Goodlife Spring 2015 by York Region GoodLife Magazine

| A P R I L 2 0 1 5

MAR C H / APR I L 2 0 1 5

M A R C H

GOODLIFEMAGAZINE.CA

LET IT RAIN

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Your bridge to smarter living GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 5

Publisher Ian Proudfoot Regional General Manager Shaun Sauve Editor Lee Ann Waterman Contributors Bart Card • Jim Craigmyle • Daniela DiStefano Jennifer Ettinger • Joann MacDonald • Leslee Mason Tracy Smith • Gord Stimmell Director of Advertising Debra Weller Advertising Manager Jennifer Kopacz Advertising Sales Melanie Attridge • Robin Boswell • Jeremy Brown Vern Catania • Judy Fulton • Joelle Hawley • Monika Madden Carola McKee • Trish Miller-Kostin • Ashley Murdoch Alexis Reinhardt • Shelley Thompson Regional Director, Production and Creative Services Katherine Porcheron Editorial Design Lu-Anne Turner Nick Bornino • Jennifer Dallman Director of Business Administration Rob Lazurko Director of Distribution Carol Lamb

GoodLife, Newmarket, Aurora and Area 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 GoodLife 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.

14799 Yonge Street | Aurora 905-727-4626 6 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

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contents

14 18 26

Fashion finds to keep you dry, cosy and looking good this spring

Newmarket home balances sophistication and family friendly

Removing walls makes for harmonious family living

Get more enjoyment from your outdoor space with less work

40 8 | GoodLife â&#x20AC;˘ March - April 2015

14 Home Tour 18 Rooms Gone Right 26 The Low-maintenance Garden 32 In The Crowd 36 Gourmet Pizza at Home 40 We Like It

The United Way recognizes its supporters

Enjoy the endless possibilities, starting with a basic pizza dough recipe

Your New Mens Clothing Destination! MR Menswear has all your necessities and collections from clothing for Formal Events to Business Casual, Weekend Apparel, Outerwear and Accessories... Mike Rathke owner of MR Menswear and Mr. Wardrobe Consulting also offers another option. In today’s business world, it’s hard enough to find time for lunch, and just about impossible to focus your time on updating, replacing or even adding to your wardrobe. Let Mike help you in the convenience of your own home.

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contents

46 Drink 48 People: Maggie McKeown 50 Portfolio 54 Events 56 Beauty Spot 58 Body + Mind 60 Travel 62 In the Kitchen

bijoy’s: fresh and uncomplicated

Spring wines to reawaken your taste buds

Food Network personality and natural cleaning entrepreneur shares her secrets

54 62

Kathryn Gallagher Morton, president of Maplelea Girls, creates uniquely Canadian dolls

Arts, culture and outdoor events for the whole family

Freshen up your beauty routine with the latest products for spring

58 10 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

Lessons from the red carpet

Explore Brazil’s beaches and more...

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 11

editor’s note

Editor

Our new look Spring is a time of renewal. And in that spirit, we bring you a new look and a new focus for our GoodLife magazine. We’re upping our distribution from four times a year to six, so you’ll have a new issue in your hands every other month. And we’ve committed to more local content from Newmarket, Aurora and surrounding area. We start with a new events section that lists arts, cultural and outdoor events happening in your community in the coming months. We visit the charming bijoy’s restaurant in Aurora and meet Kathryn Gallagher Morton, a Newmarket resident and business owner who created a line of uniquely Canadian dolls. On the home front, we tour a recently revamped Glenway area side-split that shows sophisticated style and family-friendly living can co-exist and see how taking down walls allowed an Aurora family to transform their kitchen, living room and breakfast nook into one open and functional area. As cold and snow turns to wet and rain, we offer some water-resistant fashion finds to keep you dry, cosy and looking good this spring. New contributor recipe developer and photographer Emily Blackman has several recipes for gourmet pizza at home and wine expert Gord Stimmell shares his picks for spring sippers. Turn to page 50 for a profile of Food Network personality and natural cleaning entrepreneur Maggie McKeown and a chance to win $120 worth of C is for Clean natural cleaning products. All you need to do to enter is tell us what you want to read about in your GoodLife magazine.

LEEANNWATERMAN Editor

· cri

We hope you enjoy this issue. We’ll be back in May.

Lee Ann Waterman follow us@goodlifeyork | www.goodlifemagazine.ca

Contributors

goodlifeeditor@yrmg.com

· F th

LESLEEMASON

writer

Leslee Mason is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in a number of newspapers and magazines, including the Toronto Star, Today’s Parent and Best Health. A transplanted Torontonian who has called the Newmarket area home for the past 10 years, she says her favourite assignments are typically the ones that have a local focus.

GORDSTIMMELL

JIMCRAIGMYLE

Gord Stimmell has spent the past 35 years studying wines from around the world. He currently tastes and rates up to 6,000 wines a year, both in Canada and in foreign countries. He frequently contributes articles and photography to various Canadian magazines and acts as a judge at tastings and an expert at seminars.

Jim Craigmyle was born in London, England and grew up in Montreal. He had an early start to photography with his interest beginning at the age of 10. He studied photography at Dawson College and Concordia University and began his career in commercial photography in Montreal before relocating to Ontario in 1996. He began his own business in 1993 shooting stock photography. Much of his commercial work is represented by Corbis.

wine writer

photographer

JOANNMACDONALD

JENNIFERETTINGER

A vegan food blogger and nature enthusiast, Joann MacDonald is the proud mother of two children and two beagle-mix rescue dogs. Fuelled by tofu and green tea, she has been writing for as long as she can remember and is a graduate of Western University’s journalism program. Visit her at womaninreallife.com.

Owner of Fit Your Style, Aurora resident Jennifer Ettinger has been working as a certified personal trainer and lifestyle expert for more than a decade. A dual citizen, she jaunts between Canada and the United States as a #SocialTV correspondent. At home, she is a wife, mother and champion of healthy living. Visit her at fityourstyle.com.

writer

fitness and lifestyle expert

do ww 12 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

Will You Lend A Hand? Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not. - The Lorax Dr. Seuss · Founded in 1987 and incorporated in 1989, York Region Abuse Program (YRAP) Childhood Sexual Abuse is a registered charitable organization that provides no-cost trauma therapy to children, youth and adults across the GTA who have experienced Childhood Sexual Abuse. Statistics indicate that 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexual abuse victims. · Each year, YRAP counts on fundraising from its 18th annual signature gala event. The proceeds from this very special evening will provide critically needed trauma therapy for children, youth and adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. Speciﬁcally, funds raised during this evening will be used towards therapy programming as well as the purchase of a therapy dog.

May 2, 2015 Copper Creek

11191 Highway #27, Kleinburg, ON A memorable evening in support of the

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Every dollar counts! To donate online, please visit: www.handinhandgala.com

We Like It

LET IT RAIN BY TRACY SMITH

14 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

AS WE BID ADIEU TO THE SNOW AND COLD, WE MUST MANEUVER THE RAINY, WET AND SOMETIMES MUDDY GROUNDS OF SPRING BEFORE WE CAN OFFICIALLY WELCOME SUMMER. BUT GETTING THROUGH THE SOGGY DAYS OF MARCH AND APRIL DOESN’T HAVE TO BE ALL DOOM AND GLOOM. WE’VE UNCOVERED SOME WATER-RESISTANT FASHION FINDS TO KEEP YOU DRY, COSY AND LOOKING GOOD THIS SPRING.

This spring’s offerings in the rain boot department span the rainbow in colour and come in a variety of heights.

Founded in Canada and known for its warm winter footwear, Pajar also offers an extensive rain line-up. Available at Browns Shoes, Upper Canada Mall; Hudson’s Bay; pajar.com Sprinkle boot, (shown in black and yellow with zipper), $140 Gush boot (shown in pink), $230 Lace-up boot, $100

This versatile low rain boot from Sperry is easy to slip on and looks great with jeans, $130. Available at Hudson’s Bay.

With more than 150 years of experience, Hunter offers a timeless and stylish take on the classic rain boot. Available at Boathouse, Upper Canada Mall; Browns, Upper Canada Mall; Omar’s Shoes, Aurora; Stance, Upper Canada Mall; Walking on a Cloud, Aurora, Newmarket; ca.hunter.com. Original short gloss rain boots, $155 Original slipzip rain boots, $195 Original adjustable gloss rain boots, $170

Protect all of your essentials with a new spring purse that can handle more than a few drops of rain. Montreal-based Matt & Nat is committed to using non-leather materials and no animal-based products in its designs and has several pretty purses perfect for wet weather. Available at Lemonberry, Aurora; Indigo; mattandnat.com. Phi purse (shown in ash), $125 Robby purse (shown in orange), $85 Gil purse (shown in iris), $98 Maya purse (shown in black), $35 A water-friendly coat is a necessity during the wet season.

