Fine Lifestyles Winnipeg Summer 2014

FineLifestyles Lifestyles SUMMER 2014 | VOLUME 1 ISSUE 2

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d e r i p s n I Get 35% OFF ALL INSPIRED Inspire Classic Beauty with Modern Drapes and Curtains from Budget Blinds No window treatments have been more popular in recent years than curtains and drapes. They are being used as standalone treatments, in conjunction with window blinds and shutters, and some even see use in unexpected places! Many homeowners and designers are using the many benefits that a set of draperies and curtains can provide, not only for aesthetic value, but in terms of light filtration, insulation, shading, and function. If you would like to create a striking ambience in your home with an easy to operate window covering, there are few better options than a gorgeous set of curtains and drapes. They help set an illustrious tone, turning an otherwise uninspired room into a sweeping masterpiece of style.

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first word

FineLifestyles www.finelifestyles.ca Volume 1, Issue 2

WINNIPEG

Editor Brandi Parnell Art Direction Amber Moon, Senior Lisa Redden, Associate

With Fine Lifestyles editor Brandi Parnell

O

ne of the best things about being a Manitoban is being able to enjoy our beautiful summers. As this issue went to press, the trees were green, the patios were open and the Goldeyes were swinging bats. Winnipeg is a vibrant city with many great summer events, some of which you can find in our entertainment calendar.

In this issue, we have had the pleasure of working with some incredible local businesses. Our cover story is one of commerce but moreover heart — with Patrick Maxwell and his team at White Lotus Pet Spa. Float with us up the Red River into the town of Selkirk and its surrounding regions; have dinner beneath the stars, hit the highways with the roof down or just sit and people watch from a trendy Corydon hotspot.

Whatever you do to rejoice the season, do it with flare. Renovate a room in your home, light up the grill or lean up against an old oak tree and drink a glass of Chardonnay.

Design Natasha Burkholder Staff Writers Courtney Tait, Henny Buffinga, Mel Furlong, Rebecca Henderson, Tobie Hainstock, Tonya Lambert, Tori Stafford, Trina Annand Cover Photography Samanta Katz Photography Shawn Fillion, BTL Wedding, Leif Norman, Carols & Alyse, TDL Photography, Beautiful Beginnings Photography, Rejean Brandt, Pauline Boldt, Shelley Roy, Anne Boyko, Jon Stebbe, Clark Moeller, Adam Coish, Photography by Carmen, Lana Young – Aspire Photography, BMW, The Winnipeg Goldeyes, Folklorama, Town of Selkirk, Revera – The Wellington Contributing Writers Nicolle Hodges, Ryan Bowman, Susana Segure, Sean Dolenuck, Rebecca Schneidereit, Swish Productions Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca Printed by Transcontinental Printers in Winnipeg & Montreal

Cheers to sunny days!

Brandi Parnell

Rhonda Tannahill Associate Publisher – Winnipeg 204.430.2266 rhondat@finelifestyles.ca

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CONTENTS STYLE ..................................................... 8 HEALTH AND WELLNESS.................22 DINING ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT................................42

132

SPORTS, RECREATION AND TRAVEL ......................................54 HOUSE AND HOME............................76 BUSINESS.............................................118

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WHEELS.............................................. 132

Blueprint: Summer Style ............................. 8 COVER STORY: White Lotus Pet Spa……...................………..38 Constellations and Cocktails …...........… 66 Red River North Special Feature...........138 Corydon Neighbourhood Feature…....156

Memory Bears

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www.mommabearkeepsakes.com FineLifestyles

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THE

BLUEPRINT Produced ProducedBy BySwish SwishProductions Productions Photos Photosby byCarlos Carlos&&Alyse Alyse

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P

ablo Picasso’s “Blue Period” defines his works between 1901 and 1904 when he painted essentially monochromatic paintings in shades of blue. Fast forward just over a century, and we’re currently experiencing our own “Blue Period” in men’s fashion.

Blue has undoubtedly become the “it” colour of summer.

From sky to midnight, imperial to cerulean, design houses such as Calvin Klein Collection, Richard Nicholl, and Dior Homme, to name a few, all enjoyed a true blue love affair with the full gradient of tones. T-shirts, trousers, jackets, shorts, shoes — if you’re not used to rocking it as much, this season is the perfect entry point to dabble in all things blue. Start by mixing different shades of blue until you find a complementing combination — you will look instantly modern and self-assured.

In a season full of blue, additional notable trends emerged from the menswear shows.

Rather than classic black, many designers dabbled in shades of blue for their version of the summer suit. Lighter in weight and colour, this season’s suit opens more doors to dressing up or down. Keep it cool and opt for a cambric or chambray-like suit.

For those inevitable rainy days or even chilly summer nights, a rain slicker or utility jacket is key. New fabrications and trimmer fits this time around make them slick in every sense of the word. Grab one in bold cobalt blue and throw it on over the most formal or casual of looks.

Tropical prints were everywhere, suggesting we should all take a moment to sit back, relax and enjoy the sun while it’s here. Easily worn with casual chinos and slip-ons, tropical prints are a great option for men looking to infuse a bit of colour and fun into their wardrobe this summer.

When it comes to footwear, brogues and loafers have always been a classic staple for men. This season, athletic trainers are finding their place amongst the fashionable set.

OPPOSITE Suit, T-shirt (Matinique) and belt (United) from Danali Clothing, Low-top trainers (New Balance) from Little Burgundy Polo Park. ABOVE LEFT Polo shirt (John Varvatos) and straight trousers (Moods of Norway) from Moulé; Classic slip-ons (Vans) from Little Burgundy Polo Park. SECOND PVC utility jacket (Norse Projects), Short sleeve button down shirt (Gitman Vintage) and slim fit jeans (Baldwin Denim) from Normandy Shop; Suede sneakers (Nike) from Little Burgundy Polo Park. THIRD PVC utility jacket (Norse Projects), Short sleeve button down shirt (Gitman Vintage) and slim fit jeans (Baldwin Denim) from Normandy Shop; Suede sneakers (Nike) from Little Burgundy Polo Park. Hawaiian print short sleeve button down shirt (7Diamonds) and slim khaki chinos (life/after/denim) from StyleBar Boutique; Classic slip-ons (Vans) from Little Burgundy Polo Park; Sunglasses (stylist’s own). FOURTH Shirt (Moods of Norway), tie (Dibi), patterned shorts (Penguin) and belt (Brave) from Moulé; Canvas boat shoes (Sperry Topsider) from Little Burgundy Polo Park.

Hair: John Graham of Aevi Salon Beauty: Jocelyn Caballero Model: Brodie Scott of Swish Model Management

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VICTOR’S Come for the Cut and Colour, Stay for the Conversation

By Tonya Lambert Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

W

alking through the doors at Victor’s, you are enveloped in the soothing, peaceful energy that emanates throughout the salon. Victor’s friendly greeting and bright smile welcomes you to your home-away-from-home.

Well-known Winnipeg stylist Victor Tomassetti chose to move his salon from

its traditional store-front location into his house in River Heights several years ago because he wanted his clients to experience the warmth and comfort of home while getting their hair done. He understands that going to the salon is an experience, and he works hard to ensure that it is an especially enjoyable and relaxing one for his clients. “I gauge the mood and needs of my clients from the moment they walk through the door,” says Victor. “If a client is feeling stressed and just wants some quiet time to de-compress, I make sure they have it. If clients want to socialize, I facilitate discussions on food, culture and fashion. Many of my clients and I share recipes.” Victor’s clients look forward to visiting his salon as much for the conversation as for the cut and colour.

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A Fort Garry boy, Victor has over 20 years of experience providing the men, women and children of Winnipeg with creative cuts and styles. Many of Victor’s clients have been with the stylist for years, trusting him to keep them looking their best, whether it is their everyday look or a singular style for a special event. Victor has helped numerous area brides find the perfect hairdo in which to say “I do”.

trends and colouring techniques; this allows him to take a client’s usual look and update it to fit with the latest fashion.

Victor draws his inspiration from his clients, his many years of experience and his trips to Europe and Montreal. He regularly takes classes to learn the latest

Many clients come in for a quick blow out or up-do before heading for an evening out. And, of course, one cannot forget to mention the absolutely fabulous scalp

Victor shies away from using a lot of the chemicals many stylists apply. “I like to keep a person’s hair as natural as possible,” he says. “I don’t chemically straighten hair.

I only use chemicals when I am colouring and highlighting hair. Otherwise, I stay away from them.”

massages that Victor gives; you can literally feel the tension in your body melting away.

“I want my clients to leave the salon feeling better than when they arrived,” explains Victor. “I believe strongly in treating people with respect and kindness and I try to really listen to what people have to say. I am a giver, not a taker. I want my clients to be able to relax, to have fun, and to leave looking and feeling fantastic.”

Victor’s 204.453.4247

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C E L EBR AT I N G S UMMER I N

STYLISH

Hot summer colors include corals, muted yellows, bright whites, turquoise.

COLOURS

S

By Brandi Parnell Photos BTL Wedding

ummer has arrived at Style Bar in a variety of fun colours. What began on the corner of River and Osborne is spreading throughout Winnipeg. It is Los Angeles meets the Prairies. It is chic, yet reasonably priced.

It is good quality clothing with stylish accessories.

It’s Style Bar Boutique and the woman behind the brand is Regan Greenwood.

Some people think summer is all about flip-

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flops and beach wear. And it can be. But it is also about selecting lightweight clothing that starts at the office and ends on a patio. It is about pairing up basic denim with a great button down shirt.

Summer is being able to wear fun sundresses and fabulous sandals.

Greenwood is k nown for helping hip professionals transition from the office to an evening event, which means layering an outfit

The hottest hat this summer is the Panama Bucket Hat

with a blazer or cardigan is essential. It means having a clutch purse on hand, and wearing the right accessories.

“I bring a large bag to work each day, but inside it is a clutch which is easy to grab and go when the opportunity arises.”

Greenwood’s spring collection of clutches come in almost any colour of quilted textured patterns — a fashion piece that can make an outfit. Best of all, a clutch is perfect for carrying a card case, lipstick, mascara, hand lotion, a phone and keys — everything your need for a perfect summer night out.

Life is short. Celebrate often. Look your best.

Summer also happens to be a season filled with wedded joy, from socials to showers to wedding days. Greenwood has met numerous many people who shop for many different occasions. From deck parties to formal events, from gettogethers with friends to the office, she has you covered.

Chunky necklaces are fun accents and so are pastelcoloured pants for women. Rose- patterned scarves and big bags are the season’s must-have accessories.

Coco Chanel said, “The best colour in the whole world, is the one that looks good, on you.”

For men, Greenwood has patterned shorts, a brand new raw denim line called BLKWD and a large selection of fashionable men’s socks.

“A lot of men are restricted when it comes to their business attire. Socks are one place where they can rebel a little. Men can wear a classic, tailored suit to the office with vibrant socks,” Greenwood adds. Happy Socks are available in polka dots, florals, stripes, neons and pastels — all perfect for embracing the season.

Also hot for men this summer are button-down short-sleeved shirts from 7 Diamonds that can be paired perfectly with a new pair of affordable and well-made BLKWD denim jeans.

So, throw on a maxi dress, a panama hat and grab your clutch.

Wear socks that reflect your personality, and hook up with friends. Whatever you do this summer, do it well dressed.

For more information or store hours, call, Facebook or Twitter the Style Bar Boutique.

Style Bar Boutique 470 River Ave, Winnipeg, MB Phone: 204.505.1351 stylebarwpg @stylebarwpg

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Spring Must Haves with Style Expert Regan Greenwood

THE KIMONO - One of my favorite spring 2014 trends is the kimono.

Worn around around the house, atop a simple tee and jean shorts, or as a bathing suit cover up. From floral printed styles, to long flowing styles, this trend if the perfect way to add a little something extra to your wardrobe.

Regan Greenwood Style Expert Style Bar Boutique 470 River Ave, Winnipeg, MB Phone: 204.505.1351 stylebarwpg @stylebarwpg

THE WHITE PUMP - Black doesn’t always work with spring’s pale, pretty colors; and the nude heel has been done over and over again. Try a pair of white heels this season for a fun updated look.

THE CROP TOP - Crop tops are not going anywhere. They are not for everyone, but with a high waisted skirt they make a great summer outfit.

BLOCK HEELS - The 90’s are back with strappy block heels. They are fancy enough to wear with skirts and dresses yet almost as comfortable as your beloved flip-flops. Styles with metallic details will glam up your nighttime look.

CASUAL CROPPED PANTS - Dressed up or down, pair with a tailored blouse for work, or with an embellished tank for weekend brunch with the girls. From loose, to tailored, skinny or structured there’s s a style for everyone!

MODERN FLORALS – Style Bar is fully floral at the moment and I love it! But these are definitely not your grandma’s prints. All the rage and super vertsatile, a spring must have.

PEEK-A-BOO DETAILS - We are seeing Cut Outs and sheer panels in all forms. Peek-a-boo details from pretty lace to daring cut-away panels, hints of skin are in. They key to this trend is to expose strategically. Make sure you’re highlighting your best feature with this detail.

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Sexy, Sultry, Seductive or Sweet: Adam & Eve Helps Make Fantasies Come True

O

ne thing many humans have in common is the tendency to shy away from discussing sexuality. It should, however, be something that is celebrated.

Adam & Eve Winnipeg is a place for women, men and couples to embrace their sexuality and the natural attraction between humans, from romantic to erotic. An upscale store with a warm and inviting staff help clients of every age, size and comfort level get in tune with their own sexuality.

By Tori Stafford Photos BTL Wedding

From lingerie and apparel to pleasure objects and accessories, Adam & Eve is not a typical ‘sex shop,’ nor do they subscribe to the stereotypes associated with traditional ‘XXX’ stores, explains Roe Palao, one of three owners of Adam & Eve Winnipeg.

“Adam & Eve has been around for over 40 years,” she says, noting the roots of the company are in sexual health promotion and safe sexual practices. “It’s a safe, comfortable, inviting atmosphere, and we take pride in creating and maintaining that.”

Indeed, the history of the company speaks to the fact that all humans are sexual beings, and that there is no shame in discussing that. Founded in 1970 by Phil Harvey and Dr. Timothy Black, Adam & Eve began as the first mail order contraceptive business in North America.

A trailblazer in promoting birth control outside of a clinical setting, the company evolved into a leading provider of adultoriented items and accessories. To this day, Harvey is a leader in international family

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L-R Jo, Roe and Trasey

planning and AIDS prevention in thirdworld countries through his two other companies, and continues to promote the acceptance and celebration of human sexuality through Adam & Eve. Adam & Eve Winnipeg is the company’s first retail store not only in Manitoba, but also in all of Canada. With a highlytrained and knowledgeable staff, Adam & Eve Winnipeg is proud to bring the company’s legacy north of the border and be Winnipeg’s No. 1 source for all things romantic and erotic.

Adam & Eve boasts an outstanding array of lingerie and apparel for both women and men in a wide variety of selection and sizes. From lace to leather, from sweet to sassy, Palao expresses that she and her staff put a strong emphasis on ensuring anyone and everyone can find something to fit their body type and their romantic fantasies. With a huge selection in stock and the ability to cater to special orders, Adam & Eve Winnipeg can offer lingerie and apparel from size one to 6x in a

plethora of styles to suit individual tastes.

“We carry a vast selection because you don’t have to be any particular size to be sexual or sexy,” Palao expresses. “We try to be able capture everyone in their own light – with their own unique type of sexual appeal.”

One of the great things about the store is the way it marries romance, sexuality and erotica, Palao says. A big piece of that is sexual health knowledge and education, she explains, something the staff at Adam & Eve take very seriously.

“All of our staff are well-trained and they can answer your questions,” she says, explaining that the staff is happy to lend their expertise to clients. “Come in and educate yourself in a comfortable environment.”

Adam & Eve hosts educational seminars on topics like ‘Achieving Orgasm With Your Partner,’ or ‘The Empowerment of Women and Their Sexuality.’ While these topics may seem taboo to many, they are perfectly natural – and healthy – both in

theory and exploration, Palao says. “We are all having sex, but no one wants to talk about having sex,” she says with a laugh.

“One of the things we’ve always discussed here is that everyone’s biggest sexual organ is between their ears – their brain. And we are offering a place to come and explore that.”

With that in mind, Palao, and her coowners, husband Rafael Palao, and brother, Mike Colavito, welcome all of their past clients, and all of those who have yet to come into the store to join them on Sunday, July 27th, when Adam & Eve Winnipeg will host a celebration of their two years serving the community. The event will include prizes and all day entertainment.

“Please come and join us for an enjoyable time, celebrating our two years here, and your own sexual health and identity,” she says.

Adam & Eve 1574 St. James Street Winnipeg 204.779.6789 www.adamevewinnipeg.com

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Keepsakes, Romance &

Quality Craftsmanship

By Henny Buffinga Photos Leif Norman

H

igh school sweethearts, Tom and Peggy Sutton, are in the business of romance with their custom goldsmith jewellery shop, Sutton Smithworks.

Creating and repairing everything from engagement rings to keepsake jewellery, Sutton Smithworks is the place to go to for personal service and quality craftsmanship.

Sutton Smithworks has changed since Peggy joined the business. They expanded their showroom and invested in equipment like CAD/CAM software that is used to design and manufacture products, and a laser welder to make everything their customers’ desire. “If the customer is able to provide us with an image or idea of what they want, we can create it,” says Peggy.

After high school, Tom and Peggy drifted apart, living separate lives. Five years ago, Tom called Peggy to meet up “not for a date.” Amid a bouquet of roses, they talked for nine hours and realized there was still something there. Two months later they were engaged, and they got married later that year.

Sutton Smithworks specializes in custom jewellery and repairs, affording their customers a greater degree of personalization. “Customers can be more involved with the making of the piece,” Peggy explains. “They guide us with what they want. We can send a rendering of what the piece will look like and they can

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make adjustments before it’s finalized.”

They also repair jewellery or restring pearls, even if the items weren’t originally bought at their store.

A featured item they create is the keepsake pendant. “We do a keepsake that is unlike anything you’ve seen anywhere,” Peggy says. “We can take a photograph and create a three dimensional pendant, using either a portrait or a fingerprint.” Tom’s son, James, is particularly skilled with the CAD/CAM software, and is creating a whole new level of detail in the keepsake pendants. “The company that sells the CAD/CAM can’t believe what we’re doing with it,” says Peggy. “The machine wasn’t designed to do some of these things, but he has found ways to do things differently.”

Their beautiful showroom demonstrates the precision and attention to detail in all their jewellery. “We’re not pretentious,” says Peggy. “We have proper lighting in our showroom so people can see what we have to offer.”

Sutton Smithworks features engagement rings and wedding rings that they will size immediately. “No girl wants to wait to have her ring sized,” explains Peggy. They can also create a wedding band to match an existing engagement ring.

Tom’s goldsmith skills are well known and he resets some of the largest stones in Winnipeg. “The largest stone he set was a 10-carat Marquise, which is very big,” says Peggy. “Jewellery repairs are very much about trust. Because we do the work on site, you don’t risk losing it in transit.”

The romantic nature of their service often results in developing personal relationships with their customers, and Peggy’s positive attitude is a huge part of the friendly atmosphere. “We get customers coming in giving us coffee!” she says. “And customers often give us hugs, they’re so ecstatic at how wonderful the piece looks.”

Visit Sutton Smithworks and find out what these satisfied customers are so excited about.

Sutton Smithworks Ltd. 316-283 Portage Ave, Winnipeg 204.942.5236 suttons@mymts.net www.winnipegcustomjeweler.com

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Mind Blowing Style

By Tobie Hainstock Photos Shawn Fillion and Jon Stebbe

Each one of us has our own distinct style; it’s an expression of who we are. Trust your look to professionals who appreciate your individuality and are committed to helping you look your best.

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private parties. “Start your night with us and we’ll provide the drinks, snacks and anything else you need,” Kristen says.

There are a number of packages available for the Blow Dry Bar, which include a three pack or a six pack option. “Guests can purchase monthly memberships that never expire,” she comments. Kristen goes on to clarify there are two membership choices available: Regular Membership: This includes two blowouts and one treatment per month.

Plus members receive a free blowout on the week of their birthday.

Socialite Membership: This package offers members four blowouts and two treatments per month, as well as the birthday bonus blowout.

The Blow Dry Bar launched May 9th with a special fundraising event. “Each guest brought a friend,” explains Kristen, “while one person was getting their hair done, the other got their makeup.” It was a great time with plenty of refreshments and treats. The event raised more than $1,000 for Osborne House, a shelter for women and children who are escaping domestic abuse.

E x pa n D E D Hours anD rEfrEsHmEnts As the needs of their guests are ever changing, Bob and Page continue to accommodate. “We expanded our salon hours and we’re now open at 7:00AM on Wednesdays,” states Kristen. These new hours offer more flexibility for customers. “Now our clients can come in and have their hair done before they go to work.”

B

ob and Page is a small trendy boutique salon that offers a wide selection of services by stylists who are top professionals in their field. “I named it (the salon) after the haircuts; the bob and the pageboy,” elucidates owner Kristen Kologie.

As a REDKEN® concept salon, Kristen and her team at Bob and Page have trained with REDKEN® across North America.

After serving clients for almost 20 years, Kristen is a high level expert in her field.

As such, you know you can count on Bob and Page to provide the latest top quality REDKEN® products and services, such as

cuts, colours, texturing, updo’s, blowouts, treatments and more.

Blow Dry Bar The most exciting development to hit Bob and Page recently is the Blow Dry Bar. “This is an exclusive area for guests to come in and get their hair washed and styled for the flat fee of $25,” notes Kristen. She invites clients to come alone or bring along some friends.

Kristen adds that for $15 Bob and Page will also do dry-washes. Come in with dry hair, and they will freshen up your current style.

The Blow Dry Bar is ideal for birthday parties, showers, bachelorettes and other

Kristen is pleased to announce the salon has recently been licensed, and serves guests champagne, prosecco, wine and scotch at their request.

CustomEr sErviCE ExCEllEnCE The team at Bob and Page is constantly looking at new ways to better serve customers. By spending time consulting with clients, the staff is able to identify the best approach and personalized services It’s your style, trust it to professionals who will treat your right at Bob and Page.

Bob and Page 580 Academy Road, Winnipeg 204.505.0111 www.bobandpage.com | |

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TA KE C A RE , E AT W E L L ,

Live Long

By Brandi Parnell

P

hysical conditioning is no accident. You don’t wake up in good shape; in fact, being physically fit requires a series of conscious choices rooted in top-of-mind health. Summer is the perfect season to live a life that enhances optimal wellness.

Moderate temperatures make outdoor fitness more accessible. So, too, does the bounty of fresh produce available at roadside stands. Living a well-balanced Winnipeg life means that you can take advantage of local farmers selling their “garden gold” just a stone’s throw from your home or cottage. It means that blueberries grow wild and fresh herbs are a neighbourhood staple. On top of

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that, bike paths are carved throughout city parks, and fresh air seeps its way into your life through an open window.

According to experts, living well can be divided into three main categories. state OF MinD Breathe, stretch, and meditate. If laughter were the best medicine, then this summer you should laugh often.

Play with a child, throw a Frisbee at the park, entertain friends, and do so outside in the company of fireflies and sunsets.

Winnipeg is a medley of musical talent combined with acres of foliage and great culinary jewels. The Winnipeg Jazz and Fringe Festivals, respectively, are soulful

entertainment during the month of July.

There are plenty of patios and bodies of water in and around our city. Having a balanced state of mind means embracing what makes you feel at ease, what causes you to pause and what makes you smile.

Sit by the duck pond at Assiniboine Park, walk the river trail at The Forks, eat homemade gelato on Corydon. Whatever you do, do what brings you peace. healthy FOODs Spiritual exercise is necessary, and so is eating for wellness.

With temperatures heating up, hydration is critical. Drink plenty of water infused with sliced fruits and squeezed citrus. Some key ingredients that make summer exceptionally

Physical Fitness Lastly, get moving. Row, kayak, walk, climb, swim, run or bike. Our city is a mecca of parks, golf courses and activities for enhancing physical fitness. Enroll in a boot camp, hold hands as you stroll through Assiniboine Park, climb a tree, paddle down the Red River. Whatever your choice to elevate your heart rate, take advantage of warm Winnipeg weather.

tasty are fruits and vegetables grown and harvested in Canadian summers. Indulge in peaches and cherries from beautiful British Columbia, kale and beets grown in Manitoba gardens, and Saskatoon berries that grow wild on the prairies.

There is nothing quite like the sugary juice from a freshly-picked strawberry or the sweet crunch of carrot washed with a garden hose. Succulent, juicy tomatoes

strung up on stakes and the ever-popular mint grown abundantly all summer long.

Take advantage of how easy it is to eat well with nutritious, vibrant foods at your fingertips. Quinoa makes iceberg lettuce seem passé in terms of wellness and is no longer a foreign ingredient. In fact, it is a staple now found in many kitchens. Here is a great summer salad recipe in case you aren’t familiar with this super food:

If you seek tranquility, try Beaudry Park or Bunn’s Creek Trail. If you’d rather strap on roller blades for a rapid ride, seek out South Winnipeg Trail or Sturgeon Creek Greenway Trail. There are no excuses for inactivity with local nurseries to help you get growing, plenty of organized walks and runs to keep you moving, and many stimulating, creative events to stretch your mind. Take a picnic, take a break, and take a camera. All trails that lead to fitness and healthy choices lead to longevity. Wear a hat, take care and live well.

Quinoa, Green apple & pine nut Salad with honey lemon mint VinaiGrette Ingredients

Instructions

1 cup of cooked quinoa 1 Granny Smith apple, diced 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/3 cup pine nuts 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1.

Honey Lemon Mint Vinaigrette 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint Dash of lemon juice Salt, black pepper to taste

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together dressing and set aside.

Meanwhile, combine cooked and cooled quinoa with apples, dried cranberries, feta and pine nuts.

2. About 30 minutes before serving, combine dressing with quinoa salad and toss. Serve cold or at room temperature. Serve as a meal or a side with grain-fed meats and grilled vegetables.

3. Ripe produce is more accessible during the summer, and more nutrient-rich served fresh from the garden.

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ExpErt Advice Dr. Tim Dumore Adult Orthodontics

children, and with the options available, adult patients are turning to less-detectable orthodontic appliances and clear braces to address their issues.

Dr. Tim Dumore Dr. Dumore & Team 2541 Portage Avenue 204.832.3910 drtimbo@drdumore.com www.drdumore.com

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dults are becoming an increasing proportion of patients in orthodontic practices theses days. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) found the number of adult patients seeking orthodontic treatments increased by 14 per cent from 2012 to 2013, with more than one million patients aged 18 or older in the United States alone. As more and more adults look to orthodontic procedures to help them obtain a beautiful smile they’re proud to show off, the number of questions surrounding adult orthodontics has increased, too.

Am I too old for braces?

Many adults often think this is the case, but orthodontic treatments can be done at any age. A variety of orthodontic problems can be treated as easily for adults as for

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I’ve had a lot of dental treatments and procedures in the past. Does this mean I’m no longer a candidate for orthodontic treatments?

Adults do tend to have more past fillings or crowns, as well as issues like missing teeth or gum problems, and these issues can make treatment more complicated.

The training an orthodontist receives in his or her three year residency, however, prepares him/her for these challenges, and such treatments are routine for the orthodontist. Orthodontists will consult a patient’s dentist and/or periodontist regarding past and present issues, and develop a plan to correct any problems.

There is other work I’d like to have done on my teeth besides straightening them.

