GOODLIFE SOUTH SIMCOE WINTER 2016

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GOODLIFEMAGAZINE.CA

GoodLife South Simcoe Edition

HOME &

Holiday EDITION

ENTERTAINING APPETIZERS • HOLIDAY SHOPPING • APRÉS IN ASPEN ALLISTON | TOTTENHAM | BEETON | THORNTON | MANSFIELD | ROSEMONT | EVERETT | UTOPIA

Kelly McCague Sales Representative

PROVIDING DEDICATED SERVICE IN SIMCOE AND DUFFERIN COUNTIES SINCE 1989! www.kellymccague.com kmccague@royallepage.ca Visit my website for additional photos and virtual tours.

GREEN BRIAR BUNGALOW

Located in golf course life style community this lovely 1+1 bdrm brick bungalow features inviting centre hall entrance leading to eat-in kitchen with walkout to generous sized deck, 2 bathrooms, main floor den, finished lower level.

Walking distance to golf course, restaurants, recreation & community centres.

Offered at $374,900. MLS# N3597814

Merry Christmas!

705.321.7295 OFFICE 705.435.3000

DIRECT

Wishing All of My Clients Past and Present A Very

RCR Realty, Brokerage INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

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COME VISIT OUR NEWLY REDESIGNED KITCHEN SHOWROOM

WE DESIGN. WE INSTALL. BUILD YOUR DREAM KITCHEN

with the confidence of Alliston Home Hardware - a name you trust and quality you know.

From a new countertop, to paint selection, to a full kitchen renovation, Alliston’s Kitchen Design Experts will take care of your needs every step of the way. Our collections offer thousands of choices to meet any lifestyle or taste preference - from Value to Luxury.

We Install It Right - Guaranteed. www.cabico.com

ALLISTON 4905 Dean Dr, Alliston, ON 705-435-5511

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 3

south simcoe

Publisher Dana Robbins Regional General Manager Simcoe - Muskoka - York Shaun Sauve Editors Lori Martin Elise Allain Advertising Sales Supervisor Angela Makaroff Graphic Design Luanne Turner Nick Bornino Jennifer Dallman Advertising Sales Representatives Beth Wink Shalani Ingham Jennifer Cameron Photography Contributions Ellie Kistemaker Mike Guilbault Photography Editorial Contributions Katherine Elphick Alaa Yassin Maija Hoggett Dawn Ritchie Holly Crawford Patti Vipond

169 Dufferin St., Alliston, ON L9R 1E6 Phone: 705-435-6228 Fax: 705-435-3342 For advertising inquiries please email amakaroff@simcoe.com or call 705-435-6228 ext. 222 DIGITAL EDITION: www.goodlifemagazine.ca follow us twitter.com/goodlifebarrie

Statements opinions and point of view expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or GoodLife South Simcoe.

GoodLife South Simcoe is published four times per year: Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.

For further information regarding all our products we invite you to call us at 705-435-6228

4 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

LARGE SELECTION LOW PRICES!

•PORCELAIN •NATURAL STONE •MOSAICS LARGE SELECTION LOW PRICES! The combinations are endless! We carry Porcelain, Marble, Limestone,Travertine, Onyx, Limestone, Ceramics, Mosaics and MUCH MORE!

Visit us today at our New BARRIE LOCATION

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contents 11 43 23 11 Gift Guide 23 In the Kitchen 30 Home Tour Feature 43 Find your perfect gift

with Karen Caughey

On the Right Course - Innisfil

Chris Stillar - a regular medium

6 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

55 46 Events 49 Portfolio On Tap 52 55 Holiday Sweets

Entertainment for the whole family right here in Simcoe County

Christina Luck

Holiday essentials

Sure to please!

58 Vintage Selections 60 Cowboys & Cocktails In the Crowd 66 Be prepared for anything

Skiing Aspen & Steamboat Colorado

CONTACT fundraising gala

s

ince 2010, Dr. Robert Wong and his team at The Tooth Doctors have been striving to provide every patient and their families with the highest quality dentistry available using modern dental techniques and equipment. Dr.Wong and his team are continuously upgrading their skills with the goal of providing the best care and knowledge for their patients.

The team at The Tooth Doctors are trained in the use of CEREC technology, a 3-D CADCAM computer that creates porcelain fillings in one appointment! Dr.Wong has further training in orthodontics and orthopedics and is a certified Invisalign provider and a member of the International Association of Orthodontics. Recently, Dr.Wong has completed post-grad-

Welcomes

DR. MASARAT SAQIB

uate courses at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.

The Tooth Doctors team has grown over the years and so has our community. To meet the increasing demand for their quality services,The Tooth Doctors are proud to welcome Dr. Masarat Saqib to their team. Dr. Saqib graduated dental school from The University of Toronto in 2013.

She enjoys oral surgery and also practices general dentistry. Dr. Saqib is currently welcoming new patients and has daytime, evening, and Saturday appointments available.

Left to Right; Front Row: Helen, Meaghan, Bailey, Jen, Christine.

Back Row: Janet, Dr.Wong, Dr. Saqib, Kasia.

22 Dunham Dr. Unit 104 Alliston, ON L9R 0G1 phone: (705)530-1600 website: toothdoctors.ca

nnisvale More Choice, More Space, More Service

editors note

Editor

Cemetery and Cr Crematorium Ltd.

✳

ELISEALLAIN

General Manager

Burial Lots for Caskets & Cremated Remains

With the biggest shopping season of the year just kicking off, we decided to showcase some great gift ideas available close to home. With pages of unique items for everyone on your list, you don’t need to go far to get your shopping wrapped up.

In addition to fantastic local finds, we also speak to the owners of Modern Market in Alliston to find out the secret to their success and how residents and visitors alike are enjoying the healthy food choices they offer.

Interior & Exterior Niche Walls

Take a tour of a spectacular property located in South Simcoe, backing onto one to the areas finest courses. We promise this home does not disappoint!

Finally, meet a local artist, take a trip to Aspen and read up on local medium Christ Stillar who is connecting people from all over with loved ones on the other side.

Enjoy some holiday recipes, check out our top vintage picks and more in this holiday issue of GoodLife!

Full Casket Mausoleums Someday is Today!

Give your loved ones peace of mind.

Plan today!

(705) 722-3121 7551 - 5TH SRD INNISFIL WWW.INNISVALECEMETERY.COM

8 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

from all the staff at GoodLife!

Elise Allain

goodlife@simcoe.com follow us@goodlifebarrie

✳✳

www.goodlifemagazine.ca

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Give the

Gift of Experience

La Belle Vie Skin Rejuvenation & Laser Clinic Full esthetic’s services, laser hair removal, photo facials, permanent makeup

check out these unique ideas for gift giving this holiday season

Dagrazia Ristorante Offering an evening of Italian Cuisine with freshly made pasta and italian desserts. Gift Certificates in any amount available.

Award winning Iine Award winning Spa

holiday GIFT 54 Victoria St. West, Alliston 705-435-8880 www.labellevieskin.com

20 Victoria St E Alliston 705-435-8868 www.dagrazia.com

Island Dish

Boston Pizza Alliston

A Taste of the Carribean right in Alliston Ontario.

Give the gift of the Spicy Carribean Islands with a Gift Card from Island Dish.

Buy a $50 Gift Card and take $10 for yourself. *Dine in only.

CERTIFICATES 705.434.0844 harvestspa.ca GAMA Pilates & Yoga Center Generate Alternatives to Manifest Ability Pain Management through movement & music Core strength, Breath & Mindfulness Drum Circles for all ages Community engagement to tame pain & trauma Hot Yoga also coming soon!

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Christmas Show & Sale

Woodington Lake Golf Club

Until Jan 6th, 2017

Give the Gift of Relaxation Choose from a relaxing Facial or Massage or choose one of our Christmas Spa Packages.

Either way you can be sure it will be the best gift!

Ginger Bread Pedicure Get festive this season with our deluxe pedicure.

With Christmas parties and special nights don’t forget to pamper your toes.

Treat yourself or give it as a gift!