Add a splash of colour and design with these fun coats from Hudson’s Bay. Novelti iridescent bonded coat in red, $165 Coach mid-length check trench, $635 Windsmoor citron trench, $299 »

4 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 15

We Like It

6 7

8 16 | GoodLife â&#x20AC;˘ March - April 2015

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Hatley offers a range of waterproof coats for women this spring. Our favourites are the on-trend field coat and a chevron print in classic black and white. Available at Hatley Boutique, Upper Canada Mall, hatley.com. Field coat, $199 Rain coat, $169

These stylish and waterproof boots and jackets from Hatley are perfect for walking through the mud or puddle jumping all day long. Available at Hatley Boutique, Upper Canada Mall, hatley.com. Boots, $48 Jackets, $64

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 17

home tour | Newmarket

18 | GoodLife â&#x20AC;˘ March - April 2015

NEWMARKET HOME BALANCES SOPHISTICATION AND FAMILY FRIENDLY

I NVI T ING

Elegance BY LESLEE MASON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM CRAIGMYLE

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 19

home tour | Newmarket Everyone loves the sunroom. The light-filled room features creamcoloured cedar walls and 20-foot ceilings. It’s where a lot of the family fun happens.

Lee Brown is a big fan of beautiful, high quality area rugs made of natural fibres. “If you’re buying all neutral pieces—your sofas your chairs and stuff like that—and you put a very interesting, eclectic or vibrant rug it can really add a huge impact.”

20 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

A games table hints at the family fun that regularly takes place in the light and airy sunroom.

ou’d never know it at first glance but two kids and a pair of pooches live in the swish-looking space that Lee Brown, owner of LRB Interiors, calls home. Though the award-winning designer and her family (fiancé Chris, son Dylan, 13, and daughter Shelby, 11) have lived in the Glenway area side-split for just 18 months, recent renovations and Brown’s talented touch have helped create a welcoming environment that is all theirs. The look is a combination of current trends paired with cherished pieces, including ones brought back from various travels. “Every time I go I buy something that I absolutely love so I have quite a few eclectic pieces from all over the world,” Brown says. Purchases include a solid mahogany drum table from Barbados and various pieces of art. Old books, a collection of beautiful kaleidoscopes and heirlooms like the figurine that belonged to her great-grandmother also share the space. “Pieces that mean something to you or your

heritage or your family I think are very important to have in your space,” says Brown, adding that she encourages her clients to keep items that they love on display. There are also plenty of nods to current and emerging trends throughout the home. “I like to go with where the trends are,” she says, noting these types of pieces are always readily available in stores. Take the blues and navies that are beginning to show up more frequently. “They’re a really nice mix with the existing grays,” says Brown. You’ll see those colour touches in the dining room where a beautiful table made from a century-old door takes centre stage. A large smoked crystal chandelier hangs above it. “It’s a very neat juxtaposition because you wouldn’t normally see a chandelier of that size over an old barn door.” The look plays beautifully against the elegant gray and cream handpainted stencilled wallpaper that adorns the back wall. The room’s got an eclectic mix that we’re seeing a lot of now, says Brown. »

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home tour | Newmarket Heart and function

The home works well for the family thanks in part to a full kitchen renovation.

The home works well for the family thanks in part to a full kitchen renovation. The wall between the eat-in area and the kitchen has been replaced with dark cabinetry and the area opened up. The change enhances the comforts of a great kitchen with more buffet and eating space, extra seating and, of course, room to socialize. The room also extends nicely into their outdoor space. “We have French doors going out to the pool, the hot tub and deck area and then we have doors off the sunroom heading out to the same space. It really functions quite well for us,” says Brown. While the kitchen may be the heart of the home, everyone also loves the sunroom, part of an addition that includes a loft off the master bedroom. The light-filled room features creamcoloured cedar walls and 20-foot ceilings. It’s where a lot of the family fun happens. Karaoke and game nights are regularly held there and the

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room also functions as a music and art space for Shelby. “It’s a really pretty, bright room,” says Brown. Though not a huge home, it meets the family’s needs. Along with plenty of shared spaces, the kids have their own areas to hang out with friends and Brown’s work space is now there as well. “I have a beautiful studio in my home but I mostly go to the client,” she says, adding she usually has between 10 and 12 projects on the go. With a design business practice that takes her all over the Greater Toronto Area and the many activities that the kids take part in, the home provides a relaxing environment at the end of their busy days. Its design is also a natural fit with Brown’s decorating philosophy—that spaces should relate to one another. “It’s an interesting layout,” she says. “I’ve never had an opportunity to decorate a side-split so I’m happy with how this turned out.” »

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home tour | Newmarket

The master bedroom features an adjoining loft with a gas fireplace that overlooks the sun room.

BRING IN SPRING After a long winter who isn’t ready to inject a little spring into their space? Take a page out of a designer’s handbook with these tips from Lee Brown: • Add a pretty pop of colour by painting an accent wall or adding some new accessories. Toss cushions are a fast way to freshen up the look of a room. •

Welcome the outdoors in with touches of greenery. Forsythia and pussy willows are two of Brown’s picks. “I always find that flowers, bulbed plants and any kind of greenery really help to bring in the spring.”

•

Play with furniture arrangement or move items around the house. “Sometimes I change my art work from room to room which helps add a different flare,” Brown says. Interchanging items such as knickknacks, planters, throw blankets or even lamps can create a totally different look. “You’re not buying anything new you’re just accessorizing differently in different rooms.”

24 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

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rooms gone right | Kitchen + Family Room

26 | GoodLife â&#x20AC;˘ March - April 2015

GRAND OPENING A CLAUSTROPHOBIC SPACE WITH SALMON AND GREEN COUNTERTOPS, FLUORESCENT PANEL-LIGHTING AND COGNAC MDF CABINETS IS HOW KASIE SAVAGE DESCRIBES THE STATE OF THE KITCHEN WHEN HER FAMILY MOVED INTO ITS AURORA HOME SEVEN YEARS AGO.

REMOVING WALLS MAKES FOR

Harmonious Family Living BY TRACY SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM CRAIGMYLE

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 27

rooms gone right | Kitchen + Family Room

AFTER

ith three sons under the age of four, Kasie and Brad Savage put off a kitchen overhaul in favour of some temporary upgrades aimed at making the kitchen more cheerful, current and open: new lighting, new paint for the cupboards and removing a couple walls. “The changes were never meant to be long lasting and it didn’t take long for the kitchen to start showing its age again,” Kasie confesses. “It’s sort of like putting lipstick on a 20-year-old pig.” Last spring, the Savages decided to put an end to all the short-term solutions and finally redo the kitchen with a long-term vision of what would work best for their busy family, which includes sons Wyatt, Noah and Spencer. In six weeks, they were able to transform their kitchen, living room and breakfast nook into one open and functional area. Removing all the kitchen walls (and adding a 15-foot steel beam in the ceiling for support) created a large area for eating, living and entertaining. The new space allows the entire family to be together no matter what they were doing— cooking, eating, school work, watching television, listening to music, reading, entertaining or sitting by the fire. 28 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

BEFORE

They invested in quality finishes where they would have the greatest impact: solid wood cabinetry, granite countertops and refinishing the hardwood on the entire main floor. Savings were found in less expensive choices on the decorative touches: a subway tile backsplash, a decorative mirror and cabinet hardware. They also kept their relatively new appliances. “When adding in the decorative touches, my philosophy is to research the low and high options that are available and then pick the lower and make it look high,” Kasie says. “The subway tile is a great example: I wanted it to look good but, more importantly, I wanted to be able to wipe spaghetti sauce off of it easily. There are a lot of subway tiles out there at really affordable prices so if I can achieve the look and avoid the price tag, why not?” Now that the dust has settled, the Savages agree the new kitchen is the place to be, the true hub of their home. “Being able to cook and see my entire family around me, all doing different things but still connected to each other is the perfect picture,” says Kasie. “It’s exactly what we had hoped for with these changes.” »

AFTER

BEFORE The new space allows the entire family to be together no matter what they are doing.

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 29

rooms gone right | Kitchen + Family Room

FAVOURITE FEATURE THE COUNTERTOP

ATTENTION TO DETAIL: Grey grout was chosen instead of white to pull a bit of colour from the countertop and make the backdrop a bit warmer. The tiles are offset by thirds for a contemporary twist on a classic design.

“Every fibre in my being wanted to play it safe with a solid, neutral colour for the countertop, but a quiet, nagging voice told me to get out of my comfort zone and I am so happy that I did,” says Kasie Savage.

