Lifestyle May/June 2018 Online

MAY/JUNE 2018

HOME RENOS

INTERIORS

NEW HOMES

BEAUTY

FASHION

FOOD

TRAVEL

HEALTH

AUTO

SHOPPING

WINNING WAYS

LOTTERY HOMES YOU’LL LOVE

MAKING MEMORIES AND HOW TO KEEP THEM

COUPLE TIME ON THE ROAD TO HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

throwing shade

cool coverage options www.lifestylemagazineonline.com

T H E GR AYS TONE A DVANTAG E

New Model Home Opening in April An exclusive community of architecturally-designed, luxury homes. Located on an elevated ridge, the site enjoys a prime location bordering the beautiful and natural environment of the Warbler Woods permanent open space, offering residents an impressive vista over the west end of the city. Stunning, Beautiful!

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Homestyle Made in the shade

Maximize backyard enjoyment

Decorate your deck Outdoor décor for any style

Built by love

Duplicating decades of life together

Winning big

Hospital raffles dream homes

Shoring up

A home on Huron could be yours

Reawaken Your Space

SALE It’s spring, which means it’s time for new beginnings. Come into LivingLIGHTING today to see our wide selection of ON SALE lighting. Sale ends May 28, 2018.

Lessons learned

Buyer beware when planning renos

Bestlife An event to remember Olympians raise funds

Two for the road

Couples cycle for health and happiness

Culturelife

Music, art, dance and theatre

Remember this

Unveiling the mysteries of memory

Travelstyle Caribbean hideaway Visit beautiful Bonaire

Fun in the sun

Four festivals in Port Stanley

Head to the Bend For clean eating

Yourstyle Clearing out

Spring clean your closet

Bizlife Ovenclean London Magari Fashions Dr. Marilena Marignani Voekel London Brouwer Plumbing and Heating Porsche of London

www.livinglighting.com

1673 Richmond St. North at Fanshawe, 519-667-3022

London, On N6G 2N3 livinglightinglondonnorth.xolights.com londonnorth@livinglighting.com May/June 2018

Lifestyle 5

2

GREAT STORES

1 GREAT LOCATION

London Bath Centre

WE MAKE DREAMS COME TRUE PROUD PARTNERS OF DREAM HOUSE LONDON!

COME VISIT US

600 WHARNCLIFFE ROAD SOUTH LONDON ON

www.modernlivinglondon.com 519.649.0686

596 WHARNCLIFFE ROAD SOUTH LONDON ON

www.londonbathcentre.ca 519.686.0499

LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER Lana L. Breier EDITOR Jill Ellis-Worthington WRITERS Ellen Ashton-Haiste Clare Dear Jill Ellis-Worthington Kathy Mueller Wayne Newton Kathy Rumleski Heather Toskan ACCOUNT MANAGERS Annette Gent 519-200-0283 annettegent537@gmail.com Lorraine Lukings 519-520-7676 lorrainelukings@hotmail.com Jan McGrath 519-243-2932 jm@lambtonshores.com Elaine Norris 519-702-5583 lifestyleelaine@hotmail.com Wilma Van Vaerenbergh 519-476-5571 lifestylewilma@gmail.com EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN Wendy Reid Nancy Greenfield AD DESIGN Nancy Greenfield Bill McGrath Wendy Reid PRODUCTION Nancy Greenfield PHOTOGRAPHY Richard Bain John Morse PRINTING Sportswood Printing WEB ARCHITECTURE Redding Design Inc. www.reddingdesigns.com

Lifestyle is published six times a year by 2251632 Ontario Inc. c.o.b. Lifestyle Magazine 108 Tuyll Street, Bayfield N0M 1G0 519-873-0989 lifestylemagazinepublishing@gmail.com Copies are distributed to selected homes, magazine stands and local businesses in London and area.

Canada Post Agreement #41277015 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited material.

All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 7

BUILDING ORIGINAL HOMES FOR ORIGINAL PEOPLE We’ll make your next home as original as you are Why settle for a run-of-the-mill custom home when you can have an entirely original one? With a planning process that starts with nothing more than your dreams and a blank sheet of paper, you can be sure your Riverstone Original Home will be every bit as unique and remarkable as you are.

We’ve been building original homes for well over 20 years now, and each one has been entirely different than the one before it.

And that’s exactly how it should be.

www.riverstoneoriginalhomes.com 519 . 666 . 3537 Mike Loyens • Travis Loyens

8 Lifestyle May/June 2018

EDITOR’S note Photo credit: Richard Bain

“She knew that this day, this feeling, couldn’t last forever. Everything passed; that was partly why it was so beautiful. Things would get difficult again. But that was okay too.

The bravery was in moving forward, no matter what.”

– AUTHOR LAUREN OLIVER, PANIC

T

ime passes and memories matter.

Those are just a couple of the realizations that I’ve had during the four years that I’ve been editing Lifestyle Magazine.

Since the May/June 2014 issue, I’ve worked beside dedicated professionals, talked to devoted clients, interviewed knowledgeable and eloquent sources and written more than 100 stories for this publication. There have been some changes in staffing, updates in design and refocusing on content.

Because time passes, tastes change and we must update and reinvent ourselves. As one of London’s longest standing glossy magazines, with the consistently highest page count, we feel a responsibility to represent our readers’ interests by always bringing fresh ideas, inventive perspectives and unique takes on home décor, travel destinations, construction methods and lifestyle options.