35 Victoria St. E. Unit #5 (Town Square) Alliston 705-250-2700 www.thebeachhousespa.ca

10 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

Gifts, Box Office, Visual Arts, Photography, Jewelry, Cards, Textiles, Woodworking, Books, Pottery & more!

phone 705-435-2378 southsimcoeartscouncil.com info@southsimcoeartscouncil.com 41 Victoria St. E., Alliston

NIne Lives Boutique II Quality Consignment Clothing for Women & Teens

Christmas Packages Available Green Fees plus Cart $65+hst Value $85+hst Green Fees & Power Cart $100 +hst (Value $150) Plus Woodington Lake Divot Tool, Poker Chip Ball Market, Taylor Made Golf Glove & Taylor Made Sleeve of Tour preferred Golf Balls

7110 4 Line, Tottenham (905) 936-4343 www.woodingtonlake.com

Rustic Roots & Co. For Home, Garden & You! NAPKINS-Buy 3 Pkgs, get 4th FREE (of Equal or Lesser Value) CANDLES-Buy 4, Get the 5th FREE (of Equal or Lesser Value)

8 Victoria St E., Alliston (705) 435-5382 www.9livesboutique.ca Looking to find that Fashionista in your family something special Come in and buy a gift of Fashion.

ORNAMENTS & CHRISTMAS DÉCOR-Buy 4 Items, Get 5th FREE (of Equal or Lesser Value)

50 Main st. Jackson Plaza Beeton 905-729-3535 Rusticroots@rogers.com www.rusticrootsco.com

2016 Holiday

Gift Guide

Polar Bear Sweater $85

BARB’S CLOTHES 124 Victoria St. W., Alliston Casual Cape $49

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 11

Cotton Country Orange Sweater $89

Cardigan $145

BARB’S CLOTHES 124 Victoria St. W., Alliston

Faux Fur Jacket $160

Twistor Cordless Screwdriver $49.97 Kuradori Wine decanter aerator $6.99

ALLISTON HOME BUILDING CENTRE 4905 Dean Dr., Alliston

12 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

Coors Light Popcorn Maker $29.77

The Evergreen Store Canada’s Largest Christmas Store Complete source for Home decor, seasonal decorating and gifts.

Open 7 days a week

Canada’s Largest Choose & Cut Farm Open 7 days a week

Choose & cut.

Fresh cut trees, wreaths, garland & greenery.

Weekend Festivities

BEGINNING NOVEMBER 21 Santa Claus welcoming visitors in his home, magician, face painters, horse drawn wagon rides, bon fire and delicious country fare.

705.424.9719 6635 Simcoe Road 56 RR#1 Egbert, ON LOL 1L0 info@drysdales.ca www.drysdales.ca

Clock $70

Live Edge Dining Table $1,750

Iron Cage Chandelier $400

Blown Glass on Driftwood $90

BRAMPTON GALLERIES

Table lamp $90

73 Victoria St. E., Alliston

Teak Chest $415

EVERYTHING FOR BABIES 103 Victoria St. W., Alliston

Padraig Slippers $41.99 GroBag Sleep Sacks $54.99

14 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

Aden & Anais Swaddle Blankets $58.99 (4)

Stonz Bootz $43.99

The ultimate Italian cuisine in the heart of Tottenham

11 Mill St. E. Tottenham, ON

905.936.9111

www.timo.restaurant

Blanket Scarves $24.99-$34.99

Steve Madden Boots $120

CLOTHZ 45 Victoria St. E., Alliston

Boot warmers $8.99

CLOTHZ 45 Victoria St. East, Alliston, ON

Warm Buddies $42

Eminence Oil & Serums Discovery Set $95

Eminence Organic Sunscreen $59

16 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

BEACH HOUSE SPA 35 Victoria St. E., Alliston

45 Victoria St. E, Alliston, ON 705-250-4333 Open 7 Days a week Bamboo Products $24.98-$29.98

Follow clothz.alliston on Facebook and Instagram

T U N I C S W E AT E R 8 2 7 0 7 5 F L EG G I N G 8 2 2 5 0 3

Men's wear $24.99-$114

Come get Cozy with us this

Christmas!

Christmas & Home Décor, Candles, Clothing, Entertaining, Purses & Gifts

Rustic Roots & Co. For Home, Garden & You!

Manly Soap on a Rope $9.50

50 Main Street, Jackson Plaza, Beeton • 905.729.3535 rusticroots@rogers.com www.rusticrootsco.com

Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5

follow us on facebook

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 17

Pook reversible hats Adult $37.99; kids $26.99

Jersey Box $300

Mcintosh bone China mugs set/4 Paul Cezanne $49.99

PAPERMOON

47 Victoria St. W., Alliston

Assorted Ridley’s Games Room card games $11.99

Gift Cards $3.99

DETAILS

49 Victoria St. W., Alliston

Five-piece Wine kit $29.99 Artists Oil & Acrylic Mediums $9.50 and up

18 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

Fit For a

PRINCE OR PRINCESS! Garden Decor $64-$150

BRISCO

Custom Framing

FURNITURE & APPLIANCE LTD.

43 VICTORIA ST. W., ALLISTON 705-435-5678 • 800-473-0114 KenBrisco@bellnet.ca Store Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-6pm; Fri 9-8pm; Sat 9-5pm; Sun 12-4pm

Family Owned For 33 Years!

www.briscofurniture.com

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 19

Canadian freshwater pearls and jade $84.99

Italian Formed Handbag $215

Italian Suede Shawl $325

SASEK’S

588285 County Rd. 17, Mansfield Florence Italy hand-painted watches $72

Handcrafted from Turkey, Carpet Bags $135

Italian Leather Belts $69-$85

Honeybea Bumwarmer Skirt $58.99

Fox Door Stop $18

ColorTherapy colouring mug $22.99

Texting Gloves $14.98

Baba Scarves $34.98

THE OLDE STANTON STORE 936291 Airport Rd., Mansfield

Fudge $18/lb - Buy 1 get 1/2 free 20 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

Motorcycles $60-$75

Hudson’s Bay Socks $12

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in the kitchen|The Modern Market

• WITH

IN THE

Karen Caughey

BY ALAA YASSIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLIE KISTEMAKER

W

ith the growing trend of Canadians looking for healthier eating options, the need for The Modern Market was clear. The goal was to provide exactly that; healthy alternatives to the community that were not available within a close proximity, says owner Karen Caughey. I had the chance to chat with Caughey to find out more about The Modern Market.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 23

in the kitchen| The Modern Market

“

We wanted to bring something new to our town.

What led you to open The Modern Market and when did it all start?

Karen Caughey: When I left my job in Toronto, I was tired of commuting to the city. I wanted to start a business in my hometown of Alliston. My daughter and I brainstormed many ideas. We wanted to bring something new to our town. At first, we started thinking about organic fruits and vegetables, and then we thought about smoothies and healthy lunch options. From there, the idea expanded to what The Modern Market is today - a place to get everything you need for a really healthy lifestyle. We’re happy to have celebrated our first year in April 2016.

What’s on offer?

KC: We offer a variety of healthy fresh juices and smoothies as well as a lunch menu that consists of delicious wraps and soups. We also carry baked goods such as muffins, cookies and protein bars. These are all freshly baked in-house in addition to our products and produce section. We also started offering organic baskets, which consists of fresh ingredients to make the healthiest recipes at home. Customers choose the price point that works for their family’s size and we have it ready for them to pick up.

24 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

36 YEARS

F I N E D I N I N G . C A S UA L E L E G A N C E . H I S TO R I C C H A R M .

519·925·3627 M R S M I TC H EL L S .CO M / I N T H E H A M L E T O F V I O L E T H I L L O N H W Y 8 9 B E T W EEN H W Y 10 & A I R P O R T R D T U E S DAY– FR I DAY LU N CH 12– 2, T E A 2– 4, D I N N ER 5 – CLOSE / SAT U R DAY– SU N DAY B R U N CH 11– 2, T E A 2– 4, D I N N ER 5 – CLOSE

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Direct 905.724.0717 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 25

in the kitchen| The Modern Market

Caughey was happy to share one of The Modern Market’s secret recipes. “Our Energy Balls sell very well and we have had many requests for the recipe,” said Caughey.

THE MODERN MARKET ENERGY BALLS INGREDIENTS: 1 cup GF oats 1/3 cup honey ½ cup peanut butter ½ cup chocolate chips 1tsp vanilla 1 cup coconut flakes ¼ cup flax seed ¼ cup chia seed

PREPARATION: 1. Mix all ingredients, refrigerate for approximately 3 hours or overnight.