STYLE GOAL A transitional look—classic yet contemporary with a little French flare (to pay tribute to Kasie’s French Canadian heritage).

WHY THE CHANGE? • Dated and worn kitchen • Little functionality for family of five

RENOVATION CHECKLIST • Open concept • Light and bright • Kitchen island with pendant lighting • New cabinetry • Contemporary classic design • Inviting space to host friends and family

BEST ADVICE “Think timeless, classic and resale when spending money. Even if a move is not on your horizon, keeping things classic, avoids items looking too trendy or passé in a few years,” says Kasie.

30 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

SOURCES Beige chair and couch: saturday afternoons, Aurora Blue chairs: Basset, Vaughan Table: Bowring Rug: Lowes Cabinets: Kitchen Craft Subway tile: Tilemaster, Aurora Countertop: Alaska gold granite, Pro Stone Baseboards: Royal Woodshop, Aurora Kitchen designs: Jackie Veneri, styleitwithjackie.com Contractor: Evan Powell Contracting Paint: walls, Grey Owl, Benjamin Moore OC-52; trim, Oxford White, Benjamin Moore CC-30

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feature | Low-maintenance gardening

Less work â&#x20AC;˘ more enjoyment

Tips for a Low-Maintenance Garden by Carson Arthur | photography by Bob Gundu

32 | GoodLife â&#x20AC;˘ March - April 2015

e Spring. Has. Arrived.

hose are possibly the three most magical words to any resident of Ontario, where winter isn’t simply a season, it’s a test of patience. Warmer days mean escaping the confines of your home and discovering the outdoors again, without the fear of frostbite. When the time finally comes to pull out those deck chairs and dust off the barbecue cover, the last thing we want to do is think about the outdoor chores that accompany the warmer weather. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as nomaintenance gardening. And pushing our outdoor chores to the bottom of our “to-do” list makes them seem more and more daunting and unmanageable. Well guess what? They don’t need to be! Through “smart gardening” you can create a low-maintenance green space that allows you to spend less time caring for your backyard and more time enjoying it!

Here are my top five tips for reducing your outdoor chores this spring. Do a little each day. Treat your outdoor space like your household and make regular maintenance a priority. Do a little work more often. Take five or 10 minutes each day to spend in your garden. In addition to sprucing up your outdoor space, you may find the time outside helps you unwind at the end of a long day. Use the right tools. Take the time and extra care to make sure your equipment is clean and honed. Just like your kitchen knives, the blades on your gardening equipment work best when they are sharp. Sharp pruners and mowers will only make your life easier and maintaining these tools will save you time and money in the long run. They’ll make a cleaner cut and they are safer to use. I also recommend using a steel brush to clean equipment after use and treating wooden handles with linseed oil to keep them from drying out. »

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Use greenery in your container gardening and add colour with pots and other accessories.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 33

feature | Low-maintenance gardening 3 ways to sharpen your tools • Invest in a good grinder. Lots of sparks may intimidate some, but if you're confident, the grinder will give you the sharpest edge for spades and shovels. • A whetstone is a simple way to get that sharp edge, it just takes a little patience. Sliding the whetstone repeatedly along the edge of your tools will definitely hone them, just give yourself some time to do it right. • A knife sharpener works for small pruning shears and secateurs. Small blades can easily be sharpened the same way as your kitchen knives. If you have a manual or electric sharpener, give it a try.

Pick the right materials. Picking the right products is essential to maximizing the longevity and value of your outdoor space. But with so many new products entering the market, choosing the right one can be tricky, especially when it comes to wood. You want durable treated wood that will last year upon year without decay but is also affordable. Personally, I use a pressure-treated wood called MicroPro Sienna that looks like cedar but is only a fraction of the cost. Plus, its treatment process gives it a beautiful, rich brown shade that doesn’t lose its lustre, so I don’t need to re-stain it every spring. This leaves more time to spend on my deck entertaining, rather than maintaining. Choose long-lasting low-maintenance materials for outdoor structures such as decks, gazebos and pergolas.

Go native

The right native plants can provide low-maintenance beauty to your backyard. My favourite native plants to use in landscaping are varieties that give back. For example, plants that remove carbon dioxide from the air or are natural food sources for native bees and birds.

Here are my top choices for plants, trees and shrubs native to York Region:

Canadian Hemlock

Serviceberries and redbuds

Columbine

This is my top choice for a great evergreen that thrives in both shade and sun. Hemlock is considered a top performer when it comes to removing carbon emissions. They can grow up to 18 metres (60 feet) tall, so choose your location wisely when planting these trees. If you are using hemlock for privacy, consider mixing with Canadian River birch.

With spring flowers, good foliage and excellent fall colour, these two medium-sized shrubs are great choices for every garden. Plant in somewhat shaded areas. Expect these natives to grow to about 3 or 3-1/2 metres (10 to 12 feet) tall.

Columbine is an ideal perennial for most homeowners. Beautiful blooms are favourites for hummingbirds and other nectar collectors. Light sun or shade makes these small flowering plants happy.

34 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

Get strategic with your vegetation. Some beautiful plants are a lot more high maintenance than others. You may like the look of annuals or hybrid perennials, but you may be spending a lot more time watering and caring for them and less time enjoying. Instead, choose a few small trees or even shrubs to take their place in your garden—they often require less fertilizing, watering and general upkeep. Or choose plants that are native to your region. Not only will they require less maintenance, but they will be more resistant to disease, allowing you to maximize the longevity of your green space with as little work as possible. Sounds good to me! Use colourful planters instead of colourful plants. Everyone wants a bit of colour in the backyard, but plants that flower usually require significantly more attention and care than plants that don’t. Most flowering perennials and several annuals only bloom for a few weeks. If you’re looking for purples, pinks or blues to adorn your green space, choose a con-

tainer that already has those colours and fill it with lush ferns or rich grasses. Plus, planters have versatility—you can place these “mini-gardens” virtually anywhere, be it on your balcony, pergola or patio, allowing you to change up the design aesthetic of your backyard in a moment’s notice. When not in the dirt with his eco-friendly landscape design company, Carson Arthur stays busy building, planting, writing or designing as a featured guest on CityLine. His new show Critical Listing is currently airing on HGTV Canada. For more information, visit carsonarthur.com.

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 35

in the crowd

UNITED WAY HAPPY HOUR The United Way of York Region hosted a “happy hour” Jan. 22 to presents its annual Spirit Awards, which are given to organizations, campaigns, teams and individuals who go above and beyond in their support of the United Way, and update its supporters on its $30 million In the Every Neighbourhood campaign. At the midpoint of the ambitious three-year campaign, the United Way is 53 per cent toward its goal and has helped 209,907 people in our communities. NICK IWAYNSHYN PHOTOGRAPHY

1. York Regional Police Chief Eric Jolliffe, Karen Richards and Deputy Chief Thomas Carrique 2. Canso Investment Counsel Ltd employees Christopher Klubi, Brian Kim, Natalie Carswell, Jason Bell and Jason Davies

3. York Region commissioner of finance Bill Hughes, CAO Bruce Macgregor, executive assistant to the chairman Lina Bigioni and chairman Wayne Emerson 4. Canso Investment Counsel Ltd employees Joseph Ho, Sophie Cote, Omar Salihbegovic, Christina Valente and Thomas Raso 5. MMM Group Limited employees Brian Stonehouse, Monica Vacca, Martina Betkova, Claire Basinki and Jason Leong

2 3

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food | pizza

GOURMET

PIZZA AT HOME

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY BLACKMAN

THE KEY TO A TRULY GREAT PIZZA IS THE DOUGH. THIS DOUGH RECIPE MAY SEEM A LITTLE COMPLICATED BUT IS ACTUALLY QUITE EASY— YOU JUST NEED TO PLAN TO START THE DOUGH 24 HOURS BEFORE YOUR MEAL. THE BENEFIT OF THIS DOUGH RECIPE IS THAT THERE IS LITTLE KNEADING REQUIRED; THE INCREASED RESTING TIME DOES THE WORK FOR YOU.

40 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

The options are endless for topping your pie. I have chosen some of my familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite combinations and I hope that you enjoy them as well. Simple is always best and using the freshest ingredients will only make your pizza that much better. Buon appetito!