Should I have that work done before or after my orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can allow restorative work to be more conservative, so if your teeth are crooked or your bite is off, straightening them before crowns/ bridges/implants can allow your dentist to do less tooth preparation and produce

more ideal restorations. In the case of missing teeth, orthodontic treatment can create or hold space to replace missing teeth. Your orthodontist can work with a dentist, or dental specialist who can provide bridges or implants, so that you receive the best results possible.

How will orthodontic treatment affect my day-to-day life?

Almost anything you do regularly, you can do during orthodontic treatment. Most adults adjust quickly to braces or aligners, and both are available in clear formats which can be used to straighten the teeth without others noticing. New innovations in techniques and materials have made having braces more comfortable and less detectable than ever before. Adults who seek orthodontic treatment have often lived with concerns about their bite or smile for years, and are often quite motivated to achieve an optimal result. Studies show orthodontic treatments for adults lead to greater confidence and satisfaction with one’s teeth. A study conducted by the AAO in 2013 found that adult orthodontic patients reported that their treatments directly contributed to significant improvements in both their professional and personal lives, with 92 per cent of respondents saying they would recommend such treatments to other adults.

Brighten up the room! Your smile is your best quality — Dr. Dumore and his experienced team can help you make it radiant! Call us for your consultation today.

2541 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3J 0P1 204-832-3910 www.drdumore.com

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ExpErt Advice Optimizing Hormones

Dr. Dara Morden, B.Sc., N.D. Dr. Mindy Campbell, B.G.S., N.D. Nature Doctors Naturopathic Family Medicine, Inc. 1200 Waverley Street, Suite 7 Winnipeg, MB R3T 0P4 943.6079

Do you suffer from low energy, depression, weight gain, PMS or low libido?

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or women of any age, hormones are essential messengers that influence our emotional, mental and physical wellness. In fact, every system in our bodies is intrinsically tied to our hormones, which help influence change on many levels. From heart to bone health, to weight, fertility and mood, hormones are an ever-present influence. Because hormones play such a significant role throughout our lives, hormonal balance must be considered when achieving your best overall health.

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How do I know if my hormones are out of balance?

Do you suffer from one or many of the following: acne, weight gain, fatigue, head “fogginess”, headaches, anxiety, depression, insomnia, low libido, PMS, infertility, or hot flashes? If you’ve answered “yes” to even one of these symptoms, this may be a sign your hormones are out of sync.

What can I do to help rebalance my hormones?

One way you can take a more active role in achieving better hormonal health is to work with a naturopathic doctor.

Naturopathic medicine is an accredited primary health care system that combines natural traditional medicines with modern science to stimulate the body’s own ability to heal. Through a thorough health history, physical examination and hormonal testing, a naturopathic doctor can help identify the root of imbalance and stimulate the body to re-establish healthy hormonal function.

Individual treatments may include natural therapies such as clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, traditional Chinese

medicine/acupuncture and lifestyle changes. Your naturopathic doctor can also work alongside your medical doctor in assessing whether bio-identical hormones are the right fit for you.

What specific hormonal conditions can be addressed through naturopathic medicine?

Naturopathic medicine can help treat many common hormonal concerns that women may encounter at any age.

Irregular periods, cramps, infertility, postpartum depression, PMS, weight gain, acne, and menopausal symptoms are often successfully corrected once the root of hormonal imbalance is identified.

Beyond correcting symptoms, why is important for me to try to achieve optimal hormonal balance?

When our hormones are balanced, our entire body operates in health. It’s when hormonal levels shift that symptoms can arise. The more imbalanced, the more

you may experience symptoms, and the more rapidly aging and disease processes can begin. Serious conditions that often appear with age, such as high cholesterol, bone loss, heart disease and some types of cancer, may have a correlation to prolonged hormonal imbalance over the long-term, and can often be supported or prevented through naturopathic medicine.

Does the benefit of seeing a naturopathic doctor stop at hormones?

In realizing the intricate connection and importance hormones play in our bodies, we see how women at any stage of life, from pre-teen to post-menopause, can benefit from optimizing hormonal health. While everyone’s journey to improved health is different, it is common to see improvement to many bodily symptoms, not just hormones. Because a naturopathic doctor is treating the whole person, we recognize that optimizing the function of all of the bodily systems is the best way to help our patients affect long lasting positive health changes. www.thenaturedoctors.ca

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Nature Doctors is Manitoba’s largest, integrated Naturopathic Medicine Clinic.

We are a team of highly skilled and progressively trained health professionals whose scope encompasses all health concerns.

Individualized Healthcare, Naturally.

Covered by Most Insurance

Waverley Street Winnipeg 281200 FineLifestyles Winnipeg

| 204.943.6079 | info@thenaturedoctors.ca | www.thenaturedoctors.ca

Raising the Bar

PRAIRIE STYLE

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

Local Food with a Great Story to Tell

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ocated in Niverville, Manitoba, farmer Colleen Dyck and her family know hard work. They also know how to battle the elements and ride out the storms.

If there is a better option, she will find it. Mother, triathlete, entrepreneur, Colleen is not one who settles for mediocrity. In fact, she strives to excel and needs good healthy food choices to carry her through business meetings, days devoted to her children, or recovery after a long, hard run.

“The hour after you train is the most important,” she says. “I remember being so hungry but felt there weren’t great options for a healthy and convenient post-workout snack to help me refuel. That’s when I said to myself ‘I think I can do better’.”

And so like everything else, she threw herself into researching healthy, wholesome ingredients that typically went into energy and protein bars.

Together with the Food Development Centre in Portage La Prairie, Colleen spent the better part of eight years creating a recipe that was nutritious and delicious – because that too was important to her.

She knew the value of nourishment but wanted her bars to taste as good to your taste buds as they are for your body.

“It was a long process,” she recalls. “I’d prepare, taste and test; then wait six months for something to go wrong during shelf life testing trials.”

Colleen wanted a product that was real food with many local, high-quality ingredients and vowed not to use preservatives or fake sugars. With time and development as part of her process, Colleen approached the Women’s Enterprise Centre to help fund her project; with a loan, she went on to win the Great Manitoba Food Fight. Those two milestones allowed her the financial flexibility and professional backing she needed to create the look and feel of what grew into The Great GORP Project.

“GORP is a backpacker acronym from the sixties,” explains Colleen. “It stands for ‘Good old raisins and peanuts, it’s a shout out to keeping things real!”

Simple

OPPOSITE Colleen Dyck

The Great GORP Project encapsulates the idea of finding your adventure and reconnecting with the world in an inexpensive and natural way.

“I created the recipe with athletes in mind, but I’ve found that along with the hardcore athletes there is an enthusiastic demographic using the bars for meal replacements when combined with a bag of veggies, a piece of fruit, or as a tool to keep their blood sugar levels up during the day.”

“One of the comments we get most often is that GORP bars sit well in the stomach and don’t cause gas or upset. Even though it’s more expensive to use sprouted brown rice protein, it has turned into one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” remarks Colleen.

The Winnipeg Jets know the value of good nutrition. In fact, the team has been eating GORP for the past two seasons.

“I eat GORP bars before and during games to help fuel my body. They taste great, are all natural and don’t leave me with a typical energy bar aftertaste,” says #33 Zach Bogosian.

Most recently the Winnipeg Blue Bombers ordered GORP bars for spring training. Colleen of course is grateful for the loyalty and loves seeing local clubs support local businesses. The bars are sold at over 100 stores in the province, including Vita Health, Sunrise Health Foods, Mountain Equipment Co-op, Domo Gas and most recently at five select Shoppers Drug Mart stores in Manitoba.

With support like that, Colleen may need to renovate an existing building on the farmyard to keep up with sales, which are on track to increase by almost 200 per cent over last year.

Colleen is passionate about keeping The Great GORP Project in Niverville, “A strong rural economy is important to me, as are the

Get GORP On Your List Each GORP bar has one teaspoon of flax which helps with everything from cancer prevention to digestive health issues and even improves skin. One GORP bar plus a cup of fresh raspberries equals 14 grams of fiber and a healthy dose of antioxidants for an after workout boost of energy. Two teaspoons of hemp seed are added to each bar as well as sunflower seeds, fresh coconut, oats and finally sprouted brown rice protein, which is easy to digest, hypoallergenic and vegan. many amazing people who choose to work with us,” she says. Colleen employs many moms and molds the workweek around the local bus schedule.

“My customers are seriously my best sales people. I have retailers calling me all the time telling me how people are bringing in GORP wrappers and telling them they should be carrying it — that’s just amazing.”

To find out more or order online go to www.gorpworld.com

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A R et iReme Remen n t Co mmu n ity

Where Luxury and Choice are Paramount

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By Tori Stafford Photos by Beautiful Beginnings Photography and Revera – The Wellington

By Tori Stafford Photos by Beautiful Beginnings Photography and Revera – The Wellington

first welcome, welcome, The The tt first Wellington is reminiscent of Wellington is reminiscent of an opulent five-star hotel with an opulent five-star hotel with friendly staff staff enveloped enveloped in in the the friendly building’s elegance. building’s elegance.

Howeverwithin withinmoments, moments,there thereisisaafeeling feeling However of home, home, as as residents residents greet greet one one another another of and share stories over morning coffee. and share stories over morning coffee.

The Wellington, a retirement community The Wellington, a retirement community

by Revera, Revera, isis truly truly aa place place its its residents residents call call by

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home, and and aa place place where where comfort comfort and and home, choice are of utmost importance. choice are of utmost importance.

Situated in in aa stately stately building building on on the the edge edge Situated of the Assiniboine Park, The Wellington of the Assiniboine Park, The Wellington offers services services and and amenities amenities that that one one offers would expect expect to to find find in in aa five-star five-star hotel hotel –– would delicious meals in a beautiful dining room, delicious meals in a beautiful dining room, a lush outdoor patio with a stunning view a lush outdoor patio with a stunning view of the landscaped grounds and a nearby of the landscaped grounds and a nearby forest inhabited inhabited with with wildlife wildlife that that visit visit forest

regularly. There There isis an an in-house in-house salon, salon, aa regularly. fitness room, and an event space for private fitness room, and an event space for private functions.

Nevertheless, The Wellington functions. Nevertheless, The Wellington far from from being being aa hotel. hotel. The The residents residents isis far within this well-established building create within this well-established building create lasting friendships with other residents lasting friendships with other residents and with with staff, staff, says says Geri Geri Lowe, Lowe, senior senior and executivedirector. director.ItItisis“a “aplace placethat’s that’sboth both executive warm and inviting, offering residents and warm and inviting, offering residents and their families peace of mind. ” their families peace of mind.”

The Choice to Live Life to the Fullest Residence at The Wellington is all about choice: the choice to do what you want, when you want to do it, Lowe expresses.

“Our residents can participate in as many or as few activities as they’d like,” she says, noting The Wellington offers a variety of classes, including on-site speakers series presentations and classical music concerts through the local universities.

“We encourage everyone to try different things, and engage socially with one another. But, it is up to the resident to do as they choose.”

Such is the case with dining at The Wellington, as well, Lowe says. With two fresh and nutritious meals served daily in the residence dining room, a lounge, a full-service bar and full kitchens in each suite, those living at The Wellington have a variety of options when it comes to food and refreshments. What’s more, The Wellington boasts its own bus service. This means residents have a number of choices for venturing out, from spending an afternoon at the local theatre, to shopping with friends.

Suites and Services to Suit Your Life The comfort of those living at The Wellington is something the managers and staff members with Revera take very seriously. The suites are specifically designed to offer the space and appliances to make daily living a breeze; residents can spend as much or as little time in private as they wish. The full kitchens include four

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L-R Geri Lowe, Sr. Executive Director, Heather Potapoff, Lifestyle Consultant, Chantelle Brunette, Receptionist, Gail Richter, Director of Administrative Services. These are the friendly staff that will greet you on your arrival at The Wellington and take care of your day to day requests.

appliances and enough space for a breakfast table. The spacious living area allows residents to set up a wellfurnished living room, and still enjoy their dining set with china cabinet if desired. Each suite is equipped with a walk-in shower and grip bars where needed to offer optimal safety.

Safety, Security and Peace of Mind With health and well-being at the forefront of what they do, the staff at The Wellington offer services from weekly housekeeping to fitness classes and foot care.

The Wellington works closely with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and Revera Home Health services, Lowe explains, and is both experienced and welcoming to those requiring nursing services and other medical visits.

Both residents at The Wellington and their loved ones can rest at ease knowing the staff are focused on providing as safe and secure an environment as possible.

This solid concrete building means a safe and quiet atmosphere, and is fully equipped with modern sprinkler and fire safety equipment. Each resident is given a safety pendant, so they can call trained and experienced staff to their side with the push of a button, 24 hours a day. Daily staff members ensure they check in with each resident at least once – though it is common to see all of them many times throughout the day as they socialize with friends, welcome family for a visit, or depart for an outing. “The Wellington is a place where residents enhance their lives,” Lowe expresses. “We’re there to help that happen in any way we can.”

Revera: The Wellington 3161 Grant Avenue Winnipeg 204.831.0788 204.896.0576 (fax) www.reveraliving.com

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ExpErt Advice Why Eye Exams are Important

The Non-Contact Tonometer is the dreaded puff test. It checks the pressure in the eye, because if it’s too high it can cause Glaucoma.

Dr. Dawn Dunford, od, fcovd president and senior optometrist Advanced Vision Centres Inc. 204.467.8044 dr.dawn@advancedvisioncentres.com.

Osborne Spectacle Centre 134 Osborne Street, Winnipeg, MB 204.477.1636 Special Eyes Vision Centre 620 Leila Avenue, Winnipeg, MB 204.338.7867 Stonewall Vision Centre 384 Main Street, Stonewall, MB 204.467.8044 Swan Vision Centre 607 Main Street, Swan River, MB 204.734.5087

The FDT is often called the “clicker” test. This test, which lasts for about a minute, saves lives. It uncovers brain tumours (some cause peripheral vision loss), glaucoma, strokes, and more.

Once in the exam room we use the slit lamp exam (with a bright focused light) to thoroughly examine the layers of the eye. We examine the eyelids for signs of skin cancer (nobody puts suntan lotion there), look for bacterial infections along the eyelid margins, dry eye from having oil glands clogged, eyelashes growing the wrong way, which can irritate the eye and signs of allergies (hives in the eyes).

What We Look For

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t’s frustrating for optometrists when we hear our patients say they have an eye exam to get a new prescription — it’s so much more than that.

We have a minimum of three pre-exam tests in our offices: The Auto-Refractor and AutoKeratometer measure the eye and give us a starting point for your prescription. It also tells us whether the cornea is symmetrical.

Is ThE CoNjuNCTIvA (whites of the eye) actually white, swollen from allergies, red from bacterial infection, or inflamed?

Is ThE CoRNEA clear or cloudy (could be high cholesterol), are there scars or infections? Contact lens overuse causes blood vessels to grow in the cornea and can cause vision loss.

ThE ANTERIoR ChAmbER is the drainage system of the eye that is where the cornea meets the iris. If it’s narrow the patient is at risk for sudden blindness, but this is fixable with a small laser incision.

Is ThE IRIs flat, is the colour uniform, or are there freckles?

ThE LENs is like the engine of the eye and if it isn’t clear a cataract may be forming.

When diabetics have fluctuating sugars, it is the lens in the eye that changes shape and causes large prescription changes.

ThE vITREous is the jelly in the back of the eye. It helps the eye hold its shape, and should be clear to allow light to hit the retina. If you see little black spots floating in the air, it’s caused by the jelly sagging and little bits of protein, called floaters, moving around.

ThE RETINA is the only place in the body where you can see blood flowing through the blood vessels without surgery.

This layer translates light energy into messages for the brain to interpret. The retina highlights high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, strokes, MS, brain tumours, freckles (potential cancer), and more. The earlier we find diseases the quicker they can be treated.

Then we determine a prescription that will allow you to see more clearly. That’s why we recommend you have an eye exam every 12 to 24 months. I’ve had patients develop serious health problems, in less than a year, with no previous signs.

So, you see, an eye exam is much more than a prescription for glasses!

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Move Comfortably and Easily

in to Y o u r Gol de n Ye ar s

By Tonya Lambert Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

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oving is never easy. There is much work to be done — sorting, packing, cleaning, unpacking. However, moving when you are an older adult can be an especially difficult process, as it almost always includes downsizing. One needs to go through all possessions, a lifetime of memories, and decide what to take, what to gift to family and friends and what to do with the leftovers: these are not easy decisions to

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make. Lisa Sinnicks, owner of The Seniors Moving Company, and her staff understand when you have lived in your family home for many years, moving can be a very emotional experience, and they are available to assist you every step of the way.

Helping elderly parents move can also be tough on adult children. The idea that their parents are growing old can be just as overwhelming as the prospect of relocating.

It is never an easy process for the family to begin, coordinate and execute, and sometimes there are disagreements. This is why it is often an option to hire the services of professionals, who, as a third party with no personal involvement, can provide comfort and expert advice considering all feelings involved.

Sinnicks started The Seniors Moving Company after working at length with

ABOVE Lisa Sinnicks, owner of The Seniors Moving Company, and her staff

older adults for the province of Manitoba and witnessing many of the unique difficulties they experienced when faced with moving. She decided she wanted to help with the entire process of relocating into new, often significantly smaller, accommodations in a dignified, respectful and compassionate manner.

Sinnicks begins by sitting down with her clients during a free consultation, getting to know them, learning about their needs and the things that are important to them.

From this meeting, the services required and scope of assistance is determined and can include anything and everything from providing packing materials to help sorting things, from packing and unpacking to transporting items to a recycling or disposal bin. The Seniors Moving Company will even do the cleaning. Since moving is a ‘process’ during which people’s needs and desires can change, Sinnicks, as a moving coordinator, is always ready to accommodate any necessary changes. “By the end of the move, we really know our clients,” Sinnicks says. “It’s an intimate process, because not only are you going through their home and their belongings, but you are basically going

through their lives. Throughout the entire time we work together, respect for our clients is the priority. We want people to be safely in their new homes and happy to be there.”

The Seniors Moving Company helps not only older adults with the moving process, they are also willing to help others who need assistance, such as people with physical or mental challenges or illnesses. With a core philosophy of helping people move into their new homes with as little discomfort as possible, Sinnicks and the staff at The Seniors Moving Company never turn anyone away.

They are also available to help families through the stressful process of estate situations. “People really appreciate our skills and our compassion,” says Sinnicks.

If you or someone you love is preparing to make a move that requires extra assistance and understanding, give Lisa Sinnicks at The Seniors Moving Company a call today. Their caring, client-centered service can help make a difficult transition much easier.

The Seniors Moving Company Winnipeg, MB 204.415.4444 www.seniorsmovingco.com

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COVER

Through Murky Waters Emerges Clarity

By Brandi Parnell Photos Samanta Katz (www.samantakatz.com)

Sitting in his living room with only a blank piece of paper and an open mind, Patrick Maxwell had a revelation. He had been brainstorming what to name his business when the image of a resilient, yet stunning, flower revealed itself. It was a lotus, white and gleaming.

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W

hether it is their humility or their heart, their ability to make people feel welcome, or their compassion for animals, White Lotus Pet Spa is top of mind for pet owners from all circles of Winnipeg. In fact, ask a professional athlete, a new-to-Winnipeg dog owner, a millennial, a born and raised Winnipegger — they all know the reputation of this iconic pet spa located in the heart of Osborne Village.

Sidebar: “All his life he tried to be a good person. Many times, however, he failed.

For after all, he was only human. He wasn’t a dog.” –Charles M. Schulz If good people tend to find one another, they have gathered alongside Maxwell. More

importantly, they have formed a collective team of genuine, emotionally in tune individuals looking to care for your pet.

“In everything we do, we are honest, transparent and fair — not only to the animals, but also to our clients and to one another. I would not expect less than one hundred per cent from myself or anyone who works with me,” he says.

The White Lotus team truly lives and breathes Maxwell’s values of fairness, diversity, openness and respect. In only 16 months of operation they have exploded into a market with some very strong existing businesses. They have not only held their own, but thrived — success Maxwell attributes to the core values of the brand.

“All his life he tried to be a good person. Many times, however, he failed. For after all, he was only human.

He wasn’t a dog.”

–Charles M. Schulz “At the spa, we don’t conduct business transactions. We build relationships.” He makes no apologies when it comes to his approach. It may not be for everyone, but it works for their clients, team and in the end, their brand.

“People who come here just get it when they walk in the door. Yes, we offer quality services at competitive prices, but that is not enough for us. We want to feel good

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COVER

“Take the risk to do what you love, be kind – the rest will work itself out.” about going to work and we want the people who spend their money at our pet spa to feel good about walking through our doors. Our focus has and will always be on the quality relationships we build with animals and humans,” says Maxwell.

Conviction, Loyalty, and Equality “Our facility is beautiful. The lobby feature wall is covered with mylar wallpaper from Los Angeles that I designed and had custom made. It smells great and clients really appreciate the ambiance.

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But the aesthetic design is really just the final piece in our puzzle.” With a team of smart, talented, genuine and compatible individuals, it’s no wonder people are talking about all things White Lotus.

“There is never a day that is unpleasant to come to work. Do what you love, be kind — the rest will work itself out.” That’s a good motto for a team of free thinkers who wish to navigate life’s waters, one pet at a time.

With intuition guiding his journey, Maxwell has managed to seamlessly marry his vision and brand.

“Although the concept started with me, the intention was to unite with others who bring their own gifts to our team. By living my values, I have attracted people who share my

vision and passion. For life and animals.”

This past May, White Lotus was a premium sponsor of Paws for Life, The Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter’s annual gala that was held at The Gates on Roblin Restaurant. The theme for 2014 was Mardi Paw, an event Maxwell and his team fully embraced.

In true White Lotus spirit, they helped put on a beautiful, heartwarming, Louisianastyle fundraiser. “It was an evening filled with generous friends, incredible food and the most amazing, eye-catching attire.”

Maxwell assembled and collaborated with his very talented team of creatives to make something his industry and Winnipeg had never before seen.

The Team For eight hours, the pet spa became a true photography studio, with hair, makeup and a photoshoot.

Josie Vilayvanh, Maxwell’s go-to hair guru, styled lavish updos and Karlee’s signature 1920s-inspired finger waves. Senior groomer Gillian Cabel’s sister, Meaghan Cabel, a talented makeup artist, did the makeup of each girl from White Lotus.

Each dress was designed by Maxwell to capture the unique essence of its wearer.

Maxwell showcased one of his many gifts with his idea of fusing silk dresses with vintage lace and cruelty-free ostrich and peacock feathers. He took his concept to his favourite local designer, Lisa Dyck. With

her design skills and creativity, the dresses took form and marked a major first! The finale was a group of White Lotus leading ladies transformed into stunning models.

The final piece was showcase jewelry, from Mokada on Waterfront Drive.

“All eyes were on each gorgeous member of our team and at the end of the day I think it enhanced the gala and encouraged everyone to embrace the theme for next year,” recalls Maxwell.

It was a spectacular evening in support of pet rescue, done in first class fashion. That is how Maxwell lives his life and conducts his business — with integrity, honesty and zest.

“When we committed to the event, we

committed to success on a large scale. The focus was to support the Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter’s efforts in continuing to provide a euthanasia-free sanctuary for unwanted animals that deserve a chance at a fulfilling life.”

He is a game changer who evokes conviction, every day — one pet at a time. For more information or to arrange grooming, an overnight stay, or day of daycare at the beautiful White Lotus Pet Spa, call Patrick W. Maxwell or any one of his colleagues at 204.269.2626.

White Lotus Pet Spa 478 River Avenue 204.269.2626 Winnipeg

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FOLKLORAMA’S

VIP World Tour

WINNIPEG’S ALL-INCLUSIVE VACATION

By Rebecca Henderson Photos courtesy of Folklorama

F

or Folklorama, 45 years as the largest and longest-running multicultural festival in Canada is no small feat. Nationally and internationally envied, its ability to run for two weeks with over 40 pavilions that offer a myriad of experiences is something the festival is incredibly proud of.

“The fantastic thing with our festival is you can be in a grand hall with a massive stage and all the lights and trappings of a full theatre spectacle — with the show, the performances and the entertainment — and right after you can literally go to a church basement and cosy in with all the people who are there to enjoy that show and it’s really intimate,” says Debra Zoerb, executive director of Folkmorama.

She describes Folklorama as a family affair. Whether it’s for people who recently immigrated to Canada and are looking for a piece of home, or Winnipeggers who seek out a specific cultural dish, it’s the openness, warmth and community that is the success of Folklorama. “Folklorama really encapsulates the friendly Manitoban mentality of opening our doors.”

There are 20,000 volunteers that run Folklorama. From performers and cooks, to pavilion coordinators and board members, their

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combined love for multiculturalism makes Folklorama a success.

In the 1970s, Folklorama was originally a one-time celebration of Manitoba’s centennial. Everyone had so much fun that it grew into one week and then expanded into two. Zoerb says she can’t imagine the festival running for less than two weeks now, given the growth of the festival and the possibility for it to become even larger.

Folklorama added two new pavilions this year: United Kingdom and Andean (named after the Andes mountain range). These pavilions will highlight cultures from Wales, Scotland, England and Northern Ireland; and Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina and Ecuador, respectively.

Festivalgoers often tell Zoerb they book their summer holidays to be able to attend Folklorama. It’s a smart decision, considering Folklorama’s VIP World Tour option is like booking an all-inclusive vacation — but at a much more competitive price and with a few more destinations.

Folklorama’s VIP World Tours are packages of two to three pavilions with transportation taken care of between each location.

It also includes appetizers, dinner, dessert and drinks at the venues.

Zoerb says VIPs will be escorted into the pavilion — no waiting

LEFT Israel Pavilion - Shalom Square, Folklorama. A spectacular performance is guaranteed along with beautiful artwork and great food at Folklorama’s Israel Pavilion. Watch the internationally renowned Sarah Sommer Chai Folk Ensemble bring to life the best of Israeli folklore and culture through music, song and dance. Come enjoy a variety of mouthwatering favourites like potato borekas, pita, hummus, and falafels and savour a glass of imported wine or sabra orange and chocolate liqueur.

TOP RIGHT The Ethiopian Pavilion, Folklorama. If you are a coffee lover, then Folklorama’s Ethiopian Pavilion is a must for your summer to-do list! Java enthusiasts can enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony (an important part of Ethiopian cultural life), alongside platters of injera (bread) served with spicy sauce or vegetables.

in line — and will be given guided tours of the cultural displays. Then they will be brought to their reserved seats to enjoy performances and the atmosphere with food and drinks brought right to the table. “[VIP World Tours] are about experiencing the festival in the easiest, most straight- forward way,” says Zoerb. “We take care of everything.”

Like the festival itself, VIP World Tours is a program that developed and evolved over time as the festival grew. VIP World Tours have cycling tours as well, where cyclists meet at a central location in Winnipeg. A Folklorama tour guide will then lead cyclists to each pavilion in their package with every VIP experience included: skipping the line, full table service and cultural lessons.

This year, Folklorama added VIP Walking Tours. Zoerb says there are some venues that are close enough together that it made sense to offer a VIP option where people can go out, enjoy the air and walk through one of Winnipeg’s most historic neighbourhoods: St. Boniface.

Furthermore, with a minimum of 15 people, customized VIP World Tour packages are also available. “If people look at the packages and nothing catches your eye, contact us and we can build a tour for you, whether it’s one pavilion or multiple pavilions,” says Zoerb.

