Refined kingston vol 1 issue 3 2016 by Refined Kingston

Volume 1, Issue 3

UNBREAKABLE fashion meets art

BEST OF THE BEST

2016

MAKE A SPLASH choosing a fabulous bathing suit

all decked out create your ideal outdoor space

Fresh

Local

Living

Erin Finn | Jaunna Lessard | Jeff Easton | Romeo Ibit | Lisa Mochan

2015

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refinedkingston.com Volume 1, Issue 3

CONTRIBUTORS

Publisher Cathie Watson cathie.refined@gmail.com

Editor-in-Chief Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough kate.refined@gmail.com

Layout & Design Jacqui Lysko designer.refined@gmail.com

Contributing Writers Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough, Tori Stafford, Trina Annand

Photography Stephen Wild, Lauren Kauffman, Bell Photo, Unveiled Photography

Cover Photography

Expert Advice Contributors: EMPLOYEE BENEFITS AND GROUP INSURANCE Bryce Parisotto (CFP) Shannon Bennett-Parisotto (CHS) Benefits Consulting Plus Inc. LIFE COACH Laurie Hannah BANKING Giselle Godfrey Limestone Credit Union FINANCIAL PLANNING Dan MacWhirter, PFP Investors Group Financial Services I.T. SUPPORT Wil Cleland Response I.T. SPA Joanne Burke Touch of Wellness

Refined Kingston Magazine @refinedmagygk

Stephen Wild stephenwildphotography.com

Account Executive

Refined Kingston magazine is published by Refined Lifestyles Ltd. Refined Kingston is independently owned and operated. Opinions expressed in Refined Kingston are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the advertisers. Refined Kingston does not assume liability for content. All rights reserved ÂŠRefined Magazines. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. For permission contact the publisher.

Jacqui Lysko 613.213.3145 jacqui.refined@gmail.com

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PUBLISHER'S NOTE

Summer

Memories

Welcome to the summer edition of our magazine. I hope this issue finds you in the midst of enjoying the start to a truly pleasurable and adventure-filled summer. As I reflect on the summers of my own youth, I look forward to making memories with my own children enjoying the long summer days ahead of us. Growing up in Alberta, with family ties to Ontario, I spent every summer in the “Yours to Discover” province. Endless hours were spent playing outside with friends I made at my grandmother’s home in London and catching fireflies once dusk settled in. I also vividly remember many trips to the cottage, and the obligatory trips to Canada’s Wonderland and Niagara Falls.

Publisher Cathie Watson cathie.refined@gmail.com

As an adult living in the Limestone City, summer holds a somewhat different meaning for me. I enjoy sunset dinners at many of our amazing downtown patios, watching my Bernese Mountain dog romping around playfully at Lemoine’s Point, and the family memories made at Springer Market Square while watching movies together. And let’s not forget the amazing local music scene; you can always find a great band guaranteed to offer a great time. In this issue, we bring you a special feature, our annual “Best of the Best” section. In it, we showcase some of our city’s best businesses, products and services. As always, we have an issue bursting with all kinds of great information. The features throughout will help you make this summer your most enjoyable one yet. Enjoy the issue.

Cathie 6

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FIRST WORD

Editor-in-Chief Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough kate.refined@gmail.com

husband (I hope we can sneak in one or two before summer’s end!), and meeting up with my mom to go shopping for one-of-a-kind treasures. Indeed, there’s no shortage of things to do in this city, no matter who you are and what you enjoy. Part of what I love about my job — and the list is truly endless — is the chance to learn about all of the unique places in Kingston. I feel so very privileged to meet so many inspiring business owners in our city, to hear their stories and pass those tales on through my writing. Through ReFINEd Kingston, I’ve discovered so many new “favourites” — whether it’s a favourite clothing boutique, butcher shop or spa — that I’d never heard of before. And that’s the true beauty of this local magazine. The comment I hear most often is how much people love learning about all that’s out there for them to discover and enjoy right here in Kingston. It’s an honour to help you — our reader — discover your next favourite, whatever that might be.

Favourite things And so, here we are, in the midst of summer in the Limestone City. Is there anything better? It doesn’t seem so long ago that all winter, I’d ache for lazy strolls downtown with an ice cream cone in my hand, idle time on the patio of my favourite restaurant with a cold bottle of wine, and endless hours reading by the waterfront. Now that I’m a mom, those laid-back days are over… at least for a few years. Now, I look forward to watching the ducks swim contentedly in Confederation Park while my young daughter toddles around, seeing what kind of trouble she can get herself into (I assure you, there’s lots of it!). I anticipate outings as a family, watching a film during Movies in the Square, or taking in the excitement of the Sheep Dog Trials. I’m excited about dinner dates with my

For this issue, we’ve gone one step further than usual to include our special Best of the Best section. In it, you’ll learn about some of Kingston’s finest restaurants, boutiques and services. We’ve also packed the issue full with tons of articles on how to make the most of your summer. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect bathing suit, renovating a cottage or seeking a mental respite from the hustle-and-bustle of everyday life, we’ve got you covered. Before we know it, the children will be gearing up for school and the leaves will begin to change. So as a city, let’s make the most of summer before it’s over. Get out there often to enjoy the countless great things Kingston has to offer.

Katrina ReFINEdKINGSTON

CONTENTS

32 COVER FEATURE u nbreakable D E PA R T M E N T S

“Glass is magical and sensual. It’s not a material that can be manipulated by touching it with your hands. It takes special skill and a lot of training to express yourself artistically with molten glass.” Laura Donefer

STYLE & BEAUTY Summer Hair

38 YOUR HEALTH Yoga Retreats

FOCUS ON FAMILY Summer Learning

EVENTS CALENDAR Summer 2016

58 CITY LIFE The Woolen Mill Experience

60 FOOD & DRINK Four Sliders

66 BUSINESS Pita Pit

72 MOTORING Detailing Your Car

78 AT HOME Life at the Lake

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It’s the body’s imperfect perfection that makes tattooing as beautiful, as breathtaking, as it is. - Inked, The Art of Tattooing

F E ATU R E S 14 INKED 18 MAKE A SPLASH 22 DARE TO BE DENIM 32 COVER FEATURE UNBREAKABLE 42 DRINK TO YOUR HEALTH 50 OUT FOR SUMMER 62 WINNING WINES 82 ALL DECKED OUT 86 BEST OF THE BEST 2016 ReFINEdKINGSTON

STYLE & BEAUTY

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easy, breezy summer hairstyles By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

Summer is upon us. Embrace the warm weather with these hotter-than-hot hair trends. Miniature Braids Braids are, without a doubt, a summer staple. This year, mini braids were showcased on endless designers’ runways, proving how versatile and pretty they can be. For a polished look suitable for a day at the office, slick your hair back and wear your braid down the centre of your back. On the weekend, the look can be more playful. Try pulling your hair back into a high ponytail and braiding the pony in three different sections. Twist them together, and secure at the end with a clear elastic. This look is perfect for a day at the beach, because it prevents your hair from tangling when you go swimming. Ponytails A look that never goes out of style, ponytails are a classic summer favourite. While they pull your hair off your neck on those sweltering summer days, they’re also a quick summertime style perfect for harried mornings when you’re running late. This season, high ponytails secured with pretty ribbons were all over the runways. To avoid looking too girlish, opt for a black

ribbon, and don’t tie it in a perfect bow — keep it undone and loose for a modern, grown-up look. If you favour the low pony, use a rootbooster for volume and rake your hair back to loosely secure the look with an elastic. Use your fingers to slightly tousle the roots and wind a small section of your hair around the base of the pony for a look that strikes a perfect balance between undone and classy. Natural Locks Who wants to spend time blow drying, straightening or curling their hair during the too-short summer? Put down those hot tools — now is the perfect time to break up with your blow dryer and embrace your natural texture whether it’s straight, wavy or curly. Start by towel-drying your locks, but don’t rub it — this causes frizz. Comb through with a wide-tooth comb designed to minimize breakage, and then put it down to make the most of your hair’s natural texture. Your fingers are your best styling tool during the summer. No matter what type of hair you’re starting with, always start with UVA/UVB protection and work it in all the way from your roots to your tips; the sun’s rays can wreak havoc on your hair.

If your hair is fine or straight, opt for some hair oil to keep ends looking healthy and nourished. Just rake your fingers through your hair, and you’re off. If your hair is wavy, make use of a microfibre towel to blot your hair after stepping out of the shower to avoid the frizz commonly associated with this hair texture. Next, apply some sea salt spray and finish by scrunching your hair for a look that screams beach-ready. If you have curly hair, avoid brushes altogether. Give those gorgeous coils some definition with a curl cream for some soft hold or a gel for a bit more structure — just avoid applying too much product; you want to avoid crunchy locks. Messy Buns Easy, chic and perfect for sultry summer days, messy buns are having a major moment. “Breezy” and “undone” are the two key words to keep in mind when it comes to this style — the look is carefree and fun, and a snap to style. An added bonus? It’s perfect for a day or two after washing. If your hair is squeaky clean, use a dry shampoo for some texture. Backcomb (tease) all of your hair for sexy volume and texture, and then flip your head over and twist your hair into

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an undone bun. Pull some pieces out for a look that’s more beach bum than ballerina.

casual wedding hairstyle that requires minimal effort. Just pull your hair into two pigtails, twist them together and secure with some bobby pins.

Twisted Styles Much like mini-plaits, twisted hairstyles were all over the summer runways. Designer J.W. Anderson had several models sporting a ponytail separated into two sections and twisted together. Worn low on the nape of the neck, the look was sexy and cool.

The Wet Look A trend some women might have a hard time embracing, the wet look was seen all over the spring and summer runways. From Donna Karan and Alexander Wang to Altuzarra and Helmut Lang, the straight-fromthe-pool look dominated. While it’s an undoubtedly bold trend, it’s easy to achieve for short or long locks. Simply towel-dry your hair, comb with a wide-tooth brush, apply a wax pomade throughout, and revel in the fact that achieving the look took less than a minute.

Meanwhile, Paul Smith had his runway models sport their hair twisted into a figure-eight shape that sat midway on the head. It’s a great look for a

Not a do-it-yourselfer when it comes to your summer hairstyle? Treat yourself to weekly blowouts at your favourite salon. Want to make it last? Follow these tips: Loosely pull your hair back into a low ponytail with a scrunchie before bed, and sleep on a silk pillowcase Use a shower cap lined in terry cloth By day three, your hair might lack the volume you left the salon with — use a texturizing spray to liven it up. On the fourth day, bust out your dry shampoo If you want to make your blowout last beyond five days, it’s likely time to pull it back into a messy topknot or a slicked-back pony until your next trip to the salon RK

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Experience the Difference

At Dolce Bella Spa, history and luxury meet to provide you with Kingstonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most unique spa and wellness experience. Located on the banks of the Cataraqui River-Rideau Canal in a 19th century landmark Woolen Mill that dominates this part of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skyline, our guests look out at beautiful waterfront. Step back in time at Dolce Bella Spa to experience the future and embrace revitalization. A premier location awaits you. Our spa can accommodate large group bookings, from bridal parties to corporate conferences

8 Cataraqui Street, Kingston (In the Old Woolen Mill) Toll Free: 1.877.424.4417 613.544.1166 info@dolcebellaspa.com

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Voted Canadian Day Spa of the Year

Inked THE ART OF TATTOOING By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

The buzzing sound of a needle punctuates the air of a downtown tattoo shop as a young woman sits calmly beneath glaring fluorescent lights, her tattoo artist expertly dispensing vibrant ink into her fair skin.

According to 2013 statistics from the Canadian Dermatology Association, she makes up part of the 21 per cent of Canadians that have at least one tattoo. And with the introduction of ubiquitous TV shows like L.A. Ink, Ink Master and Tattoo Titans, they’re growing in popularity every day. Wayne Murrill, owner of True North Tattoo and one of the Limestone City’s most respected tattoo artists, has experienced firsthand the cultural shift tattooing has seen over the last 25 years or so. Once thought of as “outsider, fringe

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art,” tattooing has become mainstream, no longer a sign of rebellion like it once was.

Nevertheless, there’s no discounting the fact that tattooing is a beautiful, demanding form of art. It’s personal in ways no other art form is — tattoos, after all, are forever inscribed on the skin of living and breathing canvases. They’re not something that can be tucked behind protective glass, under the bright spotlights of a museum. “It’s artwork that moves around and talks and describes its experiences,” explains Murrill. And although the human body is an amazing, beautiful thing, it’s anything but an ideal canvas. It takes someone special — with incredible talent — to master the art of tattooing, to maneuver a powerful machine that can pierce the skin as fast as 5,000 times per minute. “It’s not the perfect

canvas. It’s not at all,” says Murrill. “People have allergies, skin textures are different, people have different skin tones, they have moles, acne, and there is hair. Skin is stretchy, it bleeds, and it’s painful. Clients complain and they move…it’s a difficult canvas.” And yet, it’s the body’s imperfect perfection that makes tattooing as beautiful, as breathtaking, as it is. Whether it’s a delicate and meaningful symbol, a colourful flower, or a bold skull emblazoned with flames, it’s more than body art — it’s a language of its own. Perhaps embracing this idea, more and more women are using tattoos to express themselves when conventional language falls short. Breast cancer survivors who have undergone mastectomies use tattoos to reclaim what’s been

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lost; to take control once again of their own bodies after facing the ravages of cancer. Murrill understands the power of this, as well. For the past 11 years, he has been doing areolar re-pigmentation in conjunction with Dr. Nicholas Guay, chief of surgery at William Osler Health System in Toronto. Others yet use the art of tattooing to cover scars, whether they’re from accidents, surgeries, or selfharm. While scars — and the sometimes painful stories behind them — cannot be erased, tattoos can help one learn to accept and love his or her body once again. Inherently knowing tattoos have such power, such beauty, is part of what drew Murrill into the business

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more than two decades ago. And with a waiting list that averages four to five months, his passion and dedication to the craft is as loud and clear as the humming needles sounding throughout the shop. “There’s something different every time,” he says. “You’re always challenged, you’re always asked to do something for someone that tests you artistically.” Perhaps embracing the popularity of tattooing — and recognizing it as its own unique form of art — the Royal Ontario Museum currently has an exhibition, titled Tattoos: Ritual. Identity. Obsession. Art running until Sept. 5. It allows viewers to “explore the fascinating history and evolution of tattooing,” and offers “fascinating insights into ancient practices, histories, meanings, and the revival of the global phenomenon of body art.”

Now what? Now it’s time to ensure that your gorgeous new piece of artwork stays that way! Immediate Aftercare: Your artist will most likely have tips that may vary, so listen to their advice first. They’re the artist who knows how to care for their particular tattooing techniques the best, but here are a few basics. Leave your bandage or tattoo covering on for one to three hours after your tattoo is finished. Your artist will instruct you on exactly how long to keep the bandage there. This process is collecting a lot of the goop, blood, and even ink from the fresh tattoo, so keep it on! You don’t want to ruin any new clothes or overly expose it at first.

tattoo. Aveeno is a great brand available at drug stores and comes in both large bottles as well as convenient travel sizes, which are perfectly sized to fit in your pocket or purse. For the first two weeks, avoid wearing tight clothing. Otherwise you run the risk of scabbing and ink loss when clothes rub up against your tattoo. If possible, avoid sleeping on your tattoo so you don’t agitate the healing process. While the tattoo is healing avoid going into large bodies of water (pool, ocean, hot tubs, etc.), the gym or activities that lead to excessive amounts of sweating, and exposure to the sun for the first two weeks. This could damage the tattoo in the healing process. Showers are fine as long as they are quick and not overly hot. You don’t want to burn your new ink! Continue this process until the tattoo is healed. And remember, don’t pick, peal or scratch any scabbing or hard layers. These hard layers are normal and picking them off could damage or remove color.

Long-Term Aftercare: Long-term aftercare is just as important as short-term. The more you care about how you treat your skin, the longer your tattoo will uphold it’s sheen. Your tattoos will lighten up after they have fully healed. That’s normal as the layers of skin are growing back over the ink and accepting it within your skin. But to keep a solid coloring, always make sure to put on sunscreen when going outside, especially in the summer. SPF 45 or higher and sunscreen for children are always great at protecting your skin and several tattoo aftercare brands make sun blocks designed for tattoos. Always keep your tattoos moisturized, especially in areas prone to fading like hands, feet, elbows, etc. This will help keep the tattoo in tact longer and less prone to fading over the years. RK

Make sure to wash your new tattoo several times a day with a soft, non-scented, antibacterial soap to keep it clean and avoid potential infection. Make sure to do this for two to three weeks or until the tattoo is more or less healed. Remember, never touch your tattoo unless you have just washed your hands! For the first few days (we suggest three days) after washing the tattoo make sure to apply an ointment to keep it hydrated. Great ointments to use that can be picked up at a drug store are A+D or Aquaphor. Use this sparingly! A thin layer is better than drowning the tattoo in goo and will help it heal faster. After the first few days of using ointment switch to a non-scented lotion after you wash your ReFINEdKINGSTON

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Make a Splash The Guide To Help You Choose a Bathing Suit For Your Body

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough We’ve all been there: staring dejectedly at racks and racks of swimsuits and not knowing where to begin. The myriad of cuts, colours and styles is nothing short of overwhelming; and that’s before you factor in your body insecurities.

Once you’ve made that commitment to yourself, it’s time to determine your body shape and get shopping.

Fret not. ReFINEd Kingston spoke with an expert with years of experience to get the low-down on what suits will suit you — so you can make a splash this summer with confidence.

“Look for more structure, support and something with extra coverage,” says Johnson. “You want to avoid tiny string bikinis.”

Before you set out, find a store that sells tops and bottoms separately, says Ellen Johnson, owner of Sand N’ Sea Boutique in Napanee. “When I go to the beach, I can tell right away who has purchased suits that come in a set,” she says. “Most women buy for a top that fits the best and don’t worry about the bottom, but a bad fit on the bottom looks just as unflattering as a badly fitting top, especially when wet.” It also goes without saying that different shapes flatter different figures. “Even if you and your best friend are both a size 12, your shape will be more flattering in a different bottom than hers," says Johnson. Comfort, she says, is key. “You need to be comfortable in your swimsuit whether you want to have a great time on your holiday, are going to a pool party, destination wedding, or even just going over to the Sandbanks for the day,” says Johnson. The key to success? “Commit to trying on lots of bathing suits when you’re shopping to make sure you find something you feel confident in,” says Johnson. “Most women try on an average of 20 to 30.”

Large Bust

Sort through your options to find swimsuits that feature a wide band or underwire below the bust to hold the swimsuit properly in place and give your girls the support they need while you’re frolicking in the waves. If you prefer the look of halter-style tops (they show off your womanly curves beautifully), make sure to get one that has cups and a band that do all the heavy lifting. If it doesn’t offer the proper support, your neck will end up carrying all the weight. Small Bust “It can be just as challenging for a small-busted woman as it is for a large-busted woman to find a swimsuit they feel comfortable in,” says Johnson. The trick is try on swimsuits that feature embellishments, ruffles or fringe details on the bust. Trimmings such as these will create the illusion of volume where there is none. A little extra padding and underwire can also help you to make the most of what you have. Johnson also advises ladies with smaller busts should avoid tops that are simple and dark; you want to shop for bright and bold patterns and colours to bring the eye up and attract attention.

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Pear Shape

Curvy

Athletic Build

If you’re smaller on top than you are on the bottom (just like Jennifer Lopez), you’ll want to minimize what’s going on below and draw attention to the top half of your body. Much like women with small busts, you’ll want to seek out a suit that features a bright and bold pattern up top; play up your best assets to strut the beach with confidence.

If you’re a fuller-figured beauty, comfort is the most important factor, says Johnson. With that said, don’t beeline for the section in the store with the one-piece bathing suits! Turn some heads with a bikini that’s built for your body. “You can still do a bikini,” encourages Johnson. “There’s nothing that looks cuter than a bikini top with a skirted bottom, or a bikini top with a retro bottom, which are really popular. They’re a hot trend.”

Women with athletic body types (like Cameron Diaz) can be tricky to fit because you want to create curves where there might not necessarily be any, says Johnson.

While a lot of women with a pear shape tend to choose boyshorts as their bottom piece because it offers a lot of coverage, Johnson advises against it. “In reality, a boyshort creates a big square shape around the area you’re trying to cover,” she says. “Something that will be more flattering is a higher-cut leg; this style makes your legs look longer.”

If you favour a one-piece, ruching is your friend. It can mask any areas you’re self-conscious about, and let you lounge poolside with confidence — and there’s nothing sexier than that.

Whatever your body type and whatever your style, embrace it and remember you’re beautiful just the way you are. You can buy the most expensive, flattering suit in the world, but if you don’t pair it with confidence, it’s all for naught. “Everyone has a great body shape,” says Johnson. “There is a swimsuit that’s going to make you feel fabulous — you just have to find it.” RK

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Opt for suits that have bold and bright colours, and styles that feature bold, diagonal lines, advises Johnson. A fan pattern is particularly flattering because it can trick the eye into seeing curves. If you’re a little more daring, shop for a bathing suit with strategic cutouts to enhance your lithe shape.

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

A wardrobe staple, few things are as classic and versatile as denim. Here are some ways to incorporate the timeless favourite into your everyday look.

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Boyfriend Jeans A must-have style for 2016, boyfriend jeans are having a major moment. Not quite ready to swap out your skinnies? Have some faith; the looser, casual vibe of boyfriend jeans can pack a powerful style punch! Paired with a tailored jacket and some fabulous accessories (don’t underestimate the power of super-high heels and a great bag!) your look will be right on point. Fade Away While there is a time and a place for dark-washed denim (fancier affairs, for example), pale denim deserves its moment in the sunshine, too. With a cool, casual vibe, faded denim is chic when paired with pretty much anything. Having lunch with friends? Go for a skinny pair of faded jeans and a lacey white top. For a night on the town, those same washed-out skinny jeans will go perfectly with bright pink lipstick and a flirty floral top. A sleek black blazer will complete the look. Denim Dress If there’s one thing taking the summer season by storm, it’s the denim dress. When the weather is hot and sticky, we just want something easy to throw on in the morning that will keep us cool all day. The denim dress is the perfect solution. For something refined that can take you from work to play, look for styles with a halter neckline and scalloped trimming. If you’re looking for something a little more casual, you can’t go wrong with the denim shirtdress. There are tons of different styles out there, so find what appeals to you and rock the look all season long. The denim dress is super versatile, so you can have it on repeat all season long — just switch up your accessories to keep your look fresh. Glittering Gold This season, dress up your denim with touches of gold. Look for jeans with gold-studded rear pockets (you’ll look great coming or going!), or a denim jacket with gold buttons. With touches of gold incorporated into your denim staples, your look will be a little more luxe and right on trend.

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Denim Shirt Much like the denim dress, everyone should own at least one denim shirt; the possibilities are endless. For a cheerful, summery look, pair yours with a bright pair of jeans. If you are wearing a dress, opt for a denim shirt in lieu of a classic cardigan — it’s a touch more unexpected and fun. And don’t be afraid to wear denim-on-denim; the trick is to mix light and dark washes.

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White and Bright Nothing says â&#x20AC;&#x153;summerâ&#x20AC;? more than crisp, bright white jeans; they are an absolute summertime staple. Invest in a great pair you feel confident and sexy in, and pair them with simple, elegant accessories. Try a nautically inspired striped top and simple stud earrings for a casual, elegant look.

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Be a Man of Substance and Style

Masculine Accessories to Amp Up Your Look By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

Who says accessories are only for women? Here are some ideas to take your manly style from ordinary to extraordinary.

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Keep Time There is something classic and sexy about a man wearing a watch. Stars like Adam Levine and Robert Downy Jr. are known for their stylish way of keeping time — you should be, too. Put away your smartphone — watches are much more sophisticated. Gone are the days of oversized timepieces; 2016 is the year of the classic leather band and slim case. Whether you opt for black or brown leather, or something in between, just remember the right watch can make or break your outfit. When in doubt, match your watch to your belt and shoes; wear a black watch with black shoes and a black belt, and a brown watch with brown shoes and a brown belt. If your budget allows, you might want to invest in more than one timepiece to complement different looks.

Wrap It Up Equal parts stylish and sexy, leather wrap bracelets are having a huge moment in the world of men’s fashion this season. They are an essential when it comes to accessorizing, so grab a few in different

colours. Want to really punch it up? Layer two or three together for a one-of-a-kind look. Try to find a bracelet or two that features a unique mix of metal and leather; even if you’re wearing a streamlined suit, you’ll still feel like a rockstar. Don’t know where to look? Local artist Whitney Haynes has a great collection to choose from — you can even customize your own for something totally unique. (Grab one for your significant other while you’re at it. Everyone needs one or two!).

Cap It Baseball caps are back in a big way this summer. Whether you love them or hate them, they’re an unbeatable way to rock a relaxed, laid-back vibe this season. Pack away your flat-brim hat (at least for now). Summer 2016 is all about the curved brim. Whether you don one that supports your favourite sports team (go Jays go!), or something with a plain front, your look will be right on point. Not sure what to wear it with? Pair yours with an unstructured blazer, plain T-shirt and faded denim jeans.

Walk This Way Embrace summer 2016’s urban casual vibe with a pair or two of slip-on shoes. An effortless way to look put together, slip on shoes are great for a grab-and-go look; they’re also a much more stylish option than sneakers. With a range of fabrics and colours to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something that suits your style. If you want to get the most bang for your buck, choose a pair in timeless black leather — you’ll be able to wear them with jeans or with a suit.

Make Your Style Ring True to You If you’re a fashion-forward fella, you’ll be thrilled to learn rings were all over the summer runways for 2016. Designers such as Gucci wholeheartedly encourage men to embrace the motto: “more is more.” Wear several rings on each hand to express your personality and style with confidence. RK

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House of Angelis Fashion Emporium 63 & 65 Brock Street, Kingston 613.544.9721

info@houseofangelis.ca www.houseofangelis.ca

EXPERT ADVICE ladies & mens fashion

Colour Your Summer

e are all guilty of owning too much black. Summer is here; it’s time to embrace colour!

Colour makes us happy, whether it’s in shades of sunshine, popsicles or blue skies. Dark colours can evoke a sense of power and authority, while pinks and pastels can be feminine and flirty. Red is the colour of romance and green is the colour of envy. Although everyone is unique in their combinations of skin and hair colour and preferences, it means everyone can find a hue they can own. Once you understand the basics, it’s easy to play and shift in tone and intensity.

Christine Bratt Chris James

DEFINING CONTEMPORARY STYLE

Not sure what your colour is? Your skin tone can be divided into warm, cool and neutral. The long way to find out is through experimentation, or you could go to a makeup counter and ask for help. But there is an easy way. In a well-lit room, clean your face, tie your hair back and grab a white cloth and a cream one. Hold each of the fabrics under your face individually. Generally, if your skin tone is cool, the white fabric will make your eyes pop, while the cream won’t, and vice versa. If you look great in both, your skin tone is neutral. If you’re still unsure, consider how your skin reacts to sun exposure. Those will cool skin tones tend to burn, while those with warm skin tones manage to tan easily. Once you’ve determined your tone, you’ll still need to experiment. Warm shades tend to have a yellow undertone, so look for natural, earth-toned colours. Think greens, oranges and deep burgundy shades. In contrast, cooler colours are summery. Look for pastels like blues and purples. Start small, and strive to enhance and flatter your natural colouring. If you love a colour but can’t wear it easily against your face, don’t despair: you can always wear it as an accessory or an accent, or even find a pattern it may be present in. Find a store with a great selection and an opinion you can trust, and play away. As Coco Chanel once said, “The best colour in the whole world is the one that looks good on you.”

