailing #18, 243 Wheeler Street, Saskatoon | 306.229.2432 www.kristykleen.ca | kristykleen@gmail.com |

Charlie’s Seafood Market 210-B 3929 8th Street East, Saskatoon | 306.955.7127 seafoodbrett@gmail.com | www.charliesseafood.ca

Sleep Expert

You . . . Only Better

Wiseguys Mattresses Mattresses 6-805 Circle Drive East 6-405 East, Saskatoon | 306.652.1212 306.652.1212 | wiseguysmattresses

Change Lingerie Lawson Heights Mall - 134 Pinehouse Drive 306.664.4164 Drive, |Saskatoon www.change.com/en-ca 306.664.4164 | www.change.com/en-ca

Capturing the Moment

Fun for the Whole Family

Megan Antoniuk Photography 306.880.7088 www.meganantoniuk.com

The Fun Factory 306.955.3778 | 1633C Quebec Avenue North, Saskatoon www.thefunfactory.ca |

A good night’s sleep is just a mattress away. Ask Mark how you can sleep easy with a wise choice. Wiseguys Mattresses is a proud member proud member of TrustedSaskatoon.com. of TrustedSaskatoon.com.

Preserve the memories you hold dear to your heart. Specializing in baby, children and family photos.

Beautifully designed lingerie, sleepwear and swimwear in a wide range of styles and sizes to fit your unique curves. Embrace change and discover you, only better.

Whether you are looking to celebrate a child’s special day or a place to have an afternoon of family entertainment, The Fun Factory has it all.

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SASKATOON and Area

Retail marketplace

DIRECTORY

You Deserve to Shine

Exquisite earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches and rings, including the exclusive E! Live from the Red Carpet collection, a bridal collection and men’s line. Unconditional lifetime guarantee.

Lashes to Love

Feel amazing, look amazing. High-quality, natural looking lashes to enhance your personal style. Experienced lash technicians provide a comfortable, relaxing environment for your customized service.

Park Lane Jewelry with Micheal-Anne Angus 306.933.4330 | mike@parklanecanada.com www.parklanecanada.com |

Primp Lash Lounge #57-158 2nd Avenue North, Saskatoon | 306.850.1224 primplashlounge@gmail.com | primplashlounge.com |

The Dress. The Invitations. The Décor.

Marquis de Sound

Champagne Bridal and Champagne Events 107-3521 8th Street East, Saskatoon | 306.477.2022 champagnebridal.ca |

Marquis Audio Video & Appliances 85-15 Street West, Prince Albert | 306.764.6663 marquisaudiovideo.com |

For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Sweet Treats & Tasty Eats

Fresh Air Experience 938 Central Ave, Prince Albert | 306.922.1500 | tf: 1.800.653.5200 532 Victoria Av, Regina | 306.522.6665 | freshairexperience.com

Shananigan’s Coffee and Dessert Bar 2144 6th Avenue West, Prince Albert 306.764.2647

From designer wedding gowns to dresses for any occasion, we have what you need to make your day perfect. Find your dream wedding décor here. We can’t wait to create your vision.

Extensive range of bikes, camping gear, clothing/footwear, canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, skateboards, wakeboards, snowshoes, cross country and alpine ski gear, snowboards & more.

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|

Customize your home with a theatre, security systems and automated controls. See the expert staff at Prince Albert’s Marquis Audio Video & Appliances for the latest technology.

Prince Albert’s bistro-style café, serving homemade cheesecakes, cakes, cookies, squares and pies. Famous for lunches and dinners, too. Fresh, delicious meals for the family.

Authentic Iranian and East Indian Food Traditional and original recipes with mouth-watering aromas, tongue-tingling flavours and eye-catching presentation. Special event catering available. Check out the online menu.

Feel Like a New Person

A wide variety of treatments & services that will relax, refresh and rejuvenate: manicures, pedicures, esthetics, raindrop therapy, hot and cold stone massages, body sugaring, facials, reflexology massages and more.

Persia Bistro #10 - 2995 2nd Avenue West, Prince Albert (South Hill Mall) 306.922.3367 | www.persiabistro.com |

The Healing Garden Spa 1114 Central Avenue, Prince Albert 306.922.8397 | www.thehealinggardenspa.com

Downtown Transformation

Your Entertainment Destination

Prince Albert Downtown Improvement District Association 1105 Central Avenue, Prince Albert | 306.763.1802 padidadmin@sasktel.net | princealbertdowntown.ca

E.A. Rawlinson Centre for the Arts 142 - 12th Street West, Prince Albert | 306.764.9569 www.earawlinsoncentre.ca

Saskatoon’s Catering Specialists

Boutique for Fashion-Forward Woman

Smiley’s Buffet 702 Circle Drive East | 306.955.1926 www.smileysbuffet.com

Sta´sia Boutique 4 - 1418 Central Avenue, Saskatoon 306.931.2250 | www.stasiaboutique.ca

PADIDA is creating a vibrant downtown for Prince Albert. By cultivating relationships with business owners, PADIDA is setting great possibilities for the future of the downtown community.

For your next corporate event or board meeting, or for lunch delivered to the office, let Smiley’s cater your favourite foods to you. Online ordering available.

Prince Albert’s entertainment facility, the E.A. Rawlinson Centre for the Arts, hosts top-notch talent. Check out the website for upcoming shows and to purchase tickets.

Consign your fashion gems that are too beautiful to be left at the back of your closet and shop unique, high-end merchandise at amazing prices.

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INTERIOR DECORATING STAGING KITCHEN DESIGN AND COLOUR CONSULTATION

Chantelle Butterfield, owner

Style, imagination and experience for home owners and builders in and around Saskatoon. Call Chantelle today for your in-home consultation and discover how every space can be beautiful . . . and Funktional.

306.227.3008 | chantelle@funktionalspace.com | www.funktionalspace.com |

NEW TO

Bella Sante

Thermage CPT (Comfort Pulse Technology) BELLA SANTE IS SASKATCHEWAN’S PREMIERE CLINIC FOR BOTOX AND SKIN REJUVENATION Bella Sante is excited to offer the new Thermage Comfort Pulse Technology. This revolutionary new use of a well established and effective technology tightens loose skin without any downtime. We are also able to offer this treatment for the lax skin around the eyes and Bella Sante is presently the only clinic in Saskatchewan to offer this treatments.

Special for

July 1 st to Sept. 30th, 2014

BEFORE

AFTER

GIFT ($350.00 value) with Purchase of One Thermage Treatment for Full Face and Eyes

Thermage treatments have been a popular and effective way for over 10 years to tighten loose skin and restore a youthful appearance. Bella Sante MD Cosmetic and Laser Clinic can now offer that same result with even more comfort due to the new CPT (comfort pulse technology).

Thermage treatments are based on unipolar Radio Frequency (RF) which causes the contraction and stimulation of the collagen resulting in a tighter, smoother appearance of the skin. The most common areas to be treated are the face, eyes and neck.

www.bellasanteclinic.com

306.652.0553