The Folklorama website (folklorama.ca) provides further details regarding VIP World Tour packages as well as year-round programming. A recent website redesign has made the visitor experience easier to navigate and with full information on all 44 of Folklorama’s 2014 pavilions.

Festival organizers invite you to think of Folklorama – which takes place Aug. 3-16 –not just as a festival, but as something you do. “How will you Folklorama?” is the festival’s theme. “We want our visitors to think about what Folklorama means to them,” says Zoerb.

A great way to get into the Folklorama spirit is to attend the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Folklorama Kick-Off at The Forks on July 26. Start out at the MTS Marketplace with crafts, workshops, music and dancing in the afternoon and then stay for the concert, which starts at 7 p.m. — all free of charge.

It’s also an opportunity for those who haven’t experienced Folklorama to catch a sneak peek of the festival along with pop-up events happening throughout the city in the week preceding the festival.

So, “How will you Folklorama?” Food? Music? Dance? Drinks? The options are unlimited!

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July 1 Osborne Village Canada Street Celebration July 2 Big & Rich with Cowboy Troy Club Regent Event Centre 1425 Regent Ave W,

events WINNIPEG

July/august

July 4 Jesus Christ Superstar Arena Spectacular, MTS Centre, 300 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB July 8-10 The Winnipeg Goldeyes vs Sioux City Explorers July 9-13 (RecuRRing DAily) Winnipeg Folk Festival Birds Hill Provincial Park July 16-27 Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival Old Market Square August 1-4 Islendingadagurinn - Icelandic Festival of Manitoba Various venues August 2 Bruno Mars: Moonshine Jungle Tour, MTS Centre, 300 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB August 3–16 (RecuRRing DAily) Folklorama, Various locations throughout the city August 10 Prairie Jam Music Festival Investors Group Field, 315 Chancellor Matheson Road, Winnipeg, MB August 13-29 Disney’s The Little Mermaid Rainbow Stage, Kildonan Park

August 20-31 Wicked Centennial Concert Hall, 555 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB

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LEFT photo courtesy tourism Winnipeg FineLifestyles

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45

Unique, Delicious and Memorable Dining in Historic Exchange District Ambience

By Susana Segura Photos Leif Norman

L

ocated at 173 McDermot Ave – just north of “Portage and Main” in the heart of the historic East Exchange District – lies the newest ”must-try” restaurant.

Named for the historic building where it’s housed, The Mitchell Block Restaurant and Lounge has just opened its doors in time for the Exhange’s prolific summer traffic. Located where long-time Italian restaurant, TreVisi, operated for nearly 20 years, The Mitchell Block represents the vision and labour of Sean McKay, experienced and edgy chef/owner.

McKay is passionate about the building’s history.

Named for the Mitchell Drug Company it housed in the 1880s, elements of its architectural and pharmaceutical history have been reclaimed,

Sean McKay

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restored and worked into the renovated décor.

McKay has surrounded himself with a new handpicked staff of seasoned and innovative people who share his vision: a unique, delicious, and memorable dining experience in the heart of one of Winnipeg’s most popular and urbane areas.

Ideally situated for the convenience of the Exchange’s year-round theatre crowds, The Mitchell Block’s menu was partially designed so that loyal theatre-goers can enjoy their 5:30 p.m. dinners and still make it to the 7:30 p.m. show. The completely renovated dining room also promises a unique dining experience for business lunches, romantic dates and friendly gatherings. The entire restaurant can be booked for private functions and celebrations worthy of

the contemporary and creative menu.

The restaurant features a sophisticated and comfortable upstairs lounge capable of seating up to 50 patrons, where those sipping libations can enjoy chef-created appetizers with sharing in mind. Meant to be enjoyed with gusto and eaten with the hands, it’s all about the food at The Mitchell Block. The freshest of Beef Tartare, sea-salted roasted almonds, calamari, and other delectable appetizers complement any drink. With a tincture-inspired cocktail or a glass of wine in hand, patrons can enjoy lingering evidence of the second floor’s 1880s history as a compounding laboratory — a nod to

the building’s “pharma” past. The Mitchell Block’s lounge is a captivating destination.

For those who fondly remember the old TreVisi, which McKay operated for the last year, a small selection of handmade pastas and the ever-popular gnocchi remain alongside his entirely original creations.

The new menu leaves no one wanting; if variety is the spice of life, The Mitchell Block has it all.

Using the best in available local and seasonal ingredients, Chef McKay’s passion for his art shines through his culinary creativity. Having forged extensive relationships with local

Manitoba farmers, McKay stocks the kitchens with a selection of the fines fresh local and available produce and meats.

Using state-of-the-art equipment to create unique, modern and delicious food in the ambience of one of the oldest renovated in-use buildings in the Exchange, The Mitchell Block provides an unforgettable dining experience.

The Mitchell Block 173 McDermot Ave. Winnipeg 204.949.9032 www.themitchellblock.com

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Rising Quality

One Baked GOOd at a time

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Shawn Fillion

T

he Upper Crust Bakery’s customers remind owner Sheldon Pescitelli of the movie Forest Gump — when Forest lists the many ways one can eat shrimp.

It’s no surprise, considering the heartysized cinnamon buns are The Upper Crust Bakery’s most popular item on the menu.

Pescitelli says he bakes 800 packs every weekend to keep up with demand.

“Customers always pull me off to the side and tell me how they eat our cinnamon buns,” says Pescitelli. “They slice it, fry it, put peanut butter on it. I’ve had every description on how to eat them.”

The newly added poppy-seed bun — similar to the cinnamon bun — is also becoming an in demand treat. Made with rich poppy-seed butter, the bun is very popular with seniors, who head exclusively to the bakery for it.

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A summertime favourite of The Upper Crust Bakery patrons is the dill bun, which Pescitelli learned (from one of his customers) tastes amazing with an added piece of salami. Two families who own farms in Selkirk grow fresh dill specifically for the bun, and Pescitelli says due to its popularity, he may have to find more farmers.

Quality is incredibly important to Pescitelli. He opens the kitchen sometimes

at 3 a.m. to start baking from scratch all the goodies you see behind the glass.

Always fresh and delicious, Pescitelli says he finds that some of his baked goods don’t always make it home in the original packaging. “I often pick up Styrofoam and plastic in the parking lot,” he laughs.

The Upper Crust Bakery opened 25 years ago in Selkirk by previous owner Frank Wiebe. It was and still is a common pit stop for Manitobans looking to add a delicious flare to their holiday menus. This is one reason Pescitelli never made a formal announcement regarding taking over the ownership of the bakery. The quality of food and Wiebe’s stellar customer service is something he would never deviate from.

However, Pescitelli says that doesn’t mean there isn’t room to grow.

One year ago, Pescitelli opened a new location on Roblin Boulevard, and very recently, the development of The Upper Crust Bakery’s official website: www.theuppercrustbakery.ca. The website includes a menu list, scrumptious pictures of baking and Google map directions to The Upper Crust Bakery in Winnipeg and Selkirk.

Making it easy for his customers and making sure they leave The Upper Crust Bakery happy is Pescitelli’s goal. Whether it’s donating cinnamon buns to schools for their breakfast programs or dinner buns to a local church, being a part of the community is important. “We stand behind anything we sell. Things can happen, but we fix it. You’re going to be happy when you leave [The Upper Crust Bakery].”

Located at 315 Manitoba Ave. in Selkirk and 3416 Roblin Blvd. in Winnipeg, stop in and try a cinnamon bun or a dill bun — there’s no shortage of ways to eat them. For more information on hours and services, please visit The Upper Crust Bakery’s website.

The Upper Crust Bakery 3416 Roblin, Winnipeg 204.779.6789 204.296.4055 uppercrustbakery@mymts.net www.theuppercrustbakery.ca

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Brewing SucceSS:

One Cup at a Time

By Brandi Parnell Photos BTL Wedding

“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.”

C.S.Lewis

W

hether your preference is green or oolong, rooibos or black, whether you steep your tea once or re-

steep it three times, tea is no longer just for your granny. Two Winnipeg entrepreneurs are changing the way people think about tea — and life, quite frankly.

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Melissa Tannahill and Lisa Berezowski are tea besties. They sleep, breathe and steep tea; they have dined with the Wealthy Barber, David Chilton, and rubbed elbows alongside Jim Treliving, Chairman and Founder of Boston Pizza Restaurants and CBC’s Dragons’ Den, who did a deal with the parent company Steeped Tea. Their approach to selling tea is simple: they work in tandem, lean on one another and believe completely in not only their products but their proudly Canadian owned and operated company founded by Tonia and Hatem Jahshan, who started Steeped Tea’ as a passionate search for the perfect cup of tea.

Life is busy; tea is just the pause we all need.

“Tea is a grocery list item. It’s a consumable gift and best of all, buying it from an independent consultant supports the little person — your next door neighbour, your friend,” says Lisa.

Naturally flavoured products, Steeped Tea donates to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, is mindful of allergens and has a wide range of caffeine-free teas.

The tea that started it all is the Earl Grey de la Creme tea, a high-end black tea still available for purchase today.

Having converted hundreds of husbands and many more coffee lovers, Melissa says their business is all about the experience.

“We customize tea parties,” she says as she brews up a jug of Apple Raspberry Tar-TEAnis. “There are so many reasons to celebrate, to get together with good friends, to hang out with family — all occasions for tea.”

Together, she and Lisa (who is known around the city as the Tea Hag) have hosted mother and daughter teas complete with tea infused cupcakes, traditional high teas paired with pastries, and back yard BBQs with tea infused cocktails.

Their tea menu includes forward-thinking healthy trends, such as Matcha and Nettle Greek Mountain tea, but does not discriminate; the less adventurous tea drinker will find more recognizable staples such as English and Irish Breakfast and familiar ingredients such as bits of raspberries, coconut flakes and rose blossoms.

Their teas brew up beautifully but Melissa and Lisa also have an array of accessories available for purchase that include tea travel mugs and an Iced Tea Infusion Jug.

“Tea is sexy,” smiles the “Tea Hag.” “It is an inexpensive purchase that doesn’t leave you feeling remorseful.” Not only is tea a trendy topic with health gurus but it can be enjoyed hot or cold, sweetened or black. Lisa says some of her regular customers drink their tea with almond or coconut milk, agave syrup or honey — it’s all personal preference and all available online.

Steeped Tea has a monthly program called the Tea-Zer that makes for a perfect gift.

You can’t buy happiness but you can buy tea — 2 per month mailed directly to a friend’s door. For tea, a great accessory or to discuss business opportuni-teas, call Melissa or Lisa.

Melissa Tannahill 204.612.2473 meltannahill@shaw.ca www.mysteepedtea.com/melissat Lisa Berezowski 204.232.1015 teahag@shaw.ca www.mysteepedtea.com/ LisaBerezowski

Apple Raspberry TarTEAni Ingredients · 1/4 cup Apple Raspberry Sorbet Fruit Tea, Organic · 1 cup Cranberry & Raspberry juice blend · 3 oz vodka · Raspberries and lime for garnish · White sugar

Instructions 1. Steep Apple Raspberry Sorbet Fruit Tea and a handful of raspberries in vodka overnight.

2. Drain and keep the vodka and raspberries for your drinks.

3. Rim your martini glass with a lime wedge and white sugar.

4. Mix tea-infused vodka and Cranberry & Raspberry juice together, pour into glass.

5. Top with raspberries.

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A Hidden Gem Where Creative Meets Home Cooked

By FLW Staff Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

J

ust beyond the city limits, where the road stretches out forever and the sun sets low, is a cozy café in the charming town of Stony Mountain. Popular with locals and visitors alike, Summit Café recently celebrated its first anniversary.

Carl and Nadine Dannenberg, the husband and wife owners of Summit Café, are not sure whether their success can be attributed to their delicious food, the fun atmosphere or their trademark penny floor. But one year and 197,365 pennies are worth celebrating.

Their signature-designed floor was a combined effort from friends and family. “It took three days to make the penny floor,” says Nadine, “it was a lot of hard work but a lot of fun too,” she smiles.

With the help of her sister, Josée Wiedmer, the unique décor — including upcycled items such as the penny floor and other creative details — can be found throughout the restaurant and leaves quite an impression on their guests.

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In fact, people have made Summit a destination for the floor alone.

But that’s not why they keep coming back.

The menu at the Summit Café is superb comfort food with a twist.

Some of their moniker items include Croque Monsieur, Bacon Marmalade and Spicy Shrimp Grilled Cheese. Like the floor, the Dannenberg’s look at life with ingenuity. Each mouth-watering bite reflects their approach to food and hospitality.

“We’re dedicated to serving freshly prepared meals at reasonable prices in the best dining experience possible,” comments Nadine Dannenberg. “We work hard to make sure that our values shine through every customer interaction.” It’s that hard working attitude, along with bacon marmalade on their BLT sandwich and common ‘cents’, that has afforded this charming eatery a solid reputation and loyal clientele within the region.

Carl and Nadine Dannenberg

Top of Their Game Nadine and Carl know that change keeps their menu and life fresh. They share this philosophy with their guests by offering an ‘Invent Your Own’ interactive menu option. In other words, come for dinner, choose fresh quality ingredients from conventional to gourmet options and they’ll do the rest. “We want to entice and satisfy every palette,” she says.

The broad scope of the menu items is impressive, the staff is hospitable and the food will make your mouth water. Best of all, The Dannenbergs love hearing that their customers appreciate their passion for invention. Perhaps this combination is what keeps hungry patrons coming back for more.

Currently, the café offers two evening specials. The first is for the fun and thirsty — Thursday Night Wing Night. It’s a perfect match for an ice-cold beer on the cusp of a weekend and the wings are available in six different flavours.

Or, for a more intimate evening out, Summit Café offers Date Night on the third Saturday of every month — a delicious dinner served by candlelight.

No matter the day or night, Summit Café is the perfect spot to wish away a day with an inviting atmosphere and top quality food, one penny at a time.

For summer hours and vacation alert, please visit the website.

The Summit Café 23 Main Street, Stony Mountain 204.344.0205 www.summitcafe.ca |

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HOW TO

IN THE SUN Central Park is probably the city’s most celebrated green spot, but it doesn’t have the monopoly on natural beauty. “The one that I

discovered a couple years ago is the High Line,” says Claudia Viani,

concierge, leisure and local business operations director at Carlson

WHEN THE MERCURY IS UP Rebecca Schneidereit STORY Pauline Boldt QUOTES & PHOTOGRAPHY 26 Projects DESIGN

Wagonlit Travel.

“I never grow tired of photographing the High

Line, no matter the time of year. Summer though

brings people out: to soak up the sunshine or just to be removed from the bustle of the city for a lunch break in your own urban garden.”

The High Line is set to reach its ultimate completion “later this December in New York City may be traditional, but summer can produce just as many postcards (and you can ditch the parka)!

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year,” says Jennifer McGibbon of NYC & Company – Canada, who adds Flushing Meadows – Corona Park, Governors Island, Prospect Park, Roosevelt Island and Wave Hill to the “green space” shortlist.

“Architecturally, Prospect Park and Central Park have… similarities,”

she says, since the two parks “were both designed by the same people.” McGibbon also says that “there are a lot of special events taking place this year celebrating the

75th and 50th anniversaries” of Flushing Meadows – Corona Park’s World’s Fairs in 1939/1964.

Central Park, of course, hosts Shakespeare in the Park, with King Lear and Much Ado About Nothing onstage this summer. The Bryant Park Summer Film Festival,

meanwhile, allows cineastes to complement golden summer days with silver screen evenings.

IN THE SHADE The Metropolitan Museum of Art spotlights artists including Goya and the Pre-Ra-

phaelites this summer. And don’t neglect the umpteen Dark Age masterpieces (including the Unicorn Tapestries) sequestered separately at the Cloisters.

“Many visitors are not aware of the wide variety of the draws and attractions

throughout all of NYC’s five boroughs,” says McGibbon. “A trip to the Bronx Zoo is great for families … Queens is also home to some fantastic, but lesser-known, museums.”

Broadway’s summer offerings include Cabaret, a darkly stylized dissection of prewar Germany; Les Miserables, which condenses Victor Hugo’s labyrinthine source text into a few ferocious hours; and Matilda, a Tony-festooned Roald Dahl adaptation.

Viani suggests visitors “plan ahead” for the Big Apple, which may prove especially vital for those aiming to catch particular shows. Numerous productions, including Cabaret, wrap in (or before) August.

Shopping might qualify as either a “sun” or “shade” pastime. “There’s just different

kinds of shopping,” Viani says, listing choices from Canal Street — “where you have lots of small, individual little shops” to “big, huge department stores” (Viani mentions Century 21 and Diane von Furstenberg’s as trip-worthy).

McGibbon names a few Brooklyn destinations, hinting that vintage enthusiasts may find the area rewarding. “The BoCoCa neighbourhoods (Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens) are known for great shopping,” she notes.

“The Brooklyn Flea in Williamsburg, open every Sunday,

draws people from all over. While queuing to get in is well

worth your time, make sure you arrive early as you’ll not be the only one looking to walk away with a new treasure.”

IN BETWEEN

McGibbon says accommodation availability, particularly in outlying areas, is everexpanding. One choice with character: “the new Bronx Opera House Hotel just

opened in the South Bronx this past August… it is located in the old Opera House,” she notes.

Closer to the city core, Viani recommends The Chatwal and The Sherry-Netherland: “it only has 50 rooms and suites, and most of them overlook Central Park,” she says

of the latter. Just one word of warning: the Sherry-Netherland’s website indicates that permanent space is possible. Are you positive you’ll convince yourself to leave?

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St. Boniface Golf Club Something Fore Everyone

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Rejean Brandt

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W

ith resort-like lodging and beautiful green scenery, it’s hard to believe the St. Boniface Golf Club is just five minutes from downtown Winnipeg.

For those who want to escape the urban jungle for a few hours, the St. Boniface Golf Club is a refreshing destination.

“It’s a great golf course,” says Darren McMillan, general manager of the St. Boniface Golf Club. “It’s a fun and friendly atmosphere with excellent value.”

The St. Boniface Golf Club is a semiprivate club, but McMillan says the perks of being a member are superb. “Our membership includes access to the fitness room, a locker, club storage, membership pricing in the Pro Shop, gallery and free use of a pull cart. A separate membership is available which includes unlimited power cart use for the season.”

McMillan took over as GM in January, although his relationship with the club stems over 20 years. McMillan says the St. Boniface Golf Club has changed dramatically over two decades. A new clubhouse was built 10 years ago, which modernized the exterior and created an open concept inside in the club. “We’re an organization that’s continually reinvesting in our facility and trying to always add new amenities and services to add value for our members.”

One major installment McMillan spearheaded is the Virtual Teaching, Fitting, and Driving Range project.

Throughout the year, members will have the opportunity to practice their swing in a virtual driving range and simulator.

This project provides golfers a warmup with electronic feedback to perfect technique before heading to the green. It’s a professional service offered by the club and an addition that will give golfers the ability to practice their swing year round.

Enhancing members’ experiences is the basis for many of the developments and improvements happening at the St. Boniface Golf Club. A pond expansion has been completed to modernize the look of the golf course and a full patio with an

outdoor kitchen newly built this summer for members to come together, eat outside and enjoy a clear view of other golfers finishing up the 18 hole course.

Ian Wong, St. Boniface Golf Club’s executive chef, will create a specific menu for the outside patio — an offshoot of the main menu available inside. One of the golf club’s delectable attractions is the gourmet food created by Wong, a graduate of Red River College’s Culinary Arts program.

Every item on the menu is homemade (including sauces and sides) and the menu changes every golf season, which

McMillan says is special to the St. Boniface Golf Club. “We have a pretty talented crew back there,” he says of Wong and his staff.

McMillan describes the St. Boniface Golf Club’s course as challenging, yet playable.

He says it’s not uncommon for players to finish the course in less than four hours, which can be rare for most golf courses in the city. “The pace of play is very good here.”

Furthermore, McMillan says he wouldn’t want members spending too long on the course and not taking time to enjoy a meal in the gallery afterwards.

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McMillan also doesn’t want members (and nonmembers) to miss out on the Alternate Shot Classic, which is an annual men’s event at the golf course.

“It’s exactly as it sounds,” laughs McMillan. “You and your partner alternate between shots to and on the green — it’s a fun and unique format.”

The Alternate Shot Classic happens Labour Day weekend. A practice round is available to players on the Friday and then the event runs through Saturday and Sunday with participants playing three rounds of golf.

McMillan says there is a barbecue offered to players on the Saturday with the event culminating with a dinner and dance on the Sunday. Players are encouraged to bring along significant others who will enjoy dinner as well. The price is included in the entry fee.

“There’s a very social side to our membership,” explains McMillan, citing the Alternate Shot Classic as one example, and the monthly Nine & Dine — a partner event with non-competitive golf and gourmet food — as another.

For more information on memberships and to book a tee time, visit the St. Boniface Golf Club website at www.stbonifacegolfclub.com or call 204.233.2497.

Members can access a private social media page on Clubster for up-to-date information on weather conditions, tee times and events happening at the club. Available in the App Store, Clubster can be accessed on iPhone, iPad, tablet or any other smartphone device.

St. Boniface Golf Club 100 Youville, St Boniface, MB 204.233.2497 www.stbonifacegolfclub.com

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30th Anniversary

August 15, 16, 17, 2014 A Community Tradition for 30 years

Main Attraction Free Outdoor Entertainment Stage (at the south end of Main Street) Amazing Fireworks Display Friday at 10pm Annual Parade Saturday at 11am Wonder Shows all weekend Street Vendors - Beer Gardens Petting Zoo Free Family Entertainment Stage Show n’ Shine Car Display Sunday & so much more!!

Friday, August 15th Keith and Renee 8:15pm Manitoba-based singer/songwriters and 2012 CCMA Western Canadian Music Award winners for Country Recording of the Year for Best Day.

Dust Rhinos 9:00pm Blossoming from a trio of buskers to a 5-piece Celtic rock juggernaut, the Rhinos’ controlled chaos will get people out of their seats, on the dance floor, and clamouring for One! More! Song! As their loyal and ever-growing fan base can attest, when the Dust Rhinos are on stage, the only thing that won’t take you by surprise is how much fun you’re having.

For more information on Stonewall Quarry Days call 204-467-7979 or visit us at www.stonewallquarrydays.ca Just 15 minutes north of Winnipeg off Highway #7 or Hwy #236

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TODAY, FINE LIFESTYLES REACHES APPROXIMATELY 1.3 MILLION PEOPLE

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For more information, call: 306.540.3320 or visit: www.finelifestyles.ca

for the Fences

By Nicolle Hodges Photos Courtesy of The Winnipeg Goldeyes

M

inor league baseball fans have braved the Winnipeg weather since 1994 to watch a good old game of pitch, hit and run. In more than two decades of baseball, the Winnipeg Goldeyes have only missed the post-season three times — a record that begins each year with their intensive training camp, which is currently underway.

Rick Forney, Goldeyes manager, has nothing but praise for the lot of young bucks gathered on this year’s roster. “We

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have an exciting group in tremendous shape, with speed, power and athleticism,” says Forney.

With the recent announcement that veteran infielders, Rhyne Hughes and Yurendell de Caster, will no longer be playing for the organization, Forney assures they are excited to put some new people in uniform. Some of those fresh faces have really impressed Forney, and it’s no wonder, with 18 shutout innings in just two pre-season games.

The development of the team so far —14 pitchers and 12 position players — came down to strategic sifting as Forney scouted to build his winning roster. “We were looking for good quality, youthful, lefthanded guys,” says Forney, when they found pitcher Kyle Anderson, formally with the Toronto Blue Jays organization.

Building the tenacious team continued as more talent took to the field with shortstop Tyler Kuhn, who is known to play hard and fast. The Goldeyes reeled in a big fish with major leaguer Reggie Abercrombie,

With hours of practice and application needed to pump out runs and wins, Forney says at the core of it all, not only does a team require good baseball players, but people with good character too. “The team is together 10 to 12 hours a day, in hotels and on the bus, so you need to make sure you have the right people who can coexist,” says Forney. “We have been fortunate every other year, and feel we have achieved that again this year.”

Forney anticipates that, come September, some really meaningful baseball will take place, and hometown fans should be excited to watch their Winnipeg Goldeyes at Shaw Park. “As everyone stays healthy and keeps the roster intact, I think we will be flashy on defense and have good pitching,” says Forney. “I think this team has the potential to be better than any team we’ve ever had.”

Information on the 2014 season is available by calling the Goldeyes office at 204.982.2273 or visiting Goldeyes.com.

who recently signed on following time with the Florida Marlins, the Houston Astros (2006-2008) and saw success in his last four seasons with the Sioux Falls Canaries of the American Association.

Finally, Forney found the dynamic Donnie Webb, a young outfielder that he claims can “hit for average, for power, steal bases and score runs.”

The first day of training camp brought light snow, something that many of the 26 potential players had never seen before.

However, the focus remained on the hard work and commitment ahead. “From border to border, we play 100 games in 110 days, and we will carry 21 guys for the season, so you just pray nobody gets hurt,” says Forney. “We are off to a good start, as we won two practice games, and the weather seems to be improving.”

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Manitoba’s Most Unique Gol fin G Exp EriE ncE

By Tori Stafford Photos TDL Photography

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For those who are just learning, those who’ve been playing for years, or those who want to improve their short game, Fantasy Lake is the perfect destination.

J

ust outside of Winnipeg, off Highway No.1 East and hidden from passing vehicles, lays a gem of a golf course, half-buried in the “rough.”

As you approach Fantasy Lake Golf Course, the province’s only 18-hole Par 3, it becomes clear the course and its properties are unique. Carved out of what was once a mere field, Fantasy Lake boasts a vast majority of holes on beautiful man-made lakes — not your average Par 3 course.

Jamie and Jackie McCreedy are secondgeneration McCreedys who built, own and operate the course. They encourage families members of all ages to come out and enjoy the course, but just don’t assume that all Par 3 courses are for beginners or simple-play-only, Jackie explains.

“A lot of people are of the perception that all par 3 courses are ‘chip n’ putt’ courses, and that they’re all nine holes that you play twice,” she says.

“We have 18 different holes, and they are all par 3, but we’re unique and challenging.”

Jackie laughs at how often she has seen players look shocked coming in from the course. As all golfers know, the short game is the downfall of many a player, she says, and those who rely on their driver to save their score often end up struggling more than usual.

With 14 of 18 holes on the water, and the 9th hole designed with an island green, the course is rife with its fair share of challenges. It boasts spectacular views, as well as birds, ducks and other wildlife spotting the shoreline as you play a round.

Best of all, it takes significantly less time to complete, making it ideal for office or charity tournaments.

Creating a course that is welcoming to golfers of all ages and skill levels is something the McCreedy’s take a great deal of pride in, and part of doing so embodies a “golf done differently” motto, Jackie expresses. Fantasy Lake employs a “common sense dress code,” and those on the course are asked to adhere to general golf etiquette, like allowing those who catch up with you to play through.

However, strict time rules are not enforced by a marshal.

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“You worry about your own game,” Jackie says, noting that this less-rigid approach keeps intimidation at bay for newer golfers, and allows each player to enjoy their game the way they like to play it.

“The experience here is what you make it. If you want to play with strict rules and are trying to improve your game, you can do that; if you want to come out with your kids and play a round at your own pace, you can do that; if you come out with your boyfriend or girlfriend to spend the time just the two of you, you can do that,” she says.