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The Keys to Good Summer Style

ummer's looking good, make sure you're set for it. By now, all your weekends are likely booked up with weddings, family gatherings, travel plans and hopefully a little relaxation time. The keys to staying stylish in the summer? Fabrics, colours and the ability to stay versatile. Your summer work wardrobe probably looks much like your winter one. But with the new variety of prints and the overall ability to be a little less formal, why not embrace the season? Fabrics are key. Pack up your heavy cotton shirts and opt for some lighter weight ones for summer. Even if your job requires you to wear a suit or sport coat, linens, technical fabrics and half-lined jackets can make the season bearable. Pair these up with a great short sleeve shirt and you'll stay cool under the collar while looking stylish. And yes, you can wear the right short sleeve shirt with a tie. Colours lighten up as well in summer. Dressy chinos and lightweight cotton pants all play a starring role this season. Step out of the classic beige and khaki this season and try a new hue â&#x20AC;&#x201D; maybe a red, navy or caramel. You don't need to go wild, just mix it up a little. Lastly, don't forget other great pieces like the polo shirt. An undisputed timeless classic, it's sporty and stylish but it can also be dressy and appropriate across a number of situations. It all depends on the fabric. Versatile and easy to care for, they are great value for the money.

Chris James 253 Ontario St., Kingston 613.541.0707 chrisjameskingston.com

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C O V E R F E AT U R E

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Unbreakable Unbreakable Unbreakable Kingston Artist Making Her Mark in the Fashion World By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

Tucked away in the wilderness north of Kingston, Laura Donefer spends the early part of her morning in quiet reflection. She does yoga, walks her 11-year-old dog through the woods behind her home, and works in her garden. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost as if her artistic, colourful mind needs the tranquility of the early morning hours to ready itself for whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ahead: creating magical and thought-provoking pieces of art.

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Fashion Show History is Made

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Donefer has been an artist her entire life; born, it seems, to achieve creative greatness. She works with many forms of art — body adornment and painting just to name a few — but it wasn’t until she was 27 that she discovered her true passion: glass art. “Glass,” she says, “is magical and sensual. It’s not a material that can be manipulated by touching it with your hands. It takes special skill and a lot of training to express yourself artistically with molten glass.” Difficult, it may be, but Donefer has accepted the challenge with relish, and has been incredibly successful with it. Her innovative, colourful blown glass and flame worked amulet baskets — as well as the installations and sculptures that push boundaries exploring ideas concerning memory, assault, bereavement, joy and madness — have gained international recognition. Her pieces can be found not only in private collections, but also within the walls of some of the world’s most well-known museums, including the Corning Museum of Glass, the Museum of Glass in Tacoma and the Museum of Fine Art in Montreal. American businessman and philanthropist Charles Bronfman is a fan and has been collecting her work since the mid-80s. Fashion Show History is Made It was 1988 when Donefer was serving as the president of the Glass Art Association of Canada. The Glass Art Society was hosting its first-ever international conference in Toronto, and they wanted to do something big — something remarkable and memorable — to mark the occasion. Donefer, with her wonderfully wild and imaginative ideas, was the perfect one to approach. “I asked myself, ‘What wacky but unforgettable

event could I present that brought artists working with glass out of their separate studios and into the spotlight?’’’ she reminisces. Taking a chance, she rented the Royal York Hotel ballroom in Toronto and decided to host a fashion show. It wasn’t your typical fashion show, mind you, with lithe runway models strutting the runway wearing the season’s hottest trends. This fashion show featured costumes made exclusively with glass and worn by the artists themselves. “The audience went absolutely wild,” says Donefer, throwing her hands in the air to mark her point. She’s evidently still as excited about it today as she was all those years ago. Since that auspicious night, there have been 11 more shows, each one bigger, better and more memorable than the one before it. There have been additional shows for GAS conferences, select glass-related events, and even one for the City of Seattle’s New Year’s Eve Party. Some have been themed — like the Burlesque Glass Fashion Show in New Orleans — and others have pushed boundaries in new ways, such as the show in Montreal where Canadian glass artists were paired with top Canadian fashion designers to come up with haute couture glass wear. Famous Quebec designer Philip Dubuc cohosted that event with Donefer, and was very excited to incorporate glass into his creations. Indeed, that outrageously brilliant idea of 1988 somehow managed to blossom into one of the most popular events ever known to the glass art world. And this past June, she did it again.

“I asked myself, ‘What wacky but unforgettable event could I present that brought artists working with glass out of their separate studios and into the spotlight?’’’ Laura Donefer

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The Biggest, Most Elaborate Show to Date This latest show, which took place at the Corning Museum of Glass in New York state, featured more than 110 glass costumes designed and displayed by more than 80 glass artists from all corners of the globe, including Australia, Japan, Turkey, England, New Zealand, Spain, the United States and Canada. Donefer promised the event would be “absolutely epic” and she most certainly didn’t disappoint the more than 1,600 glass artists in the audience. For this show, one outfit featured thousands of small purple glass blown glass tubes sewn onto it to look like fur. Another complex costume came from an artist who created it in Japan, disassembled it so it would fit in a suitcase, then took a full day to put it back together in a room at The Corning Museum of Glass. A full-regalia bead worked costume created by an award-winning Métis artist proved to be the perfect finale to her 12th Glass Fashion Show. Much like the shows that preceded it, this one proved to be tremendous. “Each Glass Fashion Show has been an extremely memorable occasion with fantastic costumes, and out-of-this-world onstage energy,” says Donefer. “It is more a performance than an actual fashion show, with loud music and some pretty outrageous dance moves by the artists wearing their own creations on the catwalk.” The “Diva of Glass Fashion” Perhaps Donefer’s most famous title is one she never expected to have: the Diva of Glass Fashion. “I am a glass artist — and not at all trained in fashion,” says Donefer in a press release. “In my wildest dreams, I never expected anything like this to take over my life. Truly, it is all about entertainment. For the artists involved, it is about creating something spectacular to wear from a material that is not normally used on the body. Being involved in the Glass Fashion Show stretches their creativity and their imaginations, and the end result is nothing short of awe-inspiring.” RK

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Laura Donefer The “Diva of Glass Fashion”

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Y our H ealth

Retreat from the Ordinary By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

Seeking a transformative experienced designed to renew and revitalize you to your very core? A yoga retreat may be the answer.

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ckhart Tole once said, “Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have.” Perhaps this is true, but it can be hard to be mindful and present when we’re wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Between getting out the door in the morning, putting dinner on the table in the evening and surviving the hectic workday in between, it’s difficult sometimes to catch a breath, let alone live gratefully in the present. Indeed, most of us are just thankful to fall into bed, exhausted, once the day is all over. Time and time again, it’s been proven that slowing down and being more mindful is essential to overall health and happiness, and yoga retreats have become an essential part of the overall health equation; they force you to unplug, be present, and immerse yourself into your yoga practice. The best part? You don’t need to be an experienced yogi to take part.

If you’re new to yoga retreats, you may find yourself wondering what they entail. Yoga classes go without saying of course, but you’ll find that many retreats also provide participants with delicious and wholesome meals, the opportunity to take part in restful meditations and calming walks, and chances to nurture your spirit with a book. If you simply can’t bear the thought of being totally secluded from home, some even offer Wi-Fi. Still need some convincing? It’s important to remember that to be able to serve others, you must first serve yourself. Taking a break, stepping away from it all — that means work obligations and family responsibilities — can allow you to recharge and be better equipped to handle what life throws at you. Remember to journal while you’re on your retreat. Once you’re home, you might slip too easily back into your old routines. Reading back on your experiences may help you to establish new routines aimed at better selfcare.

Retreats will also help you gain an important sense of mindfulness — this can help improve both your physical and mental health. It takes some practice, but with dedication, you’ll find you learn to notice how you’re feeling and what you’re doing. If you’ve recently gone through a major life change — a divorce, or the loss of a loved one, for example — you might find that participating in a retreat provides you with the opportunity to make a fresh start and to find balance within your life. If you’re still undecided, consider this: yoga retreats are located in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. Whether you want to perfect your eagle pose on the idyllic beaches of Thailand, or master your half moon pose on a mountaintop in the Himalayas, there are endless locales to choose from. Want to stay close to home? You’re in luck. There are a number of wonderful, well-respected retreats only a short drive away from the Limestone City, including Shanti Retreat on Wolfe Island and the Heartwood Retreat in Prince Edward County. Don’t waste any more time finding your inner peace; you owe it to you. RK

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ways to stay fit out of the gym this summer

Visiting a gym to lift weights or take a class is great for your health. However, busy schedules, tight budgets and simply not feeling like the gym environment is for you are reasons that frequently cause people to stop going. Fortunately, being fit doesn’t require the gym!

Inside the home Stuck inside? No problem. Try some squats or, if mobility is an issue, squat to a chair. Push-ups are another classic, highly effective option. If regular push-ups aren’t an option, do them from your knees or against the wall. Other amazing exercises: lunges around the house, shoulder presses with dumbbells, jumping rope, jumping jacks, running in place, planks and sit-ups.

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Outside in nature Being out in the fresh air is a great escape that offers loads of fitness possibilities. Try hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking, skiing, fishing, mountain biking or whatever else peaks your curiosity. Simply taking a walk around the yard or block is beneficial, too. At the office Overcome the sedentary office lifestyle by making time for fitness. Try taking the stairs every day and park far away so you walk to the door. Then, use a 5-minute break every hour to do something active such as chair squats or seated leg raises. Set an automated alert so you don’t forget. Group fitness Fitness can be more fun when you do it with friends or family. Play tag, organize relay races

or create an obstacle course outside. Other enjoyable group fitness activities include hiking, swimming, basketball, soccer, Frisbee and bike rides. When out and about A busy schedule packed with errands still presents the opportunity for fitness. For example, walk or run the parking lot while kids are taking dance or music classes rather than passing the time on your smartphone. Eat a balanced diet To support fitness efforts, it’s important to eat well and regularly. The best foods for sustained energy are balanced meals of complex fiber carbohydrates, healthy fats and lean protein. Piattoly suggests eating every three to four hours. Some ideas to include in balanced meals: whole grain breads and crackers, chicken breast, legumes and fresh fruit and vegetables.

EXPERT ADVICE spa

Maintaining Healthy Skin

Joanne Burke Touch of Wellness

Taking care of your skin is just as important as a well-balanced diet, regular exercise and plenty of sleep. Not sure how to get that sought-after glow? These tips will help you to get started. Get Regular Facials Treating yourself to a facial once every four weeks can benefit your skin in many ways. When combined with a proper skin care routine, facials can help prevent breakouts, dehydrated skin and premature aging. Regular facials also noticeably improve skin tone, texture and appearance. Follow a Regular Skin Care Routine Throughout the year, our skin not only has to adapt to weather changes, it also must adjust to diet modifications and more. It is important to understand how your products can help you maintain the look of your skin and apply those products regularly to feed your skin with essential nutrients.

Book an Aveda Skin Consultation If you don’t follow a proper skin care routine or do not have regular in facials, it is important to book a complimentary skin consultation with an experienced Aveda therapist and let him or her help you achieve healthy, glowing skin. They understand skin and can customize treatments and products according to your skin type and condition.

Healthy skin is our body’s first line of defense against illness, bacteria and disease, so taking care of it is extremely important.

Touch of Wellness 86 Centre Street, Napanee 613.354.3131 touchofwellnessnapanee.com

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drink to your health By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

Are you looking to kick-start healthier habits? A juice cleanse might be for you.

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Now that summer’s here, it’s a great time to begin a Nowcleanse; that summer’s here, it’sFarmers’ a great Market time to in begin a juice the Kingston Springer juice cleanse; Kingston Farmers’ Market Springer Market Squarethe offers a plethora of fresh, localinproduce. Market Square offers a plethora of fresh, local produce.

ccording to Statistics Canada, the obesity rate to in our countryCanada, is growingthe ccording Statistics at obesity an alarming rate, with the proportion rate in our country is growing at of obeseanCanadians sitting roughly 20.2 of alarming rate, withatthe proportion perobese cent inCanadians 2015 — that’s up from just over 15per sitting at roughly 20.2 percent centin in2015 2003. — that’s up from just over 15 per cent in 2003. If you’re among this 20.2 per cent, you might beIf looking to kick-start healthier habits, you’re among this 20.2 per cent, younot might only loose excess weight,healthier but to increase betolooking to kick-start habits, not your andexcess decrease yourbut chances of onlyenergy to loose weight, to increase having high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, your energy and decrease your chances of heart disease, high cholesterol, osteoarthritis having high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. heart disease, high cholesterol, osteoarthritis and certain cancers. Juice cleanses — which sometimes get a bad reputation for providing calories, Juice cleanses — which insufficient sometimes get a bad noreputation protein, and concentrated amounts of for providing insufficient calories, sugar — simply provide a pathway to improve no protein, and concentrated amounts of your future habits.provide They should not be to seen as sugar — simply a pathway improve a your fix-all,future but as a launching pad to begin a as habits. They should not be seen new routine — one geared toward a longer, a fix-all, but as a launching pad to begin a healthier life. — one geared towards a longer, new routine healthier life. Juice cleanses help you to get several servings of fruits and into several one Juice cleanses helpvegetables you to get drink, offering plenty of vitamins, minerals and servings of fruits and vegetables into one beneficial antioxidants. as no surpriseand drink, offering plenty Itofcomes vitamins, minerals juice cleanses have become so mainstream beneficial antioxidants. It comes as no surprise when Blake Lively, Jessica Alba, juicecelebrities cleanseslike have become so mainstream Jennifer Lopez and Demi Moore swear by them when celebrities like Blake Lively, Jessica Alba, toJennifer cease Lopez bad eating habits and encourage and Demi Moore swear by them long-term health to cease badresults. eating habits and encourage long-term health results. So where do you begin? So where do you begin? It’s always best to consult with a physician beforehand determine if a with juiceacleanse It’s always to best to consult physician is beforehand right for you.toIf determine you get the light, if a green juice cleanse determine how long you want to do the juice is right for you. If you get the green light, cleanse; theyhow canlong last you anywhere determine want tofrom do athefew juice

days to several weeks. If you’re new to juice cleanses, best to start Ifsmall; begin a days to it’s several weeks. you’re new with to juice cleanse that only lasts a few days. cleanses, it’s best to start small; begin with a cleanse that only lasts a few days. Do your research and see if there is any manufacturers of juice products Do your research and cleanse see if there is any that suit you. The Blueprint Cleanse juices manufacturers of juice cleanse products that are fromBlueprint 100 per cent raw fruits suitmade you. The Cleanse juices areand made veggies. are raw customized to juicers from 100They per cent fruits and veggies. They based on their past experience with are customized to juicers based oncleanses their past and what theywith hope to getand out what of it. Another experience cleanses they hope company, LuliTonix, is a cleanse option that is to get out of it. Another company, LuliTonix, provides four blends of juices per day, and a cleanse option that provides four blends leaves whatperyou eatand for leaves dinner what up toyou you.eat of juices day, There are countless companies to choose for dinner up to you. There are countless from — it’s up to to determine what companies to you choose from — it’s up works to you best for you. Talk to friends and co-workers for to to determine what works best for you. Talk recommendations. friends and co-workers for recommendations. If Ifyou youchoose choosetotomixmixyour yourown ownjuice, juice,grab grab some kale, spinach, cucumbers, beets, celery some kale, spinach, cucumbers, beets, celery and andcarrots carrots— —whatever whateverfruits fruitsand andveggies veggies you fancy — and get blending! If you want aa you fancy — and get blending! If you want touch of sweetness in your drink, apples are aa touch of sweetness in your drink, apples are great addition, just remember they add extra great addition, just remember they add extra calories. calories. Remember Remembertotodrink drinkplenty plentyof ofwater waterduring during your cleanse and avoid things like your cleanse and avoid things likealcohol, alcohol, sugary and caffeine. sugarytreats, treats,salty saltytemptations temptations and caffeine. Make sure you do some light exercise such as as Make sure you do some light exercise such walking and yoga; you may find your energy walking and yoga; you may find your energy is islower cleanse, soso take it easy lowerduring duringa ajuice juice cleanse, take it easy and listen to your body. and listen to your body. When it’sit’s time Whenyour yourjuice juicecleanse cleanseis complete, is complete, time totobegin healthier habits geared toward begin healthier habits geared towarda a new EatEat smart, drink plenty newand andimproved improvedyou. you. smart, drink plenty ofofwater, limit your alcohol intake and exercise water, limit your alcohol intake and exercise regularly. be amazed amazedatat regularly.You’ll You’ll be howhow muchmuch better better you look and feel. RK you look and feel.

superdetox 2 apples ½ cucumber 1 stick celery 1 small handful of spinach Ice cubes 1 heaped tsp greens supplement (if you don’t have this, replace by juicing a handful of mixed green leaves such as watercress, parsley or lettuce).

Juice the apples, cucumber, celery and spinach. Pour into blender, then add ice and supplement. Blend for about 1 minute or until smooth. If you use mixed green leaves instead of the supplement, simply juice these along with the other ingredients and then add the ice.

turboexpress ½ small pineapple ½ stick celery 1in chunk of cucumber 1 small handful of spinach leaves 1 small piece of peeled lime 2 apples ½ ripe avocado Ice cubes

Juice the pineapple, celery, cucumber, spinach, lime and apples. Place the ripe avocado flesh in a blender along with the ice and juice mixture. Blend until smooth. Pour into glass and enjoy.

cleanse; they can last anywhere from a few

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F O C U S O N F A M I LY

Summer Learning

Keep Your Kids’ Minds Sharp During the School Break By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photo Stephen Wild

According to the Ontario Summer Learning Project, research finds many students suffer from learning loss during the summer months, and that disadvantaged students are most vulnerable.

A number of countries, including the United States, Germany and Australia, are encouraging schools to adapt year-round schedules to address the detrimental effect long summer breaks can have on kids’ learning. In Canada, however, not many schools have hopped onboard; with many parents, teachers and school officials making a strong case for the mental break summer offers. Although they have a solid point, it makes the inevitable return to school in September that much more challenging — for both students and their teachers. If the student is already struggling with his or her grades, the problems can be twofold. “One of the challenges is the change of routine,” says Lynn Sadlowski, founder and director of education of Spotlight Learning. “During summer, we often find there is less routine, so going back to school often brings challenges.” What’s a parent to do? Knowing that education continues outside of the classroom, a number of learning programs have cropped up over the years. These programs, designed with valuable skills in mind — including literacy, math, science and second languages — give caregivers a vital opportunity to keep their kids’ brains active during the eight-week break. Summer academics benefit young students in immeasurable ways — and its popularity is evident: the tutoring market in Canada is experiencing

a huge boom in business. One well-known tutoring company has been steadily growing since it began franchising in 1991, while a similar business has over 300 centres than span Canada, and operates in more than 48 countries around the globe. Knowing whether a summer dedicated to learning is right for your child is something only you and your child’s teachers will know, but spending a day or two a week on academics certainly isn’t going to hurt. Your child will not only gain invaluable confidence when it comes to their educational skills, but they will also be able to better retain information they learned during the previous school year. It’s also worth nothing that supplementary education will allow your child to be better prepared for the learning that will take place in the classroom when they return to school in the fall. “Research shows teachers have to spend quite a bit of time reviewing old material in the fall,” says Sadlowski. “If we had more students spending time throughout the summer continuing their learning, they could jump right into the new curriculum, versus having to go back and review a lot of things that were done a year prior.” Parents and teachers alike know there is nothing quite like one-on-one attention when it comes to children and learning. Whether your child is six or 16, he or she has the potential to benefit from regular, personalized learning. RK

(model: Breanna Watson)

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EEXPERT X P E R T ADVICE ADVICE life coach life coach

D E V

O R PP

A Hannah - Life Coach LaurieLaurie Hannah, Life Coach

Ensure a Long and Happy Marriage

re you tying the knot this summer? Start your marriage off right with some useful tools to ensure wedded bliss now and forever. As a certified relationship expert trained at The Robbins Maddens Institute for Strategic Intervention, I see many couples experiencing problems that can be prevented by building positive habits. Three of the most common problems are blaming your partner and not taking ownership of your part in the problem; misunderstanding the intention of your partner’s behaviour or giving it meaning that has more to do with your past than the actual meaning of the behaviour; and finally, having unrealistic expectations. Blaming The first problem of blaming is extremely common. It is difficult to look in the mirror and ask yourself, “How have I been contributing to this problem we are having?” If you are experiencing problems within your relationship, it’s quite likely the responsibility belongs to both of you.

TIPS:

If your goal is to have a positive future together, try asking yourself what you can do to make the situation better. We can only change ourselves; we can never expect change by demanding the other person take full responsibility for whatever is happening. Misunderstanding The second problem speaks to the baggage we all carry around. Whether it stems from our parents, teachers, previous relationships, siblings, or stories we have heard, the meaning of any situation is based on what we already know. Other people sometimes do things we don’t understand. In the process of making sense of it, we rely on information that already exists in our long-term memory. If previous experience tells us the situation or behaviour places our relationship at risk or that our feelings will be hurt, we can become defensive and jump to the wrong conclusion out of fear.

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Unrealistic Expectations Each of us has a clearly defined idea of what love looks like, feels like and sounds like. When reality doesn’t match what we have in mind, it often creates stress and unhappiness. This can lead to romantic expectations our partners simply can’t live up to. It’s important to do your very best every day to love and respect each other in a way that allows you to be the individuals you are and to make memories that create an image of what this particular relationship is. Focus on each other and find ways to make today happier than yesterday. Create pathways to success — not barriers.

• Always remember the reasons you fell in love • Spend time every day being grateful for the good things about your relationship • Remember love is about what you give, not what you expect from the other person • Life is short. Be good to one another, and forgive each other for mistakes

Laurie Hannah LIFE COACH 46

It’s important to speak to each other with an open mind, and without anger or resentment. Have regular conversations about how to deal with problems that may come up and listen without judgment. Do not rely on your experiences with unsuccessful relationships from the past; this will only set you up for another failure. Try learning information that will lead to success instead of re-living old chapters of your life.

613.530.5124 ljhannah03@gmail.com

STRONGER SMARTER BOLDER

In Canada, women earn 66.7 cents for every dollar earned by men, while half of all women have experienced sexual or physical violence at least once according to the Canadian Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Foundation. Though these statistics paint a bleak picture for girls and women across the country, an organization in Kingston is aiming to change that.

Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos courtesy Girls Inc.

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Smart Start Participants

Girls Inc. Limestone, originally founded in 1972 as Big Sisters of Kingston, has a mission, and it’s a vital one: to inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold. “There are so many hurdles girls and women have to jump over,” says Lindsey Belch, executive director of Girls Inc. Limestone. “As a society, we have not achieved equality. There are still all kinds of issues around employment, and the violence statistics in Canada are not good. Teaching young girls what they need to do to stay safe is really important.” The grassroots, non-profit organization, which provides life-skills education and mentoring programs for girls, is at the heart of girls’ lives and the forefront of the girls’ rights movement, explains Belch. With their programs, they serve more than 1,400 girls each year. That means since Girls Inc. began in the 70s, there’s roughly 61,600 girls and women in Kingston who are stronger, smarter and bolder than they were prior to taking part in the programming. It’s a significant number — and it’s one that deserves recognition.

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The Programming Girls Inc. has a number of ongoing programs that help girls navigate gender, economic and social barriers, says Belch, who has been with Girls Inc. since 1992. The researchbased curricula, which is delivered by trained mentoring professionals in an allgirl environment, equips girls to achieve academic success, lead healthy, bodypositive lives, manage money, navigate media messages, and discover an interest in science, technology, engineering and math. “We have all kinds of community partners that come into work with them, because if we’re going to really change the stats on women in science, technology, engineering and math, we really need to expose them to what it’s all about at a really young age,” says Belch. The after school program, which delivers Girls Inc. programming, takes place in Rideau Heights. It currently has more than 60 girls registered. On school nights, young girls from grades 1 to 8 take part in self-defence training, media literacy programming, healthy peer relationship programming, and programming around relational aggression.

“Girls can be so cruel to one another,” says Belch, “so we talk about the psychology of that so they can turn it around and the girls can be allies. They don’t have to be each other’s best friends, but we have to have each other’s backs.” Each evening includes a healthy snack, and a safe walking group for transportation to and from the centre. Girls Inc. also delivers Girls Ed. programs. Designed for adolescent and teen girls, the Girls Ed. programming is presented in schools, at community centres and at the Girls Inc. day camps. Like the after-school programming, the topics covered during the sessions are fundamentally life changing. Topics include, but are not limited to, bullying, Internet safety and media literacy. According to Belch, the Girls Ed. programming serves 900 girls each year. Young women with complex needs are aided by the Girls Inc. Smart Start program, which is designed to help women overcome barriers to education and employment.

Lexi - After School Program

During a period of 22 weeks, this intense employment readiness program — which has gone through 13 rounds — helps young women work toward career success and ultimately, financial independence. “This is moving girls from a position of where they’re not able to take care of themselves, and oftentimes, their children,” says Belch. “I have seen them move from that position into a situation where they’re employed. Many go back to school and they’re taking care of themselves and their family. They’re very proud and happy; it’s an amazing thing to see.” The program boasts an astonishing success rate; 96 per cent of girls who have gone through the program have established successful careers for themselves. “It is absolutely life changing, there is no question about it,” says Belch. Girls Inc., however, remains gracefully humble. “We don’t take credit for that,” says Belch. “It’s the girls doing it. They come in here and they work really hard because they want a better life for them and for their families.” Girls Inc. also offers the “Girls on Fire” group mentoring program, which experienced ample

April & Allison - Work Placement Program

achievement in 2015. In response to that success, it’s now a core agency service that is a great way for girls and women to get together for fun and meaningful activities in the community, says Belch. In the past, groups have gone to hockey games and to the theatre. “A lot of women really want to volunteer and work with the girls in a meaningful way; this gives them a fantastic opportunity to do that.” The Participants While the statistics behind Girls Inc. provide solid evidence of its achievements — the more than 1,400 females that receive programming each year, for starters — it’s the girls and women it has helped that give the program a voice and define what it’s accomplished. “Smart Start has done dozens of great things in my life,” says 19-year-old Allison, a Smart Start program participant. “One of the biggest ones is it gave me freedom. It has helped me learn how to support myself without the help of anyone.” Lexi, 10, says, “At Girls Inc., I learn about my body health and how we shouldn’t bully because it’s hurtful and makes people feel excluded. I just love Girls Inc. I love the volunteers, group leaders and everybody there.”

Lindsey Belch, executive director of Girls Inc. Limestone.