PIZZA DOUGH

{Makes enough for 5, 12-inch pizzas} INGREDIENTS 1 kg all purpose flour, plus more for shaping and transferring pizzas 750 mL (3 cups) water 17 mL (3 1/2 tsp) salt 1/2 mL (1/8 tsp) instant dry yeast METHOD At 8 p.m. the night before you want to make the pizza, mix 500 g of flour with yeast and 500 mL of water at 26 to 28 Celsius in a large bowl. Mix ingredients by hand until no lumps remain. Cover bowl with plastic bag or wrap. 12-14 hours later (9 a.m.), the mixture should have tripled in volume and small bubbles should be popping on the surface every few seconds. Add remaining 500 g flour, salt and 250 mL of water at 37 to 40 Celsius to bowl. Mix until flour is incorporated and dough begins to get smooth. The dough will still be very sticky so it may help to wet your mixing hand a few times during this process. Cover bowl and let rest 20 minutes. Take one side of dough, pull until the dough offers some resistance and fold it over on top of remaining dough. Repeat this process 5 or 6 times around the perimeter of dough and finish by flipping dough upside down. Cover, rest 20 minutes and repeat process. The dough should be firmer and very smooth. Cover and wait until it has increased in volume 2-1/2 times, approximately 6 hours (4 p.m.). Note: This is a very wet dough that can be difficult to handle the first few times you make it and should be cooked directly on a very hot stone for best results. Firebricks from a local masonry supply store are a great alternative to pre-made stones and can be cut and arranged to fit your oven. Pizza paddles can be found at many kitchen and department stores.

Lightly flour your work surface and the top of dough. Apply more flour around the perimeter of dough in the bowl and work your way around the bowl, loosening the dough until it is ready to be flipped upside down and onto your work surface. Lightly flour dough and divide into 5 equal portions of around 330 g. Form into balls and place each one into a lightly oiled bowl or container, cover and refrigerate. The dough will keep for 4 days in the fridge in a well-sealed container. One hour before you are ready to bake the pizzas, remove dough from fridge.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 41

food | pizza

RICOTTA AND SPINACH PIZZA {Makes 2 pizzas} INGREDIENTS 2, 330 g pizza dough balls 1 tub ricotta cheese 900 g (2 lbs) spinach 4 cloves garlic, minced salt and pepper olive oil flour METHOD Place a pizza stone, or fire bricks, in the oven and preheat to 550 Fahrenheit. This will take approximately 30 minutes. While this is heating, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil to the pan then add garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper, fry for 1 minute. Add the spinach and wilt. Set aside to cool. Chop the spinach mixture when cooled

BREAKFAST PIZZA {Makes 2 pizzas} INGREDIENTS 2, 330 g pizza dough balls 6 slices thin-sliced bacon, cooked 125 mL (1/2 cup) organic crushed tomatoes 750 mL (3 cups) shredded mozzarella 2 eggs 30 mL (2 tbsp) chives, chopped salt and pepper flour METHOD Place pizza stone or firebricks in oven and preheat to 550 Fahrenheit. This will take approximately 30 minutes.

42 | GoodLife â&#x20AC;˘ March - April 2015

Lightly flour a large pizza paddle. Lightly flour the top of one dough ball and carefully remove container. The flour will prevent it from sticking to your fingers. Carefully stretch out the dough into a 30-cm (12inch) circle, using a rolling pin if necessary. Place it on the paddle and, working quickly, top with half the crushed tomatoes, cheese, cooked bacon and finally crack an egg on top. Shake the dough on the paddle to make sure the dough is not sticking. Using a sharp pull, place the pizza directly on the hot stone in the oven. Bake for approximately 5 minutes, then, using paddle, take the pizza out of the oven. Sprinkle the pizza with a pinch of sea salt and pepper and the chives. Serve immediately.

Lightly flour a large pizza paddle. Lightly flour the top of one dough ball and carefully remove container. The flour will prevent it from sticking to your fingers. Carefully stretch out the dough into a 30cm (12-inch) circle, using a rolling pin if necessary. Place it on the paddle and, working quickly, top with half the spinach mixture and enough ricotta cheese to cover the pizza. Shake the dough on the paddle to make sure the dough is not sticking. Using a sharp pull, place the pizza directly on the hot stone in the oven. Bake for approximately 5 minutes, then, using paddle, take the pizza out of the oven. Sprinkle the pizza with a pinch of sea salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

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Place a pizza stone, or fire bricks, in the oven and preheat to 550 Fahrenheit. This will take approximately 30 minutes.

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METHOD

Lightly flour a large pizza paddle. Lightly flour the top of one dough ball and carefully remove container. The flour will prevent it from sticking to your fingers. Carefully stretch out the dough into a 30-cm (12-inch) circle, using a rolling pin if necessary. Place it on the paddle and, working quickly, top with whole leaves of basil, alternating pieces of tomato and cheese and top with a drizzle of olive oil. Shake the dough on the paddle to make sure the dough is not sticking. Using a sharp pull, place the pizza directly on the hot stone in the oven. Bake for approximately 5 minutes, then, using paddle, take the pizza out of the oven. Top pizza with a pinch of sea salt and pepper and a drizzle of reduced vinegar and serve.

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food | pizza SHITAKE MUSHROOM AND BLUE CHEESE Pizza {Makes 2 pizzas} INGREDIENTS 2, 330 g pizza dough balls 20 shiitake mushrooms, caps only

Shake the dough on the paddle to make sure the dough is not sticking. Using a sharp pull, place the pizza directly on the hot stone in the oven. Bake for approximately 5 minutes, then, using paddle, take the pizza out of the oven. Sprinkle the pizza with a pinch of pepper and serve immediately.

400 g (14 oz) blue cheese, such as gorgonzola 4 medium onions, sliced olive oil salt and pepper flour METHOD Place a pizza stone, or fire bricks, in the oven and preheat to 550 Fahrenheit. This will take approximately 30 minutes. While the oven is heating, brown the onions in 30 mL (2 tbsp) olive oil over medium low heat with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This should take at least 15 minutes. Set aside. In another pan, sauté mushroom tops in a 45 mL (3 tbsp) olive oil over high heat. Season with salt and pepper.

SAGE, SAUSAGE & SQUASH Pizza {Makes 2 pizzas} INGREDIENTS 2, 330 g pizza dough balls 1/2 butternut squash, in 1/2-cm (1/4-inch) cubes 400 g (14 oz) brie, diced 4 sausages, mild Italian or similar 1 package sage salt and pepper olive oil flour METHOD Place a pizza stone, or fire bricks, in the oven and preheat to 550 Fahrenheit. This will take approximately 30 minutes. While the oven is warming, heat a large skillet with 45 mL (3 tbsp) olive oil and sauté the diced squash until golden brown and soft in the

44 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

middle. Set aside to cool. Take the sausage out of the casing and cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through. Set aside to cool. Lightly flour a large pizza paddle. Lightly flour the top of one dough ball and carefully remove container. The flour will prevent it from sticking to your fingers. Carefully stretch out the dough into a 30-cm (12-inch) circle, using a rolling pin if necessary. Place it on the paddle and, working quickly, top with half the sausage, brie, squash and 5 or so sage leaves. Shake the dough on the paddle to make sure the dough is not sticking. Using a sharp pull, place the pizza directly on the hot stone in the oven. Bake for approximately 5 minutes, then, using paddle, take the pizza out of the oven. Sprinkle the pizza with a pinch of sea salt and pepper. Drizzle with a little olive oil and serve immediately.

• RESTAURANTS • FOOD • ENTERTAINMENT

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 45

in the kitchen|bijoy’s

S m all space bi g flavou rs By Tracy Smith | photography by Jim Craigmyle

ituated in a 150-year-old home just a block from Yonge Street in old Aurora lies a quaint little restaurant known to its regulars simply as bijoy’s. With only six parking spots and a capacity of 30 patrons, reservations are usually needed to guarantee a seat, especially at lunch time, when the small dining room is most often filled with local women. “It doesn’t matter what you order, the food is always so delicious and bursting with amazing flavour,” says bijoy’s regular Jane Reeves, an Aurora resident. “The variety of what they serve is impressive and every dish has its own special flavour.” For almost six years, the subtle charm of this small restaurant—the intimate dining room with its large windows and closely spaced tables covered in white tablecloths—makes customers feel at home. Bijoy and Sujata Kanianthra, the husband and wife team behind bijoy’s, work together to bring customers food that is simple, healthy and delicious at an affordable price. “Nature’s done its job and we are trying to do our job by bringing it to the table” says Bijoy, whose favourite dish to prepare is the lamb curry. Featuring unique items and flavour combinations is important to head chef Bijoy, who likes to change things up on a regular basis. Sweet and savoury dishes are prepared on site in the small but efficient kitchen visible from the entrance: fresh focaccia and balsamic dip to start things off, an extensive selection of teas, a smoked salmon quiche, an aromatic Moroccan soup or curried chicken pot pie followed by pavlova or sticky toffee pudding. 46 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

“

Bijoy’s gives us the opportunity to share with our community all that we have learned over the years.” Bijoy feels food should be fresh and uncomplicated: “An apple is an apple. A chef’s job is not to change an apple into something else, but rather present it to customers in a new way that enhances its natural flavours.” Bijoy and Sujata have many years of experience in the hospitality industry, giving them a wealth of knowledge gained from time spent in Canada, Europe and India. Their experiences range from working in large name brand hotels, including the Sheraton and the Intercontinental, to being a part of smaller, privately owned restaurants and running a catering business. The couple has been exposed to many different philosophies of cuisine, hospitality and business management. “Opening our own restaurant allows us to be creative and to offer the types of food and service that we believe in,” Bijoy reflects. “Bijoy’s gives us the opportunity to share with our community all that we have learned over the years.” bijoy’s restaurant 42 Temperance St., Aurora 905-727-7149 bijoysrestaurant.com

BIJOY’S TOFFEE CRUNCH Makes 4 servings.