“We want you to enjoy yourself when you’re here. We don’t pair people up who don’t want to be paired up, because we want everyone to be comfortable playing the game the way they want to,” Jackie emphasizes. Fantasy Lake Golf Course is also home to the largest women’s league in all of Manitoba — Chix with Stix — which Jackie developed in an attempt to create a golf experience for women in the area that is welcoming and all about having a good time.

Fantasy Lake Golf Course is one of the only courses that closes to the public for “women only” events, bucking the trends of tradition often associated with “the old boys club” of golfing. It’s just one more way that Fantasy Lake offers “golf done differently,” but it’s not to say that men aren’t welcome at the course. Fantasy Lake Golf Course is “welcoming to anyone and everyone who wants to enjoy the game,” Jackie says.

“We offer affordable golf for everyone with our $10 Tuesdays and $5.55 Fridays: juniors, seniors, families, couples... we really work hard on trying to make your experience here a good one. We’re friendly and inviting to everybody, young and old,” she says.

“We want you to come out and enjoy the course and enjoy the game, make the experience whatever you want it to be.” fantasy lake Golf course Highway no. 1 East (eight minutes from the Mint) Winnipeg 204.777.7273 info@fantasylake.ca www.fantasylake.ca

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Constellations and CoCktails A P erfect Out d O O r d in n er PA rty

By Brandi Parnell

H

ot summer nights are best enjoyed with great friends and gourmet food; astronomy is the perfect accompaniment. With a short season in Manitoba, it is critical to make the most of each outdoor dining experience.

Set the Mood As is the case with any dinner party, start with ambiance.

Sometimes the sounds of nature are just enough; perhaps you want to hear the birds

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sing, listen to leaves dance with wind, or simply enjoy the sounds of crickets’ chirping.

Maybe you prefer listening to trending female indie artists, or possibly you’d rather unwind to the sounds of John Legend crooning in the background. Be it the sounds of nature or the sounds of an acoustic guitar, set the tone for a great evening.

Sit Back and enjoy Next, enhance your night with a relaxed, earthy atmosphere that invites your guests to kick off their

sandals and forget they’re in the city. Decks and pergolas can be a perfect mental escape from weeks without a vacation. Baskets filled with waving purple petunias or hanging lanterns are whimsical ways to wish away responsibility.

These days’ patio accessories are no longer just for pool owners; try accessorizing your feast on the deck with fun colourful dinnerware and bright lemon yellow napkins. Cover your patio table with a

Finger food is forever in fashion. Some fun appetizers can be made right on the grill such as BBQ nachos or flatbread pizzas. Get organized ahead of time and cook food in close proximity to your guests to ensure you don’t miss out on the festivities.

Switch to craft brewed beers that can be chilled in steel buckets, create fabulous salads with local ingredients, and grill meats and fresh produce slowly to draw out the evening. cozy Up The dishes can wait. After dinner is served, enjoy espresso alongside a fresh fruit pie, offer up blankets or if the option is available, light a fire.

Making the most of each day can be as easy as choosing local ingredients and extending your home to include your deck. Fresh air and engaging conversation are the best side dishes to any summer night.

Sample Summer

Menu Appetizer Antipasto including roasted garlic hummus, olives, fig jam and rice crackers

Salad Local beets, walnuts and feta cheese with a honey balsamic dressing

Dinner Grilled pizza made on a cauliflower crust with cured meats, crimini mushrooms, garden zucchini and red onions

Dessert Fresh fruit, dark chocolate and port

teal cloth and tea lights to take your dinner guests on a creative journey as they “nipple nosh” beneath the Dippers.

Pots of flowers accent any wooden structure and have the ability to frame open spaces.

White daisies are always in season and can be moved around to chase the sun. Additionally, herbs in pots can double as natural air fresheners while serving as easily accessible ingredients for your summer menu.

Kick off your evening with refreshing cocktails such as a Pimm’s Cup or a Peach Mojito. Prosecco is a light, fun way to ease into an evening and white wine sangria is a longtime summer favorite.

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WINE NOT Summertime Wine: From A-Z and Everything in Between

By Sean Dolenuck, Sommelier

W

ith summer settling in and BBQ’s firing up, the weather is hot, the lake is cool and outdoor dining is in its prime. Congratulations on surviving yet another harsh Manitoba winter! Summer is the perfect chance to celebrate outside, book a vacation, hang out at the lake or have a spontaneous picnic in the park. Whatever the occasion, summer wines are the perfect complement to all things warm and sunny.

From A comes Albarino

This gem of a white wine comes from the northern edge of Spain and delivers profiles very similar to a Sauvignon Blanc. Expect brilliant straw gold colours, refreshing acidity balanced with lemon and lime flavours, complemented with hints of green apples and grapefruit. I love to pair this white with a beachside meal of pan-fried pickerel, lemon and caper butter, spinach salad with fresh fruit and an orange vinaigrette, locally grown asparagus topped with lime and shaved parmesan cheese.

To Z for Zinfandels

Who can resist the sin of Zin on a summer day paired with friends and a grill? Zinfandel, also known as Primitivo from its homeland in Southern Italy, is an often misunderstood and underrated grape variety. I love the profile of a California Zinfandel. It delivers ripe jammy red and black fruits, delicate charred spice and pepper notes, finishing with layers of smooth vanilla and mocha coffee.

My favorite recipe to accompany a bottle of Zin is BBQ’d ribs rubbed with five spice and clover honey glaze, grilled peppers and pickled beets and a baked potato. Dinner is at 6, come on down!

Everything in Between

Some of my best summer moments come from backyard gatherings and modest summer picnics, a basket filled with simple foods such as bread, cheese, fruits, vegetables, cured meats and, of course, wine.

Depending on your wine profile, you might like full-bodied Chardonnays showcasing butter and oak, apple, pear, and tropical fruit flavours. Sunshine in a glass, this wine pairs nicely with a creamed cheese like Brie or Camembert.

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For a lighter style of white wine, no summer is complete without a crisp, fresh Sauvignon Blanc.

Grown all over the world, this grape delivers ripe passionfruit, lime sorbet, lemon grass, and striking acidity to rejuvenate your palate and cool you down as you nibble on ripe fruits and summer salads.

Conversely, hot temperatures and fire-stoked grills beckon a big, bold Malbec. This delicious red wine native of Argentina is always a crowdpleaser with smooth tannins and focused flavours of ripe plum, black fruits, chocolate and baking spices. Malbec always over-delivers in the price category and is sure to be a hit with thick, juicy steaks.

Picnics and Pinot Noirs go hand in hand. The light flavours of raspberry, cranberry, and refreshing acidity make this wine a natural with cured meats, spiced cheese, and pickled vegetables. If a picnic is not your thing, try a charcuterie board at a local restaurant; your taste buds will thank you.

Summer brings the simplest of flavours and cooking styles and can usually be complemented with the simplest of wines. Be imaginative.

Expand your profile, travel from A to Z or visit your local wine store consultant for a recommended summertime wine.

I usually make all my summertime wine decisions over a cold beer! It has not failed me yet, and I pass this wisdom to you.

Grab a beer, open some wine, get outside and seize a Manitoba moment. After all, summer only comes once a year. Cheers!

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PETS

TOUGH ON THE OUTSIDE

By Brandi Parnell

F

rom far away, they are a menacing pair, #14 and his dog Hercules that is. Anthony Peluso stands 6’ 3” tall and comes with a bit of a reputation for being a tough guy.

Ironically so too does his breed of dog.

Hercules is a well-groomed, dark and tan Rottweiler with a studded collar. If he could skate, you might mistake him for Peluso’s little brother. He is a 2-year-old Rotti with impeccable manners and shiny white teeth, thanks to Peluso’s fiancée Courtney, who used to work in a veterinarian office.

The Peluso family breeds rottweilers. Herc, as he is affectionately called, was one of 12 pups. Originally from Ontario, Anthony and Courtney seem to have settled in Winnipeg just fine. When the Peluso’s aren’t at the rink or trying out a new restaurant, they’re hanging out with their beloved dog. In fact, Herc wore a Jets jersey to watch Peluso and his teammates at an outdoor practice held at The Forks.

“If there is a breed of dog that most reflects my personality, it’s a Rottweiler,” says Peluso.

Tough, strong and loyal, Hercules exudes bravado.

This past year Peluso won Winnipeg’s hardest shot challenge at the team’s skills competition. One of his roles on the ice is bodyguard and he certainly patrols his wing with a rugged demeanor, but it’s Hercules Peluso’s 4-legged friend who man’s the fort when Anthony is on the road.

“He is a great protector,” Courtney smiles, although their

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relationship must be rather symbiotic. Hercules is one of the most remarkable dogs at the park. His coat is shiny and his stature noticeable. As a professional athlete Peluso has to invest in his health, so too do the Peluso’s when it comes to their dog.

Courtney ‘s commitment in Hercules’ health is obvious.

“It is important to me that Herc be seen by an AAHA accredited veterinarian. We feed him a hypoallergenic diet along with daily Omega 3,6, 9 supplements and fish oil. He also takes a probiotic and daily glucosamine.” How much exercise a dog needs to keep fit really does vary with the individual and its energy level.

Hercules is walked daily but tends to appreciate snuggling up at home almost as much.

“We sleep with him,” they laugh.

There is no doubt that Peluso and Hercules appear tough but even tough takes take it on the chin sometimes.

“It’s nice knowing when I come home from a game, good or bad that Herc’s there. He’s always happy.” That’s the magic of being in the company of dogs…they accept your flaws, your bruises, your losses. Herc is no exception.

Roger A. Caras said, “If you don’t own a dog, at least one, there is not necessarily anything wrong with you, but there may be something wrong with your life.”

As for Anthony Peluso, he is poised to live a great life as he fulfills his childhood dream of playing professional hockey, with his future bride and fellow tough guy at his side.

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PETS

Your Pet’s

All-InclusIve GetawaY

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Shawn Fillion

Like “walk” and “treat”, “camp” is becoming a word you will have to spell if your dog has ever stayed at Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp. Seriously – it’s that good.

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“C

lients tell me they have to spell ‘camp’ now because if their dog hears it, they get really excited,” explains Rob Sarrasin, owner Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp.

you’re on vacation. In the last four years, Sarrasin replaced every building on the property and added in an air purification system along with in-floor heating.

“Everything’s brand new, state-of-the-art and modern.”

Sarrasin started working for Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp when he was 13 years old. “I lived three houses down from Waldenway growing up,” says Sarrasin.

“And the previous owner offered me a job.”

Renovations aside, pet’s health and safety is taken seriously. Last October, a new Cat Cabin was built. The Cat Cabin plays relaxing music, which Sarrasin likens to spa music, and each individual cabin has a window that faces an outdoor bird feeder. “It keeps them stimulated and happy,” says Sarrasin.

A self-proclaimed animal lover, Sarrasin continued to work there as a kennel hand and even travelled to London, Ontario, for three months to take a grooming course at Pets Beautiful School of Styling. In 2001, Sarrasin bought the business where he now teaches those expert grooming skills to his staff at Waldenway.

Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp is the relaxing spa getaway for your pet while

The Cat Cabin is also built with multi-level shelves where cats can climb, sit, scratch pads or play with toys to keep them stimulated.

For dogs, they have bunkhouses with access to an outdoor run and five acres of land plus 12 park-like yards. “We let them out into the yard to get exercise and run

around four times a day. The dogs get lots of time to play and plenty of attention.”

Sarrasin recommends bringing pets to Waldenway— especially dogs—who would benefit from the extra attention that the Waldenway staff provide. “Dogs need a lot of exercise. I believe they get it here and are able to socialize with other dogs. Best of all they are given a lot of one-on-one attention — which is better than someone coming in once a day [to check up on them at home].”

It’s no wonder that dogs will often run back inside to say goodbye to each of the staff members when their owners arrive to pick them up.

Some dogs just naturally love being in the water. Waldenway also has a beach pond surrounded by sand for dogs that like to swim in warmer months. Sarrasin recalls a humorous situation where a dog wouldn’t

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come in when he was being called. “He just kept doing laps around the pond. We sent a canoe out to retrieve him.”

Sarrasin says Waldenway brings out the playful spirit in dogs. “They love playing with each other, making friends and running around in the yard.” Noting there have even been incidents where owners call him to say, “Their dog wants to come back to camp because he misses his friends!”

Naturally, the second time heading to Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp can be very exciting.

Waldenway offers a shuttle van to pick up pets — a sight that sends dogs skidding around the house as soon as they see the van pull up.

For a dog’s first time, Sarrasin says they try a number of tactics to make sure the dog feels comfortable and at ease after the owner leaves. “The ones who will go for treats are the easy ones,” he says. “But for the dog sitting in the corner, you just have to wait, sit there and talk in a happy voice to make sure they feel comfortable.”

“They may come from a shelter originally or have been rescued from a different situation — and those are the ones that take a little longer to earn their trust. But those are also the ones that are the most faithful afterwards and remember you.”

Waldenway maintains a profile of every canine and kitty that stays at camp through a custom built online system that tracks grooming, health concerns, weight, vaccinations and personalized notes, complete with the animal’s picture.

“It’s a profile of each animal which not only helps us, but also our pet owners. Sometimes they won’t notice a health concern and we will — so we’ll inform them.”

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All 24 of Waldenway’s employees take the St. Johns Ambulance Pet First Aid Courses and are knowledgeable and attune to every camper’s needs.

Of course though, it’s the love of animals that is most important to working there.

Waldenway’s Facebook page provides owners with updates and pictures of their pets through a message system. “We’ll post a photo of them playing or running around the yard and tag the owner in the status. We try to go above and beyond. Your pet is not just being dropped off.”

That also means feeding animals healthy premium pet food by NutriSource. “Clients will often come up to me and ask what we fed their dog because the coats shinier or the dog’s going to washroom more regularly,” says Sarrasin.

Waldenway sells the NutriSource Premium Pet Food, which is proven to be a good transition food as well.

Last fall, Waldenway started its grooming maintenance program for pets, which gives up to 30 per cent off all services and includes customized grooming for individual pets. Grooming is available Monday through Saturday by appointment.

To book your pet’s reservation online or to find out more information on Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp, go to www.waldenway.com. You can also call 204.422.8344 during office hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (seven days a week), but remember after you reserve your spot — only spell out the word camp.

Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp 33161 PR 210 W, Ste. Anne, MB 204.422.8344

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CREATING YOUR DREAM KITCHEN

By Courtney Tait Photos courtesy of Harm’s Kitchen Design

You’ve decided it’s time: the hub of your home needs a facelift. The cabinets are outdated, your flooring is uneven, and the fridge is a chaotic collection of items, impossible to keep organized on the cramped shelves. You dream of a kitchen that transitions seamlessly from a toast-andcoffee corner to a dinner-party prep zone. So where should you start?

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F

eeling and Function Before you begin bookmarking images of countertops and researching tile, tap into the emotion of the space.

How do you want to feel when you walk into your kitchen? Inspired? Relaxed?

Ready to entertain? The colours, layout and lighting can all impact your mood.

When you’re looking through kitchenthemed design sites, hone in on what draws you to certain decor, and what you don’t love about others. Does a minimalist theme give you instant calm, or does it feel too cold? Does a red wall excite you, or do you long for the zen-like look of simple white? Collect a sampling of visual ideas, and take note of the emotions they create; this can help drive decisions along the way.

Assessing the functional flaws of your current kitchen enables you to prioritize aspects of the redesign. What problems do you run into when you’re cooking? Is

there something you constantly need that’s in a hard-to-reach place? Where could you use more counter space? Start a list of pet peeves (or major annoyances) and keep it handy; every time a movement or task in the kitchen feels irritating, add it to the list. Your renovation is an opportunity to tweak what’s not working, and create a space that makes kitchen duty not just doable, but enjoyable.

Timely Trends A successful renovation should strive to balance classic elements with a few fresh trends. So what’s the latest in kitchen innovations? Pullout drawers are a must in an organized kitchen, and the newest versions have tiered storage, which compartmentalize your items. You’ll never have to search for the grater or garlic press again.

Depending upon your renovation budget, granite offers beautiful and timeless countertop options. Laminate countertops are also now available with larger stone patterns and a rounded edge, giving the look of granite for less. Wood countertops are gaining in popularity this year, giving kitchen islands a taste of tradition.

Free up space seamlessly with an undercounter microwave drawer. A bonus for families, they’re installed at a kidaccessible height, and equipped with safety locks for homes with toddlers. Want to incorporate colour in a fresh, fun way?

Sinks are available in options other than white and stainless — try a sage green or lemon yellow for an instant pop of personality. smarT appliances 2013 is a big year for the smart kitchen, with several advanced appliances becoming available.

Samsung has introduced a four-door smart refrigerator that offers recipes based on the contents. A 10-inch table is featured on the front of the fridge, loaded with apps to make meal planning easy. Grocery-list updates will appear on the mobile devices of your partner or other family members, eliminating forgotten items during shopping trips; expiration-date reminders ensure you’ll cut back on food waste.

Ever find the kettle a touch slow? GE offers a refrigerator that dispenses filtered hot water from its door. Called the Cafe French door refrigerator, it gives four

pre-programmed temperature settings accessed with an on-screen menu, so you can enjoy steaming hot soup or a cup of brewed tea at the temperature its meant to be served.

If you want to upgrade your oven to a smarter version, check out the Wolf E Series Ovens. These update you on preheat and timer status, and notify you when the dish inside has reached its optimal temperature — whether you’re at home or out. Connect with your home’s thermostat so that when the oven is on, the thermostat is lowered. You can even receive alerts when the oven is on, a helpful safety feature if you have kids. eco-Friendly Options One of the most popular ways to renovate sustainably is using salvageable materials from your current kitchen in the re-design. Changing out the cabinets? Consider using their wood for shelving in your island. Estate and yard sales are another excellent resource for finding materials that can be repurposed. If you’re using new materials

in your renovation, make sure they’re sourced domestically, minimizing the transport and energy required in their production.

LED lighting is essential in an ecofriendly kitchen. Various shapes, sizes and strengths are available, and they last 20 to 30 years, rather than less than a year as in the traditional incandescent bulb.

Are new flooring and/or cabinets on your priority list? Consider bamboo. The use of this fast-growing grass as a building material is easing the pressure on oldgrowth forests. Ensure it has formaldehyde levels far below the minimum requirements for a product that is truly green.

GeTTinG iT riGhT A kitchen renovation can be one of the most rewarding home projects you’ll undertake. Clarifying your vision before you start will make the process smoother and the outcome a success. The result? Gathering with family and friends to enjoy the primal elements of living: great food, drink and conversation.

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The Kitchen of Tomorrow

Andre Harms Harms’ Kitchen Manager Harms’ Kitchen Design 1643 St. James Street, Winnipeg 204.669.8811 andre@harmskitchen.ca harmskitchen.ca

B

eing a kitchen designer, I distinguish between two ways to “upgrade” a kitchen. One is to achieve a great look by choosing a combination of high quality products like fronts, hardware and countertops that work harmoniously with the space.

The other is to create the best workflow environment possible to ensure the storage space in every kitchen is optimally and ergonomically used.

W h aT funcTions are imporTanT aparT from good looKs? Good looks might impress at first sight, but it is much more important that the kitchen meets the user’s requirements in the long term. Often, it only becomes clear in daily use whether the kitchen was worth its price. Being “penny-wise and pound foolish” often means that what seemed to be a bargain has actually been a very poor investment. If you have to bend down to the dishwasher 10 times a day, the little extra you pay for an eye-level raised appliance

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TOP–A CLEAR CONCEPT: no wall units; a bench with storage space under the cooking island, planning in the direction of living and dining area. The block of the electiral appliances also contributes to the exclusive effect.

BOTTOM–LOTS IN A SMALL AREA: Everything that makes life pleasant is integrated here on just 172 square feet: ergonomically fitted electrial appliances, even a build in coffee machine and a flecible dining solution (the table can be pushed over the bench)

is actually not so bad. After going to the basement or garage for the third time, the idea of having additional storage space in the kitchen, perhaps in the form of extra deep pullout units, is extremely appealing.

WhaT maKes opTimal KiTchen design? The main question is, “How can I, as a designer, give my customers more than just short-term incentives to buy?” What I really want to do is offer a product that will please and satisfy customers for years to come. That is more important than a contemporary look. Hence, the focus is on the right ergonomics, an intelligent choice of materials, the best quality products and clever planning. After all, the kitchen is the centre of the home and family life.

WhaT is Key in a KiTchen? Light is a central, feel-good factor for people.

It is critical we have an adequate amount of it in our homes; this is especially vital in the kitchen, since it is not just used for cooking but for living, as well.

Light defines everything: plants need it for essential photosynthesis, and people need it for their well-being. Light structures our day, provides us with warmth and has the ability to lift our spirits. This is why it is so important in the kitchen; light is what turns the room for cooking into a room for living.

There are a lot of different lighting options in a kitchen. From toe-kick lights that illuminate the room from below, giving it more depth, to build-under lights that put the focus on a working area, to interior lights for cabinets that provide the right insight into drawers and wall units.

Harms’ Kitchen Design has the right lighting elements for any requirements.

By stylishly accentuating individual areas, we will give any kitchen an individual atmosphere. With the right light, not only is dining more enjoyable, but so is the preparation – and ultimately, the meal.

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Anchor Flooring

Elevate Your Style With What’s Underfoot

By Henny Buffinga Photos Shawn Fillion

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Q

uality flooring sets the tone for the entire home, laying a solid foundation for your own unique style to shine.

Finding someone who has an artistic flair and is also trustworthy, hardworking and reliable to work in your home is quite a feat, but Cory Giesbrecht of Anchor Flooring may be the guy you’re looking for. Offering quality installation of hardwood, stone and laminate flooring, Giesbrecht offers not only excellent craftsmanship but also unique designs and styles, as well.

Giesbrecht started his company in July of last year, but he has been installing floors and framing since he was 18. He got his start in this business by working with his brother, and then for his brother’s own company. When his brother sold his business to a larger company that does only commercial work, Giesbrecht

decided to go out on his own. He started getting calls from residential customers that he had worked with before. When he started Anchor Flooring he was booked solid for a month immediately with people that found him. “People kept my number, I guess,” he says with a laugh.

Today, he is a seasoned craftsman who found his passion installing beautiful custom floors for homeowners instead of working on impersonal large-scale projects. “I’ve been doing this for so long that I don’t want to do things the normal way,” he says. “Why not make something that looks really interesting by combining the wood and tile to make a unique design? I like doing things that no one else does.” If it means the difference between installing a plain square and creating a pattern, he doesn’t mind spending an extra day on the job.

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“I try to do simple things that make the floor look nicer than if someone just came in and installed it all the same,” he says.

“I just like to do subtle things that other people don’t really do, that add to the look of the floor when it’s all finished.” His care and attention to detail ensures the floors will not only look good, but will be done properly. “The quality of the installation is also very big for me,” Giesbrecht says. “I have a list of rules of what to do and what not to do for every installation, and I’m checking them off as I go.”

By combining wood, stone, stone tile and porcelain to designs and borders in the floor itself, Giesbrecht creates custom floors to suit his clients’ tastes. “I’ve had people tell me that their floor is like a piece of art,” Giesbrecht says. “They don’t even want to step on it after the installation is complete.”

Giesbrecht’s enthusiasm shows in his work.

“It’s Lego for adults,” he says. “It’s a game for me and I’m having fun with it.”

He works with prefinished wood, including oak and maple, which are standard in North America, as well as

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exotic woods like Brazilian wood, cork and bamboo. Exotic woods are harder, which make them more durable than regular wood, but it also takes more skill and care during installation. Giesbrecht recommends a cork laminate for places where you stand for long periods of time, such as at a kitchen sink, as the give in the wood makes it comfortable underfoot. Cork is also known for its noise reduction and allergy benefits.

Bamboo is an environmentally friendly choice, he says, because it grows so quickly. However, Giesbrecht will work with a wide rage of materials.

“Whatever my client wants,” he says. “I just try to make it look great.”

Giesbrecht likes to get to know his clients before taking a job to ensure they are comfortable with him being in their home, often while they aren’t home themselves. “I always try to relate to my customers, because my customers basically need to trust a stranger in their house while they are at work,” he says.

“I try to make sure they relate to me,

and if they don’t get me or my sense of humour, then they might just not like the work that I do. I want to make sure they like me first. I want them to see that I work hard and if I can see in their face that they are impressed, then I know it’s going to work.”

He has a great sense of humor, but he takes his job seriously. “I want them to know that if they hire me they will get someone who is honest and hardworking, and involved in what he is doing,” he says. “My ideal customer is someone who knows what they want, and is willing to listen to what is within reason to get it done properly.” One of Giesbrecht’s clients, Reynold Buhler, says, “Cory’s skill and craftsmanship brought new life to key spaces in our home, making them both attractive and functional.”

Renovations are a stressful time for everyone, and Giesbrecht is very conscious of that. “I want to be remembered for a good experience,”

he says. “I try to be very clean and respectful of my client’s space. I want it to be a stress-free experience for them.

It can be very hard for people to relax when their home is in disarray and nothing is where it’s supposed to be, so I try to make the process as smooth as possible. My cousin, whom I have worked for a couple of times, tells me that my tagline is ‘No worries!’ because apparently I say it all the time.”

The quality and unique nature of Giesbrecht’s work ensures his clients’ homes stand out. “If anyone has a crazy idea for a floor, I would be the guy to call,” he says.

To get your own unique floor, call Cory Giesbrecht at Anchor Flooring.

Anchor Flooring Ltd. 143 Bannerman Ave., Winnipeg 204.612.3954 cory.anchorflooring@gmail.com

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LIVABLE AND

Pretty

By Rebecca Henderson By Shelley Roy Photography

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C

reating rooms you love to live in is Wanda Vuignier’s passion. Her business is Designing Spaces MB.

Vuignier dreamt of being an interior designer since she was 16 years old. “I waited almost 30 years though,” she says, amusingly. Vuignier went back to school in 2005, enrolling in Red River College’s Residential Interior Decorator Program. A year later, she opened Designing Spaces Mb. “It is my passion — [when a room’s finished] I want people to walk into it and just feel like they never want to leave,” says Vuignier. Sometimes all a client needs is for her to come into their home for an hour or two to generate ideas and get them inspired. From colour consults to kitchen and bath renovations — Vuignier does it all. She will even shop for clients if they don’t have time to do so themselves.

Moreover, she finds it important to educate clients when it comes to design and planning. Vuignier compares decorating a room to a completing a puzzle. Each piece needs to fit. “You have to have a plan!” she says. “I often write plans for clients so that they can execute the project themselves. But there are a lot of things to know — and it can become overwhelming. That’s when a professional can help.”

One soon-to-be-retired couple has been working with Vuignier for six-and-a-half years redesigning the inside of their home. “They have a seven year plan,” she says. “They want to relax after they retire, so I’m working with them to create a modern haven.” Vuignier is very proud of this relationship because it’s been one that she aims to have with all her clients. “I try to, with every project, pay attention to the little things — making it truly feel like their home.”

When redesigning the interior of a room, Vuignier says people don’t have to throw everything out to create something new. “People are happy because I’ll try to come up with ideas to incorporate what the client already has. Hiring an interior decorator can actually save clients money in the end.”

Vuignier has been CDECA’s president for Manitoba since 2013 and is now also chair for CDECA National, a professional not-for-profit association that represents student and accredited interior decorators and interior designers, as well as affiliate businesses across Canada.

Vuignier also works with Budget Blinds as their drapery expert — a position she’s very excited about.

Quality products and reputable trades have made Vuignier a reliable and trusted designer for many people looking towards the future of their home. “A lot of my business is referral based,” she says whether its couples settling in, downsizing or empty nesters.