Your contribution can make a difference in the lives of many girls in the Limestone City; donate now to help Kingston’s young women be smarter, stronger and bolder. Visit www.girlsinclimestone.ca for more information on programming and to contribute. RK

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out for

SUMMER What to See and Do With Your Children This Season By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

If you’re a parent or caregiver, you’re likely devising ways to get your little ones out of the house before you drive each other crazy. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. The best part? All these mini-vacays are just a short drive away from the Limestone City — so you’ll only have to listen to the kids whining, “Are we there yet?” a few times. 50

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Upper Canada Village - Morrisburg From Kingston: Approximately one hour and 30 minutes by vehicle uppercanadavillage.com A perennial favourite, Upper Canada Village transports its visitors back in time to the 1860s. It’s an authentic, immersive experience that amazingly depicts life in a rural English Canadian setting with more than 40 buildings. Among these structures (which were moved to Upper Canada Village prior to flooding of the “Lost Villages” during the St. Lawrence Seaway development project), are homes, functioning mills and trades workshops. Costumed interpreters are on site to answer any questions you or your kids might have about what life was like all those years ago, making this not only a fun experience, but an educational one, as well. Tip: Check out the park’s Civil War Reenactment Weekend, which takes place Aug 6-Aug 7. Ontario Science Centre - Toronto From Kingston: Approximately two and a half hours ontariosciencecentre.ca No summer vacation is complete without a trip to a museum — and the Ontario Science Centre promises lots for everyone to see and do. Home to countless interactive experiences for science and technology buffs, the Science Centre welcomes more than one million people each year. If you have children under eight, be sure to check out the Science Centre’s KidSpark, where wee ones and their caregivers can build their own rollercoaster and blow giant bubbles. If your kids are older, the Weston Family Innovation Centre lets them experiment with projects. Tip: Until Sept.5, check out some of the world's most perplexing optical illusions, investigate incredible examples of body modification and celebrate the life and legacy of Robert Ripley.

The Aquatarium - Brockville From Kingston: Approximately one hour by vehicle aquatarium.ca The Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing just opened in March, but is already establishing itself as a great place to experience hands-on, interactive exhibits and native wildlife. Engaging visitors in the “distinctive history, culture and environment of the 1000 Islands,”

The Aquatarium “seeks to rekindle a passion for learning” allowing kids and adults alike the unique opportunity to get an up-close look at the diverse animals and natural wonders of the 1000 islands region. Tip: When you’re done, be sure to visit one of the city’s restaurants, or just grab an ice cream cone to cool off.

African Lion Safari – Hamilton From Kingston – Approximately three hours and 40 minutes by vehicle lionsafari.com Go wild at the African Lion Safari. Known as Canada’s “original safari adventure”, African Lion Safari lets you and the kids to get up close and personal with lions, giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, and exotic birds from all over the world from the comfort of your own vehicle. (If you don’t drive, there’s a Safari Tour Bus available for an extra charge.) There are various bird and animal performances that take place throughout the day on a firstcome-first-serve basis, including a birds of prey ReFINEdKINGSTON

flying demonstration, and a performance that showcases the amazing strength of elephants.

African Lion Safari – Hamilton

– Approximately three hours It’sFrom an Kingston educational and wildly entertaining and 40 minutes by vehicle experience you and your kids wont forget lionsafari.com anytime soon. Tip:Go If you have a nut Safari. allergy, Known beware:as wildoratyour thekids African Lion theCanada’s park is not“original nut-free. safari adventure,” African

Lion Safari lets you and the kids get up close and personal with lions, giraffes, rhinos, Santa’s Village Entertainment Park the cheetahs and Family exotic birds from all over Bracebridge world from the comfort of your own vehicle. From Kingston: Approximately four hours by (If you don’t drive, there’s a Safari Tour Bus vehicle (bring some snacks for the road!) available for an extra charge.) santasvillage.ca

There areSanta various bird and animal performances The place unwinds before getting geared that take place throughout the day firstup for Christmas, Santa’s Village touts on itselfa as come-first-serve including a birds of prey being a “children’sbasis, amusement park that has it performance all.”flying Withdemonstration, everything from and rides aand a beach tothat a showcases the amazing strength ofliveelephants. splashpad, playground, entertainers, animals and delicious food, the park hold true to its It’s anThere educational and wildly entertaining promise. are even options for pre-teens or experience and at your kids won’t forget adults who are you still young heart.

The Aquatarium - Brockville

anytime soon. Be sure to visit the jolly old man while you’re there — Tip: he isIfalways for a kids chat have with kids, loves you orup your a and nut allergy, having his the picture them. If your little beware: parktaken is not with nut-free. ones wish, they can write a postcard to Santa and he will reply by Christmas.

Santa’s Village Family Entertainment Park -

Tip: Don’t forget to bring swimsuits and towels — Bracebridge there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dip in the From Kingston: Approximately four hours by Muskoka River after a day spent at an amusement vehicle (bring some snacks for the road!) park.

santasvillage.ca

Where isSanta before geared Kingston just a unwinds short drive awaygetting from plenty of up forparks, Christmas, Santa’s theme museums and Village beaches.touts Hereitself areas a “children’s amusement has it a being few more ideas to help you withpark yourthat summer all.” Withplanning. everything from rides and a beach vacation

Science Centre - Toronto

to a splashpad, playground, entertainers, live animals and • Niagara Falls delicious food, the park hold true • Calypso Water There Park are even options for preto its promise. • Sandbanks Provincial Parkstill young at heart. teens or adults who are • Butterfly Conservatory • Ripley’s Be sureAquarium to visit the jolly old man while you’re there — he is always up for a chat with kids, and

If you get his away, don’ttaken forgetwith about lovescan’t having picture them.allIf the your local treasures we have right here in our ownto little ones wish, they can write a postcard backyard like the Pumphouse Steam Museum; Santa and he will reply by Christmas. Canada’s Penitentiary Museum; the MacLachlan Woodworking Museum and Fort Henry. RK

Tip: Don’t forget to bring swimsuits and towels — there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dip in the Muskoka River after a day spent at an amusement park.

African Lion Safari – Hamilton

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D E V

O R PP

SafePlace Place AAtoSafe experience new things Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos: Stephen Wild Additional Images courtesy of the Boys and Girls Club of Kingston and Area

It’s utterly extraordinary — magical, really — when a building exudes life with the contagious laughter of children. But that’s exactly what happens at the Boys and Girls Club of Kingston and Area. The hallways are constantly buzzing with excitement. At any given time, the rambunctious sounds of a basketball game will fill one room, while the familiar strains of a fairytale being read to wee youngsters can be overheard in another. It’s a perfectly enchanting place to be — and each day, it’s the second home to hundreds of local children and youth. 54

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guarantee financial goals will be met. It’s partly why the club has introduced a series of social enterprise initiatives, from which all proceeds go into the programming offered at the Boys and Girls Club of Kingston. “With our tremendous growth we now have a $3-million operating budget,” says Deanna Davies, director of resource and development. “None of our money is guaranteed. We are not a guaranteed government-funded business like many think; we are continually applying for funding. We are very fortunate to have so many opportunities and partnerships. We know we need to find sustainability, so our innovative leaders decided to be unconventional and create social enterprises.” Bricks 4 Kidz Bricks 4 Kidz in-school workshops, after-school programs and camps build on the universal popularity of LEGO bricks to deliver highquality, educational play to children. Children aged five to 13 are introduced to the principles of S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) through hands-on, educational and engaging play, explains Colleen Brick, manager of education programs. “It aligns perfectly with our mission statement where we’re trying to give kids a safe place to experience new things, and it really fits in nicely with our educational programs,” she says. “It’s really, really fabulous.” Themes vary, and will pique the interest of every young learner. Whether the child’s interest lies in space, sports or music, “there’s a theme for everyone,” says Brick. Archery Zone A brand-new addition to the Boys and Girls Club of Kingston and Area, the Archery Zone allows participants to “indulge their inner Rambo and Katniss fantasies.”

A Vital Mission The Boys and Girls Club mission — to provide a safe and supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life — is carried out each and every day by the staff, volunteers and the board of directors at the Boys and Girls Club. “We know that children deserve the opportunity to lead active and healthy lives,” says Peter Kingston, president of the board of directors. “We also know that we are making a difference each and every day for the children in our club and community. That is a wonderful feeling.”

With a wide variety of programs, including after school care, camps and workshops, more than 4,000 children and youth from all economic, social and cultural backgrounds are led to discover their dreams and reach their full potential each year. Social Enterprise Initiatives In order to continue helping young Kingstonians become the very best they can be, the Boys and Girls Club must meet fundraising goals each year. Government grants and donations alone cannot

“It’s a lot like dodgeball, except you use foamtipped arrows,” says Jeff Helsby, manager of programs. “I think it’s a really cool, new and active thing to do in Kingston. There’s not a ton of stuff to do for adults; this is a great way to stay active and try a new sport.” The best part is that the sport is for everyone, assures Helsby. “You don’t have to be athletic, or have to have shot a bow before,” he says. “Anyone can come in off the street and play and be a pro at it.” ReFINEdKINGSTON

“We know that children deserve the opportunity to lead active and healthy lives.” Peter Kingston, president of the board of directors Following a quick 15-minute instruction period, groups of eight to 16 are guaranteed an hour of fun-filled, active play, says Helsby. Inflatable Play Planning a birthday party, family reunion or other special event, and want to ensure kids can burn off their endless energy in a fun, safe way? The Boys and Girls Club has the perfect solution with their inflatables. “We have a huge spectrum of inflatable products,” says Kerri Gunter, coordinator of Kids’ Zone. A wrecking ball inflatable guarantees tons of friendly competition, while the Cars and Disney Princess enclosed jumpers offer safe play for wee ones. Athletes will love the obstacle course theme inflatables, while those who love the carnival feel will enjoy the TIC TAC Throw inflatable. No matter which inflatable is chosen, hours of fun play are guaranteed, says Gunter. “It’s not competitive; it’s just to have fun. And it’s great for family events, because it brings the whole family together.” The best part? It’s hassle-free for the host or hostess. All staff are fully-trained and qualified to operate the inflatable devices, and they remain onsite during the entire rental period. Other add-on services include, face painting, party gifts and balloon twisting.

West End Club House Frontenac Mall Kingston 1300 Bath Rd., Kingston 613.507.3306 bgckingston.ca

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events KINGSTON

Kingston Buskers Rendezvous Downtown Kingston July 7-10 Come Play By the Lake 8 Domino Theatre July 8-9 “I Feel the Winds” Music Festival Various locations July 11-14 Pull Together for Epilepsy 2016 Memorial Centre July 17 Limestone Genre Expo Kingston Frontenac Public Library July 23-24 The Wolfe Island Music Festival Wolfe Island Aug. 7-8 The Tragically Hip – Man Machine Poem Tour Rogers K-Rock Centre Aug. 20 1000 Islands Poker Run Aug. 19-21 Motorcycle Ride for Kids Supporting the Boys & Girls Club Aug. 21 Limestone City Blues Festival Downtown Kingston Aug 25-28 Do you have an upcoming event you’d like to be featured? Submit it to kate.refined@gmail.com

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CITY LIFE

The Woolen Mill Experience Showcasing a Historical Kingston Landmark By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild It was 1882 when a four-story, red brick building was built along the banks of the Cataraqui River by a group of Kingston businessmen who needed a place to produce cloth. Fifty years later, the building was purchased by the City of Kingston and served as a woolen mill under the lease of the Hield Bros. of England. The business thrived during the Great Depression and the war, only to close in 1966 after the development of synthetic materials. For years, it sat deserted. Dilapidated and vandalized, its days as a bustling business became only a vague memory to Limestone City residents. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until Abna Investments, who purchased the building in 1993, employed H. R. Doornekamp Construction Company to refurbish the Woolen Mill and turn it into the breathtaking Kingston landmark it is today.

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TheThe Woolen MillMillis iscurrently Woolen currentlyhome hometotomore morethan than 4040 businesses, including a luxury spa, incredible businesses, including a luxury spa, incredible restaurant restaurantand anda aclimbing climbinggym. gym.On OnMay May 15, 15, thethe businesses businesseshosted hostedthe thefirst-annual first-annualWoolen Woolen MillMill Experience Experiencetotoshowcase showcasejust justhow howfar far the the 134-year-old building has 134-year-old building hascome. come. With such a wide range With such a wide rangeofofbusinesses businessesinhabiting inhabiting its its historic walls, historic walls,thetheWoolen WoolenMill Millis isaavital vitalpart part of of Kingston’s business Kingston’s businesscommunity, community,and andyet, yet,many many people peopledon’t don’teven evenknow knowit’sit’sthere, there,says says Rick Rick Frasso, a member WoolenMill MillExperience Experience Frasso, a member ofofthetheWoolen steering committee.“It’s“It’sa ahidden hiddengem,” gem,”hehesays. says. steering committee. “TheDoornekamps Doornekampstook tookanan old old depilated depilated “The building and time,money moneyand andeffort effort building and putput a alotlotofoftime, maintain muchofofthe theoriginal originalflavour flavour intointo it toit to maintain asasmuch of the could.” of the millmill asas thethe could.”

The are still still there, there, he he says, says, The original original wood wood floors floors are well preserved by many years of oil. The building well preserved by many years of oil. The building also 12-foot ceilings ceilings and and also features features its its original original 12-foot spectacular “The Doornekamps Doornekamps have have spectacular brickwork. brickwork. “The done keeping up up the the historical historical done aa great great job job of of keeping nature as opposed opposed to to putting putting nature of of the the building building as up Frasso. “There “Thereare arevery very upaafancy fancy high-rise,” high-rise,” says says Frasso. few Kingston and and Ontario Ontario few buildings buildings like this in Kingston where original flavour flavour ofofthe the where they they have have kept the original building building like like they they have.” The Woolen Woolen Mill Experience — The — which which featured featured barbecue, a ribbon cutting aa barbecue, cutting done done by by Mayor Mayor Bryan Paterson, Paterson, live music, activities Bryan activities for for children, children, local artists artists and and artisans displaying local displaying their their work work andguided guided tours tours of the historic and historic building building——wasn’t wasn’t originally meant meant to to become become such originally such aa large, large,hugely hugely anticipated event, event, explains explains Frasso. anticipated Frasso. ItIt simply simply started as a way for all of the building’s tenants

to get as to a know “meet your neighbour” started wayanother; for all ofathe building’s tenants occasion. However, it quickly blossomed. “There to get to know another; a “meet your neighbour” were four of us discussing the event, and occasion. However, it quickly blossomed. “Therewe decided to invite the whole instead,” were four of us discussing thecommunity event, and we says Frasso. “We didn’t realize how big it was decided to invite the whole community instead,” going to get.” says Frasso. “We didn’t realize how big it was going to get.” The steering committee, which consisted of Frasso, Jill Claire, Joey Su and St. Germain, The steering committee, whichTracy consisted of couldn’t be more the event Frasso, Jill Claire, Joey thrilled Su and with Tracyhow St. Germain, turned out. “It’s really shown couldn’t be more thrilled with how how the the Kingston event turned out. “It’s how says the Kingston community canreally comeshown together, Frasso. “To community can come together, “Tojust tell you the truth, I can’t wait forsays nextFrasso. year. It’s tell you the truth, I can’tand waitbetter.” for nextRK year. It’s just going to be bigger going to be bigger and better.”

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FOOD & DRINK

four sliders

that are big on taste

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beef

chicken

4 slices bacon 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 3 pounds lean ground beef 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Salt and pepper 24 small dinner rolls

In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels. Discard all but two tablespoons of bacon fat. Cook onion in bacon fat until translucent, about three minutes, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds longer. Remove mixture

from pan and let cool. Crumble bacon when cool enough to handle. In a large bowl combine beef, bacon, onion mixture, Worcestershire sauce and salt and pepper, and mix well. Form into 24 small patties and chill.

4 chicken cutlets 1 cup teriyaki marinade 1/3 cup mayonnaise 1 large clove garlic, grated Dash salt Dash ground black pepper Nonstick grilling spray 4 slices fresh pineapple 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese, quartered Lettuce, optional Combine chicken and teriyaki marinade in recloseable food storage bag. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, stir together mayonnaise, garlic, salt and pepper in small bowl; set aside.

vegetarian

pork 12 ounces extra-lean ground pork 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup) 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 1/2 ripe peeled avocado 2 small ripe tomatoes, sliced 8 small Bibb lettuce leaves

Combine pork, parsley, salt, and garlic powder in a medium bowl, gently mixing with hands. Divide mixture into eight equal portions, shaping each into a 1/4-inchthick patty. Lightly coat both sides of patties with cooking spray.

Place chicken and pineapple slices on grill grate; grill on both sides or until chicken is cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and pineapple is browned lightly.

Combine lemon juice and avocado in a bowl; mash avocado with a fork, and stir to combine. Spread avocado mixture evenly over bottom halves of buns. Place one patty on each bottom bun. Top each with tomato slice and lettuce leaf. Top with top halves of buns. Serve immediately.

1/2 red onion, finely diced 6 button or baby bella mushrooms, diced Salt and Pepper 1 15-ounce can kidney (or black) beans, well rinsed and drained 3/4 cup cooked quinoa 1 Tbsp chili powder (or sub cumin) 1/2 cup raw walnuts, crushed or ground into a loose meal (divided) OPTIONAL: For even more flavour, add a shake of vegan worcestershire or A-1 sauce when adding the chili powder Yeld: 10 Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add a bit of olive oil. When hot add the onion and slowly sauté, season with salt and pepper. When the onions are soft turn up the heat to medium and add the mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms and onions are slightly browned and fragrant. Remove from heat and add beans and mash. You’re looking for a rough mash, so

you can leave some whole or halved if you want. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl, add the quinoa, chili powder or cumin and stir. Lastly, add the walnuts a little at a time until the mixture is thick and malleable enough to form into patties. Pop in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to cool. Once chilled, form into eight small patties. Cook longer to dry them out even more and achieve more crisp .

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winning wines FOR YOUR SUMMER BARBECUE By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

ere in the Limestone City, barbecue season is finally upon us. Not sure what type of wine will best complement your next meal al fresco? These tips from Brian Hanna, the in-house sommelier at Huff Estates Winery, will ensure you can say, “Cheers!” with confidence. Before you set out to purchase the perfect beverages for your barbecue, determine the most important influence on the dish — it could be a flavouring ingredient or it might be the way it’s cooked, says Hanna. “A given food poached, baked, fried or grilled will find at least four different styles of wine to suit it,” he says. “The same food served with a cream sauce, a spicy salsa, a sweet fruit sauce or a tangy vinaigrette will find another four styles. Think about the overall weight of the dish, determine its strongest flavour and play to its strength.”

Chill your white wine quickly by placing the bottle in a bucket filled with half ice and half water. And remember: the sweeter the wine, the cooler it should be served.

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“Above all else, remember matching wine and food is trial and error. Just try not to be too clever and refrain from opting for high-alcohol behemoths when it’s 30 C. Refreshment is the key.” Brian Hanna, Sommelier Huff Estates Winery

Salmon Steak

If you’re serving up a mouthwatering steak, choose fuller-bodied red wines laden with tannin, which are the chemical compounds found on the grape skins as well as those from the toastiness of the oak barrel aging. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec and Zinfandel are good picks, says Hanna, because the blood in meat contains iron, and the tannin counterbalances the taste and “mouth-feel.”

If you want to round out a grilled or planked salmon dish, opt for lighter-bodied reds, such as new world Merlots and Pinot Noirs, explains Hanna. If you prefer a white, go with whites with brisk acidity that can cut through the richness of the fish, advises Hanna. Sauvignon Blanc, Verdejo, Albariño, Assyrtiko, Riesling and Vinho Verde are all good picks.

Chicken

If chicken is on the menu, you’re in luck. “Chicken on the grill can beckon a host of wines — white, rose and red,” says Hanna. However, if you want to display your pairing prowess, opt for crisp whites, dry roses and lighterbodied reds.

Ribs Are you ravenous for ribs? While Hanna says red is the best option, keep in mind very few reds can stand up to ribs with potent barbecue sauces, rubs and marinades. “The heat will virtually annihilate the virtuous flavours of the wine, accentuate its alcohol content and befuddle the brain,” he says. His advice? Go with beer.

Dessert

Sweet and satisfying, no barbecue dinner is complete without a dessert. This course, too, is deserving of a special wine chosen especially for it. While volumes have been written on this subject, says Hanna, he has one rule of thumb: the dessert wine must be sweeter than the dessert. If you’re serving a fruit-based dessert, choose a late harvest selection. If you’re craving a chocolate dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth and round out your meal, Hanna recommends a fortified wine like LBV Port, Madeiras or Vins Doux Naturels.

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three

rubs

dry

SPANISH 2 Tbs sea salt 1 Tbs smoked paprika 2 oranges, zested and juiced 2 Tbs chopped flat leaf parsley TEX MEX 1 cup ancho chile powder 1/3 cup smoked paprika 3 Tbs dried oregano 3 Tbs dried mustard 3 Tbs dried coriander 1 Tbs cumin 1 Tbs salt 1 Tbs black pepper zest of 2 limes

for maxium flavour

MONTREAL 2 Tbs paprika 2 Tbs crushed black pepper 2 Tbs kosher salt 1 Tbs granulated garlic 1 Tbs granulated onion 1 Tbs crushed coriander 1 Tbs dill 1 Tbs crushed red pepper flakes Directions. Combine ingredients, rub all over your gorgeously marbled beef slabs (think ribeye, strip and sirloin) and pop it in the fridge (two hours max) to soak up all those beautiful flavors. Cook in cast-iron skillet or grill on the barbecue to desired doneness. Tip: For the juiciest steak possible, salt your beef after youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve cooked it. ReFINEdKINGSTON

business

Pita Pit A Kingston Success Story

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Courtesy of Pita Pit

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Nelson Lang still remembers rolling his first pita in 1995. At just 25 years old, the young entrepreneur — who’d just opened the door to the very first Pita Pit in downtown Kingston — couldn’t have begun to imagine just how bright his future would be. That very first customer, a young Queen’s University student who ordered a chicken pita, was the first of what’s become thousands, perhaps even millions, of Pita Pit customers that span the globe. “It seems like just yesterday,” said Lang during a recent visit to Kingston to train new franchise owners. “We’ve always wondered how we could track her down and thank her for coming in and ordering the first pita.” With a total of 600 locations around the world, there’s no denying the Pita Pit has become a global phenomenon with legions of fans. In order to meet customer demand, 100 franchises are opening up each year. Even more incredible? Within the next four years, the Pita Pit will be serving up its motto of “Fresh Thinking, Healthy Eating” in more than 1,000 locations. It seems Lang and his former business partner John Sotiriadis were onto something when they decided to open a business focused on serving up fresh and healthy alternatives to the unhealthy, fattening food that reigned supreme in the mid-90s. And lucky for us Kingstonians, we get bragging rights knowing the business got its start in our city. “We just always liked Kingston, it’s a beautiful town,”

said Lang. “I hadn’t spent any time in Kingston until we opened the very first Pita Pit there and I just fell in love with the city.”

original pitas, but are also allowed to serve pitas that are in keeping with their culture,” he says.

Lang admits the first few months in business were challenging, with 18-hour long workdays and tough competition from other businesses in the area. “We were doing $300 days,” he acknowledges. “But we always used to say, ‘Make that pita like you’re making it for your mom. If you’d eat every single pita you send out the door, then you’re doing something right.’”

While the delicious ingredients have played a huge part in the Pita Pit’s success, the people behind the franchises are equally important, says Lang. He points out that while the company could have seen faster growth over the years, he’s very discriminating when it comes to selecting franchise owners. “I surround myself with people who think the same way, and I think that’s been one of the major reasons for success,” he says. “We’re very, very picky on who we let into the system. In Canada, we turn away almost 90 per cent of the applicants because we want to make sure we have the right people.”

With that in mind, the Pita Pit began its steady expansion across Ontario, opening locations in cities such as London and St. Catharines. It was only a matter of time before the restaurant began to make a name for itself around the globe; it’s now internationally adored. If you get an insatiable craving for the Pita Pit’s Babaganoush in New Zealand, you’re in luck. If you’re visiting India and have a craving for their chicken souvlaki, you’re all set. They also have locations in the U.S.; Australia; Brazil; France; England; Panama; Singapore; Trinidad and Tobago; Dubai and Saudi Arabia. Recognizing the markets in Canada and the United States vary greatly from international franchises, the Pita Pit allows franchise owners to tweak the menu; to use ingredients and sauces customers will be familiar with. “In New Zealand, they have shaved carrots, beat roots and lamb. They’re allowed to have the

It’s a special group of people that get to be a part of the business, he continues. “If you’re not a people person, the Pita Pit is not the right business for you. You need to be behind the counter, talking to your customers and working with your staff. And our franchisees need to be a community ambassador, a marketer, an accountant... a little bit of everything.” This summer, the Pita Pit is celebrating 21 years in business, proof that dedication, hard work and a fresh, innovative idea set the foundation for a solid, successful business. There’s no telling how far the Pita Pit will go; how many locations they’ll open around the world. But one thing is for sure: they’ve transformed how people think of “fast food” and will continue to do so for years to come.

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Survivng Your Office Job This Summer Can't stand the thought of watching summer through the office window? Don't quit your job - follow our advice to make your office job bearable this summer. Many of us are stuck watching summer go by through an office window, the air conditioner blasting, the dreaded words, 'it's so nice out, you should get outside' echoing in our heads. Fortunately, there are simple changes you can make during the day to take advantage of the perfect weather outside.

Stand up and stretch. If you don't have time to get out of the office every 90 minutes, use the opportunity to stand up and stretch instead. Stretching is a great way to increase energy levels, reduce muscle tension and get your body moving. Stretch in front of a sunny window, it will lift your spirits.

Bike or walk to work. Start off your mornings energized and ready to take on the workday. Opt to bike or walk to work. If you have to take public transportation, get off a few stops earlier to squeeze in some light exercise before 8 a.m.

Take a walk during conference calls. Conference calls are the perfect time to be active. Put clients and coworkers on speaker, or use your mobile phone during meetings to move around without any trouble.

Coffee-break outdoors. Arrange to have your coffee break outside. As little as five minutes will rejuevenate you. Get up and get out of the office once every 90 minutes. When you're nose-deep in work, it's easy to lose track of time. Set up reminders on your phone or email every 60-90 minutes to get up and get outside. Walk to the nearest coffee house, sit under a tree or just enjoy the sunshine for five or ten minutes. Ask questions and discuss issues face-toface. Rather than sending an email every time you have a question, go to your coworker's office to discuss the issue face-to-face. This gives you a good excuse to get moving and a chance to more effectively hash out solutions in person. Better yet, text to arrange to meet outside for a few minutes. Use your lunch break to get outside. So many of us today work through our lunch break. When possible, take advantage of this time to walk outside and soak in the nice weather. Fresh air and vitamin D are often all you need to stay focused and push through the afternoon slump.

