York Life Markham May/June 2017

York Life MARKHAM | RICHMOND HILL | STOUFFVILLE | THORNHILL

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contents Cover photo: Jim Craigmyle

m ay / j u n e 2 0 1 7

in every issue 9

Living well News, tips and fun facts

66 like a local Millennium Bandstand,

Unionville

hEALTH 15 eye cues

Protect your peepers with these

visionary tips

17 foot loose Get your toes into tip-top shape

HOME 22 the real dirt on eco-gardening Kick up the green factor in your

garden this year

26 The personal touch With their own floor plan and

Travel 46 Savouring Ste. Anne’s

A short drive from home brings

finishes, this couple created their dream home

31 fresh view The right window treatment

49 Travel smarts Navigating connecting flights

brightens your room and your life

50 playful palermo This chic Buenos Aires district

34 a basement for the boys A damp, unusable space

you to a place where you can really change gears

becomes a hangout haven

should definitely be on your travel short list

Food & drink

FEATURES

37 Fresh Outlook

Your shopping guide to

54 community boosters

Three York Region residents who

farmers’ markets

39 In the Kitchen with...

Cornerhouse on Main,

Stouffville

42 decadent devilled eggs

Tasty twists on the classic

recipe

support their communities and their country

58 cultural mosaic Markham artists share their true

patriot love

63 gifts for guys Our roundup of amazing must

haves for the men in your life

4 | York Life May June 2017

Happy Canada 150!

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editor’s note

York Life Publisher Dana Robbins Regional General Manager Shaun Sauve Editor Jacqueline Kovacs

Let’s Celebrate Canada!

It’s Canada’s 150th birthday and we here at York Life couldn’t be prouder! We’re showing that pride, starting with our beautiful celebratory cover. Learn more about the baker/artist behind that show-stopping cake below.

Other artists are equally happy to share their talents. On page 58, find out how a group of Markham artists did their own visual takes on Canada and brought those efforts together for one piece of art that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.

Of course, you don’t have to be an artist to contribute to your community. That’s why we are celebrating three York Region residents who have made giving back a part of their lives. Read about these remarkable people starting on page 54.

With so much excitement around our country’s 150th year, it seems a shame to try to squeeze it all into one day. Thanks to the people at the York Region Arts Council, you don’t have to. The YRAC is holding a special Festival Trail from June 3 through to 2018, with festivals ranging from art and music to beer and ribs, all over the region. Learn more at yorkscene.com/festival-trail.

And no issue would be complete without a peek inside some of the area’s gorgeous homes. Turn to page 26 to find out how one couple took undeveloped land and turned it into a jaw-dropping dream home.

Finally, however you plan to spend July 1 this year, we at York Life wish you a very happy Canada Day! Jacqueline Kovacs P.S. Look for this symbol coverage!

to find our special

About our cover Like the look of that cake on the cover? It’s the gorgeous work of Newmarket’s Gabby Middleton, 19, an up-and-comer in the delicious world of baking (check her work on facebook by searching Gabby’s Bakery Designs). Baking has always come naturally to Middleton. “Since I could stand on a chair in my mom’s kitchen, I’ve loved baking,” she says. Fittingly, she’s now studying pastry management at Humber College. Middleton’s passion, ambition and talent made her the clear choice for our cover chef. “When given the opportunity to create the 150th Canada cake, I was honoured,” she says. “This is an achievement that I’m proud of.”

6 | York Life May June 2017

copy editor Deanna Dority Contributors Liz Bruckner, Jim Craigmyle, Naomi Hiltz, Sue Kanhai, Joann MacDonald, Leslee Mason, Julie Miguel, Rachel Naud, Andrea Karr,Tracy Smith, Doug Wallace Advertising Director Amanda Smug 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, Jennifer Dallman 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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living well Show Your Pride!

It’s our big 150th birthday, so why not wear your true patriot love on your sleeve — or your neck, or your back, or…well, you get the idea.

Here are four very different, very Canadian items we love.

Canadian Penny Leaf Necklace: Pick your penny’s year based on your own special day and wear a piece of dual history. $67, citrussilver.com

“Happiness Is…Canada” T-shirt: Select yours from a variety of colours and logos from a company founded by 95-year-old Second World War vet Gordon Carton. $39, happinessisinc.ca

Dog Bandana: Why should humans have all the fun?

Let Fido show his/her Canada Day pride with this handmade cotton scarf from PuppyRiot. $13, puppyriot.ca

Enamel Pins: Go for the Canada flag, “True North Strong and Free,” the moose — or all three! Just a few of the fun creations

by Toronto’s Carolyn Draws. $10 each, carolyndraws.com

York Life May June 2017 | 9

living well | Health

Shake Off Cravings

Boost your smoothie with whey

The type of protein you eat at breakfast can impact weight loss, according to a study from Tel Aviv University. It found that whey, which is a by-product of cheese production and found in many dairy products, was more effective at controlling blood sugar than other sources of protein such as eggs, soy or tuna. In an article in the Independent, Dr. Daniela Jakubowicz, professor of medicine at Tel Aviv university, said that the whey protein diet significantly suppresses the hunger hormone ghrelin. So, power up that morning smoothie to feel fuller longer. — Rachel Naud

Camping is a

D r e am

Want to catch some extra zzzs? Try sleeping outdoors.

A report from the University of Colorado Boulder found that a short weekend trip to the woods is enough to reset our circadian clocks. The increased exposure to natural sunlight in the great outdoors increases melatonin levels, the hormone associated with sleep and wake cycles.

— R.N.

Brain Boost For a healthy, strong body, you have to challenge yourself. And it seems the same applies to the brain, according to a study published in JAMA Neurology. The findings indicate that adults aged 70 and older who engaged in mentally stimulating activities had a decreased risk of developing mild cognitive impairment, the middle stage between a healthy brain and dementia. How do you challenge your brain? It’s as easy as learning a new activity or craft, and by staying socially active and involved in your community. The trick is finding something that interests, engages and challenges your mind. — R.N.

Take a BITE out of aging You may associate collagen with fighting wrinkles, but did you know this body-produced protein is also found in hair, nails, bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons? As we age, though, our natural production of this protein slows and collagen fibres become prone to breakage, resulting in wrinkles, aching joints, and ligament and tendon injuries. But now there’s a tasty way to fight back. NeoCell Beauty Bursts not only deliver collagen, but also moisturizing hyaluronic acid and reinforcing vitamin C, all in a chocolate-mint- or fruitpunch-flavoured chew. $19.99, NeoCell.com.

10 | York Life May June 2017

living well | Home

Pioneer Style at Your Table Fans of the Food Network Canada have watched Ree Drummond of The Pioneer Woman serve up hearty comfort creations for hungry ranchers. Now, fans can enjoy home-cooked meals on their own piece of pioneer cooking with Drummond’s signature dishes line offered at Walmart Canada. From a vintage dinner set to a flea market rolling pin, The Pioneer Woman collection includes 200 items, ranging from $5 for single pieces to $100 for a 10-piece cooking set. walmart.ca — Rachel Naud

The Pioneer Woman Vintage Bloom 12-Piece Dinnerware, $79.94

Sit Pretty

$13,017

The average amount Canadians planned to spend on home renos in 2016. Landscaping, including decks and patios, was a focus for 42 per cent of us looking to soak up as much summer as possible.

Want to add a pop of colour and sophistication to your outdoor living space? This Charivari bench from Fermob (fermob.com) is a great way to refine any space with its sleek urban design. Designed by Juliette Liberman for her final graduation piece from École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, the bench was originally made from wood. The new metal incarnation maintains Liberman’s goal of a light appearance with a feeling of constant motion.

The shade is close to Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Greenery, which would mesh well with the earthy tones of summer. $7,593.05, yliving.com — R.N.

Day Spa Delivery For most of us, enjoying a sauna happens away from home, at a spa or health club. But now thanks to Gregory Wolfson, owner of Casa de Sauna, you can have a sauna experience delivered right to your home.

“I was exposed to sauna culture all my life,” says Latvia-born Wolfson, who has lived in Canada for 25 years. “It’s huge in western and northern Europe.” Benefits of quality sauna time include relaxation, improved circulation and relief for aching joints.

Whether you want to heat up a fabulous backyard party or craft a romantic setting for two, this mobile sauna company delivers, taking care of everything from setting up and firewood accessories to towels, hats and even an outdoor shower. Saunas seat eight people and rent for $199 per day, with multiple-day packages available. casadesauna.com — R.N.

York Life May June 2017 | 11

living well | Food & Drink

Try It! RHUBARB

Its co-starring role with strawberries in the muchloved pie aside, there are myriad reasons to love this stalky beauty. Case in point: One cup of rhubarb a day can significantly lower your risk of developing heart-related diseases and dementia, minimize stress, lower blood pressure and slow cartilage deterioration. The best way to boost your intake? Beyond eating it raw (dipped in honey or sugar, of course!) and including it in traditional favourites like strawberry-rhubarb crumble, pies and cakes, try this: Cut stalks into small pieces and bake at 450°F for 10 minutes before adding to a greens-and-goat-cheese salad, or make a bowl of chilled rhubarb soup for a sweet-and-sour treat! — Liz Bruckner

Drink in SPRING Nothing says warmer days are here quite like sipping that first cold drink on your patio, balcony or porch. Toast the season with a refreshing frozen lemonade with cocnut rum!

Here’s how: • Place 4-6 cups of ice into a blender.

• Add one 6-ounce can of frozen, concentrated lemonade.

• Add ½ cup of coconut rum.

• Blend until the drink has a slushy consistency, garnish as you wish and enjoy!

Big Dipper!

Next time you’re craving a cool treat, step up your dessert game at Chocolats Favoris. New to Aurora and the GTA, this truly distinctive Quebec-based chocolate shop and creamery features multiple soft-serve ice cream flavours, a selection of sorbets and gelatos, and 12 signature artisanal liquid chocolate options.

“Every flavour is carefully designed by master chocolatiers and is handmade in La Fabrique Chocolats Favoris in Quebec City, with a variety of hand painted options available during Valentine’s Day, Easter and Christmas,” says Etienne Dancosse, marketing consultant for Chocolats Favoris.