INGREDIENTS 4 egg yolks, beaten 375 mL (1-1/2 cups) half and half cream 1 vanilla bean or 10 mL (2 tsp) vanilla extract 125 mL (1/2 cup) white sugar, divided

METHOD Heat oven to 350 Fahrenheit. Caramelize sugar by placing 15 mL (1 tbsp) of water in a frying pan with 60 mL (1/4 cup) sugar and heat over medium heat. The sugar will slowly change colour; be patient and do not stir until solution starts to change colour. Once the sugar/water mixture has turned dark brown, add cream and bring to a boil. (The cream mixture can burn easily so watch carefully.)

Pour hot cream mixture over the egg yolks and add 60 mL (1/4 cup) sugar and vanilla. Strain mixture through sieve and pour into ramekins. Place the ramekins in a deep pan or casserole dish and pour hot tap water into the pan around the ramekins until the water sits halfway up the height of the ramekins. Bake until the custard is set, about 45 minutes. Remove and cool in refrigerator. Before serving, sprinkle sugar on top of the custard and brown using a crème brulé torch or by broiling. (Sugar burns very quickly so heat just until a crust is formed.) Garnish with seasonal fruit or toffee shavings and enjoy!

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 47

drink|spring wines

WINES

TO PUT A SPRIN G I N YO UR S T E P • BY GORD STIMMELL

WE ARE ALL DREAMING OF SPRING, THE FIRST YELLOW DAFFODIL, SHY VIOLET CROCUSES PEEKING FROM THE EARTH, LIME GREEN BUDS ON TREE LIMBS SIGNALING A REAWAKENING OF LIFE.

owever, in Ontario sometimes you need the patience of Job. The cold Great Lakes hold back the heat, and snowstorms can still come knocking. Which brings us to spring wines. I have five to keep you alive for first warmth. With nature in bloom, you might think floral accented white wines like muscat, viognier and gewürztraminer. But I know few who adore this wine style. Our two price-beater whites, a sauvignon blanc and a chardonnay nestle in the $10 zone. I am envisioning the first front porch or back deck gathering of friends and a plate of cheese, paté and breads. A first celebration of winter survival. For reds, we start with Gnarly Head pinot noir. Considering that most pinot noirs worth their salt are more than $20, this is a steal. This

48 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

style of pinot noirs is slightly lighter than big bold cabernets. They are ideal with mushroom dishes, like risotto, but also with white meats, such as pork medallions or veal chops. And in spring, we cannot help but think barbecue. The beast is still there, the mounds of snow finally melted off it, and it’s time to fire it up for some seriously seared meats. We have two perfect barbecue reds. The newcomer Carnivor blends cabernet sauvignon with some merlot and is big in style. Ribs slathered with spicy hot sauce spring to mind with this mellow gusher. The Red Knot shows a bit more finesse and is ideal with butterflied leg of lamb on the grill or any kind of thick juicy steak. Even without food, these wines will put a spring in your step. Enjoy!

Beaulieu Vineyards Coastal 2013 Sauvignon Blanc $10.95 (California) Great party starter white! Aromas of fruit salad, melon, pineapple and yellow apple with lemon-lime flavours hinting of ripe apple ending with a crisp citrus finish. LCBO #295253 Rating: 89+ Food suggestion: Shrimp or crab dishes.

Argento 2013 Chardonnay $9.95 (Argentina) Fabulous value! Smoky nutty apple, charred oak and poached pear aromas and flavours of yellow apple, lime, lemon and a hint of grapefruit. Light oak keeps it zesty. LCBO #591701 Rating: 90 Food suggestion: Chicken or turkey.

Gnarly Head 2012 Pinot Noir $14.95 (California) Smoke, blueberry, blackberry and beetroot in the aromas, with smoky black cherry, strawberry and dried dates in a mellow, super smooth delivery. LCBO #358911 Rating: 90 Food suggestion: Clove studded baked ham.

Carnivor 2013 Cabernet $16.95 (California) This red is a new, very bold and dense newcomer with rich vanilla, plum and smoky blackberry aromas and lush mellow black cherry and vanilla bean flavours. Delicious! LCBO #392647 Rating: 90 Food suggestion: Steaks or kebabs.

Red Knot 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon $17.95 (Australia) Lavish plum, black cherry and cedar scents with a gush of vanillalaced black cherry and blueberry pie delivered in a round plump manner. LCBO #91702 Rating: 90 Food suggestion: Rib roast, lamb.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 49

people |Maggie McKeown

Chef and entrepreneur

Maggie McKeown comes clean b y Joa nn MacDona ld | photogr aphy b y Ji m Craigmyle

fter graduating from the University of Toronto with a degree in history, she decided to pursue her love of food and landed a spot at the Culinary Institute of America, a prestigious, degree-granting culinary school in Hyde Park, New York. She went on to apprentice at the historic Connaught hotel in London, England and was on-hand for the hotel’s 175th anniversary and a visit from Queen Elizabeth. McKeown returned to Canada in 1997 and became national spokesperson for Kraft Canada, creating recipes for the cheese division.

50 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

With a desire to put corporate life behind her, she joined partner Esther Benaim to open Great Cooks and The T Spot at Hudson Bay’s flagship Queen Street store in 1999. The pair offered cooking classes in the back of the shop and tea and lunch in the front. The success of the restaurant led to a second larger space on the Bay’s eighth floor, Great Cooks on Eight. “We served 500 to 1,000 people a day,” McKeown says. “We did cooking classes and catering too—the whole nine yards. It was crazy.” Ten years later, and pregnant with twins,

From donuts to dirt, Food Network personality and natural cleaning entrepreneur Maggie McKeown has covered a lot of ground in her career, but has never strayed far from the kitchen. McKeown realized a restaurateur’s lifestyle would no longer work for her and her family. She turned her attention to caring for sons Henry and Jonathan, now five, with husband Bill Meredith, an IT consultant. Raised in Markham and a graduate of St. Robert Catholic High School, McKeown lives in Markham today. It wasn’t long before another career beckoned. When the boys were a year old, the Food Network called and asked McKeown to audition for Recipes to Riches, a show that sees home cooks compete to have their recipes become President’s Choice products. “I nearly told them no,” she says. “The restaurant was very tough, so somehow having kids was easy and nice. I didn’t want to do it.” With her husband’s encouragement, she attended the audition and got the part, working with contestants in the kitchen for two seasons. “I loved it. It was so friggin’ fun,” she says. That role led to a more recent stint as a judge on the Food Network’s Donut Showdown, now the Number 1 show on the Cooking Channel in the United States.