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Hold a meeting outside. Many coworkers will welcome the opportunity to stand and stretch their legs for a moment. If you have a two-person meeting, consider going for a walk. Work from home. If at all possible, work from home during the height of summer. Productivity increases when you are relaxed and happy - working from your deck will definetly increase productivity. The four day week If you are the boss, consider implementing a four-day week during the summer months (July and August). Not only will you increase employee loyality, you will also see a decrease in sick days on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons. Summer in Kingston seems to fly by; if you work in an office all day it may feel like you miss summer all together. Making a point to get outside throughout the day puts you on the right track toward wellness. RK

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EXPERT ADVICE IT support

Cloud Backup Solutions Are For Ever yone

Wil Cleland Web Department Response I.T. Many people hear the word “Cloud” and instantly have assumptions about what it means. When we combine “cloud” with “backups” it can confuse the matter further. So let’s define the terms, the question and then answer it. What is a Cloud Backup Solution? Cloud=Hosted. Simply put, a Cloud Backup solution is a backup solution (software based) that is uploading your backed-up data to a hosted system or data centre, ideally after it is encrypted. Why is Cloud Backup something I would benefit from? Here are the top five reasons you should consider Cloud Backups for your important business and personal data: It’s Simple Setting up Cloud Backup software is a typical installation like any other program or game. You run it, click through the options to install and once you complete the installation, you’ll typically be brought to a “setup your backups” section of the program. It’s Automatic Automation means you can set it and forget it. Good backup software is designed to automate the tasks and alerts, to make sure

you are constantly up to date with your backups. This eliminates a whole slew of stress. It’s Affordable There aren’t many companies with an unlimited budget, and small businesses are right in this niche. The importance of having an affordable solution for ensuring data security and integrity is colossal. Cloud backup solutions are an affordable and predictable expense. Your Secure Data is Accessible Anywhere Having your data in the cloud means access from anywhere is possible and disaster recovery can happen when and where you need it. As long as there is an active connection to the Internet, you will always have access to your files. This includes when you are on a trip and suddenly experience a much-dreaded disaster. Off-Site Data Storage It’s extremely important to keep copies of your important data offsite. Even if files are backed up onsite with a USB stick, HDD, or even a file server, a natural or unnatural disaster or theft could destroy your hardware and thus your data. Keeping your data secure in the cloud will ensure your data is safe, no matter what happens to your computers and devices. Safe, Secure and Inexpensive Backups All this being said, there are a lot of great reasons to not only back up your systems, but also make sure those backups are stored safely, encrypted offsite.

Response I.T. 6 Cataraqui Street, Suite 111, Kingston 613.549.5568 www.responseit.ca

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Keep Your Cool Staying Warm in a Freezing Office By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough It may be sweltering outside, but if you work in an office, it’s likely you’re freezing inside. Here are some tips so you can pack away the portable heater you keep hidden beneath your desk for those days when your office resembles a giant freezer.

The Classic Cardigan The most obvious solution is to tuck a lightweight sweater or cardigan into a tote bag before you leave the house in the morning or stash a couple in your desk drawers. If you purchase a few in some solid colours (black and white are safe bets), they’ll be your best friends throughout the entire summer. The Blazer A women’s blazer is a versatile piece of clothing that looks great when paired with everything from jeans to pencil skirts. Grab one in a cotton material; it’s a natural fibre that breathes. Another bonus? They wash well. If you want something with a little more bulk, opt for a blazer in denim. You’ll be able to wear it throughout the entire summer and into the colder months. The Scarf Whoever invented the lightweight summer scarf is brilliant. They not only serve as a colourful and fun accessory, they can do double duty as a wrap. There are all kinds of tutorials online if you want to experiment with different ways to tie them, but if you prefer, just drape it over your shoulders for some instant (and stylish!) warmth. The Shoes Who doesn’t want to wear fun, strappy heels now that summer is here? I know I do. But sadly, it’s often the feet that get cold first. Tuck a pair of cute closed-toe shoes beneath your desk for those days when the cold air is too much for your tootsies to handle. The Pants While nothing beats a pretty, flowing sundress on those hotter-than-hot days, sometimes, keeping your legs covered is the only way to stay warm at the office. Rather than standard slacks, channel your inner Audrey Hepburn and opt for a stylish ankle pant. Shop around to find the right length for your body, and avoid flared styles. Generally speaking, the closer the hem is to your ankle, the slimmer the pants need to be. RK

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motoring

Focusing By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

hether you like things “just so” or simply want to be rid of all those Cheerios your toddler kindly left behind for you in the backseat, there’s something about getting your car detailed that feels luxurious — but it shouldn’t. Car detailing not only enhances the aesthetics of your vehicle, it also improves the overall condition of it in ways you might not have considered before. Here are some things to ponder before attempting a do-it-yourself-scrubdown; sometimes, it’s best to leave things to the professionals. You regularly get your vehicle’s fluids changed, so why would you ignore your vehicles cosmetic features? A properly done detail job

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involves paint care; this can be tricky when you’re not quite sure what you’re doing. It can take time and patience to properly apply a wax and/or a sealant to return your car to its original shine. If your day leaves you precious few free minutes, or you lack the fortitude to do it properly, leave it to someone who does. Road salt is damaging; and Kingston’s unpredictable winters bring lots of it. While it makes our roads much safer during the harsh winters, road salt is tough on our vehicles. Given the opportunity, the salt will continue to build up over time in wheel wells and under your vehicle’s chassis — don’t give it the chance. Over time, dirt and grime from the roads will make your headlights dimmer. Have you ever

on the

Details Detailing Your Car

been driving at night, struggling to see ahead of you? Road deposits could very well be the culprits. Properly done car detailing will ensure your vehicle’s headlights and taillights are free of dirt and grime — making those late night ice cream runs much safer this summer. If you regularly use your car (as most of us do) the interior will begin to show wear and tear over time. Taking your car to a trained car detailer will ensure your vehicle’s interior is meticulously clean. It might not seem all that important to those who don’t mind a little dust, but it is. If you let Fido ride shotgun, it’s even more important. Just think of all the dirt, dust and grime on those paws that can cause insufferable odours. Do you leave your windows open during the summer? Pollen will

undoubtedly make its way into your vehicle, causing very uncomfortable allergy symptoms in some people. According to the World Health Organization, allergies are ranked fourth on a list of the world’s most common chronic conditions, and dust mites account for 70 per cent of all respiratory allergies. See? Car detailing is nothing to sneeze at. Car detailing can improve the resale value of your vehicle. If you’re planning on selling your vehicle anytime soon, it should go without saying that a meticulously clean car is important. Who wants to inherit a vehicle that has not been properly cared for and maintained? A well-done car detailing is a small investment that can have a big payoff. RK

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CARSTAR Kingston (Limestone) 152 Hickson Avenue Kingston 613.546.2272

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EEXPERT X P E R T ADVICE ADVICE banking

banking

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A Gisele Godfrey GiseleLoans Godfrey Officer LoansLimestone Officer Credit Union Ltd. Limestone Credit Union Ltd.

Why You Want a Pre-Approved Loan for Car or Recreational Vehicle Purchase.

re you in the market for a new or used vehicle, camper trailer or boat?

What should you evaluate in your car or recreational vehicle buying options? Make sure to take into consideration the benefit of a pre-approved loan before visiting the dealership or buying from a private seller. Five-year term loans and 84-month amortization loans are becoming popular with borrowers, allowing purchasers to keep payments as low as possible. Longer amortization offers you greater financial flexibility and keeps your payment low — allowing you to afford an unexpected financial emergency in the future. These loans allow you to apply your extra cash flow to a different use, i.e. RRSP, RESP or TFSA contributions.

Buying a new car or recreational vehicle is a major decision. Longer amortization offerings can sometimes result in making a purchase that you can’t afford. Don’t lose sight of your future financial picture, i.e. job security, children’s post-secondary school education, etc. Before purchasing a camping trailer or RV, consider the following buying tips: Try camping or RV life before you buy into it. Are you ready for the lifestyle? Consider additional costs. Have you calculated your insurance premiums, camping ground fees, maintenance fees, or winter storage fees? Be ready to walk away. Don’t be fooled by “too good to be true” offers. If buying privately, verify there are no liens on the vehicle being purchased.

Limestone Credit Union 572 Princess Street, Kingston 613.548.4094 limestonecu.com

A pre-approved loan allows you to do your research based on how much you can afford and gives you buying power at the dealership. It prevents you from getting too excited, which can result in an impulse purchase. Make a budget and stick to it. If a loan or credit repayment is not carefully budgeted, it can lead to financial strain. You may be unable to make your payments. Before making your new purchase, give us a call to help you determine how much you can realistically afford. Limestone Credit Union offers attractive loan rates at competitive rates. Do not hesitate to call either one of our branches to preapprove your next purchase. Enjoy a safe summer!

Limestone Credit Union 501-4499 Bath Road, Amherstview 613.634.3875 limestonecu.com

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flex your muscles Ultimate Sports Cars By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

“If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough.” ― Mario Andretti

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Staking its claim as “the most powerful muscle car on the planet,” the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat boasts a mind-boggling 707 horsepower engine guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go.

The crème de la crème of the automotive world, luxury supercars allow drivers to take the wheel in ways that are anything but standard. Here, we look at a few rides guaranteed to get your motor running.

An aggressive, sexy car, it features a supercharged 6.2-litre engine — the “most powerful production V8 engine ever,” says the company. Drivers are able to choose between a new HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission or manually shift gears with a Tremec six-speed transmission. And the options don’t end there; choose between Nappa leather with Alcantara inserts and ultra-premium Laguna leather. Take your pick; either way, you’re guaranteed the ride of your life. Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang Your eyes may be on the road, but when you’re in this car, all other eyes will be on you. According to the company, “From the signature HID headlamps to the standard signature LED Tri-bar tail lamps, the 2016 Mustang attracts attention from every angle.” Does it ever. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the car’s naturally aspirated 5.2-litre, 90-degree V8 engine with a flatplane crankshaft, magnetic ride control and carbon-fibre wheels. And if you just appreciate a seductively sexy car, you’re all set with this beauty. It’s modeled after the classic Mustang fastback, its design sleek and sporty enough to attract drivers of all kinds. Dual exhaust pipes come standard, and enhance the look and performance of the car. Those into customization will love the ability to choose from a long list of options, including 12 available wheel designs.

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Chevy Camaro It was April when a highway patrol officer clocked an unidentified man from Minnesota hurtling 171mph down the highway in his 2016 Chevy Camaro, proving just how fast this set of wheels can fly.

Corvette Stingray

Boasting a “strong yet sophisticated design,” the company says the 2016 Camaro stands out in every way possible — and there’s no denying it’s true. Designed to improve airflow and performance, the car is aerodynamically “chiseled to perfection,” says Chevy. It has a roof that features a stylish reverse Mohawk channel, and lift-reducing stanchion spoiler, among other qualities. And that’s just the exterior. Inside, the car screams style. With features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an available eight-inch radio touch screen and tailored stitching, drivers will no doubt be noticed and envied wherever they choose to go. Corvette Stingray Take control of the road in a bold and daring way with the 2016 Corvette Stingray. According to Chevrolet, it’s the “quickest, most powerful, most refined Stingray ever made.” A “perfect driving machine” its performance epitomizes precision and it features brilliant engineering. Every element of the provocative design serves a purpose, says Chevrolet, from functional exterior vents to intelligent driver controls.

Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang

It’s features the world’s fastest-acting suspension, and 6.2 litre V8 engine. Drivers can choose between a seven-speed manual with active rev matching, or available eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission. Take your pick: the road is yours. There’s a Stingray for every driver, with design packages that take customization to a whole new level. Depending on your style, choose between Twilight Blue, Spice Red or Jet Black Suede packages. If you’re into technology, you’ll love the Stingray’s performance data recorder. It lets drivers log drive videos with real-time performance data onto a SD memory card so they can improve driving ability. Someone else behind the wheel? Don’t fret. Valet mode, which also records video and data, gives you peace of mind. RK

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AT H O M A TE H O M E

Life at the Lake Purchasing and Renovating Your Dream Cottage By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

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Someone once said, “Wilderness is not a luxury, but a necessity of the human spirit.” Although Someone once said, “Wilderness is not a luxury, this may be true, there’s nothing wrong with a but a necessity of the human spirit.” Although little bit of luxury when it comes to your dream this may be true, there’s nothing wrong with a cottage tucked away in the great outdoors. little bit of luxury when it comes to your dream cottage tucked away in the great outdoors.

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PURCHASING YOUR PIECE OF PARADISE So you’ve made the decision to purchase a cottage — a place for some much-needed rest PURCHASINGand YOUR PIECE OF relaxation, andPARADISE somewhere to reconnect with So you’ve made friendstheanddecision family. to purchase a cottage — a place for some much-needed rest and relaxation,Before and somewhere reconnect with for your homeyou sign ontothe dotted line friends and family. away-from-home, there are a few things you should consider first, says Pierre Nadeau, owner of Nadeau Before you signInc. onBrokerage. the dottedWhat line for yourwaterfront home- like? Is there is the away-from-home, there are a few thingsWhat you should a good septic system? is the drinking water consider first, says Pierre Nadeau, owner of Nadeau situation? Inc. Brokerage. What is the waterfront like? Is there a good septicWith system? is the indrinking water thoseWhat questions mind, it’s great to know as situation? you set out to find the perfect cottage that 2016 is a great year to make such a life-changing purchase. With those questions in mind,market,” it’s great know as “We have way “It’s a buyer’s saystoNadeau. you set out to find theinventory perfect cottage thatPrices 2016still is remain stable more than buyers. a great year toand makeare such a life-changing purchase. actually showing strong growth in values for “It’s a buyer’s market,” says Nadeau. our specific market.” “We have way more inventory than buyers. Prices still remain stable and are actually strong growth other in values for a little more If showing you or a significant needs our specific market.” convincing, know this: a cottage is always a great investment. “Waterfront tends to definitely hold its If you or a significant otherhere,” needs little more“We consistently value around saysa Nadeau. convincing, know always great every year. seethis: twoa cottage to three isper cent aincreases investment. “Waterfront tends definitely hold its and with rates That makes it a to really safe investment value around here,” Nadeau. beingsays so low now, it “We only consistently makes sense.” see two to three per cent increases every year. That makes it a LET really safe investment and BEGIN with rates THE RENOVATIONS being so low now, it onlypurchased makes sense.” If you’ve a quaint fixer-upper, it’s crucial to set a budget for the imminent renovations. LET THE RENOVATIONS “The most BEGIN important item to think about [before If you’ve purchased a quaint fixer-upper, crucialand combining renovations take place] isit’s budget to set a budget for research,” the imminent that with say renovations. Marc-Antoine and Crystal “The most important itemowners to think [before Charette, of about Charette Custom Homes. “It’s renovations take place] istobudget andyour combining important research property’s wants and that with research,” Marc-Antoine and who Crystal needssay and hire a contractor is able to tell you Charette, owners ofyou Charette Custom “It’s of budget.” what can and cannotHomes. do in terms important to research your property’s wants and needs and hireIt’s a contractor to tellthe youwalls of a home hard to tellwho whatis able is behind what you can and cannot do terms of budget.” or cottage, saysin the couple, and this can lead to some costly renovations. “It’s important to do your It’s hard to tell research what is behind the your wallslimitations,” of a homethey warn. and know or cottage, says the couple, and this can lead to some costly renovations. “It’s important your If you are thinking about atoDIYdojob, you might want to research and know limitations,” warn. — and one whom think your again. “Hiring a they professional has renovated before — can save you unexpected If you are thinking about a DIY job, you might want to think again. “Hiring a professional ReFINEdKINGSTON — and one whom 81 has renovated before — can save you unexpected

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delays and surprises along the way,” say the Charettes. “There is usually warranty involved with a contractor and of course safety is of utmost importance.” It’s important that you expect the unexpected when it comes to renovating a cottage. “Depending on the age of the structure, many problems could arise as you begin to take down walls,” say the Charettes, who have renovated plenty of homes and cottages since starting their company in 2007. “You could find mould, electrical and plumbing issues that require updating, dry rot, etc.” This is what can lead to costly renovations, say the contractors. “But if you have done your research and planned for some hiccups along the way, you can work with your contractor to come up with a plan in repairing these issues correctly and in a budget-conscious way.” THE FINISHING TOUCHES Once you’ve wrapped up renovations, it’s time to personalize your space. Before you begin, consider when you’ll be spending the most time there, says Tanya Syllas, an interior design professional with Reid & Siemonsen Design Group. “For instance, if the cottage is being used during the summer months, a more coastal/lakeside retreat would be suitable,” she says. “But if it will be used year round, cottage owners may want to evoke a more cosy vibe for nestling close to the fire.” When it comes to design essentials, hard wearing fabrics, furnishings and durable flooring is a must, explains Syllas. Look for fabrics that are weather tolerant and fade resistant for the most use. Is your home-away-from-home lacking space? Consider purchasing some Murphy beds or bunk beds. “They are a great solution for overnight guests when bedrooms are at a premium,” says Syllas. When it comes to paint colours for rooms within the cottage, stick to light and airy shades to help open up the room. Ultimately, says Syllas, the interior design of your cottage should reflect your personality. “This is a place where you can break the rules and just have fun.” RK

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“The interior design of your cottage should reflect your personality. This is a place where you can break the rules and just have fun.” Tanya Syllas, Reid & Siemonsen Design Group

TREND TALK

GREEN ENVY Green with Envy! Reid & Siemonsen is bringing the outdoor fresh, crisp greens inside.

1. The Watercolour Palms by Mercana is the perfect accent to bring your own tropical paradise inside.

2. Cooking Apple Green by Farrow & Ballis a classic shade. It always feels charmingly familiar, and like all greens, creates the feeling of health and vigour. It has a rich, old-fashioned appeal in darker situations, but becomes fresh and pretty with a botanical twist in well-lit rooms and when contrasted with a bright white.

3.Soothing eucalyptus, basil and sage are infused with fresh mint in this uplifting blend. Warm notes of exotic spice add depth and distinction to a truly unforgettable fragrance. Mint Tisane candle by Luxury Articles & fragrance Company.

4.Bring the outdoors in with this crisp and cool Hemma toss cushion from Surya. Available in seven colours, it's shown here in grass-green.

5.The Doreen chair by Canadian manufacturer Silva furniture is upholstered in Kravet Fabric Latika, in the colour Pool.

6. The Oppland Table Lamp by Cyan Design has a beautiful combination of artisan-crafted glass in fresh blue/ green combination.

Reid & Siemonsen Design Group 350 Bagot Street, Kingston 613.548.7891 rsdesigners.net

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ALL DECKED OUT Designing and Building Your Outdoor Reteat

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

Looking to transform your outdoor living space this summer from boring and bland to functional and fabulous? ReFINEd Kingston has you — and your deck — covered. 82

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Call in a Pro and Obtain Permits It can be tempting to DIY on a Saturday with a beer and some buddies, but it’s not something to be rushed — consider hiring a professional. While you may pride yourself on your building prowess, it’s not as easy to build a deck as you might think. They are structures that not only need to withstand harsh Canadian winters, they also need to safely hold the weight of people and objects. Improper design and construction can lead to decay and rot.

Once you’ve lined up a contractor, obtain a building permit if one is needed. The City of Kingston requires a permit to be issued prior to starting construction for decks greater than 600mm (2 ft.) above ground level to deck surface. Before you scoff, don’t discount the importance of permits. They exist for a reason; the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors estimates that of the 45 million existing decks, only 40 per cent of them are completely safe.

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Designing Your Space Outdoor living space not only enhances your home’s overall aesthetic appeal, it can also increase its resale value. Therefore, its design is not something to be taken lightly; come up with a plan that will meet your needs now and in the future. Together with your builder, come up with a plan that not only considers the angle of the sun throughout the day, but what the space will be used for. Will you barbecue on it? Do you want a hot tub? Will you be hosting large gatherings? This will help you not only determine the size of the deck, but the shape and the material you use, as well. Decking Material If you thought decks were made solely of wood, think again. There’s a variety of options to choose from including pressure treated wood (it’s affordable and durable); composite material (depending on the type you choose, this material can withstand mould and mildew; be fade, scratch and water-resistant; and be low-maintenance) and cellular PVC (this material is ultra low-maintenance, resists mould and mildew and is split, scratch and stain resistant). Do your due diligence to determine

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what material is within your budget, and understand that cheaper does not always mean better; using low-cost materials now might end up costing you more money in the future. Cover It Up When the sun is at its strongest, you’ll be thankful for an outdoor living space that provides you with some shade. Yes, we wait all year long for the sizzling summer months, but if you have a south-facing deck, it’s simply going to be too hot to enjoy. If that’s not enough to convince you, consider that a cover will protect your expensive furniture from the elements.

Fabulous Furniture When it comes time to relax, you want furniture that is going to meet your needs. Will you use the space for relaxing? Dining? Entertaining? If you’re planning on simply using the space to sip on a cold glass of Pinot Gris or a beer with some friends, a chat set is a perfect option. If you enjoy eating al fresco during the summer months, you’ll want a dining set to make meal time less messy. Just want to curl up with a juicy novel? Consider a hammock or a lounger to maximize the benefits of your chill time. Just remember to try before you buy: you don’t want to end up with furniture that’s uncomfortable. Deck Out Your Deck

If your budget is tight, an umbrella is your best bet. They come in a wide variety of bright colours, and they’re mobile. Perhaps the most popular is an awning; they’re simple to install, cast a large area of shade, are available in a wide range of colours, and can be adjusted throughout the day depending on the angle of the sun. If you want to incorporate nature, a pergola paired with climbing vines and plants is an absolutely stunning option. Clematis is a safe bet, as it’s easy to grow. Want to really punch it up? Plant some climbing roses for a breathtaking display of colour.

No outdoor living space is complete with a few accessories to amp up its look. Choose a colour scheme and carry it throughout the entire design (think throw pillows, potted plants, candles and wall art), for a unifying feel. Purple and orange will be eye-popping and lavish, while yellow and black packs a powerful punch. Want the outdoor space to have a laid-back vibe? Blue and orange is a good choice. If you enjoy a softer, elegant look, try pieces that feature mint and pink shades. RK

E EXPERT X P E R T ADVICE ADVICE financial financial

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A D a n MacWhirter M a c W h i r t e r PFP PFP Dan I n v e s t o r s G r o u p Investors Group

Passing on Passing on Your Your Family Family Cottage Cottage The Hand-off It’s the simplest play in a football coach’s playbook. But as any sports fan knows, even the simplest play can go wrong for any number of reasons. The same could be true of your family cottage hand-off. It has been in your hands for years and years of fun times with the people you love. But, the day will come — maybe sooner, maybe later — when you will want to hand-off your cottage to others, probably your adult children. In our beautiful area of Kingston, Frontenac and the Islands, there are a lot of us who need to make sure we understand the process. To help you avoid potential obstacles like excessive taxation and maybe even some surprising opposition, here’s how to perform a cottage hand-off that ensures it will stay in your family’s hands for a long time.

Call the Right Play A successful hand-off starts with everyone on your “team” being on side. Yes, your adult children have always enjoyed the cottage — but will they in the future when you’re no longer around? Talk to your children now and if there are those who do not want ownership

responsibilities, you can help avoid future family squabbles by ensuring they are treated fairly in your will.

Elude Potential Blockers Plan now to manage potential tax liabilities when you make the hand-off. Unless you’re passing assets to a spouse or common-law partner, when you die you’re deemed to have disposed of your capital assets at fair market value — meaning that if your cottage property has appreciated, your heirs could face significant tax on capital gains realized. A less-taxing hand-off: Transfer the property to your kids while you are alive, either as an outright gift or by selling it to them at fair market value (selling for less can result in double taxation.) If you sell the cottage for fair market value, make the payments receivable over a five-year period and claim the capital gains reserve, so that only 20 per cent of the capital gain is taxable in any one year. Regardless of whether you gift or sell, consider whether the principal residence exemption should be claimed for all or a portion of the years the cottage has been

owned. Alternatively, transfer the property to a trust, with your kids as beneficiaries. This transfer option will also trigger an immediate capital gain but future capital gains on the property will accrue to your children and are not payable until they sell the property. Ensure your hand-off covers cottage capital gains — and other estate debts — with permanent life insurance. The death benefits are usually tax-free and can provide an essential source of cash to pay taxes resulting on death so your family won’t be forced to sell assets, such as your cottage. Of course, your cottage hand-off should be an essential part of your overall financial and estate plan, so talk to your coaches (your professional and legal advisors) about what’s best for your game plan. If you aren’t working with a coach, call me. I will help you set up your game plan. This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Québec – a Financial Services Firm), and Investors Group Securities Inc. (in Québec, a firm in Financial Planning) presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advisor for specific advice about your circumstances. For more information on this topic please contact your Investors Group Consultant.

Kingston Rideau St. Lawrence 100 -1000 Gardiners Road, Kingston 613.384.8973 investorsgroup.com ReFINEdKINGSTON ReFINEdKINGSTON

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2016

BEST OF THE BEST

Photos Stephen Wild

As the ReFINEd Kingston team began working on our summer issue — the Best of the Best edition — the three of us began chatting about what makes our city so special. For our publisher, Cathie, it’s the authentic passion and pride people have for the city, and the amazing individuals that make up our community. For Jacqui, our account executive and designer, it’s the entrepreneurial spirit so many have that has made our city such an exceptional destination. For myself, it’s being part of a city that distinguishes itself with a multitude of incredible events that make our community feel like just that — a community. Whether you’re partial to the lifestyle the Limestone City offers, the incredible views our waterfront provides, or the plethora of restaurants and shops our city has, one thing is for sure: none of it would be possible without the people. We’re so incredibly lucky Kingston is bursting with the absolute best in businesses and services — they are the true essence of the community. This issue highlights a few of these businesses in the following Best of the Best section. Whether you’re looking for the very best spa in which to enjoy a day with your girlfriends, hair salon to get your next fabulous cut and colour, or an interior designer to help you fashion a home you love, look no further. The following pages highlight some of the finest businesses that truly make Kingston itself the best of the best. We hope you enjoy! Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough ReFINEd Kingston Magazine Editor-in-Chief

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Index Automotive Dealership Taylor AutoMall Hardware & Building Supply Gananoque Home Hardware Residential Cleaning Service All Ways Clean Butcher Shop & Deli Barriefield Market Granite & Counter Tops Cataraqui Granite Ladie's & Men's Fashion Chris James Luxury Appliances FW Black Remote Plumber Godfrey Plumbing Heating & Cooling Haven Home Climate Care

Tattoo Artist Ink Tegrity

Furniture & Home Decor Jacob Nathan

Flooring Kingston Carpet World

Mortgage Broker Kingston Mortgage Solutions

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Personal Concierge Prestigious Lifestyle Management & Concierge Service

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Makeup Artist Pro Makeup Coach

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Custom Jewelry Design Rebecca Geoffrey

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Interior Designer Reid & Siemonson Design Group

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Landscaping Services Lasting Impression Landscape Construction

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Accounting Services R.E. Neulander & Company

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Life Coach Laurie Hannah

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Education Consultant Spotlight Learning

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Disaster Restoration Paul Davis Systems

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Home Builder Sobella Homes

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Plumbing & Bathroom Renos Plumbing Plus

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Hair Studio TG. co Hair Studio

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Spa Touch of Wellness

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BEST of the BEST automotive dealership

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Taylor AutoMall A Drive to Offer Variety, Value and Vision Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough, with files from Taylor AutoMall Photos Stephen Wild and Taylor AutoMallMall

The year 1963 has long been dubbed as “the year everything happened.” U.S. Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, U.S. President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, and “Beatlemania” got its start. It was also the year 27-year-old Jerome Taylor became the youngest Canadian to own a car dealership without the benefit of family connections.

all of the turmoil Chrysler was experiencing, Taylor decided to steer his business in a completely new direction. He purchased a GM dealership deep in the city core, and reintroduced it to Kingstonians as Taylor Chev Olds Cadillac. It was an instant winner.