Among the decadent dipping flavours you can choose from: salted caramel, hazelnut dark chocolate, cookies and cream, and dulce de leche. Prefer to skip the frozen delights? The shop also offers a host of hot chocolate variations, fondue, hard chocolates and more.

12 | York Life May June 2017

Raise a Chef Looking to nip picky eating in the bud?

Encourage your little chefs to get their hands sticky in the kitchen. Studies show involving kids in meal prep and cooking makes them more likely to try new foods, and it also helps foster smart nutritional decision-making. Plus, it’s a ton of fun!

To get started, check out Petits Chefs Academy in Maple. It offers hands-on, educational cooking and baking programs for kids ages three and up, as well as summer and PA day camps, afterschool and birthday party programs.

See petitschefsacademy.com. — L.B.

living well | Travel

Stopover: The Azores On your way to Europe this summer? Consider a pit stop halfway there. The nine islands that make up the archipelago of the Azores used to be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Lush and green, despite being made up of 1,766 volcanoes, this autonomous region within the Portuguese state has made great gains since the 1970s, when it was still a relatively poor fishing outpost.

Island life teems with opportunities for visitors to sail, dive, deep-sea fish and explore more than 120 geotourism sights — everything from volcanic caves and ravines to hot springs.

The whale-watching is phenomenal, as the Azores is one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries. The best time to go is August and September, when the rain is down and both the air and ocean temperatures are high. Check out flights to Ponta Delgada via SATA airlines at sata.pt.

— Doug Wallace

Flight Plan For the best value, book flights these many days in advance: • 57 - Domestic • 77 - Caribbean • 90 - Americas • 140 - Europe • 160 - Asia

Gadget: The HumanCharger Travellers, athletes, business people and regular folk alike can now “bio-hack” their way out of jet lag. The world’s first bright-light headset sends UV-free white light to receptors in your brain, helping you maintain the natural rhythm of your body clock. Cuts jet lag in half.

About $300, amazon.ca — D.W.

Turndown: The Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana Talk of Cuba continues to swirl among travel industry insiders, much of it about how prominently the U.S. will feature in the future of the island’s tourism. Wonderful, then, to hear about more solid plans: the forthcoming opening of a Kempinski hotel this summer in the UNESCO-designated Manzana de Gómez building in the heart of Old Havana. Built in 1910, the heritage property was Cuba’s first European-style shopping arcade.

The 246 rooms and suites are kitted out with a refreshing modern-traditional design. Throw in lavish original architectural flourishes and vaulted ceilings, and you’ve practically got a movie set. Three restaurants, a rooftop terrace and swimming pool with sweeping views of Old Town, and a spa by Switzerland’s Resense luxe up the luxury even more. The cigar lounge is a no-brainer. Visit kempinski.com/en/havana/gran-hotel-kempinski-la-habana.

— D.W.

York Life May June 2017 | 13

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Find this and our other magazine editions online at

health

Eye Cues Protect your peepers with these visionary tips

By Liz Bruckner

Even if you aren’t squinting at small print or straining to see road signs, your eyes aren’t necessarily in the clear. From myopia and hyperopia to amblyopia and astigmatism, vision issues are more common than sunglasses on A-listers. To keep your peepers in peak condition, here’s expert advice to keep in your sight.

York Life May June 2017 | 15

health | Vision How often should you have an eye exam?

According to Dr. Kirsten North, past president of the Canadian Association of Optometrists, starting around age 40, a routine and comprehensive eye exam becomes paramount.

Until then, the lenses in your eyes tend to be clear and flexible, with strong connecting fibres, she says. Age causes those lenses to weaken, and the fibres don’t work as effectively. “Not only will a dilated-eye exam help determine the state of your vision, during the exam, a doctor will test the pressure inside your eyes and ensure that the optic nerves are intact,” North says. “A diagnosis of any existing vision problems and eye diseases can also be made at this point, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma will be tested for, and preventive steps can be made to care for detected issues, if necessary.”

How often do you need an eye exam? Every two to three years for healthy adults under 40, and every two years for those between 40 and 60. Anyone over 60 should have an annual exam. While diabetics and people with high blood pressure should log more frequent visits (both conditions can cause significant vision problems), North adds, you shouldn’t wait for issues to arise to book an appointment. “The biggest reason to undergo regular checkups is because vision and eye health aren’t always reliant on symptoms,” she says. “Many people assume they’ll see or feel something off before coming in, which may not happen.” Anyone experiencing eye pain, double vision, light flashes, irritation, black spots or eye fatigue should see an optometrist or opthamologist right away.

Eye drops: Are they safe?

By and large, yes, North says. “The main drops I suggest exercising caution with are the get-the-red-out types, simply because overuse is common. North explains that the drops constrict the blood flow in the outer vessels of the eyes, temporarily minimizing redness. When that wears off, the vessels “open wider than before, prompting users to apply more drops to minimize redness, creating a vicious cycle.” Her advice: Wean yourself off the drops and live with the red hue for a few weeks in order for the blood vessels to reset. She also advises drinking more water, eating a healthy diet and seeking an optometrist if problems with redness persist.

Common vision terms Myopia: Otherwise known as nearsightedness, this condition makes distance vision blurry. While it’s rare to be born with myopia, it can develop in childhood. Symptoms include blurry vision, headaches, frequent squinting, double vision and trouble seeing at night.

Hyperopia: Also called far-sightedness, this vision issue makes it hard for people to see things nearby.

This genetic condition, commonly diagnosed in childhood, can cause blurry vision, squinting, eyestrain and itchy or burning eyes.

Astigmatism: One of the most common vision issues, this condition minimizes the eyes’ ability to focus. Symptoms include blurriness, distorted vision, eyestrain, headaches and squinting.

Amblyopia: Also referred to as lazy eye, this vision developmental disorder occurs in infancy and early childhood, causing blurriness and reduced vision. Although it’s common for those affected to experience eye misalignment, amblyopia can be present without that physical sign, Dr. Kirsten North says. Symptoms include blurred vision, one or both turning eyes, squinting and double vision.

20/20: An indicator of normal vision, this term means someone is able to see clearly at 20 feet what should typically be visible at that distance. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t denote perfect vision, but it does indicate the sharpness or clarity of a person’s vision at a distance.

Shade Smart Fashionable though they are, wearing sunglasses also does much to protect eyes from damaging UV rays. Some of the major vision ailments they help protect against include cataracts, thickening of the eye tissue, skin cancer around the eyes, and “photokeratitis,” a condition in which the cornea itself becomes sunburned. “Everyone should be wearing sunglasses, even in winter and on days that aren’t very bright,” Dr. Kirsten North says.

Not sure which kind is best? Go as chic as you like — just make sure your pair has a UV sticker. “Any sunglasses bought in Canada with a label stating they protect against UVB and UVA rays will ensure your eyes have more than enough protection from the sun,” North says.

The Stella, seen here in champagne, is playfully on trend with its plastic look, $175.

Seen here in tortoise, the Shaun captures the season's interest in geometric shapes, $175.

Colourful lenses, like the Madison in pearl/tortoise, are ideal for those who shun dark glasses, $85

The avant-garde look of the Bennet style (shown here in Medina) is oh-so sci-fi, $85.

(All Komono-brand sunglasses here are available at Spareparts, sparepartslife.com.)

16 | York Life May June 2017

health | Beauty Spot

Photo courtesy of CND

Foot Loose Get your toes into tip-top shape for sunshine-filled days and sultry summer nights

Summer is coming, so it’s time your feet come out of hibernation and go on full display. Think that means your salon bill has to skyrocket? While a professional pedicure is a luxurious treat, you can also achieve wonderful results at home, thanks to this stepby-step guide to the perfect pedicure courtesy of editorial nail artist Nargis Khan. Check out her handiwork on Instagram, @nailsfromnars.

By Andrea Karr"

York Life May June 2017 | 17

health | Beauty Spot Super Soaker First things first: Take a shower or soak your feet in warm water for up to 10 minutes. This will soften the skin to make pushing cuticles back and filing dry patches much easier. “Just don’t soak your feet for too long, because you don’t want them to be so flooded with water that you can’t tell the difference between dead and live skin,” Khan says.

Clip-N-File Clip your nails straight across.

Don’t cut them too short; otherwise, you might encourage a nail to grow into the skin — known

as an ingrown nail — rather than out and over. Also refrain from letting your nails grow beyond the end of your toe, which can cause irritation when wearing shoes. No matter the length of your toenails, try to avoid narrow, tight footwear, which can put unwanted pressure on your feet. Next, file your nails to smooth and shape them as necessary.

the big toe,” Khan says. “Clean outwards so you’re getting out all the gunk and dead skin instead of shoving it in, which could lead to an ingrown nail.”

If you’ve cleaned out under your nails and you still have a bad ingrown toenail, put a tiny bit of cotton under the corner of the nail to relieve the pressure and help the nail grow out.

Push Comes to Shove Use an orange wood stick or cuticle pusher to push back overgrown cuticles and clean underneath the edge of each nail, “especially around the corners of

Buff Stuff Give your nails a good buff to create a rough surface to which the polish can adhere. Also buff the cuticles and skin around the nails so that you have to trim as little

Tool Kit Everything you need to get your tootsies ready for public viewing

Amopé Pedi Perfect Electronic Foot File With Diamond Crystals, $45, walmart.ca

Revlon Gold Series Titanium Coated Ingrown Away Toenail Set, $21.50, revlon.ca

Lovefresh Key Lime Coconut Sugar Scrub, $30, lovefresh.com

Sephora Collection Instant Nail Polish Remover Wipes, $10 for 20 wipes, sephora.ca L’Occitane Shea Butter Foot Cream, $32, loccitane.ca 18 | York Life May June 2017

Tenoverten The Rose Oil, $34, thenaturalcurator.com

Revlon Multicare Base + Top Coat, $7.50, revlon.ca

skin as possible with cuticle nippers. “The rule is to nip anything that’s white and wavy or sticking up,” Khan says. “Make sure you don’t touch live tissue.”