I’m often asked how I know so much about so many things and am able to write stories that cover so many subjects. While that’s flattering, it’s also not possible. Truth is I know little but learn much. Knowing who to ask, what to ask and how to translate that information is the equation we follow here at Lifestyle Magazine. That’s where the entire team comes into play – knowing who to ask. We often take our questions to our advertising clients, as they are the experts in their various fields.

The sales team is great at letting us know who has a new project, what new methods someone is using or sharing an idea that’s been shared with them.

We’ve made a lot of memories over the 18-year history of Lifestyle Magazine, and I’m pleased to have been included in its production for the last four of those. Celebrating my fourth anniversary here brings many memories – both fond and frustrating – and I’m happy to be able to review those at leisure. I’m intrigued by the quality of memory and being allowed to explore questions about where memories live, how they are formed and how we recall them better is rewarding. I hope you agree and enjoy my story on page 52.

Turns out that having a better memory is simple: good food, quality sleep and consistent exercise are as good for your brain as they are for your body.

To health and happiness as we celebrate four years together!

Wishing you safe travels,

Jill Ellis-Worthington lifestyle.editor@writedoton.com

homestyle

shade

MADE IN THE ESCAPING THE SCORCHING HEAT IS PRACTICAL AND BEAUTIFUL

By Kathy Rumleski

We long for warmth and sunshine for many months of the year only to desire a shady retreat when the hot temperatures hit.

You can have it both ways with some planning and patience.

Creating some shade in your backyard for warm summer days necessitates both short- and long-term planning. 

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 9

Living OUTDOORS

“

beautifully

6867 Wellington Rd. S. • 519-686-0027 heritagegardengallery.com PROCESS COLOUR

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10 Lifestyle May/June 2018

AVERY

J

Water, especially if it’s moving, is soothing and will have a cooling effect on you. People tell us it has changed their lives.”

ohn C. Young, the eponymous owner of a landscaping and design company in Delaware, specializing in custom-built outdoor living spaces and water gardens, says getting your focal point is the first step. He says it could be a water feature or swimming pool and from there you build your outdoor living area around it.

For immediate shade around the water, he recommends a mobile covered awning that can be moved with the seasons. Young says a cabana will provide lasting protection from the sun and there are many styles and designs to choose from.

Young has been landscaping in stages for more than 30 years and says each year you can add to your shady oasis. “I’ve been in situations where we’ve gone from full sun to full shade and the plantings have totally changed.”

He adds that if you’re planning long term, consider planting a sugar maple tree that can grow up to 35 metres tall. It will grace your yard with colour as the summer gives way to radiant fall.

Grace Boekestyn, owner/retail manager of Heritage Garden Gallery, which marks 30 years in business this year, says finding colourful flowers for a shaded area can be difficult. “There are not a lot of plants that bloom well in shade but you can overcome that with some beautiful foliage plants that give lots of texture and variety of colour.”

– John C. Young

Boekestyn recommends cultivating hostas, brunnera and ferns, along with flowering perennials such as astilbe, woodland phlox and bleeding hearts that can withstand shade. If you prefer annuals, she suggests blue angel, begonias and fuchsias.

For an instant punch of colour in your shady sanctuary, she recommends looking for bright and beautiful pots.

“It looks gorgeous if you have a colourful pot with foliage in it. It’s an artsy flair.”

The other plus with using pots is that they provide low-maintenance gardening. “You can move them in and out of shade and into the rain to get water, and you’re not battling weeds when you use pots,” she says.

If you want immediate shade this summer, use an existing structure such as the side of a garage, and soften the area with foliage, chimes and a gazing ball to reflect some light, she suggests.

When planning your outdoor space, Boekestyn says people sometimes forget to consider all the senses. Plants that do well in shade and have a lovely scent include lily-of-the-valley, phlox and the mock orange shrub.

Tall, ornamental grasses can create some shade and appeal to eye and ear, Boekestyn says. “The beautiful thing about grass is it creates a sound that’s therapeutic.”

Young says a bubbling rocks water feature provides many benefits and is pleasing to the senses. “Water, espe-

cially if it’s moving, is soothing and will have a cooling effect on you. We’ve done water features continuously for the last 25 years, and I don’t have to teach people to love it. They automatically love it.

People tell us it has changed their lives.”

And of course, walking barefoot in

NEW HOMES

•

ADDITIONS

•

the grass is a rite of summer and feels luxurious under foot.

Young says above all when outdoors, enjoy it and take pleasure in the process of creating your backyard space.

“Landscaping is a living, active thing that you’re participating in.” n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION HERITAGE GARDEN GALLERY 6867 Wellington Road South, London (Glanworth) 519-686-0027 • www.heritagegardengallery.com JOHN C YOUNG DESIGN 11353 Longwoods Road, Delaware 519-652-2911 • www.johncyoungdesign.com

RENOVATIONS

WE BUILD HOMES FOR LIFE

Beautiful Landscapes BEGIN WITH OUR TEAM

DESIGN AND BUILD OF LANDSCAPES AND IRRIGATION, LIGHTING AND LAWN & GARDEN CARE View our project gallery at: www.keithhunt.ca 519 765-2666 • keith@keithhunt.ca Member in good standing of the Tarion Home Warranty Program since 1997.