2. Roll into balls and serve.

26 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

“

Our Energy Balls sell very well and we have had many requests for the recipe,” said Caughey.

Fine Dining in a Casual Atmosphere THE WHISTLE STOP How have locals reacted to your business?

KC: There isn’t a lot of competition in Alliston. There are only a couple of places that make fresh lunches. So I’m lucky to be one of the first ones to open around here.

Why is your juice different from what’s available at other places?

KC: Our juices are all made daily and they only last in the fridge for three days since there is absolutely nothing added to them such as preservatives and so on. They’re strictly fruits and vegetable. We have 12 flavours of delicious smoothies and we’re happy to make substitutions to work with people’s unique tastes.

Why are cold-pressed juices and smoothies so popular these days?

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the beach house S PA

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KC: I think everyone is thinking about health. There’s so many documentaries out there now about what you’re putting into your body. And people like the taste of fresh cold-pressed juices and smoothies.

Our juice cleanses help clear the body of toxins and that’s why people tell us they feel great afterwards.

Tell me about The Modern Market’s cleansing juices?

KC: If you want to eat healthier and you haven’t been, it’s a healthy way to start.

Cleansing juices simply makes you feel fresh. We offer three and five-day cleanses.

For each day, you get six juice bottles that are 350 ml each and you only drink water in between. It’s tough at first but by the third day, you’ll start to feel the difference.

ALLISTON

85 Victoria St West (705) 435-6481

INNISFIL

HWY 400 at Innisfil Beach Road (705) 431-2500 www.herbertsboots.com GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 27

in the kitchen| The Modern Market

What are your most popular coldpressed juices and smoothies?

Any exciting future plans you’d like to share?

KC: The Energizer is very popular. It’s a green, cold-pressed juice that consists of celery, cucumber, apple and pear. Another one that is also a favourite is the Red Refresh, which has beets, green apple, carrot, lemon and ginger. People also love our Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie, made with banana, peanut butter, cacao powder and almond milk.

KC: We’re starting a fresh sandwich bar in the coming weeks. I think it will be nice to offer more choices for lunch. I also thought about expanding the seating area. I would love to be able to serve more as a café style.

It would be nice to give more guests the option to sit and enjoy.

Tell me more about your partnership with 4EverFit. KC: We loved this space when we found it but we knew it was too big for us. We wanted to partner with another business that could work well with ours. That’s when I met Margo Ghandy, owner of 4EverFit, a local one-on-one Personal Training gym in Alliston. Ghandy opened a small group class studio at our location, which offers various fitness classes such as Spin, Spin & Core, Yoga, Joga and outdoor boot camps in the summer.

To find out more about 4EverFit, check out www.4everfitfitness.com

28 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

You’ve got the ear of thousands of locals, anything else you like to add?

KC: I just hope your readers stop by to try it out. A lot of people think it’s a woman’s thing, but our baked goods and lunches are so good and filling, I’d like to see more men visit. I think there’s something here for everyone.

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Making your decorating dreams come true Since 1960

And Now A Second New Location To Serve You Even Better!

494 Veterans Drive Barrie www.irvinecarpetone.com | 514 Bayfield St., Barrie ON 705.728.5566 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 29

home tour|Innisfil

30 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

ON THE

RIGHT COURSE

By DaWn riTChie | PhoToGrAPhy By mike gUiLBaULT

A home is more than bricks and mortar. It’s the personal support system of a family—the place where lives are sustained and dreams are launched. Keeping a dream alive means holding it in your sights and Terry O’Brien seized on this when he built his 5000 square foot luxury Innisfil home within a ball’s throw of the eleventh fairway of The National Pines Golf Course.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 31

home tour|Innisfil

“It’s all about the view,”

32 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

says Terry, who grew up in a family supported by the game. Both his father and now his son are golf pros and this year Terry became the grand champion of the prestigious Mercedes Benz Classic, which garnered him an all-expense paid first class trip to the World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. You could say golf culture is in the family DNA. So having such a valuable resource directly adjacent to his own backyard was a dream come true.

“I’m a member of the club,” says Terry. “I walk out the back a few nights a week and chip and putt right on the course. The club is very good about letting me do that.”

Terry and his wife Sandy acquired the land with the exquisite view of the eleventh fairway in 2010, then spent months poring over magazines, clipping ideas they liked and planning their home as they conceived the overall design. Paramount in their minds was an openness to the home. “With no walls

“

I walk out the back a few nights a week and chip and putt right on the course.”

blocking you,” insists Terry. They wanted the same footprint on the lower level as well.

“One great big room. What I hate is when it’s broken up into little rooms,” says Terry.

The couple hired all the trades themselves and charged John Kennedy of Kenmore Builders with supervision. They were in the home within five months.

Entering the residence, you are immediately struck by the spaciousness and warmth of the dwelling. Earth tones and silvers and greys are the restful colour scheme.

A handsome stone wall on your right (Atlas Stone) leads down a gently curving staircase to the lower level. It is lit by whimsical iron twig sconces, which have been embedded in stone plaques, securing them flush to the variant levels of the rock. “We picked them up at a funky little shop on Horseshoe Valley Road,” remembers Sandy. These special little touches are evident throughout the home. Even the rails of the open treaded staircase are pleasingly carved and painted two-toned (Palermo Railing.)

Continue through the foyer and you are directly in the great room where your eye cannot help but fly to the room’s showstopper—a tremendous double propeller ceiling fan with palm leaf blades—a real statement piece. Sandy O’Brien saw a similar fan in a magazine and searched frenziedly until she finally found just what she was looking for at the California Fan Company. They immediately had the pricey fixture shipped in. “We wanted every room to have a defining focal point,” she explains. “Something that gives a visual punch to the area.” Looking past that, the verdant view of the golf course is in sight, filling the wall of windows with a picturesque scene.

The great room is designed for relaxing with a deep U-shaped lounge that faces a double-sided see-through fireplace with a 75-inch flat screen TV mounted above. Both are fixed in a stone feature wall which divides the primary living area from the main

Here is the team that can help you with all your insurance needs!

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705-435-6294 or 1-877-870-1888

Home • Auto • Life • investments CritiCAL iLLness • Business • fArm • trAveL

Wonder what your property is worth?

Call Mary!

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® 17 Victoria Street West, Alliston Phone: 705-435-6460 | Fax: 705-435-7869 www.taylorsjewellers.com Check us out on While supplies last. Valid only at participating retailers. Void where prohibited. Prices before taxes.*Limit 3 per customer.

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 33

home tour|Innisfil

A handsome stone wall upon entering the home leads down a gently curving staircase to the lower level.

34 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

“

the room’s showstopper—a tremendous double propeller ceiling fan with palm leaf blades—a real statement piece.”

The great room is designed for relaxing with a deep U-shaped lounge that faces a double-sided see-through fireplace with a 75-inch flat screen TV mounted above.

• I N T H E K I T C H E N F O R T H E H O L I D AY S WITH MASTER BAKER

Andrea Higgins Great everyday, perfect for the holidays Nothing says fall is here and Christmas is near like the smell of fresh-from-the-oven baked goods.

AndAnd while everyevery day day is a isgreat day for at Sigrid’s Bakery, mastermaster baker while a great daybaking for baking at Sigrid’s Bakery, Andrea the holiday withbrings it a number must-have bakerHiggins Andreasaid Higgins said theseason holidaybrings season with it aof number of must-have taste sensations. taste sensations.

Christmas Stollen Christmas Stollen topstops her her list. list. could is like a heavy butunique very unique in its” Andrea taste,” “You“You could say say it isitlike a heavy raisinraisin breadbread but very in its taste, Andrea said. “There are three different kinds and they all contain marzipan said.

“There paste). are three kinds and they all Stollen contain and marzipan (almond Thedifferent most popular is Dresdner it has (almond raisins, paste). most popular Dresdner Stollen it has Stollen raisins, contains finely chopped finelyThe chopped lemon is peels and rum.