Filing System Once you’re done grooming your nails and cuticles, file the bottoms of your feet — the heels in particular. Use a rougher grain first to remove excess dry skin, then file with a finer grain to smooth everything out. “Don’t over-file,” Khan says, “because you could worsen cracks or cause bleeding.”

Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Rub away dead skin and rough surfaces with a sugar scrub, which will also help lotion to absorb more easily into the skin.

Don’t forget to rub between your toes, around your nails and over your heels. Extra points if the scrub smells good enough to eat!

Balm Dot Com The one area that most people forget to moisturize is their feet — but you can avoid cracked, dry heels if you consistently apply a rich balm or body butter. If you need a quick fix before donning open-toe shoes, rub cuticle oil into your heels and nails and they’ll look better in a snap.

Squeaky Clean Before you even consider applying base coat, rub each nail with a cotton pad or ball soaked in nail polish remover. This step will remove lotion and oils from your nails, both of which would make your nails slick and compromise the longevity of your pedicure.

Waiting Game Let your pedi dry for a good hour, especially if you’re going to put shoes on. If you must go out when the polish isn’t 100 per cent dry, apply cuticle oil to each nail and wrap your toes in cling wrap to prevent smudging and denting.

Paint Job After placing separators between your toes, apply a base coat to protect the nails from yellowing,

Colour Ways

Coral red.

Try OPI Infinite Shine in Living on the Bula-vard!, $17, chatters.ca

and then brush on two coats of colour and one layer of top coat to seal in your hard work.

For a better-looking result, make sure that you hover your brush rather than dragging it over each nail. Also important: Use an appropriate amount of polish for the size of the nail — a baby toe, doesn’t need much! Toss any goopy or stringy polish.

Cobalt blue.

Try Sally Hansen Color Therapy in Ja-Cozy, $12, sallyhansen.com

Whether you prefer a classic coral, vibrant green or subtle nude, the hottest summer polishes offer something for everyone

Kelly green.

Try Essie Nail Polish in On the Roadie, $10, essie.ca

Tan nude.

Try L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail Polish in Classic Check, $7.50, amazon.ca

Emerald green.

Try CND Rhythm & Heat Collection Vinylux Weekly Polish in Palm Deco, $12.50, cnd.com/find-salon

York Life May June 2017 | 19

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home

Mown Over

When warmer days finally arrive, and you want nothing more than to be out enjoying them, don’t you wish your lawn could just cut itself? Newsflash: It can. Meet the Automower, the first robotic lawn mower, capable of working around the clock, day in and day out.

Think of it as a Roomba for lawns. Launched by Husqvarna in 1995, the quiet, battery-operated Automower continuously cuts grass within boundaries you decide, and can handle small, simple lawns or large, complex properties — with no harmful exhaust emissions.

There’s even an app so you can track the Automower wherever you are. And when its battery is low, it automatically returns to its charging station. Ranging from 18 to 25 pounds, the Automower comes in two sizes: the 315, for up to 1/3 acre, and the 450X, for up to 1¼ acres. Pricing starts at $2,199.99. For more information, go to husqvarna.ca.

York Life May June 2017 | 21

The

home | Garden

Real Dirt on

Eco-Gardening Kick up the green factor in your garden this year with our roundup of earth-friendly tips and tricks

By Andrew Hind

Flawless flowerbeds without a hint of pest damage, and lawns of pristine green even at the height of summer used to be a source of immense pride for gardeners. Today, however, many of the best and most knowledgeable gardeners know this picture-perfect image is actually not the ideal, because it can only be accomplished through practices that are at odds with the health of the planet — including heavy watering, and using chemical pesticides and herbicides.

22 | York Life May June 2017

Instead, many gardeners are now willingly accepting the occasional blemish in their yards because it means they are being good custodians of the environment.

Eco-friendly, or green, gardening is about more than having a chemical-free plot. It’s about creating your own healthy ecosystem where everything is intertwined, and where ultimately the garden requires less maintenance and less expense in upkeep.

York Life May June 2017 | 23

home | Garden Pick your plants Knowing and accepting what will work in your garden’s conditions is half the battle. Delicate, exotic plants that require special pampering shouldn’t make it past your garden gate, at least not in any large number.

“People typically plant by colour, but I think they should plant by drinking habit,” says Debra Lidstone, landscape designer and installer at Barrie Botanix. “Grouping droughttolerant plants together and thirsty plants together elsewhere makes better use of water and leads to better results. People put far too much thought into colour and less thought into the habits and needs of a plant.”

Gabrielle Polman, indoor live goods supervisor for Bradford Greenhouses in Barrie, agrees. “It’s important to select plants for your hardiness zone, as well as for the sun and soil conditions. Otherwise, you’re liable to end up with weak plants, which are prone to disease

The pros recommend native plants, cultivars bred for hardiness, as well as droughttolerant plants such as sedum, and hens and chicks (left).

and pests,” she explains. “Spacing is important as well. A garden that is too crowded fosters disease, so you’re just asking for trouble.”

Instead, Polman recommends native plants, as they are adapted to the region, or cultivars specifically bred for hardiness. She also points to drought-tolerant plants, such as hens and chicks, sedum and some grasses, which require little maintenance.

Control your pests Those who garden will have their share of clashes with critters. It’s inevitable: a garden will be home to everything from slugs to insects to rodents. But don’t race out for that pesticide spray, Lidstone cautions.

“I think people need to adjust their mindset when it comes to pests. We should be looking for diversity, not a surgical-type garden, and pests are a part of a balanced garden ecosystem. Keep in mind that bad insects are food for the insects we think of as good insects,” she says. Lidstone reminds us that it’s okay for there to be holes or spots on leaves, and asks us to consider: “We love butterflies and plant flowers that attract them, and yet people don’t stop to think that butterflies begin as caterpillars that eat leaves. Not every bad bug needs to be removed; we need to establish an acceptable threshold and maintain a healthy balance.”

Encourage Wildlife A balanced garden ecosystem reduces the amount of work you have to do and increases your success, so it’s a good idea to encourage insects, birds and other wildlife. Among the best to encourage are pollinators, such as butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. Many flowers, flowering shrubs and fruit trees require help to bloom.

“Butterflies, bees and hummingbirds prefer simple, open blooms that allow easy access to nectar, and prefer old-fashioned varieties over modern hybrids (breeding hybrids creates gorgeous flowers, but usually less nectar). Indigenous varieties are ideal, as insects and plants have evolved together,” explains Newmarket’s Murray Ogilvie, who has planted a pollinator

24 | York Life May June 2017

garden and rears hundreds of the increasingly rare monarch butterfly each year. “Provide a selection of both annual and perennial plants — ideally those with long bloom periods — for blooms from spring to fall, so that your garden provides nectar and pollen sources throughout the season.” Ogilvie also recommends including a source of water so butterflies can hydrate.

Many people shudder at the idea of bats flittering about overhead, but they are extremely beneficial and gardeners are encouraged to include bat boxes in their yards to provide habitat

for these increasingly threatened mammals.

According to Christina Davies, wildlife research scientist, species at risk, for Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, “Bats will eat several times their own weight in insects every single night. It’s estimated that pesticide use by the agricultural industry is halved thanks to bats, so you can imagine the benefit they have in one’s yard. They also make the yard more comfortable at night by reducing the number of mosquitoes.” She also advises that bats “are also completely harmless, myths aside.”

In many cases, troublesome insects can be hand-plucked, washed away with water or deterred by companion planting. Companion planting is an age-old practice in which a certain plant is grown near another to ward off an offending insect. Zinnias, for example, are often planted near cauliflower, because they attract ladybugs that help protect the vegetable from pests. Entire books have been written on the subject, and it truly does work.

Create healthy soil Healthy soil is the foundation upon which a successful garden rests. “Always amend your soil when planting,” Polman says. “Manure and compost are great, because they assist in water and nutrient retention, and add nutrients to the soil. Sandy soil is difficult to grow in, as it won’t retain moisture or nutrients, so you’ll need to add triple mix.”

Adding organic material is incredibly beneficial. That’s why many gardeners have a compost bin in their yard to transform kitchen and yard waste into nutrient-rich material.

Bonus: You divert material from landfills while benefiting your garden.

“Soil is like humans in that it tends to revert back to old habits, so you need to amend soil on a yearly basis for best results,” Polman says. “If you do, you’ll water, weed and spray for pests less often, because the plants will be healthy.”

Control your weeds Unsightly, and crowding out our flowers and grass, weeds are the bane of the garden. Most people are quick to reach for the herbicide, but chemicals aren’t an Earth-friendly solution.

The greenest approach? Pull them out by hand and lay down lots of mulch. “Adding several inches of organic mulch — but not cocoa mulch, which gets mouldy and clumps together — will keep weeds down. It also holds moisture in the soil and improves the soil by adding nutrients as it decomposes,” explains Derwyn Miller, president of the Newmarket Garden Club. Just make sure to keep it away from the trunks of trees and the crowns of perennials to prevent rot and keep rodents from making a home near the roots.

A real green thumb It’s easy and rewarding to make natural, healthy changes to your garden. It’s beneficial to the environment, and your garden will actually grow better for it. Consider what changes you can make — and enjoy the pride of having a real green thumb.

be Water wise Debra Lidstone is bothered whenever she sees water misuse — like when people water their lawns. “People should bear in mind that when the lawn is brown and crispy in the height of the summer, it’s supposed to be,” Lidstone, a landscape designer and installer at Barrie Botanix, explains. “That’s how it protects itself: shutting down the top growth to preserve the valuable roots.” If you must water, aim for early in the morning, around five or six, when the grass will use the water efficiently. “When you water at night, it sits on the ground, promoting disease,” she says, “whereas during the day, a lot of the water will simply evaporate.”

Finally, instead of watering for a few minutes every day, it’s better to water very thoroughly

(an inch or so of water) once or twice a week.

When the grass is drenched, the water will seep down, creating deep and hardier roots; less-thorough watering results in shallow, vulnerable roots.