519.951.5483 LEARN MORE AT:

www.lighthouselandscape.ca • www.trustthefrog.ca May/June 2018

Lifestyle 11

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS IN BUSINESS

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12 Lifestyle May/June 2018

519.854.3368 Strathroy, oN

marketplace exterior style The Lyndon 52� fan by Kichler damp-rated for covered outside use with wall remote.

Living Lighting London. livinglightinglondonnorth.xolights.com

Outdoor rug from Kalora is flatweave fabricated from polypropylene. UV and mildew resistant. Easy to clean.

Accents Home Furniture. www.accentshomefurniture.com

Outdoor canvas art has been treated to withstand the elements.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com Outdoor LED light holders.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

South Hope by Kichler is a bluetooth, rechargeable, dimmable LED light, damp-rated for exterior use.

Living Lighting London. livinglightinglondonnorth.xolights.com

French bistro-style dining table has a dark brown textilene surface and glass top. Accents Home Furniture. www.accentshomefurniture.com

French bistro-style outdoor dining chair.

Durable synthetic mesh seat and back covers a faux bamboo frame.

Accents Home Furniture. www.accentshomefurniture.com

Decorative bird garden art.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

get wild

OUTDOORS LIVING

DIRECT FROM MOTHER NATURE – COLOURS, TEXTURES AND MATERIALS TO DECORATE YOUR DECK.

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 13

Wallpaper is SO in - and SO easy!

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14 Lifestyle May/June 2018

ginette minor • 519-494-0787 St. Thomas, Ontario www.alexelleslipcovers.houzz.com ginette.minor@gmail.com Certified Sewing Specialist

marketplace exterior style

Art for the garden.

Outdoor canvas – treated to withstand the elements.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

Poly-resin wicker-look dining set. Durable and weather resistant.

Aluminum framed and rust proof. Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

Outdoor lanterns.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

Outdoor toss cushions.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

ABOVE RIGHT Poly-resin wicker-look conversation set.

LEFT Lounge chair and ottoman. Both durable and weather resistant. Aluminum framed and rust proof.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

Outdoor toss cushions.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

OUTDOORS LIVING

Be colourful

NAUGHTY NAUTICALS AND WILD WICKERS PROVIDE A PERFECT PALETTE FOR THE PATIO.

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 15

YOUR OUTDOOR FURNITURE EXPERTS

Enjoy… Indulge… Relax…

CANADIAN MADE

Beale MeasureFill kitchen faucet

VISIT OUR COMPLETE SHOWROOM ACE AWARDS - Best Showroom Design Centre ACE AWARDS - Best Subtrade of the Year 833 Central Ave., London b 519.672.1631 www.brouwerplumbing.com

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Welcome Home to

16 Lifestyle May/June 2018

44 Meg Dr. (@ Exeter Rd) London, On 519.668.1200 1.800.265.1208 www.tableandchair.ca Mon-Wed 10-6 • Thurs-Fri 10-8 Sat 10-6 • Sun 11-4

marketplace exterior style

Nouveau classic chair, moulded from Lexan, is UV resistant. Available in white or transparent.

Accents Home Furniture. www.accentshomefurniture.com

Baybreeze conversation set: sectional, ottoman and matching side table. The Table and Chair Co. www.tableandchair.ca

The Dad stool doubles as accent table.

Epoxy and cement-blend.

Accents Home Furniture. www.accentshomefurniture.com

The Brother side table is a modern bowlstyle design. Epoxy and cement-blend. Solid Acacia wood legs. Accents Home Furniture. www.accentshomefurniture.com

The Tidal Chair. Mid-Century modern re-invented for outdoors. Sloped molded seat.

Acacia wood legs. Three colour options.

Accents Home Furniture. www.accentshomefurniture.com

Bluetooth rechargeable speaker, with dimmable light, is damp-rated for outdoor use.

Living Lighting London. livinglightinglondonnorth.xolights.com

Decorative patio sculpture.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

A modern take on outdoor planters.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

go natural

OUTDOORS Outdoor clock.

Heritage Garden Gallery. www.heritagegardengallery.com

LIVING

SERENITY SURROUNDS YOU WITH THESE EARTHY TEXTURES AND TONES FOR THE TERRACE.

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 17

homestyle

A MIRROR

to the future

By Kathy Rumleski

NEW HOME REFLECTS WELLLOVED FEATURES OF FARMSTEAD TOP This newly-built home retains characteristics of the couple’s former farm house that they lived in for decades. Focal points, such as family heirloom books, and traditional touches – like those in the great room, with its dark woods and Tiffany-style lighting fixtures – add to the distinguished feel of the residence. ABOVE The Aylmer home was built specifically for Wayne and Wendy Hiepleh by Keith Hunt Construction.

18 Lifestyle May/June 2018

W

hen Aylmer contractor Keith Hunt was asked to build a home for a couple he’d known since high school, he knew it would be a spectacular project.

For all involved though, it turned out even better than imagined.

“It’s one of those projects that comes once in a lifetime,” Hunt says about the custom-built home for Wayne and Wendy Hiepleh at 158 Caverly Road in Aylmer.

From the octagonal room with a vaulted ceiling to the 15-foot island in the kitchen, each feature of the residence is tailored to the couple, married almost 40 years.

“It’s not designed with anyone else in mind, other than Wayne and Wendy,” Hunt says.