It came to be after he’d been given the somewhat daunting opportunity to take over a floundering Chrysler dealership; a oncein-a-lifetime chance to get a struggling business on its feet once again. It was a mission he handled with fortitude, a strong will, and old-fashioned hard work.

By 1988, the need to expand once again became evident. Taylor opted to purchase property situated at the corner of Princess Street and Centennial Drive, and built the modern and sleek Taylor AutoMall that Kingstonians know today. The booming business added a Saturn dealership in 1991 that operated until 2009, when the Saturn brand ceased to exist.

With the faltering business in his young, entrepreneurial hands, Taylor executed a brand-new strategy: one that focused entirely on the customer. His forward-thinking approach worked. Within three short months, the dealership was back on track.

Along with his other business, Limestone Auto Body, the Taylor automotive landscape was a complete package.

His fate was sealed, and he never looked back.

An Expanding Business By 1967, all that hard work had paid off, and the business began an expansion. He secured a new location at 1429 Princess St., and Kingston Dodge Chrysler was opened, where it still stands today. With Taylor at the helm, the business continued to thrive. But by 1979, Taylor decided it was time to make a change. With

27-year-old Jerome Taylor became the youngest Canadian to own a car dealership without the benefit of family connections.

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A Family Affair Upon receiving a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Dalhousie University in 1995, Jason Taylor joined his father’s prosperous business, managing the Saturn dealership. “I was 24 and it was a great opportunity for me,” he says. “The dealership was very small, only a few employees, and I could go in there and really work hard and make a difference. And, a side benefit was that people who worked at the ‘big’ store, Taylor Chev Olds Cadillac, could see I was a hard worker and could have a positive impact on the business.” After two years of managing Saturn of Kingston, Jason was appointed Director of Operations. Following in his father’s businessminded footsteps, he oversaw all aspects of the popular dealership. Despite his beloved father’s sudden and unexpected passing in 2006, Jason was determined his hard-earned legacy lived on. “It was a tough day when my dad died,” reminisces Jason. “He worked hard his whole life. When I had the opportunity to buy the dealership from the estate, I knew I had the pressure of continuing what he started. And he started from scratch, with nothing.” Jason says keeping his dad’s dream alive is what he would have wanted. “I would say when most people talk about Taylor AutoMall even to this day, one of their first thoughts is Jerome Taylor because he had such an impact on this business and such an impact on Kingston in general. I would like to think he would be proud of what we have done the last 10 years and how the dealership looks. My Mom says he would be very proud, so that is good enough for me.”

An Unparalleled Customer Experience In 2009, General Motors, after streamlining the business, emerged from bankruptcy and closed many dealerships. The Taylor AutoMall was selected to serve as Kingston’s exclusive GM dealership. At the same time, they were awarded the Buick & GMC franchises in January 2010.

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“I would say when most people talk about Taylor AutoMall even to this day, one of their first thoughts is Jerome Taylor because he had such an impact on this business and such an impact on Kingston in general.” Jason Taylor

As a result of continued growth, Taylor AutoMall completed extensive renovations in 2012 in its ongoing effort to continuously improve its delivery of services to its customers. “Like any business, we have to keep moving with the times,” says Jason. “Today’s customers are very discerning and they expect the best, and they should get the best. I will invest in anything…staff, software, equipment, renovations, inventory…that will make the overall experience for the customer a better one.” Jason says he’s proud to say the dealership has been in business since 1963, and he plans to remain in the city for a very long time still. But at the end of the day, he recognizes it wouldn’t be possible without his clients. “The customer rules and without them, we are nothing. So our focus has always been about not just having satisfied customers, but enthusiastic ones who love to come back for all their sales and service needs.” RK

Taylor Auto Mall 2440 Princess Street, Kingston 613.549.1311

taylorautomall.com

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let renovating get the best of you.

Local. Trusted. Experts.

khba.ca

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BEST of the BEST hardware & building

Homeowners Helping Homeowners Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild Since 1964, Canadians from coast-tocoast have come to appreciate the expert advice found at the more than 1,100 Home Hardware Stores that span the country. A beloved cornerstone of every community they are in — including the location in Gananoque — Home Hardware stores offer an alternative to pervasive big box ideologies that put profit ahead of patrons. “We offer customers a different shopping experience,” says Ken O'Connor, owner of the Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre. “Our service, I think, is second to none. We react on a dime when issues come up, because we are locally owned and operated. So the buck stops here with me. If there is an issue with a customer, we make sure it gets rectified immediately.” Home Hardware Stores Limited is Canada’s largest dealer-owned hardware, lumber, building materials and furniture cooperative. The company — owned by independent small

business operators — works under one of four banners: Home Hardware, Home Hardware Building Centre, Home Building Centre and Home Furniture. “We’re in every ‘Ma-and-Pa’ community,” says O'Connor, “and because we’re all independently owned, we all care about people, about our communities. We treat you very, very well; it’s almost like a handshake when you’re dealing with Home Hardware.” At an astounding 84,000 square feet, Gananoque’s Home Hardware Building Centre “offers a little bit of everything,” says O'Connor. Whether you’re renovating a bathroom, planting a garden, craving some sweet jam and uniquely flavoured coffee, repainting your master bedroom or furnishing every room in your home, you’ll find exactly what you need in store. And if you don’t, rest assured it can be ordered for you. “People always come in and say, ‘Wow! I have never seen a hardware store

that has all this stuff!’ says O'Connor. “There are lots of products; the shelves are always full. It’s truly a one-stop shop.” Authorized STHIL Dealership Recently, Gananoque’s Home Hardware Building Centre became an authorized STHIL dealership. A German manufacturer of chainsaws and other handheld power equipment, including trimmers and blowers, STHIL’s incentive, “To ease peoples’ work with and in nature,” is carried out through each of the products they offer. The company’s innovations have set the benchmark for the industry time and time again, and O'Connor is proud to offer the highly sought-after equipment to his customers. “It’s a really high-quality product,” he explains, adding that his customers are pleased it’s now in stock. “Sales in STHIL have gone through the roof.”

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A small-engine repair shop on-site ensures there’s always specialized mechanics on hand if any issues happen to arise. Home Furniture Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre is truly a family affair. O'Connor’s daughter, Kenzie, works hand-in-hand with her father to offer customers a wide selection of furnishings in the 12,000 square foot Home Furniture section of the store. Everything from casual sofas to formal tables, as well as a selection of major appliances and accessories are available in a no-pressure sales environment that customers have come to love. There’s an accessories and appliance gallery by Frigidaire, which specializes in highquality, energy efficient kitchen and laundry

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appliances, as well as a wide selection of Canadian furniture. Palliser, which is known for its wide variety of sofas, sectionals, recliners, chairs, sofabeds and home theatre seating, is one of the lines the O'Connors are proud to offer to their customers. There’s also an assortment of Canadian-made Decor-Rest furniture, which offers sofas, chairs and loveseats in both fabric and leather, as well as a collection of barstools and tables from Amisco, and a mixture of sofas and chairs from Stylus, a company based in Burnaby, British Columbia. If it’s a good night’s sleep you’re after, Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre also offers mattresses from Sealy Canada and Tempur-Pedic.

Gourmet at Home While scrumptious jellies and tangy barbecue sauces aren’t typically found stocking the shelves at hardware stores, O'Connor likes to do things a bit differently. The Gourmet at Home offers customers a mouthwatering selection of more than 60 barbecue sauces, including options from Wildly Delicious, Hot Mammas and The Garlic Box. It also offers a wide assortment of jams and jellies, including some from Village Gourmet and Perth Pepper and Pestle. If your morning pancakes aren’t complete without some sweet syrup, try Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre’s selection of Turkey Hill Sugarbush’s maple syrup. And be sure to round out your meal with a steaming cup of coffee; Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre offers more than 150 varieties of K-Cups for .59 cents each.

If you’re a fan of Wilton Cheese Factory (who isn’t?), there’s a selection of fresh curd delivered every other Wednesday. Drive-Thru Lumberyard Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre is proud to offer customers a state-of-the-art drive-thru lumberyard — the only one of its kind in the area. “We have built up a reputation that our quality of lumber is second to none,” says O'Connor. “We pay a premium for it, and every piece is usable. Contractors love it; they can get it on-site and they don’t have to go through all the pieces to find product that they can’t use.” Community-Minded Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre is proud to be part of one of Eastern Ontario’s most stunning waterfront communities — and it shows. “Whenever we think of doing anything, for fundraising or whatnot, it’s always with our community in mind,” says O'Connor.

The store is proud to support the town’s community gardens (they maintain their own plot, as well, with all produce being donated to the Gananoque Food Bank), the 1000 Islands Playhouse, and they also run a monthly breakfast club at Linklater Public School. “We really look at our community as part of our store,” says O'Connor, mentioning the store’s weekly information sessions and barbecues that run throughout the summer months. All proceeds from these evenings are donated to the community, he says. One-of-a-kind Products, One-of-a-kind Service Perhaps Walter Hachborn, one of the company’s founders, said it best: “Home Hardware was created by and for independent dealers who believed in a community that would serve the Canadian hardware retail industry’s common good. That kind of principle is as solid a foundation as

you can have for succeeding in business, because it attracts good people. Our dealers — and everyone else who works for Home Hardware — are driven by more than just the bottom line. They care about building friendships, helping people and serving their communities. That spirit is what defines Home Hardware on the Canadian retail landscape.”

Gananoque Home Hardware Building Centre 875 Stone Street North, Gananoque 613.382.3386 homehardware.ca

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BEST of the BEST residential cleaning

All Ways Clean Your Home is in Good Hands By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

you want your residential or commercial property to be the kind of clean that only comes from a team of specialists, All Ways Clean guarantees your satisfaction.

“We are a high-quality service offering a wide variety of cleaning and organizational options.” Laura Simpson, owner/operator

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A locally owned and operated high-end cleaning and maintenance company, All Ways Clean offers its reliable expertise in both residential and commercial spaces. “ We wow our clients ever y time,” says owner Laura Simpson, who began the company in 2012. “We are a high-quality service offering a wide variety of cleaning and organizational options.” With a dedication to uncompromising quality, All Ways Clean meets clients’ individual needs and offers regularly scheduled cleanings on a daily, weekly, biweekly or monthly basis. The company also provides occasional or one time cleaning

services, which is especially useful for local realtors as they help sellers prepare their homes for the market. The company has seen massive growth in the past year, adding multiple vehicles and staff members to the team. “Other companies only offer one small facet of what we do...like carpet shampooing, or window cleaning,” says Simpson. “We can do almost anything in the house from closet organization to pre or post-construction cleanup.” The All Ways Clean crews arrive at clients’ properties with all the supplies necessary to ensure a thorough cleaning. The company uses the newest in Dyson vacuum technologies. They also use commercial grade Swish and Cintas cleaning products, which are not available

for direct purchase. Rather than paper towel products, the company uses microfiber cloths, and employ a colour-coded system in order to eliminate any chance of cross contamination. Simpson’s large crew, a young, vibrant and energetic team, works 24 hours a day, seven days a week in order to offer clients fast turnaround time. “The entire team genuinely cares about their work, and always goes above and beyond to provide exceptional results,” says Simpson. “Whether it’s taking the family pet for a stroll around the block or running an extra load of laundry, the team makes sure they do something special at every property. Any cleaner can come in and scrub your bathroom, no problem. But we really try to add that loving extra touch every time. Our clients are wowed when they come home, and we leave treats, too!”

For Simpson, it’s important All Ways Clean makes its clients’ experience a memorable and special one. “We get to know the family’s needs,” she says. “ We want to know everything about our clients and their properties. We create a unique experience for every client and pride ourselves on customer satisfaction.” “All Ways Clean did such an amazing job on my home,” says client Britt Tulk. “I am so beyond pleased! I did not think it could be this clean ever again. They organized, de-cluttered and beautified on top of all of the deep cleaning they did in one day. I hope they will come back again; I would be more than pleased to continue using their services! I highly recommend [them].”

“I don’t think I have ever seen our house so spotless,” says client Ashley Fielding. “Everything sparkled! This is the best cleaning business around.” RK

For an exceptional cleaning experience guaranteed to sweep you away, call All Ways Clean to schedule your appointment today.

All Ways Clean 613.572.0432 allwayscleanservices@live.com allwayscleanservices.com

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BEST of the BEST butcher & deli

Barriefield Market savour the flavour

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

t’s the Friday afternoon before the first long weekend of the summer, and customers are lined up out the door at the Barriefield Market. Eager to acquire the perfect cut of meat for their grills, these customers know owner Tim Greenlees doesn’t cut corners when it comes to the wide range of products he offers.

itself as the go-to butchershop in the Limestone City. Customers come from as close as the village of Barriefield itself, and from as far as Toronto and Ottawa. Dedicated carnivores, it seems, are not afraid to go the distance when it comes to quality meats. Dry-Aged Beef

“I buy the best products that are available,” says Greenlees. “I’m not the most economical guy in town, but we’re not the most expensive, either. We are in line with most major supermarkets, but we buy all the best stuff. We buy the upper-end products because it yields a better end result. I want customers’ steaks to be the best every single time they take it home. I don’t want you to have five good steaks and then one bad one. I like to keep it consistent.” That consistency has paid off in dividends. Today, the Barriefield Market has established

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Three years ago, Barriefield Market began offering customers premium Ontario dry-aged beef. Aged a minimum of 30 days in a dryage cooler, temperature and humidity are controlled to yield the highest flavours. The end result is a succulent cut of meat that quite simply melts in your mouth. “The process brings out and intensifies all the flavours in the beef,” says Greenlees, holding up a well-marbled example before wrapping it up for a shopper to take home. “It gives you an outstanding taste.”

Local Produce, Grocery and European Deli Just minutes from downtown Kingston, Barriefield Market is much more than your average butcher shop. While it offers a preminum selection of quality meats, it also serves up delicious made-to-order sandwiches perfect for lunch or dinner on-the-go, as well as salads and soups made in-house every day. It’s also become known for its plethora of local produce and fine selection of cheese wheels from Ireland and England. “Our goal is to have everything for you,” says Greenlees. “People are more apt to stop if they can pick up a salad, fresh produce, and their meals from the same place. We try to offer the full package.”

Second-To-None Customer Service Grilling Guide A native Kingstonian, Greenlees comes from a well-known family of butchers, but he’s managed to establish a solid reputation on his own, with a business that has been built on a dedication to quality products and excellent customer service. A self-described “people person,” Greenlees knows many clients on a first-name basis. It’s what he loves most about his job. “I like the people,” he says. “At the end of the day, that’s what it’s about. I like to know everyone’s interests, what they like. Here, we all know regular customers. We are very personable. We’re big on customer service.” If you’re seeking the perfect cut, Barriefield Market is hard to beat; it’s the place to find everything you need for a dinner you won’t forget. RK

Hoping to perfect your barbecuing technique? These tips, courtesy of Tim Greenlees, will help you master the grill in no time at all. -Remove your steaks from the fridge at least one hour before placing them on the grill. -Avoid slathering barbecue sauce on the steaks; this disguises the flavour. Opt for a simple rub or seasoning, instead. -Sear the steak at a high temperature, and then turn down the heat to finish the meat to your desired doneness.

Barriefield Market 760 Highway #15, Kingston 613.547.2223 barriefieldmarket.com

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BEST of the BEST granite & stone

Polished Elegance

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

ong revered for its timeless beauty, granite has become the foremost choice for those wanting to add value and style to their homes — and Mark Tomlinson, owner of Cataraqui Granite, helps people do just that. Tomlinson has been in the business since he was a student, falling into a job at a monument company during summer break one year, and never leaving. There was just something about it he loved, and although he can’t quite nail down what that “something” was, his passion for the craft — which has only continued to grow stronger since opening his own company in 2002 — is palpable. “It’s this indescribable passion… it’s an addiction. I love knowing I made someone’s house look that good. Some of the jobs we do are just phenomenal.” In keeping with the company’s preeminent products and installers, Cataraqui Granite also works with elite, revolutionary equipment.

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Their CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine has completely transformed the way the company produces its granite products, allowing them to precisely cut stone in any shape, as well as mill, drill and scribe it — and it can do it quickly. Whereas Cataraqui Granite used to take an entire day to complete one kitchen, the staff can now easily do three, sometimes four kitchens in the same amount of time. “This machine literally produces a kitchen within an hour,” explains Tomlinson. “And it will fit perfectly; we’re not having to cut into people’s walls to make the counter fit.” Granite: Beautiful and Durable A beautifully unique stone that meets the discerning demands of today’s homeowners, granite continues to be the top choice for many homeowners — and for good reason. “It’s because of its durability but also because of

its natural beauty,” explains Tomlinson. “It is a natural rock, from the inside out. It’s been made by Mother Nature over millions of years, that’s literally what it is.” Granite allows homeowners to enjoy their space without the worries of damaging their countertop; it won’t scratch, and even with regular use, it won’t show the wear and tear other surfaces are prone to. It can withstand the heat of a boiling pot, and endure the blades of sharp knives during food preparation. And because granite is comprised of many different minerals, the colour of granite varies greatly, allowing homeowners to choose a slab that beautifully complements the colour and design of any room in their home. The most commonly found rock, granite is mined around the world. The soaring mountains of Brazil, however, are where

most of the breathtaking slabs found at Cataraqui Granite come from. While some stone is shipped to China after being cut from the mountainside in blocks, most of the granite Tomlinson favours is shipped to Italy to be finished. “The Italians are very good at finishing stone,” he says. “They’ve been doing it for hundreds of years, and yield much better results.” Quartz – A Stunning Alternative While granite continues to be the most popular choice, it’s not for everyone; those seeking uniform colour appreciate the consistency quartz provides. A man-made product, it’s no-maintenance and non-porous, does not require sealing and is stain-resistant. Cataraqui Granite carries quartz from top manufactures, including: Q from MSI, Hanstone, Caesarstone and Zodiac. If you’re seeking a locally-owned company small enough to care, but big enough to provide excellent quality for your next project, call Cataraqui Granite. RK

“We really care about what we do, and we really care about our customers — we truly do,” says Tomlinson. “We try to make people happy no matter what it takes, and we really love them being happy and the kitchen being beautiful. We love the stone we work with; we’re very passionate about it. We do our best to always give a great end result.” Mark Tomlinson, owner Cataraqui Granite

Cataraqui Granite Co. 2400 County Rd 38, Kingston 1.866.728.3998 (Toll Free) 613.389.3998 office@cataraquigranite.com cataraquigranite.com

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BEST of the BEST ladie's & men's fashion

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serious style DEFINING CONTEMPORARY STYLE

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Lauren Kauffman

At Chris James, the art of dressing is made easy. Its owners, Christine Ray-Bratt and Jim Adams — who are both Limestone City fashion icons in their own right — have meticulously curated both a men’s and women’s collection equal parts striking and practical. “Womenswear is as much our focus as menswear,” says RayBratt, adjusting a display showcasing a beautifully detailed Elisa Cavaletti dress. “It makes for a unique experience for all of our shoppers.” A Shifting Focus Now in its sixth year of business — the wellappointed boutique, a limestone gem situated in the heart of downtown Kingston — continues to exceed its customers’ expectations. They’ve developed a loyal following throughout the years, and for good reason. “We’re always adapting to our customers’ needs as their lifestyles change,” says Ray-Bratt. “Whether they are going from the working world to retirement world, from being a student to working at their first job, or even just looking for great items to seasonally update their everyday wardrobe, we have really tried to make sure we have something for your work, days off and special occasions in between." As such, Ray-Bratt and Adams have closely examined how they fit into the fashion market in Kingston, and adapted accordingly. “Now that we’ve been open for five years, we’re more in tune with our brands and market needs,” explains Ray-Bratt, who has years of international experience managing global luxury brands in Asia. “So we have re-defined a few things.”

A Diverse Selection of Respected and Adored Brands At once inviting and warm, the store — with a staff admiringly knowledgeable on styles and fits — now carries a marvelously diverse collection of clothing, from coveted suiting and separates from Tiger of Sweden, to performance driven clothing by Lacoste. With a myriad of brands to choose from, RayBratt and Adams specifically choose brands to carry in the store, like Lacoste clothing for example, that will take wearers effortlessly from a round of golf to celebratory drinks afterwards and beyond. “You’d want to wear it in the clubhouse after a round,” she says. “Their collections go beyond just sportswear and streetwear to combine both. We really aim for value in the products we offer. Items that style well, wear well, wash well and will last years with proper TLC — that's value.” Men wanting to make a fashion statement while they’re out on the town should check out the store’s unmatched collection of Bugatchi shirts, ties, pocket squares and socks. Women wanting to make an impression at the office will appreciate Chris James’ Ted Baker Collection. Widely known for its expertly tailored suits, knits and dresses, Ted Baker designs embrace the unique feminine silhouette and ensure women can easily make the sometimes problematic transition from day to night. Chris James also offers clients an expertly designed in-house label making waves all over the city. Women are raving about the cashmere sweaters designed by Ray-Bratt, who is a cashmere aficionado. Meanwhile, male customers are enthusiastically donning

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custom cut suits skillfully fashioned by Jim Adams. “It’s very exciting to be able to take it to that next step,” says RayBratt. “It’s about offering the quality we want to stand behind.” Adams is particularly thrilled to now be able offer clients Chris James' branded line of men's shoes and accessories. "We've been working on this for some time. After seeing so many goods in the market and buying for so long, you know exactly what pieces are needed to complete the package. We wanted to have control over the whole process from colour, pattern, quality and price. It just makes sense." Effortlessly Stylish Offering such a multitude of brands to their clients (Chris James carries nearly 100 different brands in stock at any given time), shoppers are able to easily assemble an elegant and tasteful ensemble with next to no effort. “Because we carry so many different brands, customers don’t have to go from store to store to put together an outfit,” says Ray-Bratt. “So many clients just love how everything is all right here. We know what tops and bottoms will work together from different companies and it makes it really easy for people to be in and out with a complete outfit in no time at all.” Knowing Chris James possesses such a wide and wellcurated inventory, customers regularly travel from larger urban cities like Toronto and Ottawa, knowing they can find everything they need in one place, says Ray-Bratt. “We really are a one-stop shop, and people appreciate that. We recently had one woman come in from Ottawa who looked everywhere for a summer suit, and she wasn’t having any luck. She came here, and found everything she needed. It’s great to be able to win over customers like that. That's why we do what we do.” RK

Shot on location at Tango Neuvo Tapas & Wine, Springer Market Square and The Dessert Indulgence Ltd.

DEFINING CONTEMPORARY STYLE

253 Ontario St, Kingston 613.541.0707 chrisjameskingston.com

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BEST of the BEST luxury appliances

F.W. Black Ltd.

The First Choice for Appliances in Kingston Since 1949 Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

anadians heavily rely on major household appliances. In fact, according to the Government of Canada, appliances account for 14 per cent of the energy consumed in the average Canadian home. Whether you’re whipping up a gourmet meal or washing and drying your family’s endless loads of laundry, you want (and need) quality appliances that do their jobs. At F.W. Black Ltd., there’s no question when it comes to excellence. Locally owned and operated since 1949, F.W. Black Ltd. offers a wide variety of appliances. In fact, the company boasts the largest appliance showroom between Toronto and Montreal. “We have thousands of products to choose from, whether you are looking for a refrigerator, washer, dryer, stove, dishwasher or oven,” says Colin Humphrey, co-owner. Brand-Name Selection at Competitive Prices Carrying an extensive selection of the topnamed North American brands in stock (special orders are also available), F.W. Black

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Ltd. offers unbeatable selection paired with matchless customer service. A dedicated team of 18 ensures each client is completely satisfied from purchase to installation, says Humphrey. Customer satisfaction speaks for itself. With a delivery area that spans west to Brighton, east to Brockville and Prescott, and north to Perth and Smiths Falls, F.W. Black Ltd. is unmistakably the No. 1 choice of many homeowners when it comes to home appliances. “We’re proud to have such a wide customer base,” says Humphrey. “We get recommended by a lot of builders, designers and contractors. We try to stand apart from the rest of the bunch.” It all comes down to the team’s high level of professionalism, he adds. “Everyone on the staff is well-trained in the product,” he says, pointing out that many manufacturers, including Thermador, offer in-depth training sessions to ensure sales staff can help their customers make the best purchases for their homes. “They’re all up-to-date with the latest appliances.”

Themador: Luxurious, Efficient and Beautiful Established in 1916, Thermador began as a manufacturer of electric items, such as portable and built-in electric room heaters. By the ‘40s, Thermador introduced home appliances at the World’s Fair, billed as the “Kitchen of the Future” and have continued through the years to launch “firsts” in truly unique and innovative products, including wall oven and cooktop appliances. One hundred years later, the company is famous for making kitchens more beautiful, more efficient and more luxurious with meticulously crafted appliances engineered and designed to appeal to the most discriminating culinary enthusiast. “There’s a lot of demand for Thermador products,” says Humphery, who points out that Thermador is part of BSH Home Appliances Corporation, a fully-owned subsidiary of Bosch and Siemens Home Appliance Group, the third largest appliance manufacturer in the world.

Thermador’s lines of cooking, cleaning, refrigeration and ventilation products have become known the world over. The company is renowned for their innovative concepts, including the world’s first wall ovens and gas cooktops with the patented Star® Burner. Thermador is also known for the development of a speed-cooking oven that reduces cooking time by 50 per cent, says Humphrey, who adds that customer feedback on Thermador products is overwhelmingly positive. “We’re proud to carry Thermador products because our customers get quality for their money,” he says. A year ago, the company introduced the 30-inch Five Burner Pro Rangetop and the 30-inch Five Burner Pro Harmony® Range. These appliances are the only professionalstyle range and rangetop to offer five burners, says Humphrey, and they have been extremely popular with many customers, he adds. “They’re excellent products.”

F.W. Black Ltd.: Uncompromising Quality and Unsurpassed Customer Service Don’t make any concessions on the quality of your home’s appliances. For a great selection with top-brand names and a dedicated sales team with superior knowledge, visit F.W. Black Ltd. RK

“We’re proud to carry Thermador products because our customers get quality for their money”. Colin Humphrey, co-owner.

Sales & Services

685 ARLINGTON PARK PLACE 613-389-9607

MONDAY-FRIDAY 9 AM – 5:30 PM • SATURDAY 9 AM – 4 PM • SUNDAY CLOSED

FWBLACK.COM

KINGSTON’S FIRST NAME IN APPLIANCES

•

685 Arlington Park Place, Kingston 613.389.9607 fwblack.com

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BEST of the BEST remote plumbing

Godfrey Plumbing Services Your Remote Plumbing Experts

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

edicated to excellence, Godfrey Plumbing Services has managed to make quite a name for itself in the Limestone City.