For pictures and further information on Designing Spaces Mb, visit designingspacesmb.com/design. “Before starting any redesign or remodel, make a plan,” says Vuignier. And if you need help getting it kick-started, or if you feel like you want someone else to take care of all of those little things, give Wanda a call at Designing Spaces.

RIGHT Wanda Vuignier

Designing Spaces Mb 1351 Leila Avenue Wanda Vuignier 204.990.1135 designingspacesmb.com/design

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ExpErt Advice A Structurally Sound Investment

Allan Asplin President

Judy Lindsay Team Realty 1919 Portage Avenue Winnipeg,MB R3J 0J3 Ph: 204-925-2900 Toll Free: 1-877-262-7072 Fax: 204-925-2912 www.judylindsay.com

I

t has been said that more millionaires are created through real estate investments than any other investment vehicle. So why don’t more people look at real estate as a way to create financial freedom? Based on my experience, there are two reasons why: either they feel it is not worth the risk or they are unable to come up with a down payment. What people don’t realize are the potential benefits of investing in real estate as part of a complete investment strategy.

The most common reason people don’t want to invest in real estate is because they don’t like the hassle of having tenants. Understandably, it can be stressful receiving calls about a leaky toilet, hearing

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of damage to the home, or worse yet — no rent. The way to avoid these situations is to hire a great property manager. For a fee of five to 10 per cent of the monthly rent, someone else will take care of everything from finding the right tenant to collecting the rent and maintaining the property.

Banks and mutual fund companies spend millions of dollars on advertising how easy it is to invest with them and how good your results can be. Certainly, investing with the banks or mutual fund companies has a place in a balanced portfolio.

However, most advisors never suggest real estate investment because it’s not in their area of expertise.

As a result, most people assume bonds, mutual funds and GICs are the only pathway to retirement or an education fund.

Unlike the aforementioned funds, investing in real estate doesn’t require a monthly deposit if you purchase the right property.

In fact, you may actually yield extra income while simultaneously increasing value and paying down the mortgage. Better still, after 15 to 25 years, you will own the house out right and you will have residual money coming in month after month.

People will always need a place to live and real estate is a great way to hedge against inflation.

The greatest challenge most people face is coming up with the down payment,

seeing as the majority banks require a 20 per cent down payment. By talking with a real estate advisor, you may realize your options, some of which are forming a partnership, using RRSP monies or by taking equity from an existing property.

Winnipeg’s strong economic base is sustained by: • its large diversity in economic sectors • less than 1 per cent vacancy rate • GDP growth of 3.3 per cent in 2013 • real estate prices expected to rise four to six per cent in 2014 Buying your first property can seem a lot harder than signing papers at a bank. However, working closely with a realtor that specializes in investment properties will make the process just as easy as investing in a mutual fund.

Understanding optimal geography and yields from different properties is key.

Everyone’s situation is different and so too are each person’s financial goals.

It is extremely important to talk to professionals, do your research, create a long-term financial plan and determine if real estate investment could help accelerate your ability to achieve your investment goals.

THE JUDY LINDSAY TEAM,

EXPECT MORE!

The award-winning Judy Lindsay Team of real-estate experts was created in 1995 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, with the goal of bringing a team-based approach to deliver the absolute best in customer service. The Judy Lindsay Team focuses on the buying and selling of commercial, residential and investment real-estate in Winnipeg and across Manitoba and consistently ranks as Number One! Gauranteed Sold Program – Your home guaranteed sold or we buy it!

Free Home Evaluations – what is your home worth? Find out now!

Smart Buyer Program – As a smart buyer, you get benefits that typical buyers don’t receive

Judy Lindsay Team Realty 1919 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB (204) 925-2900 theteam@judylindsay.com www.judylindsay.com

Opening Possibilities,

One Happy Customer at a Time

By Ryan Bowman Photos Shawn Filllion

A

fter a long and frigid Manitoban winter, prairie dwellers across the province are busy sprucing up their properties for summer. For those looking to give their homes a facelift without breaking the bank, Dean Murfitt of Garage Door Depot in Winnipeg says a new garage door can make quite a statement.

“The garage door is the new front door,” says Murfitt, who co-owns the company

with his wife, June. “Not only does it change the look of the garage, but it also adds beauty to the house as a whole.”

Since opening shop in the spring of 2013, Garage Door Depot has helped add beauty to more than 450 homes. And while Garage Door Depot offers everything from accessories to repairs to installation, the locally owned company specializes in customizing projects to suit the needs of each and every client.

“The great thing about this business is that you’re never going to walk into the same garage twice,” he says. “Each and every day is a new experience and a new challenge that’s what we love about it.”

The first step to securing the garage door of your dreams, Murfitt says, is a free inhome consultation to discuss everything from style and size to accessories and colour. With the company’s wide range of product lines – including Amarr, Haas, OPPOSITE PAGE June and Dean Murfitt

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Timber Valley, FrenchPorte, Silvelox and Liftmaster, the number one garage door opener in the industry.

Because each project is as unique as its owner, Murfitt says there are a few cutting-edge options that will set your garage apart from the neighbours. One, he says, is personalizing the door with unique handles, hinges or accessories from Garage Door Depot’s ever-increasing inventory.

Another popular trend is carriage-style doors, which feature three sections instead of four and vastly improve the look of an entire house.

“The Classica line is really gaining popularity,” Murfitt says. “The larger panels and larger windows change the look of the door drastically. People are surprised with how much light they let into the garage.”

In addition to their wide range of residential garage doors, Garage Door Depot also offers a wide array of commercial and industrial doors. The company also repairs all makes and models of garage doors and garage door openers, as well as installs car lifts and SwissTrax flooring.

But above all else, Murfitt says, Garage Door Depot prides itself on its lifetime guarantee and its quick and friendly service. Whether it’s a simple service call, a design consultation or the installation of a brand new garage door, Murfitt says it’s his company’s customer-centric approach that keeps customers coming back.

“We treat and serve the customer the way we would expect to be treated,” he says. “Making our customers happy is ultimately our No. 1 goal.”

Garage Door Depot Winnipeg 204.414.1055 1.877.333.2057 gdd-winnipeg@garagedoordepot.ca www.garagedoordepot.ca

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EXPERT ADVICE Weekends Weren’t Made for Cleaning

Cindy Dayman owner Take Time Home Cleaning & Lifestyle Services 204-770-7103 taketime.ca cindy@taketime.ca

P

eople clean for all sorts of reasons. Some people find it therapeutic, others feel satisfied seeing the end result.

But if you would rather spend your time outdoors maximizing summer, then there are some trusted ways to stay ahead of your house cleaning – which means more time at the beach.

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If you need inspiration to get your housework done, we have some suggestions. Blast your favourite music, remind yourself of the satisfaction that comes when you put your feet up in a spotless home and plan a special reward for a job well-done. A little elbow grease will go a long way to helping you get that house spic and span, but you don’t have to knock yourself out. Take breaks and try some of these handy tips from Winnipeg’s top cleaning service: ELIMINATE THE GREASE If you cook at home, grease will build up on your kitchen cabinets. It’s inevitable. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get rid of it.

Before cleaning the cabinets, make sure to heat a slightly damp sponge or cloth in the microwave for half a minute until it becomes hot. Then spray all the surfaces with your usual cleaning spray and wipe them down with the hot sponge. For those extra-stubborn spots, let the cleaner sit for a minute and fight that pesky grease. It should wipe off without any trouble.

KEEP SHOWER DOORS SPOTFREE We know a great trick for keeping shower doors clean and spot-free. Use glass cleaner, preferably auto glass cleaner

since it’s formulated to withstand and repel rain. After spraying the glass cleaner on the doors, dry them with a damp cloth.

The next time you use the shower, watch water and soap run off the glass.

USE MICROFIBER CLOTH Pick up some good-quality microfiber cloths. These cloths are great for so many purposes: drying dishes, wiping computer monitors, washing windows or even putting on your Swiffer. They’ve got ultrafine synthetic fibres that rub together during the cleaning process, creating a static charge that attracts dirt and dust.

We find these so much more effective than cotton cloths or paper towels.

ELIMINATE PET HAIR Put away the vacuum and get out man’s best friend: duct tape. Use a strip of tape to pick up pet hair and clean hard-to-reach areas like car seats and couch corners.

With a team of experienced cleaners, these tricks save time and effort, which ultimately means more summer days to spend outdoors.

Let us know how you make out and send your cleaning questions to cindy@taketime.ca to have them answered in our next Expert Advice column.

We offer many add on services such as: • Window interior exterior cleaning • Carpet and upholstery

• Mattress cleaning

• Yard care/ snow removal

• Hardwoods resurfacing

• Handyman

• Grout and tile and resealing

• Junk removal

Creating Free Time For Busy People.

Call 204.770.7103 or Toll Free 1.855.831.1713 www.taketime.ca See our website for more information

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Curbing the Standard

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Shawn Fillion

A

h o m e’s or b u s i n e s s’ landscaping requires constant upkeep, whether mowing, edging, or trimming to maintain that ideal look and curb appeal.

Colin Horan, owner of Solid Curbing wants to help save you time and money with decorative curbing.

Colin, who has been in the landscaping business since he was 16, wondered why

the industry standard for edging was a black plastic tube. “I was inspired by the machine and realized that Manitoba had a climate that would benefit from this type of system.”

Curbing is short for decorative stamped concrete edging. “Best of all, it is maintenance free,” says Colin. “All it needs is a reseal every few years.”

Manitoba’s ground shifts up and down

seasonally, which pushes plastic edging out of the ground. However, with curbing, it’s lined with galvanized wire and control breaks that stop curbing from showing cracks and move with the weather conditions.

Solid Curbing is now celebrating its fifth year in business and Colin doesn’t plan on deviating from this specialization. “We do this all the time because it’s not something

ABOVE Colin Horan (middle) and the solid curbing team

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you can do once a week—it takes time and practice to be good at it.”

Colin says curbing gives a nice clean look with instant curb appeal and is great for lining patios and driveways. “It can be a feature of your yard or very subtle in the background.”

While a client can choose colour and design, there are many different styles of curbing to choose from. One such style is the mower’s edge, which allows you to run your lawn mower wheel on it, creating a nice cleancut edge with no extra trimming needed!

Other styles are the angle curb and a variety of driveway liners, which can be used for residential and commercial properties or any landscape in need of a clean edge. Clients can also line curbing with a rope light to illuminate pathways, gardens, driveways and flowerbeds.

Furthermore, Colin says he’s proud to offer his customized Belgium Block which is a bolder design with curbing that is molded to look like individual stones. It comes in many colours and is easily fashioned to any layout or landscaping contours. “It mixes well with brick, too.”

Colin and his crew have a good eye for design and are often sought out by previous clients’ friends and family members who need Solid Curbing’s landscaping expertise. “We usually come back to the same neighbourhoods multiple times!”

Solid Curbing works with many different landscape businesses in the city and will direct you to the right landscaper for your projects. “The curb will not rot, rust, break or shift,” says Colin. Curbing is meant to last, but he offers a one-year warranty for peace of mind on all jobs.

Solid Curbing recently moved outside the city to accommodate his growing portfolio of clients. Listen for his ad on Maverick 105.1 and the BIG 106.7 in Southern Manitoba. “I want people in Southern Manitoba to know that we do work outside of the city too.”

Give him a call at 204.688.6215 or visit online at www.solidcurbing.com — all estimates and consultations are free.

Solid Curbing 204.688.6215 www.solidcurbing.com

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Quality Service

H O N EST ADVI C E

By Tonya Lambert Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

B

lind Shiners is the place to go for top-quality blinds and draperies in Winnipeg. Throughout its 22 years in business, Blind Shiners has garnered a reputation for its dependable, honest service and high-end products at reasonable prices.

Specializing in customized blinds and draperies for both residential and commercial buildings, Blind Shiners carries only top-of-the-line products, including Shade-o-Matic, Maxxmar Window Fashions, Blinds By Vertican, Habitat Blinds and Hunter Douglas blinds.

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Pricing on their Hunter Douglas blinds are second to none and their Shade-oMatic NHL roller blinds are much sought after. Numerous blinds, from silhouettes to luminettes, concept rollers to cellulars, as well as a wide selection of parts and accessories can be viewed in the company’s immaculate storefront showroom.

Blind Shiners has a wide array of fabrics to create customized draperies and bed coverings that turn their clients’ homes into beautiful and unique works of art.

With so many exceptional fabrics from Altex, Avant Garde, J. Ennis, Joanne,

Maxwell, Signature, Soletex, Unique and Western Fabrics, Blind Shiners has something for everyone. In addition to draperies and bed coverings, Blind Shiners can also re-upholster your chairs, sofas and chaise lounges.

Blind Shiners has recently teamed up with Kelsey Kosman of Dollhouse Design.

Kelsey, a fully-trained and experienced interior decorator and designer, provides Blind Shiners’ customers with free inhome consultations to help them select the perfect style and colour of window treatments to suit their home, lifestyle and

Customers Ken and Gweneth originally thought that they needed to replace their old blinds but decided get them cleaned instead. “Getting our blinds cleaned saved us a lot of money,” said Gwenth.

“Blind Shiners’ service was quick and professional. Our blinds look brand new!”

Blind Shiners’ reliability, integrity and dedication have earned them many repeat customers and referrals. As Brenda, a satisfied customer, explained, “I appreciated the superb service, expertise and knowledge of having Blind Shiners’ owner, Gord Buczko, and his team come to my country home to do all the measuring and installation. Blind Shiners provided me with excellent, knowledgeable and prompt service; it was a very positive experience.”

budget. Kelsey is also available to provide further interior design advice through her own company, Dollhouse Design. You can trust Kelsey and all the staff at Blind Shiners to give you honest advice; they won’t hesitate to recommend a less expensive option if they believe it to be the best fit.

Blind Shiners are experts at installing, repairing and cleaning all makes and models of blinds. Customers can drop their blinds off at the store to be cleaned or arrange to have the friendly, uniformed staff at Blind Shiners come by in a marked vehicle to pick up the blinds and drop them off after they have been cleaned. Blind Shiners uses environmentally friendly, biodegradable cleaning products and the advanced Ultrasonic cleaning system, where millions of transducer bubbles work to remove stains, allergens and the smell of smoke from all components of the blinds. The rinse cycle lubricates the blinds, improving their function.

Contact Blind Shiners for a free consultation and quote today.

Blind Shiners 835 Marion Street Winnipeg, MB 204.231.3880 gord@blindshiners.com www.blindshiners.com Dollhouse Design 204.782.8610 info@dollhousedesign.ca www.dollhousedesign.ca |

Roller Shades • Concept Rollers • Pleated Shades Cellular Shades • Horizontals • Verticals • Drapery

Custom Blinds for Every Budget Blind Shiners has been supplying customers with the finest in custom blinds and draperies from top manufacturers for more than 20 years

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM at 835 Marion Street 204.231.3880 | www.blindshiners.com

NEVERCOMPROMISE

NEVERCOMPROMISE NEVERCOMPROMISE

MARIC HOMES

339-2035 • marichomes.com

339-2035 • marichomes.com

339-2035 • marichomes.com

MARIC HOMES

MARIC HOMES

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A Home to

Complement a Lifestyle

By Nicolle Hodges Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

N

o matter what stage of life, buying or selling a home is not just an adjustment; it’s a complete lifestyle change – one that Cyndy Erickson wants to help you achieve comfortably. With nine years in the real estate industry, Erickson spent some time working as an associate broker before moving on to own Lifestyles Real Estate Ltd., where she serves as a realtor and broker.

With her added experience as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, Erickson is able to

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help clients find that perfect home, be it the elderly seeking a comfortable place to age, or first-time homebuyers with plenty of questions on how to make the big jump.

“Whether one is upsizing or downsizing, there are financial and emotional ramifications attached to the act,” says Erickson. “We are well-informed, reliable and patient; we will provide you with information and options that will assist you in making the decision for your next lifestyle change. And, no matter what you

decide, we will be supportive.”

“If we are dealing with clients as a Senior Real Estate Specialist®, they know that we are here as a resource, not necessarily to help them buy and sell a home, but to provide information with regards to resources that might allow them to stay in their homes.” However, if moving is ultimately the client’s decision or their last option, Erickson is there to provide them with resource information to help them downsize or look at options, such as

properties with amenities or assisted living.

There are certain traits Erickson says she strives to live by, some of which include trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, care and citizenship. As most of her current business comes from past clients and referrals, her reputation in the industry is reflective of those qualities.

“If you are a buyer looking for a home, I want you to love what you buy and if it takes a year or two, that’s okay with me,” says Erickson. “We will look and look because I want you to be in love with your home and be more than satisfied with the service and information that you receive from me.”

Erickson wears many hats in order to accomplish all the tasks required to drive the business. As a realtor, she helps her clients with purchasing new and resale homes and condos, and she assists with all matters of commercial business, including buying, selling or leasing property. As a broker, she manages the office, reviews trades, confirms timelines are met from the accepted offer through to possession, and many other daily tasks.

It is through her knowledge and versatility that Erickson demonstrates one of her biggest strengths: compassion for all stages of the home buying and selling process.

Her number one priority is ensuring her clients are served well and feel comfortable asking as many questions as necessary.

“They can take their time so that in the end they love, love, love their new home,” says Erickson.

“We are small and we do good business,” says Erickson. “I go above and beyond for all of my clients and the realtors that work with me.”

Lifestyles Real Estate Ltd. E 730 St. Anne’s Road 204.421.SOLD cyndyerickson@live.com www.lifestylesrealestate.ca

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C reatin g a S paC e

that’s Meant for You

By Tobie Hainstock Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

A

t Charisma, the design experience making your home or office fit your sense of style is top priority. No matter what stage you are at with your build or renovation, you can count on the team at Charisma to help you find what you need. “We will assist our clients with the design of their homes from concept to

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completion,” notes Kim Schroeder, owner.

If it is guidance at the early stages of the project, or a consultation about finishing touches, you can trust Schroeder’s keen eye and many years of expertise to give your home pizzazz.

Start Early Although many don’t think of it, hiring an interior designer at the beginning of your project can save you

a lot of time and money. “People often call us too late,” says Schroeder, “by getting us involved right at the onset we can review the floor plan with you and advise what best fits your lifestyle.” When thinking about it, it makes perfect sense to have an interior designer advising from the start.

An interior designer can assist in creating a dwelling that’s very functional, but also

incorporates decor that reflects your style.

Your home is your greatest investment, it only makes sense that you want it looking and functioning optimally.

GEttinG to Know you! To assist with this, the design team will sit down with you and learn about your tastes, hobbies, careers and other important characteristics that will help transform a new space into the home of your dreams!

“We are in constant communications with our clients through our online project management and concept boards,” says Schroeder. The concept boards document the choices made by the clients and help to keep everyone on the same page.

She explains that an online accounting program is also available for clients to log into to check the status of their account and where their money is being allocated.

“It’s about being accountable to our customers from start to finish.” a HEaltHiEr SpacE As Schroeder continues to grow and develop in her field, she has become increasingly aware of the need for creating healthier solutions for the home or office. “This could be as simple as installing a water filter system, decluttering, adding a small gym or creating a tranquil place” she advises.

“The focus is on constructing a mentally and physically cleaner environment.”

For upcoming advisement about how to

implement a healthier environment, check out the Charisma website. tHE ultimatE Goal Schroeder and her team acknowledge that the end goal is about a look or style that speaks to the home or business owner. “I want people to walk in and feel right at ease,” she comments, “I want their home to be an expression of who they are and what they like.”

ABOVE Kim Schroeder, owner

Charisma, the design experience 388 academy road Winnipeg 204.487.6994 charismadesign.ca

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Screened in Comfort

Kim Schroeder, BID Owner and Principal Architectural Interior Designer

Charisma, the design experience 388 Academy Road Winnipeg 204.487.6994 www.charismadesign.ca

QueStion:

W

of the space?

e are planning to add a screened room to the back of our home. How can I make the best use

AnSwer: A screened room or porch is a necessity for every home in Manitoba.

We suffer through long winters, only to get chased back into our home by the bugs.

Here are 10 recommendations for a bugfree zone: 1. Make the room as large as possible so you have multiple options on for space. If you don’t have room for both a comfortable lounging area and a dining area, you could combine both by using a cocktail table that rises up to dining height. In this photo, we used a built-in

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bench with sofa cushions as the seating on two sides, which allows for maximum use of the space — a seated dining area that is comfortable enough for Sunday afternoon naps. Consider an outdoor kitchen space with an exhaust fan over the BBQ, rather than forcing the chef to cook outside with the bugs!

2. For walls, I recommend doing a floor to ceiling screen. Don’t cut off your view or outdoor exposure with a partial wall. If you want some protection from the elements, consider a product called Weatherwall, which are retractable vinyl windows that allow for flexibility on how you open and close the windows for maximum screen exposure.

3. Depending on your sun exposure, you might consider a thermoclear product for the ceiling and roof. It is available in either a clear or translucent finish and allows for maximum daylight exposure. However, if you have southern exposure and no trees, this might be too much light and heat.

4. If one or two walls back onto your home, make these walls a feature. Add some texture with stone cladding, textured mdf - medium-density fibreboard panels or wood panelling In the photo, we use stone in the dining area and a wall of twigs in the kitchen area. Enhance the texture with uplighting to create a soft ambiance in the room.

5. Soft lighting creates a comfortable, soothing environment. Generally, I don’t recommend a centre light fixture but if it is the chosen option, add a dimmer.

Use indirect wall or ceiling light fixtures, uplights or downlighting on your feature wall; and of course, lots of candles!

6. Use outdoor fabrics which can withstand the elements and are resistant to fading and mildew; they are worth the investment.

Consider a neutral palette for the basic items and then accent with coloured toss pillows, dishes and accessories that you can change with the season or the night.

7. To maximize the use of the space, install radiant heaters to prolong the seasons.

Even on a cool summer night you can use the space with heaters. Put each one on its own switch so you can control the heat.

8. The flooring in the space can simply be the decking, but could also be finished in porcelain or stone tiles to withstand our cold winters, or outdoor carpeting.

Outdoor area rugs are available to use with any of the hard flooring options.

9. Personalize the space with accessories that work with your theme. A fountain adds a Zen feel, as do candles for a country romantic theme. Bring plants indoors.

10. Enjoy your new bug-free zone.

This space might be the envy of the neighbourhood and keeping the neighbours out might be your new problem!

Experience fire in new ways in nearly any room!

Revo Series

Wall-hung Gas Fireplaces The REVO Series comes in square, horizontal and vertical models.

Slender, 7-inch deep profiles can hang on the wall, or be recessed in-wall – for installation in nearly any room. Stunning design and efficient heat output have never been this simple.

204-943-5263

318 LOGAN AVE. (JUST OUTSIDE CHINATOWN)

FREE CUSTOMER PARKING

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Comfort and Style

By Rebecca Henderson

L

ocated in the characteristically beautiful Exchange District is BauKorb Outdoor Furniture — a European-inspired outdoor wicker furniture boutique.

At BauKorb, the furniture is German engineered and designed with elegance.

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The history of Germany’s engineering pedigree is world-renowned and this heritage is reflected in the impeccable structural design and integrity found in every piece of BauKorb furniture.

Customers may intuitively understand they are not just purchasing a set of

furniture, but an ethos of excellence.

Before opening BauKorb, the owner spent many years in product development and by 2010, established industry connections in Germany. In 2011, BauKorb Outdoor Furniture became a reality with a vision to create contemporary and comfortable, high-

rain, snow, heat and cold while maintaining its chic and pristine look year after year.

This is because the frames are made of heavy-gauge, fully-welded, powdercoated aluminum and the wicker is UVrated to 5,000 hours, which is the highest designation in the industry. BauKorb uses cushions that are made with top-quality foam and layered in changing densities. The cushions are then hand-shaved and encased in a highly water-resistant, breathable membrane for easy maintenance and peace of mind. The cushions are then finished with luxurious solution-dyed fabrics, which not only look beautiful, but are also protected against stains and fading.

design furniture that’s built to withstand North America’s weather elements.

BauKorb’s warehouse and corporate offices are based in Winnipeg, Man., which means each piece of furniture is built with the city’s extreme weather conditions in mind.

BauKorb furniture is made to withstand

BauKorb’s wicker furniture utilizes the highest quality materials available in the industry and is built to meet the expectations the luxury outdoor furniture industry demands in North America.

Furthermore, the furniture is constructed to be comfortable, with everyday use in mind.

BauKorb’s designs are fashion-forward and contemporary, as the furniture pieces have European-inspired profiles that reflect the furniture’s design origins. However, BauKorb also aims to find equilibrium between comfort and style.

BauKorb carries many styles, taking influence from Europe while modernizing and creating a luxurious outdoor space for

customers. One such style is the Mallorca, a five-piece set with dark brown wicker and tanned cushions, reminiscent of a relaxing vacation in the Spanish islands.

The Hampton, also a five-piece set, with a white wicker frame, sharp, saturated blue cushions, open glass side tables and a coffee table reflect the airy and lavish lifestyle enjoyed by Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

BauKorb styles with customers in mind who live an active lifestyle and enjoy spending time in an outdoor space, be it a beautiful backyard patio or balcony.

Other styles in the 2014 collection include the Genevieve, the Mont Royal, the Munich, the Oasis, the Kihei and the Sheko — an uber modern two-piece set with lounging white wicker chairs. For more information on these sets and others, the catalogue is available online through BauKorb’s website, www.baukorb.com.

To view the collection in person and experience the beauty and strength of BauKorb Outdoor Furniture, you are invited to stop by their showroom gallery in Winnipeg’s Exchange District. You can also arrange to have a private viewing that accommodates your schedule.

BauKorb Outdoor Furniture 296 McDermot Ave. Winnipeg, Manitoba 204.979.1613 info@baukorb.com

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Keeping Your Summers Enjoyable and Mosquito-free

By Tori Stafford

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anadians coast to coast will agree — our summer season is precious; it’s a time when we covet being outdoors with friends and family, enjoying nature and all it has to offer.

But one thing summer brings that is not so well liked which can truly affect the enjoyment of our short-but-sweet warm weather, is the dreaded mosquito. These summertime ‘tourists’ wreak havoc on our enjoyment of the outdoors, and live up to the label we give them as being ‘pests’.

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Enter Kevin Meilleur, Lyle Rouse and the team at Mosquito Tech. Using a product approved by Health Canada that is both child and pet-friendly, Mosquito Tech can treat backyards, commercial properties and even special event spaces to keep the mosquitoes at bay, and your enjoyment of the season alive and well.

Employing techniques the company developed with none other than Taz Stuart, former entomologist for the City of Winnipeg and local mosquito guru, the Mosquito Tech team approaches each

property and its treatment in a unique way to ensure the best results — leaving your space not only free of mosquitoes, but also helping to reduce the frequency and numbers of other pests as well, Meilleur explains.

“We worked with Taz over the winter season, and he helped us to establish effective methods,” Meilleur says, noting Stuart was incredibly impressed with the procedures Mosquito Tech employs.

“When we come [to a property], we first find all of the vulnerable areas where mosquitoes are going to reside — under

your deck, under your shrubs, under your eaves, anywhere there is water. We treat those areas first.”

The team from Mosquito Tech then does a perimeter treatment, which is perhaps the most important step for ensuring effectiveness, Meilleur says. This perimeter treatment acts as a barrier, repelling mosquitoes from the treated area. Not only does the treatment kill all mosquitoes on contact, and any that come in contact with treated areas, the barrier keeps mosquitoes from coming in by affecting the pests’ central nervous system, which makes them turn back before even reaching the area, explains Meilleur.