Like the connection of the cabinetry from the kitchen to the dining room that ensures a graceful transition between rooms, the move for the couple from farm to town was made

smoother by the thoughtful use of transition pieces. For example, the gas fireplace mantel in the octagonal room is the exact same design as the one in their farmhouse, as is the gothic window that greets visitors from above in the front of the home.

Antiques and heirlooms such as books that belonged to Wayne’s great grandparents, dating from the 1800s, add distinction to the residence.

The octagonal room is an unforgettable eight-sided space. It is a scaled-down version of a room that the couple enjoyed in their farmhouse.

“We wanted to downsize but we still had things we weren’t willing to give up yet,” Wendy says.

These pieces bring with them memories, stitching together the life they shared in the century-plus farmhouse for 38 years and the modern elegance they’ve planned on Caverly Road. 

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT The kitchen features a 15-foot island, providing plenty of prep room for family dinner parties.

• Cabinetry that extends from the kitchen to the

dining room provides a smooth transition between spaces.

• The charm of their century-old farmhouse is echoed in the traditional pieces that

populate the rooms of the new Caverly Road home. • Built-in storage spaces – like those of the dining room – assured the Hieplehs that they would have places to

keep well-loved items that made the move with them. • The octagonshaped room in the new home is a replica of one in their former residence, right down to the design

of its mantelpiece.

• The dramatic wall colour shows off white woodwork and perfectly highlights the graceful stained glass transom windows of the home.

®

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Lifestyle 19

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A MIRROR TO THE FUTURE ~ Continued from page 19

Barry Acheson was the architect of the 4,000-square foot home and worked with the specifications given to him by the Hieplehs.

“It was nice for us because Wayne and Wendy…knew exactly what they wanted, even before the job started,” says Hunt, who has owned his company – which specializes in construction cost consulting and project management – for more than 25 years. “Wendy even knew where she was going to place her furniture. That helped us with electrical and mechanical layout.”

The open concept kitchen, which includes a walk-in pantry with enough storage to please any bulk buyer, ensures the food preparer doesn’t miss any of the action in the dining room or at the pool table, which is the gateway to the great room.

“At 5 p.m., when we’re done doing whatever we’re doing, we usually have three games, maybe two if someone wins two in a row,” says Wendy. “It’s fun.”

The abundance of windows allows natural light. This, coupled with the clean lines, accentuate the rich colours of the walls, such as America’s Cup blue and Midnight Hour. The chosen hues also show off the lovely custom cabinetry in several rooms and the maple bookshelf, all built locally

by Peter Wall.

The spacious garage provides a workshop area for Wayne or could hold up to four cars. A U-shaped driveway sets the house set back from the street and gives the property a sense of elegance.

The Hieplehs moved into the home last November, but most of the landscaping got underway with spring’s warmer weather. The work included putting in a patio with a pergola at the back of the house that sits on a 650-foot deep lot abutting a field.

A gas fireplace on the back deck of the home provides a nice option to sit and enjoy the outdoors. There’s also a fire pit with a picnic table on a sandy area for after dark.

“They were busy their whole lives working on the farm. They’re just starting to enjoy their retirement,” Hunt says. And enjoying it in style. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION KEITH HUNT CONSTRUCTION 519-765-2666 • www.keithhunt.ca

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Lifestyle 21

CATANA is honoured to be the official supplier of windows and doors for the London Dream Home Lottery.

see the difference Visit the London Dream Home, crafted by Millstone Homes, to experience the launch of CATANA’s newest product line - luxury aluminum-clad wood windows by Unilux. These stunningly beautiful windows are a game changer for both builders and homeowners.

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homestyle

FIRST IN CLASS LOTTERY HOMES BREAK NEW GROUND

Diverse and unique are watchwords of the Spring 2018 Dream Lottery homes.

“Offering spectacular prize options, like this spring's two showcase homes in London and the Muskoka-inspired cottage near Bayfield, has helped Dream Lottery raise $31.6 million net since 1996,” says Children’s Health Foundation president and CEO Scott Fortnum.

“Those funds help London hospitals provide outstanding specialized, complex and critical care for patients from across our region."

Muskoka Meets Bayfield is the theme for Meinen Custom Homes’ upscale cottage near Bayfield, says company president John Meinen. While keeping the cottage ambiance,

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

the home showcases high-end finishes, such as stone and James Hardieboard with post-andbeam accents on the exterior. Interior features include a river rock stone fireplace surround, in-floor radiant heating and a kitchen island with wooden chopping block counter.

It’s also net-zero ready, Meinen notes. This means that it’s designed to produce as much energy as it consumes. Solar panels, for which roughed in mechanicals have been included, is one of the features that make this possible.

The 2,300-square-foot, two-bedroom-plusden home is a bungalow with an upper loft containing an additional bedroom, bathroom and bonus room. 

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Meinen Custom Homes provides space to entertain in this bungalow-meets-loft home. • Homey touches – like the butcher block countertop island – and a contemporary colour palette – contrasting dark and light hues – highlight the chef’s kitchen.

• Muskoka Meets Bayfield is the theme for this home with 2,300 square feet of living space. • The Bayfield Lottery home is net-zero, meaning that it produces as much energy as it uses.

• With two bedrooms plus a den, the winners will be able to invite guests for a cottage weekend in this alwayspopular village on the shores of Lake Huron.

