MARCH – APRIL 2017
York Life MARKHAM | RICHMOND HILL | STOUFFVILLE | THORNHILL
HOOP DREAMS
How Ted Badner brought world-class basketball to the community level
YORK LIFE: MARKHAM, RICHMOND HILL, STOUFFVILLE, THORNHILL EDITION
SPRING FORWARD • fresh home decor • hot fitness trends • top travel apps
PLUS:
Silken Laumann on overcoming fear
Delicious EASTER Recipes
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contents Cover photo: Jim Craigmyle
m a R C h / a P R I l 2 01 7
9
65
living Well
hoMe
travel
news, tips and fun facts
28
48
in the croWd a Chinese new year celebration in markham
66
31
liKe a local 33
18
get calM and carry on care at hoMe a roundup of at-home healthcare services
22
oral fixation Expert advice for a healthier smile
24
orange is the neW fit orangetheory fitness is gaining a loyal following. here’s what you need to know
4 | York Life March April 2017
cushy WorK adding a fresh, inviting space to your home can be as easy as a pillow toss
health
advice for chilling out on the go
tidy transforMation Easy tips to spring clean your home from top to bottom
Chic Thrills, Stouffville
16
a Place in the sun an addition brought year-round enjoyment for this Keswick family
Meet you in Myrtle beach looking for economical time in the sun? Cast your eyes toward the South Carolina coast
51
the fab 5 our short list of expert-approved travel apps
52
chasing the tuscan sun Want to get the most out of this romantic slice of Italy? Take it slow
food & drinK 36
easter Made easy! delicious recipes for your holiday gathering
40
42
features 58
Morning glories
advice for chilling out on the go
hail hallouMi! a cheese that doesn’t melt? Think of the possibilities!
in the gaMe how Ted Badner brought a world-class basketball facility to the community level
62
the gift of fear Silken lauman is helping others overcome their anxieties
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editor’s note
York Life Publisher Dana Robbins Regional General Manager Shaun Sauve Editor Jacqueline Kovacs
Here’s to Fresh Starts The start of spring, with its welcome warmer, longer days, is a great time to change up your life for the better. For inspiration, look to our cover story. Read how Thornhill’s Ted Badner turned his own passion for basketball into a stunning world-class, multi-court facility that has a positive impact on all those who enjoy it. The story about his steadfast determination starts on page 58. If you’re looking for healthy lifestyle changes, find out how Orangetheory Fitness is putting a new spin on group workouts (p. 23), discover easy ways to keep calm in the face of stressful situations (p. 16) and learn what it takes to have your healthiest smile (p. 21). We also show you how to freshen up your home, starting with a good spring cleaning (p. 31). Of course, nothing refreshes like a change of scenery, and this issue offers two destinations for sunseekers, but for different reasons. For a quick getaway, it’s hard to beat South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach (p. 48), with its famously long shoreline, top-notch dining and range of accommodations. Bonus: Our Canadian dollar is being accepted at par. For a different kind of fun in the sun, turn to page 52 and discover how taking things slow is the best way to enjoy the delights of Tuscany. Happy spring! Jacqueline Kovacs
Three t hings I learned this issue
copy editor Deanna Dority Contributors Liz Bruckner, Jim Craigmyle, Heather Greenwood-Davis, Naomi Hiltz, Sue Kanhai, David Li, Joann MacDonald, Leslee Mason, Julie Miguel, Rachel Naud, Tracy Smith Advertising Director Maureen Christie Advertising Manager Mara Sepe Advertising Sales Amanda Andolina, Pam Burgess, Dawn Chaykowsky, Joelle Hawley, Ryan McCluskey, Anita Phelps, Tony Segreti, Judy Starr, Willen Tam Regional Director, Production and Creative Services Katherine Porcheron Editorial Design Brenda Boon, Nick Bornino, LuAnne Turner Director of Business Administration Phil Sheehan Director of Distribution Mike Banville
York Life Markham, Richmond Hill, Thornhill and Stouffville is published by Metroland Media, York Region. Statements, opinions and points of view are those of the sources and writers and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or York Life magazine. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written consent from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Submissions are welcome from writers and photographers. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material.
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6 | York Life March April 2017
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living well
Say Cheese! Turning that frown upside down does more than make your face look better — it’s also good for your health. The simple act of smiling can help regulate blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, lower our cancer risk and just plain make us feel better. But compared with children, we grown-ups don’t grin very much: adults typically smile 20 times a day, while infants and toddlers flash their teeth (or gums) up to 400 times daily.
York Life March April 2017 | 9
living well | Health
working (out) for the weekend If you’re one of those people whose lifestyle relegates exercise to weekends, take heart. Yes, ideally we’d all get at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity, but it turns out that squeezing those minutes into your days off still lowers your risk of death from all causes by 30 per cent, compared with inactive adults, according to a recent study in the U.K.’s JAMA Internal Medicine. To make it count, though, you need either 150 minutes of moderate (sweatinducing) or 75 minutes of vigorous (conversationstopping) exercise.
struggling to lose weight? Help might be a phone call away. Really. In a recent study published in the journal Obesity, researchers coached one group of dieters over the phone and provided no coaching to a second group. After one year, 30 per cent of people in the phone group lost 10 pounds and were on a downward weight trajectory, while those without telephone support saw no significant weight change. So, the next time those cravings hit, try reaching for your phone.
the truth about turmeric Turmeric may have lost its golden edge. The bright yellow spice, often used in curries, has been touted as a natural defence against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, thanks to its antioxidant properties. But recent research published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry says the spice doesn’t live up to its hype. One reason: curcumin, the bestknown chemical in turmeric, not only has limited health benefits, but also is not easily absorbed by the body. But don’t empty your spice jar just yet. Other nutritionists point out that combinations of foods, rather than just single ingredients, can have positive, synergistic effects on the body. Bonus: Turmeric adds flavour to food, without excess salt, sugar or fat.
10 | York Life March April 2017
living well | home
Spring Into Colour With spring in sight, it’s time to think about a wardrobe change — and that includes inside your home. We spoke with Aurora’s Lisa Worth of Worth Interior Design (worthinteriordesign.com) for her top three trends in home decor this spring and summer. 1. Kick up the colour: Buh-bye beige! “Green is the hot colour this year,” Worth says. Embrace emerald and mossy greens, along with jewel tones such as blush. Don’t want to go big? Keep investment pieces, like couches and chairs, neutral and colour via pillows and throws. 2. Beyond boho: “Mix it up,” Worth says. “No more matchymatchy.” Combine patterns without worrying about it, she advises. “Loosen up and think authentic.” 3. Bye DIY: Seek out the real artists. “We’re seeing a return to artisanal finishes,” Worth says. “For the longest time, we had a lot of do-it-yourself. Now that’s come full circle to wanting to see craftsmanship again.”
Really recharge When you shut down for the night, do you also plug in your smartphone? Then you’ll appreciate this nightstand with wireless charging capabilities from Ikea. Instead of searching for your charger, simply place your phone on the plus-sign symbol and rest easy. Note, though, that some phone models may require a special case and the red version of the night table doesn’t include wireless charging. SELJE nightstand, $49.99, ikea.ca.
Declutter with a click Getting rid of unwanted furnishings, electronics, clothing and even cars just got easier, thanks to letgo, an app that helps you buy and sell locally and across North America. Letgo enables users to post an item for sale online in seconds by simply taking a photo. Using artificial intelligence and image-recognition technology, the app then automatically labels and categorizes the seller’s listing. You can also chat online with the sellers. ca.letgo.com.
Fitting Advice Ever faced this nightmare: You’ve bought a stunning new sofa, but can’t get it through your front door? Next time, ask if your retailer offers design services to do the doorway (or stairway) math. Or, go online where sites such as planyourroom.com help you create a floor plan to scale.
York Life March April 2017 | 11
living well | Food & Drink
more reasons to maple syrup
tap into
It’s sap-running season! If that weren’t good news enough, consider this: When you treat yourself and your family to pure Canadian maple syrup poured over pancakes or waffles, you’re actually doing your bodies a world of good. The only product in our diet directly from a plant’s sap, maple syrup boasts 63 antioxidants that can help prevent or stave off cancer and diabetes. It also has high levels of zinc and manganese, great for the heart and immune system. Pretty sweet, eh?
milking home turf Rolling Meadow Dairy is taking the term “grassroots” to a new level with Ontario’s first grass-fed dairy. The two-year-old company works with small southwestern Ontario farms that, in season, graze their cattle mostly outdoors. “They eschew corn and concentrated starch in favour of grass,” Rolling Meadow Dairy CEO Matthew von Teichman explains. The result is a richer-tasting milk with a “deeper nutritional profile,” including up to
300 times more heart-healthy omega-3s. It’s also healthier for the cows, whose digestive systems are better suited to grass. “In season, our cows spend 80 per cent of their time outside grazing,” von Teichman says. That’s even longer than cows used for organic milk. You can find Rolling Meadow Dairy milk, yogurt, butter and other products in health food stores and in the natural section of larger grocery stores.
the power of pIStAChIoS Another way to drink responsibly Calling all wine lovers: Why not celebrate the arrival of spring in southern Ontario with local wines made responsibly? Southbrook Vineyards, Canada’s first biodynamic winery, produces a range of red and white organic wines at various price levels, and will deliver them right to your door. Worth a try: its creamy 2015 Triomphe Chardonnay ($22.95), with flavours of pear and peach brûlée — perfect with seafood, chicken, and pork with apples. Learn more at southbrook.com.