“Once you create that perimeter barrier, you’re almost making your home virtually mosquito-free,” he says, noting this can help reduce concerns about the spread of West Nile virus, as well. “I’ve talked to people after they’ve had [a treatment] for the first time, and they’re saying ‘it’s one of the best things I’ve ever paid for.’”

A treatment from Mosquito Tech takes about 45 minutes to apply, and will last 21 days or more. It helps “give people their backyards back,” Meilleur says, and is also incredibly effective after one-time applications for outdoor events, such as weddings.

“You don’t want uninvited guests at your wedding,” he says with a laugh. “And our summers are so short, it’s nice to be able to sit out on the deck, have family and friends over, and enjoy an evening instead of being chased inside at dusk. We are here to help people enjoy their summers.”

Mosquito Tech 6-521 Golspie St. Winnipeg 204.654.3971 info@mosquitotech.ca www.mosquitotech.ca

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Enjoy the Outdoors from the Comfort of Home

By Henny Buffinga

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Northwestern Ontario. Suncoast offers three custom products — a louvered roof, a screen room, and a three-season room. Each product comes with distinct benefits to suit their customers’ needs.

“You’re surrounded by the outdoors without the distractions,” says Scott Benson, owner of Suncoast Manitoba and regional manager of Suncoast Enclosures in Manitoba and

If you’re looking for some shade while sitting outside, the louvered roof has the appearance of a pergola, a common feature in gardens or outdoor sitting areas. A pergola faces east to west and blocks direct sunlight from those seated beneath, while remaining open to the sky. The louvered roof offers the same look, but with the touch of a button it can close the slats to

here’s nothing quite like the great outdoors. But when it comes to inclement weather, insects and other irritants, enjoyment can quickly turn into frustration. Suncoast Enclosures has the answer. With their aesthetically pleasing and durable sunrooms, they promise homeowners outdoor enjoyment — from inside the comfort of their own home.

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block out rain with a tight seal. “It allows you to close it up and keep the furniture dry,” says Benson. “It’s a nice feature for the front of the house or over a patio.”

If you’re looking for an extension that brings the outdoors into your home, the screen rooms offer more protection from the elements without closing the room off with glass. “Our rooms are bright and open, which sets us apart from our competitors,” says Benson. “We have a high tension screen that is by far the strongest screen on the market. It’s an open room, but it’s also safe at the same time.”

The polycarbonate roof allows 95 per cent of light into the room, while filtering the glare and heat from the sun. Even on overcast days the polycarbonate gives off a glow that creates an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. The lightweight aluminum frames can also be custom powder coated in hundreds of different colours, and even anodized to match existing elements.

“Screen rooms are a great option to place over a hot tub or pool,” he adds. “They keep the leaves and debris out of the water without closing it off from the sun or rain.”

The best thing about the screen rooms is you can watch the stars and enjoy the breeze without the irritation of insects.

These rooms utilize the high-tension screens as the roof panels, which are engineered for harsh Manitoba winters.

The third product is the three-season room.

They are the perfect sunroom, offering an open, bright space with 75 per cent ventilation with the windows open, and an extended enjoyment of the seasons when they are closed. Three-season rooms are often prewired for electricity, meaning you can have lights, fans, and even fireplaces added to the room so it can be enjoyed as much as possible throughout the year. “As with all of our rooms, they’re all custom built,” Benson says. “Many people find that

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they can use the rooms for nine months of the year with a small heat source.”

Screen rooms can also be turned into three season rooms with the simple addition of windows, giving you the ultimate flexibility if you aren’t sure what is right for your space and needs. Depending on the regulations of your municipality, three-season rooms can also be built on existing decks, without having to pour concrete foundations.

Benson and his cousin began working with Suncoast for a summer several years ago, and fell in love with the products. Now as the owner of Suncoast Manitoba, he continues the family connection with his brother as foreman on the building crew, and his sister helping with trade shows.

Benson and his crew pride themselves on offering an excellent experience for their customers. “We provide prompt and reliable service; we do it right the first time,” he says. “We always spend the extra time to get it done right. We don’t take shortcuts,

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and in the end we just want the customer to be satisfied. These are values I instill in everybody that works with us.”

“An advantage to our service is flexibility,” continues Benson. “We build every room on site, so we can accommodate a second-storey balcony, a bay window, multi-level decks, or protruding rooflines. We are always looking forward to accommodating the unique challenges that each job possesses.”

They can even adjust for low hanging rooftops. “We have a structural gutter system that will actually increase our roofs in elevation from the structure of the house,” says Benson. “A lot of houses have low overhangs, and people don’t even consider sunrooms because they don’t think it would work. If a house is 8 ft., we can have a 10 ft. sunroom, which creates a nice room with volume instead of feeling like an enclosed space.”

Suncoast Enclosures commonly have a mansard roof style, setting them apart from the classic shed style sunroom that becomes very low in the middle of the room. The mansard roof is sloped, and the look blends well with most styles of home.

“This gives our enclosures an aggressive and clean look,” says Benson. “They are like no other sunroom on the market.”

Suncoast Enclosures are an excellent addition to any home or business, and Benson has happy customers all over Eastern Manitoba, Winnipeg and Northwestern Ontario. “I would definitely recommend not only Suncoast, but your company because of the integrity of your work and your level of service. I already have done so to many people,” says Heather White, a Suncoast client in Winnipeg. “I love having the extra useable living space, outside — unaccosted by the bugs, even in rainy weather and earlier/later in the season.”

In addition to the showrooms available in West Hawk Lake, MB. and Clearwater Bay, Ont., Benson has a new showroom at St. Mary’s Nursery & Garden Centre in Winnipeg. These are available for viewing anytime, or by appointment with Benson.

To book a viewing, contact Suncoast Manitoba today.

Suncoast Manitoba Box 136, West Hawk Lake, Manitoba www.suncoastenclosures.com |

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Making Lawns Pristine For Years to Come With Perfect Turf -

No Mowing, No Watering, No Maintenance

By Tonya Lambert Photos Shelley Roy Photography

E

veryone loves the look of a wellmanicured yard and nothing says summer quite like a lush green lawn. Though relaxing in the backyard is a great way to unwind, few people enjoy the maintenance that comes with keeping a lawn at its best. With one simple call to Perfect Turf, homeowners can have a well-maintained and vibrant lawn year-round with Perfect Turf synthetic grass.

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Neighbours will remark at the beauty of a pristine lawn without mowing, fertilizing, weeding and reseeding — that is what makes Perfect Turf so appealing to homeowners, builders and commercial property owners alike. “There are never enough hours in a day. The last thing I want to do on a sunny day is cut the grass. I would much rather spend time playing with my kid,” says Sergey Kolesnik of Perfect Turf.

“In a world where time is money, how would you rather spend your time?”

On top of aesthetic appeal, Perfect Turf also has some unique environmentally friendly benefits. Environment Canada estimates the average homeowner

Sergey Kolesnik of Perfect Turf

consumes 14,000 litres of water annually for lawn care. Artificial grass requires no watering at all. Saving water not only benefits the environment, but also reduces a costly monthly water bill. According to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, a typical gas powered lawn mower emits as much air pollution annually as a car driven halfway across the country. Perfect Turf also drains precipitation quickly allowing rainwater back into the water table with the added bonus of a freshly cleaned lawn.

To ensure the highest quality product, Perfect Turf is fade proof with an ultraviolet coating throughout the blades. The artificial grass features a unique thatch fibre that

keeps the blade standing up right providing a more natural look in a variety of shades of green and blade heights. “Our Supersoft™ fibre technology enhances the feel of the artificial grass while still ensuring durability and overall integrity,” notes Kolesnik.

This combination of strength and beauty makes Perfect Turf ideal for sports fields, playgrounds and even personalized putting greens in the backyard for the avid golfer.

Pet owners love the product because it is built tough, avoiding costly pet damage and mud being tracked in the house by furry family members.

Perfect Turf offers clients the flexibility of installation by the pros or a do-it-yourself kit for those who enjoy putting in a little

elbow grease. Whether a homeowner is hands-on or hands-off, Perfect Turf lives up to its name. Originally developed in the United States, the product was tailored specifically for our unique Canadian climate, maintaining a perfectly green appearance for decades to come. Take the work out of yard work and spend more time with the people you love this summer.

Protime Group 204.488.0198 976 St Mary’s Road, Winnipeg www.perfectturfgrass.com www.protime.ca

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GREAT PEOPLE DESERVE

GREAT REALTORS

By Ryan Bowman Photos courtesty 204Homes.ca

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eBetween stocks and bonds, mutual funds and savings accounts, Winnipeggers can have a difficult time deciding how to invest their hardearned dollars.

the industry. In addition to owning and managing more than a dozen rental properties in the past decade alone, he has attained his brokerage license and began a building company called Lux Custom Homes Ltd.

The solution, says Sean Kirady of 204Homes.ca, is real estate.

“One of the things I love most about this job is being able to teach people about the mistakes that I’ve made and help them avoid them,” he says. “I can advise them on everything from building permits to writing up an offer to updating the plumbing.”

“Throughout my investment career, which spans about 15 years now, I’ve made more money in real estate than any other investment,” says Kirady, who bought and flipped his first home at the age of 23. “One could argue the market has been particularly strong over that time, but the bottom line is that people will always need housing.”

Simple as it seems, it’s a philosophy that Kirady has built his career on — and a rather successful one, at that.

Born in Montreal, Kirady spent time in Vancouver and Calgary before settling in Winnipeg in 1999. In addition to working full-time in the airline industry, he and a business associate began buying and renovating multi-family properties, which they either rented out or flipped for profit.

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If it’s his experience that attracts the clients, Kirady says it’s his customer service that keeps them coming back.

Whether it be a first-time buyer, a senior looking to downsize or an ambitious real estate mogul, Kirady says he treats everyone the same.

He’s approachable and down-to-earth. “I wear jeans and a suit jacket, because that represents who I am.

I am professional and goal-oriented but I’m also friendly and easygoing.”

By 2006, Kirady had decided to take his interest in real estate to the next level and joined the team at Royal LePage Dynamic Real Estate. 10 years, multiple awards and hundreds of property listings (and sales) later, he has become one of the city’s most prolific — and most respected — real estate agents.

And honest.

Accolades aside, Kirady says one of the reasons he has gained so much respect is his hands-on experience in

“Instead of looking for a quick sale, I want a lasting relationship with the client,” he adds. “At the end of the

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“When people are selling, I always tell them not to pick the agent that promises them the moon,” Kirady says.

“I don’t gloss things over with pie charts and prettycoloured graphs. I look them in the eye and I tell them what I think.

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LEFT 39 Lardon Court in Royalwood RIGHT 321 Kelvin Blvd. in Tuxedo

day, I don’t sell houses. I sell my service.”

Part of that service, Kirady says, includes studying the market and advising his clients accordingly. Lately — thanks to what he calls prolonged market growth in Winnipeg — that advice has been to buy, buy, buy.

“We’ve always been stable, but with big players like IKEA, Target, and the Winnipeg Jets joining the city — and others like Whole Foods contemplating coming here — it’s the right place and the right time to invest.”

Another reason Winnipeg is a particularly attractive market, he says, is the steady escalation of property values over the past decade.

“Only 10 years ago, I would be hard pressed to find more than a handful of million-dollar properties, now we have hundreds,” he says. “That shows an appreciation for the quality of home Winnipeggers are seeking.”

What about those who can’t afford to scoop up rental properties across the city? Kirady says investing in real estate can also apply to homes you already own — or even live in.

“Investing in improvements on your own principle residence is also fruitful, especially because gains on

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primary residence investments are tax-free,” he says. “That means more money in your pocket.”

Anticipating a busy summer, Kirady recently added Ryan Jones to his 204Homes.ca team, which already included Kirady’s wife, Renée. Jones was a perfect fit for the team bringing with him many years of customer service and many great client relationships. The addition, Kirady says, has only made the team stronger.

“We work as a unit, not as three individuals,” he says. “Everything from our ‘For Sale’ signs to our advertising projects an image of approachable, friendly guys who are good at what they do.”

Royal LePage Dynamic Real Estate - Sean Kirady #3 – 1450 Corydon Avenue 204.813.0242 info@204homes.ca www.204homes.ca |

“At the end of the day, I don’t sell houses.

I sell my service.”

Bill Frovich Electric can help with all your Winnipeg Electrician needs.

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Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Electrical Design for New Home Construction Complete Rewire for Home Renovations and Service Upgrades Insurance Inspections and Recommendations Up-front Pricing and Free Estimates Scheduled Appointments Electrical Repairs and Maintenance

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204.955.0030

bill@billfrovichelectric.com www.billfrovichelectric.com

t u r n I n g Yo u r

Passion Into a

Business

By Trina Annand

I

t’s an age-old question: should you do what you love or what will garner the biggest paycheque? Many people today are realizing the potential to do both and are casting off corporate life to pursue their dream career.

Both seasoned professionals and Millennials alike are experiencing a disenfranchisement with the traditional modes of employment. In today’s economy, there is no safety net; no job that one can settle into for a lifetime. This reality calls for people to become more flexible and versatile. As a result of this new reality, people are looking for more control and see the value of turning their passion into a business of their own.

The first step to successful entrepreneurship is understanding the market. Like any successful venture, it is important to plan well in advance before quitting your day job. It is very important to do your research, and to know the viability of a business before you become too financially invested.

Making a profit is what separates a business from a hobby. Looking at economic statistics for a chosen area, but also polling potential clients bases can mean the difference between success and failure. Making the strongest possible business plan will not only make securing funding easier, but provide a valuable compass for tough economic times, as well.

Many first time entrepreneurs have a “do it all” mentality, which can cause future problems. Assuming you can handle every facet of the business often ends in

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frustration, because there is no possible way a person can be passionate about every single aspect of a business. As a result, certain things tend to fall by the wayside. Using a team approach ensures each part of a fledgling business has the passionate person it deserves. If you are able to develop a team before starting the business, planning for the future can reach an entirely new level, producing a more balanced approach.

For those more cautious about following their passion, a part-time approach might make more sense. Creating a side business allows entrepreneurs the chance to better understand the ins and outs of their chosen field. There are a wide number of support systems and entrepreneurial non-profits that can help people learn the ropes of starting their own business. Like any endeavour, learning is an important part of the process. If a person has an idea or product rather than a business plan, crowd-funding ventures like Kickstarter can provide valuable insight, funding, and even customers, depending on where you live.

Not every venture is a success from the start. It is important to remember that starting your own business takes time, dedication and passion. It can be difficult to develop a life/work balance when pursuing your passion as a career, but you should keep in mind that the time you once allocated to a hobby is now your job. If you do what you love, there is more emotional value to your work, making it seem like you are earning more along the way.

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EXPERT ADVICE Pricing the Value of Advice

L Kelly Hemmett B.A., CFP Certified Financial Planner khemmett@harbourfrontwealth.com

Kevin Anseeuw DBA, CPCA, CFP Investment Advisor kanseeuw@harbourfrontwealth.com Hemmett Anseeuw & Associates Harbourfront Wealth Management Inc. 177 B St. Mary’s Road Winnipeg, Manitoba 204-256-5555 www.harbourfrontwealth.com

HEMMETT ANSEEUW & ASSOCIATES

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ately, there have been many discussions surrounding the value of advice in the financial services industry. There has also been significant attention directed at quantifying and qualifying the pricing of various financial products and proper disclosure to investors. It seems, however, that little attention is directed toward justifying the cost of the source of the actual advice provided to the client. Other considerations include the education, experience, training and expertise of the providers of that advice. Even less attention is directed at the actual needs or complexity of the situation of people who are seeking the advice, with most pricing of investments set to reflect only the size of the account.

We have worked for many years where the emphasis was placed on the value of advice and having a proper and soundly created financial plan, rather than simply focusing on the products used to achieve the objective. One of our favorite quotes compares getting a present and only focusing on the box as a parallel to focusing on the investments used in your portfolio instead of the actual plan being followed. Suffice it to say, few would argue that getting a 10 per cent return on retirement savings, and running out of funds half way through one’s retirement, would likely render the return achieved as somewhat less relevant.

While we recognize the need to create and maintain our clients’ full financial plans, portfolios and unique circumstances, we also realize not all pricing structures, client needs nor advisory teams are created equally, nor should they be priced equally.

If you deal with a team that has many areas of expertise and experience, is it fair you

should pay the same as dealing with an advisor with minimal experience, no team and limited education? Think about it; if both were available to you as a consumer, which would you choose? Would you be happy paying a ‘flat rate’ management fee to a financial institution regardless of which one you received?

Advisors who haven’t properly demonstrated their level of dedication to serving you by keeping communication open and continually educating themselves for your benefit will come under increasing pressure to justify the level of fees they charge. Those who have been doing this already, however, should have little problem in proving their ongoing worth in your life. The responsibility rests on the advisors to properly communicate and demonstrate their value.

‘Cost is only a question in the absence of value,’ is a quote that has been around for many years. As we move into this new era of increased advisory disclosure, it should be a warning to those advisors who fear fee transparency that clients may find gaps in their services provided relative to the fees they charge.

For those of you who work with advisors who demonstrate their commitment to ensure your success, you know already they are worth every dollar spent.

Any opinion expressed herein is based solely upon the author’s current analysis and interpretation of such information, is subject to change and does not necessarily represent the opinions of Harbourfront Wealth Management Inc. This article is for information purposes only and does not provide individual financial, legal, tax or investment advice. Harbourfront Wealth Management Inc. - member CIPF.

D

iscipline, knowledge and a reluctance to accept mainstream thinking are the characteristics which define the truly successful. Retail investors continue to believe they are taking full advantage of investment & tax options when they’re barely scratching the surface. While the term Wealth Management is bantered around, few can truly define it. From customized, back tested portfolio construction, pension style asset management, to tax & trusts solutions, we owe it to ourselves to dig deeper.

Members of

LEFT Kelly Hemmett, B.A., CFP Certified Financial Planner RIGHT Kevin Anseeuw, DBA, CPCA, CFP Investment Advisor

Hemmett Anseeuw & Associates Harbourfront Wealth Management Inc. 177 B St. Mary's Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba 204.256.5555 | www.harbourfrontwealth.com

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Building From the Ground up

An An Interview Interview with with SPIN’s SPIN’s President President and and Founder, Founder, Troy Troy MacDonald MacDonald

By Nicolle Hodges Photos Nikki Siemens

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ehind every business is a story of its origin. For Troy MacDonald, president and founder of Strategic Property Investors Network (SPIN), his is one of resilience, and testimony that where you begin does not define where you will end up.

In his seventh year of investing, and winner of Western Canada’s “Most Inspirational Investor” Award for Canadian Real Estate Wealth Magazine, SPIN not only specializes in real estate investment, but also thrives on educating, inspiring and creating networking opportunities for its members.

Growing up without a father was only the beginning of the hardships that penetrated MacDonald’s early life. What he recalls as one of his first “defining moments,” was watching his mother and his sole caregiver, being dragged from their home by two men; the last words he heard until they met again years later were: “don’t answer the phone, don’t answer the door.”

Eventually, he was discovered and taken to an emergency shelter, where he shared a room with four other children. From there, he passed through 19 different foster homes, some of

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which he recalls weren’t well suited to care for a child. Plagued with a painfully shy personality, he often kept to himself and wound up as a good kid, in what he calls, “a bad system.”

“People ask me now, ‘well how did you turn out the way you did?’” says MacDonald, “and the only way to sum it up, is that even at a young age I knew I had the ability to make a choice.”

Those choices would lead him down a path of prosperous endeavours, including serving as a team leader for WestJet, where he successfully transformed their worst performing airbase into to their best, year after year. “I would speak at team meetings where executives would fly in,” says MacDonald. “It was then I realized I could inspire people, that maybe I had something to offer.”

When MacDonald created SPIN in 2009, there was nothing like it in the city of Winnipeg. Now with a combined 800 members (most of them online) who range from green to seasoned investors, he says their strength derives from that diversity.

The monthly meetings are free to first time guests and consist of interviews

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with industry experts, discussions on topics relevant to real estate, and an opportunity to build connections. If someone feels intimidated or nervous to attend their first meeting, MacDonald suggests taking a look at the teaser videos online to get a feel for what takes place, or to contact him directly.

“I am an inspired man looking to ignite hope in others, and help them look within themselves to realize that they are capable of making a better life for themselves or within the community,” says McDonald. “I love being the leader and making that happen; real estate is just one tool in the toolbox, there is a lot more to be gained.”

More information can be found on the website, including membership fees and meeting times: strategicpropertyinvestorsnetwork.com

Spin (Strategic Property Investors Network) 204.291.3772 troy2042913772@gmail.com |

Hard work, talent, and drive can get you only so far: it’s the relationships that really count—above all else, we value that connection between studio and client, and between people and our work.

Our goal is to create brand stories with passion, talent, and intelligence that drive conversation and engagement for brilliant brands across multiple consumer touch points.

To start a conversation or to craft a story, it takes an attentive ear as much as an eloquent tongue. We believe that it’s our attention to our clients and their audience that helps inspire the solutions that truly resonate and connect in a world filled with competing messages.

We genuinely love what we do and look forward to telling your story.

707-281 MCDERMOT AVE. WINNIPEG, MB R3G 0S9 +1.204.891.8729 hello@26projects.com 26projects.com FineLifestyles

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TripWire Media Group

Tells Your

Story

By Melanie Furlong Photos Shawn Fillion

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veryone has a story to tell and Tripwire Media Group wants to help you tell it. Whether your organization needs testimonial, instructional, or animated videos, Tripwire can help you get your message out. Doug Darling, executive director for Tripwire Media Group, says if what you need falls under the video umbrella, they can do it.

“We run the gamut with all the different kinds of videos we do,” says Darling. “That includes everything from corporate profiles and instructional videos, to 3D animation and graphics, that can take a complicated or dry process and make it entertaining and engaging.”

Connecting the viewer to the client is Tripwire Media’s goal. “Sometimes the connection we want them to make is on an emotional level,” says Darling. “For example, we do a lot of not-for-profit work, including stories about how donations help the Children’s Hospital Foundation. We do feature videos about their Champion Child every year, putting a face on an organization that could seem potentially faceless.” These videos give donors the chance to connect their gifts to successful results.

Tripwire Media is a full production house that’s been in business for five years, doing everything from in-studio production, green-screen work and on-location shoots across the continent, including Vancouver, Toronto, New York, Nunavut, and Tennessee. “We’re more than a

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Winnipeg shop,” says Darling. “We’re very central so nowhere is too far. But, within the digital landscape, our clients come to us based on our work — rather than our proximity. People everywhere see the value of our work.”

The team stretches much further than Darling. It consists of Braydon Musick, shooter/editor/producer and Rodrigo Riedel, creative director (who has worked on major films including Superman and X-Men: Origins), and Tyler Hay, sales director.

Croft Petersmeyer, marketing and communications manager for Economic Development Winnipeg, says, “There are a number of reasons I continue to rely on Tripwire for EDW’s video-related needs.

First and foremost, owner Doug Darling consistently delivers top-notch products time after time, and always within the parameters I’ve requested (subject matter, duration, b-roll, etc.). While the final product is always the ultimate litmus test as to whether or not a project can be deemed successful, Doug and his team bring much more to the table than simply a great end result.”

The Tripwire Media team treasures both the working experience and relationship they develop with their clients. “Fifty per cent of the experience is about the work that is done,” says Darling. “It has to be great. The other 50 per cent is that the client has enjoyed working with us for dozens of hours and that we’ve made it fun and enjoyable. You can get a great product

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but if you’re not enjoying the process, you’re either not going to come back and work with us or you’re not going to speak well of us.”

Working with Tripwire Media is a collaborative process from beginning to end. They connect with clients several times to make sure they’re getting exactly what they need. “It’s a great creative process all the way through,” says Darling. “From internal meetings, preinterviews, scripting, storyboarding, and then there are several points of approval to make sure we’re all on the same track. Communication is key. We’ve never given anyone something they didn’t like because we make sure they’re included throughout the process.”

Darling and his team work hard to stay in front of new technology in their industry. Recently, they purchased a Cinestar 8 Octocopter that can

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fly high-end 4K cameras in the air, and are working with a new software program, VideoBridge, that markets individually catered videos.

Tripwire Media clients can be anyone who has a message that needs to be told.

Some of their bigger clients are Bison Transport, the Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg Airports Authority, National Leasing, AOL, and United Airlines.

They have also done a lot of work in the tourism industry, including for Tourism Winnipeg, and have had their footage used for National events, including the Junos. “Our footage is used on numerous shows, including Canadian Idol and So You Think You Can Dance Canada,” says Darling. “That’s why we love what we do. It’s always something new every week.

One day we’re showing how molten metal is cast with Monarch Industries, and the next week we’re shooting a heart surgery at St. Boniface Hospital. We’re wearing someone else’s shoes and telling someone else’s stories every day. It keeps life fun and entertaining for us. There’s never a day that’s the same.”

Tripwire Media 404-250 McDermot Winnipeg 204.272.9695

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"Easiest way to store stuff, best way to move it"

Providing Stress-Free Storage on Your Terms

By Henny Buffinga Photos BTL Wedding

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right to your door. They will drop off a unit at your home, and give you as much time as you need to load it up. They will pick up the unit and bring it wherever you need it within their service area, or put it into storage at their facilities. “Moving is a hectic time for people; it’s one of the most stressful things you can do. We just want to help people out,” says Chad Wagner, operations manager.

Their system is ideal for people who travel to their jobs, like working up north or away on an oilrig. Instead of paying a lot of money to keep your apartment, you can pack up a portable storage unit and store it with PUPS while you are away, then get it delivered wherever you end up, either back home or in a new city. They have five sizes of container units, which are designed to hold large items and work well for either residential or commercial use.

I

f the idea of moving across the country brings you stress, you’re not alone. The hassle of renting a cube van, packing up all your worldly possessions, and driving hundreds of miles amongst aggressive drivers and big trucks is nerve-racking for most of us.

PUPS Portable Storage offers a great alternative to these stressful situations with their portable storage units delivered

PUPS stands for Portable Units - Portable Storage, and they have a network across Canada employing close to 50 employees.

“The business was founded eight years ago, and it was strictly supposed to be portable storage solutions,” says Wagner.

“After a couple years in the business, it expanded into the self-storage market.

Portable doesn’t work for everyone in every situation, so we make sure to offer both products.” The company was started in Regina and has expanded all the way from Nanaimo, B.C. to Ottawa, Ontario.

“There are many benefits to portable storage,” says Wagner. “First of all you can take your time with them, there’s no rush.

If you want to take two weeks to load it, you can. There’s ground level loading as well, which is convenient. We use galvanized steel on the units, which is lighter-weight, rust, weather and rodent resistant.”

One of the things that sets PUPS apart is the hydraulic lift system on the boom trucks they use to deliver and pick up their units. Their trucks are able to place the unit virtually anywhere that’s safe and effective, which is another worry-free solution for their customers.

PUPS Portable Units are a great, stress-free way to store and move your possessions, with a helpful staff to ensure the transition in your life as easy as possible.

“We are 100 per cent Canadian, owned and operated,” says Wagner. “Every one of us is Canadian, we’re just hard-working prairie guys who want to have a successful business. The only way you can do that is with the people that you have in front of you, not just our customers, but our excellent employees as well.”

For more information about their services, check out their website today.

PUPS Portable Storage 855.849.7877 www.storagevaultcanada.com

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THE

CONVERTIBLE REINVENTED

By Rebecca Schneidereit

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T

he 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.