Boasting a wide array of residential and commercial services for new builds and renovations, there’s not much this company won’t do. Whether it’s the installation of a hydronic heating or UV system, performing water treatments, servicing pumps, installing snow and ice melt systems, or retrofitting old boilers and updating them with new, energy-efficient boiler systems, Godfrey Plumbing Services is up to the task. The company — which has established partnerships with a number of reputable homebuilders in the Kingston area, including Sobella House & Home, Redwood Properties, and BPE Developments — also offers full contracting services to make that

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new kitchen or bath you’ve been dreaming of a reality. Remote Cottage Maintenance Godfrey Plumbing Services also opens and closes cottages for the season. “Customers can call me and let me know when they’re planning to head up and we make sure everything is ready to go so when they come up, they can just relax,” says owner Brian Godfrey. Home and cottage owners with properties in remote locations appreciate the company’s willingness to travel. “Depending on the job, we don’t have a set boundary,” explains Godfrey. “There is no real limitation to where we’ll go.” Growing up in Sharbot Lake, Godfrey says he loves being out in the country, and enjoys taking jobs that other companies would consider too

far off the beaten path. “I’ve always just loved being out on the water, and working near the water,” he says. “Since becoming a plumber, I like to put the two loves together. I can go out to see customers and be out on my boat on the water. And I can sneak in some fishing after work, which is sometimes hard to do.” Quality Workmanship Although Godfrey Plumbing Services is just four years old, it has successfully established itself as a reputable company that goes above and beyond clients’ expectations time and time again. “I’ll work long hours just to make sure the job gets done on time,” says Godfrey. “We are professional with our customers, and we treat them like we would treat our friends and family. Nobody receives a bill until the job is 100 per cent complete and the customer is happy.”

The company also offers an unbeatable warranty to clients. “We stand behind our work and the parts that we offer,” explains Godfrey. “We truly stand behind our workmanship.” A bulletin board in Godfrey’s office bursting with thank-you cards from clients speaks volumes. “They are appreciative of the service and work that we have done,” he explains, adding that he prides himself on building relationships with all of his customers. “They can text or call me anytime to ask me questions,” he says. “People call me at all hours of the night and day and I get right back to them.” Perhaps the amount of repeat customers and referrals is what truly defines this young company’s success. “Ultimately, this means a

lot,” says Godfrey, on his way to yet another job site late one Friday afternoon. “But we always put quality and customer service first before anything else.”

“We use Godfrey Plumbing for all our modular and site home builds. [The company is] on time, on budget with no callbacks. Just the way it should be.”

Godfrey Plumbing Services: one call does it all.

Rubi Sulyma Frontenac Modular Homes

Godfrey Plumbing Services 613.888-2435 godfrey.plumbing@outlook.com

“We are proud to use Godfrey Plumbing on our homes because we know that we can rely on Brian to get the job done right and in both a timely and professional manner. When it comes to tradespersons, we employ only those who are exceptional at their craft and will stand behind their work. Brian exemplifies this in every way.” Marten Bos Sobella Homes

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BEST of the BEST heating & cooling

Haven Home ClimateCare

Your Personal Climate Experts By Trina Annand Photos Stephen Wild

eople often think about finishes and furniture when imagining their dream home, but it is the heating, cooling and air filtration systems that truly make a space comfortable, cosy and healthy. Haven Home Climate Care has been supplying Kingston with all their heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) needs for more than 20 years. Excellent Selection of Quality Brands Visitors can find 26 functioning fireplaces, including gas, wood and pellet heating options, in the recently renovated and expanded Haven Home showroom and retail centre. Not limited to just fireplaces, the company also offers in-floor radiant heating, geothermal heat pumps, air conditioners, indoor air quality products and, of course, traditional furnaces. Offering an extensive variety of quality brands, such as Regency Fireplaces, the company

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helps all of its customers create a warm and comfortable home. “We have grown to become the largest HVAC retailer in Kingston because of the quality of our products and service. We greatly appreciate each and every one of our customers and their decision to buy local,” says McMullen. Regency Fireplace Products A world leader in the design and manufacturing of hearth products, Regency Fireplace Products continuously meets the needs of its customers. The company, which features products made locally in North America, believes in what it defines as the four cornerstones of great fireplace products: high quality, good value, clean burning efficiency and beautiful aesthetics. In order to achieve this, the business, founded by Robert Little, ensures every item is crafted with care and comes out of manufacturing at its absolute best. They also strive to provide the

highest level of customer support in the industry, and partner with customers and suppliers to develop quality products. With everything from contemporary and traditional gas fireplaces, as well as gas inserts and stoves, wood and pellet insets, wood and pellet stoves, and outdoor gas fires, the company boasts a wide variety of products suitable for every home. According to the company, the Regency Ultimate linear Gas Fireplace showcases the best in class flame and log package. Perfect for the modern spaces and open concept living areas of today’s houses, clean burning heat is distributed throughout the home. Colder climates will benefit from the combination of intense radiant heat and extensive convective heat delivered by the built in blower. The black enamel reflective panels further accentuate the fire to create the perfect ambiance.

Regency’s products because of the company’s superior quality and customer service support. “We have done many different installations of the product throughout the years and our customers have had very positive feedback. We only sell and promote products that perform well. Because of our guarantees, we need to ensure the products are not only beautiful, but reliable, as well.” A “We Care” Promise As the only Kingston member of the ClimateCare Cooperative Corporation, Haven Home is dedicated to excellence and training, providing superior customer service. With the “We Care” promise of comfort, accountability, reliability and excellence, clients get the best possible service every time they work with Haven Homes —a guarantee backed with follow-up quality inspections of any new product installations. Summer Grilling For the warmer months, customers can find not just state-of-the-art air conditioning options, but also selections for outdoor enjoyment with the latest offerings from Saber and The Big Green Egg. Utilizing Saber’s patented infrared cooking system, customers and grill masters get perfectly cooked food while using 30 per cent less gas. The Big Green Egg is an all-season favourite, with owners braving the cold to use this grilling, smoking and baking machine. The only limit is the chef’s creativity.

The company prides itself on its reliable, quality products. It’s just one of the many reasons Haven Home ClimateCare is a proud dealer. “We are pleased to offer Regency products because the company offers the same 100 per cent satisfaction that we do, so it makes it easy to promote and support the line,” says McMullen. Regency’s commitment to quality is practiced at every step of the process, including a final inspection before anything is approved for shipment. “Regency products are an amazing Canadian brand,” says McMullen. “They have a technical department that will come and personally address any issues that occur with their products. If there is a problem with their product, they will replace it at zero cost. The products are all of the highest quality, and on current market trend.”

Turn to the Experts at Haven Home With fireplaces of all shapes and sizes, HVAC and a selection of unique barbecuing options, there is something for everyone at Haven Home. When creating a comfortable home for your family, remember to call the experts at Haven Home ClimateCare. RK

Haven Home Climate Care 2495 Princess St., Kingston 613.634.7722 havenhomeclimatecare.ca

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111

BEST of the BEST tattoo artist

Ink-Tegrity Tattoo Studio

modern ink for the modern age By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Lauren Kauffman

There are those who believe our bodies were printed as a blank canvas; a canvas to be filled with beautiful art that tells a story as unique as the wearer. Jo Perodin is one of those people. Jo is half of a power couple that own and run InkTegrity Tattoo Studio, which is located on Aberfoyle Road in Kingston. Perodin has been passionate about body art her entire life; she got her first tattoo when she was just 15 years old. From the very moment the colourful ink entered her skin, she knew exactly what her future held. “I was so intrigued by it,” she says. “I was intrigued by the culture, I was intrigued by people who were tattooed. I was fascinated by it all.” She was 16 when she picked up a tattoo machine for the very first time. Too young to be considered for an apprenticeship, she took things into her own hands, and taught herself how to tattoo. She couldn’t have known back then what her future would hold: she’s now one of the city’s most in-demand tattoo artists with a waiting list that averages five months. She first opened the doors to Ink-Tegrity Tattoo Studio with her husband Max in 2013. Today, it’s the second home of five gifted artists whose styles range from traditional, to realistic, to abstract and geometric. The shop, which promotes a welcoming environment, is anything but intimidating. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and inherently understands that tattooing means different things to different people. “The goal of the shop is to supply an environment and atmosphere that is all-inclusive,” explains Jo. “We have a diverse blend of clients, whether it’s a ‘tattoo virgin’ who doesn’t want to feel intimidated walking through the doors, or someone that’s covered completely from head-to-toe in tattoos and comes in for the great art.”

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There’s a constant, steady flow of traffic through the shop’s doors, speaking to the immense popularity it has among Kingstonians. “We are extremely busy,” says Jo, attributing it not only to her talented staff, but also to the excellent customer service the shop provides. Her husband is a big part of this; with many years of experience in customer service, he fosters a welcoming environment that sets every customer at ease from the moment they walk in. “We want to make sure everyone understands their tattoo is as important to us as it is to them,” she says. “It’s about making them feel at home and welcome right from the start.” It seems they’re doing something right. This spring, the shop expanded to include Ink-

Tegral Beauty, a full-service salon and barber shop that offers everything from men’s fades and lineups to hair tattoos and stylish cuts and colours. It also offers pin-up and wedding updo services for women. Ink-Tegral Beauty also endeavours to offer clients a wide range of esthetic services, including facials and waxing. Permanent cosmetics tattooing, laser tattoo removal, eyebrow tattooing and areola repigmentation round out the salon’s long list of incredible offerings. It seems Jo and Max are right where they are meant to be — and their future in the tattoo industry is bright. “I love being able to create

“We have a diverse blend of clients, whether it’s a ‘tattoo virgin’ who doesn’t want to feel intimidated walking through the doors, or someone that’s covered completely from head-to-toe in tattoos and comes in for the great art.” Jo Perodin

a tattoo on someone who will be wearing it as a permanent memory of that moment in their life,” she says. “Art is amazing in all types of ways, but tattooing is permanent, so I take it very seriously. What I create on any given day will be with that person for the rest of their life. I’m so happy to be able to do that every day. Getting a tattoo is an exciting moment; and I am humbled to be a part of it.” InkTegrity Tattoo Studio: Welcome to your next addiction. RK

“My experience with Ink-Tegrity was everything I had hoped for and more! The shop was fun, laid back and professional. You can tell the artists love their jobs. Medea was friendly and fun; I had confidence in her right away. I would recommend her to anyone.” Brianna “I have sat for two tattoos with Jo and her attention to detail is amazing. The thought she puts into each tattoo is so personal. I am extremely satisfied with my experiences and will continue to use Ink-Tegrity for all my future tattoos.” Samantha “Got an awesome cut and colour by Erica. Definitely coming back. Love it so much. Love this shop!” Kelsi

Ink-Tegrity Tattoo Studio 83 Aberfoyle Rd # 2, Kingston 613.541.1113 inktegritytattoo@gmail.com

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BEST the B E S of T O F BEST BEST s p a & décor home furniture

Jacob Nathan Jacob Nathan You're Going To Love This Place

You’re Going to Love This Place

By Tori Stafford Photos Stephen Wild and Courtesy of Jacob Nathan By Tori Stafford

hen creating a space in your home that fits your lifestyle, personal taste should never be compromised. At Jacob Nathan, the options to truly reflect your sense of style are endless. Locally owned and operated, Jacob Nathan Home Furnishings and Accessories has served the area for well over a decade, with a reputation for offering high-end home furnishings at affordable prices.

Husband and wife team Dave and Cindy Wilkinson are proud to offer a wide selection of furniture from reputable manufacturers, including Ashley Furniture,

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the most popular furniture brand in North America. Beyond their array of brand-name furnishings known for quality, Jacob Nathan also offers custom furniture options. It’s the perfect way to bring your personal flair to the place you call home. “A lot of people are surprised to find out how much we offer in Canadianmade, custom furniture,” says David. “From leather and upholstery sofas and living room furniture to dining and bedroom sets, entertainment units, coffee and end tables. We offer so many different custom options for our customers.” As Cindy points out, people aren’t used to being able to choose what they want

in furniture. “Often, people think what is on the floor is all that is available,” she says. “For us, it’s all about what our customers will be happy with. We like to be able to give our customers options and be here to help guide them through the process.” Many customers appreciate the assistance of the Wilkinsons and manager Linda Thompson when looking to put their personal stamp on a living room. With hundreds of fabric samples in store, and their lines of custom furniture offering a variety of woods and finishes as well, it can sometimes be overwhelming for a customer. This is where the personalized service offered at Jacob Nathan comes in, allowing customers time and space to choose what they want, and the answers and suggestions they may need, Linda explains.

“This is your home. We want you to be happy and comfortable in your comfort zone,” she says, pointing out that after years in the industry, the Wilkinsons know quality-built furniture and only offer products they know their clients will be happy with for years to come. As with all furniture at Jacob Nathan, their Canadian-made custom lines are fully warrantied, meaning their clients can rest easy. With solid wood frames and the old-world craftsmanship the Wilkinsons demand of the lines they carry, it’s more likely customers come back to outfit a different room or find the perfect accents than to inquire about service and repairs.

“Come in and see what we have in store,” says David, adding that a majority of the products they carry aren’t available in other local stores. “As our slogan says, ‘You’re going to love this place.’”

Jacob Nathan Home Furnishings and Accessories 2776 Princess Street, Kingston 613.384.2444 jacobnathan@bellnet.ca jacobnathan.ca

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BEST of the BEST BEST OF BEST fflooring looring

K I N G S TO N CARPETWORLD For All Your Flooring Needs By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

Kingston Carpetworld: An Exclusive Your HomeStyle Dealer Kingston Carpetworld has been an exclusive Your HomeStyle dealer for more than 10 years, and for good reason. “There is always something discounted,” says co-owner Mark Rodrigues. “As a Your HomeStyle dealer, we have something on sale every day of the year to offer our customers in either carpet, laminate, vinyl or wood if none of our other suppliers are promoting their goods.” Made Made ininCanada Canada

Many of Your HomeStyle’s carpet collections — which offers a wide variety of patterns and colors — are made in Canada by Beaulieu, which is one of the largest manufacturers of wall-to-wall carpet in Canada. Peace of Mind Mind with Purchase Program Peace of withYour YourHomeStyle's HomeStyle’s Purchase Program

Your HomeStyle’s purchase program understands your purchase is a long-term decorating investment, so the “no questions asked” guarantee adds a sense of security to your purchase. If you are unhappy with your flooring choice (for reasons outside of performance as covered in your warranty), Kingston Carpetworld can replace the flooring with another Your HomeStyle product of equal value at no flooring charge to the consumer. This guarantee offers 30, 60 or 90-day coverage, depending on the type of flooring chosen. The customer is only responsible for labour charges. “It’s not a bad deal if you happen to choose a floor that just doesn’t work with your home’s design,” says Rodrigues. “You don’t need to feel like you have to live with it.” The HomeStyle program also carries extended warranties from the regular Beaulieu collection, found in all other flooring locations. A A Wide WideRange RangeofofFlooring FlooringOptions Options

Your HomeStyle offers simple solutions and a full range of the latest floor fashions designed to suit your unique personal style and for the way you live.

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For more than 20 years, Kingston Carpetworld has been supplying and installing quality flooring material to Kingston and the surrounding area. While there have been many changes in flooring trends and styles over the last 15 years, hardwood flooring has undergone a dramatic transformation, explains Rodrigues. “Customers now have plenty of options to choose from,” he says, “including the width of the flooring, as well as a wide variety of finishes and stains. Customers can also pick between engineered or solid wood products.” Those with busy households appreciate hardwood flooring that features a wire-brushed finish. With its roughed-up texture, wirebrushed hardwood is less susceptible to the damage kids and pets can inflict upon it. It’s a popular choice for today’s active families, says Rodrigues. Grey-toned flooring is also experiencing a surge in popularity, says Rodrigues. Mercier, a Canadian wood manufacturer, has a collection called “Heritage,” which features six unique, two-toned stain choices with a wire-brushed finish. Within this collection are two colours, including “Macchiato” and “Mondo novo”, which have a nice grey undertone, says Rodrigues. If the rustic look of the wire-brushed finish is not for you, consider the satin finish in Mercier’s Design + collection. Available in red oak and maple, there are 19 stain options to choose from, including several grey tones. There is also the Elegancia collection, which is composed of hickory, white oak, ash and birch. Each wood type offers specific stain colours that complement their species’ natural beauty and character. Mercier Wood Flooring offers hundreds of options to suit your design and lifestyle needs. The Mercier Generations Collection also uses 100 per cent pure soybean oil, making it the healthiest choice for you and your family. Visit Kingston Carpetworld to see what Mercier Wood flooring has to offer you. RK

Kingston Carpetworld 2452 Princess Street, Kingston, 613.549.7847 kingstoncarpetworld.ca ReFINEdKINGSTON ReFINEdKINGSTON

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BEST of the BEST BEST OF BEST mortgage m o r t g a g ebroker broker

Janet MacDonald & Jeff Stafford Janet MacDonald & Jeff Stafford

Kingston Mortgage Solutions Honest Advice, Competitive Rates Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

When you the doors Kingston henwalk youthrough walk through theatdoors at Mortgage Solutions, there’s aSolutions, certain buzz in the Kingston Mortgage there’s a air.certain You can both seeair. and entire buzz in the Youhear canan both seeteam and coming together common, admirable hear an entire with team acoming together with goal in mind: helping people. a common, admirable goal in mind: helping people.

Whatever your mortgage need is — whether is —and whether it’s Whatever finding theyour bestmortgage mortgageneed option rate it’s finding the home, best debt mortgage option solution for a new consolidation rate solution for a new home, or and renewing your mortgage — you candebt rest consolidation or renewing your mortgage assured knowing Kingston Mortgage Solutions youtirelessly can rest assured knowing will—work on your behalf to find Kingston the best Mortgage Solutions will work tirelessly on your mortgage option and rate solution. behalf to find the best mortgage option and rate solution.is Born A Partnership Launched in 2012 by Mortgage Broker Jeff A Partnership is Born Solutions set itself Stafford, Kingston Mortgage Launched in 2012 Mortgage Broker apart from competitorsbyalmost immediately, Jeff Stafford, Kingston Mortgage Solutions with a core belief that clients’ best interests set itself apart fromplaced competitors should be continuously ahead almost of the immediately, with a core belief that clients’ commission dollar. best interests should be continuously placed

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It ahead wasn’t of long clients were calling the thebefore commission dollar. company whichbefore is an independently owned It wasn’t—long clients were calling and Alliance theoperated company franchise — which of is Mortgage an independently — owned “a breath fresh air.”franchise Ultimately, they were and of operated of Mortgage thankful for —a “a team that of genuinely It’s no Alliance breath fresh air.”cared. Ultimately, they were thankful for a that20genuinely surprise the firm finished in team the top per cent cared. It’s no surprise the firm in the nationally during its first year, andfinished in the top five top 20 the per following cent nationally per cent year. during its first year, and in the top five per cent the following

It year. was this determination to treat clients fairly and ethically that drew respected Mortgage It wasJanet this determination treat Agent MacDonald totojoin theclients team fairly when ethically thather drew Jeffand approached to respected become aMortgage company Agent inJanet partner 2014.MacDonald to join the team when Stafford approached her to become a company partner 2014. on board with Janet’s decision to income Kingston Mortgage Solutions was a “total MacDonald’s on Kingston board game changer” decision reminiscestoJeff.come “In the with Kingston Mortgage Solutions was mortgage broker and real estate community,a it “totaljustgame changer Stafford. wasn’t a tidal wave,” itreminisces was a tsunami,” he “In the Kingston mortgage broker and real says. “Janet is the most well-respected mortgage estateperiod, community, it wasn’tShe just isa also tidal one wave,of broker, in Kingston.

the mosta well-respected mortgage it was tsunami,” he says. “Janet is brokers the mostin Canada. So it was the buzz broker, of the industry. well-respected mortgage period, For in me, it was just themost company Kingston. She tremendous is also one how of the wellcame together like I hadbrokers always in envisioned respected mortgage Canada.it would.” So it was the buzz of the industry. For me, it was just tremendous how the company came together like I had always envisioned Honesty and Integrity it would.” While low rates help to set Kingston Mortgage Solutions apart from banks and other mortgage Honesty Integrity lenders, it’s and the entire team’s commitment to While that low really ratesdrives helpthetopoint sethome. Kingston honesty Mortgage Solutions apart from banks and other mortgage it’s theand entire “We deal honestlylenders, with clients will team’s always commitment to honesty that really drives recommend what is best for them, and not the our point home. pocket book,” says Janet. “For me, its about customer service. It’s about following up and “We deal honestly and will always keeping in touch withwith ourclients clients.”

recommend what is best for them, and not our pocket says MacDonald. “For me, its She addsbook,” that while there are plenty of low about customer service. It’s about following rate products on the market, many of them up after the fact, andthat keeping in touch have hidden clauses do not havewith the our clients.” best interests of the client at heart. “We steer

away from these,” she there says fervently. “We know exactly what product we recommend She adds that while are plenty of always low A Straightforward Approach rate to products onbest the for market, many of them want do what’s our clients.” and why,” says Janet. At Kingston Mortgage Solutions, “Clients have hidden clauses that do not have the

best interests of the way. client“People at heart.will “We steer Jeff feels the same pick up if away just fromoutthese,” says done fervently. you’re to getshe a deal and “We to get always want todollar,” do what’s best “We for our the commission he says. will clients.” come with different scenarios that will benefit them, and help Stafford the same way. with “People will pick them — notfeels ourselves. It sticks our whole moral up if you’re just out to get a deal done and picture.” to get the commission dollar,” he says. “We come with different scenarios that will Awill Straightforward Approach them,Mortgage and help them — not ourselves. Atbenefit Kingston Solutions, “Clients are It sticks withwith our all whole picture.” presented the moral options and facts, and

are presented with all the options and

“It’s about courtesy,” Jeff. “Our facts, and common know exactly whatadds product we straightforward us apart. We recommend andapproach why,” says sets MacDonald. are going to tell you the good, bad and the of common your financial picture, and lay out “It’s ugly about courtesy,” adds Stafford. the accordingly.approach It’s your decision “Ouroptions straightforward sets usto make — not to ours.” apart.from We there are going tell you the good,

“Our straightforward approach sets us apart. We are going to tell you the good, bad and the ugly of your financial picture, and lay out the options accordingly. It’s your decision to make from there — not ours.”

bad and the ugly of your financial picture, and lay out the options accordingly. It’s your decision to make from there — not ours.”

Jeff Stafford, Kingston Mortgage Solutions

A Team of Top-Quality and Dedicated Professionals Every member of the team at Kingston Mortgage Solutions is ready to work hard to earn your business and get a great rate for your mortgage.

Barry Cave

Cris Vilela

Crystal Dufresne

Barry Cave, Mortgage Broker With more than 30 years of experience, Barry has helped endless clients with both residential and commercial needs. “He brings a wealth of experience,” says Stafford. “And I think it says a lot that he wanted to come and work with us.” Cris Vilela, B.A., Mortgage Agent Famous in the Limestone City for his @ YGKTraffic Twitter account, Cris spent 15 years working in the banking industry, most recently as a mortgage specialist, before making the switch to brokering. He’s dedicated to helping clients fit real estate together with their personal financial plans. Highly coveted by two other institutions and four other brokerages, Stafford and MacDonald are thrilled he chose to join their team. “It’s out of the respect he had for Janet and I that he chose to come here,” says Stafford. “It was a good fit for him.” Crystal Dufresne, Mortgage Agent With experience in the mortgage industry and in real estate, Crystal also serves as Stafford’s assistant. “She is very helpful, and always willing to dig in and go the extra mile,” says Stafford. “She is very capable.”

David Sutherland

Fred Cooke

David Sutherland, Mortgage Agent Heavily involved in the community, David and Stafford have had a business relationship for many years. He cares about the client more than the process, says Stafford, and is pleased be a part of the team at Kingston Mortgage Solutions. He has more than 20 years in the financial services industry, most of those with one chartered bank. Fred Cooke, Mortgage Agent Fred urges clients to “think outside the branch,” and know they will get the piece of mind they deserve knowing he is working for their best interests. He joined the team in 2015, respecting the work MacDonald was known for in the industry. “He felt it was the best fit, over other brokerages that were interested in him,” says Stafford. Fred is also a licensed life insurance broker, and is able to offer his clients both mortgages and a wealth of information about life insurance. Lisa Yeatman, Mortgage Agent Before joining Kingston Mortgage Solutions, Lisa worked for 13 consecutive years at a well-known mortgage brokerage. She has knowledge in all areas of mortgage financing and has an extensive background in mortgage underwriting. She prides herself on giving clients honest answers and

Lisa Yeatman

Renae Gilchrist

information to help them make an informed lending decision. Renae Gilchrist, Mortgage Agent Renae has worked with MacDonald as her assistant since 2010, and obtained her Mortgage Agent License a few years ago. With a diverse background in the financial industry and in real estate, Gilchrist has a solid foundation in real estate financing and mortgages. Whether clients are purchasing, refinancing/ renewing, buying a cottage or rental property, Gilchrist helps guide them through the process. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be doing what I do,” says MacDonald. “She’s very experienced and knowledgeable. I’m so lucky she is here with me.”

Kingston Mortgage Solutions 739B Arlington Park Place, Kingston 613.507.LOAN (5626) info@kingstonmortgagesolutions.com kingstonmortgagesolutions.com

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BEST of the BEST B E S T of the B E S T l landscaping andscaping

Lasting Impression Landscape Construction Lasting Impression Landscape Construction “Landscape Your Lifestyle” “Landscape Your Lifestyle” By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

hen designing aa landscape, landscape, we weare are hen designing designing an outdoor living space. designing an outdoor living space.

McKay McKay has has taken taken a a passion passion for for landscape landscape design design and and construction construction and and turned turned itit into into a a formidable formidable business business that that grows grows more more and and more more each each year year — — it’s it’s a a company company based based on on not not only on landscaping excellence, but creative only on landscaping excellence, but creative solutions solutions and and quality quality craftsmanship, craftsmanship, as as well. well. For For this this successful successful entrepreneur, entrepreneur, it’s it’s not not a a job. job. “It’s “It’s like like we’re we’re not not even even going going to to work,” work,” he he says, says, reviewing reviewing remarkable remarkable plans plans for for a a customer’s customer’s upcoming upcoming project project this this summer. spring. Now Now in in its its ninth ninth year, year, Lasting Lasting Impression Impression Landscape Construction has Landscape Construction has certainly certainly made made a a positive positive impression impression in in Kingston, Kingston, boasting boasting a a well-deserved well-deserved association association with with a a number number of of high-profile high-profile builders builders in in the the city. city. He He credits credits his his highly-trained team of eight for making highly-trained team of eight for making his his business business such such a a resounding resounding success. success. “They “They all all have have a a great great attention attention to to detail detail and and a a strong strong work a work ethic,” ethic,” he hesays. says.“And “Andallallofofour ourguys guyshave have passion forfor what they do.do; Weweare a small a passion what they don’t haveteam, any and we work slackers. We together.” are a small team, and we work together.”