12 | York Life March April 2017
For a treat that packs a powerful, nutritious punch, it’s hard to beat pistachios. In one 49-nut serving, you get 6 grams of protein, 3 grams of fibre, 24 per cent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin B6 — and only 159 calories. Plus, according to the so-called pistachio effect, based on studies by Jim Painter of Eastern Illinois University, the time it takes to de-shell the nut, combined with seeing a pile of discarded shells, may make us eat less.
living well | travel
Choose your Canadian Adventure With our nation’s 150th birthday party underway, there’s no better time to take in more Canada. With that in mind, Air Canada Vacations has launched its Go Canada Collection, featuring a variety of getaways, near and far, that showcase this country. Go by plane, train or car (or a combination thereof) to enjoy everything “from urban chic to Arctic splendor, from Maritime charm to the forests of the Pacific and the great Canadian Rockies.” What’s on offer? Skiers can enjoy packages that
include flight, hotel, lift ticket and access to the slopes of Banff, Sun Peaks and Whistler in the west, and Massif, Mont–Sainte-Anne and Tremblant in the east. Wildlife aficionados can get up close with belugas, grizzlies and polar bears, orca whales and harp seal pups. Those who like things more leisurely may enjoy Fly & Rail itineraries that include Rocky Mountaineer, Alaska Cruise or “From Lobster to Poutine” in Atlantic Canada. Find out more at vacations. aircanada.com.
Another kind of escape
Want to experience international art, without leaving York Region? Head to the fifth annual Vaughan International Film Festival, held May 15 to 19 at Cineplex Vaughan Cinemas. This five-day celebration of film not only showcases and awards films from North America and Europe, it also shines a spotlight on fresh, new student talent. Plus, VFF devotes a day to seminars to help those in the film industry polish their talents, pick up new skills and ask questions from those in the know. For tickets and information, go to vaughanfilmfestival.com.
Vaughan International Film Festival
Rest for the Weary Traveller There are two kinds of travellers: those who can sleep on planes and those who can’t. And most of us want to be part of the can-sleep set. To help rest your jetlagged head, we’ve rounded up three innovate neck pillows that just might help you visit the land of nod before your final destination.
infinity Pillow This pillow’s infinity shape means that you can twist, wrap or bundle it for customized comfort. Bonus: Its soft, bamboo fabric is antibacterial, hypoallergenic and machine washable. $39, huzidesign.com/product/ infinity-pillow.
trtl Pillow Pronounced “turtle,”
this scarf-like head support is soft and fleecy on the outside, but has a strong rib on the inside so you can contour it to hold your neck, head or jaw. It’s about half the size of a traditional neck pillow and is machine washable. $39.95, trtletravel.com.
J-Pillow Don’t let the odd shape fool you. This pillow is designed to your head and neck, but also support your chin, to avoid nodding forward as you’re nodding off. Plus its 3-D filling means it squishes into a compact ball you can easily stuff into your carry-on bag when you arrive, all refreshed. $tk, jpillow.com. York Life March April 2017 | 13
Giving Back
to the Community As a community-based media group reaching more than 300,000 households, we take seriously our responsibility to support community initiatives that help make York Region a great place to live, work and play. We support a wide variety of causes including health care and research, social services, education, arts and culture, community festivals, the environment, youth initiatives, volunteerism and much more.
health
Best Medicine We all know that exercise is good for our health, but researchers are finding out just how good it is. Recent studies have shown that regular moderate activity (like a walk brisk enough to make conversation challenging) helps reduce blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Plus, it boosts mental health as well as bone and joint health. So get moving — doctor’s orders.
York Life March April 2017 | 15
KEEP calm and carry on Stressed over getting, well, stressed? Take a deep breath and read our relaxing advice for chilling out on the go B y J oan n MacDon al d
Sure, you can find your inner Zen at your weekly yoga class, but how do you stay calm and cool when dealing with an angry customer or when you’re running late — and stuck in traffic? Meghan MacKinnon, a naturopathic doctor in Aurora, shares her tips on getting to your happy place, wherever you are. No yoga mat required.
16 | York Life March April 2017
Health | De-Stress Your business meeting is getting tense. The office bully has taken control of the meeting and you’re in fight-or-flight mode. Your body is doing what it’s supposed to do — secreting adrenaline and noradrenaline in response to stress. It’s your job to tell your body things are okay. Guide your nervous system away from a stress response by consciously controlling your breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose to a count of five, then slowly exhale. Repeat the sequence until you feel calmer. If work meetings consistently tend to become strained, rethink your morning brew. Caffeine falsely elevates adrenaline. “As an alternative to a more stimulating cup of coffee, try having green tea, which has less caffeine as well as L-theanine, which acts as a calmer or balancer for the nervous system,” MacKinnon suggests. A cup of chamomile tea is caffeine-free and provides physical and mental relaxation. You’re running late — and stuck in traffic. When minutes stretch into hours and you’re still staring at the bumper of the car ahead of you, of course you’re bound to get frustrated. But ask yourself, how serious a problem is this? Maybe you’re stressed because you’re late for an appointment, or maybe you’re just eager to get where you want to go. First-world problems. “Being late doesn’t have to become a serious long-term stress. Your body and mind will recover,” MacKinnon says. “These types of rationalizations can help immensely in the moment to send the message to your body that it’s okay.” You’re trying to get the family out the door and nobody is cooperating. Ain’t nobody got time for that. But before you let loose with a primal scream, take a breather. “Try something called alternate nasal breathing,” MacKinnon suggests. Plug one nostril with your finger while inhaling. This will help slow your breathing if you’re having difficulty doing it on your own. “Just as you can’t expect to run a marathon without training, the more deep-breathing practice you do, the better you’ll get at it,” she says. And you might want to get up earlier tomorrow. Your mom criticizes you for the umpteenth time. Nobody likes a critic, but try not to take it to heart. “Gently explain your feelings and position on the subject matter and try not to react explosively,” MacKinnon advises. Recognize patterns in how you usually respond, and practise calmer, more effective communication to avoid sending your body into a stress response. “People behaving angrily or in a hostile manner are often looking for an argument, so give them the opposite — a calm, quiet demeanor,” she says. Speak softly and slowly to diffuse a tense situation — for both your sakes.
Up your inner bliss Drink away your stress No, not that kind of drink! Many people are deficient in magnesium, a mineral that helps to relax the muscles, body and mind. Natural Calm is a powdered supplement that turns into an effervescent drink when mixed with water or juice to promote healthy magnesium levels.
The sweet smell of sleep If stress keeps you up at night, tuck a lavender sachet under your pillow. The scent of lavender has calming properties.
There’s an app for that “Meditation is a great way to get your nervous system in shape and teach your body what it feels like to be calm,” naturopathic doctor Meghan MacKinnon says. She recommends the app Stop, Breathe & Think, which provides guided meditations for beginners.
Stress wrecking your sleep? Try tucking a sachet of lavender under your pillow and let its calming scent help relax you.
York Life March April 2017 | 17
health | Home Care
Care at Home With wait lists and demand for space in seniors care facilities at an all-time high, many are opting for in-home care. Here’s a look at what’s out there By rachel n auD
18 | York Life March April 2017
I
n case you haven’t heard, as a nation, we’re not getting any younger. Here in Ontario alone, the 65-and-over set is expected to more than double from the 2.2 million in 2015 to over 4.5 million by 2041. York Region was home to more than 120,000 seniors in 2012, but is expected to have 310,000 people aged 65-plus by 2031. In Simcoe Muskoka, it’s a similar picture, with the number of people aged 65 and up expected to reach 218,800 by 2014 — that's double what it was in 2011 — making it the largest population growth area for that region.
And while longer lifespans are a testament to improved health and quality of life, our infrastructure isn’t nearly robust enough to accommodate this demographic change. York Region currently has 28 longterm-care homes providing 3,534 beds — far short of what the projected senior boom will require. With those troubling stats, it’s little wonder that many seniors and their families are choosing from the wide range of in-home care options available in southern Ontario. Curious about what that can look like? Here’s a glimpse at some of the home-care companies in Simce County and York Region.
Powered by Saint Elizabeth™
bayshore hoMe health
saint elizabeth and elizz
Since 1985, Bayshore Home Health has been providing customized home-care services based on the needs of clients and their families.
This national not-for-profit healthcare provider has been operating for more than a century, and visits 18,000 clients every day. Through Elizz, Saint Elizabeth also supports the needs of family caregivers. Elizz provides private services beyond what is covered by Community Care Access Centres (CCACs), including home-care services, and virtual caregiver support services for family members.
services: Bayshore can assist families with all care needs, ranging from housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation, grocery shopping and general errands through to assistance with personal care, general nursing and palliative care. It’s also a provider of services to the provincial government home-care program and eldercare. (The Ontario government provides home-care services to individuals who meet certain criteria. The government contracts out these services to organizations, such as Bayshore.) cost: Some services are covered through the government home-care program. Where policies allow, Bayshore can bill directly to the large insurers in Canada, so families don’t need to worry about submitting invoices. Services purchased independently or to top up government-funded care are billed to the client or an insurer directly. contact: bayshore.ca
services: Elizz offers a wide range of home healthcare services provided by nurses (RN/ RPN), registered dieticians, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers and others. Elizz’s virtual support services include counselling, as well as access to caregiver coaches and nurse advisers. cost: In Ontario, services provided through CCACs are government funded and free for patients. Elizz’s virtual home support services start at $22.50 per hour. Prices and availability for in-home care may depend on location. contact: saintelizabeth.com; elizz.com
york region: 905-944-9451 simcoe county: 705-722-8993
The Ontario government works to provide seniors with personal support, nursing and therapeutic needs. For a detailed list of services, visit health.gov.on.ca/en/common/system/services/ccac. York Life March April 2017 | 19
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health | Home Care
Home Instead
Nurse Next Door
Founded in 1994, Home Instead Senior Care provides personalized home-care services at all levels to help keep seniors safe and independent.