“Rain barrels are a great idea. They cut down on the need to use municipal water, and rain water is better for plants anyway, as tap water has a lot of minerals that plants don’t need, like chlorine and fluoride,” Derwyn Miller, president of the Newmarket Garden Club, explains. “Also becoming increasingly popular are rain gardens, which direct rain runoff from homes directly into gardens instead of into storm drains. York Region has a rain garden program where you get a grant if you install one in your yard.”

York Life May June 2017 | 25

home | House Tour

The

Personal Touch By creating their own floor plans and choosing their own finishes, this couple patiently created their dream home in Kleinburg

By Sue Kanhai Photography by Jim Craigmyle

26 | York Life May June 2017

York Life May June 2017 | 27

home | House Tour

T

he dream for a brand new house started with some undeveloped land in Kleinburg and a million-dollar view. Catherine and John Bagnoli immediately fell in love with the 70-foot lot and its panoramic vistas. They simply had to have it.

It took 15 months for their home to be built and another six to decorate. And yet a twoyear wait seems perfectly reasonable for the end result — a stunning luxury custom home tailor-made for entertaining.

It’s a house built on the details, which you can’t help but notice. Whether it’s the coffered ceilings, the wall panelling or the architectural open staircase, care has clearly been taken getting everything just right.

A southern exposure in the back ensures the principal rooms are flooded with natural light. The open-concept kitchen is made for a crowd, flowing into an eat-in area with a long family-friendly table that seats up to 18. Not a fan of having to drag her guests into the dining room, Catherine prefers that everyone stays in the kitchen.

John’s favourite space, the adjacent twostorey family room, boasts expansive windows, a perfect-for-lounging leather sofa and a floor-to-ceiling fireplace. It has the feeling of 28 | York Life May June 2017

a chic city apartment. “We wanted maximum windows, as big as we could get,” Catherine says. “You wouldn’t believe the views of the sunset.” The finished basement, meanwhile, is a great social space for their 22-year-old son and 20-year-old daughter to hang out, share with friends or just watch TV with the family dog, Chico.

An artist by trade, Catherine enjoyed selecting all the colours and finishes. She researched for a full year before even starting the decorating process, spending hours on the website Houzz. “Once we bought the lot, I had quite a bit of time to research,” she says. “I had most of my stuff purchased before they even dug the hole.” John, meanwhile, designed the layout.

Because Catherine wanted a look that would not date itself in five years, she eschewed bold colours and chose a more neutral palette of silver, white and taupe. The only departure from the script is her home office, which is black, gold and brown. “I tried to keep it as neutral as possible, because I tend to get tired of things easily,” she says.

Catherine also chose all the furniture and artwork, but relied on designer Larissa De Matteis as her sounding board. “I consulted

The couple opted for a generous, open-concept kitchen design that flows into an eat-in area.

with her on the things I wasn’t so sure about, like some of the lighting fixtures,” she says.

“She helped me confirm a lot of my choices.

When they weren’t good, she’d let me know.”

The couple definitely encountered some obstacles, the biggest of which was timing.

They sold their previous home and rented for a year, hoping the new house would be finished by then. Of course there were delays: the standard (waiting for permits and drawings) and the unexpected (a drywall and carpenter strike that brought construction to a standstill). When the landlord of their rental announced he wanted to sell, the family moved in with John’s parents for six months.

Other aspects of the project took on a life of their own. Because of sightlines, a ceiling treatment originally intended just for the family room had to be carried through the entire kitchen. The same happened with the wall panelling, which spread from a single main floor hallway all the way upstairs.

The footprint on the upper level is slightly smaller, to accommodate that stunning

The home’s neutral palette changes in the home office (above right), which features black, gold and brown. The two-storey family room (below) is a favourite space.

York Life May June 2017 | 29

home | House Tour double-height ceiling in the family room. “I’m not keen on having a huge upstairs, because it’s just for sleeping,” Catherine says. The main floor is 2,600 square feet, while the upstairs is 2,100. “The rooms are smaller,” she says. “Usually when you go to a house this big, the master bedroom and the ensuite are huge, but it’s just more to clean and take care of.”

“When we bought this lot, we didn’t even imagine how nice the view would be from upstairs,” Catherine says. “But when they put on the top floor and we went up there, we were just wowed.”

Wish list: • open kitchen with a big island • large family room • spacious office • modest dining room that fits six to eight people • smaller living room • open-riser staircase • walkout basement • big driveway with four-car garage

Upstairs, the rooms are slightly smaller to accommodate the height of the family room. But the owners don’t mind — it means less space to keep clean and maintain, they point out. Whatever the space, the family is delighted with the views provided by the second floor.

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30 | York Life May June 2017

Sources: General Contractor: Carmine Montemarano, Trevi Fine Homes Architect: Mike Cipolla, MRC Design Inc. Designer: Larissa De Matteis, Valdem Built Inc.

Fresh View

The right window treatment brightens your room and your life

By Audrey Conrad

W

ho doesn’t look forward to opening their windows after a long, cold winter?

They are our view of beautiful spring and summer days and a great source of natural light. But let’s face it: There are times we want them to be covered, no matter what the season.

Thankfully, today’s window coverings offer an abundance of choices.

They are not only practical, but also provide an opportunity to elevate the finishing touches when designing a room. One approach to window design is to use layers to create a soft and sophisticated look.

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home | Window Treatments

From bold and colourful to classically neutral, fabrics for window treatments run the gamut.

That means you can create your own custom window treatment that reflects your style and enhances your home.

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There are lots of ways to create a layered look for your windows. Whether you prefer sheers, blinds or Roman shades, starting with one of these options can address light filtration, offer some privacy and be a solid start to creating that layered look on your windows.

For the second layer, consider selecting a slightly weightier fabric. If privacy or light control are concerns, address this with the addition of proper lining. There are linings and interlinings that can simply darken a room to a degree or provide a virtual blackout. As a manufacturer of custom drapery and window treatments, I advise that you determine what degree of privacy and light filtration you require, and select your fabrics and lining accordingly. Consult a professional if you are unsure.

Lining and interlining not only helps with light filtration, it also protects your fabric from sun damage and adds body to your drapery. A beautiful, properly manufactured silk paired with lining and inter-lining will be protected from sunlight, last longer and add an exquisite fullness and richness when hung.

There are many options that work well together to create a layered look for your windows. Whether you like sheers with side panels or lightly textured blinds with beautifully patterned sheers as an enhancement, or perhaps a full complement of sheers with drapery panels and a valance — whatever your preference, contemporary choices can create beautiful window coverings.

Fabric selections today are seemingly endless, with so many amazing colours, textures and patterns. So, be creative and a little daring to create windows that will make a statement in your living space. One of my go-to fabric suppliers is Alendel fabrics (alendelfabrics. com). Whether you prefer solids with added texture or a pattern layered over a pretty sheer, you won’t be disappointed.

Finally, when considering a layered window treatment, maintain a cohesive look between your layers as well as with the rest of the decor in your room. Work with common colours, textures and patterns found throughout your space for your window fabrics and you’ll be well on your way to creating a window design that will enhance and elevate your home.

For more inFormation on how to get a York LiFe subscription pLease caLL 289-453-0116

Audrey Conrad is a drapery designer with Specialty House Manufacturing Ltd. Together, they provide full-service custom and ready-made windowcovering designs throughout the GTA. For more information, see specialtyhouse.net.

York Life May June 2017 | 33

A Basement for the Boys A damp, unusable, unwelcoming space becomes a hangout haven for three Aurora brothers

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home | Room Tour

W

By Tracy Smith Photography by Jim Craigmyle

hen you have a busy family with a variety of interests and activities, it can be hard to carve out a personal space for each member. Sarah Hepburn-Smith, a mom and interior decorator (Spruce Street Projects), was faced with the challenge of finding room in her century-plus red-brick home where her three sons (Cooper, eight, and twins Zach and Noah, 12) could hang out. Hepburn-Smith wanted a place where her boys, who often have friends in tow, could relax and have a bit more freedom to be louder and sloppier, without impacting the nicer, more formal spaces in the home.

As Hepburn-Smith scanned her home for possibilities, she decided to take an unfinished

BEFO RE

room in the basement and do a bit of remedial work to make it the perfect casual and virtually indestructible hangout for her boys. “In the past, we have had minor water issues in the basement, so I was very conscious of that as we decided to clean up the space and make it useable,” she explains. “We voted against the extremely pricey solution of waterproofing the basement and went instead with finishings that could handle occasional moisture every few years.”

The room started as a cold, bleak, unusable space, but after Hepburn-Smith’s low-cost, high-impact solution, it’s been transformed into a bright and colourful hangout haven that is enjoyed daily by all three of her sons.

“The hope was to transform a cold, dungeon-like space into a useable, kid-friendly zone for the boys to hang out in.”

— Sarah Hepburn-Smith, homeowner

The cold, bleak space that was the family’s basement has become a casual and indestructible hangout for the three boys. Pops of colour in the carpet and cushions, together with comfortable furnishings and personal finishing touches, such as artwork, make all the difference in this transformed space.

York Life May June 2017 | 35

home | Room Tour

Style Goal A no-fuss, bright and happy, comfortable yet durable space where the three boys could lounge around, play video games and hang out with their friends.

Budget Very low or no cost Get rid of • exposed ceiling • old laundry tub and plumbing rough-in • exposed electrical panel Add in • comfortable seating • closed-in ceiling with proper lighting • space for exercise equipment • youthful and high-impact colourful accents to add personality and fun • moisture- and water-friendly flooring and wall materials

Creating a comfortable space meant getting rid of such things as the exposed electrical panel, now hidden but accessible behind a door. A laundry tub and plumbing rough-in are also gone.

Moisture-friendly products • flooring: vinyl planks and carpet tiles (if they get wet, simply lift, dry and put back down) • water-blocking latex primer paint used for exterior walls for added moisture protection Splurges • construction costs of moving the plumbing, as well as properly fixing the electrical and ceiling

Bargains • Ikea couches, bright-coloured carpet tiles and poster prints for art Decorator tips for kid zones Furniture: Keep it durable and inexpensive.

Colour: Introduce bright colours in carpets, pillows, footrests and artwork.

Comfort: Kids love to feel cozy and at home, so add soft texture with blankets, pillows and area rugs.