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With With regular regular training training seminars seminars to to ensure ensure his his crew is up-to-date on the latest and crew is up-to-date on the latest and greatest greatest technologies technologies and and products, products, Lasting Lasting Impression Impression Landscape Landscape Construction Construction can can take take any any outdoor outdoor space space and and transform transform itit into into something something breathtaking breathtaking — — a a space space sure sure to to leave leave a a lasting impression on anyone who lasting impression on anyone who sees sees it.it. From From landscape landscape design; design; landscape landscape lighting; lighting; interlocking stone and retaining interlocking stone and retaining walls, walls, to to water water features; features; decks; decks; fences; fences; outdoor outdoor kitchens; kitchens; hardscaping; hardscaping; softscaping softscaping and and wooden wooden structures structures such such as as pergolas pergolas and and cabanas, cabanas, Lasting Lasting Impression Impression Landscape Landscape Construction Construction has all of your outdoor has all of your outdoor needs needs covered. covered. To To McKay, McKay, the the word word “quality” “quality” truly truly means means something something when when itit comes comes to to his his projects. projects. “I“I consider consider us us one one of of the the best best in in the the city city for for full full landscape landscape design design and and construction, construction, and and everything everything comes comes with with a a smile,” smile,” says says McKay. McKay. “We interact with the clients and “We interact with the clients and answer answer any any questions questions that that might might arise, arise, or or ifif any any problems problems arise, arise, which which does does not not happen happen very very often.” often.” In In fact, fact, says says McKay, McKay, “I“I treat treat every every backyard backyard like like it’s it’s my my own ownbackyard.” backyard — and I think its been working for us.”

ItIt comes comes as asno nosurprise surprisecustomer customerfeedback feedback hashas been overwhelmingly positive since the very been overwhelmingly positive since the very beginning. “There is not a single project beginning. “There is not a single project I’veI’ve worked on that that I Ican’t can’tpop popinto intoforfora avisit,” visit,” says worked on says McKay. that McKay. “I“I make makesure surewhen whenwe weleave leavea aproject project everything is done to their satisfaction —— that that everything is done to their satisfaction they’re happy. I’m all about the referral.” that they’re happy. I’m all about the referral.” With years ofof experience experienceand anda apassion passionforfor With years the industry, Lasting Lasting Impression ImpressionLandscape Landscape the industry, Construction can recommend recommend the the proper proper Construction can landscape and suitable suitablesolutions solutionsforforwhatever whatever landscape and your outdoor needs needs are are.—“We’re just how a medium your outdoor no matter big sized company that loves doing what we’re or small. “We’re just a medium sized company doing. Every day, we just go to work and have that loves doing what we’re doing…and fun. It’s the passion that drives us.” every year, we’re re-inventing the wheel. Every day, we just go to work and have fun. It’s the Create passion an thatoutdoor drives us.”environment that’s beyond your imagination — call Lasting Impression Landscape Construction todaythat’s to make your Create an outdoor environment beyond dreams a reality. your imagination — call Lasting Impression Landscape Construction today to make your dreams a reality.

“Their attention to detail was sincere. They were willing to discuss the project thoroughly with us — both in advance and as questions arose as the work was ongoing. We are very pleased to recommend Lasting Impression Landscaping to our friends and my real estate clients who are looking for top-quality landscaping.” - Client ▲ Mike McKay, owner Lasting Impression Landscape Construction provides residential and commercial property owners with the finest in landscaping services: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Landscaping design Interlocking stone Natural stone Retaining walls Water features Decks and fences Tree planting Gazebos Hardscaping Softscaping Outdoor living spaces Snow and ice management

Lasting Impression Landscape Construction Lasting Impression Landscaping 829Construction Norwest Road, Suite 909, Kingston 613.561.0720 829 Norwest Road, Suite 909, Kingston lastingimpressionlandscaping.ca 613.561.0720 lastingimpressionlandscaping.ca

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BEST of the BEST life coach

Be A Better You Live With More Authenticity, Happiness and Love Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Lauren Kauffman

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It’s

a warm and sunny Wednesday morning, and Laurie Hannah is seated at her kitchen table with her eight-month-old golden retriever, Angus, nipping playfully at her fingers. She speaks in a soft, comforting voice, which makes me feel at ease from the first moment I meet her. It’s no surprise Laurie has found her calling as a life coach, showing others the path to a life filled with more authenticity, happiness and love.

It’s a passion she has devotedly pursued since 2003, following an education in sociology and psychology from Queen’s University, and training in addiction treatment, social work, counseling and coaching. With such varied, in-depth schooling, Laurie has developed an understanding of what people need to develop a strong sense of confidence and self-worth. She has created a revolutionary eight-week online program for women focused on selfawareness, self-assurance and relationships. It also helps women set meaningful goals and to trust their decision-making. Designed to help participants overcome internal roadblocks and obstacles, Laurie’s platform is a groundbreaking take on personal development that every woman owes to herself in today’s busy world. For those who desire, there is also a four-week online class (a shorter version of the eightweek class); one-on-one coaching; coaching “cafes” for groups of women at the location of their choosing, and individual assessments based on Cloé Madanes’ theories of human needs psychology. These in-depth evaluations, which are available for men as well as women, are completed through a onehour session with Laurie. They are designed to help participants identify what they can do to make a difference in their life. “Everyone’s priorities are different,” Laurie says. “We figure out what your priorities are, and how you can use that knowledge to make better choices.” Laurie’s programs are a truly holistic approach that can have a dramatic impact on all facets of life, including physical and mental

health, relationships and careers. Through Laurie’s teachings, clients can learn how to heal themselves, move forward and develop the skills they need to be emotionally happy and well, and to practice more control over their feelings. It’s about asking yourself how you can make yourself happier on any given day; what you can do to bring yourself more peace, explains Laurie. In practicing this, it becomes a habit to work hard each day to feel the way you want to feel. While she works with men, women and couples, her true passion lies in helping women (particularly mothers), create permanent, positive changes in their personal and professional lives. With her caring, attentive approach, Laurie helps women develop a better sense of who they are and gives them the tools to shift their thoughts and perspectives of themselves and their world. In doing this, she allows these women to not only discover, but also embrace who they truly are. She’s unabashedly passionate about what she does, tears filling her eyes as she explains why. “I’m changing the next generation,” she explains. “The women I’m working with are having a positive effect on their kids; they are learning these skills they might not otherwise have, and then that moves forward. I’m serving the next generation of people by serving their guide…serving their leader. The women [I work with] are raising their children to be more aware of who they are.”

coaching by Patryk Wezowski, the producer of the “Coaching” movie and founder of the Center for Body Language. Past and current clients have called her a “beacon”; a light that shines brightly on the darkest of days. For those lives whose have been touched by Laurie’s remarkable skills, it’s well-deserved recognition. “Working with Laurie through her eight-week Soul Coaching program has undoubtedly changed my life for the better,” says client Taylor Hennig. “Laurie helped me discover my core values, which has allowed me to positively change my behaviours in order to be more in sync with what I believe. I have found myself, and learned to love myself through this program. I now have a sense of uplifting freedom I never knew existed and I can’t thank Laurie enough!” Your emotional wellness and strength is only a phone call away; make the commitment to yourself today to create the life you deserve to live. RK

Laurie Hannah - Life Coach 613.530.5124 laurie@lauriehannah.com lauriehannah.com

A mother of two young daughters herself, Laurie has been called a “pioneer” in ReFINEdKINGSTON

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BEST of the BEST disaster restoration

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recover, reconstruct, restore By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

his year, the first official day of summer in the Limestone City arrived with a bang — quite literally. Severe storms blanketed the area, leaving hundreds of homes and businesses in the area without power and dozens more with flooding. But Paul Davis — a proven service specializing in emergency restoration, reconstruction and remodeling — was at the ready. Founded in 1966, Paul Davis is a true pioneer in the insurance restoration industry. Its network of more than 370 franchises spans North America; luckily, one of those franchises is right here in Kingston. Co-owned by general manager and estimator Doug Smith and project manager John Reitsma, the company specializes in emergency restoration, reconstruction and remodeling. And while the projects may vary — it could be a multi-million dollar commercial reconstruction or the repair of a single family home — one thing continually remains the same: the company always puts people first. “We truly care about our customers,” says Smith. “To see someone in complete tears one minute and then seeing the light at the end of the tunnel…it’s a great feeling pulling them out of a disastrous, emotional place.” Commercial & Residential Restoration Services When it comes to restoration, commercial and residential properties have different needs. However, fire, mould or water damage can devastate both. As such, Paul Davis’ professionals provide a variety of restoration services, including water and flood damage

cleanup; fire and smoke damage restoration; mould remediation services; wind and storm damage restoration; reconstruction services and household goods and textiles cleaning. Here in Kingston, water damage repair is a core service of Paul Davis, so the company understands just how important it is to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s leaking pipes, sump pump failures, sewage backup or roof leaks, Paul Davis recognizes water damage can be disastrous. However, the company’s specialized equipment and scientific knowledge ensures the waterdamaged areas of your home will quickly be remedied. “You can rest assured knowing you’re in good hands,” promises Smith. The company is available 24/7, and collaborates immediately with property insurance companies to help the claims process move quickly, explains Reitsma. “We know people just want their lives to return to normal,” he says, explaining that the process begins with a complete damage report and a plan to get the property back to where it was before disaster struck. It only ends when the job is 100 per cent complete. “To get clients back to a place where their home is home again is pretty gratifying,” says Smith, referencing a client his company had assisted earlier in the week. “This couple thought they had lost all of their belongings, but we were actually able to restore most of their belongings,” he says. “Seeing the look of relief on our clients’ faces is why we love coming to work. We really care; it’s that simple.” RK

Since 1966, Paul Davis has been at the forefront of innovation in the property damage emergency services and restoration industry. From pioneering computerized estimates, to threeday drying, to new water damage assessment and monitoring technology, Paul Davis has provided significant value to the insurance industry in cycle time reduction and cost management.

Paul Davis currently has workers converging in Fort McMurray to offer aid to home and business owners following the devastation caused by the wildfires that struck the area in May.

Paul Davis 21 Harvey St., Kingston 613.531.7962 pauldavis.ca

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BEST of the BEST plumbing & bathrooms

Plumbing Plus Experts In All Aspects

By Trina Annand Photos Stephen Wild

“Quality isn’t just a word to us, it’s our guiding principle.”

Today’s homeowners are bombarded with a myriad of plumbing choices, from luxurious and modern to functional and essential. Whether facing a full-scale renovation, a new build or a small repair, homeowners can find everything they need at Plumbing Plus. Rick Guernsey and his team have been a fixture in the plumbing industry for more than 37 years, providing unique solutions and quality service.

Rick Guernsey, owner “Quality isn’t just a word to us, it’s our guiding principle,” says Guernsey. “When you walk through our showroom, you will see high-quality fixtures and accessories that are backed up by our excellent service. We pride ourselves on personalized, professional service.”

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For those looking to fashion a luxurious oasis, Plumbing Plus specializes in creating custom bathrooms. With exclusive brands such as Fairmont Design, Ronbow, Bain Ultra, Victoria & Albert, Fleurco and many more, they can give clients a space that is part bathroom, part work of art. Canadian-based Fleurco has developed a unique Kinetik Door system similar to modern barn door hardware. It creates a sliding glass door that can be opened or closed with ease, regardless of the size of the panel. With Bain Ultra, the bathroom becomes a spa retreat offering aromatherapy, chromatherapy, geyser jets and massage options to sooth the weary soul.

Many homeowners are turning to technology to create that one-of-a-kind space; options include digital shower controls, Bluetooth and iPad compatible toilets and showers, towel warmers and in-floor heating. Comfort and relaxation have become the key components of the modern bathroom. As a result, Plumbing Plus now offers Amanti fireplaces for the ultimate retreat. “More than anything, we are selling service and peace of mind,” says Guernsey. “When you’re approaching any project, our customer service staff is there with the knowledge, creativity and expertise to get it done. It’s not simply about what is in the room, you have to take into account what’s behind the walls, as well.”

With a vast showroom of 10,000 square feet, customers can find everything they need under one roof, from custom glass shower enclosures and natural stone sinks to high-tech gadgets and all the plumbing fittings necessary to make the whole room come together. “When planning a large project, it’s especially important to work with one of our designers who can show you how to get the most out of your space,” says Guernsey. Providing high quality brands, expert designers and installers, Plumbing Plus is the ultimate onestop-shop plumbing shop. Making the room a unique space is their specialty.

“Whatever you want or need, our staff will deliver. People are unique, and so are their homes, so why shouldn’t your bathroom reflect your style? We can create a dream space that fits your budget and your lifestyle,” says Guernsey. RK

Plumbing Plus Kingston 655 Arlington Park Place, Kingston 613.389.5724

Belleville Northland Center Hwy 62, North Belleville 613.968.3461 plumbingplus.com ReFINEdKINGSTON

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BEST of the BEST BEST OF BEST concierge c o n c i e r g eservices service

YOUR LIFE, SIMPLIFIED Prestigious Lifestyle Management and Concierge Service By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photo Stephen Wild

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As the owner of Prestigious Lifestyle Management and Concierge

As the owner of Prestigious Lifestyle Service, Godfrey knows free time isManagement precious — and andConcierge that for many Service, Godfrey knows free time is precious — and that “We for many professionals, it’s a luxury. She’s aiming to change that. take on professionals, it’s a luxury. She’s aiming to change that. “We on the day-to-day tasks people are too busy to get done take themselves, the day-to-day tasks people are too busy to get done themselves, such as grocery shopping or planning a birthday party,” she says. such as grocery shopping or planning a birthday party,” she says. “In today’s world, this service is not just for the rich and famous; “In today’s world, this service is not just for the rich and famous; everyone is busy and needs more time. Consider me your personal everyone is busy and needs more time. Consider me your personal assistantwithout withoutthe thefulltime fulltimecommitment.” commitment.” assistant

As aa business businessowner, owner,single singlemother motherand and a homeowner, Godfrey As a homeowner, Godfrey understands just how overwhelming life can get. “It’s such a rewarding understands just how overwhelming life can get. “It’s such a career,” she says. “If parent able tois spend quality rewarding career,” shea says. “If ais parent able tomore spend more time with their children, a business owner or executive is able to sit and quality time with their children, a business owner or executive is able enjoy a nice meal withmeal theirwith family, I canorremove extra stress to sit and enjoy a nice theirorfamily, I can remove extrafrom someone’s day-to-day routine, then I’m happy.” stress from someone’s day-to-day routine, then I’m happy.” As Godfrey will will do do it. She’s As long long as as it’s it’slegal, legal,moral moraland andethical, ethical, Godfrey it. She’s organized washed andand organized closets, closets, created createdunique uniquegiftgiftbaskets, baskets, washed folded organized travel folded laundry, laundry, picked pickedupupprescriptions, prescriptions,andand organized travel arrangements. sheshe says. “If you want me to arrangements.“We “Wedo doeverything,” everything,” says. “If you want mewait to wait at to to fix your cable, check-in at your your house houseforforcontractors contractorscoming coming fix your cable, check-in with elderly parents and change that light bulb they have been with elderly parents and change that light bulb they have been bugging andand preparing special bugging you youabout, about,ororassist assistin inplanning planning preparing special details for your wedding. I can do it all.”

details for your wedding. I can do it all.”

She founded the business only last year, and is already having a She founded the business only last year, and is already having a positive impact on the lives of countless Kingstonians who are too positive impactallonthe theday-to-day lives of countless who “The are too busy to handle tasks lifeKingstonians requires of them. busy to handle all the day-to-day tasks life requires of them. look on clients’ faces when I tell them what I can do is priceless. I“The look it,” onshe clients’ love says. faces when I tell them what I can do is priceless. I

love it,” she says.

It’s easy to see Godfrey has stumbled upon a career she’s It’s easy toabout see —Godfrey hasnature stumbled upon career passionate her caring is proof she a loves beingshe’s passionate natureperson, is proofI love she loves being able able to helpabout others.— “Iher amcaring a people entertaining, to help others. “I am a people person, I love entertaining, shopping, decorating, planning, organizing and learningshopping, new things,” she says. “It’s theorganizing perfect fit.” and learning new things,” she says. decorating, planning,

“It’s the perfect fit.” Even though her days are remarkably busy, she thrives on the variety her career provides her,are andremarkably loves waking up she not thrives knowingonwhat Even though her days busy, the her variety day will hold.provides Ultimately,her, sheand knows her waking servicesup arenot giving clientswhat the her her career loves knowing to spend help neverUltimately, thought was day they will hold. she possible. knows herWhether servicesthey arewant giving clients the that time with family, or just read a book in peace, Prestigious makes that help they never thought possible. Whether they want to spend ittime possible. with family, or just read a book in peace, Prestigious makes it

possible.

Your time is precious, and Prestigious can give you more of it. Follow Prestigious Lifestyle Management and Concierge Service on Your time is precious, and Prestigious can give you more of it. Facebook and call today to set up a free 30-minute consultation. Follow Prestigious Lifestyle Management and Concierge Service on Facebook and call today to set up a free 30-minute consultation. RK

Services are limited only by your imagination • Going to the post office • Banking or paying bills • Taking vehicle to be serviced or detailed • Home organization • Arrange appointements and extracurricular activities for children • Check-in with senior family members • Drive crated pets to/from appointments • Check-in with pets when owners are away or at work (feed, play, walk, scoop litter) • Holiday preparation • Grocery shopping & personal shopping • Travel planning and booking • Book tickets for upcoming events • Selling used items in newspaper, kijiji, etc. • Getting prints of digital photos • Small office business support • Moving and relocation services

“

t’s only 10 a.m. on a Tuesday morning in Kingston, and already,

Lorionly Godfrey flower inarrangement foralready, one client, t’s 10 a.m.has on delivered a Tuesdayamorning Kingston, and picked up the cleaningafor another, and is onforher way to walk Lori Godfrey hasdrydelivered flower arrangement one client, picked up the dry cleaning is on herrolls wayaround, to walk she yet another client’s dog. By for theanother, time theand lunch hour yet client’s dog.the By the time thefor lunch hour rolls around, she the will another also have gotten groceries a client and weeded will also have gottenFor theGodfrey, groceries andwork. weeded the garden of another. it’sfor all ain client a day’s garden of another. For Godfrey, it’s all in a day’s work.

“As a busy business owner and mother, time is of the essence! Prestigious gives me time back in my week while also accomplishing the tasks that have been stuck on my ‘to-do list’ forever. I feel more focused, organized and able to put my energy and passion into things that need my direct influence – my family and my business. Lori has become an essential part of my week assisting with both domestic and business tasks.” Alyson Hoadley, Owner of Fossa Hair Studio

Prestigious Lifestyle Management and Concierge Service

613.767.8645 info@prestigiousconcierge.ca prestigiousconcierge.ca

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BEST of the BEST makeup artist

Pro Makeup Coach "Ignite Your Inner Sparkle" By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild Life may not always be perfect, but with the help of Erin Berry, your makeup will be forever flawless. A gifted, sought-after makeup artist for more than 10 years, Berry knew from the time she was just a little girl exactly what her future held. “I’ve always known I wanted to do this,” says Berry, prettily perched on a contemporary stool in her delightful studio, aptly named Oooh La Loft. “I grew up in a really tiny town where I wasn’t exposed to much of the beauty industry, so I truly know I was born to do this. And so, as Kingston’s luck would have it, it was only a matter of time before she went from playing with make-believe makeup kits as a youngster to wielding the tools of the trade like a pro. Throughout her career in the beauty industry and most recently while working at a well-known, respected cosmetics store, Berry began to notice there was a gap in the marketplace. “It’s always nice to have your makeup done professionally,

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but many women want to know how to properly apply makeup to themselves,” she explains. Ultimately, it’s how her company, Pro Makeup Coach, began, and how the confidence of endless Kingston women began to soar. Beauty Workshops As a makeup coach, Berry says she is dedicated to empowering women to feel their best by enhancing their true beauty. “In this day and age, it’s important to empower women, and for us to support each other,” she says. Breaking down the sometimes daunting steps of makeup application for women is Berry’s own way of achieving this. “We all have something to learn and to give to each other. And I just love that I am able to do that every day, in any way I can.” Pro Makeup Coach has also taken the Kingston bridal market by storm, booking more weddings than Berry could keep up with. Berry has now

added two more talented artists to her team, Chelsea Cusack and Yasmin Abdo. Both women share the same endearing persona and passion for makeup as Berry. “I feel honoured to be able to share my dream not only with my clients, but also with my team,” says Berry. During Berry’s Forever Flawless personal master class, she evaluates each client’s beauty routine and their current products to direct them through a customized makeup application. Whether the look they want is something suitable for a day at the office, or an amped-up evening look sure to turn heads, Berry’s in-depth tutorials leave clients feeling confident they can easily re-create these looks at home. Her Beauty Bootcamps — perfect for a fun evening in for best friends — allow clients to customize their sessions however they wish, whether it’s learning how to master a smoky eye, or how to contour like a pro.

Life may not always be perfect, but with the help of Erin Berry, your makeup will be forever flawless.

Erin Berry, Pro Makeup Coach, is the official makeup artist for ReFINEd Kingston Magazine.

Forcustomize many women, an invaluable lesson that’s theirit’ssessions however they wish, lifewhether changing, Berry. how to master a smoky it’s says learning

eye, or how to contour like a pro.

“A lot of times, clients will come in with a full makeup bag havewomen, spent hundreds dollars on, lesson but Forthey many it’s an of invaluable they still life aren’t gettingsays the Berry. outcome they had that’s changing, hoped for. Most of the time it’s because they are not sure how to use the products, or what tools “A lot of times, clients will come in with a full to use,” she explains.

makeup bag they have spent hundreds of dollars on, but they still aren’t getting the The minute a woman learns how to master her outcome they had hoped for. happens, Most of the time makeup, something quite magical says it’s because theyis are not confident, sure how to use the Berry. “If a woman feeling it really products, whatThey toolsdon’t to use,” explains. shows on herorface. evenshe know it, but they walk out glowing a little bit brighter.”

The minute a woman learns how to master her

makeup, something quite magical happens, Oh So Pretty Cosmetics sayssummer, Berry. “If a woman is feeling confident, This Berry is beyond thrilled to be it really shows face. They don’t know launching her on veryherown cosmetics line,even Oh So Pretty Cosmetics. ingredient-conscious it, but they walk outAn glowing a little bit brighter.” luxury brand, the products in the Oh So Pretty lineup arePretty all formulated without parabens or Oh So Cosmetics fragrance. This summer, Berry is beyond thrilled to be launching her very own cosmetics line, Oh

The line will offer An moreingredient-conscious than 35 products, Somakeup Pretty Cosmetics. and include everything one needs luxury brand, the products in the to Ohproperly So Pretty filllineup their makeup bag, whether it’s foundation, are all formulated without parabens or concealer, fragrance. lip or eye makeup. A variety of accessories, including brushes and eyelash curlers, will also beline available. The makeup will offer more than 35

products, and include everything one needs

“It’s honestly been my dream to have my own to properly fill their makeup bag, whether it’s makeup line,” says Berry. “So it’s something that foundation, concealer, lip or eye makeup. A is dear to my heart to be able to offer these variety of including products to accessories, my clients, and actually brushes believe and in eyelash curlers, will also be available. them.”

honestly been my dreamchoosing to have my own It’s“It’sbeen a fun experience which makeup line,” says Berry. “So it’s something that products to bring to clients, explains Berry, and is dear mytoheart to be able to on offer these she’s beentosure test them extensively herself toquality my clients, actually believe in toproducts ensure the is upand to her high standards. “I them.” have been so happy with them, I can’t wait to share them with everyone,” she says, adding that the So Pretty will bechoosing availablewhich for It’sOh been a funCosmetics experience purchase website, ohsoprettycosmetics. productsontoherbring to clients, explains Berry, com, in exclusive locations. andand she’s been sure to test them extensively on herself to ensure the quality is up to her high standards. “I have been so happy with them,

I can’tyou wait to to share with trust everyone,” she When want feel them beautiful, the team says, adding that the Oh So Pretty Cosmetics at Pro Makeup Coach to ignite your inner will beand available for shine purchase sparkle make you bright.on her website, ohsoprettycosmetics.com, and in exclusive locations. For a complete list of Berry’s products and services — want including wedding packages for When you to feel beautiful, trust the team brides-to-be — be Coach sure to to visit ignite her completely at Pro Makeup your inner redeveloped sparkle and website. make you shine bright. For a complete list of Berry’s products and services — including wedding packages for brides-to-be — be sure to visit her completely redeveloped website.

Pro Makeup Coach

Pro Makeup Coach info@promakeupcoach.com info@promakeupcoach.com promakeupcoach.com promakeupcoach.com

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BEST of the BEST BEST OF BEST ccustom u s t o m jewelry jewelry

rebecca rebeccageoffrey geoffreydesign design Contemporary ContemporaryJewelry JewelryHandmade Handmadeininthe theLimestone LimestoneCity City By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

Photo: Patrick Brant

I “I love making things so much, it’s instant gratification. It’s very therapeutic. I’ve always gotten lost in art.” Rebecca Geoffrey

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t wasn’t unusual for neighbours to spot Rebecca Geoffrey outdoors on a warm summer ’s day, a pile of painted rocks artfully displayed in front of her. Just a young girl, the artist within her was already beginning to emerge. A few decades later, Geoffrey has established herself as a talented, in-demand jewelry artist in the Limestone City. Her work is truly unique. So inimitable, in fact, that those familiar with her designs can recognize it at once. Influenced and inspired by everything from urban landscapes to natural vistas, Geoffrey uses a practiced hand to create rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings made with 100 per cent recycled materials including pure silver, 24 karat gold and argentium. Her work is ever changing; it’s constantly evolving and expanding as she masters new techniques and pushes design boundaries to create wearable masterpieces.

Her current favourite technique is Keum boo, which means “attached gold.” An ancient Korean process that sees 24 karat gold permanently bonded to fine silver, pieces made with the Keum-boo method are indisputably eye-catching and guaranteed to turn heads. It’s no surprise Geoffrey’s Keum boo designs have earned a place in upscale galleries spanning the country, “It’s so popular,” says Geoffrey, holding up a pendant created with the Keum boo technique that hangs on a long chain around her neck. “It’s just so different, and there’s not a lot of it on the market right now.” She also specializes in fingerprint jewelry. A practice that captures the fingerprint of Geoffrey’s clients’ loved ones in fine silver, Geoffrey’s fingerprint jewelry is in highdemand. Many clients are eager to have

Photo: Patrick Brant

Photo Unveiled Photography

a truly bespoke piece that beautifully tells their unique story. “It’s really personal jewelry,” explains Geoffrey, adding that the process has become a popular way for new mothers to forever capture the innocence of their baby, or for grieving clients to memorialize loved ones who have passed away.

She loves the process of crafting one-of-akind creations — and from her jeweler’s bench, which is placed directly in front of a bright window in her Kingston studio — it’s how she happily spends her days. “I love making things so much,” she says. “It’s instant gratification. It’s very therapeutic. I’ve always gotten lost in art.”

While some jewellers are more technically driven Geoffrey relies on traditional metalsmithing techniques as well as more contemporary finishes and ideas for her unique pieces. She designs and creates pieces she wants to wear; pieces she gets excited about. “I even dream about jewelry,” she says, her friendly, bubbly laugh punctuating the air.