The and Marzipan extra chunks marzipan andMarzipan the Poppy Seedcontains Stollen has light, homemade lemon peelsof and rum. The Stollen extraourchunks of marzipan seed Seed fillingStollen inside.has We also makehomemade a Diabeticpoppy safe Stollen. ” inside. andpoppy the Poppy our light, seed filling Sigrid’s, a traditional European bakeshop, specializing in German We also make a Diabetic safe Stollen.” baked-goods, has been in business for 31 years and was founded in 1983

Sigrid’s, a traditional in German Krautgartner. baked-goods,

by Andrea’ parentsEuropean Josef andbakeshop, Sigrid (thespecializing bakery’s namesake) left a for very31successful in Germany to by start a newparents life in has“My beenparents in business years andbakery was founded in 1983 Andrea’ Canada with my sister and me.

The idea was to bring a touch of Europe Josef and Sigrid (the bakery’s namesake) Krautgartner. “My parents left a very to Barrie. To this day, my parents still help out, but I took over the bakery successful Germany to start new life Canada with my and in 2004.bakery Today,inmy husband Brian,a and our inthree children helpsister me run me.the Thebusiness. idea wasBrian to bring touchhelp of Europe to Barrie.

To thisI couldn’t day, my run parents is aahuge and is my right hand. the him.over ” the bakery in 2004. Today, my husband Brian, and stillbusiness help out,without but I took ourYear-round, three children help me run the are business. a huge and isgoodies my right Sigrid’s counters filled Brian with istrays of help tempting ranging fromrundate squares without and pastries hand.

I couldn’t the business him.” to yummy cookies, butter creams and cream cake tortes. The bakery is particularly well known

Year-round, Sigrid’s (a counters are filledcustard with trays tempting goodies for Bienenstich yeast-based filledof cake topped with ranging honey andbutter Florentines!

Othercream top fromglazed date almonds), squares andhomemade pastries tobreads, yummy buns cookies, creams and sellers include mambo dry hazelnut rum (a balls and the cake tortes.The bakery is particularly wellcake, knownbuttercream for Bienenstich yeast-based ever-popular Swiss Mountain rye bread. For the holidays, Sigrid’s also custard cake gingerbread topped with houses. honey glazed almonds), homemade breads, makesfilled delicious buns and Florentines! Other top sellers include mambo dry hazelnut cake, rolls – marzipan “Another popular Christmas is Canache buttercream rum ballsitem andatthe ever-popular Swiss Mountain rye bread.wrapped For the around a Ganash that is made with couverture (pure high grade dark holidays, Sigrid’s also makes delicious gingerbread houses. chocolate), whipped cream and Kirschwasser (cherry liquid),” Andrea said.

“Another popular item atfor Christmas is Canache rollsalso – marzipan around For those looking gift ideas, Sigrid’s stocks wrapped a number of German that products Marzipanbrote (almond bread), Mozart a Ganash is madeincluding with couverture (pure high grade dark chocolate), truffels, Niederegger and Schluckwerder.“Our shelves whipped cream and Kirschwasser (cherry liquid),” Andrea said. are lined with various European specialty items such and feel free to top off your

experience a treat, or aalso savory soup & Sandwich on a Forshopping those looking for giftwith ideas, Sigrid’s stocks a number of German homemade bread. ” products including Marzipanbrote (almond bread), Mozart truffels, Niederegger andThe Schluckwerder.“Our shelves are lined with variouspeanut-free, European specialty items bakery also sells various 100-per-cent gluten-free andanddairy-free products, diabetic cookies and cheesecake, as such feel free to top off your shopping experience with a treat,as or awell savory gluten-free bread in plain, sunflower and raisin. soup & Sandwich on a homemade bread.”

Happy Holidays from all of us at Sigrid’s!

The bakery also sells various 100-per-cent peanut-free, gluten-free and dairy-free products, diabetic cookies and cheesecake, as well as gluten-free bread in plain, sunflower and raisin.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Sigrid’s!

SI IGRID’S CAFE SIGRID’S & FINE BAKERY

10 Ross Street, Barrie 705-726-0121 www.sigridsbakery.com

home tour|Innisfil

floor master. Mason, John Watson, also built special niches into the brickwork to hold some of the O’Brien’s favourite carved wildlife sculptures. “We live in this home,” says Sandy, who flops down on the sofa and stretches out. “We wanted a cozy sofa we could kick back on and put our feet up to watch TV. Our house is a friendly home.

It’s not about being formal, but about being comfortable.”

The open concept kitchen immediately

36 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

behind offers counter seating and a commodious cabinet bar which has proved handy for entertaining. The room recently accommodated a hundred people for a milestone birthday celebration and the long bar provided easy access to libations for all revellers.

North Country Floors was the choice for the hardwood flooring installation, which runs end to end on the entire main floor and Cartier Kitchens was chosen for the under

lit cabinetry, which has an espresso finish with contrasting cream island. “Some of the cabinets here are for storage and some for viewing,” explains Sandy, who believes furnishings should be both practical and artistic in nature. Fluted pillars dress all the corners with tasteful Star Beach granite bump outs that follow their line (Artistic Stone.)

The rounded granite outcroppings were an extremely expensive feature according to the O’Briens, coming in at $1000 each per,

CONCERNED ABOUTYOUR

HEARING? but they do bring a sophistication to the look. A dramatic ventilation hood (Vent-AHood) over the Jenn Air range completes the tableaux.

Another financially exorbitant, but crucial extra for Sandy, was the angled dining room off the kitchen with its magnificent southerly view of the golf course and walkout to the long Kayu Batu deck. Both the builder and Terry balked at the extra cost of angling the extension away from the kitchen. “I think we’ll cut this,” the men said, but Sandy threw down the gauntlet, “Then cut the whole house,” she retorted. Today Terry concedes she was dead right and the structure is the richer for it. Instead of a traditional boxy layout, there’s a slight change in orientation as you move through the house which offers an elegant dining spot apart from the great room, while still retaining the open concept approach. “I won,” chuckles Sandy. “Of course,” smirks Terry.

The dining room is clean and svelte with a turned leg dining table and chairs originating from the Art Shoppe in Toronto. The buffet, also from The Art Shoppe, is flanked by two gorgeous Miro lithographs. Dining room chandeliers (and matching kitchen pendants) are from Litemode.

The main floor offers two master bedroom with spa ensuites. Both enjoy heated floors, marble tile, granite countertops, vessel sinks, rainshowers and Maax tubs (Bathworks.) Two more bedrooms are found are the lower level that share a three-piece bath.

When they originally built the home Terry wanted to ensure that his elderly mother had a main floor bedroom without stairs to negotiate when she came to visit. But, today it’s the many grandchildren and children that are enjoying all the perks. Downsizing is simply out of the question for this happy couple.

The lower level of the home houses the official man cave where Terry enjoys his many sports programs. The bar here employs the same stone facing as the upper level fire-

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home tour|Innisfil

place and feature wall. Terry found a fullsized billiards table at Saunders Recreation and Fitness with a red felt top that was on consignment. The company changed out the felt to a tasteful beige that matches their colour scheme.

Walkouts to the kidney shaped pool and it’s festive Tiki hut bar are accessed from the recreation room and also from upper level stairs. Terry purchased the pool locally and had a friend with heavy equipment do much of the excavation before Leading Edge Earthworks finished the job. Big D Landscaping handled all the flagstone decking. Outdoor furnishings from Bradford Garden Centre.

38 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

“We spend a lot of time outside,” says Terry leading the way to the home’s serene outdoor oasis. “We always have one really good pool party every year.” But what he and wife Sandy like best is the privacy and pure lushness of the scenery the location affords them, reminding that although they love the game, golfing season only lasts from May until October. “There’s always deer and wild turkeys on the course when no one’s playing,” says Terry. “We’re very lucky. From November until May 1st this is ours, all ours.”

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MAPLETON MILLS, SCHOMBERG 4141 MAPLETON MILLS, SCHOMBERG Welcome home! beautiful, bungalow is a perfect commuter location at Hwys Welcome home!

This This beautiful, raisedraised bungalow is a perfect commuter location at Hwys 9&9& 27. Check out fantastic, the fantastic, concept features 10’ ceilings!

Get ready 27. Check out the openopen concept mainmain floor floor that that features 10’ ceilings!

Get ready to to entertain the kitchen complete stainless appliances, cabinets entertain in thein kitchen that that comescomes complete with with stainless appliances, dark dark cabinets and aand a breakfast bar. combined The combined living/dining area boasts hardwood gas fireplace breakfast bar. The living/dining area boasts hardwood floors,floors, a gas afireplace and aand walka walk the deck.