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 23

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Cool colours and sleek lines highlight the contemporary design of one of the two Lottery homes on Baseline Road. • One of four bedrooms, a large master suite provides a serene getaway for the home’s eventual owners. • This twostorey home is modern in design, with dramatic features like the slender window shown here that spans both floors.

• Plenty of prep space is just one of the features of this chef’s kitchen in the Millstone home at 1452 Baseline Road.

In London’s Byron neighbourhood, Millstone Homes is labelling its side-by-side offerings as Street of Dreams.

The two-storey homes use modern architecture with innovative touches to tie them together from the outside, says Lea Legg, co-designer with Angela Bobanovic.

Both have stucco and stone exteriors, one with large tile accents on the upper storey and the other featuring imported marble mosaic accent walls, a first for London, she asserts.

A notable feature, she adds, is the inclusion of an in-ground pool at one house, which is a first for a London dream home.

Inside the designs are virtual opposites Legg says. “We

designed them very differently but both demonstrate Millstone’s reputation for pushing the envelope.”

They are open-concept layouts geared to buyers who appreciate good design and enjoy entertaining, she says. Both have four bedrooms on the upper level.

One home, a make-over of an existing Millstone house, incorporates a variety of materials layered together to create a neutral and natural ambiance. The other, a new-build, is more modern and high-contrast.

Both have fireplaces, one traditional gas with a custom hearth and the other burning ethanol, thus eliminating the need for venting. 

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Lifestyle 25

LL9637

2018 BAYFIELD SPRING DREAM LOTTERY HOME

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The renovated home features a high-gloss chef kitchen with no handles, everything opening by touch. The new build, on the other hand, is anchored by two extremely different sculptural islands, for contrast, and also features pitt cooking burners, individual gas burners set right on the quartz countertop. 

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May/June 2018

Lifestyle 27

FIRST IN CLASS ~ Continued from page 27

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bizlife

The sparkle touch for stoves and barbecues

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste Ask any woman – or man – their least favourite kitchen cleaning chore. Chances are the answer will be: “the oven.”

Riding – or actually driving – to the rescue is Ovenclean London, a mobile professional service. They hand clean ovens and barbecues, as well as stovetops, range hoods, microwaves and refrigerators.

Tilda and David King launched the business in 2014, the first North American franchise of the enterprise that’s common throughout the United Kingdom.

They service communities across the London region but have remained a hands-on two-person operation.

“That choice was influenced by our customers, who appreciate the personal care and attention to detail that is a core attribute of our service,” Tilda says.

They also value a key element of Ovenclean – the use of safe, non-caustic

Tilda and David King of Oven Clean.

cleaning solutions. Not only is this a healthier process, it’s also better for the oven. “It’s not unusual for us to see ovens corroded where caustic cleansers have not been thoroughly rinsed away,” she says.

Customer satisfaction is something the Kings take pride in.“(Our clients) provide fabulous, unsolicited testimonials that continue to make us smile,” Tilda says. This has resulted in steady growth, she says. “Repeat business and referrals are a significant percentage of our business.”

It keeps the couple busy year-round but the number of service calls takes a leap as barbecue season ramps up.

“From May to October, we could almost change our name to Barbecueclean,” Tilda says, adding that by early April this year they had 35 new barbecue clients on a call list. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION OVENCLEAN LONDON Tilda and David King 519-619-1416 • www.ovenclean.ca

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 29

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30 Lifestyle May/June 2018

Olympic gold

A DV E R T O R I A L

SHINES IN LONDON

ACURA WEST HOSTS TESSA VIRTUE AND SCOTT MOIR AT GALA EVENT TO INTRODUCE NEW MODEL

O

n July 11, the night will be extraordinary – the stars will be out, a new ‘It’ vehicle revealed, glittering guests honoured – and all for a good cause.

Canada’s figure skating golden duo Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir are being feted by hometown Acura West and Lerners LLP. In a whirlwind of media engagements and endorsements, the pair is making time to celebrate their career and their recent Olympics success and support London Health Science Centre’s Trauma Unit.

“The Trauma unit is a place none of us hopes to ever experience, personally nor with family or friends, but, when called upon, the people who run this unit do an incredible job,” said organizer and Acura West general manager Paul Jennery. “It is hard to believe how they do what they do given some of the situations they are presented with.

I have had the opportunity and pleasure to meet a number of these people who have been brought back from the precipice and rehabbed back to a normal life. Quite astonishing.”

Lerners was principal sponsor of the Trauma Association of Canada’s annual conference in February. Lerners and Pursuit Health Management sponsor an annual golf tournament for the Trauma Unit in August. The gala presented another opportunity to support the unit, which provides specialized care for adults and children and co-ordinates regional services.

“Acura West has supported this tournament as well for the last eight years, and we wanted to reach out to all involved to see if we can raise some charity money for this great institution,” said Jennery.

Acura West will also reveal its 2019 RDX. Featuring a bold new design, advanced technology and luxury features, the five-passenger SUV promises to be a hit. It is the most extensive redesign in a decade. For gearheads, look for 2.0L DOHC VTEC® Turbo engine, segment-first 10-speed automatic transmission and return of torque vectoring Super-Handling All Wheel Drive™

Intuitive new True Touchpad Interface, panoramic roof and authentic, premium materials create a versatile cabin built for drivers. The RDX has produced six consecutive years of record sales and six straight years of year-over-year sales growth.