With two seasons complete, McKeown estimates she has sampled about 240 donuts. “That’s a lot of donuts,” she says. “There were some amazing ones, but there were some disgusting ones too.” Disgusting donuts aside, McKeown rates her experiences on the show highly. “It’s really fun. We spend our day laughing and having a wonderful time. There’s nothing serious about a donut.” McKeown admires the contestants. “They’re hard-working people,” she says. “They really were starstruck. They’re working in little shops and they come to the show and there’s a crew of maybe 70 people. They come to the set and they’re nervous like hell. It was really sweet. One guy wanted to win to put a bathroom in his shop. This was a big deal for them.” With only so many types of donuts to test, the Food Network is looking to launch the Ultimate Showdown, featuring everything from pasta to pizza to sauces. McKeown is a judge on the pilot episode, which she says had “gargantuan ratings in the U.S.” While the fate of the show is to be determined, McKeown isn’t stressing. “You just have to keep going on with what you’re doing.” What she’s doing is continuing to market her all-natural cleaning products through C is for Clean, a company she co-owns with her sister. As a chef, McKeown grew accustomed to using toxic cleaning products. “ In an industrial kitchen, at the end of the day you would bleach the floors,” she says. “That was the smell of the end of my day.” When her kids came along, the concerned mother turned to green cleaners. But she wasn’t satisfied with those commercially available at the time. “There is no truth in our labelling laws,” she says. “Green cleaners may be as toxic or more toxic than conventional cleaners.” While conducting research, McKeown discovered vinegar was the most efficient natural cleaner. “I tried to use vinegar, but I hated the smell,” she says. After some initial attempts at infusing vinegar with fresh lavender, she studied essential oils and natural cleaning recipes that her grandmother might have used. It took her two years to formulate a recipe she was satisfied with. “I was just looking for a solution for myself,” she notes. “I wasn’t looking to sell it. But then people would come over and they liked the

smell of my house. All of a sudden I’m making cleaner for everybody. I started adding the scent and everybody loved it.” C is for Clean all-purpose cleaners harness the power of vinegar, with the addition of natural ingredients such as floral water, witch hazel distillate, essential oils and pure vanilla extract. The line includes edible-sounding varieties such as lavender and vanilla, sweet orange and lemongrass, pink grapefruit, lime and ginger and a seasonal peppermint and clementine. With pretty yet minimalist labels and a colourful ribbon tied around the top of each bottle, the cleaners have been flying off the shelves at Toronto’s One of a Kind shows. C is for Clean has made One of a Kind favourites lists in Chatelaine and the National Post. “People really like it,” McKeown says. “C is for Clean is going gangbusters. We’ve made thousands of bottles so far.” “All-purpose” in this case really means allpurpose. “I use it on my boots, carpet stains, upholstery, granite, in toilets and even on touch devices,” McKeown says. “It’s the only cleaner I have. I literally use it on anything.” Because it contains vinegar, C is for Clean shouldn’t be used on porous surfaces, such as marble, unsealed stone and computer or television screens. If C is for Clean costs more than conventional grocery store products, there’s good reason. “We use real, expensive stuff,” McKeown says. “Only essential oils for fragrance and Nielsen-Massey top-of-the-line vanilla. People understand quality.” »

Let C is for Clean and GoodLife give you a hand with your spring cleaning. Tell us what you want to read about in your GoodLife magazine for a chance to win $120 worth of C is for Clean natural cleaning products. Enter to win at goodlifemagazine.ca/ article/000449/Maggie-McKeown

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 51

people |Maggie McKeown CLEAN SWEEP MAGGIE McKEOWN OFFERS HER TOP TIPS FOR SPRING CLEANING

Make a list. Too many tasks can feel overwhelming. Spring cleaning is all about detail cleaning—the extra stuff like baseboards, carpets and chandeliers. Go easy on yourself and don’t include everyday tasks on the list.

C is for Clean all-purpose cleaners harness the power of vinegar, with the addition of natural ingredients such as floral water, witch hazel distillate, pure vanilla extract and essential oils, including lavender, orange, lemongrass, pink grapefruit, lime and ginger. C is for Clean all-purpose cleaners are available at Newmarket’s Nature’s Emporium or online at cisforclean.com, where orders of $40 or more get free delivery.

Tackle one room or project at a time. Set reasonable goals and timelines. It can’t all be done in a day. Give yourself a break and enjoy the work and the results.

De-clutter! Having too much stuff hinders a good deep clean. Rooms can be so filled with stuff it makes it impossible to get to the area that needs the clean. Feel great about ridding yourself of clutter.

being able to finish it because you don’t have the proper tools. For example, if you’ll be vacuuming, ensure you have a stock of vacuum bags.

Remember it’s just as important to clean what you don’t see as it is what you do see. Don’t forget the vents behind your fridge and stove or the lint traps in the dryer.

Open up as many windows as possible and let the fresh air into your home. Nothing is healthier for you and your home than fresh air!

Divide and conquer. My father used to always say, “Many hands make light work.” Make sure everyone in your home is involved in cleaning and caring for it.

Have the right tools for the job. Nothing is more frustrating than starting a job and not

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portfolio|Kathryn Gallagher Morton W e ta l k t oy s w i t h K at h ry n G a l l a g h e r M o r t o n , president of Maplelea Girls

he Maplelea Girls, a popular collection of dolls, live all over Canada—from farm country in the prairies to the funky neighbourhood of Cabbagetown in Toronto—but their creator has local roots. For the past 19 years, Kathryn Gallagher Morton has called Newmarket home and that’s also where you’ll find Maplelea, tucked away on a quiet winding street. It’s a long way from British Columbia where Morton originally hails. Born in Ashcroft, B.C., but raised in Kamloops, she attended UBC where she got a degree in social work and then her master’s degree in business administration. After graduation, she spent the next few years in banking before deciding she wanted a more creative line of work. In 1985, she headed to Toronto where she spent a short stint at a toy company. It wasn’t long before an idea took hold and she jumped head first into her own business—creating custom plush mascots.

buying them because there are so few cultural icons that are ours and ours alone.” Another idea took hold—a collection of dolls that represented different parts of Canada—but it took 10 years to bring that vision to life.

A doll is born In 2003, after years of research and work, the Maplelea Girls launched with four 18-inch (about 46-centimetre) vinyl dolls. The Maplelea Girls are more than just pretty dolls with pretty clothes, Morton says. “These dolls have significance—they have stories.” Along with hailing from different parts of the country, such as Banff, Alta. and Lunenburg, N.S., each of the girls in the collection has her own unique history, interests and hobbies and a wardrobe that reflects her lifestyle. Doll owners can read all about that girl in a journal where, in the second half of the book, they are also encouraged to share their lives.

Thedollmaker b y Les le e Ma s on | photography by Ji m Craigm yle

During that time, Morton says that she was approached to create an Anne of Green Gables doll based on the beloved story character. Though interest fizzled from that second party, Morton was convinced that there was a market. In 1988, she launched Avonlea Traditions, a wholesale company that specialized in collectible dolls and giftware. It was the success of the Anne dolls that eventually led to the Maplelea Girls. “From being in the Anne of Green Gables business I realized that Canadians were really kind of starved for things that were our own,” Morton says. “Anne was really appreciated by visitors to our country who purchased a lot of Anne products but it was also Canadians

54 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

Since the initial launch, the company has introduced two new Maplelea Girls, Léonie from Quebec City and Saila from Iqaluit, Nunavut. Saila’s trilingual journal (it’s written in English, French and Inuktitut) paints an optimistic yet realistic portrayal of life North of 60 from the housing styles to the history to Saila’s likes and dislikes. Alongside her trendy preteen gear, Saila’s wardrobe reflects her Inuit heritage, including traditional kamiik (boots), Pang hat and amauti (parka). There are still many stories to share with Maplelea Girls but Morton says that they realized they’d never be able to tell every girl’s tale. With that in mind, the company introduced Maplelea Friends, 12 dolls featuring a range of

The department of education in Nunavut bought more than 200 dolls to put in every child care program in the territory because it was so culturally relevant.

skin tones and hair and eye colours. Each doll comes with a journal featuring story starters, prompts and blank pages to help doll owners tell their own stories and create ones for their dolls.

Distinctly Canadian Dolls, furniture and most accessories are made overseas in what Morton describes as a “high quality, highly monitored factory.” (There are no doll factories in Canada.) Everything else from sculpting to design to writing and illustration is produced in Canada. The hoodies and some of the t-shirts are also made here as are Saila’s hat and amauti. The latter two items are made by craftspeople in Nunavut, Morton says. “It just wouldn’t be right to take their design and do it overseas.” It was also a way for the community to be involved. “Whenever a person from down south tries to create a product that represents Inuit culture there’s always a bit of scepticism,” says Morton, adding that she visited Nunavut and spent a significant amount of time doing

research while in the development phase. Despite any initial concerns, Morton says once people saw the final product and read the journal the support was overwhelming. “In fact, the department of education in Nunavut bought more than 200 dolls to put in every child care program in the territory because it was so culturally relevant.” It was hugely validating that Maplelea got it right, she says.

More stories to come The dolls are sold via a mail order catalogue and an e-commerce enabled website. It’s a unique approach but one that has paid off. In 2006, Morton sold the rest of her lines (then representing 80 percent of the company’s revenues) to focus solely on Maplelea. Today, headquarters feature 17,000 square feet of space, including a warehouse. The company employs 12 full-time staff and several part-time employees. During the Christmas rush, about 30 people are added to the payroll to help with the increased demand. It’s a convenient location—Morton lives

nearby with her husband, Gregory. (Son Stuart, 21, is currently travelling and daughter, Victoria, 19, is in her second year of post secondary school.) If the offices are somewhat nondescript, the creations they hold are anything but. And fans of the dolls (typically girls between the ages of six and 12) can look forward to a new Maplelea Girl on the way later this year. “Everybody wants a doll from their part of the country,” Morton explains. She notes that there are still many fascinating parts of Canada to create characters from and products to make that reflect the interests of Canadian girls. For example, 30,000 girls in Canada play ringette so the company made a ringette outfit. “I think there’s a lot of potential for growth here.”