Be prepared in love the spectacular landscaped andlarge the large out tooutthetodeck.

Be prepared to falltoinfalllove with with the spectacular landscaped yard yard and the garden Escape the master bedroom complete 3 pc ensuite and walk in closet. garden shred.shred.

Escape in theinmaster bedroom complete with with a 3 pca ensuite and walk in closet.

The The beautifully finished includes a family bedroom, (could be a bedroom), beautifully finished lowerlower levellevel includes a family room,room, bedroom, officeoffice (could be a bedroom), eat eat in kitchen, 4 pc bath - a perfect spotextended for extended in laws.

Shows 10+++. in kitchen, and 4and pc bath - a perfect spot for familyfamily or in orlaws.

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WENDY SMALL WENDY SMALL Representative SalesSales Representative

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1 Bedrooms, 3 Baths • 3• +3 1+ Bedrooms, 3 Baths • Private Master Suite • Private Master Suite • Main Floor Family Room • Main Floor Family Room • Large Town (111' x 199') • Large In In Town LotLot (111' x 199') • $749,000 • $749,000 LINDA FURTADO*** LINDA FURTADO*** Broker of Record Broker of Record

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This Cookstown property is lovingly maintained This Cookstown property is lovingly maintained andand hashas many updates being a newly renovated family room many updates oneone being a newly renovated family room andand laundry room which is perfect growing family.

Enjoy laundry room which is perfect for for thethe growing family.

Enjoy evening relax deck overlooking gorgeous thethe evening andand relax on on thethe deck overlooking gorgeous perennial gardens trees.

This lovely property offers perennial gardens andand trees.

This lovely property offers a a fantastic garage/workshop which started a bee-keeping fantastic garage/workshop which started lifelife as aasbee-keeping shed allows many possible uses.

Call Ingrid today shed andand allows for for many possible uses.

Call Ingrid today to to property. $495,000. tourtour thisthis property. $495,000.

ATTRACTIVE GREEN BRIAR BUNGALOW ideally ATTRACTIVE GREEN BRIAR BUNGALOW ideally located within a short walk course, restaurants, located within a short walk to to golfgolf course, restaurants, recreation & community centres.

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Conveniently designed with 2 baths, walk-out private deck, 2 gas fireplaces, with 2 baths, walk-out to to private deck, 2 gas fireplaces, majority windows replaced, interior garage entrance majority of of windows replaced, interior garage entrance door, eat-in kitchen,1+1 bedrms more.

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40 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

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ake a tour through this charming and unique century home located in the desirable community of Cookstown. This well maintained and updated property features a gorgeous private location with a spacious deck overlooking the backyard.

Inside you will see a family friendly layout including a fabulous update bath, and gorgeous hardwood in many of the main living areas, as well as walkout basement for room to grow.

New windows, electrical, roof and eaves-troughs make this home move in ready.

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This East John Street home is currently listed at $495,000 with Ingrid McNeill of Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty. For a personal tour please call 647-212-5798. MLS#N3620778

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 41

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Chris stillar A Regular Medium By paTTi ViponD

C

hris Stillar calls his ability to relay messages from the deceased to their living loved ones a skill, not a gift.

He doesn’t see spirits. Their messages come to him as images, audible statements and feelings. However, whatever a spirit wants to tell, he will accurately convey to the people waiting to hear it.

Stillar believes his job is not to censor the message to accommodate what the receiver can handle or what they want to hear.

“I think what people like at my live shows or during readings at my office is that I try to keep it real and keep grounded about it,” says Stillar, now in his 21st year of helping and comforting bereaved people through passing on messages from their late loved ones. “I think people like the normalcy of my life.”

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 43

“

Did I believe it? I wasn’t sure, but I was shown that I would write a book or two, speak in front of crowds and be on TV and radio.

The long-time Alliston resident is a happily married father of four and grandfather of two whose services have been life-changing for hundreds of people including international clients who call in for readings from places like India, England and Africa. The current waiting list for a reading is 12 months, a situation achieved largely by word of mouth. Others discovered the medium through his website, television show Seeking Spirit on YouTube, or by picking up his book Pennies From Heaven: A Medium’s Two Cents on Life and Death.

When he’s not working, Stillar doesn’t talk about or promote his mediumship.

“As a medium you’ve got a bull’s eye on your back in many ways,” says Stillar, who used to work in advertising and marketing for newspapers and owned a retail business. “I’m okay with healthy scepticism and encourage people to have it. At the opposite end are people who believe so much that it doesn’t matter what you tell them, they believe it. As far as clients go, I like people in the middle. They just have to have a need for a reading.

That’s the majority of people.”

Stillar often has bereaved parents sitting across from him in his quiet, comfortable office. A couple whose daughter died by suicide a year ago arrived recently in hope of hearing from her. The daughter came through and showed Stillar a hand-crafted wooden bench and 44 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

repeatedly thanked her parents. The father had done woodworking, but had made nothing for anyone since his daughter passed. Then Stillar heard ‘service club’.

The father said he didn’t belong to a club, but the wife exclaimed, ‘It’s the bench’ the one the Lion’s Club had given to them two weeks earlier with their daughter’s name engraved on it.

“The daughter was fighting to get her message across about the bench that was made for her,” explains Stillar. “The message served a few purposes for the couple, but they know their daughter referenced something that happened two weeks ago when she’s been gone a year.

That’s the validation people like when they come to a legitimate medium because it brings peace of mind.”

Stillar’s career as a medium had a two-part origin. In 1994, he was hospitalized with a sudden brain condition that blocked his recognition of his family and colleagues.

The condition was never diagnosed and he recovered.

Then, in 1996, his beloved grandmother died. Soon after, he started mediating without fully understanding it.

Then, things started happening. “”It is such a hard thing to describe, even to this day, that I wouldn’t know how to describe it,” he says. “I sensed a person standing behind me in my office, but I wasn’t scared. Thoughts and impressions came to me, words and statements that I knew didn’t originate with

me. From there, it was something I developed and worked on fairly quickly to understand what it was.”

The progression from private discovery of this ability to a full-time career as a medium came gradually, but he had an idea about the future trajectory of events.

“It sounds crazy, but I knew shortly after it started where it was heading,” Stillar explains. “Did I believe it? I wasn’t sure, but I was shown that I would write a book or two, speak in front of crowds and be on TV and radio. When I was younger, I was paralyzed with fear about public speaking, Once I was talking about something I believed in, it came naturally to me. You worry a little over what people may think, but you get over that very quickly.”

The decision to stop working at the Borden Citizen newspaper and take up fulltime mediumship came suddenly one day after years of seeing clients afterhours and on weekends.

“I drove to Tim Horton’s to pick up coffee for the office,” he recalls. “I was on my way back, sitting at the lights, when one of my guides showed me an image of a toddler holding onto a coffee table and walking around. I suddenly heard, ‘if you don’t let go, how do you know if you can do it?’ Then I saw the toddler walk away. I went into the office, called my wife, Kim, and said I’m giving notice. She said, ‘I think it’s time’. Three months later, on Sept. 4, 2003, I left and never looked back. I had an office of my own in Alliston at that point so I could branch out and start.”

Content with his family and working life, Stillar is happy to continue helping his clients, calling the people he has met through his work ‘phenomenal’. He and his wife met a couple who would become their best friends when they came for a reading after their son died in 2004. His goal remains to be the best and most consistent medium possible.

Through working as a medium, Stillar is certain about a few things: your departed loved ones are always alright; when your time to die comes up, you go, and the secret of life is simple.

“The secret of life is love,” says Stillar.

“Do the best you can and love the people in your life. That’s the secret of life. Love, support each other and try to be happy.”