Added touches: Frame it! Favourite photos, personal artwork, comic books, posters, superheroes — let the kids choose some of their beloved characters or art to add decor and give them ownership.

Reaction “The couches are my favourite part. They’re so comfy.”

— Cooper, 8 Source List Construction: Penryn Construction Design: Spruce Street Projects, sprucestreetprojects.com, 416-723-7840 Flooring: Home Depot Furniture: Ikea, ikea.com Pillows: Tonic Living, tonicliving.ca; Homesense, homesense.ca; Ikea, ikea.com Carpet Tiles: Flor, flor.com Paint Colour: Alabaster 7008 by Sherwin Williams Art: various posters collected

B E F OR E

A formerly water-damaged, dark space under the basement stairs is now home to a bright and handy mini-gym, with space for both a cardio workout and exercise equipment storage.

36 | York Life May June 2017

food & drink Fresh Outlook

Your shopping guide to farmers’ markets

By Leslee Mason

Slap on the sunscreen, get your small bills ready and grab your reusable bags — it’s farmers’ market season! There’s no doubt, they’re the spots to hit for local, seasonal and super-fresh fruits and vegetables. You can taste the difference, says Robert Chorney, executive director of Farmers’ Markets Ontario. “Fruits and vegetables are harvested fresh from the farm and sold directly to the consumer at the market within a few days.” Contrast that with store-bought produce, which is typically picked a week to 10 days before it lands on shelves.

Taste is just one benefit, of course. Farmers’ markets put money into the local economy, have a reduced carbon footprint and give you an opportunity to chat with the folks who grow your food. And along with featuring the best that Mother Nature has to offer, the markets offer an abundance of other goodies — everything from honey and preserves to baked goods and meats, and more.

Ready to max your shopping experience? Read on for how to buy what’s in season.

York Life May June 2017 | 37

food & drink | Farmers’ Market Produce

Asparagus

Beans

Blueberries

Broccoli

Carrots

Cauliflower

Cherries

Corn

Eggplant

Nectarines

Nutrition

Big or small, choose straight, crisp spears with tight green or purple heads

Depending on use, one pound (500 g) provides two to four servings

Source of vitamin C and folacin

Choose beans that easily snap; avoid bumpy pods (the enlarged seeds will have lost their tenderness)

Refrigerate up to a week, unwashed and bagged in plastic

Source of vitamin C and fibre

Select sweet-smelling and fairly firm berries with no signs of mould or mildew

For best flavour, serve at room temperature

Excellent source of vitamin C and folacin; source of fibre and potassium

Look for tight buds, bright grey-green leaves and slender yellow-green stems

Steam pieces just to the point of tender (eight to 15 minutes)

Excellent source of beta carotene; source of folacin and fibre

Buy firm, crisp carrots with smooth exteriors; avoid ones with dark green “shoulders” below top, which may signal bitterness

Remove leafy green tops; store in plastic and keep in crisper for up to three weeks

Excellent source of vitamin C; Look for firm, tightly flowered good source of folacin; source heads with fine or creamy of potassium white florets and fresh leaves

Brown spots are typically water marks, while yellowish spots may indicate an older cauliflower

Source of vitamin C and potassium

Look for bright colour and supple exterior

Keep dry. Discard any squashed ones; their juice can spoil the rest

Good source of folacin; contains fibre, vitamin C and thiamine

Look for bright green, moist husks with silk that is stiff, dark and moist

Natural sugar declines, so cook and eat as soon as possible. Refrigerate in a plastic bag for up to three days

Source of folacin and potassium

Select plump and heavy ones that are firm to the touch and free of wrinkles

Cut with a stainless steel rather than carbon steel knife, which can cause a bitter aftertaste

Source of potassium and vitamins A and C

Choose ones that are plump, firm and relatively heavy with bright colour and fruity scent

Best eaten within a week; store in a single layer

Source of vitamin C

Fruit should be relatively firm with a sweet smell, smooth skin and a clear peach colour

Ripen fruit at room temperature away from direct sun; keep ripe peaches in fridge and eat within five days

Excellent source of folacin; source of vitamins A and C, fibre and potassium

Look for smooth, bright green and glossy pods with green stems

Best eaten immediately, but can be bagged in plastic and stored in crisper for up to several days

Source of vitamin C

Look for good colour and a rel- Rinse just before using. atively heavy feel; they should Store ripe ones in fridge and eat as soon as possible be smooth and have some give with gentle pressure

Excellent source of vitamin C, potassium and fibre

Look for red ones with a sweet smell and no white or green spots

Plums

Strawberries

Source: Ontario.ca

38 | York Life May June 2017

Tips

Source of vitamins C and A, excellent source of folacin

Peaches

Peas (green)

Buying

To freeze: Wash and remove hulls, place in a single layer on tray; transfer to freezer bags and store in freezer

In the kitchen with…

Cornerhouse on Main This eclectic Stouffville restaurant delivers bistro-style food in a feel-at-home atmosphere

By Sue Kanhai | Photography by Jim craigmyle

T

rue to its residential roots, the Cornerhouse on Main is unique, eclectic and the kind of place where you can enjoy top-notch food in a setting that feels like home. That may be because it actually was a home — as old as the town itself — before it became a restaurant 30 years ago. Owners Jennifer Kah and Paul Walker have been at the helm for the past seven years, and they ensure their venue has something for everyone.

Hoping for a quiet night? Sit near the fireplace on the main floor and enjoy a glass of wine with your grilled steak. The more formal dining area features floor-to-ceiling glassencased wine racks and the cozy open kitchen.

Guests have even gotten married in front of the fireplace.

If you’re hoping to watch your favourite sports team, head to the second floor, where

there’s a lounge with a bar and rooftop patio.

Or, take in some live music on a Saturday night. Keith Sinclair, the resident bar manager and music aficionado, is a well-known personality to regulars. Guests often try to stump him with their most esoteric music questions.

The restaurant even hosts a weekly songwriters’ open mic on Saturday afternoons.

The couches on the third floor, meanwhile, are perfect for drinks and catching up with friends. This newest space is often used for private events. With two walls of windows and overlooking Stouffville Memorial Park, it’s also the perfect place to watch Canada Day fireworks, and tables there are booked months in advance.

No matter where you settle in, you can enjoy the same bistro-style menu on all three floors. Chef Charlene Santos, who trained York Life May June 2017 | 39

food & drink | In the Kitchen at George Brown College in Toronto, has a whimsical style and believes in having fun with food. One of the current dishes is a one-pound popper: a poblano pepper stuffed with macaroni and cheese, encrusted in panko breadcrumbs, deep-fried, cut in half, covered in béchamel sauce and cheese, baked and then topped with pulled pork.

“It was a goofy idea,” Santos says. “It becomes this really decadent, almost silly dish.

It’s not meant to be taken seriously. I think food should make you smile.”

That doesn’t mean they don’t take their food seriously, though. In fact, the culinary team prides itself on being able to adapt to dietary restrictions, especially allergies. “Everybody wants to eat well, regardless of what they can or cannot eat,” Santos says. “I think breaking bread with people is one of the most amazing things you can do to get to know somebody.”

Five Questions Wi th Ch e f Charl e n e Sa n to s

At what age did you first become interested in cooking?

Being Filipino, I always had food as part of our culture. It was a huge part of our family dynamic as I was growing up. When my dad passed away, food became an integral part of my being. I changed from photography and advertising to pursue the culinary world, because it was something that reminded me of him. My love for cooking expanded; it became not only part of my future, but linked me to my past.

Who would you say is your favourite chef?

Currently, April Bloomfield has been an inspiration. [The British chef] describes her food 40 | York Life May June 2017

as fussy and rustic at the same time, which I completely relate to. Her style has so many layers of flavours, yet she focuses on the little things. Her understanding that simple food can be great really hits home for me.

What do you think is the most common mistake people make when cooking?

I think getting tied down to a recipe. Everybody’s skill set, dietary restrictions and the flavour profiles they enjoy are different. I suggest making a recipe from start to finish the first time, but the next time change it according to your style. Most home cooks get caught up in needing exactly a teaspoon or a quarter cup of a specific ingredient, yet they

know what their family likes. Do what works for your family; that way, you know they will enjoy it. Food should be fluid. Have your structure, but have some fun with it, too.

What is your signature dish?

Duck bacon! It’s smoked duck that we slice thinly, put a 12-spice blend on and bake it, then actually glaze it with my Jack Daniels maple syrup. It has a really different texture.

It’s layered with flavour — a little bit of heat and sweetness, plus it has caramelization on top because of that maple syrup. We have it on our charcuterie board and you can also add it to your burger. Some guests add it to their Caesar salads because they love it so much. I’ve had guests order a charcuterie board, skip the other meats and only have duck bacon on it.

I’m not allowed to take that off the menu.

What’s your favourite thing to order when you dine out?

I have this thing about pizza and wine. My husband and I used to get different “grades” of pizza — fast food, gourmet, pizza from different regions of Italy — and then pair them with different wines from the LCBO. The wines would range in price from $10 to $20 and we’d mix and match them. Sometimes you would have really good pizza with mediocre wine or mediocre pizza with a really great wine. It’s so simple, but it shows just how much can change instantly depending on the matchup.

Ginger-Glazed Seared Salmon 4 tbsp vegetable oil, divided 4 6-oz skinless salmon fillets Salt and pepper, to taste 2 tbsp unsalted butter 4 king oyster mushrooms, sliced 2 lb baby bok choy, halved 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 thumb-sized knob ginger,

peeled and julienned 6 tbsp oyster sauce 1/3 cup dry white wine 1/3 cup vegetable stock 2 tbsp green onion, thinly sliced 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced 4 cups wild rice, cooked

In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tbsp of oil on medium-high. Lightly season salmon with salt and pepper and place in oil, searing on all sides. Cook to desired doneness and set aside.

In a separate large pan, melt butter and sauté mushrooms on medium heat. Avoid crowding the pan with too many mushrooms or they will steam. Do this step in two batches if necessary to achieve a golden colour on the edges of the mushrooms.

Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and lightly season with salt. Add bok choy and cook for 1½ minutes, or until the whites are fork tender. Drain, and add to sautéed mushrooms; add salt and pepper, to taste.

Gather all remaining ingredients before starting this step to avoid burning. In a separate pan, heat remaining 2 tbsp of vegetable oil on medium-high. Add garlic and ginger, moving them constantly for about 15 seconds. Add in oyster sauce, cooking for another 45 seconds. Add wine and reduce by half on medium heat, about a minute, depending on size of pan. Still over medium heat, add vegetable stock, onions and pepper. Reduce liquid by a third — about two minutes.

Arrange wild rice on a platter (or individual plates) and drizzle with about one-third of the sauce. Place salmon on top of rice and spoon remaining sauce overtop. Serve with your choice of vegetables.

Makes 4 servings.

York Life May June 2017 | 41

food & drink | Recipe

Devilled Eggs

42 | York Life May June 2017

It can be tough to top a classic recipe, but these tasty twists on this summery staple will add panache to any picnic or garden party.

Follow our directions for Classic Devilled Eggs and then mix up half with one of our savoury variations Recipes by Julie Miguel Photography by Michael Rao

Classic Devilled Eggs 12 hard-cooked eggs, peeled 1/4 cup mayonnaise 2 tsp Dijon mustard 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper Pinch paprika (optional) Cut eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and place in a medium-sized bowl. Set egg whites aside.

Mash yolks with a fork, then stir in mayonnaise, mustard, salt and pepper. Spoon or pipe yolk mixture into egg white halves.

Sprinkle paprika overtop, if desired.

Serve immediately, or cover and store in refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Makes 24.

York Life May June 2017 | 43

food & drink | Recipe

BLT-Style Devilled Eggs

Dilly Pickle Devilled Eggs

12 12 6 4

12 classic devilled eggs 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped 12 small cocktail pickles

classic devilled eggs Boston lettuce leaves, washed cherry tomatoes, halved strips cooked bacon, each cut into 6 shorter strips

Place 1 devilled egg on each lettuce leaf.

Add half a cherry tomato followed by two bacon strips to each egg. Serve immediately, or cover and store in refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Sprinkle dill over devilled eggs, then top each with a cocktail pickle. Serve immediately, or cover and store in refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Makes 12.

Makes 12.

Other topping options: • bacon, blue cheese, chives • smoked salmon, capers, lemon zest • ham, cheddar, green onion • crushed potato chips

44 | York Life May June 2017

Elevate Your Eggs-perience Now that you’ve kicked your devilled eggs up a notch, why not take that taste to the next level by pairing them with the perfect wine? If you like bubbles, pop open a dry cava or prosecco. Or, opt for a light white, such as La Crema Sonoma Coast 2014 Chardonnay ($29.95, Vintages, LCBO), with its hints of apple, white peach and nutmeg.

Bon appétit!

travel

Take a Hike!

Warm spring and summer days don’t linger long enough, which is why it’s so important to get out and experience the nice weather while we have it. So, while not all of us have a cottage in the woods to escape to, you can head out and discover many local trails in York Region to enjoy the great outdoors. — R.N.

York Life May June 2017 | 45

travel | Getaway

Savouring Ste. Anne’s A short drive from home brings you to a place where you can really change gears

By Jacqueline Kovacs

46 | York Life May June 2017

N

eed to unwind and recharge, but don’t have the time to fly somewhere exotic for a week? Consider looking closer to home. Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, with its world-class spa services, range of relaxed accommodations, first-rate dining and more, has everything you need to feel indulged and recharged — all in a couple of days.

Plus, you can customize your experience to suit your needs. Enjoy your own personal escape, plan a romantic weekend with your partner or do what I recently did — a “girls’ getaway” with my sister, Sandy. Read on to find out how you can create your own blend of wellness classes, dining and deeply relaxing spa treatments for the perfect mini-vacation.

York Life May June 2017 | 47

travel | Getaway Get into the groove Make time at the outset to get acquainted with all this resort has to offer. Ste. Anne’s sits on 400 acres of farmland and includes the Main Inn, with treatment rooms, a restaurant, relaxation and eucalyptus steam rooms and more; the Ste. Anne’s Bakery; horse stables; herb and rose gardens; and Maison Santé, which houses workout equipment, a sauna and a hot tub.

Worth trying: wellness classes. I was skeptical at the start of our 30-minute Yoga Nidra class. I struggle with turning off my hamsterwheel brain, even when I’m exhausted, so I was pleasantly surprised to find my body relaxing, part by part, as I lay on the yoga studio floor, listening to the instructor’s soothing voice.

Savour local flavour Ste. Anne’s mouth-watering meals feature local ingredients whenever possible. The mojito tuna tartare, an appetizer infused with mint and rum and served on butter lettuce, melts in your mouth. The duck confit, which features spinach, shallots, apples and toasted walnuts, is a popular choice. Beef lovers may wish to ask

about the daily beef feature, created with Ste. Anne’s own grass-fed cattle. All menus include vegetarian and vegan options.

Settle in Sandy and I enjoyed the quiet of Sentosa East, a short walk from the Main Inn and a world away from grocery shopping, taxiing kids around and the bleeping of smartphones. Our room in the triplex had two cushy queen-size beds, a sitting area, a fireplace and a generous deck with a view of the countryside. The overall unit includes a shared kitchen, living room and outdoor hot tub.

Larger parties or whole families can take advantage of cottages, like the four-bedroom Vista Lago or the Maison Santé Nook. Need a room for just one or two? Stay in the original 150-year-old Massey family structure and enjoy a room with a whirlpool tub and woodburning fireplace.

Just say, “Spaaaah!”

No escape to Ste. Anne’s would be complete without indulging in at least one of its treat-

ments. And why stop at one? Sandy and I treated ourselves to facials and massages. My “Express Facial” was 45 minutes of headand-shoulders heaven, with a hand-and-arm massage thrown in for good measure. My sister’s one-hour “Signature Facial,” meanwhile, included a foot and head massage. As for the essential oils lingering in her hair post-treatment, she declared it was totally worth it.

I had my own oiled-hair experience the next day during my 75-minute aroma stone therapy massage. After custom blending three essential oils, my therapist gently massaged me from head to toe using warm stones on my skin.

I left feeling more relaxed than I can remember.

Feel it to believe it And that, after all, is the point of the Ste. Anne’s getaway. You disconnect from the stresses of regular life and reconnect with the moment. The fact that the moment may be breathing in eucalyptus-infused steam or drinking in the sensation of warm rocks gliding on your tired shoulders, all the better. See steannes.com for more details.

More to Indulge In Ste. Anne’s is growing to offer guests more of both its traditional services as well as other sensory delights. Here’s what’s coming: • a hydrotherapy facility, with large, outdoor hot soaking tubs, cedar barrel saunas and a fire pit • cooking classes for groups or individuals • the spa’s exclusive skincare line, Ste. Anne’s Skin Nourishment, with ingredients right out of the gardens on the property

With its mouth-watering menus, range of comfy accommodations, world-class treatments and range of on-site indulgences, Ste. Anne’s is a relaxing getaway that is close to home.

48 | York Life May June 2017

travel | Smarts

How to

Navigate

Connecting Flights Never throw caution to the wind. Take all the right steps to make sure your flight connections flow as smoothly as possible. Here’s how

By Doug Wallace

1. Whenever possible, try to leave plenty of time between your flights just in case your starting leg kicks off behind schedule.

A good rule of thumb is to aim for at least 90 minutes.

2. Carry-on luggage is always preferred. If you do have to check a bag, keep in mind that you may need time to collect it from the carousel and recheck it through to your final destination.

3. Build in time for possible security checks at the connection. Don’t assume you’re going to just saunter over to your next departure gate. You may even have to change terminals.

4. Book the flights as far in advance as possible, and go with the morning routes.

You’ll have a much better chance of correcting a connecting problem if it occurs early in the day.

5. Never take the last flight out of anywhere, or you could find yourself settling into a nice bourbon at one of the airport’s cardboard motels.

6. Never assume the airline has built in the necessary time to connect. Always find out what the minimum connection time is at your connecting airport.

7. Smaller connecting airports will have fewer problems, fewer people and less traffic than the insanely busy JFKs and LAXs of the world.

8. Consider the weather in the connecting city. There is more chance of a weather delay in New York than in Miami.

9. Never buy two separate tickets. If your first flight is delayed, you will have to eat the cost of the missed second flight. Or, book flights within the same alliance.

10. Try to sit at the front of the plane for your first flight so that you can make a quicker exit.

11. If you’re a worrier and like to leave several hours between flights, sit down and enjoy a nice steak before your next flight.

So civilized.

12. You can also plan for an even bigger window and do something big-picture: take a city tour, go downtown for a quick shop or get a massage at the airport spa.

(Warning: Don’t take a nap without setting an alarm!)

13. Mentally prepare yourself for delays.

Sometimes no matter what, things are just not going to go your way — and there’s nothing you can do.

14. Can’t handle it? Pay the extra money and fly non-stop.

York Life May June 2017 | 49

travel | Vaycay

Playful

Palermo

Exotic, elegant and oh so sexy, this chic Buenos Aires district should definitely be on your travel short list

By Doug Wallace

50 | York Life May June 2017

H

ands up: How many of you have at least some of the Evita soundtrack burned into your mind?

The musical brought Buenos Aires to the attention of so many who would otherwise have thought South America was just one crime-ridden, financially challenged region after another. This enthralling sprawl of urbanity is the Paris of South America. Here’s a brief list of ways to play in BA, things to do and where to get them done.

York Life May June 2017 | 51

Set up camp There are many neighbourhoods to hit, but establish home base in the fashionable, comfortable Palermo, which is divided into three sub-hoods: Palermo Viejo, Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood. From there, break up your days visiting other parts of town.

The core (Microcentro), San Telmo, La Boca, Recoleta and Barrio Norte, just to scratch the surface. Our pick of the boutique bunch in terms of Palermo hotels is Home Hotel (homebuenosaires.com), whose name really suits it — fantastic decor, a cool spa, a termi-

nally cute back garden and pool, and some of the best cocktails in town.