Founded in 2001, Nurse Next Door Home Care Services delivers flexible, affordable and quality care options to seniors.
Services: Seniors can access support for household duties, meals and nutrition, personal care and transportation, among other services. Also specializes in helping seniors living with dementia, Alzheimer’s and other chronic illnesses.
Available: Throughout southern Ontario.
Cost: Home Instead can tailor a unique homecare arrangement to fit individual lifestyles and budgets, with rates based on specific care needs and location. Contact: homeinstead.com
Services: Nurse Next Door’s home-care services for seniors range from weekly companionship to around-the-clock care from a registered nurse. With its “Happier Aging” focus, the company aims to get clients back to doing what they love. Cost: Ranges, depending on both the services required and the area. Contact: nursenextdoor.com; 1-877-588-8609
York Region: 905-597-4757 Simcoe County: 705-503-5501
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6050 Hwy. 7 East one block east of Markham Rd. on Hwy. 7 York Life March April 2017 | 21
ora fixation health | oral Hygiene
While staying cavity-free is important, it shouldn’t be your only dental priority A healthy smile is a beautiful smile, and we all (should!) know the importance of practising good oral hygiene to thwart cavitycausing bacteria. But don’t let being filling-free lull you into a false sense of security. Here are a few additional mouth-health issues to keep in mind. By liZ BrucKner
22 | York Life March April 2017
known as bruxism) often happens while you sleep and can Gingivitis and gum disease cause headaches, earaches, jaw pain and damaged teeth. “It According to Dr. Euan Swan, manager of dental procan wear down enamel, increase your tooth sensitivity and grams at the Canadian Dental Association, problems start even cause broken teeth,” Swan says. when bacteria is allowed to build up on teeth, which in While many people experiencing bruxism may benefit turn leads to gum inflammation. “When this happens,” he from using a plastic night guard, Riojas-Ozturk says explains, “debris and oral biofilm gradually increase on the treating the cause of the grinding is the best option for surface of teeth, causing redness in gums and eventually long-term relief. “There can be a host of reasons that may bleeding during flossing or brushing.” cause people to grind their teeth as they sleep, but finding Persistent bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the ways to manage that issue is the ideal solution,” she says. mouth are also common side effects of gum issues, says Dr. Her advice: Exercise more often, seek out counselling if Rebeca Riojas-Ozturk, a dentist at BWG Dental Centre you need to, or try a muscle relaxant before bed. “I also in Bradford. “Left unchecked, sensitivities in teeth and the advise patients who grind their teeth to avoid gum area will either start or increase and, if left chewing gum, as it trains your jaw muscles to progress, loose teeth and gums that pull to clench, and to start a habit of keepaway from teeth are likely.” ing their teeth apart during the day That said, keeping a handle on and at night by placing the tip of gingivitis and gum disease isn’t their tongue to the roof of their impossible. “Brushing twice a Teeth-grinders should avoid mouth.” day and regular daily flossing chewing gum, as it trains your will help remove the debris,” Chronically bad breath Swan says, “and rinsing with jaw muscles to clench. And While diligent oral hygiene an antiseptic mouth wash can — brushing twice a day, and also improve oral health.” try to keep your teeth apart daily flossing and using a Worried you may have early by placing your tongue on the mouth rinse — should rectify signs of gum disease? He admost instances of bad breath vises seeing your dentist for an roof of your mouth (“halitosis”), Swan says brushing evaluation as soon as you can. the surface of your tongue is also beneficial. Gum recession For chronic bad breath, see your Caused by several factors — overzealdentist to ensure there aren’t any underlying ous brushing and flossing, smoking, teeth oral issues. And should it persist, Swan suggests crowding, teeth grinding and periodontal disease visiting a physician, as some general diseases may be conare the most common — recession is what happens when tributing to ongoing odours. gum tissue lowers its position on the tooth, thereby exposing its roots. Yellow teeth According to Swan, while the condition is classically As we age, it’s natural that our teeth gradually lose their observed later in life, it can also present itself in younger white hue. “Each tooth has a hollow area inside it where adults, and is more likely to be an issue if a family history blood vessels and nerves are housed,” Swan says. “This of gum disease or recession is in play. hollow area decreases in space over time, and the result is If you’re experiencing recession or are trying to stave that the shade of white on teeth begins to yellow, regardit off, using a soft-bristle brush and swiping gently from less of how healthy and clean yours are.” above your gums to the biting surface of your teeth will Looking to brighten up? Try to minimize your coffee, help. Flossing daily to remove hard-to-reach bacteria tea, wine and staining foods intake, and do your best to between teeth is also important, as is seeing your dentist maintain great oral hygiene habits, Riojas-Ozturk says. regularly. “Gum recession is often easily dealt with if it’s “Brushing your teeth at least twice a day will help remove detected early enough,” Swan says, “but even if that’s not surface stains, as will using a whitening toothpaste. the case and the issue is more advanced, there are many Professional whitening is obviously the most effective, treatment options available.” longest-lasting option to brighten your smile, but it may not be right for every patient, so talk to your dentist if Teeth grinding you’re considering it.” Often a by-product of stress, teeth grinding (otherwise
York Life March April 2017 | 23
health | Fitness
24 | York Life March April 2017
Orange
fit
is the new
With its emphasis on pushing yourself as an individual while reaping the motivation of exercising as a group, Orangetheory Fitness is gaining a loyal following in southern Ontario. Here’s what you need to know. By JOANN MACDONALD
If, like many of us, you need a kick in the butt to get you to exercise, Orangetheory Fitness could be your taskmaster. Launched in 2010, it’s a new wave in fitness that seems prepared to last, with already some 350,000 members worldwide. Closer to home, Orangetheory opened a club in Barrie in 2016 and already has more than 500 members. In York, the chain’s Elgin Mills location in Richmond Hill opened in 2015 and grew to 700 members in just over a year; the club also has locations in Newmarket and Vaughan. What’s the attraction? This fitness trend combines the motivation of being in a group setting with the individualized results associated with a personal trainer. That means people at different fitness levels spur each other on, without having to work at the same pace. “No two people look the same on the treadmill because their fitness levels are very different,” says Monica Dawson, owner of the Elgin Mills club. “But they are all the same colour on the board.”
ing you to effortlessly burn extra calories for up to 36 hours. The base zone, meanwhile, is green, or 71 to 83 per cent of your maximum heart rate, also known as the fat-burning zone. When the coach calls for more, participants increase their speed or incline to get to the orange zone or “push” pace, with heart rates at 84 to 91 per cent. There’s even an “all out” pace, but don’t worry, you won’t have to stay there for very long.
Pushing is the key The key is pushing yourself for longer than you normally would. “Anyone at a gym gets to an uncomfortable zone, but did you stay there for the duration you needed to stay there?” Dawson says. “The coach is there to make sure you’re being challenged.” That challenge includes the routines. Exercisers move between treadmills, rowing machines and weight training, with members throughout the world doing the same work-
The Orange zone The “board” is a big screen displaying the heart rates of participants, all of whom have heart monitors strapped on as they move through the exercise circuit. With upbeat music pumping and a coach shouting encouragement, groups of sweaty Orangetheory members hit the treadmills and signature orange rowing machines en masse, checking the board to see when they’ve hit the orange zone. That’s where proponents say the “excess post-exercise oxygen consumption” effect kicks in, jump-starting metabolism and allowYork Life March April 2017 | 25
health | Fitness
out — a new one every day — created by the brand’s exercise physiologists. But unlike a traditional group fitness class, where you might feel obligated to perform like everyone else, Orangetheory asks you to compete only with yourself. “Psychologically, when you can’t keep up, it’s very emotionally deflating,” Dawson points out. “When you are working out with heart rate, it baselines everything.” Personalized achievements At the end of the workout, you’ll see a summary of your achievements, including calories burned, on the screen. You’ll also get an email summary, so you can track your progress from the comfort of home. Orangetheory Fitness costs less than a personal trainer and more than a regular gym. “You have a coach in the workout with you, giving you feedback on your form, encouraging you, giving you modifications,” Dawson says. “It’s like sharing the cost of a personal trainer with others.”
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8400 Jane Street, Concord (South of Langstaff) 905.532.9123 26 | York Life March April 2017
home
An Alarming Fact Every year, more than 50 Canadians die from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Protect yourself and your family by making sure you have a working CO detector near all of your home’s sleeping areas. And don’t forget to clean it and check the battery twice a year to ensure your alarm is fully operational. (P.S. It’s the law.)
York Life March April 2017 | 27
home | Room Tour
Place
A
Sun in the
an addition to the back of their Keswick home brings year-round enjoyment for the whole family
By tracY sMith PHoToGRAPHy By JiM craigMYle
28 | York Life March April 2017
E
very morning, you'll find Sandra and Joe Da Costa perched on a bar stool, enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee and taking in the panoramic landscape. The stunning view is new for them and is all thanks to their brand new sunroom addition — and its dramatically large windows on three sides of the space. The idea for the sunroom began about 18 months ago with the couple contemplating a three-season addition. During the planning stages, it changed to become a room that they could enjoy the entire year, with heating, air conditioning and a stunning floor-to-ceiling gas fireplace.