“The new RDX is a very important model for us as it's in the most hotly contested part of the market right now,” said Jennery. SUV sales dominate the passenger market. According to carsalesbase.com in January 2018, compact SUV sales rose 5.8 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2017 and many more models were added.

“This will be a big "Thank You" celebration for our loyal customers who have supported us over the years,” said Jennery.

“This private event will be pretty festive with entertainment, local caterers showcasing their wares, craft brewers, live music etc.” n

Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue – shown here with the Acura NSX valued at $200,000 – will star with the newly unveiled 2019 Acura RDX SUV (above) at a private event at Acura West in July.

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 31

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travelstyle

Bonaire BEAUTIFUL

DISCOVER THIS CARIBBEAN PARADISE

By Kathy Mueller

T

urquoise waters, beaches, warm temperatures, loads of sunshine, and some of the best diving in the world – the tiny Caribbean island of Bonaire offers what Canadian travelers are looking for, but what it doesn’t have sets it apart.

“The appeal of Bonaire is that it is out of the hurricane zone,” said Michelle Whalen, a travel specialist with UNIGLOBE travel serving southern Ontario.

“Combined with consistently dry weather, Bonaire is a great vacation choice at any time of the year.”

With 86 dive sites, more than 57 species of soft and stony coral, and over 350 recorded fish species, Bonaire is a big draw for adventure seekers. Add kite surfing and wind surfing to the mix and it’s a perfect offering for those who “want to experience something different on an island they haven’t visited before,” said Whalen.

Not far off the northern coast of Venezuela, Bonaire has a population of less than 20,000 people, many of whom are engaged in the tourism industry. An estimated 300,000 people visit the tiny island annually – it’s less than 300 square kilometres – with approximately 50 per cent of visitors coming from cruise ships which include it on their port stops. But for Canadians, it remains a relatively unexplored gem in the trio of “ABC islands” that make up the Dutch

Sea turtle, Bonaire.

Caribbean – Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao.

Bonaire’s culture is reflected in the faces of its citizens and shows the influence of Indian, African, Asian and European inhabitants, including the Dutch and Spanish, who have all contributed to making the island what it is today. Nature conservation is high on the agenda; more than 20 per cent of Bonaire’s land and 100 per cent of its water is protected.

For visitors who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, options abound from hiking up Brandaris, the island’s highest peak, to exploring the capital of Kralendijk, to walking through huts which housed slaves who worked in the salt ponds in the 1800s, and checking out Bonaire’s national parks and caves.

“It’s a lot less touristy than other popular holiday destinations,” said Whalen.

The US dollar is used, the weather is consistent and English is widely spoken,

ABOVE Beach of the Caribbean island Klein Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean.

INSET Kralendijk center, Bonaire.

as is Dutch. While all-inclusive options are not currently being offered, there are meal plans and accommodation packages which can be purchased.

“An all-inclusive is a bit of a bubble,” added Whalen. “Having meals away from your accommodation forces people to get outside of that bubble and to soak up the varied culture that Bonaire has to offer in a safe environment.”

And because it is so close to its neighbours of Aruba and Curacao, islandhopping is easy to do.

It’s also easy to get to Bonaire. Sunwing now offers weekly flights directly from Toronto from mid-December through mid-April.

“We are extremely pleased to be able to add this unique Caribbean island to our roster and are sure that it will prove to be a popular choice amongst our customers,” said Andrew Dawson, president of Tour Operations at Sunwing.

Meaning this under-discovered beauty of an island may not remain so for that much longer. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION BONAIRE TOURISM www.tourismbonaire.com UNIGLOBE ENTERPRISE TRAVEL Michelle Whalen • 519-670-8484 www.facebook.com/michelleWhalenTravel May/June 2018

Lifestyle 33

yourstyle

Lose weight, look great

by clearing clutter A CLOSET DETOX KICK STARTS YOUR SUMMER STYLE

By Jill Ellis-Worthington

34 Lifestyle May/June 2018

W

e’re shedding winter’s weight, dark colours and heavy fabrics as we move into spring and summer. We want to up

our SQ (style quotient) while maintaining the budget.

Ridding ourselves of winter weight doesn’t mean just divesting ourselves of pounds put on since Christmas, it means losing the extra weight of the stress that having a messy, disorganized or clogged closet gives us. We need to lose the weight of the guilt we have as a result of keeping pieces that still have the tags on them because we’ve never worn them or items we’re hanging on to that are much too big or too small.

All sorts of ghosts live in our closets, but Victoria Baird encourages us to rid ourselves of all this dead weight, so our wardrobes can reflect our present realities. “What you keep is holding you back if you’re holding on to a person, place or size you once were. Letting go is very freeing because it lets you be the best version of who you are today,” says the image consultant.

In her business, Beautiful You by Victoria, she works with clients to clear their closet clutter, ensuring that they have head space and closet space to organize the remaining items into unexpected combinations and add select pieces.

Baird starts her client’s closet detox process with an assessment form. You can replicate the experience at home by asking yourself some revealing questions: What do you like most about your body?

Least? What three words describe

“

We wear 20 per cent of our clothes 80 per cent of the time out of habit.

– Victoria Baird

the style to which you aspire? Who are your fashion icons? Do you impulse shop? If yes, what are the results? What are your personal and professional goals? Do you accessorize? Are you comfortable with/good at putting outfits together or do you wear the same items in the same combinations?