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M06300 (0316) GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 45

events|things to do

10 THINGS TO DO in our area

3

SANTA CLAUSE PARADE DECEMBER 3 BEETON

46 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

1

Dance the night away. The skyliners Big Band is returning to the Gibson Centre, 63 Tupper st. W., Alliston, Dec. 2. skyliners’ Big Band is a favourite with both dancing and listening audiences. Comprised of 17 top musicians and dazzling vocalist Maria Branje, the band performs all of the big band era favourites by Miller, Dorsey, Basie, Ellington, Kenton as well as more contemporary hits. This performance will focus on some holiday favourites. gibsoncentre.com

2

Winter Fest. Enjoy a day at Winter Fest, being held at Alliston Community Christian school, 4428 Adjala-Tecumseth Townline, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a bouncy castle, game booths, craft table, face painting, kids market, silent auction, pancake breakfast, soup and buns, pies and more. 705-434-2227

3

Catch up with santa. The Beeton santa Claus parade is Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. stick around the downtown area afterwards for Christmas in the Village activities. www.btbia.ca

4

a seussified Christmas Carol. The Gibson Theatre school cast is thrilled to be performing everyone’s favourite holiday classic with a seussified twist at the Gibson Centre, 63 Tupper st. W., Alliston.

There are three performances: Dec. 9 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Dec. 10 at 10:30 a.m. www. gibsoncentre.com

5

Learn the art of drumming. Drum Tao, the Martial Art of Drumming is at Casino rama for three shows Jan. 23 and 24.

This Japanese drum and dance ensemble has performed for more than six million spectators worldwide. Combining music and dance to reflect Japanese tradition, but also incorporating Korean, Maori, and indonesian influences, songs feature both traditional and modern compositions created by members of the troupe. casinorama.com

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

6

eat something delicious. Barrielicious returns from Jan. 22 to Feb. 7.

Diners can try a wide array of culinary experiences. A prix fixe menu between $15 and $25 per person will be offered at each location. barrielicious.com

7

see an idol. scotty McCreery rolls into Casino rama Jan. 29. The former American idol contestant will perform his hits see you Tonight, i Love you This Big and The Trouble with Girls. Tickets start at $32. showtime is 9 p.m. casinorama.com

8

get a little country. Casino rama welcomes Tanya Tucker Jan. 30. The country star is best known for Delta Dawn, strong Enough to Bend and Would you Lay With Me (in a Field of stone). Tickets start at $22. showtime is 8 p.m. casinorama.com

9

spend time at the theatre. south simcoe Theatre presents Weekend Comedy Feb. 4 to 21 at the south simcoe Theatre. The play focuses on the Brewster family, descended from the Mayflower, but now composed of insane homicidal maniacs. southsimcoetheatre.com

COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2017

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10

Laugh out loud. snL and 30 rock alumni Tracy Morgan hits Casino rama Feb. 27 as part of his Picking Up The Pieces tour. This show is for mature audiences. Tickets start at $37 and showtime is 8 p.m. casinorama.com

Visit us today: 514 Bayfield Street 705-728-5566 • 494 Veterans Drive 705-728-5567 • www.irvinecarpetone.com GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 47

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artist profile | Christina Luck

Christina LUCK Artist

Light Up

Creating community on canvas

By Leigh Blenkhorn

C

ookstown artist Christina Luck uses her talent to connect to her community.

The town gives her material to explore in her work, and she gives back through community projects.

“My husband Hans Niemann and I moved to a very old house in Cookstown in 2005 and built a new studio,” she said. “Village life is often a subject and I try to find an interesting point of view.”

Living in the town even led Luck to find a new subject to work with.

“I started painting dogs because they seemed to outnumber human residents, and it seemed like a good way to connect with my neighbours.”

Luck said she doesn’t ever remember a time when she wasn’t interested in art.

Growing up, she was always writing stories and being creative.

The Cleaners

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 49

artist profile|Christina Luck

“

I started painting dogs because they seemed to outnumber human residents, and it seemed like a good way to connect with my neighbours.”

Polly Wakerobin, The Scamp

Peter “Pudge” Stockton

Fraggle & Homer

“When I was in Grade 6, we lived in Ottawa and my mother signed me up for Saturday art classes at the National Gallery,” she said. “I have strong memories of the art I saw while walking through the building to get to the class.”

Luck earned a bachelor of fine arts from York University.

“I loved being in Toronto and all it had to offer, and my classes really opened my eyes to the whole world of art,” she said. “I also liked being at a university and taking interesting courses outside my major. I took Russian language and literature courses.

The studios I found most exciting were photography, printmaking and experimental directions.”

Following university, Luck discovered that her passion was painting and made it the focus of her practice. Though, she still French Shoes

50 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

dabbles in other forms.

“I work primarily in acrylic, but like to sketch in oil, and do pen and ink drawings for little books I make,” she said. “Although lately I have been drawing on my iPad quite a bit and I find it’s affecting composition and colour in my paintings … in a good way, I think.”

Luck admits it can take her a long time to officially get started on a piece.

She likes to explore a body of work with an overall theme, and it can take her years to think it all through. While she doesn’t figure out every detail of a painting before putting brush to canvas, she said she has to have a thread to follow.

“For example, I had two solo exhibitions at David Kaye Gallery in Toronto that dealt with my neighbourhood as the setting for a play, and my neighbours as actors playing

roles,” she said. “My last solo show was a series of small still life paintings of ordinary things that became significant now that I was turning 60. The paintings themselves were very simply and quickly painted but deciding which mundane things held the most meaning took a lot of thought.”

Luck likes to get out of her studio and get involved with interesting projects in her community.

Most recently, she was invited to join a group of aboriginal and non-aboriginal artists from Simcoe County for Call to Action #83.

“The exhibition was a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report, which calls for artists to work together to inspire acts of reconciliation,” she said. “The work was completed in June and is now travelling to various galleries with the hope that artists in other communities will create their own circle.”

The exhibition has already had two showings in Toronto. It is set to hit the Art Gallery of Northumberland in Cobourg in January, the MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie in June and the Aurora Cultural Centre in the fall of 2017.

“It’s been a chance to learn, connect and re-think, and I feel lucky to be a part of it,” she said.

Luck has also been involved with the South Simcoe Theatre since 2000. She has been designing most of the sets for the past 10 years.

“Designing for the stage changed how I thought about the representation of space and light in my paintings, as well as bringing back my interest in narrative and teaching me to work collaboratively,” she said. “I just take a consultative roll at SST now, stepping back to focus on my studio practice.”

Luck also teaches art to children and adults at the MacLaren Art Centreand implements community art projects for Cookstown including the Creative Chair Challenge, and Mystery Murals.

Luck is represented by David Kaye Gallery in Toronto, and many of her paintings can be seen on the gallery’s site at davidkayegallery.com. She has also shown at Double Door Studios & Gallery in Anten Mills. For more information, visit christinaluck.com.

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on tap

HOLIDAY essentials

BY ROBIN LEBLANC

One of the fantastic things about beer is how varying it can be. We’ve reached a point now where there is a perfect beer for every shade of fancy you may have and there is no other season that showcases that better than winter. There’s the dark and boozy, the light and crisp, and even beers that are right in between those two. Some are good for sharing, and some are perfect for those times where you just need a break from all the festivities the season brings. So with that, here are a few selections that are essential to making your holiday season a comfortable and joyous one. shinniCkeD sToUT muskoka Brewery ABV: 5.2% LCBo#484972 (single), 474361 (survival Pack) For the true Muskoka winter experience, this recent release from Muskoka Brewery in Bracebridge is made with Lumberjack medium roast coffee from Muskoka roastery. Where some stouts go big, bold, and boozy, shinnicked (meaning “to be numbed or paralysed with cold”) runs on the lighter side of things in regards to mouthfeel, with hints of chocolate and a beautiful well-roasted coffee character that creates a warming feeling that spreads throughout your body. This beer is perfect for when you’re just coming indoors after shovelling the drive or running an errand. shinnicked stout originally made its debut in Muskoka’s current Winter survival Pack, but will have a standalone release at the start of December.

CLUTCh redline Brewhouse ABV: 4.8% LCBo#461756 i find this beer is a lifesaver if you are one of the true heroes of the holidays who spend all their time in the kitchen preparing unforgettable meals for their loved ones. stouts and other dark beers are great, but if you’re in a piping hot kitchen you want something cold and crisp to drink. Enter Clutch Pale Ale from redline Brewery. With bright hits of grapefruit, orange, peach, and pine in the flavours, this favourite from Barrie’s youngest brewery is several steps above the typical pale ale and is sure to quench your thirst.