The massive windows flood the sunroom addition with light and give the space a wide-open feeling. But artful little nooks offer a cozy spot, too.
Although handy, the Da Costas knew they wanted to hire someone to complete this ambitious plan and found Alair Homes Aurora — a premium custom-home builder in York Region. With Alair’s expertise and attention to detail, the Da Costas’ idea quickly started to take shape, and in four months the sunroom project was complete. Now that the paint has dried, the windows have all been installed and the heated floor is turned on, the Da Costas have added approximately 350 square feet to their home and have successfully turned their old deck into a bright, contemporary space that their whole family can enjoy.
“I love the versatility of the new space; we drink coffee here in the mornings and watch TV in front of the fireplace with our kids in the evening, and then when we entertain, it is an amazing space for everyone to spill out into so we’re not all crowded in the kitchen area, which used to be the case.” — Joe Da Costa
York Life March April 2017 | 29
home | Room Tour
Wish list: • a beautiful view • more living space • open concept with the rest of the house • four-season use Splurges: • heated flooring • fireplace Savings: • “We got a great deal on the all-in-one heating/air-conditioning unit, and my father built the bar for us years ago — we just never had the room to use it. We were so pleased when it fit in the new space.” — Sandra Da Costa
The new space means the family can enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding area year-round. Inside, a combination air conditioner and heating unit means their gathering space is always comfortable.
The Da Costas love to entertain, and the new addition does not disappoint. The bar area, with its warm, wooden finish, is a natural drawing place for guests, while the living area, complete with fireplace, TV and comfy seating, offers a relaxed space for family and friends. “I love the versatility of the space,” Joe says.
30 | York Life March April 2017
Sources: Design/Build Contractor: Alair Homes Aurora, alairhomes.ca/aurora Area rugs: wayfair.com Couch: Leon’s, leons.ca Fan and wall sconces: Living Lighting, Newmarket, livinglighting.com Heated flooring: Warmboard, warmboard.com Tables: Pier 1 Imports, pier1.ca Windows: Pollard Windows & Doors, pollardwindows.com Wood flooring: Power Dekor, powerdekorna.com Wood stove: Valor, valorfireplaces.com
home | Spring Cleaning
tidy transformation Spring’s longer, brighter days cue us to throw open the windows and let in the light. But those early rays can put a spotlight on a winter’s worth of grime: cobwebs in corners, salt stains by the front door, dust bunnies under furniture. no wonder so many of us are hit with spring-cleaning fever. Caught the bug? Read on for a room-by-room refresh to get your space sparkling.
By leslee Mason
York Life March April 2017 | 31
home | Spring Cleaning Ready, set, clean How long will cleaning take? It depends. “Some people have a lot to tackle and some don’t,” says Michelle Jamieson, co-owner of Precise Cleaning Services, which provides home and office cleaning throughout York Region and surrounding areas. If you’ve got a lot to do, Jamieson suggests a more flexible schedule and focusing on one room at a time. Before starting, make sure you’ve got the right tools on hand. Jamieson uses a caddy to keep things organized. Its must-haves include a duster, window cleaner, all-purpose
room
and bathroom products, and a pumice stone for the toilet. “In the cleaning area of Home Hardware, they have [a pumice stone] specifically for your toilets,” she says, adding it does a great job on the rings caused by hard water. Don’t forget a vacuum, mop and bucket. It’s also a good idea to have boxes and garbage bags on hand to deal with trash and items to donate and store. The strategy “I usually start on the top floor and then work my way to the bottom,” Jamieson says.
clean
She takes a similar approach in each room, beginning at the ceiling in the farthest corner of the room and working her way around. “I use a big duster to get any cobwebs, then I’ll go back to that same corner and dust by hand any little trinkets or little items clients may have.” When doing a deep clean, Jamieson suggests paying special attention to your neglected areas, such as windows, walls and baseboards. “You can also clean inside your stove and fridge and move your appliances and clean behind them,” she says.
purge
store/organize
KITCHEN
Dust light fixtures and wipe down range hood, backsplash and walls. Wipe counters and door pulls, and clean cabinets inside and out. Then, wash floor.
Pitch expired food, chipped mugs and lidless food containers. Give away unused items such as old dinnerware or extra pots.
Break out the barbecue tools and store occasional-use items away from everyday ones.
LIVING ROOM
Wipe down surfaces, including window ledges and remotes. Vacuum sofa (don’t forget underneath and between cushions). Vacuum — and if necessary, shampoo — carpets.
Sort and ditch or rehome surface clutter such as old magazines, mail and knick-knacks.
Replace heavier cushions and throws with lighter choices, in keeping with the warmer weather.
BEDROOMS
Launder all bedding (including bed skirt, duvet and mattress pad) and vacuum under bed. Wash machinewashable curtains.
Give your closet a solid once-over. Donate clothes that no longer fit or that you haven’t worn in a year.
Replace heavy bedding and blankets with lighter-weight fabrics. Swap out your winter wardrobe for lighter seasonal gear.
BATHROOM
Dust ceiling fans and vents. Scrub sink, tiles, tub and toilet. Launder fabric shower curtain and clean or replace liner. Clean mirror. Dust then clean baseboards and floor.
Bin expired products. Toss makeup older than six months, as well as broken eyeshadows and powders.
Create tub space by leaving out one bottle each of shampoo, conditioner and body wash.
A greener clean
1 2 3
32 | York Life March April 2017
Deep clean the inside of your oven with a paste made from baking soda and water. Using gloves, smear it on the sides and bottom (avoid heating elements) and let sit for a few hours. Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Wash walls with a microfibre cloth and warm water. After dusting, give wood furniture a coconut-lemon polish. To make, combine ¼ cup coconut oil with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Put a small amount on a cloth and rub in, then buff with the grain using a separate cloth.
Photo: courtesy of Ikea
home | Decor
Cushy Work Adding a fresh, inviting space to your home can be as easy as a pillow toss By TRAC Y SMITH
W
hen spring is in the air, it’s only natural to think about freshening up our homes, both outside and in. It’s time to store away the heavy plaids, wools and fleece throws and trade them in for some lighter fabrics heralding warmer days to come. An easy way to bring a welcome change? Add throw pillows, perfect for couches, chairs and beds. “The sky’s the limit with accent cushions,” says Michelle Major, owner of Floxglove Design Inc. in Aurora. “They can have the
largest impact in a room and are so easy to change with the seasons, unlike expensive art and area rugs.” For a contemporary look, less is more: two bold cushions picking up on accent colours from your artwork or carpet will work well. If your look is more cozy and casual, add lots of cushions in all different patterns that complement one another. To get you started, here are some of this season’s picture-perfect pillows, ready to perch on a couch near you.
York Life March April 2017 | 33
home | Decor
C O L O U R T REN D S “Hot colours for 2017 include a lot of jewel tones — deep purples, greens, rich yellows,” says Major. “And softer, lighter versions of these shades for the warmer months, such as light blue, butter yellow and mauve.”
Light Blue Chevron Hues of light blue paired with a contemporary zigzag pattern. Fabricland, from $12.95
Jassa Cushion A must-have in one of the year’s hottest shades. Ikea, from $4.99
Classic Ticking This classic look is perfect on its own or great for layering with other patterns and colours. Tonic Living, $48.95
Tangerine & White Geometric Who doesn’t like colour in the summer? It’s time to spice things up! Fabricland, from $12.95
Java Batik, Indigo A gorgeous indigo-blue pillow inspired by Batik fabric of Indonesia. Tonic Living, from $41.95
Eastern Charm This pretty floral brings a bit of the garden indoors and is perfect for a bedroom. Tonic Living, from $48.95
Sommer 2017 The polka dot reinvented with a splash of fun. Ikea, from $4.99
Posh Velvet Mustard A luxurious pop of colour and a beautiful exposed brass zipper. Tonic Living, $51.95
Greno Cushion Indoor/outdoor, bursting with personality and machine washable. Ikea, from $9.99
C U S H ION C A RE It’s bound to happen — dirt, a stain, the dreaded spill. But how do you clean a cushion? “They are small and usually they have removable covers that makes cleaning a lot easier,” says Janine Morrison, co-founder and owner of Toronto’s Tonic Living. “We tell all of our customers the same cleaning advice: dry clean or very careful machine washing. Use cold water with mild detergent, lie flat to dry and iron inside out on medium heat.”
34 | York Life March April 2017
SOURCES: Michelle Major, owner, Foxglove Design Inc., Aurora, foxglovedesign.ca Fabricland, various locations, fabricland.ca Ikea, various locations, ikea.com/ca Tonic Living, Toronto, tonicliving.com
food & drink
frozen assets
If you’ve been giving frozen vegetables the cold shoulder, you might want to rethink that. Sure, straight-from-the-garden produce is chock full of nutrition and flavour, but getting the freshest possible veggies this time of year can be tricky. of course, you can find produce aplenty at your local grocery store, but sometimes the trip from warmer southern fields to cool Canadian supermarkets can take weeks — eroding the nutritional quality with each passing day. frozen vegetables, meanwhile, are chilled within hours of being picked, preserving more nutrition than the fresherlooking finds in your produce aisle.