Honestly answering these questions will point you in the right direction but then you need to dig in and try on each piece. Start by feeling confident with hair and makeup in place. Stand in front of a full length mirror or have a friend take photos of you. Use your cell phone to look at pictures side by side for a more objective assessment, advises Baird. 

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 35

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36 Lifestyle May/June 2018

“

CLEARING CLUTTER ~ Continued from page 35

Pairing your basics like ankle pants or capris in navy, white, beige and black – with floral tops in bright colours makes your wardrobe versatile.”

Celebrate the season with our new Spring/ Summer collections!

– Trish Wiggell, Bijou Boutique

Work in a space with good lighting to see if fabrics are faded or tattered. We often dress quickly and don’t notice.

When you’re wearing each piece or outfit, decide how it makes you feel.

Does it still fit well? Are the colours flattering? Does it reflect the three style words you chose? Does it make you feel like a person who is on the road to meeting her goals? Do you have accessories that will make it pop?

Are there other pieces that will work with it to make a new combination?

Baird says, “If you’re doubting it, get rid of it.”

Kim Ariesen, of Studio Style, echoes this. “Clear out pieces you haven’t been able to incorporate or haven’t used, whether it’s a trend piece or a staple. It’s time to move along older piece you haven’t worn; you can let go of them.”

Use three garbage bags to sort the discard pile: garbage, donate, consign.

“Once you have the bags ready to go, get them out of the house right away so you don’t second guess,” says Baird.

Now that the closet contains only pieces you love and make you feel great, write a list of items to purchase that will fill in the gaps. Will a brightly coloured pair of ankle pants breathe new life into that blazer?

Will a different belt update that black dress? Will a new necklace or earrings be just the right touch to add sparkle to a favourite blouse?

List in hand, decide on your budget.

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Lifestyle 37

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space between clothing items is a good thing.

When you’re shopping “having a list and a plan will help you avoid one-hit wonders,” says Baird. She discourages falling for sale items that can be only worn one way or for one season. “Also ask about the return policy before you purchase, so you can take it back if you get it home and it doesn’t work.” This will avoid having to pitch regret purchases in future closet detox sessions. You have the power to end the cycle.

“Pairing your basics - like ankle pants or capris in navy, white, beige and black – with floral tops in bright colours makes your wardrobe versatile,” says Trish Wiggell, of Bijou Boutique. “There are so many colours this summer and florals are really big.”

Adding “magic pieces” will update the staples in your wardrobe, according to Ariesen. Those magic pieces add interest to your outfit in the form of a deeply-hued or pastel top, a brightly coloured bead bracelet or a luxurious, long scarf in rich colours and modal fabric, “which is a new type of fabric that reflects colour beautifully,” she says.

Her three years as an image consultant and 30 years working in the beauty industry have taught Baird that looking at things with a critical eye gives a new perspective. “By mixing and matching pieces, we were able to find 26 new outfits in a client’s closet,” she gives as an example.

It’s time to detox and rock this summer as your own fashion icon. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION BEAUTIFUL YOU BY VICTORIA Victoria Baird 519-282-6319 www.beautifulyoubyvictoria.com BIJOU BOUTIQUE 1289 Commissioners Road West 519-472-0123 www.mybijouboutique.com STUDIO STYLE 215 Main Street, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca

bizlife

Fashion first For mother/daughter duo

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

W

hen mother and daughter share a passion, let the fun begin. Just ask Mary and Katelyn Froese, mom and daughter duo who opened Magari Fashions in London’s Hyde Park community last fall.

“We’ve always had a passion for fashion,” Katelyn says. “So we decided to open a clothing store.

It’s so much fun working together.”

Both women have other jobs – Katelyn is a nurse who works in Bayshore’s infusion clinics and Mary and her husband Henry have a business in Leamington, building greenhouses – but they each devote three days a week to the store and enjoy buying trips to Toronto or New York.

“This is our fun job,” Katelyn enthuses.

Magari Fashions specializes in highend women’s clothing and also carries

shoes, bags, jewelry and accessories like scarves, hats and gloves. There are items for younger and more mature women that come in a variety of price points.

“We’re trying to be inclusive and rounded in our offerings in a modern, trendy atmosphere,” Katelyn says.

She notes that they also carry brands exclusive to the store, including Ted Baker London, Robert Kitchen, Rebecca Taylor and Line. “So we definitely have different items to offer.”

And, she adds, there is new product coming through the doors constantly, “so we always have fresh things.”

Katelyn and Mary attended the recent Coterie fashion show in New York, a global event that connects retailers with a who’s who of women's apparel, accessories, and footwear designers.

“We’re going to be bringing in some spring items and new lines for

fall,” Katelyn says.

And the name? “Magari” is an Italian word, meaning “to want, to own, to desire.” While the family is not Italian, Katelyn says “we liked the sound of the word; it’s easy to say.”

And it does seem to sum up their philosophy as well as that of their clientele.

The store is proving popular with shoppers throughout the region.

“Every month is getting busier for us,” Katelyn says.

Their customers appreciate the assistance they receive from the knowledgeable and experienced staff, so they’re quickly spreading the word. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION MAGARI FASHIONS 1070 Gainsborough Road 519-471-6772 • www.magarifashions.ca

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 39

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bizlife

Giving a life lift

Dr. Marignani expands clinical space

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

W

hether it’s a tummy tuck, tweaking the shape of a chin or breast reconstruction following cancer surgery, clients receive professional and caring treatment from London plastic surgeon Dr. Marilena Marignani.