For best value, though, consider renting a condo and getting a bunch of friends to travel with you. There are many websites that can set you up comfortably and easily, in particular, Buenos Aires Habitat (buenosaireshabitat. com). Try to find something chic with a rooftop pool — great for reviving the soul after an afternoon in the considerable heat.

See the sights Take time for the obligatory Buenos Aires

Recoleta Cemetery (left) has been called one of the most beautiful in the world.

If that weren’t enough reason to spend some time there, it’s also the final resting spot of Eva Peron, presidents of Argentina and even a granddaughter of Napolean. Its history dates back to 1732.

must-dos, even if some of them are merely a breeze-through. Don’t miss the Plaza de Mayo, a key commercial area bounded on one side by the Casa Rosada, the pink presidential palace with the world-famous balcony (and just try not to sing that song). Trip through the chaos of Florida Street, hopefully side-stepping the pickpockets. The Japanese Garden is a perfect chance to get away from it all for an hour or so, as is the Museo Evita (museoevita.org. ar), which is filled with memorabilia and some pretty cool souvenirs.

Set aside a solid two hours for the marvellous Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires, or MALBA (malba.org.ar). The café there is top-notch, should you want to schedule your visit around lunch. Note that most art galleries and museums are closed on Tuesdays.

Recoleta Cemetery (recoletacemetery.com) exhibits a maze of above-ground crypts old and new, where lie the city’s well-to-do. The mix of architecture makes for interesting snapshots and the beauty is surprisingly un-creepy. This is where Eva Peron is buried, so make sure you get the obligatory photo. And if you really need to see an overpriced tango show, by all means: try Rojo Tango at the Faena Hotel + Universe (rojotango.com). Polo lessons, soccer games, flea markets, city tours, sky diving… The sky is the limit in this town. If there’s time, a short trip to the Pampas, a sail through the River Plate or a train ride to the little town of Tigre are all within easy reach.

Buenos Aires is a beautiful city of contrasts. From the iconic Casa Rosada, with its stunning balcony (above left) where Eva Peron so famously spoke, to the humble and numerous parrillas, where barbecue is the order of the day. Taking in both experiences, by the way, is well worth your while.

52 | York Life May June 2017

Photography: Doug Wallace (top); Tom Holett (lower left); Lorraine Gajdharsingh (lower right)

travel | Vaycay

Photography: Doug Wallace (top); Home Hotel (lower left); Tegui (lower right)

Treat the tastebuds Palermo’s restaurant highlight award goes to Tegui (tegui.com.ar), for gorgeous meals in a glam setting. Tuna carpaccio with shaved foie gras, veal tartare, sea bass, stuffed quail, amazing desserts. Patrons are buzzed in through a graffiti-strewn entrance, enhancing the mystique. Make La Cabrera (lacabrera. com.ar) a priority, the top steak place — or parilla, is constantly busy to overflowing. Bio Solo Orgánico (biorestaurant.com.ar), a small organic vegetarian restaurant, is a delightful fresh-flavour experience, and a huge break from the barrage of beef.

For cocktails, Frank’s (no website, Arévalo 1445) has a Get Smart-type entrance, where you gain entry by dialling the “secret code” in an American phone booth, the back of which then opens out onto a ’20s-style lounge. Suspenderwearing bartenders specialize only in drinks fashionable from that era, and the well-dressed mixed crowd is interesting and friendly. For more pre-club congregating, head closer to the centre of town to step back in time at old Argentinian mansion-cum-restaurant bar Milión (milionargentina.com.ar) and see the town’s beautiful people at play.

Hit the shops Palermo Soho is one of the best shopping regions in Palermo, home to all the top boutiques in town, from clothing to shoes to gifts all kitted out in former industrial buildings and spruced-up old mansions. Set your sights on Jorge Luis Borges, Armenia, Honduras, Gurruchaga or Malabia streets and take it from there.

The open markets on Plaza Serrano and Plaza Armenia are busy on the weekends with both tourists and locals, if you like that sort of thing.

Take Care Palermo is relatively safe and quiet, but elsewhere, beware of the bling! Flashy jewellery and watches say, “I have money” and “My bag likely has a nice phone in it.” Bank machines are few and far between, so stock up when you see one, unless it’s at night (never a good idea). Expect lineups, especially midday. Tread carefully: The concept of picking up after your pet has not reached Argentina. Described by the guidebooks as a “relaxed atmosphere,” customer service is hit and miss. Shoppers and retailers actually chat, sometimes for many minutes. Be prepared to watch servers bus a table for a full five minutes before wandering over with a menu. Have fun!

If you plan to be in the centre of it all, it’s hard to miss the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral (top), overlooking Plaza de Mayo. For a refreshing break, try the chic back garden at Home Hotel (above left) or opt for a bite at the tricky-to-spot Tegui restaurant (above right).

York Life May June 2017 | 53

feature |

Community Boosters To help celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday, we’re bringing you portraits of York Region Joann MacDonald residents who support their communities and their country By photography by Jim Craigmyle Frank Scarpitti, Mayor of Markham A Markham resident since 1965, Mayor Frank Scarpitti has seen the community bloom from small town to city. He grew up just north of the Milne Dam Conservation Park, and recalls that visiting family stayed the night rather than driving all the way back to Toronto. In the ’80s, as program director for Classicom Cable, he interviewed politicians, including the late Tony Roman, mayor of Markham from 1970 to 1984. Roman had persuaded Scarpitti to run for regional council in 1985 — and a career in politics was born.

Community commitment: The seeds of community service were planted when Scarpitti was a teen member of the St. Patrick’s Parish youth group. Mayor of Markham since 2006, he supports organizations such as Yellow Brick House and the Centre for Dreams. As co-chair of Markham Stouffville Hospital’s capital campaign, he helped raise more than $50 million. “I take a lot of pride when I look at the amazing facility that’s there to serve the community today,” Scarpitti says. He looks forward to breaking ground on York Region’s first university campus and expanding Digital Markham, which provides online services to the community.

Canada 150: Scarpitti sees this as an opportunity to celebrate what Canada is today — a fulfillment of people’s hopes and dreams.

“People have come here from all parts of the world, like my parents, who came here to have a better life for themselves and for their children.

In doing so, they’ve created the best country in the world.” His biggest reward? “The feeling of satisfaction when you hear somebody who has come from another part of the world say they feel at home now.”

54 | York Life May June 2017

All Brides Calling

Would you like your wedding featured in Wedding Trends?

It’s easy. Using the subject line “Wedding Trends,” send two photos plus a 100-word description of what made your wedding special to goodlifeeditor@yrmg.com. If your wedding is chosen, your story and photos will be included in the 2018 issue of Wedding Trends, York Region’s best wedding magazine!

Walk Through

Your Life With Comfort.

We’ll help put you on your feet again!

State of the art custom orthotics Laser Treatment for fungal nails Shockwave for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain) Ultrasound & Magnetic Pulse for injuries Ingrown and painful toenails Bunion and hammertoe surgery Diabetic foot care

For appointment call us at 905-470-2440 or visit us at markhampodiatry.com

4997 Hwy 7.

Unit 5. Markham Mews Plaza York Life May June 2017 | 55

feature |

Michelle Risi-Anagnostopoulos, Executive Vice-President, Royal LePage Your Community Realty, Richmond Hill Michelle Risi-Anagnostopoulos started her real estate career at the tender age of 13. Later, when her mother, Vivian, bought a real estate office, Risi-Anagnostopoulos worked there and never looked back. A broker, she also started an exclusive real estate academy for newly licensed brokers. As executive vice-president for Royal LePage Your Community Realty in Richmond Hill, Risi-Anagnostopoulos manages two of the 10 locations, supports education in her industry and volunteers in the community.

Community commitment: “At a very early age, I had an innate drive to want to help others,” Risi-Anagnostopoulos says. “I would volunteer in high school for roles such as peer counsellor.” These days, giving back happens nearly daily through her business, through hosting local blood drives and charity garage sales, sponsoring community events or supporting local hospitals Outside of work, Risi-Anagnostopoulos is a volunteer board member and advocate for the PKD Foundation of Canada, an organization dedicated to raising money for and awareness of PKD (polycystic kidney disease), and finding a cure. She is the co-chair of the “Shaped by Experience” campaign at Holy Trinity School, a private school in York Region, raising funds for personalized learning, enhanced learning spaces and creative innovative thinking.

Canada 150: “It’s a reminder of the freedom we have and the opportunities that exist for each of us,” Risi-Anagnostopoulos says.

“Canada was built based on the hard work and sacrifice of our ancestors. So, I think it’s a great time to recognize those who have given back and who continue to give back.”

56 | York Life May June 2017

Steve Hinder, Manager of Magna for Community, Aurora Community connection has been a way of life for Steve Hinder. A police officer for 30 years, Hinder retired in 2001, only to launch Steve Hinder and Associates, a consulting company focused on workplace training. A friend who worked at Magna International in Aurora­asked Hinder to help with then Magna president and CEO Belinda Stronach’s 2004 campaign to become a Member of Parliament. That led to a four-year stint as Stronach’s constituency manager and to his current position as manager of Magna for Community, a role that includes coordinating Neighbourhood Network, a nonprofit that promotes volunteer opportunities in York Region.

Community commitment: Hinder seeks to spread volunteerism. “I believe when you reap the benefits derived from living in a great community, it is your responsibility to give back,” the Aurora resident of more than 40 years says.

“There’s almost a need to make time in your schedule to provide that balance in your life.”

A former six-year board member of Southlake Regional Health Centre, Hinder chairs the annual Run or Walk for Southlake, which he walked with his two children and four grandchildren last year. He has worked on behalf of Cedar Centre, Easter Seals and Youth at Risk, winning awards such as the Ontario Crime Control Commission Award of Excellence, the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals and a Community Living Newmarket/Aurora Community Service Award.

Canada 150: Hinder believes the country’s sesquicentennial is a chance to reflect on the past and acknowledge what got us here. To maintain a sense of community, he says, we must promote core Canadian values such as compassion and acceptance, and create an environment that encourages newcomers to get involved.