York Life March April 2017 | 35
food & drink | Easter Recipes
36 | York Life March April 2017
rosemary lamb lollipops With Mint gremolata laMb Marinade: This marinade can also be used for any cut of lamb that you prefer (e.g., lamb chops). 12 3 2 ½ cup ¼ cup
lamb lollipops cloves garlic, sliced sprigs of fresh rosemary white wine extra-virgin olive oil
Mint greMolata: 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp grated lemon zest 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil pinch each, salt and pepper
Expecting company over the holiday weekend? Don’t panic. Our spring-fresh Easter menu — with a traditional main, bright and healthy sidedish and sweet, light dessert — can be enjoyed as either a delicious dinner, lunch or brunch. R E C I PI ES A N D PH o T o G R A PH y B y J ul ie Miguel
Put lamb into a large resealable plastic bag, and add garlic, rosemary, wine and olive oil. Seal bag; using your hands, make sure the marinade coats all of the lamb pieces. Marinate overnight in the refrigerator (or for at least 4 hours). To make mint gremolata, in a small bowl, whisk together mint, garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt and pepper. Set aside. Heat grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill lamb for about 2 to 3 minutes per side (lamb should be served medium, with a pink centre). Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Drizzle with mint gremolata and serve hot. Makes 4 servings. York Life March April 2017 | 37
food & drink | Easter Recipes
Mediterranean Grain Salad
Salad: 2 cups 1 2/3 cup 1/2 cup 2/3 cup 1 cup 1/4 cup
cooked grain, rinsed and drained (I used pearl barley, but feel free to use quinoa, rice, farro or couscous) large cucumber, seeded and finely diced finely diced roasted red peppers finely diced sun-dried tomatoes finely diced red onion (about half a small onion) chopped black olives finely chopped fresh parsley
Vinaigrette: 3 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp red wine vinegar salt and pepper, to taste In a large bowl, mix together grain, cucumber, peppers, tomatoes, onion, olives and parsley. For the vinaigrette, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk together until combined. Pour vinaigrette over the salad, and toss until combined. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Makes 6 to 8 servings. 38 | York Life March April 2017
easy ice cream-filled cream Puffs With craquelin The craquelin is optional, but it makes a lovely topping for your cream puffs.
creaM Puffs: 1 cup water 1/2 cup unsalted butter (if using salted, omit added salt) 1 tbsp sugar 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup all-purpose flour 3 eggs 2 egg whites 64 oz natural vanilla bean ice cream ¼ cup icing sugar for dusting (optional) craQuelin: ½ cup butter 1 cup light brown sugar 1 cup all-purpose flour craQuelin Cream butter and sugar. Add in flour, and mix dough until smooth and there is no visible flour. Roll dough between parchment paper to 1/8” thickness. Freeze dough for about 20 minutes. Remove dough from freezer. Using a round cookie cutter, cut cookies from dough. (Make them the same size you will make your cream puffs.)
creaM Puffs Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large saucepan, bring water, butter, sugar and salt to a boil over medium heat. Add flour, and stir frequently for 5 minutes or until mixture easily forms a large ball. Transfer ball into a bowl and, using an electric mixer, mix on medium high to break up and cool the dough (about 10 minutes). In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with whites until combined. With the mixer running, slowly pour in eggs, continuing to mix until smooth. Using a piping bag with a round tip, squeeze 12 large dough mounds onto parchment paper, about 1 1/2 inches apart. With wet hands, smooth and form any misshapes and points. Place a craquelin cookie on top of each cream puff. Bake in centre of oven for about 40 minutes or until top is golden. Turn off oven and remove. Pierce side of each puff with a knife; return to oven for 15 minutes with oven door ajar. Then, let cool completely on a rack. Cut cream puffs in half horizontally. Fill each with a scoop of ice cream and replace tops. Dust with icing sugar and serve immediately. Or, freeze on a tray, then transfer to freezer-weight plastic bag. Filled cream puffs freeze well for up to 3 days. (Uncut cream puffs can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat from frozen in 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until hot and crisp. Cool completely before filling.) Makes 6 to 8 servings.
York Life March April 2017 | 39
food & drink | Coffee Brewers
Morning
Glories Kick-start your day with one of these smart coffee makers B y LESLEE MASON
40 | York Life March April 2017
Make it count Take the guesswork out of the perfect cup with this clever brewer. It features a 12-cup capacity and built-in scale that counts and displays your coffee scoops for consistent flavour every time. Choose between regular and bold brews, and enjoy automatic pause-and-serve for no waiting or mess. TruCount Coffee Maker, Hamilton Beach, $95, available at hamiltonbeach.ca.
Style maker Make a bold countertop statement with this sleek and streamlined French press, featuring a cordless design and heatretaining dual stainless steel construction. The integrated scale and timer ensures precise ratio and brew time for a rich, full-bodied cup of coffee. KitchenAid Precision Press Coffee Maker, $170, available at national retailers and kitchenaid.ca.
Coffee your way This flexible machine offers four brew types: classic, rich, over ice and specialty brew. Take it to go, enjoy a single mug or share a half- or full carafe. And bonus — the brew basket along wtih removable water reservoir make filling and cleaning a cinch. Ninja Coffee Bar Brewer With Thermal Carafe, $280, available at Canadian Tire and canadiantire.ca.
Crowd pleaser Perfect for your next gathering, this stylish machine with advanced heat technology brews up to 14 cups of regular or bold-flavoured coffee. Fully programmable, it features a 24-hour brew start, adjustable auto-off and push-button controls. Cuisinart 14-Cup Coffee Maker, $150, available at Canadian Tire and online at canadiantire.ca.
Two in one Tea or coffee? Enjoy either with this handy two-in-one appliance. Get your brew on or use its one-hand hot-water dispenser with ready light to make tea, cocoa or instant hot cereal. Coffee Maker & Hot Water Dispenser, Hamilton Beach, $105, available at Walmart.
Home barista Turn your daily cup into an art form with the addition of a burr grinder. This one boasts 15 grind levels and lower grinding temperatures for better flavour and quality. KitchenAid Burr Grinder, $350, available at national retailers and online at kitchenaid.ca.
York Life March April 2017 | 41
Photography Naomi Hiltz
food & drink | Halloumi Cheese
42 | York Life March April 2017
Hail to Halloumi!
A cheese that doesn’t melt? Think of the possibilities! By TRACY S M ITH Imagine a cheese you can barbecue, fry or heat and it won’t melt or lose its shape. You’ve just pictured halloumi. Originally from the Mediterranean country of Cyprus, halloumi was traditionally made from goat’s or sheep’s milk, but is now made from cow’s milk, too. The cheese is known for its salty taste, and often has a hint of mint from the pieces added to most types, primarily to reflect its origins of being wrapped in mint leaves for longevity.
Watermelon & Halloumi 1 tsp minced shallot 1 tsp minced garlic pinch kosher salt 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1 tbsp honey 1/2 cup plus 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 2 tbsp sliced almonds, toasted 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint 8 small wedges seedless watermelon, rind removed 8 oz halloumi cheese, cut into 8 slices In a mixing bowl, whisk together shallot, garlic, salt, vinegar and honey. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup oil, then add almonds and mint. Place watermelon in a shallow dish. Pour the dressing on top, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Sear halloumi 1 minute per side, then remove from pan; top each slice with a piece of marinated watermelon. Makes 4 servings.
Halloumi has a texture similar to that of mozzarella, and fans often describe it as “squeaky” when you eat it cooked. “Unlike other cheeses, halloumi can take centre stage and, once cooked, is often eaten on its own with a fork and knife,” explains Jane Kemp, owner of La Jolie Cheese Shop in Aurora. “It also pairs well with other foods, working wonderfully with both sweet and savoury tastes in salads, appetizers and main dishes.” Read on for other ways to enjoy halloumi.
Ha l l o u m i HOW - TO • • • • • • •
skewer on shish kebabs, alternating with meat and vegetables add to salads place on toothpicks with figs and/or watermelon grate onto pasta layer on a burger cook in omelettes use in place of crostini bread in appetizer recipes
B asic Ha l l o u m i Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium high. Slice halloumi into ½-inch pieces and fry two to three minutes per side or until golden brown. Serve and enjoy.
(Source: Michael Symon for Food Network Magazine.) York Life March April 2017 | 43
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food & drink | Halloumi Cheese
breakfast stack With halloumi, spinach, Potato and roasted Pepper
1
large Yukon Gold potato, cut into rounds, approximately 1/8-inch thick 1 tsp white vinegar 2 tbsp olive oil salt and ground black pepper, to taste 4 slices thick-cut bacon 8 oz halloumi, cut crosswise into 8 slices, each about Ÿ-inch thick 1 tbsp butter 2 oz baby spinach, washed and dried (about 2 cups) 4 eggs 8 fire-roasted ½-inch red pepper strips (store-bought is fine)
(Source: Wendy Crispell for Culture magazine, culturecheesemag.com/recipes.) sources: Jane kemp, La Jolie Cheese shop, Aurora, lajoliecheeseshop.ca Michael symon, michaelsymon.com Wendy Crispell, certified cheese specialist, sassysipsnyc.com Culture Magazine, culturecheesemag.com/recipes Food network, foodnetwork.com
Soak potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well and pat dry. Fill a two-quart saucepan with 2 inches of water, add vinegar, then bring to a slow simmer and leave. Heat two large non-stick skillets over medium heat, adding oil to one. Add potatoes to oiled skillet in one layer, being careful to spread them out. Season with salt and pepper and brown for 5 minutes on each side or until golden and crisp. Remove potatoes to serving plate and cover to keep warm. Meanwhile, in second skillet, add bacon and cook until brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels; cut each piece in half and cover with foil to keep warm. Wipe out both skillets and return them to the stove over medium heat. In first skillet, cook halloumi for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove to a serving platter and cover to keep warm. Melt butter in second skillet, add spinach and stir, covering spinach with butter. Remove from heat and cover. Break eggs into individual small ramekins or teacups, and gently slide each egg into simmering vinegar water. Turn off heat, cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Assemble stacks on four individual plates in this order: a few potato slices, two slices of halloumi, one poached egg (use slotted spoon to remove from water), spinach, red pepper and bacon. Garnish with black pepper. Makes 4 servings.