WinTer Weiss muskoka Brewery ABV: 5% LCBo#474361 (survival Pack) Joining shinnicked stout in Muskoka Brewery’s annual Winter survival Pack is a dark beer for those who like their tastes a little on the lighter side. Acting as the winter sibling to the much-loved summer Weiss, Winter Weiss provides the flavours of banana and clove with a light mouthfeel, but adds a delicate, slightly warming note of warm toffee. This beer is perfect in those times when a stout seems like too much and a lighter beer just won’t do.

52 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

sT. BernarDUs aBT 12 Brouwerij st. Bernardus ABV: 10% LCBo#346197 This one isn’t often picked as a holiday favourite, but it’s become a tradition for me to bring out a bottle of st.

Bernardus Abt 12 this time of year and share it with my family, often over good food and good conversation.

This Belgian brewery has been creating world-class beers since its founding in 1945 and in no other beer is this more evident than in their fabulous quadrupel, with flavours of dark fruits, dates, bread, and rich caramel – creating an almost religious experience for your tastebuds.

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inViCTUs soLera ageD rUssian imperiaL sToUT Flying monkeys Brewery ABV: 17.5% LCBo#442673 During the cold months, nothing really quite beats a dark and boozy beer that you can sip quietly in the comfort of your nice and toasty home. Keeping that feeling in mind, the new release from Barrie-based Flying Monkeys Brewery, the invictus solera Aged russian imperial stout, is guaranteed to get the job done.

The aroma is very much on the boozy side, but the taste is a warming dance of sweet milk chocolate, port, and stone fruits that come out more as it naturally warms in the glass. it’s a beer that will definitely help you wind down, but at a whopping 17.5% ABV, you may want to share this one.

Robin LeBlanc is an award-winning beer writer and owner of thethirstywench.com.

She is also the coauthor of The Ontario Craft Beer Guide, which – hey – would make a perfect gift this season.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 53

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feature|Holiday Sweets

SPICED APPLE FRITTERS -recipe courtesy Foodland Ontario; ontario.ca/foodland These crispy fritter bites are a mouthful of apple delight! They’re best eaten right away but can be enjoyed cold or reheated. Makes about 3 dozen.

4 cups vegetable oil 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp each baking soda and salt 1-1/4 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp ground cloves 1 ontario egg

SWEETS

1 cup buttermilk 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter, melted 1/2 tsp vanilla 2 cups small diced peeled ontario apples (such as empire or Crispin) 1/2 cup icing sugar, sifted 1. in large saucepan or deep-fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat to about 360°F on candy thermometer. reduce heat when temperature is reached. (if not ready to start frying, remove pot from stove.)

2. in medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.

3. in large bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, 1 tbsp oil and vanilla. stir in apples. stir in flour mixture just until moistened.

4. Using small ice cream scoop or spoons, gently drop about 1 tbsp of batter into hot oil. Cook about seven fritters at a time, for four minutes, or until lightly browned. if needed, touch gently on top to flip. With slotted spoon, remove to paper towel-lined plate. Cut one fritter open to check if cooked through and adjust time or temperature. After draining about one minute, dust with icing sugar.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 55

feature|Holiday Sweets APPLE GINGERBREAD PUDDING CAKE

-recipe courtesy Foodland Ontario; ontario.ca/foodland This warm cake has the rich flavours of gingerbread on top of apples and a caramel sauce. you could also use pears in place of apples.

Cake: 4 ontario apples, peeled and very thinly sliced 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1-1/4 tsp baking soda 1-1/2 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp each salt and ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp each ground allspice and ground cloves 1 cup fancy molasses 3/4 cup water 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 ontario egg 3/4 cup lightly packed brown sugar, preferably dark Topping: 1-1/3 cups hot water 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Whipped cream and ground nutmeg (optional) 1. Lightly butter a 13- x 9-inch baking dish. scatter apples evenly in dish.

2. in medium bowl, whisk flour with baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, allspice and cloves. in large measuring cup, whisk molasses with water.

3. in large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter with sugar until creamy. Beat in egg. on medium speed, beat in flour in three additions, alternately with molasses mixture, ending with flour mixture. scrape down sides as needed. spoon over apples; gently smooth to cover. sprinkle with brown sugar. in large measuring cup, stir hot water with butter. slowly pour over cake; but don’t stir it in. Bake in 350°F oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.

Let stand on wire rack 10 minutes before serving.

Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg, if using.

56 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

THE BEST QUICK LOAF WITH CRUMBLE-TOP

-recipe courtesy Foodland Ontario; ontario.ca/foodland This moist and lightly sweetened quick loaf is fun to wrap up in pretty packaging – perfect as a hostess gift or to bring to a teacher or neighbour. The hardest part is deciding which variation to make, apple, pear or carrot, full-size or mini?

LoaF: 2 cups (500 mL) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (125 mL) packed brown sugar 2 tsp (10 mL) cinnamon 1-1/2 tsp (7 mL) baking powder 1/2 tsp (2 mL) each baking soda and salt 1/4 tsp (1 mL) ground nutmeg 1 ontario Egg, beaten 1 cup (250 mL) buttermilk 1/3 cup (75 mL) butter, melted 2 tsp (10 mL) vanilla 1 cup (250 mL) diced ontario Apples (unpeeled) 1/3 cup (75 mL) toasted chopped walnuts CrUmBLe-Top: 1/4 cup (50 mL) each all-purpose flour, large-flaked rolled oats, packed brown sugar and chopped walnuts 1/4 cup (50 mL) butter, melted 1/2 tsp (2 mL) cinnamon 1. in small bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, walnuts, butter and cinnamon; set aside.

2. in large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt and nutmeg. Make well in centre; add egg, buttermilk, butter and vanilla. sprinkle with apples and walnuts; stir just until combined.

3. spread into parchment paper-lined or buttered 9- x 5-inch (23 x 12 cm) metal loaf pan, smoothing top. sprinkle with crumble-top. Bake in 350°F (180°C) oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until tester inserted in centre comes out clean. Let cool in pan on rack for 15 minutes. Turn out onto rack to cool completely.

VariaTions: pear-pecan: substitute pecans for walnuts. in loaf, reduce cinnamon to 1/2 tsp (2 mL) and add 1-1/2 tsp (7 mL) ground ginger. switch apples with ontario Pears.

Carrot-Walnut: substitute 1 cup (250 mL) shredded ontario Carrots for apples. mini-Loaves: Use three approximately 5- x 3-inch (12 x 8 cm) loaf pans and bake 20 to 25 minutes.

Tip: Wrap in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. or, place into freezer-safe bags and freeze up to 3 months.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 57

feature|Vintage Selections

HOLIDAY READY Thoughts from our expert on being prepared for anything

I

BY MICHAEL PINKUS

t’s hard to believe the holidays are right around the corner. What happened to that long, hot summer? Now I sit out on the back deck and it’s dark far too soon.

Winter is definitely coming ... the holidays will soon be here and the stress of finding just the right gift will weigh heavily on our collective shoulders.

It’s not just the gifts, it’s all the other stuff that comes with the holidays: parties; simple get-togethers (which never are); dinners; open houses; and the list goes on and on – family, friends, the office. It gets crazy how many people we come into contact with and how much we think about what ‘the right thing’ is to give someone.

A large part of many holiday events is about beverages: there are before-dinner drinks, after-dinner drinks, during-dinner drinks; there’s also New Year’s Eve to think about, and of course there’s gift giving.

I’m here to lend a hand so your stress factor should be significantly lowered. Below is a list of some holiday favourites, both new and old, that should really put you in everybody’s good graces. I’ll offer up some New Year’s bubbly and a couple of really good dinner wines, plus some special gift giving wines you’ll have to search out but they will be so worth it, and then there are a couple of interesting desserts that aren’t the standard icewine. So get ready to make your list and check it twice ...

58 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

For New Year’s Eve, sparkling doesn’t have to be expensive – nor does it have to be champagne to be good.

Featherstone 2014 premium Cuvee rosé ontario ($29.95 LCBo#450700) For a first effort, it’s decidedly a pleasant bubbly that has gotten better with time in bottle; delicate raspberry and lime notes (¬¬¬¬) with nicely balanced acidity. ((¬¬¬¬¬¬¬) Chateau D’eternes saumur Brut France ($15.15 LCBo#429696) hard to believe the price of this traditional method bubble from the saumur region of France (Loire), delicate bubbles with citrus and fresh biscuit notes. (****)

Special gifts – either for you or for that special someone – these Ontario wines are sure to please (order these wines on-line or call the winery). hillebrand/Trius 2012 grand reserve ontario ($55, winery only) Grand red is the pinnacle of Trius winemaking, and in 2012 it really was just that.