“

Everybody wants a doll from their part of the country.”

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 55

events|things to do events

THINGS to DO

in your community

NEWMARKET HOME & LIFESTYLE SHOW MARCH 28 TO 30 MAGNA CENTRE, NEWMARKET

Newmarket Home and Lifestyle Show March 28 to 30 Magna Centre, Newmarket Come out and learn from the professionals as they share trends and tips for 2015.Travel through two arenas and meet over 150 exhibitors in home decor, outdoor living, renovations, education, communication, health and wellness and so much more. Information: newmarketchamber.ca

Aurora Home Show April 10 to 12 Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex Whatever your home or personal improvement projects, this is a “must attend” home show. Get advice from the experts on renovating, remodelling, furnishing, gardening and landscaping, as well as financial planning, nutrition, fitness and health. Information: aurorachamber.on.ca

Swing Time for Spring Time with the After Hours Big Band April 24 Aurora Cultural Centre Kick up your heels – or simply sit back and relax – while enjoying the familiar sounds from this truly BIG band. Cash bar. Information: 905-713-1818, info@auroraculturalcentre.ca, auroraculturalcentre.ca

56 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

TOWN OF AURORA 53RD ANNUAL JURIED ART SHOW AND SALE MAY 2 AND 3 AURORA TOWN HALL

Wavestage Theatre Co. presents Peter Pan April 23 to 26 Newmarket Theatre Join Peter Pan, Wendy, Michael and John in the high-flying timeless Broadway musical that will whisk you away to a place where dreams are born and no one ever grows up. Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick Tinkerbell visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and with a sprinkle of pixie dust begin a magical journey across the stars that none of them will ever forget. In the adventure of a lifetime, the travellers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, a fierce Indian tribe, a band of bungling pirate and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook. Information: wavestagetheatre.com/peter-pan

Studio Tour King April 25 and 26 King Township Organized by Arts Society King, Studio Tour King is a free community event featuring local artists in studio or at designated locations who will present one-of-a-kind pieces to the public for sale. A map and brochure will be available by very early April 2015. Information: info@artssocietyking.ca, artssocietyking.ca

CHRIS WHITELY IN CONCERT MAY 2 AURORA CULTURAL CENTRE

Outdoor Discovery and Adventure Night April 28 Newmarket Riverwalk Commons Bring a lawn chair and enjoy an evening of discovery featuring Mad Science. Inclement weather location inside Newmarket Community Centre & Lions Hall, 200 Doug Duncan Dr. Information: 905-895-5193, newmarket.ca

Great Artist Music Series presents Jue Wang, Piano May 1 Aurora Cultural Centre This Canadian debut of Chinese pianist Jue Wang, who is a graduate of the Shanghai Music Conservatory and has performed at both Wigmore Hall and Carnegie Hall, promises to be a glittering night. Wang will present works by Liszt, Strauss and Gershwin. Information: 905-713-1818, info@auroraculturalcentre.ca, auroraculturalcentre.ca

Georgina Home & Lifestyle Show May 1 to 3 Georgina Ice Palace A wealth of information and invaluable advice awaits you from over 70 exhibitors. Information: 905-476-7870, admin@georginachamber.com, georginachamber.com

ERT

WAVESTAGE THEATRE CO. PRESENTS PETER PAN APRIL 23 TO 26 NEWMARKET THEATRE

Hand in Hand Gala May 2 Copper Creek, Kleinburg A memorable evening in support of the York Region Abuse Program, featuring cocktails, dinner, dance, live entertainment and live and silent auction. Keynote speaker is former NHL-er and author Sheldon Kennedy, who made the courageous decision to charge his Major Junior Hockey league coach with sexual assault for the abuse he suffered as a teenager and is now an outspoken child advocate. Information: handinhand@yrap.ca, handinhandgala.com

YRCC presents 20 Years of Harmony: Celebrating our 20th Anniversary May 2 Trinity Anglican Church, Aurora The York Region Community Choir has been bringing its love of music to the community for 20 years. The choir is celebrating its anniversary with a concert featuring some of its favourite musical numbers, ranging from Bach to the Beatles to Broadway and everything in between. Information: roxannemccormick@rogers.com, yorkregioncommunitychoir.org

EAST GWILLIMBURY FARMERS MARKET THURSDAYS, MAY TO OCTOBER GREEN LANE COMMONS

Chris Whiteley In Concert, May 2 Aurora Cultural Centre Canada’s favourite pianist John Sheard (of CBC Radio’s Vinyl Cafe) presents a three-concert series this season, featuring three iconic Canadian performers. Chris Whiteley is a wickedly talented multi-instrumentalist, spanning roots, jazz and blues and winner of multiple Maple Blues Awards. Information: 905-713-1818, info@auroraculturalcentre.ca, auroraculturalcentre.ca

Town of Aurora 53rd Annual Juried Art Show and Sale May 2 and 3 Aurora Town Hall Organized by The Town of Aurora, in partnership with the Society of York Region Artists, this juried show and sale is a must-attend event for art enthusiasts. Professional artists from Ontario will be displaying more than 300 original pieces of work in a variety of media. Information: 905-726-4762

East Gwillimbury Farmers Market Thursdays, May 28 to Oct. 8 Green Lane Commons

Local farm vendors, bakeries, artisans and more will be offering their products Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m. Support family farmers and local artisans and connect with your community.

Newmarket Farmers Market Saturdays, May to October Riverwalk Commons Every Saturday morning, a band of farmers, vendors and volunteers create a hive of activity reminiscent of the town’s early years as a new market. A great place to buy farm fresh produce, homemade baking and hand-made crafts and to meet up with friends over breakfast or lunch. Information: newmarketfarmersmarket.com

Aurora Farmers Market & Artisan Fair Saturdays, May 2 to Oct. 24 49 Wells St. The local market offers a wide selection of produce from local farmers, delicious food from vendors and beautiful creations by talented artisans. Special event days include music, a market bag raffle and free children’s crafts. Information: theaurorafarmersmarket.com

Moonlight Movies Friday, May 29 Newmarket Riverwalk Commons Bring a chair or blanket to enjoy a movie under the stars on a huge inflatable screen. Free. Movie to be announced. Inclement weather location inside Newmarket Community Centre & Lions Hall. Information: 905-895-5193, newmarket.ca

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 57

beauty spot SORRY WINTER, WE’RE OVER YOU. IT’S TIME TO PLANT THE SEED FOR SPRING BEAUTY AND A FRESH PALETTE OF BOLD COLOURS AND SOFT SCENTS FROM OUR FAVOURITE BRANDS. LET THE SEASON AWAKEN YOU FROM YOUR COLD SLUMBER WITH THE LATEST MAKE-UP TRENDS AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS IN FULL BLOOM FOR NAILS, LIPS, EYES, SKIN AND MORE. WE DIG IT.

A S P R I N G AWA K E N I N G BY DANIELA DISTEFANO

OURS by Cheryl Hickey Head to Toe Wash $12 | Rexall The formula is perfectly balance to gently cleanse, moisturize and nourish the entire family from head to toe with natural and organic ingredients.

58 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

Benefit Posiebalm Hydrating Tinted Lip Balm $22 | Sephora Grab this poppy pink tinted balm for a sheer kiss of colour and mango butter conditioner to nourish your pout.

Vichy LiftActiv Supreme $50 | drugstores This new anti-aging cream promises to give your skin that smooth and radiant glow over the course of the day while combating the dull and tired complexion that comes with the passing hours.

Hydro Gel Mask Sheets $2.50 each | thefaceshop.ca The word is out on the power of Korean mask sheets and these ones are targeted to nourish skin with B, C and E vitamins for super-charged soothing, brightening and strengthening.

Sonia Kashuk White Etheriana Eau De Toilette $20 | Target Introduce White Etheriana into your fragrance collection — it’s a fresh, light scent with notes of lemon, acai, bamboo and dewy violet.

Poppy Pink Shimmer Cube $22 | The Body Shop For a fresh spring look, swipe on this vibrant, crease-resistant palette of mix and match shades.

CND VinyLux Weekly Polish in Thistle Thicket $12 | Trade Secrets CND’s new Flora and Fauna colour collection gives you DIY spring manicures that will stay chip-free for about seven days.