York Life March April 2017 | 45
ask your skin coach For over 16 years Sheri Kurtz and her team of skin care specialists have gained the trust of York Region as the prime destination for passionate advice on pampering and protecting your most important organ – your skin. Through individually designed programs the Sherlase Skin Coaches help you turn the back the hands of time. This premier full-service Medical Aesthetics Clinic can make a difference to your ongoing physical and mental well being in a warm and inviting environment.
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travel
Flying With Style Flying for business or pleasure? Don’t leave your beauty routine up in the air. The Minimergency Kit packs 17 style and personal-care essentials in one pretty package. That means flight-friendly sizes of stain remover, deodorant, nailcare items, lip balm and more are in easy reach, so you’re ready for life’s little emergencies — even mid-flight. Minimergency Kit, $22, pinchprovisions.com.
York Life March April 2017 | 47
travel | Getaway
meet you in myrtle Beach Looking for some economical time in the sun? Cast your eyes toward the South Carolina coast B y h e at her green W ooD Davis
I
t may not officially be a sister city, but Myrtle Beach has never made a secret of its love for Canadians. This year will mark the 56th year that the city on the South Carolina coast has run Canadian-American Festival days — a week-long promotion (March 11 to 19) when free concerts, special activities and complimentary tours are aimed squarely at the more than 900,000 Canadians who visit each year. Now Canadian passport holders don’t have to wait until March for the deals. Deep discounts are being unveiled between January and April aimed at bringing costs closer to par for visiting Canadians. Ready to go? Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your trip.
48 | York Life March April 2017
York Life March April 2017 | 49
travel | Getaway Getting there Porter Airlines and WestJet both offer seasonal service. If you’re close to the Buffalo border, you can also find great deals on Spirit Airlines out of Niagara International Airport. Alternatively, buckle up for a scenic 15-hour drive south. Get your bearings Myrtle Beach is bigger than you think. The hub that is often referred to as “The Grand Strand” stretches from Little River to Pawleys Island and is made up of 12 distinct cities. Pack your swimsuit The area and its 96 kilometres of coastline were recently named #2 on the “Best Beaches in America” list by the Travel Channel and “America’s favourite beach town” by Travel + Leisure magazine. Just like home Where you spend your nights is as flexible as your budget and your needs. Ocean Creek Resort offers your choice of villa or condo in several locations and a 55 per cent discount on stays of seven days or longer. The Kingston Plantation apartments offer all the amenities of a hotel (think buffet breakfast and pool access) and the benefits of a condo (in-suite laundry and space to lounge). If you'd like a more traditional hotel, try the Double Tree Resort by Hilton. Set on 30 acres of land at the south end of Ocean Boulevard, it boasts
$25 million in recent renovations, ocean views and 20 per cent off the best available rate. Eat local “Carolina coastal cuisine” includes fresh local seafood, juicy peaches and, yup, grits. Recipes handed down through the generations get a 21st-century twist at restaurants in the region. In neighbouring Murrells Inlet — the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” you’ll be able to enjoy the MarshWalk boardwalk and peek out at the sunset before dinner at The Claw House or Wicked Tuna. Closer to the Grand Strand, try newly opened Bluefin. Drink local New South Brewery is one of several craft beer offerings in the area that offer a free guided tour and tasting. For a glass of the local vino, pop into local favourite La Belle Amie Vineyard or new-to-the-neighbourhood Duplin Winery. Want some grub with your
pub? The Brass Tap offers 70 different craft beers on tap alongside a full menu and live entertainment. Hit the links Those who love the game can take advantage of the “Mystical Three-Round Special.” From March 16 to May 28, starting at US$370 per golfer, you can play a trio of courses consistently recognized by Golf Channel to be among Myrtle Beach’s five best. The offer focuses on the Man O’War, Wizard and Witch courses, and includes four nights’ lodging in a wide selection of accommodation options, including oceanfront stays, as well as lunch and two beers at the course each day and more. Prefer smaller courses? The area boasts dozens of mini-golf options. For a look at all the discounts available during the Can-Am promotions, check out visitmyrtlebeach.com/things-to-do/events/ can-am-days.
Feel like a late-day stroll? The MarshWalk offers pretty views along with shopping and dining.
Take a beach break with a friendly game of miniputt, just one of several golfing options available. Then refuel with local specialities or mouth-watering surf-and-turf combos. 50 | York Life March April 2017
The
5
travel | Technology
Fab
Five Need a vacation from planning your vacation? Our short list of expertapproved travel apps you’ll actually use can help
By LIZ BRUCKNER
Sure, you could spend hours finetooth-combing your way through multiple websites trying to streamline an impending trip. Or, you could look to quick, comprehensive, intuitive apps that are designed to do just that. Here are five standouts.
Skyscanner According to Arienne Parzei, a Toronto-based travel writer, videographer and photographer, this app is her go-to option for everything related to researching and booking a trip. “It does its magic by comparing prices across scads of providers for the best deals on flights, hotels and car rentals,” she says, “and I love that it shows you price results across a month, so you can see which dates end up being the cheapest to book.” Even better: You can program the app so you receive notifications if the price of a flight or hotel you’re interested in drops. XE Currency Lauded as the web destination for currency conversions, the XE app is a must for savvy travellers. “I often visit multiple countries when I’m away,” Parzei says, “and because the app allows you to load up to six different countries at a time, it’s easy to keep up on the various exchange rates.” Keep in mind that while rates supplied are live, market rates are not exactly what you’d get at a bank; they’re a good starting point to ensure you get the best possible exchange rate as you shop. Google Maps Not just a handy at-home app, this gem is a no-brainer for every traveller. “I love using it when I’m on the road to calculate walking distances, determine public transit times or even to see exactly what a street looks like with Google Street View,” Parzei says. The fact that the app works in offline mode — so you don’t have to worry about being connected to data to use it — is the cherry on top. Trail Wallet As anyone with a case of wanderlust can vouch, keeping spending in line while on vacation can be a feat. Thankfully, there’s an app for that. “What I love about Trail Wallet is that it’s all about keeping you on budget,” Parzei says. “You set an overall trip budget and then a daily budget, and simply document your expenses from there.” Comprehensive and easy to use, it’s available in more than 218 currencies, has fun cartoons that offer feedback about your purchases, as well as categories to help you allocate where your funds are going. Google Translate Winning the award for travel practicality, this convenient app allows users to quickly translate common words seen during their travels. Not only can you type words into the search field for translation, you can also hold your camera up to the text seen on a sign, book, menu, etc., and the app will translate it for you. It’s a must for every traveller. Bon voyage!
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travel | Vaycay
Chasing the
Tuscan Sun Want to get the most out of this romantic slice of Italy? Take it slow By Suzanne legue
52 | York Life March April 2017
S
ee you in Pienza!” the woman joked as she took off in her rented red Fiat, clutching the ubiquitous blue-andyellow guidebook found in the hands of most North American tourists in Italy. We had just shared several minutes under the Tuscan sun with the woman and her husband while parked at the side of a dusty highway in the blazing heat, snapping pictures of what must be the most photographed — and starkly beautiful — circle of cypress trees. We were getting to know the couple from Minnesota quite well, since we had also encountered them at several other photo ops recommended by the travel guides: at the lonely yellow chapel flanked by cypress trees near the village of San Quirico d’Orcia; while admiring the rustic Italian farmhouse with the twisty driveway that was Russell Crowe’s home in the movie Gladiator; in front of a serpentine, tree-lined road near Monticchiello. Later that evening, sunburned and exhausted, my husband and I re-evaluated our travel strategy. We vowed that from that point on, we would stop and smell the sunflowers, so to speak. A haven for artists Yes, you can do the “Best of Tuscany” route on the main Via Cassia (SR2) in a few hours if you don’t linger. And yes, you will come home with stunning frame-worthy photos of the “Top 10 Tuscan Views.” But you may also see the same people at each stop and you’ll only scratch the surface of this beautiful area. Slow down and ditch the guidebook, though, and you will gather soul-satisfying memories to last a lifetime. A haven for artists for centuries, Tuscany is like a Renaissance painting come to life. Under its big sky, gently undulating fields are filled with bright yellow sunflowers, red poppies or golden wheat, depending on the season. Cypress-lined driveways, silvery olive orchards and sloping vineyards heavy with fat, purple grapes lead to stone farmhouses and fortified hilltop towns. The Val d’Orcia, the picture-postcard valley south of Florence, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thanks to the bestselling book Under the Tuscan Sun, Frances Mayes’ memoire about restoring an abandoned farmhouse in the Tuscan countryside, and especially the 2003 movie starring Diane Lane, this magnificent area captures every romantic, iconic image you’ve ever had of Italy.