The layers in this wine are incredible with the fruit and spice playing well together along with some intense mocha and cherry there’s a smokiness that makes its way in there too; this is one to lie down for a decade or more. (¬¬¬¬ ½) pillitteri 2012 exclamation Commendatore ontario ($50, winery only) A wine named in honour of Gary Pillitteri, who achieved the title of Commander of the star of solidarity by the italian government. A real mouth-filling affair that’s pretty from nose to palate to finish. Fruity with loads of plum, black cherry and raspberry plus the addition of vanilla and cinnamon on the finish. it’s well-rounded and totally satisfying, plus it has great potential for the future. (¬¬¬¬½)

Dessert ... ice is nice but sometimes there are other cool drinks that will satisfy your sweet-tooth.

Torres Floralis moscatel oro spain ($15.95 LCBo#642173) Floral, orange peel, almond, candied citrus peel; a stunning achievement in a dessert wine you won’t soon forget. ((¬¬¬¬+) Fratello hazelnut Liqueur italy ($35.95 LCBo#455758) For those who dig the taste of hazelnuts this is for you, heck even if you don’t you’ve gotta try this stuff; it’s creamy, it’s smooth and it’s a pure delight for after din+ ner sipping. (¬¬¬( )

Red for dinner? Pinot Noir is appropriate this time of year but sometimes you need to walk on the wild side.

Two hands 2015 gnarly Dudes shiraz Australia ($29.95 LCBo#660043) you’ll totally dig the fruit-spice mix that leans dark-fruited, it’s delicious all on its own; grab a glass and try to stop sipping. (¬¬¬¬) masi 2012 Campofiorin ($21.95 LCBo#155051) not every vintage is considered five-star at Masi, but 2012 was, and what’s more, they are very stingy about passing out those stars, so what you’ll get in the bottle will be worth every penny. This is the original ripasso from italy ... and still one of the best. ((¬¬¬¬+)

Michael Pinkus is a multi-award winning wine writer, past-president of the Wine Writers’ Circle of Canada and creator of the Grape Guy Events App. You can follow him through his website: MichaelPinkusWineReview.com

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 59

travel|Aspen

Cocktails Cowboys

&

s K i i n G A s P E n A n D s T E A M B o A T, C o L o r A D o 60 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

By hoLLY CraWForD

I

n the town of Aspen, Colorado if we are going somewhere for “après” does not appear to be the question, so much as where we are going for après.

In fact where and then where after that as I was pleased to discover.

Aspen is small. Just under 7,000 people call it home year-round. Then there are the many others that call it home when they feel the need for snow, speed and après ski.

Arriving in Aspen is just what you might imagine arriving in Aspen would be like. First you look up, up, up at the vista that is Aspen Mountain (or Ajax as those in the know will say). Then you look over there, and everywhere to see who, what and who and what they are wearing in this, the ultimately stylish ski town.

Ajax and the Silver Queen Gondola are at the centre of town. Its rising slope is what you see from any point in the village, and the base is where the bustling nightlife of Aspen seems to begin. When the lift closes for the afternoon, locals and visitors alike partake in the tradition of après ski. I could compare it to happy hour – if we had that in Canada – but I would say the reverence and adherence to the practice makes it closer to afternoon tea.

Before tucking into the town’s afternoon tradition though, I check into The Limelight Hotel.

The Limelight is located just across the park (where dogs frolic leash-free) from Aspen’s main street and boasts a stunning view of the town and Ajax, especially at night. The Limelight is contemporary in style, but incorporates lots of ski-lodge style comfort. Sumptuous sofas in front of a massive stone fireplace in the lobby bar look like the best spot in the house, and just outside on the patio an outdoor firepit welcomes guests after dark.

To my pleasant surprise when I open the drapes in my suite, the outdoor terrace looks over Aspen’s park and downtown, with Ajax’s soaring heights behind it. I could order-in and enjoy this view, but the après awaits.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 61

travel|Aspen

The Limelight hotel, Aspen, Colorado.

The pool at The Limelight hotel, Aspen, Colorado.w

You will find a special après menu at virtually all of the restaurants, bars and hotel lobbies in town, and this is the time of day to meet, mingle, grab a glass of Champagne and a delicious nibble. This really should be done while still in your ski garb, if you want to look like you belong here – although do remove your boots and goggles, please.

This is the mid-day repast that will sustain us so there is time to return to the hotel, freshen up from a day on the slopes, and then hit the town again a little later for dinner, and perhaps a bit of nightlife.

The Little Nell is the hotel that sits right at the bottom of Ajax, and boasts some of the best action for après. When the weather is fine you’ll find a crowd at The Little Nell’s Ajax Tavern soaking up the late-afternoon sun. It is a must-try of any visit to Aspen to come here and have Truffle Fries and a glass of Veuve Cliquot.

Inside The Little Nell, Chair 9 is only open during ski season (late November through early April) and opens in the afternoon just as the lifts are closing. This is a local favourite and cozy spot to curl up after a day on the slopes.

The lobby bar at The Limelight Hotel “The Lounge” is where hotel guests meet for breakfast, lunch and dinner; but come 4pm the après scene is set. Year-round from 3pm, The Limelight becomes an après ski hotspot with hotel guests and locals sharing the space in front of the fireplace, ordering craft cocktails and listening to live music.

Over at Hotel Jerome, there are a few options to settle in over small plates. The Living Room is warm, rich and inviting; a space that feels like it’s been serving fine cocktails for centuries. The hotel is a true Aspen antique and has been thoughtfully preserved and restored to a luxurious boutique hotel with style to spare. Hotel Jerome also boasts one of Aspen’s most indulgent dining experiences at Prospect Restaurant.

For a truly special night, stop at the bar for a glass of Champagne, and reserve a table in advance for the Chef’s Tasting Menu.

For late night the Caribou Club is a must stop – if you can angle entry. It’s a private club, unmarked and open to members. This is old-school style, with a lounge filled with deep velvet sofas and ornate carved furniture, begging for us to pull up fireside and toast our day in Aspen with bubbly. So we do just that, and it was a day well worth toasting.

if you go aspen snowmass aspensnowmass.com Limelight hotel limelighthotels.com The Little nell thelittlenell.com hotel Jerome hoteljerome.aubergeresorts.com Caribou Club caribouclub.com

62 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

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www.wandarose.ca GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 63

travel|Aspen

Cowboys & carving For another taste of Colorado, unlike Aspen but just as colourful, take the drive to Steamboat Springs.

This is cowboy country, as you will easily see from the decidedly charming and historic town where you can still buy a cowboy hat the general store. Rising up behind this mountain gem is the ski resort of Steamboat Springs.

This resort is more relaxed, casual in style, but has amazing skiing and top-notch restaurants galore.

For some fun off the slopes, a trail ride with Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch is a must. Del has lived in this part of Colorado for his entire life, along with his family.

Even if you don’t like riding, it’s almost worth the trip to hear Del’s stories during the drive to his Triangle 3 Ranch.

Get in the saddle and we are off for a trail ride in the snow. Even if you are used to riding, this is a bit of an adventure as Del takes us through elk and deer trails that wind in and out of forest and hillside, offering amazing views of the Colorado countryside.

His surefooted horses handle the deep pack snow, giving us a ride to remember. Colorado snow, sunshine and tales from a real life cowboy.

If all the time in the saddle or the bindings has you feeling tight, you should visit one of Steamboat Springs’ namesake hot springs. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a short drive outside of town (recommend the shuttle unless your rental is a 4X4 with great shocks) and is a must-visit while in Steamboat. It’s a bit of a bumpy ride on an unpaved road, depending on the weather, but worth it to experience the natural hot springs that have been turned into a series of pools with varying temperatures. This is a rustic experience, there are change rooms and not much else, but there is nothing like the experience of a hot spring, snow falling, and spotting an elk in the tree line above.

if you go Colorado ski Country coloradoski.com steamboat resort steamboat.com Del’s Triangle 3 ranch steamboathorses.com strawberry park hot springs strawberyhotsprings.com

64 | GoodLife South Simcoe - Winter 2016

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