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 the ‘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 possessed a Porsche Type 356 C so extravagantly ornamented it’s now a museum piece.

What was arguably North America’s most decadent decade, the 1970s, saw steep deterioration in convertible marketability.

However, popularity catapulted again in the ‘80s, with the 1982 Chrysler LeBaron among comeback forerunners. The LeBaron isn’t universally beloved, however, it’s also made its way into worst car top 10 lists.

The “second wind” of the ‘80s and ‘90s fuelled 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.

IF YOU WANT ONE If you’re considering purchasing a convertible, your timing couldn’t be better. There are currently a variety of exciting models, crafted by the best manufacturers in the business. 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.

German creator BMW’s 6 Series Cabriolet is decked with lots of 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.

If you’re interested in a sportier ride look no further than BMW’s Z4 Roadster, a compact two-seater with power to spare. The convertible is designed for drivers who value the journey over the destination. With its sleek design the roadster is reminiscent of the convertibles of yesteryear, with all the perks of today’s modern technology.

When deciding to buy a convertible there is no time like the present to buy your own modern classic.

LEFT 4 Series convertible ABOVE z4 Roadster FineLifestyles

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Class Redone

By Melanie Furlong Photos BTL Wedding

B

irchwood BMW proudly welcomed clients and friends to its new facility in the Pointe West Autopark at 45-3965 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, for the Grand Re-Opening on June 12th. Guided walk-throughs introduced guests to the up-to-date amenities and an impressive new space.

Craig Becker, general manager of Birchwood BMW, says, “The new building gives BMW a significantly larger presence in Winnipeg - in an ultra-modern facility.”

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The sleek European-style decor is cool and clean making it the perfect setting for Winnipeg's first car dealership with an open kitchen concept. “Our service department's customer lounge has large glass windows so you can view the service bays and watch the technicians working on your vehicle,” says Becker. “We've upgraded and updated the shop with state of the art diagnostic equipment and devices. We have an industrial compound floor, stainless steel uniform workbenches and anything and everything our factory trained technicians need.”

Exhaust extraction, synthetic oil, washer fluid, high-pressure and low-pressure water are available on reels from the sky of the shop. The technician can grab the hose he needs and let it go again when he's done.

“This system keeps the workplace as clean and efficient as possible,” says Becker.

Opening a beautiful new facility like this is a fitting way for the Birchwood Automotive Group to celebrate 50 years in business. In 1964, R.M. Chipman started the automotive group with the first store, Birchwood Pontiac Buick GMC, at the

corner of Portage and Moray. Now run by his son, Steve Chipman, the Birchwood group, including the BMW store, prides itself on providing excellent customer service. “Our major focus is client experience,” says Becker. “It's about how they are treated in the long-term. That's how we have managed to garner a lot of repeat and referral business.”

Birchwood BMW also cares about its employees. “We know they make the difference from top technicians and helpful sales people to friendly service advisors. The BMW dealership is truly ‘People Driven’,’” says Becker.

Birchwood Automotive Group has grown so much in 50 years. It's now Manitoba's largest network of automotive retailers with 11 dealerships representing 16 different car manufacturers. They

sell approximately 15,000 vehicles in Manitoba each year.

BMW has always had a reputation as an industry leader by taking advancements in technology and applying them to their premium luxury vehicles. Without question, the sophistication found in BMW automobiles is second-to-none.

“BMWs are no longer only for the highend market,” says Becker. “BMW offers a wide range of models that start as low as $36,000 and go up to $180,000.”

Every month-and-a-half for the entire 2014 calendar year, Birchwood BMW is launching a new BMW model! These have included the updated BMW X3, the brand new X5 and the 3 Series Gran Tourismo.

Soon they will launch the 4 Series Gran Coupé, X4 and the 2 Series ActiveHybrid.

The sales team at Birchwood BMW are experts when it comes to product knowledge and are well versed in all the amenities to be found in all BMW vehicles. They welcome the opportunity to show customers what separates BMW from the competition.

“BMW has a car for nearly everyone,” says Becker. “BMW is about driving spirit and people who love automobiles. It's the ultimate driving experience.”

For further information on vehicles mentioned in this article and to view the dealership online visit www. birchwoodbmw.com.

Birchwood BMW 45-3965 Portage Ave. 204.452.7799 www.birchwoodbmw.ca

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BMW 4 Series

Birchwood BMW

The Ultimate Driving Experience.

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The BMW 44 Series SeriesCabriolet Cabrioletevokes evokesan anirresistible irresistible feeling freedom.

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Dynamic, elegant andand incredibly sporty, sporty, this is the Cabriolet viewed from its most alluring angle.

Open or closed, BMW’s designers and this is the Cabriolet viewed from its most alluring angle. Open or closed, BMW’s designers and engineers haveengineers created a vehicle in which every moment sheermoment pleasure.isExperience the 4 Experience Series at Birchwood BMW.atAvailable in x BMW. drive. have created a vehicle in whichisevery sheer pleasure. the 4 Series Birchwood

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Red River North

Selkirk in the Summer:

A RoAd TRip desTinATion on The Red RiveR

By Tori Stafford Photos courtesy of The City of Selkirk

N

othing inspires a little road trip like the sun-drenched days of summer, calling you out of urban commotion, back to nature and the season at hand.

As the heat and sun take hold, we are quickly reminded of the refreshing beauty and excitement the great waterways this province has in plenty, and of just how close we are to these sparkling gems. Often overlooked as you head out to lake country,

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the City of Selkirk and the surrounding area are mere minutes from Winnipeg and a prize example of what exists along the waterfront. Selkirk – a thriving city on the cusp of major growth and development, is an historic community with an eye to the future, that offers access to worldclass waterways, a variety of activities, entertainment, and boutique shopping “all with that wonderful small-town feeling,” says Sheri Skalesky.

“It’s a great place to visit, whether it is for the day, for the week, or for the season,” expresses Skalesky, Selkirk Biz and Selkirk and Area Chamber of Commerce executive director. “We have some amazing highlights in the area, and we have a lot to celebrate!”

It’s hard not to mention the outstanding opportunities Selkirk offers in unsurpassed fishing. Known as “The Catfish Capital of the World” and home

a sandy beach along the shore of the great river that’s just a half-hour drive from the city. Not far from the Selkirk’s downtown core, its beach is the ideal destination for a picnic and quick dip with friends after boutique shopping.

to Chuck the Channel Cat, a catfish statue over 11 metres tall that stands on the city’s main street, Selkirk’s location along the Red River puts it in prime position for impeccable angling due to the high numbers of trophy-worthy catfish the River boasts. Throughout Selkirk and the surrounding area, there are countless tour guides and rental companies ready to suit you up and point you in the direction of the hotbed fishing, be it for fun or for competitive sport.

But, of course, fishing is not the only thing Selkirk on the Red River, has to offer, and with theme of the season comes a favourite pastime across the continent: a day at the beach. Before you hit the sand beaches of Lake Winnipeg, or if you’re just looking for an afternoon in the sun, Selkirk offers

“We have a lot of nice boutique stores and specialty stores,” Skalesky says, noting that Selkirk’s proximity to so many wonderful destinations puts the city in a great position to become a stop-off on family trips or a destination all of its own for day trips while exploring the lakes.

“I have lived in the community for just about all my life, and I love it. Anytime anybody asks me about Selkirk and why live here, I tell them that it just has a great quality of life. You’re not putting up with the hustle and bustle of big city life, but everything you could need or want is a couple-minutes drive away – no line ups, no parking hassle.”

Despite being removed from “the big city,” Selkirk offers all of the amenities one could need, and is steadily growing, Skalesky explains. A brand new hotel about a decade in the works will open this fall following on the heels of a new state-ofthe-art library that opened earlier this year

and has quickly become a popular meeting place for many in the area.

Interlake Regional Health Authority is building a brand new hospital in Selkirk, set to be completed in 2017, furthering the growth within the area and solidifying the city’s place as a regional health hub, Skalesky says.

South Beach Casino and Resort, just 20 minutes outside of Selkirk in Scanterbury, is a happening hub of gaming, entertainment, conferences and dining.

South Beach is a popular destination and a great option for bachelorette parties, weekends away, or couples vacations.

As well, the area is home to a number of provincial parks and beaches, and boasts a variety of historic sites and monuments for those with a keen interest in national history – which Selkirk was instrumental.

“As it is, I think Selkirk has a lot to offer to those who live here, those looking to live here, and those who visit,” Skalesky says.

“But we’re also very excited about what the future holds, and making Selkirk an even great place to live and visit. The stage is being set, and I think there are going to be a whole lot more great things to come.”

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Red River North

Your Home AwAy fr om Hom e

By Tobie Hainstock Photos TDL Photography

M

ake it your home away from home! The lovely Harlequin House Bed and Breakfast offers guests a comfortable and relaxing environment in which to unwind after a long day of travelling. Designed and built by The Hunters, all guest amenities were planned from the outset based on their personal experiences while travelling and staying in bed and & breakfast accommodations.

Guests will appreciate the warm hospitality of their hosts, Heather Hunter and her husband, Larry. At Harlequin House, each guest is an individual and their stay is customized according to their needs and preferences.

“We’ve always enjoyed cooking and entertaining,” says

Hunter. “Opening up our bed and breakfast seemed to be the perfect fit.” Harlequin House features a stunning Grand Suite and three beautiful rooms with private en suites for guest comfort and privacy.

Now in its third year of operation, Harlequin House Bed and Breakfast is just six-and-a-half minutes east of Selkirk and overlooks the scenic Red River. Conveniently located just 25 minutes from the North Perimeter, it’s the perfect distance to get away from it all after a long day in the city.

Customer satisfaction is always top of mind for the Hunters.

Guests experience a delicious hot breakfast straight from the stunning award-winning kitchen featuring many tasty ABOVE Heather and Larry Hunter

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Red River North delights such as fresh blueberry sauce on French toast.

“We are able to adapt to the needs of our guests,” remarks Hunter. “We can be flexible with breakfast times and accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions.”

Guests are given freedom to enjoy the bed and breakfast and the grounds during their stay. Hunter adds that complimentary tea, coffee and snacks are available 24 hours a day in the common area. A dip in the swim spa hot tub after a long day is the perfect way to relax and soak up the scenic surroundings, watch the pelicans in season, and enjoy amazing sunsets from the comfortable deck overlooking the river. Spend a quiet evening watching TV, reading, playing games or visiting.

For those who love the great outdoors, Harlequin House is located just minutes from stunning walking trails, golf courses and popular tourist attractions such as Oak Hammock Marsh, Birds Hill Park and Grand Beach.

History buffs will want to take in the Marine Museum and the Community Heritage driving tour which features an enlightening 32 historical points of interests such as old churches, schools and much more. Lower Fort Garry, a National Historic Site, is one of many stops along the route. Just north on Highway 59, South Beach offers the excitement of the casino. A variety of wonderful restaurants can be found throughout the area. “Your stay can be as quiet as you want or as busy as you want; it’s entirely up to you,” comments Hunter.

Enjoy the beautiful open concept of this stunning and uniquely designed facility. Whether you choose to relax in the privacy of your room or spend time socializing in one of many guest areas found throughout the home, you will appreciate the welcoming ambience of the entire bed and breakfast.

Have a special event coming up in the foreseeable future?

Harlequin House can accommodate smaller events such as business meetings, anniversary dinners, showers, birthday celebrations and more. “We have meeting space that’s perfect for accommodating 12 to 40 people, and we are well located in the region for hosting your business client meetings,” notes Hunter.

As a member of Bed and Breakfast of Manitoba, guests of Harlequin House have peace of mind staying in an accommodation that must maintain high standards of comfort and cleanliness. Friendly and informative hosts are part of the package. Peaceful surroundings, impeccable service and comfortable accommodations, make Harlequin House Bed and Breakfast your home away from home.

Harlequin House Bed and Breakfast Selkirk, MB 204.785.8442 www.harlequinhousebanb.com |

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Give your taste buds a treat!

For many years, The Upper Crust Bakery has been the go-to bakery for countless people in the Interlake for all of their baked goods. Now we’re proud to also share our fresh-baked items with the people of Winnipeg at our second bakery located in Charleswood. Give your taste buds a treat and visit The Upper Crust Bakery today!

315 Manitoba Ave., Selkirk 204.785.8619 3416 Roblin Blvd., Winnipeg 204.889.8356

www.theuppercrustbakery.ca

Red River North

A Bulk Store

and So Much More!

By Tobie Hainstock PhotosTDL Photography

I

came up to open my own store, I took it,” Manlow recalls. Today, Gramma Carol’s Gourmet Bulk and Health is a vibrant business that thrives, serving a broad demographic of clientele.

“I really love dealing directly with customers, so when an opportunity

Manlow acknowledges the industry is an ever-changing one with new products being introduced at a continuous rate.

“Things are constantly changing,” she says.

“It’s very important that we maintain a learning environment.” Through training,

n 1996, Carol Manlow was a single mother suffering with fibromyalgia.

Rather than being content with her situation, Manlow decided to take control and move her life ahead. She had completed nearly 20 courses in the natural health field, which helped her deal with her condition, and inspired her to start her own wholesale business.

webinars and tradeshows, Manlow and her staff keep up with the trends.

“We are more than just a health food store,” she comments. “We offer a wide variety of products and services.” Manlow and her staff take pride in supplying high quality brands that use the finest ingredients.

Muscle Mist One of the popular products Gramma Carol’s offers customers is Muscle Mist. This spray

OPPOSITE Carol Manlow and the staff at Gramma Carol’s

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was developed by Manlow and is made with natural ingredients. It is known as a highly effective treatment for a number of ailments, including muscle pain, headache, fibromyalgia, arthritis, sinus issues and more.

VitaMins and suppleMents Vitamins and supplements are also on the list of products available at Gramma Carol’s.

“We have a whole wall designated for our line of top quality, natural supplements,” says Manlow. All supplements are listed according to category for the convenience of the customer.

Giftware Gramma Carol’s also provides a lovely selection of high-end and unique giftware. Whether looking for a unique wine bottle holder, a Himalayan salt lamp, high quality artwork or luxurious Hugo Naturals soaps, no shopper will be able to resist picking up something for a special person on their list.

Bulk foods and specialties What would a bulk store be without the finest and freshest bulk food products available in the area? Gramma Carol’s carries a wide range of specialty products, including items that are gluten-free and low-carb, as well as specialty barbecue sauces and a wide variety of hot sauce. You can even find that special kitchen gadget and so much more.

For special occasions all year long, see Gramma Carol’s for mouth-watering custom fruit and nut trays. “I make every tray from scratch so that I can put in exactly what the customer asks for,” explains Manlow. Perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, reunions, parties, gifts and more, these tasty trays will be a delightful addition. recoGnized in the Business coMMunity Manlow’s innovative business style has earned a lot of recognition over the years. In 2009, she won the award for Woman Entrepreneur of the Year for International Trade. She has also had the privilege of being a gift bag supplier for the Academy and Prime Time Emmy Awards.

Located in Selkirk, Gramma Carol’s Gourmet, Bulk and Health is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Gramma Carol’s Gourmet, Bulk and Health 240 Main Street, Selkirk MB 204.785.8374 grammacarols@live.ca www.musclemist.ca

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ExcEllEnt Hospitality and community spirit at

Sou th B eac h c a Si no a nd R e So Rt

By Henny Buffinga

W

hether you’re looking to get away from the big city for some fun or looking for a local spot to eat and enjoy a show, South Beach Casino and Resort is a great place to go for great service, a great atmosphere and great value.

Located 15 minutes from the iconic Grand Beach on Lake Winnipeg, South Beach

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Casino and Resort is a 95-room hotel that offers live entertainment, an excellent buffet, a pool, 600 slot machines and 11 table games. South Beach is situated on the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation Reserve, and is collectively owned by seven nations in the area, including: Poplar River, Pauingassi, Little Grand Rapids, Hollow Water, Brokenhead Ojibway, Blood Vein and Black River First Nations.

“We have an A1 reputation,” says Tick Rowson, director of marketing. “We focus on taking care of our customers. Our success can be attributed to our incredible staff, customer service and how we treat our guests.” South Beach prides itself on their clean facility and stylish art deco décor. “We have an immaculate facility.

People always rave about how clean it is here,” says Rowson.

Mango’s — the hotel’s restaurant — offers an excellent selection of international food, including Manitoba’s Finest Seafood Feast on Thursday nights and prime rib on Saturdays. “Our buffets are very popular. A lot of people come to dine and enjoy the free entertainment,” says Rowson. Their talented new chef, Richard de Krijer, has implemented a new program called Friday Night Beach Buffet, which also features prime rib. South Beach offers free entertainment at their Blue Dolphin Lounge, featuring local country and classic rock bands.

South Beach is an excellent destination for a weekend away and offers discounted rooms during the week perfect for retired couples looking for something to do together. “From holding the door open, to

a free valet service and a complimentary car wash, we have great customer service and people love the way they get treated here,” says Rowson. “This summer, for every car we park we will give $1 to Winnipeg Harvest, a food bank that helps people who need assistance.”

South Beach gives back to the community through various programs, including the Community Spirit Fund. “It’s an amount of money we set aside every year that non-profit organizations and other groups from the surrounding areas of Winnipeg and Selkirk can apply to receive,” Rowson explains. “Anybody can apply.

The committee will meet to review the applications and decide on something they want to support. The fund is a great way to

put money back into the community.” The funds usually go to programs that promote social welfare through community infrastructure or healthcare programs.

Employing approximately 250 people from Selkirk and surrounding areas, South Beach also supports the community by providing meaningful employment. “We’re happy to be here,” says Rowson. “Selkirk is a great city, and even though we’re not in the city itself, it’s nice that they include us in the community.”

South Beach Casino and Resort One Ocean Drive, Scanterbury 1.877.775.8259 www.southbeachcasino.ca

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Red River North

Looking After Families from

ONE Generation to the Next

By Tori Stafford Photos Anne Boyko

A

lot has happened in Selkirk over the last 65 years and, through it all, one company has been there to support their clients and the community: ONE Insurance.

What began three generations ago with Dale McMillan’s father operating the company out of his home, has grown and flourished into a personal insurance brokerage with 12 locations throughout the Interlake, Winnipeg and southern Manitoba. Now, Dale and his daughter, Kier, along with partners, Allan Molitowsky and his son, Matt, are carrying on the legacy of this family-run company that puts customer needs and satisfaction above all else.

when Dale’s father handled each client personally all those years ago.

However, the growth the company has experienced certainly offers benefits to all ONE Insurance clients, Dale explains.

“As brokers, we represent many insurance companies, and being the size we are, we probably have about 15 options to choose from in any scenario,” he says. “We are well-rounded enough that, whatever the client’s needs are, we can fill them.”

“We offer choice, and can customize a program and an insurance policy to your needs,” Kier explains.“If you are a client, and you need us to come for an in-house visit, we’ll do that. If you would like to come in and have a coffee, that’s great too. If you are a busy person and you prefer doing things over the phone, no problem — we do what suits your lifestyle.”

Having started in Selkirk, where the company has two locations including their head office, ONE Insurance values being a big part of the local community. They are constantly meeting the insurance needs of their clients in areas including property, farm, business, life and Autopac. However, ONE Insurance and their local team serve the Selkirk area in many other ways. From the Palliative Care Pro-Am golf tournament the company has sponsored for the past 18 years, to the countless organizations and youth projects they’ve supported both financially and with their own time, there isn’t much happening in Selkirk that ONE Insurance isn’t a part of, Dale explains.

Despite the growth of ONE Insurance (formerly McMillan Insurance), the company still offers the personal service and client attention it did

“Anything that comes to our attention that allows our staff to go out into our community, we want to be a part of. We don’t just want to

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Above Selkirk Main Team RIGHT Allan, Kier, Matt, and Dale LoWeR Selkirk West Team

sign a cheque, we want to know what is happening, where the needs are, and we want to help,” he says.

With the strong emphasis the company places on continual employee education, clients bringing their insurance concerns to a broker at ONE Insurance can trust they’re in good hands — just the way his father’s clients felt over half a century ago at the first Selkirk location, Dale expresses.

“We feel it is really important to have knowledgeable people in every one of our locations, and we’ve set up different programs and training courses that we actively engage in,” he says. “We know it is really important to our customers that they are getting the best advice and service, and it is especially important to ONE that we provide exactly that.”

ONE Insurance Group 363 Main Street Selkirk, Manitoba 204.482.2300 lynnr@oneinsurancegroup.ca www.oneinsurancegroup.ca

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Red River North

ADDING ELEGANCE TO YOUR

Special Day

By Trina Annand Photos TDL Photography

Since their domestication over 5,000 years ago, horses have become an integral part of many cultures. Far more than livestock and transportation, horses have become friends and important members of celebrations. At Equine Elegance Horse Drawn Services, Mike Young and his staff understand this unique connection to horses, as well as the wonder and elegance they bring to an event.

H

“

orses are very therapeutic, they relieve all the stresses of the day. They don’t judge you and they have this amazing ability to make people smile,” says Young who believes horses are the perfect accent to the bridal industry. Having rode horses; he knew their majestic ability to not only

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assimilate as an additional family member but also as a way to relax after a long day.

What began as a small dream has blossomed into a six-horse operation with Clydesdales, Percherons, Spotted Drafts, a carriage, a wagonette, a 60-person wagon, three sleighs and a soon-to-be completed 30-person trolley. To each

event, along with his horses, he brings his guiding principals: professionalism, pride, happiness and fun. Equine Elegance always enhances the magic, whether it be for a princess party, graduation, a wedding, a snowy group ride through Fort Whyte or even a wagonette ride after your Sunday brunch at The Gates on Roblin.

The essential joy of being with horses is that it brings us in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit and freedom.

— Sharon Ralls Lemon

OPPOSITE PAGE Photo by Lana Young - Aspire Photography

Equine Elegance has the perfect solution for every event or season, bringing together a love for horses and the great outdoors. Currently, the business is offering a package perfect for inducing/ stimulating/encouraging romance, which includes a decorated carriage and champagne. This package is ideal for an anniversary or even a proposal.

Equine Elegance’s desire is to create meaningful events. One such is the Children’s Wish Foundation, whose mandate is to make dreams come true.

“We really take time to make your day that much more special. It’s the little details that make an event memorable,” says Young.

The magic happens because of their attention to all things — but especially

ABOVE Mike Young with business partner, Ann Penner

their horses. “We do what is best for our horses, we keep them healthy and happy, never putting them in situations they are uncomfortable with,” remarks Young.

Most recently, the company escorted Cinderella and Ariel to a princess-themed birthday party in the horse drawn carriage where the children enjoyed carriage rides.

Regardless of the season, adding a horse driven experience can be an extra special addition to any event, including corporate get-togethers or parades. Weekends book up fast, so it is best to explore your options early; however any day of the week is a great day for a celebration.

“Anyone can hire a limo for an event, [but] horses add that extra touch of history,

romance and elegance,” says Young.

“Having horses at an event can also be an educational experience; tour the city or a park. You’ll be surprised at how many people have actually never seen a horse up close.”

Whether you are a devoted horse lover or simply looking for that added touch, Equine Elegance can add the “wow factor” to any event — big or small.

Equine Elegance Horse Drawn Services Box 11, Libau 204.766.2002 sixhorses@mymts.net | Website coming soon

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Red River North

Exploring Great Food in a

His t ori c s etti ng

By Trina Annand Photos TDL Photography

L

ife is busy. The world is digital.

Family time spent together is more important than ever before. Maple Grove Tea Room acknowledges the importance of being together and fully embraces the slow food movement with locally sourced menu ingredients and meals from scratch.

Picked as one of Canada’s best places to have afternoon tea by Canadian Living Magazine, Maple Grove was also featured

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on Go! Winnipeg and had a brush with the silver screen as a filming location for Heaven is For Real, starring Greg Kinnear.

The tearoom is a hidden gem only 20 minutes outside of Winnipeg.

Located inside Kennedy House, former residence of Captain William Kennedy, Maple Grove Tearoom evokes the historical and cultural growth of Manitoba. One of the founding members of the province, Kennedy was an explorer

and entrepreneur who used all local resources to build his estates in 1866, including stone quarried from River Road, an original piece of the province’s architectural history. The house is one of only a few of this design left standing.

Guests can stop for just one sitting or stay all day enjoying the Kennedy House Museum and grounds. Great food combined with a fantastic view of the Red River is a perfectly spent summer day.

“It is the perfect setting for a quiet meal or a joyous event,” notes Valerie Brown, owner. Using family recipes passed down from her family’s bakery, all cooking is done onsite with local — never frozen — food by Brown herself.

Whether guests are looking for a hearty red salmon sandwich or a tasty bread pudding with house made caramel sauce, there is something for everyone at Maple Grove.

They are pleased to offer a soup, salad and sandwich menu along with a decadent dessert selection. The tearoom hosts a high tea service every month, an event that books up well in advance, especially for their season opening Mother’s Day tea.

“As a person of English descent who runs

a tearoom, high tea seemed like a natural choice. People love coming together for an afternoon of indulgence and elegance. It’s a great family event,” says Brown.

With a maximum 30 guests, Maple Grove fills up fast, so reservations are recommended. This limited seating in a historic setting makes for an intimate event whether it is a wedding, anniversary, birthday or anything else worthy of celebration. With a patio that overlooks the winding Red River, the well-manicured grounds are the perfect backdrop for a photo-shoot; guests may never want to leave Maple Grove.

“Each season we welcome both international and local guests. I love being

able to share my passion for great food and our history with the world,” remarks Brown. Stop in for tea or a homemade meal. Enjoy the history, be treated like royalty, tie the knot — just come and see why Brown fell in love with the location over a decade ago.

Maple Grove Teahouse 417 River Road, St. Andrews 204.334.2498 maplegrovetearoom@mymts.net www.maplegrove.weebly.com |

Open seasonally May to September seven days a week in July and August, closed Mondays (aside from holidays) the rest of the season.

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Visit

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Zumba Fitness with Jan zumbajan@mts.net ZumbaManitoba @zumba_jan 154

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elleza mente SALON & SPA

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204.785.1515

Corydon

A Neighbourhood Where

H i s t o ry M e e t s H e a rt

By Brandi Parnell Photos Clark Moeller

“I have always believed that every great city in history needs a vibrant center.”

Eli Broad

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A

n area loved by pizza and pasta fans, Corydon Avenue, once referred to as “Little Italy,” is a summer hot spot for more than Italians. In fact, this trendy strip of Winnipeg is now home to more than 30 restaurants. It is dotted with unique little shops, epicurean markets and makes for a perfect night out for dessert or an espresso.

Corydon is riddled with gourmet foods from all over the world, for dining in or taking home to enjoy. Favourite restaurants have quaint, romantic

patios with live music, fresh flowers and endless culinary options. Small, authentic markets make for mouthwatering pit stops and the shopping is distinctive.

In fact, “The Strip” is top-of-mind for anyone seeking a one-off gift or a hankering for something homemade. From fashion-forward boutiques to fantastic florists, from skate shops to French cafés, from hardware stores to salons and spas, this Winnipeg destination is perfect for logging steps and shopping a day or night away.

Named after Corydon Partlow Brown, who was a member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba from 1878 to 1888, Corydon has been compared to the likes of Edmonton’s Whyte Avenue, St. John’s George Street, Calgary’s 17th Avenue and Saskatoon’s Broadway Avenue.

Often mentioned as a must-see spot for tourists,

How to Spend a Perfect Afternoon on Corydon

Corydon exudes an upbeat feeling that makes

• Have lunch on a patio

you want to stay for hours.