Timeless and untouched The medieval hilltop town of Montepulciano is a perfect base from which to explore this stunning corner of Tuscany. From this walled city perched high atop a limestone ridge, it’s an easy drive to many charming villages, including Pienza, Bagno Vignoni, Montalcino, San Quirico d’Orcia and the larger, more touristy town of Siena to the north. Montepulciano seems timeless and untouched, particularly since the town centre is car-free. It’s a bit of an uphill hike from where you park your car outside the walls, but once you pass through the gates, you can meander aimlessly through the streets, lined with homes built by nobles 400 years ago and
which are still occupied today. A delightful afternoon can be spent admiring the grandeur of the Piazza Grande, where the rescue scene amid a crowd of red-cloaked villagers was filmed for the Twilight sequel New Moon. Home base for our week was the Montorio (“Golden Mount”) in the shadow of Montepulciano. Originally built as a monastery in the 1300s, the restored villa is surrounded by a wall of deep green cypresses, with vibrant red geraniums spilling over huge terracotta urns on the expansive terrace. But it wasn’t always so. Having been abandoned for almost 50 years, the building was a dilapidated ruin with crumbling roof and walls, and engulfed by vegetation when purchased by the Savini family in 1997. But, oh, that view!
The medieval town of Montepulciano is a perfect base from which to explore this corner of Tuscany. York Life March April 2017 | 53
travel | Vaycay Perched on a hill with a glorious 360-degree view, the villa overlooks the stunning Church of San Biagio, whose beautiful dome inspired the design of the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Basilica. Acoustics are so exceptional inside the ornate cathedral that it is said a clap reverberates more than 50 times.
hanging above the valleys, exploring villages throughout the region. One of our favourites was the medieval spa town of Bagno Vignoni. Boasting a thermal spring pool at its centre, it has been a popular stop for travellers since Etruscan times,
Beauty and the three-hour lunch Before the tourist boom, but confident in its potential, the Savinis spent three years transforming the ruin into the quintessential Tuscan dream. Daughter Stefania operates this apartment villa, along with another nearby luxury property, Villa Poggiano, with “a passion, a pinch of recklessness and lots of enthusiasm.” She spends much of her time trying to convince guests to slow down and savour the area’s stealthy seduction. “So many tourists who come here are in a hurry. They want to see all the sights from the movies or books. But look around, those images are everywhere,” she says. “The real beauty of Tuscany is discovered when you slow down and linger over lunch for three hours, then stroll through the quiet streets of the village, where life is simple, the silence magical and the daily pattern of one’s days follows the time-honoured rhythms of nature. These are some of the memories that I hope my guests will take away with them.” Heeding that advice, each day we drove switchback roads, with that evocative mist
Take the time to get lost among the labyrinth of back alleyways and stop at a tiny trattoria to enjoy a leisurely meal when pilgrims would stop for a therapeutic dip on their pilgrimage to Rome. While the steaming pool is no longer open to the public, you can dip your toes in the mineral-rich hot streams that wind their way down the hill from the main piazza. Take the time to get lost among the labyrinth of back alleyways, and stop at a tiny trattoria to enjoy a leisurely meal of wild boar salami, thick unsalted Tuscan bread and the amazing local pecorino cheese, all dipped in green olive oil and sweet, aged balsamic. We still talk about the delicious simplicity of that meal. The temple of wine The Val d’Orcia is famous for its outstanding full-bodied wines — Brunello di Montalcino
and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano — and no visit is complete without visiting at least one of the dozens of wineries that dot the storybook landscape. Cantine Dei is a family-run winery on more than 100 acres at the base of Montepulciano. The winery features an architecturally stunning new cellar, described as a “temple of wine,” that you access through an expansive travertine amphitheatre and a unique shellshaped stairwell. “Get off the beaten track — that’s my advice,” says opera singer Caterina Dei, who owns the winery and is the granddaughter of Alibrando, the family patriarch who founded the winery in 1964. “Live like Italian people, enjoy the real Tuscan habits and be curious to visit hidden places, not only what the guidebook advises. Most importantly, never be in a rush. If you do ‘Tuscany in a day,’ you will miss Tuscany.” We did end up running into that Minnesota couple in Pienza, a town in Sienna that happens to be another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It looks like a movie set come to life with quaint streets jammed with restaurants and tiny shops. Over a glass of wine, we marvelled at how completely Tuscany enthralls you. How every turn reveals a new delight until you imagine you could spend the rest of your days here, perfecting dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing.
Tuscany’s simple pleasures include taking in the stunning views the area is famous for. But don’t forget to indulge your taste buds, too. Try wild boar salami, thick slices of unsalted bread and pecorino cheese, all dipped in green olive oil and aged balsamic. 54 | York Life March April 2017
A slower pace means taking in the many “streetscapes,” from the medieval spa town of Bagno Vignoni to the rambling local streets. Experience a different kind of accommodation at Montorio (below left), a restored monestary run by Stephania Savini (bottom left) with “a passion, a pinch of recklessness and lots of enthusiasm.”
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travel | Vaycay
Tuscany How-To’s when to go Summer can be stiflingly hot in Italy and very crowded. Early fall is perfect in Tuscany: the crowds have lessened, yet the temperature is still comfortably warm.
gettIng theRe The Val d’Orcia is not easily accessible by public transit. You need a car, so either rent one in Florence and head south or take a high-speed train north from Rome to Chiusi, near Montepulciano, and rent a car there. Almost all rental cars are small and diesel, making them fuel-efficient.
S tAy I n g t h e R e Montorio features five one- and two-bedroom apartments in a fully restored former monastery with spectacular views from the terraces. The town of Montepulciano, shops and restaurants are within walking distance. Daily rates start at 100 euros (C$139); montorio.com. Villa Poggiano, built as a summer home in the 18th century, is a luxury hotel surrounded by 14 acres of gardens, statues, fountains and a pool, and is about two kilometres outside of Montepulciano. Daily rates start at 220 euros (C$306); villapoggiano.com.
e At I n g t h e R e La Grotta, at the base of Montepulciano and next to San Biagio church, is one of the best restaurants in Val d’Orcia. The traditional Tuscan food is outstanding, particularly when served in its lush garden. The six-course tasting menu is 50 euros (C$70); lagrottamontepulciano.it. Trattoria Latte di Luna in Pienza is an affordable, unpretentious spot that’s a favourite with locals. Try the Tuscan white beans, bread soup and pasta with wild boar sauce, while sitting on the lovely outdoor terrace.
DRInkIng theRe The area is dotted with wineries, big and small, and the Val d’Orcia Consortium website (consorziovinoorcia.it) includes a map of local wineries. or, just spontaneously pop into one of the many small, family-run wineries marked by roadside signs. Cantine Dei winery (cantinedei.com) offers daily tours and wine tasting, with the option of lunch, from 15 euros (C$21). Many wine shops offer automated wine dispensing machines. For a few euros, depending on the vintage, you can sample a few ounces before you buy. Brilliant!
ShoppIng theRe Affordable bottles of olive oil, chestnut honey and balsamic vinegar can be found in every gift store, but browse the aisles of a neighbourhood grocery store for better deals and interesting varieties. Most stores will also vacuum pack pecorino or Parmesan cheese for you. All stores pack your wine in a cardboard carrying case for safe transport home. When sipping a delicious Brunello or Nobile, you might be convinced you absolutely must have a case of it for home. Keep in mind, though, shipping is expensive, and the LCBo sells many excellent Brunello and Nobile vintages. What’s ordinary for those in Tuscany is often postcard-worthy for the thoughtful tourist. From picturesque countryside to quaint village views to unique local wineries, take the time to take it all in. 56 | York Life March April 2017
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www.rcmschool.ca York Life March April 2017 | 57
feature | Ted Badner
In the Game Ted Badner’s passion for basketball led to the creation of HoopDome, a world-class facility. But getting there wasn’t a slam dunk By DAVID LI
T
ed Badner was 12 years old when his father, Manly, signed him up for his first youth basketball house league. “I fell in love with basketball right away,” says Badner, now 51. “I love how it teaches important life lessons in the areas of persistence, patience, respect and hard work.”