Joe Fresh Eyeshadow in Lilac $8 | Loblaw stores One of our favourite spring shades—a fresh lilac hue to brighten up our everyday make-up routine.

Elizabeth Arden Sunkissed Pearls Bronzer & Highlighter $48 | Hudson’s Bay After months of overcast skies, everyone can benefit from a flush of colour to add a subtle, I’ve-been-wintering-down-south glow to your sunlight-starved skin.

GOSH Forever Lip Shine in Funky Friday $15 | Shoppers Drug Mart When there’s no time for a full make-up application, add some quick colour and shine to lips on the go with this stick.

Sonia Kashuk Make-up Organizers $10 | Target Tote your beauty essentials along in vibrant style this spring with one of these fun new prints and patterns.

Royal Apothic Scrubbies Sugar Lip Scrub in Macaroon $12 | Murale Flaky winter skin might stick around for longer than you bargained for, especially on lips, so a natural sugar scrub will come in handy to before you apply the season’s new bold lipstick shades.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 59

body + mind

Lessons from the red carpet by Jennifer Ettinger

have the fortunate pleasure of wearing multiple hats as a fitness and lifestyle expert. Two years ago, I crossed into the world of social media in way I never imagined would change my life. I began getting involved in social media communities and sending in video and comments to the Ricki Lake show. My approach may have been awkward and elementary, but I laughed my way through it! This led me to being asked to serve as a lifestyle and fitness expert for a major Hollywood entertainment show. After the show aired, I was asked to join an exclusive group known as the “Twitteraritti”, whose mandate is to merge social media and online content with traditional television (#SocialTV). This role has taken me to movie premieres and awards shows including the Grammys, Emmys, Billboards, BAFTAS and Golden Globes supporting ET NOW, Insider and Access Hollywood. And, for the past two years, I have been invited to contribute to Vanity Fair Social Club, the inner-sanctum of Vanity Fair’s creative services troupe. For one week leading up to the Academy Awards, Vanity Fair hosts speaker panels and events. An invitation to the Vanity Fair Oscar party is one as the most coveted party invitations worldwide. My job is to report tweet, post and film the goings on. During the week, I got the call...THE CALL! I was asked to work the red carpet! On the red carpet, there is no room for errors. You must be on your toes and on your toes you are—you feet HURT afterwards! It was a thrilling time to amp up my skill set and release my fears! My assignment was the private party for the cast and crew of Boyhood.

Things move fast on the red carpet, but Jennifer Ettinger was able to snap a few photographs of Boyhood stars Ellar Coltrane and Patricia Arquette. 60 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

Here are my life lessons from the carpet: Go with the flow. I was without my luggage for two days and almost declined the opportunity to work this event, allowing my ego and pride in the way. I learned a valuable lesson to just “let go” and to think things would work out. I ran into a discount store and bought a $14.99 dress in four minutes flat! Remember the reality behind the glamour. Glamour? For the talent perhaps, but I was standing on a label for hours, not able to move or go to the bathroom. The next day I couldn’t move my toes! I am not complaining, but just offering a reminder that in many situations what is presented to us does not always reflect the behind the scenes reality. Be adaptable. I prepared questions I was very proud of—which went out the window. We were placed at the end of the carpet, which means you have very little time until the cast needs to enter the restaurant. Time to think fast. I worked with my boss and we created the question: What is your style persona in a hashtag (#)? It got a lot a of laughs, which is good, for I was almost guaranteed no one else asked that question. When the lovely Patricia Arquette arrived, I was the last one to speak with her before leaving the carpet. I asked her the question and she laughed and smiled. “My style persona is #overalls; seriously that is what I wear.” That, my friends, sum up the carpet experience. Be yourself, don’t take yourself too seriously and be ready to deal with whatever comes your way with grace and humour!

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travel|Brazil

Brazil 62 | GoodLife â&#x20AC;˘ March - April 2015

MORE THAN JUST BEACHES STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BART CARD

MANY PEOPLE DON’T ENJOY VISITING THE SAME DESTINATION MORE THAN ONCE. OTHERS ENJOY GOING TO THE SAME FAMILIAR SPOT YEAR AFTER YEAR. I WOULD SAY THAT I FALL SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN THOSE TWO CATEGORIES.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 63

travel|Brazil

Horse and buggy on Paraty’s cobbled streets.

enjoy revisiting past destinations in order to gauge how the world and the people in it have changed. I first visited the city of Rio de Janeiro over 20 years ago and was looking forward to going back last year shortly after the FIFA World Cup. The Rio I remember had amazing beaches, fabulous weather and food that was out of this world. The shopping and nightlife were attractions in and of themselves. I was excited to see what about this amazing city had changed and what had stayed the same. Rio is the capital city of the State of Rio de Janeiro and the second largest city in Brazil. Having once been the capital of the country, Rio is now one of the most populated and popular tourist destinations in the world. Located in the southeast of the country, Rio is surrounded by beautiful beaches on one side and pristine forests on the other. The tropical climate makes Rio ideal to visit at any time of the year. I arrived in Rio and spent the first couple of nights at the beautiful Quinta Azul Boutique Pousada—the perfect place to stay after a long flight. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful and the hotel is quaint and welcoming. From the Quinto Azul, I moved on to the Rio Orthon Palace. Located approximately 15 metres from the beach, this hotel has phenomenal

64 | GoodLife • March - April 2015

service, air conditioning (trust me you will need it when temperatures are over 38 Celsius) and a great buffet breakfast with everything you could possibly want to keep you going. Not one for wasting time, I spent my first few days in Rio enjoying the nightlife, sightseeing and, my personal favourite, exploring the flea markets. For lunch, we went to Confeitaria Colombo, an incredible restaurant that dates back to 1894. This historic restaurant boasts beautiful rosewood furniture, Italian marble countertops and Belgian mirrors. During its long history, many an artist, politician and royal has graced its tables. If you ever find yourself in Rio, I highly recommend having a cup of coffee and pastry at the Confeitaria Colombo; you won’t be disappointed.

Rio offers an abundance of spectacular sights including beaches, mountains and rainforests. In addition to its natural attractions, Rio is also home to one of the most recognizable statues in the world. Christ the Redeemer was inaugurated in 1931 and is now one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This awe-inspiring statue was created from a soapstone and cement and the site provides spectacular panoramic views of the city below. Touring the cities and countryside and seeing the wonderful sights is only one small part of the travelling experience. An integral part to a successful trip is the people you meet along the way. Over the years I have been fortunate enough to have met some fantastic people while travelling the world. One such person was our driver in Rio. Sonia was a master at her job. She spoke six languages and was immensely knowledgeable about all of the sights she took us to. Not only was she an amazing tour guide and driver, but she was a perfect representation of what I’ve come to love about the people in Brazil—friendly, welcoming and warm. After exploring Rio, we were off to the preserved Portuguese colonial town of Paraty, with Sonia behind the wheel. Renowned for its beautiful coastal mountains and historic town,

Paraty has become a popular tourist destination. While in Paraty we stayed at a small boutique hotel called Casa Turquesa. With only nine rooms, Casa Turquesa boasts picturesque charm and modern comforts—including a breakfast featuring baked goods straight from the oven. Located close to the bay, the hotel is a short trip from anything you wish to see or do in Paraty. The town has cobbled streets and a multitude of restaurants to choose from. I also had the opportunity to see the surrounding area by Jeep and was taken into the mountains to see magnificent waterfalls. If given the choice, I would have opted to stay on in Paraty for a few more days. We finished off our trip with a couple of days on the beautiful island of Ilha Grande. Now known for its unspoiled beaches and rugged tropical beauty, Ilha Grand was at one time was closed to tourists or settlement because of its history as a leper colony and a high-security prison. The prison was closed in 1994 and it wasn’t long before tourism was booming. I quickly discovered the restaurants along the »

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travel|Brazil beach and enjoyed fresh barbecued fish, while sipping an ice cold beer and watching the ocean—you can’t get anything better. While on the island, I stayed at the beautiful Sagu Mini Resort. Surrounded by rainforests and waterfront, the Sagu Mini offers panoramic views of the bay as well as air-conditioned rooms and beautiful furnishings—the ideal way to spend the last few days in paradise. The Rio I once knew is as bustling and beautiful as ever. With an eclectic charm and unending list of things to do, Rio makes the perfect destination for anyone hoping for adventure or just a trip to explore a new city. If you really want to make the most of your stay in Brazil, I would highly recommend visiting the countryside and islands as well. My trip to Brazil was hosted by Adventure Life, who I have also travelled with to Antarctica—and once again the company delivered a fabulous and unique trip.

“

If you really want to make the most of your stay in Brazil, I would highly recommend visiting the countryside and islands.”

10thAnnual

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