Her designs, dictated by her artist’s soul, are truly exceptional; they are not pieces influenced by hot, in-demand trends. Instead, she remains true to herself — to what she’s passionate about. And that passion translates beautifully into her final pieces. “I try to stay true to the artistic side of me. My vision with everything is that my jewelry comes from here,”

she says, pointing emphatically to her heart. “I think because of that, people are really getting a piece of me.” RK

Rebecca Geoffrey Design rebeccageoffrey.com rebeccageoffrey@gmail.com 613.572.3514

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BEST B E S TofOthe F BBEST EST i ninterior t e r i o r design design

Reid & Siemonsen - Inspired Interiors By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

here’s a certain magic that occurs when a house is transformed into a home. It becomes whole, and converts into a haven for its occupants to return to at the end of each day. Being part of this very magic is what drives the team of talented designers at Reid & Siemonsen. “We make our client’s homes special for them,” says Peggy Reid, owner. “Advice from an interior designer can really help create a space that is cohesive, yet still captures the client’s personality and style.”

A Team Dedicated to Unique Interior Design Services Designing a home with a harmonious interior can admittedly be a somewhat daunting task, but the brilliant group of designers at Reid & Siemonsen makes it easy to create a statement in style. “We work collaboratively,” says Reid, putting together a package of fabric samples from the design group’s extensive fabric library for a client. “It allows great brainstorming activities, as we strive for the best design we can offer to our clients.” “You get a team approach, versus the ideas of just one person,” says showroom manager Tanya Syllas, handing a swatch designed by Kate Spade to Reid, who adds it to the collection for their client. Having such a well-rounded team of designers with diverse backgrounds and ideas is part of what has contributed to the enormous

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amount of success the company has seen since opening its doors in 1994. “We all have different areas of expertise,” says Reid. “When you have a larger team like we do, you can collaborate together and draw on those different areas of knowledge. Ultimately, it’s beneficial to our clients.” A Complete Design Destination While the company’s top-tier talented designers have made Reid & Siemonsen an admired company throughout the Limestone City and beyond, the design group’s vast showroom has also played a part in the company’s extensive success. “When we opened, the concept was to create a business that offered a full spectrum of unique interior design products and services in one convenient location,” says Reid. They’ve never waivered from that initial idea, and have expanded their showroom throughout the years to cater to a discerning clientele.

“We have a large showroom, with many products for people to see, touch and feel,” explains Reid, gesturing around the room at the plethora of breathtaking furniture, paintings, lamps, cushions, fabric and more. “Our showroom has all the products clients need for the various elements of the project in one location,” says Reid, adding that Reid & Siemonsen has the largest fabric library in all of eastern Ontario. Among those products are a wide variety of Canadian pieces, as well as Farrow & Ball paint, of which Reid & Siemonsen is the exclusive dealer in Kingston. Made in Dorset, England, Farrow & Ball paints are made using only the finest ingredients and age-old methods. The paint’s high levels of pigment, rich resin binders and the high refractory nature of the paint’s key ingredients produces the company’s signature depth of colour.

that serve as the highest testament to Reid & Siemonsen’s dedication to their clients. “It’s fascinating to look back at the beginning when we first started and see that we are still working with many of the same clients today.” says Reid. “It’s so rewarding, because we really do develop relationships. It’s a really nice feeling to be with people for that length of time.”

Clearly, it not only has to do with the skill of the designers, but the drive they each have to make coming home the highlight of every day for every client. “We pride ourselves on working hard for our clients by researching new products, staying on trend, and implementing the design to the end,” says Syllas. “We want to ensure our clients, at the end of the day, are as happy and as excited about the outcome as we are.”

Helping Homeowners Embrace the Potential of Their Home Perhaps it’s the homeowner files that go all the way back to the company’s earliest days

Whatever your style, Reid & Siemonsen will help you achieve it. RK

Peggy Reid, owner

350 Bagot Street, Kingston 613.548.7891 rsdesigners.net

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BEST B E S TofOthe F BBEST EST a c c o u nservices tant accounting

R.E. & Company: R.E.Neulander Neulander & Company: Firm of the Future firm of the future

KatrinaGeenevasen-Garlough Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild Wild ByBy Katrina Photos Stephen

you’re pursuing the services of an accounting company with a demonstrated interest in working with you — not simply for you — you can stop looking. R.E. Neulander & Company, owned by Chartered Professional Accountant, Rhonda Neulander, CPA, CGA, is dedicated to providing customized accounting solutions tailored to your business’ specific needs. While the company — ran seamlessly by a dedicated team of seven — offers traditional accounting and bookkeeping services, they also offer a plethora of specialized services, including business setup, coaching, tax planning, audit assistance, payroll and compensation management services. But what the firm is perhaps most excited to offer their clients are the progressive, revolutionary cloud-based accounting services and training on the system.

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“We’re looking into the future,” explains Brad Mustard, a certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor. “Cloud-based accounting saves time to let your business run more efficiently.” So What is Cloud-Based Accounting? Simply put, cloud accounting gives business owners unlimited access to financial company information from any technological device, from anywhere in the world — “even from a beach in Jamaica,” says Neulander. “It’s an easy way to access real-time information on the go, allowing business owners to spend less time working on their books, and more time working on their business,” says Neulander. At an affordable price, QuickBooks Online (QBO) features quick and easy set-up, customized to each client and their business. Whether it’s creating customized invoices with just a few clicks, capturing receipts on a mobile device, or completing payroll, QBO takes care of all the details.

Cloud accounting also aids business owners in avoiding expensive updates and realize administrative cost savings, as well realize the benefits of complete team collaboration and world-class security and automatic back-ups. Essentially, it helps entrepreneurs efficaciously grow their business in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven climate. “We believe cloud accounting brings the power of technology to you with anyway, anytime access to your company’s financial information,” says Neulander, adding that the accounting specialists at R.E. Neulander and Company work with clients to fully integrate into a cloud environment and realize all its diverse benefits. “Training is a key component,” explains Mustard. “We help migrate clients to new accounting systems, but we are also here to ensure they understand it and embrace the technology in order to realize the benefits.”

“We “Webelieve believecloud cloudaccounting accounting brings bringsthe thepower powerofoftechnology technology totoyou youwith withanyway, anyway,anytime anytime access accesstotoyour yourcompany’s company’s financial financialinformation.” information” Rhonda Neulander, CPA, CGA Chartered Professional Accountant, & owner of R.E. Neulander & Company

“Cloud accounting training is personalized to each business owner, their staff, and their company, with ongoing services tailored to meet future goals,” Mustard goes on to clarify. “We take the time to go through it with people to help them understand,” says Neulander.

BenefITS of Cloud ACCounTIng

Ease of access: Anywhere, anytime, from any device

Affordable prices: Avoid costly updates and Big Firm Firm Capability, Capability,Small SmallFirm FirmPersonality Personality

It’s no surprise R.E. Neulander and Company has set itself apart in the competitive accounting industry. “We are like the young, rebellious, crazy kids who are stirring the pot and mixing up the accounting world,” says Mustard with a laugh. “Everyone that comes in and meets us says they’ve never been to an accounting firm like this before. We have good relationships with our clients; we laugh, we kid, we joke. It’s a breath of fresh air for a lot of people coming from other accounting firms.”

realize administrative cost savings

Real time information: Know you are current and accurate

Get paid faster: Manage your accounts

R.E. Neulander and Company understands every business is unique, just like theirs is. Their team is there to help you grow your passion, whether you’re a small, medium or large-sized business. They are happy to meet with you to develop a plan that fits your needs.

receivable like never before

Process automation: Spend less time working on your books, and more time running your business

Team collaboration potential World-class security & automatic backups

R.E. Neulander and Company 4 Cataraqui Street, Suite 314 The Woolen Mill, Kingston 613.389.1994 reneulander.ca

With R.E. Neulander and Company, it all ‘adds up’. What are you waiting for? Call today to learn about customized accounting solutions tailored to your business’ needs. RK ReFINEdKINGSTON

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BEST of the BEST educational consultant

Spotlight Learning Helping Students Shine Brightly – In School, and Out By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

An ancient Chinese proverb states, “Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.” Unfortunately, learning does not come easily for everyone. A student may be one of five in a classroom with learning and attention issues. Others haven’t been given the time and attention they need to focus on their strengths and weaknesses. This doesn’t mean they’re less intelligent than their peers, assures Lynn Sadlowski, founder and lead educational consultant of Spotlight Learning. It simply means they need to determine how they learn best. Spotlight Learning — which takes a personalized approach to education — helps students do just this. Confidence Comes With “Learning How to Learn” As the mother of a son with a learning disability, the current president of the Learning Disabilities Association, and a former teacher and guidance counsellor, Sadlowski boasts a wide and varied knowledge of what can

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help students become resourceful, curious and successful learners. She’s applied this knowledge to a unique business model that doesn’t follow the typical definition of “tutoring.” “In so many of my roles working in education, I was most often a problem solver,” she says. “I looked for ways to help all kinds of students be successful in a cookie cutter system. I believe all students want to succeed and will do well if they can. We just need to find out what is standing in their way.” Beyond content-specific tutoring, learning coaches from Spotlight Learning help students identify where they struggle and then provide explicit, personalized instruction in areas such as study skills, organization, time-management and goal setting. “It involves really knowing what behaviours, strategies and resources will help them succeed. For so many students, success comes from learning how to learn,” says Sadlowski.

Sadlowski references the saying, ‘When you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day, whereas if you show him how to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.’ “This resonates with the mission where we’re teaching students to learn how to learn, to learn tried and true academic skills that help them as an individual. This self-awareness is so important. I have heard students say, ‘My sister does it this way,’ but what might work for even their brother or sister might not be the best strategy for them.”

One-On-One Sessions with a Learning Coach The average class size in Ontario continues to rise, with some teachers having as many as 30 or more in their classrooms each day. “With a teacher’s attention spread so increasingly thin, learning done in school is no longer enough to ensure students are able to compete in our global marketplace,” explains Sadlowski.

It’s why Spotlight Learning places such an enormous importance on one-onone sessions. Students thrive when given individualized attention, says Sadlowski. “They are able to ask endless questions without fear, and can have a concept repeated over and over if necessary until they understand,” she says. “Our students work with a learning coach who is supportive and believes in them… someone they can go to with questions and get things explained to them in the way they need. Learning coaches also help their students set goals, develop plans and organize their study schedule, allowing them to prioritize and work independently when the learning coach is not there. Students are held accountable to their learning coach, which helps them learn self-discipline as they prepare for the next session. Once a month, the learning coaches — trained educators chosen with a skill set and complementary personality to each student — submit a report, which summarizes their feedback following each session and states current goals. This is shared with parents. In addition, with caregivers’ permission, Sadlowski communicates with teachers to obtain their observations from the classroom and uses this information in the goal setting process. Ultimately, says Sadlowski, with this oneon-one learning method, students “gain a champion, a person who supports them, and helps them to develop learning skills as well as self-confidence, motivation and a love of learning.” The Comfort of Home Spotlight Learning is passionate about giving students the much-needed attention they may not be receiving in the classroom in the comfort and convenience of their home, explains Sadlowski. It’s not only convenient for parents (it’s one less place to be at on time!), it also provides a sort of comfort for students struggling academically. “It’s comfortable and it’s convenient both for the parents and the student,” says Sadlowski. “And there is always flexibility.” Choose Spotlight Many parents understand the need for academic support for their student. Up until now, content tutoring has been the only option to consider when looking for assistance. In some circumstances, tutoring in a specific subject area is most appropriate and available. However, in many situations,

what is holding a student back from being successful academically is their ability to learn how to learn. “Similar to an athletic coach, a learning coach helps to close the gap between ability and achievement, and students develop their full potential at a greater pace. They also build more confidence,” says Sadlowski. “They are more engaged in the learning, and once they see success, that confidence allows them take greater risks, like raise their hand more often in class, or go to the teacher for clarification when they don’t understand something. It gives them the confidence to move forward.” For Sadlowski, it’s a rewarding job — one that consistently sees learners from Kindergarten to Grade 12 absorb the essential tools and strategies to become independent, lifelong learners. “I love seeing the smile that comes when they show me a report card or

assignment when they’ve gotten a good grade; when they see that they can do it, and they’re really proud of their success.” Every child has a great mind. Let Spotlight Learning help them reach their full potential. Call today for a free, no-obligation in-home conversation to discuss the needs of your student. RK

Spotlight Learning 613.777.0480 info#spotlightlearning.ca spotlightlearning.ca

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BEST of the BEST custom home builder

Sobella Homes building trust

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos by Bell Photo and Unveiled Photography.

hen you make the decision to build your dream home, choosing a company to make your imaginings become reality is often the hardest part of the process. But it doesn’t have to be. Since 2004, Sobella Homes has been at the forefront of the building industry. Its owners, Marten and Karen Bos, have formed an indomitable business based not only on integrity, but honesty and trust. “People know they can trust what we say and the process of what we’re doing, and customers appreciate that,” says Karen, who uses her astonishing talent to design the majority of houses Sobella Homes constructs. “There’s a lot of gratefulness for the integrity of ourselves as builders, as well as for our company.” Born to Build Marten began his career in building when he was just a boy; a hammer in his young hand, he learned the skills of the trade

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from his talented father. Throughout the years, he’s honed those talents into an exceptional craft, and in turn, has earned huge amounts of respect — both within the industry and among clients. “We let our clients know from the very start that we will take the time and the care needed to create an exceptional home for them — one with uncompromising quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail,” says Marten. With Karen working alongside him, the duo is able to make all of their clients’ dreams a reality. Timeless Design, Incomparable Customer Service Having combined their remarkable skills, Marten and Karen have an ability to predict the hottest up-and-coming home trends, and the talent to mould them to remain timeless. “We like to be on trend with our designs, but we like the style to be enduring, as well,” explains Karen, unfolding her plans for an upcoming custom build and placing them on the table before her.

“Together, we bring a lot of innovation and design that isn’t often found in the industry.” While the couple has become known for their designs, they’ve also become recognized throughout the Limestone City for the oneon-one attention they unconditionally give to every client. “Marten works closely with our clients throughout the entire process, and ensures they become an integral part of it. We really believe they should not be left outside of the scope of the project; on the contrary, they should be kept wellinformed and their input and ideas both welcomed and valued,” says Karen. “Many of our clients have become great friends through the process of building their home.” Ontario Builder of the Year Named after the couple’s daughters, Sophia and Isabella, Sobella Homes is truly a family affair. “It’s very much a family business, we put a lot of ourselves into it,” says Karen. “We care so much about every house we built, and every project we work on.”

“Of all the things we’ve built, your trust is valued most.” Sobella Homes

It seems that dedication and commitment to excellence has worked out for them. Sobella Homes is the only Kingstonarea builder to have been awarded the prestigious Ontario Builder of the Year Award from Tarion. “It means everything,” says Marten gratefully, explaining that the award was made possible because of their clients. “It’s a vote of confidence in what we do and who we are. It was huge for us to win, because it’s the people that we have built the houses for, that are living in our houses, that made this award possible. It means so much to be recognized like that … to be recognized for that love of creating something timeless with your own two hands; something that will live on longer than any of us will.” Perhaps it’s Marten and Karen’s remarkable skills that have gotten them this far, but their undying passion for the craft certainly hasn’t hurt, either. “It’s just fun creating,” says Marten. “That’s what I was going to say,” Karen jumps in. “It’s just so much fun!

It’s wonderful when you have an idea of something in your head, and build it with your hands and see the finished product … and you know a family is going to be living and loving in there. Building our clients’ homes is a huge responsibility, and it’s one that we both cherish and immensely appreciate.” Although the term “a match made in heaven” may be slightly clichéd, with this power couple, it is the perfect description. With Karen’s eye for design, and Marten’s astonishing building skills, there really is no place like home — a Sobella home. RK “We won the ‘house-builder lottery’ when we hired them, and we’ll always be grateful for the outstanding craftsmanship and service they have provided, and continue to provide us, since day one.”

Sobella Homes 613.536.9667 info@sobellahomes.com sobellahomes.com

-Michael Froess

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BEST of the BEST hair studio

TG. Co Hair Studio Show Your True Colour, Embrace Your Style By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

Joan Crawford once said, “I think the most important thing a woman can have — next to talent, of course — is her hairdresser.” She just may have been onto something. “When clients leave a salon, they leave feeling much better about themselves because they like what they see in their hair,” says Tania Hutson, co-owner of TG. Co Hair Studio. “Your hair is the frame of your face, and if you’re frame is not pretty, it doesn’t highlight the beautiful parts of your face.” “As stylists, we are giving clients — and that includes men, as well — the gift of highlighting his or her face. We give them the best frame to showcase their features,” says Hutson’s charismatic younger brother, Gustavo Rosas De La Paz. A Family Affair Growing up in Mexico, Hutson and her charismatic younger brother Gustavo Rosas De La Paz spent countless hours at their mother’s salon, learning the trade and honing their incredible talent without even realizing it. “We were born into hair styling,” says Hutson. “It was meant to be.” Although both siblings dabbled in other interests for a while, there was something about hair styling that called out to them, and it wasn’t long before they embraced their destiny. After meeting her Canadian husband, Hutson found herself settling happily in the Limestone City. She found a job at a local salon, and spent 13 years perfecting her remarkable skills. Rosas De La Paz joined her at the same salon, where he worked for seven years. Although they both say their time at the salon was an “amazing experience” they knew they wanted to open their own salon one day.

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And last September, that’s exactly what they did. TG. Co Hair Studio is Born A sleek, contemporary salon on Gardiners Road, TG. Co Hair Studio prides itself on its unpretentious, welcoming environment. The sound of nearly constant laughter flows through the bright and open space, with five talented stylists working their creative magic. “Without the people that work with us, we would be nothing,” says Rosas De La Paz. “Everyone is an artist in here — each of them is just as passionate about the craft as we are.”

Both siblings say being advocates for such major, well-respected companies has been a fantastic opportunity for them to continue to hone and expand their skills in an industry that’s constantly evolving. “A lot of people get concentrated on a craft, and they don’t venture into other training. It doesn’t make sense to me,” says Hutson. “It’s important to keep evolving your skills, taking classes and never thinking that’s it — because you’re never the best at anything. You become best at what you do by training and learning more things.”

Each stylist at TG. Co Hair Studio offers a wide range of hair-related services, whether it’s giving clients a cut that showcases their style and personality, a bouncy blowdry that can last for days, or an incredible colour that has an immedicable impact on self-confidence. “Whatever your imagination can conjure when it comes to your hair, that’s what we do,” says Hutson, comfortably settled on the sleek, black sofa in the salon’s front entrance. “The best part is all the stylists on the team have different styles and personalities — making it easy to cater to a wide range of clients,” she adds.

A major part of that learning comes from participation in competitions, explains Hutson. It’s why the brother and sister take part in them often — they even hosted one at their salon a few months ago. “Competitions push your boundaries and help you know who you are as an artist,” she says. “You get to know more people and get to see more things, so it opens your mind and horizons. It shows you that you’re not the best stylist, because there are so many out there and you get to learn from them.”

Wella and Sebastian Advocates Although Hutson and Rosas De La Paz detest formal titles (it is part of their unassuming charm), there’s simply no denying the dynamic duo are master stylists to their very core. It’s why both siblings have been asked by major companies to represent their brands. Hutson is a product specialist for Wella, which means she hosts training sessions in the Kingston area for the brand’s new products. It’s an honour to be chosen, explains Hutson, because such specialists must be hand-chosen by the companies. Her brother, meanwhile, is an advocate for Sebastian, teaching styling and product knowledge to stylists in the area.

His sister feels the same way. “We love it,” she says. “I always say I can’t ask for a better job, because it doesn’t feel like I’m working.” When asked why people should check out their salon, both siblings looked at each other, and at the same time laughed and said, “Why not?” Touché. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the hands of your stylist. Book your next appointment at TG. Co Hair Studio for an amazing experience you won’t soon forget.

A Passion for the Craft With a history rooted in hairstyling, one would expect there to be some amount of love for the craft. But with these siblings, the word “passion” doesn’t even come close. They both share an indelible love for hairstyling, one that continues to grow stronger every day. For them, “the daily grind” is a term they’re happily unfamiliar with. “Since I have memories, I grew up in an environment like this,” says Rosas De La Paz, joining his sister on the couch. “My first birthday party was on my mother’s desk at her hair studio. It’s just something I have had in my life since day one. It doesn’t feel like work to me. It feels like home.”

TG. Co Hair Studio 834 Gardiners Rd, Kingston 613.389.5554

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BEST of O the BEST F BEST BEST spa spa

Touch of Wellness Spa Unwind Your Mind, Revitalize Your Soul By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough Photos Stephen Wild

f you’re seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of your everyday routine, Touch of Wellness Spa is the perfect sanctuary to escape from it all. Centrally located in the heart of downtown Napanee, Touch of Wellness Spa is recognized among countless spagoers as being the ultimate relaxation destination — and for good reason. With a focus on providing ‘The Extra Touch’ to every single guest, the spa has flawlessly perfected the art of pampering. “All you have to do is arrive and let total relaxation begin,” says owner Joanne Burke, who wholly believes in the importance of self-care. “The consequences can be tremendous when you don’t make time for self-nurturing. If you aren’t occasionally relaxed, refreshed and restored, you can’t serve anyone well.” With a myriad of services that promise to rejuvenate you from the inside out, the only problem you’ll have at the spa

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is deciding which service you want to experience first. Pedicures Now that the season of sexy sandals is upon is, it’s important to treat your feet. Touch of Wellness offers numerous pedicure treatments, whether you want to soften skin and soothe tired, aching feet, or enjoy an invigorating exfoliation and massage. If you want to maintain perfectly polished toes all season long, you’ll love the spa’s new pedicure program; every fifth pedicure is free. There’s never been a better reason to kick up your feet. Facials Touch of Wellness offers a variety of Aveda facials designed to tackle every skin issue you might have. Are you hoping to improve your skin texture, clarity and radiance, and smooth the appearance of those pesky fine lines

and wrinkles? Try the spa’s Dual Exfoliation Treatment. “You will see immediate, visible results within one treatment,” says Joanne, who explains that the immensely popular facial combines innovative techniques and biochemical exfoliation methods into one powerful service. Do you have a teen suffering from acne? Treat them to the spa’s Outer Peace Acne Relief Treatment. This multifaceted facial treatment will help clear the skin without over-drying and irritating side effects. With special focus on skin exfoliation and visible redness reduction, the facial improves skin’s overall appearance and prevents future blemishes. This summer, be sure to take advantage of the spa’s Plant Peel special: purchase any three Aveda products and receive a free Plant Peel facial. “The Perfecting Plant Peel system is clinically proven to provide the instant exfoliation and radiance benefits of a 30 per cent

For beauty that’s naturally you, be sure to enjoy Touch of Wellness’ facial program: receive a complimentary facial every fourth visit.

“All you have to do is arrive and let total relaxation begin.” Joanne Burke

glycolic peel, without the associated redness and irritation,” explains Joanne. “The result is smooth, refined and eventoned skin — skin that looks perfected by nature.”

Another Reason to Indulge The only licensed Aveda spa in Canada, Touch of Wellness offers a selection of top-shelf liquors, as well as awardwinning red and white wine.

Pain Free Laser Hair Removal Put aside that cover-up, and don your bikini with pride. Featuring the Soprano laser hair removal system, Touch of Wellness is on the leading edge of painfree laser hair removal. The Soprano hair removal system is effective on all skin types and hair colours and 20 per cent more effective than IPL laser technology. Those receiving treatments are also able to continue tanning. Imagine never shaving or waxing again.

Before and after your treatments, be sure to enjoy the relaxing fireplace room with the spa’s complimentary light snacks. There’s also a choice of complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, including a wide variety of teas and specialty coffees. Lunch and dinner can be served when pre-booked with your treatment.

An added bonus? Touch of Wellness offers a financing program that makes it possible for everyone to enjoy the benefits of pain-free laser hair removal. This June and July, enjoy 20 per cent off all laser packages. Call the spa for a complimentary laser consultation.

A Top-Notch Team The entire Touch of Wellness team is dedicated to making each guest’s experience at Touch of Wellness a memorable and relaxing one. “That’s why the spa is a success; it’s the team,” says Joanne. “The products are amazing and the space is wonderful, but the team is what has made the spa explode. And they continually do it every single day. They genuinely care about our guests. I

have so many people who come in and tell me they can feel the warmth from the ladies that work here. It is absolutely an environment conducive to well-being.” Touch of Wellness Spa: there’s no place like this for indulging. Book your appointment today. RK

Touch of Wellness 86 Centre Street, Napanee 613.354.3131 touchofwellnessnapanee.com

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EXPERT ADVICE

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employee benefits & life insurance

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general overview overview of of some some of of the the upcoming upcoming changes changes AA general starting January 1, 2017: starting January 1, 2017:

Meeting with with your your insurance insurance advisor advisor to to complete complete aa current current Meeting reviewof ofyour yourlife lifeinsurance insuranceplanning planninggoals goalsand andopportunities opportunities review very important important first first step. step. To To ensure ensure requests requests can can be be met met isis aa very prior to to January January 1,1, 2017, 2017, each each insurance insurance company company isis setting setting itsits prior own deadlines deadlines for for receipt receipt of of applications applications and and policy policy changes. changes. own Contactingyour yourinsurance insuranceadvisor advisortoday todaywill willhelp helpensure ensureyou youhave have Contacting the time time necessary necessary to to complete complete the the process process properly. properly. the

► Permanent Permanent participating participating life life insurance insurance policies policies issued issued after after ► 2016 will have less room for tax-advantaged cash value inside 2016 will have less room for tax-advantaged cash value inside the policy policy over over the the long long term. term. the ► For For universal universal life life policies policies issued issued inin 2017 2017 and and later, later, the the change change ► will result in: will result in: Higher investment investment income income tax tax •• Higher • An increase in the cost of universal life life insurance insurance • An increase in the cost of universal • Less room for tax-advantaged value inside the policy policy • Less room for tax-advantaged value inside the over the long term over the long term ►Formost mostpolicies policiesissued issuedafter after2016, 2016,the thepossible possibletax taxdeductions deductions ►For for collateral loans will reduce. for collateral loans will reduce.

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Some clients clients may may appreciate appreciate that that with with the the upcoming upcoming Some changes: changes:

*A policy policy can can lose lose itsits grandfathered grandfathered status status ifif certain certain changes changes are are *A made after after 2016, 2016, including including term term conversions, conversions, or or policy policy changes changes made that would would increase increase coverage coverage and and require require medical medical underwriting. underwriting. that Thematerial materialprovided providedisisofofaageneral generalnature natureand andshould shouldnot notbe beconstrued construedas as The providinglegal legalorortax taxadvice. advice. Reasonable Reasonableefforts effortshave havebeen beenmade madeto toensure ensure providing accuracy,but buterrors errorsare arepossible. possible. itsitsaccuracy, PhotoofofBryce Bryceand andShannon Shannonby: by:Taylor TaylorStudios Studios Photo Photo©iStock.com/BCPbenefits ©iStock.com/BCPbenefits Photo

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