58 | York Life March April 2017
York Life March April 2017 | 59
feature | Ted Badner
Those are the very qualities that have enabled the Thornhill resident to live out his childhood passion through HoopDome — a multi-court basketball-only facility he helped to spearhead for construction on the former Canadian Forces base at Downsview Park in Toronto. With HoopDome celebrating its 10th anniversary in March, Badner, now the facility’s president and director of operations, reflects on what it took to make his hoop dream a reality. “After graduating from York University, I wanted to remain involved in the sport and I started out coaching rep basketball at the Jewish Community Centre,” Badner says. He enjoyed success coaching local rep teams and later became involved with the Canadian Maccabi basketball program. “I took teams down to the United States for tournaments and I saw how popular these multi-court facilities were,” he says. “That gave me the idea to build one in Toronto.” But getting others on board wasn’t easy. “In 2003, when I was trying to get my idea out there, I was getting told no all the time,” Badner says. “But thankfully, one of the first to champion the idea was Glen Grunwald.” The former Toronto Raptors general manager still remembers his and Badner’s initial meeting. “Ted struck me as a passionate basketball person who was intent on building his dream,” Grunwald says. “He impressed me with his well thought-out business plan and commitment.” The right space Their biggest challenge was acquiring the right space — the land at the former Canadian Forces base. “The land was owned by the Department of National Defence,” Badner explains, “and we were negotiating with the federal Liberal government. We thought we had a deal in place, and then there was an election in 2006, which the Harper Conservative party won. We had to start from scratch.” Eventually, though, Badner, Grunwald and their supporters secured the lease and built the world-class 42,000-square-foot basketball gymnasium. As a former point guard, Badner celebrated the opening in his own unique way before the official ribbon cutting ceremony on March 30, 2007. “I made the first basketball on all 14 hoops,” he says with a smile. “I consciously did that so I could say that I scored the first basket on every hoop.” Today, HoopDome has become a popular basketball landmark in the Greater Toronto Area and hosts competitive youth and adult leagues, and basketball camps, as well as offers pickup basketball year-round. Plus, the facility has played host to many NBA stars, including the Raptors’ Cory Joseph and DeMar DeRozan, and the Cavaliers’ Tristan Thompson; Nike, in fact, recently shot a commercial featuring DeRozan at the facility. 60 | York Life March April 2017
“After graduating from York
HoopDome has also made virtual inroads, having gained University, I wanted to remain recognition in the video-gaminvolved in the sport. I started ing community after being featured in the popular EA coaching rep basketball at the Sports video game NBA Live. “They did a survey on the top Jewish Community Centre. places to play pickup basketI took teams down to the ball in North America and we made that list,” Badner exUnited States for tournaments plains, “and so they included HoopDome in the game.” and I saw how popular these In addition to all the multi-court facilities were. That basketball being played at HoopDome, Badner is proud gave me the idea to build one that the facility has been part of a number of fundraisers, in Toronto.” including “Compete for the Cure,” which benefits pancreatic cancer research. “Any time you get a chance to give, it’s great,” he says, “and I’m fortunate that through HoopDome, we’ve been able to be part of some great causes over the years.” Strong community values That includes supporting growth at the grassroots level. “The young kids are the future of the game,” Badner says, “and it’s awesome that we’re able to offer youth leagues and basketball camps that allow them to develop and grow their passion for the game.” Connecting on the court also helps build a strong sense of community — something Badner has come to value more and more over the years. Through his travels to the U.S. and overseas as a coach, for example, he’s developed a greater appreciation of his home in Thornhill. “It’s safe, and there’s a lot of diversity in the community and everyone gets along,” he says. “I feel raising my son and daughter in Thornhill does a lot to instill good values in them.” According to Grunwald, Badner has also instilled those strong values in HoopDome. “Ted’s there, bright and early every day, and he runs a pretty tight ship,” he says. “Ted makes sure that HoopDome is a safe and respectful environment, because it is a reflection of him.” As for Badner, he sees the success of HoopDome as a validation of the important lessons he’s learned from his passion for the game. “Through basketball, I learned to overcome adversity, work effectively with others and graciously handle success,” he says. “I’m grateful the popularity of HoopDome has kept me closely connected to my lifelong passion and has allowed me to share that passion with so many others.”
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feature | Silken Laumann
The Gift of Fear Silken Laumann k nows a t h in g o r t wo a b o u t o v e r c o min g f e a r. Now s he wants t o h e lp o t h e r s d o t h e s a me By Liz Bruckn er
I
t’s been 25 years since Silken Laumann, one of Canada’s most decorated rowers, experienced the boat collision she credits as the most devastating and life-changing trauma of her life. “In some ways it feels like yesterday, and in others, like a lifetime ago,” Laumann says of the accident, which severely damaged her right leg, resulting in multiple surgeries and leaving her with just 10 weeks to train for the Barcelona Olympics. Incredibly, she came back after pushing through myriad physical and mental limits, famously earning Canada a bronze medal in the process.
those dark, devastating moments that Laumann discovered her true confidence and strength. “Ultimately, I had to get angry. I was tired of being afraid to perform, to race and to fail. The only way I knew how to get past all that was to do the exact thing that scared me the most,” she shares. This lean-in mindset is how Laumann continues to face adversity in her own life. She credits the approach for helping her write her
anxiety, anorexia and other forms of selfharm in her teenage years. It’s also one of the key directives she uses as a motivational speaker and for advising clients in her current role as a professional life coach.
Being nervous is a goal “I often tell my clients that one of the best pieces of advice I ever received came from one of my coaches, midway through my career. He asked if I was nervous before an Olympic trial, and I swallowed and said that I was incredibly nervous. Instead of giving me the calming response I expected, he told me it was good that I felt that way. That being nervous was the goal, because Pushing through the darkness it meant that I cared. It completely “It’s funny, because when I think changed the way I looked at fear, back, I vividly recall how terrifying and still does,” she says. it was to get back in a boat. It was Laumann believes that if you can to the point that every sound made name what you’re afraid of, you’re me feel like my heart would jump better prepared to be free of it. “It’s out of my chest, and I was connot that you won’t ever experience vinced I was going to be hit again,” fear in your life again, but your she says. Despite talking herself response, acknowledgement and through the training process every confidence in dealing with it makes morning and at multiple times Laumann shares her own experience in grappling with fear to help her clients deal with theirs. She believes that if you can name what you're afraid of, all the difference,” she says. “If throughout each day, the panic you're better prepared to be free of it. “It’s incredibly liberating,” she says. we can learn to push back against didn’t subside for months. “The fear — take it as a signal that we’re only way I can describe that time about to do or deal with something in my life is to say that I was living that stretches us — there’s an understanding 2014 memoir, Unsinkable, in which she bravely in an almost palpable, overwhelming state of that the only way around fear is through fear. opens up about her difficult relationship with fear that seemed to shrink my world.” It’s incredibly liberating.” her mother, and her battles with depression, Fittingly, it was only by pushing through
62 | York Life March April 2017
“You have to work through the issues and move forward to be successful”
t R A I n y o u R p h o B I A S AwAy H o w a n e w a p p i s h e l p i n g p e o p le p u s h p a s t w h a t f r ig h t e n s t h e m Overcoming two common phobias is just an app download away. Using Galaxy S7 and Gear VR headmounted displays, Samsung has combined virtual reality with lifelike challenges, simulating situations in which the fears of public speaking and the fear of heights are tackled head-on. “As an athlete who has used visualization throughout my career to get past performance-related situations that cause fear and anxiety,” Olympian Silken Laumann
says, “I saw right away that the benefits of a system like this are significant.” Here’s how it works: With the VR headmounted displays in place, users access the #BeFearless app most related to their phobia. For those leery of public speaking, lifelike scenarios such as job interviews and casual conversation are recreated. For users afraid of heights, cityscapes, landscapes and heights of varying degrees are simulated. Users start slowly, and are evaluated by voice volume, speaking
pace, eye contact and heart rate for the fear of public speaking, and by heart rate, how many times they looked down and on self-evaluation for the fear of heights app. Feedback is offered based on a user’s performance, and users can only advance by conquering beginner levels. “The science behind this app really falls in line with what anyone who’s battled fear knows to be true — you have to work through the issue and move forward to be successful,” Laumann says.
York Life March April 2017 | 63
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in the crowd | Chinese New Year
M a r k i ng a New year CF Markville and CF Fairview Mall recently welcomed the Year of the Rooster with festive celebrations in Markham. Guests enjoyed the Lion Dance, an eye-dotting ceremony with local councillors, fusion music, a face-changing performance and more. photos By Naomi Hiltz
1. Kaden Chung and Greyson Chung 2. Scott Au, managing partner, Mehdi Au LLP, Ryan Au, Phillip Ho, Henry Chui, Joe Li, Joe Li, regional councillor, City of Markham, Don Hamilton, regional councillor, Ward 3, City of Markham, Nirmala Armstrong, regional councillor, City of Markham, Kenny Wan, Karen Rea, regional councillor, Ward 4, City of Markham, and Jack Heath, deputy mayor and regional councillor, City of Markham 3. Annie Ho, vice-president, Richmond Hill and Markham Chinese Business Association, Scott Au, managing partner, Mehdi Au LLP, Ryan Au, Phillip Ho, Henry Chui, Joe Li, Don Hamilton, Nirmala Armstrong, Kenny Wan, Karen Rea and Jack Heath 4. Meredith Blake, senior manager, regional marketing, Cadillac Fairview; and Daryl Clemance, general manager at Cadillac Fairview, CF Markvilleand
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5. Don Hamilton, Joe Li, Daryl Clemance, Jack Heath and Nirmala Armstrong 6. Nirmala Armstrong, Annie Ho and Kenny Wan 7. Joe Li, Henry Chui, Nirmala Armstrong and Karen Rea
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8. Spire Fusion 9. Jack Health 10. Bemice Cheung and Benny Chou and children Brianne Chou and Bosco Chou 11. Amanda Yeung Collucci
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PHOTO: Jim Craigmyle
like a local
CHIC THRILLS, STOUFFVILLE “When I was growing up,” Charlotte Cave says, “I never had enough money to buy the clothes I wanted.” So she would go to second-hand and thrift shops and find “treasures” to mix and match. That experience was the inspiration behind her unique Main Street boutique, Chic Thrills, which also houses The Girls, a bra and lingerie section. Beyond clothing, browsers in Chic Thrills will find purses, jewellery, shoes and scarves to personalize their outfits — both consignment and new. What they won’t find, Cave stresses, is a high-pressured sales environment. Instead, she encourages her clients to explore and find their own style. “I aim for a creative experience, rather than a hard sell,” she says. Chic Thrills, 6316 Main St., Stouffville, chicthrills.ca. Got a favourite spot in your town? Share it with us and you could see it featured here and win a night at the movies. Send your like a local pick to goodlifeeditor@yrmg.com.
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