York Life May June 2017 | 57

feature |

Cultural Mosaic 58 | York Life May June 2017

Markham artists share their true patriot love

By Sue Kanhai | Photography by Jim Craigmyle York Life May June 2017 | 59

feature |

T

o celebrate the country she loves so much, Linda Ruscio McIntosh gathered her fellow artists and took the lead on an inspiring project. While it isn’t the first time the Markham Group of Artists have pooled their talents to give back to the community, for many, this undertaking was especially meaningful.

Spurred on by the ugliness and tumult of the recent U.S. presidential election, McIntosh relished the chance to focus on the positive.

“I wanted to show how people from all walks of life, who are each individuals with different ideas, can pull together and be stronger as one,” she says.

She sketched out a few possibilities before deciding on the larger, central image: a serene lake surrounded by natural, rugged beauty — a quintessential Canadian scene.

Her drawing was then divided into 32 one-square-foot panels that were given out to 23 artists, a mix of beginner and professional painters. They were tasked with creating a panel that helps tell the story of Canada, both as a stand-alone piece and one that fits seamlessly into the bigger picture.

The result, Canada 150, is a stunningly detailed eight-by-four-foot mosaic that is layered with meaning. Look closely and you discover multiple hidden images that pay homage to

the many who helped build and shape this country: Aboriginal Peoples, Chinese railway workers, political leaders and other prominent Canadians. “Each artist put in what they thought was important,” she says.

McIntosh herself is a mixed-media collage artist with a background as a graphic designer, experience she drew on to help conceptualize the piece and puzzle out the logistics.

“It took 23 artists to pour their hearts and souls into this and make it what it is.

There isn’t anyone who hasn’t been awe-inspired when they see it. They’re amazed at how it was done and what it depicts” “Artists are used to working in their studios in isolation,” she says. “With something like this, you have to consider what others are doing and work together. Some artists can get a

little bit defensive or argumentative regarding certain aspects of their work, but we all wanted to work together and it turned out well. I was so touched by how everyone gave it their all.”

The panels the painters first received were abstract and couldn’t be interpreted easily.

This was deliberate on McIntosh’s part, as she wanted the painters to concentrate on shape, proportion and colour while telling their own stories.

Particular attention needed to be paid to the edges. Because each panel lines up to the next, the colours have to match. This meant getting everyone together in person occasionally to see how the whole was progressing.

The group met at McIntosh’s home a couple of times — the massive work sprawled atop the Ping-Pong table in her basement.

One artist broke her arm halfway through her piece, so McIntosh completed it on her behalf.

“When someone was sick, we would all pitch in to make it work.”

While mostly an acrylic piece, other elements found their way in. Japanese tissue paper, an old black-and-white newspaper photo, even real maple leaves — coated well so they won’t disintegrate — have all been included.

McIntosh’s own four panels reveal numerous intricate details. Background rocks con-

McIntosh collaged Tragically Hip singer Gord Downie onto one of her panels, to acknowledge the awareness he has brought to First Nations issues.

60 | York Life May June 2017

tain Inuit soapstone carvings, as well as ancient First Nations petroglyphs found in northern Ontario. “I grew up in Sault Ste. Marie, so this is also a nod to my northern roots,” she says.

She collaged singer Gord Downie’s image onto one of the panels to acknowledge the awareness he’s brought to First Nations issues.

She included totem poles, part of the cultures of many indigenous peoples as well as a reference to Emily Carr’s famous totem paintings. McIntosh’s scenes featuring Chinese immigrants working on the railways used photo transfers made from archival photographs, also collaged onto the canvas.

The painting is permanently installed in the Welcome Centre Immigrant Services building in Richmond Hill, and manager Ann Labombard couldn’t be more pleased. “The vision was to celebrate the country’s history and depict 150 years of what immigrants have brought to Canada,” Labombard says. “Much is owed to the First Nations populations, as well as the immigrants who came here.”

The centre is an ideal venue. The piece is seen every day by recent newcomers to Canada, and it immediately became a popular place for families to have their pictures taken together.

“It took 23 artists to pour their hearts and souls into this and make it what it is,” Labombard says. “There isn’t anyone who hasn’t come

McIntosh, a mixed-media collage artist with a background as a graphic designer, spearheaded the art project. After the ugliness of the U.S. election, she relished the chance to focus on something positive.

into the centre who isn’t awe-inspired when they see it. They’re amazed at how it was done and what it depicts. It tells such a story. It’s not something you can put a price tag on.”

The Markham Group of Artists would like to acknowledge the generous support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, whose grant made this project possible.

Her scenes featuring Chinese immigrants working on the railways used photo transfers from archival photos, then collaged onto the canvas.

York Life May June 2017 | 61

polo under the stars:

June 22, 2017 polo for heart:

June 24 & 25, 2017 @ the toronto polo club, richmond hill

proceeds to benefit the southlake regional health centre foundation and the heart & stroke foundation

feature | Father’s Day

Gifts Guys of r the

T

he next time you have to buy a little something for a man in your life, we challenge you to raise the bar. This year, set your sights a little higher than the beenthere-done-that barbecue tools, ties or bottles of wine and really personalize that present.

To inspire you, we’ve created a list of amazing must-have offerings for all the guys in your life. There’s something here for everyone, from fathers to friends. Good to keep in mind since Father’s Day is fast approaching!

By Tracy Smith | photography by Jim craigmyle

The Groomer

Gift: A Shaving Set by the Art of Shaving A collection of shaving supplies to make the experience extra special and luxurious.

Prices: Brush, $73, Preshave Oil, $31, Aftershave Balm, $49, Shaving Cream, $31.

Available at: Sephora, sephora.com

York Life May June 2017 | 63

feature | Father’s Day

The Meat Lover

The Outdoorsman

Gift: Kindle Cracker by Northern Tool + Equipment A firewood kindling splitter, perfect for those who chop their own wood, own a cottage or regularly enjoy their wood-burning fireplace.

Price: $99.99 Available at: northerntool.com

The Traveller

Gift: RFID-Blocking Wallet by Secrid A wallet that helps protect against electronic pickpocketing of information from credit card and passports.

Price: $89.95 Available at: Crossings, Upper Canada Mall, Newmarket, crossingsnewmarket.com; secrid.com

64 | York Life May June 2017

Gift: The Carnivore Club The world’s first curated cured meat-of-the-month club, featuring the delectable creations of artisans from around the world.

Price: Starting at $39/month Available at: carnivoreclub.co

Fashion-Forward

Gift: Invisible Socks by Marcoliani Milano Wear these with shoes for a no-sock look, perfect for golf and summer footwear.

Price: $23/pair Available at: Crossings, Upper Canada Mall, Newmarket, crossingsnewmarket.com; M.R. Wardrobe, Aurora, mrwardrobe.ca; Harry Rosen, harryrosen.com; Saks Fifth Avenue, saksfifthavenue.com

The Reader

Gift: Books, of course!

Dark Matter by Blake Crouch, $33 A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin, $41 Men in Green by Michael Bamberger, $22 Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice by Bill Browder, $21 Elon Musk: Inventing the Future by Ashlee Vance, $22 Available at: Chapters, chapters.indigo.ca

The Weekender

Gift: Duffle Bag by Herschel This updated and stylish take on the weekend bag is great for overnight getaways, quick jaunts to the cottage or even the gym.

Price: Starting at $89.99 Available at: Flipside, Aurora, flipsideapparel.ca; herschelsupply.com

The Great Griller

Gift: Leather Apron by Outset Made from heavy leather, this masculine apron is ideal for any man who likes to cook and entertain.

Price: $77.99 Available at: Yonge Street Winery, Aurora, yongestreetwinery.com

The Golfer

Gift: The Adidas Tour360 Boost This latest and greatest golf shoe is flying off shelves around the world. Perfect as a group gift for Dad and just in time for golf season.

Price: $249.99 Available at: sportchek.ca

The Scotch Enthusiast

Gift: Glencairn Whisky Glasses Sip from specially designed glasses for the ultimate scotch whisky experience.

Price: $28.98/pair Available at: The Yonge Street Winery, Aurora, yongestreetwinery.com

Every Man

Gift: Underwear by SAXX This revolutionized underwear for men is designed to “equip you with game-changing, next-level apparel that allows you to move freely” and that “feels like it’s barely there.”

Price: Starting at $25 Available at: Flipside, Aurora, flipsideapparel.ca; saxxunderwear.com

SOURCES: Chapters: Various York Region locations, chapters.indigo.ca Crossings: Upper Canada Mall, Newmarket, (905) 898-7195, crossingsnewmarket.com Flipside Apparel: 14845 Yonge St., Aurora, (905) 727-0824, flipsideapparel.ca Sephora: Various York Region locations, sephora.com Sport Chek: Various York Region locations, sportchek.ca Yonge Street Winery: 14834 Yonge St., Aurora, (905) 841-5552, yongestreetwinery.com

York Life May June 2017 | 65

Millennium Bandstand, Unionville Built in the year 2000, this elegant structure reflects the quaint, old-fashioned charm of Main Street, Unionville, on which it is situated. It’s certainly a far cry from the old pumping station that once occupied the area. A true community project, the bandstand itself was funded by the Town of Markham, but residents fundraised to pay for the landscaping. These days, locals and visitors flock here to enjoy summer concerts or just to spend some quiet downtime outdoors (Fred Varley Parkette is just in behind). While it’s a popular setting for wedding photos, it’s also a great spot to either start or end a stroll along historic Main Street, with its unique shops and restaurants.

66 | York Life May June 2017

Photo by Jim Craigmyle

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IONIQ is the latest vehicle innovation and will be available at Agincourt Hyundai.

We believe that hybrid and electric vehicles should be exciting and fun to drive — that is the IONIQ philosophy. The all-new IONIQ is the world’s first vehicle to feature three electrified powertrain options — hybrid, electric and electric plus — built around a SUPERSTRUCTURE™ designed from the ground up to offer an exceptional driving experience and enhanced safety.

Sign up on www.agincourthyundai.com to be the first to receive information regarding this new state of the art vehicle and to arrange a test drive.

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