• People watch

In this issue, we have created a map of some fine

• Pay your bill and go for gelati

It is a hot spot for people seeking culture, enjoying the city’s nightlife, and meeting friends. Beginning perpendicular to Osborne Village, it runs quite a path through “Little Italy,” past picturesque character homes, all the way to Assiniboine Park. During the summer, it is vibrant, lively and green. Walk it, jog it, shop it, or just sit on its patios and soak up the sun.

you seek the perfect accessory to a timeless outfit

Corydon Avenue cuts through the centre of River Heights, and is located 4.4 km from downtown and 9.6 km from the airport.

local businesses we love to support. Whether or you want a loaf of freshly baked bread, jump on your bike or stroll through elm trees to this spectacular summer spot. You might find yourself having a craft beer and a bite to eat with your loaf of bread at your side. Corydon tends to do that to people. It draws you in and doesn’t let go.

• Find a treasure for yourself, or better yet, someone you love (sweet treat, locally made greeting card, freshly baked cookies) • Rest your feet, have a latte

OPPOSITE Photo credit: Corydon Avenue BIZ ABOVE Photo credit: Brent Bellamy FineLifestyles

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Corydon

Take W Away

a Taste of

Greece

By Courtney Tait Photos Shawn Fillion

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alking into The Greek Market, located at 1440 Corydon Avenue, the smells of lemon potatoes, chicken souvlaki and tzatziki will soon overtake and entice you. This quaint treasured market introduced the flavours of Greece to Winnipeg with their passion for great food and excellent customer service.

What began primarily as a grocery store filled with imported Greek products such as traditional Greek cheeses, the highest quality of olive oils, their famous homemade salad dressing, Greek coffee and specialty olives from all over Greece, evolved over the years into a bustling take-out food store. The Greek Market now specializes in pre-prepared authentic Greek food — from coveted dishes like

spanakopita and fresh baked moussaka, to scrumptious desserts like Baklava, Greek cookies, and a large variety of cakes — bringing the essence of Greece to Winnipeg.

Many new options are introduced regularly at the Greek Market. The “We Make It, You Bake it” section features many of your favourite items, uncooked and frozen. This option affords planning simple and delicious meals for teenagers at home, elderly parents, and weekends at the lake. The Greek Market makes summer entertaining easy; simply bring your favourite casserole dish or salad bowl to the Greek Market, and they will happily prepare, cook and transfer gourmet meals into your container.

After listening to requests from customers, the Greek Market has adapted their menu to include healthy options and glutenfree meals to fit their clients’ needs. Some gluten-free favourites include grilled vegetables, lentil salad, wild rice pilaf, stuffed tomatoes, cabbage rolls, and the editor’s personal favourite — gluten-free lasagna and veggie pizzas that can be baked at home.

With BBQ season coming up, bison burgers prepared with local bison, pork and lamb souvlaki, ouzo shrimp skewers, and a variety of fresh-made dips and pita make dinner with friends a breeze.

Some additions to the “Market” include an appetizer menu featuring cocktail party items such as: • Lamb chops • Cocktail-size chicken souvlaki • Greek cheese wrapped with eggplant • Greek salad on a skewer Two new exciting combination options are also now on the menu: • Baked salmon with Greek rice, grilled vegetables and Greek salad.

• Sousoukakia (Greek meat balls with cumin), Greek rice and Greek salad.

A weekly special is presented each week from Thursday to Saturday. Join the mailing list at greekmarket.ca or provide your email address at the store to find out about this week’s special.

To customize a menu specific to your needs and budget, contact Irene at 204.488.6161, or email irene@greekmarket.ca.

The Greek Market 1440 Corydon Ave, Winnipeg 204-488-6161 info@greekmarket.ca www.greekmarket.ca

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Corydon

Sophisticated Prairie Cuisine

With a tWist

By Tonya Lambert Photos Shawn Fillion

W

alking in the door of Mise Bistro & Lounge in Winnipeg’s fashionable Corydon district, you

are enveloped in a warm, comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant’s trendy décor features open- ceiling beams and local artwork on the walls. Sit and enjoy a glass of wine, sample a local craft beer in the cozy

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lounge, or head out back to the hidden patio and relax with friends while savouring some of the restaurant’s mouth-watering main courses and delicious desserts.

Owners Sue and Terry Gereta describe the restaurant’s menu as “haute prairie cuisine.”

“We use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and prepare them using a blend of traditional and innovative techniques and flavourings,”

says Sue. Many of their ingredients are bought from area farmers or grown in the restaurant’s own herb and vegetable garden alongside apple trees. This results in a menu that changes with the seasons and regularly offers customers exciting, new dishes to try.

Mise’s tastefully-presented, upscale “prairie cuisine with a twist” has kept customers coming back for nearly a decade. With many

years of experience in the food industry, Terry and Sue decided to venture out and open their own restaurant. Starting with a catering business in October 2003, the couple opened Mise Bistro & Lounge in August 2004 with Terry as the head chef and Sue as the pastry chef.

The couple soon realized that guests were having a difficult time choosing from the many delectable dishes, so they introduced the extremely popular three-course tasting option that has proven to be an excellent way to sample new dishes while honouring favourites. There is also the option of adding a glass of wine specifically paired with each dish.

While guests will frequently find new dishes

to whet their appetites on the menu, the restaurant has become well-known in the city for their signature dishes: slow-roasted Manitoba pork ribs with wild rice latke fries, harissa dipping sauce and coleslaw, as well as cornmeal-crusted Manitoba pickerel on a warm salad with a tomato vinaigrette. Mise’s unique and extremely well-liked latke fries are made from potato pancakes mixed with wild rice, cut into strips and fried; they can be ordered as an appetizer or a side dish.

Mise Bistro & Lounge is the perfect setting for a romantic evening out. Gourmet food, fine wine, inviting ambiance, great service and contemporary décor; everything necessary for a perfect evening with your special someone is found at Mise’s. The restaurant is also designed to accommodate

groups of up to 25 people in its private function room. Perfect for small weddings or business lunches, the room is equipped with a pull-down screen for presentations.

Sue and Terry, along with Chef Calvin Strong, invite you to come and celebrate their 10th anniversary this summer and check out their backyard patio, one of Winnipeg’s hidden treasures.

Mise Bistro & Lounge 842 Corydon Ave. Winnipeg, MB 204.284.7916 www.miserestaurant.com

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Corydon

Right Where He Belongs

By Tonya Lambert Photos Shawn Fillion

Calvin Strong Chef, Mise

M

ise is short for Mise en Place (“Everything in its Place”), meaning that the chef has everything prepared – and it is certainly difficult to imagine a chef who has been better prepared for his work than Calvin Strong, chef at Mise. Strong always prepares, lives and thinks in food. His passion and talent for cooking led him to pursue training as a chef at Red River College post high school. Since then, he has broadened his already impressive understanding of flavours and honed his skills cooking in several local restaurants. For the past two years, he served as sous chef at Mise. When Terry Gereta was given the opportunity to pursue teaching full-time at Red River College, Strong transitioned easily to head chef.

Along with his passion and talent, Strong brings his own unique approach to the restaurant’s signature dishes and has added several new mouth-watering dishes to Mise’s menu. Poultry lovers will have a difficult time choosing between the seared duck breast with carrot puree, pickled shallots, cilantro and spiced John Russell honey, and the grilled chicken breast on asparagus with soft egg, miso butter and croutons. Owner Sue Gereta says Chef Strong’s seared pork belly with a Korean-style slaw, bacon, and kimchi has become her new favourite. Which of the many exciting new dishes will become your favourite?

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Recipe Pea puree: 375g shelled peas blanched and then shocked in ice water.

1 tbsp. reduced sodium Japanese soy sauce (I use Kikkoman) 1/4 C water Method: puree blanched peas, soy sauce and water, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary with more soy sauce.

Smoked paprika oil: 1/8 C smoked paprika 1/2 C grape seed or other neutrally flavored oil Method: Whisk together the oil and paprika and let sit at room temperature overnight. strain through a coffee or fryer filter. Reserve strained oil in a squeeze bottle.

Kale Chips: 1 bunch kale salt grape seed or any high smoke-point oil Method: Set oven to 250F. clean kale from the stalk and wash. place kale in a bowl and lightly coat the leaves with oil mixing with your hands. lightly season with salt.

Space out the kale in a single layer on a sheet pan lined

with parchment paper and bake for 5 minutes. Rotate the pan after 5 minutes and bake for another 5, repeating as necessary until the kale is crispy.

Salmon: 4-6oz salmon fillets oil salt method: Pre-heat a grill or barbeque. lightly oil the salmon fillets on both sides.

Season with salt and mark on the grill. Cooking to your preferred doneness.

Garnish: Prepared Horseradish Whitefish caviar To plate: Place approximately 1/4 C of pea puree in a shallow bowl or plate of your choosing. Using the squeeze bottle dispense a small “moat” of smoke paprika oil around the pea puree. place the gilled salmon on top of the puree. Arrange the kale chips around the fish.

Finish with a dollop of each horseradish and caviar.

Available at

000 Street Street Street Te l . 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1730 Corydon Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba 17300K3 Corydon Avenue R3N Winnipeg, Manitoba T 204.489.1001 204.489.1001 info@vittorio-rossi-clothiers.ca info@vittorio-rossi-clothiers.ca www.vittoriorossiclothiers.ca www.vittoriorossiclothiers.ca FineLifestyles

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Corydon

A New Location to Suit All Your Needs

By Courtney Tait Photos Shawn Fillion

P

eepers Swimwear has recently expanded into a spacious 1300 sq. ft location on Corydon Avenue, enabling Winnipeg’s

go to swimwear boutique to increase their selection and offer new products and services. “We saw the need for more variety to accommodate our customer’s needs, and the new location allows us to do that,” says Donna.

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One of the new products now available at Peepers’ Swimwear new location are stand-up paddle boards (SUP). Deadfish Paddleboards is a local company that designed it’ SUP’s for the lakes and rivers of Manitoba. They feature a double concave hull and a solid core design for increased stability, plus include gorgeous bamboo inlay decks. These premium boards are ideal for our customers, as many of them try this exciting new sport during their winter get-

aways and were looking to find these boards locally for their summer holidays.

In addition to paddleboards, Peepers has recently partnered with FareConnect Travel. They can now offer their customers the convenience of booking a vacation from their new location. “We truly enjoy hearing about our customer’s travel adventures, and now we can offer them expert advice on their next trip.

Peepers Swimwear can now boast it has the largest selection in the city.

Every customer is unique, and they all have a set of challenges, some the same, some different.

Rarely does a woman come in and say… I can hardly wait to try on swimwear! It can often be very daunting task. Donna and her team are experts in helping women find swimwear they look and feel good in.

“People are surprised by all the options,” says Donna. They can mix and match the sizes and styles, choosing from bottoms such as regular, full coverage to tini-tiny, retro high waisted, swim skirts, shorts, or skorts paired with any number of swim tops to find what is right for them.

Staying true to their motto ‘A Suit for Every Body’, the boutique offers a vast range of women’s swimwear from sizes 2 to 26. From bikinis to tankini’s, one pieces and swimdresses, a line of mastectomy swimwear and a full range of cup sizes,

As Peepers continues to grow, Donna says they will keep adding products and services. “Because the business is owner operated, and we can react to what our customers want,” she says. “We truly enjoy our time with our customers and will continue to build on that relationship.

One of the best parts is seeing people leave the store happy.”

Peepers Swimwear 866 Corydon Ave. 204.474.2861 info@peepersswimwear.ca www.peepersswimwear.ca

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Corydon

Second Time Sensational For the Fashion-Forward

By Tonya Lambert Photos Beautiful Beginning Photography

S

econd Sensation Boutique is the place where fashionforward consumers go to shop.

Second Sensation in Winnipeg carries gently-used, pre-loved upscale designer fashions, high-end footwear and accessories.

Whether you are looking for a beautiful Coach handbag, a stunning suit by Chanel or a pair of glamourous Manolo Blahnik shoes, Second Sensation is the place to go

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for trendy styles and designer fashions at a fraction of the original price. Indeed, this chic boutique is listed on the federal government employees’ website as one of the places you must visit when travelling to Winnipeg!

Located in the Little Italy district of trendy Corydon, Second Sensation’s eye-catching window displays draw in many customers who are surprised to discover that it is a consignment store. This immaculate store

with its ever-changing selection of luxury labels proves that designer brands do not have to come with a high price tag.

Midge Elias and her staff provide clients with a personalized shopping experience.

“Retail therapy is always good,” chuckles Midge, who likes to share a laugh with her customers. The experienced and knowledgeable staff is passionate about fashion and love helping other women realize their dreams. With clothing and

accessories for all sizes and every occasion, the sales staff will help you to find the perfect look and give you friendly and honest advice. If you find that must-have item, but the fit is not quite right, Midge has a seamstress who will make the necessary adjustments.

Second Sensation has been part of the Winnipeg fashion scene since 1989. Over the years, the store has established a broad base of 2,500 loyal consignors from as far away as New York City, Washington DC and Los Angeles. Second Sensation only accepts items that are in “like new” condition and are no more than two years of age. All items are steam cleaned and are on the floor within a week.

When you entrust your clothes to Midge at Second Sensations, you can rest assured that they will be well cared for and that you will receive the best possible price for them. Second Sensation also receives never-worn, chic, new outfits from several women’s boutiques, as well as pre-owned fur coats that have been professionally stored.

Midge and the staff at Second Sensation understand that a woman feels more confident when she knows she looks sensational. That is why they feel strongly about helping all women look their very best. From assisting customers in the shop to donating graduation gowns and back-to-work clothes to charitable organizations, the Second Sensation staff help Winnipeg’s women fulfill their goals and aspirations.

Midge has an unbelievably great memory for names, faces and style preferences — something that comes from truly caring about her customers. When the store receives new items which Midge knows a particular client would love, she will call to let her know. It is this personalized, caring service combined with designer brands at fantastic prices that makes Second Sensation Boutique Winnipeg’s premiere consignment store.

Second Sensation Boutique 204.475.0457 www.secondsensation.com

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Corydon

BACK AND Better thAN ever!

Written by Donna Stach Photos by Shawn Fillion and Veronica Tulloch

Discreetly nestled a few steps below Corydon Avenue is La Scala Café and Scaletta’s, a distinctive 3,000 square foot event space suited to a range of Corporate & Special Events.

Building on a 24 year reputation as the place to go for consistently great food, recent renovations include lush design elements, large scale Tony Tascano originals and high definition video screens. The late night menu, BOSE sound system and pool table add excitement to any occasion. Guests can appreciate the color-morphing bar counters, large aquarium and the professional, personalized service. Outside boasts Corydon’s prime people watching patio. Private lounge and customizable menu options are available as are sit-down and stand-up receptions. Located at 725 Corydon.

Reservations recommended. Phone: (204) 474-2750

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La Scala Café 725 Corydon perry@lascalacafe.ca 204.474.2750

Super Foods Spec-CELLular!

By Donna Stach Photos Shawn Fillion and Veronica Tulloch

Perry Scaletta Health & Sport Consultant, La Scala Café

P

rofessional cycling champion and business owner, Perry Scaletta, knows all about the potency of whole food plant extracts that repair your body at the cellular level. “We live in a world where more and more people are suffering from a variety of illness. By eating nutrient-dense super meal, we can counteract today’s face-paced lifestyles by making our cells “happy”. As a distributor of Purium Health Products and a nutritional consultant, I believe in the rejuvenating benefits of plants and that natural, dramatic and lifelong results really can be achieved.”

La Scala Café proudly serves SOZO CoffeeBerry™ coffee, the world’s healthiest coffee with ingredients that are actually medicinal! What could be better than ending a exceptional meal with a European-style cup of java? It could change your life and it tastes really good. With a higher antioxidant value than any other fruit or vegetable, SOZO offers incredible benefits to the mind and body.

L.O.V.E Super Meal™ Live, Organic, Vegan, Energy.

Email perry@cafelascala.ca.

My Recipe For Life • Add 4 scoops of L.O.V.E. to 16 oz of water, coconut water, juice or your favorite creamy beverage (almond, coconut or hemp milk), mix thoroughly • Shake and wait one minute prior to drinking

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Corydon

A Modern Movement

A

By Ryan Bowman Photos Leif Norman

s the clock approaches five on a flawless Friday afternoon in May, the patio at Teo’s & Mano a Mano fills with thirsty young professionals.

Since opening in August of 2013, the restaurant and lounge at 691 Corydon Ave., has become a hotspot for Winnipeggers to grab lunch, gather for drinks after work or party the night away. Entering its first full summer, general manager Charles Garcia expects it to become a major player in the city’s patio scene, as well.

“Corydon is the heart of the city,” says Garcia.

“It’s the most vibrant part of Winnipeg in the summer, and we’re looking forward to becoming a part of that.”

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With its high-topped tables looking out at one of the busiest sidewalks in the city, the patio is a perfect complement to the restaurant’s “upscale-casual” cocktail lounge, upstairs dining room and “secret” upstairs patio. And while there is no shortage of pubs and bistros lining the street around it, Teo’s & Mano a Mano offers a unique and modern approach that Garcia says sets it apart.

“We have this open concept design that’s popular in places like Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver, and I think that draws people in,” says Garcia, who has more than 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry. “We want to be more of a modern ultra-lounge, to bring a little bit of downtown into the suburbs.”

From its industrial-sized garage door, to its

Happy Hour drink specials to its nightly live music, the restaurant does just that.

Given its prime location, it attracts not only the business people from the city’s centre, but also a steady flow of casual foot traffic from the surrounding neighbourhoods.

It’s not just the trendy vibe that will have people talking about Teo’s & Mano a Mano, however. It’s the food that will have them raving. Based on successful local restaurateur Sam Colisimo’s vision to bring back authentic Italian comfort food, executive chef Dustin Pajak has created a menu best described as “traditional with a twist.”

“With its history as Winnipeg’s Little Italy, it was important for us to get back to that classic Italian cuisine,” Garcia says. “But we twisted it into something a little more fun, a little more modern.”

The result was three different menus for three different crowds.

“We have a lunch menu, we have a dinner menu and we have a late-night menu,” Garcia says. “The people who come here at lunch wouldn’t necessarily come here for dinner, but I think catering to these different crowds makes us a little bit unique and keeps new people coming in. ” As more and more people stop in for delicious food or drinks after work, Garcia expects Teo’s & Mano a Mano to be at the forefront of a contemporary movement in one of the city’s most storied communities.

“Most of the places on the strip here have been around for 30 or 40 years, so they’re more old-school,” he says. “We think outside of the box, we’re a little bit trendier.

We want to be a trendsetter.”

Based on what they’ve accomplished, they already are.

already

Teo’s & Mano a Mano 691 Corydon Ave. 204.414.6305

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DEPARTMENT Corydon

A Journey in Self-Discovery

By Brandi Parnell Photos Leif Norman

I

t is not uncommon for people to suddenly find themselves moving through the motions of life. It may be more common to hear sentiments of uncertainty, confusion, and quests for more than mediocrity.

Lisa Tjaden can relate. In fact, she found herself in that spot of ‘wanting more’ somewhere in her mid-30s, which was quite stressful for a mother of two. She had tried the conventional route of figuring out what she wanted to do as a career. Like many people these days, she didn’t want to just work, she wanted to love her hours spent on the job.

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These days, she does just that. In fact, as the popular proverb goes, she doesn’t work a day in her life because she loves what she’s doing.

In other words, she has found herself.

Radiance Gifts is a quaint shop on Corydon Avenue that is filled with fascinating finds and good energy. Lisa found herself there after dismissing what she once believed was a store for hippies. Whether it called to her or intuitively she found it, she and her sister Shauna, a sound-healing therapist, have owned the family business for more than seven years. This fall the store will celebrate its 19th birthday — still following the same guiding principals it had when it first opened.

“Nineteen years later, we still have the same great energy. One of the blessings about Radiance is that every one of our gifted healers are intuitive in different modalities.” In other words, the people Lisa works with are more than staff. They are talented individuals who choose to help others in their quest for self-discovery.

In recent years, there has been a blossoming in the alternative soul growth movement. Yoga and meditation are mainstream options for stretching the body and mind. Professional athletes, corporate executives, men and women alike are open-minded to alternative options for relieving stress.

“

At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want.

—Lao Tzu

”

ABOVE Lisa Tjaden

“People are starting to acknowledge that emotional and physical needs are directly tied to spiritual needs,” remarks Lisa. As such, many people live lives rich in various methods of wellness. Acupuncture, natural medicine, reiki, past life hypnotherapy — are all within reach.

Radiance offers a wide range of classes from tarot training to astrology, they have one of the largest selections of gemstones in western Canada, and host book signings. Some of their radiant items for purchase include jewellery, books, CDs and many different healing tools.

Their goal is to facilitate whatever you may need at whatever stage of your life. Let a healing crystal choose you, buy a allergen

reducing salt lamp, treat yourself to a deck of spirit guide cards. Learn to balance your chakras, keep negative energy at bay, draw in more of what you desire. Some people are far along the spiritual path, while others have stepped off and are just trying to get back in balance. Still there are those who are just beginning to listen to the whisperings of their heart.

“Traditionally, society has looked to other sources to satisfy our spiritual needs. More and more people are looking inward. We’re here to help you guide your own intuition to find what you need.”

Radiance Gifts 7 – 875 Corydon Avenue 204.284.4231 www.radiancegifts.com |

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Corydon

Dine the French Way:

With Fresh, Local Food and Real Butter ByHenny HennyBuffinga BuffingaPhotos PhotosBTL BTLWedding Wedding By

W

hile living in Paris, Larissa Webster learned to appreciate the essence of French cuisine from her partner Olivier, originally from Tours, France. After traveling all over the world and perfecting his trade, Olivier had acquired immense experience in preparing French food. Together they decided to open the Frenchway Café in Winnipeg; Olivier would oversee the cuisine and Larissa would be in charge of the business.

They wanted to open their own place that did things the French way: serving simple,

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fresh food that speaks for itself. Oh, and everything made with butter. “You will never find margarine in this building,” says Webster. Now in an expanded location on Lilac Avenue, Webster is running Frenchway with her fantastic staff and her children who love to help out after school.

“I joke about it, but I say that I have my kids, and my frenchway family,” she says.

“My staff is very close, and a lot of them have been with me since we started in this location in 2011.” Webster’s staff is very close to their regular customers, which creates a real family atmosphere. “One

or two of my staff will have an order up before the customer is even through the door,” Webster explains. “I have a team here - there’s a real sense of community among us.”The food at Frenchway is made with fresh ingredients, and Webster tries to source local as much as possible. “There’s a lot of care that goes into the food here,” she says. “Our breads are made from hand, our soup is made from scratch.”

Education is important to Webster, for herself and her customers. Frenchway offers limited gluten-free and vegan

options, and they have plans to expand their offerings of diabetic friendly fare.

“I want people to realize what they are putting into their bodies,” Webster says.

“I’m trying to share my philosophy of the importance of eating fresh food. Our goal here is to support local as much as possible.” While her bakery offers many tasty treats such as macaroons and croissants, Webster’s philosophy is that fresh, whole foods are best, and everything in moderation.Frenchway Café is now open seven days a week. They offer allday breakfast and brunch, and they are expanding into the evening for special events. Frenchway offers tailored catering services and plans to host special events like a family pizza night or live music on the patio. The cafe supports local artists including some of Webster’s own staff and plans to host a fun night with a local psychic medium.

The Dreams Take Flight campaign is dear to Webster who teams up with Air Canada staff to host a yearly dinner. Donations for the charity are accepted at all evening events.

Webster puts a lot of herself into her work, and has created an extended family from her staff and customers. By buying local she has also developed a great network within the business community that fosters a friendly atmosphere in the neighbourhood rather than one of competition.

“I’m touched by a lot of what my customers give me in terms of positivity and encouragement,” she says. “It can be a trying business, but I do feel the love and support from the customers and the community.”

The Frenchway Café 238 Lilac Ave, Winnipeg 204.421.9002 www.frenchway.ca

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Dining Out

One Juicy Bite at a time

By Susana Segura Photos Shelley Roy Photography

C

orydon Avenue in Winnipeg, Manitoba has long been a favourite year-round haunt of most Winnipeggers, but this is never more obvious than during Manitoba’s glorious summers, when families and singles alike converge on this bustling street in ever-increasing numbers.

An iconic Winnipeg restaurant located at 619 Corydon Ave., Daly Burger has served the

public for the better part of two decades as an establishment known for its a fresh, delicious menu, combined with the rarity of value. The current owner has had the pleasure of Daly Burger’s care for just over a decade, utilizing his many years of restaurant experience to ensure the best dining experience. Ask most Winnipeggers about Daly Burger’s World Famous Burgers and other menu items and the response is overwhelmingly positive.

Served by friendly staff in an atmosphere inviting to singles, groups of friends, date night couples or families, Daly Burger delivers fantastic taste at great value. In keeping with that concept of inclusiveness, there are reduced portion sizes on the menu for children; made-toorder smaller hamburgers, salads and hot dogs at corresponding prices.

Daly Burger offers a menu filled with OPPOSITE PAGE Names , names

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choices that can satisfy even the fussiest of eaters and food prepared from scratch using fresh ingredients. Local ingredients are used whenever possible. From their fresh beef patties handmade when you order and served on a fresh-baked bun, to their pot of homemade chili bubbling away on the stove, a skilled, hands-on approach in the kitchen makes all the difference. The French fries and onion rings are hand cut, and the delicious gyros (made with your choice of lamb, beef or chicken) are delectably spiced and garnished with a tangy tzatziki. The chicken fingers, juicy chicken burgers and fresh grilled chicken entrées use only quality, local Manitoba chicken. The Ballpark-style hotdogs, redolent of summer and served on fresh

buns with your choice of toppings, make it possible to enjoy the rituals and tastes of the summer season in a year-round location.

New this year, just in time for the muchanticipated summer stroll, is the addition of delicious soft serve ice cream, perfect as the dessert finale to any meal or great on its own as a treat. For those who crave an extra bit of sweetness in their frozen treats, Daly Burger offers Flavour Burst cones, as well as creamy, frosted milkshakes in several flavours (including the cosmopolitan “Mocha” and “Cappuccino”) and are a treat at any time of year.

Perhaps even more exciting for those in the 18-plus crowd, is that Daly Burger soon-tobe licenced, serving a variety of cold beers to accompany their tasty menu choices,

making it the perfect stop after work, for a lunch out, or during a weekend outing. The combination of a juicy, fresh, grilled burger with the toppings of your choice, crispy home fries and an icy cold beer are what defines summer with friends and family.

Long a staple for Winnipeggers “in-theknow,” Daly Burger offers fresh, good food in an inviting atmosphere, for a reasonable price.

Fresh in both their menu items and their innovative changes to improve your dining experience, the Daly Burger has its doors open for you, and they await with a smile.

Daly Burger 619 corydon ave, Winnipeg 204.269.3259 www.dalyburgers.com

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Unique jewellery and giftware, for all tastes and budgets Featuring Michael Aram Collection Bridal Registry Available

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11-2090 Corydon Ave Winnipeg, MB • 204-896-5652 • www.facebook.com/lolaboutiquewpg

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Winnipeg

Helping you create your real estate Lifestyle!

We each have our own lifestyle which is created by our tastes, style and financial means.

At Lifestyles Real Estate Ltd., we work with you to achieve the real estate lifestyle that is the best fit for your current designs.

Cyndy Erickson REALTOR速 and BROKER

cell: 204.791.7151 office: 204.421.SOLD cyndyerickson@live.com www.lifestylesrealestate.ca