“I offer a complete menu of cosmetic and surgical solutions for skin conditions and aesthetics,” she says.

“My goal is to help people revitalize, rejuvenate, renew, look and feel their best and realize their natural potential.”

Evidence of her success can be seen in a need to expand her clinical space.

While she performs surgeries at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital, many other treatments are carried out in her office clinic. In July, this will move

from its current location on Oxford Street West to the new North London Medical Centre on Fanshawe Park Road West. There she will also be able to add new services, such as more laser procedures.

With a medical degree from Western University combined with plastic surgery training at the University of Alberta and certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, Marignani offers an allencompassing range of treatments.

“As a plastic surgeon, I do facial rejuvenation. I can provide things like Botox and fillers, but also surgical procedures like eyelid surgery, facelift or brow lift.”

A major specialty is breast surgery for a variety of reasons, like post-can-

cer reconstruction or augmentation or reduction for cosmetic reasons. Along with tummy tucks, it’s one of the most common requests she hears.

One reason for this may be her gender. When it comes to personal body areas, like breasts and abdomen, many women feel more comfortable with a female doctor, she says.

But she also puts stock in her people skills. “I really listen and try to understand what the client wants and then to be honest in making sure they understand what I can give them. When the two match, it works well.”

Marignani also offers a line of skin care products. Biophora is a brand that she chose because it combines natural ingredients with superior clinical formulations that address serious skin conditions, such as aging skin, fine lines, acne and rosacea. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION DR. MARILENA MARIGNANI 272 Oxford Street West (current) 1055 Fanshawe Park Road West (after July 1) Suite 201 • 519-438-1130 May/June 2018

Lifestyle 41

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42 Lifestyle May/June 2018

bizlife

Getting vocal about home décor Voelkel introduces European design

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

T

he first franchise for Voelkel, whose home furnishings are known throughout Europe for their creativity and innovative designs, has opened in London.

The Polish company uses Design Thinking plus extensive research of human needs to produce its unique VOX brand of multi-functional furniture that consumers can adapt to create their ideal rooms.

After 30 years in Europe and Asia, the company is bringing its product to North America, and London entrepreneurs Claire and Brad Jack are delighted to introduce it to the Canadian marketplace.

“I fell in love with the style,” Claire says. “There are so many different ways you can use the furniture and customize it to fit your space.”

Shelving units, for example, can be put together in various configurations

London entrepreneurs Claire and Brad Jack.

to suit the size and shape of the room.

Tables can be adjusted in height and incorporate storage space as well as hidden spaces for cables, allowing the piece to double as a dining table or an office or conference desk.

Voelkel offers a variety of style collections for every taste and all rooms in the home.

Claire is particularly enthusiastic about the potential for children’s bedrooms.

“You can start with a certain look when kids are younger but, with the ability to change the facades and dimensions, it can grow with them,” she says. “You just change the look as they get older.”

With this multi-functional aspect of the furniture, consumers are able to rearrange pieces and create different looks and room designs without the need to purchase new furnishings, Claire says. They can also add pieces to

build their dream room slowly, over time.

Another benefit, she says, is Voelkel’s signature online tool. VOXBOX allows customers to input room dimensions and import various pieces of furniture to customize a room before coming into the store. Alternatively they can use in-store computers and the take advantage of assistance from knowledgeable staff members.

The Jacks opened their store on Fanshawe Park Road at Hyde Park in mid-November, held a grand opening in January and say the interest from Londoners and consumers from around the region has been positive. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION VOELKEL 1422 Fanshawe Park Road West 519-473-4595 • www.voelkellondon.com May/June 2018

Lifestyle 43

all summer long FESTIVAL FUN

PORT STANLEY SHOWS OFF NEW FEATURES

F

By Jill Ellis-Worthington

our festivals will have the streets rocking as this lakeside village prepares to show off its new park, pier and tourism kiosk.

Starting on the Canada Day long weekend, Canfest kicks off the summer with its usual fun from June 30 to July 2.

With local bands performing at Glover Park (a newer space on the east side of the bridge) intermittently throughout the weekend, a daytime boat parade, a vendors market in the DOC Expo building next to the harbour, a classic car show in the Mackie’s parking lot and fireworks launched from the beach at 10 p.m., it will be a full roster of activities to celebrate Canada’s Confederation.

According to Carol Gates, owner of GT’s on the Beach and chairperson of Port Stanley BIA, “Canfest is a community-wide endeavour to promote area attractions, like the Legion, the train and

October 19 to 21, says Gates. “We theatre. We all pull it together so that want women to come with a girlfriend everyone knows what’s happening in Port for a daytrip or the weekend to get a Stanley this summer.” jump on Christmas shopping.” Details Harbourfest will run from August 10 are being finalized. to 12 this year with many of the same Updates will be given on the website, highlights, but with the boat parade www.portstanley.net and each event has being held at night, featuring illuminated its own Facebook page to get information. watercraft. To further honour the harAll events will be enhanced by the new bour itself, the fireworks will be launched tourism kiosk recently completed and from the berm opposite the new pier, so located on the west side of the harbour that viewers can enjoy the show from by the bridge at 195 Carlow Road. that vantage point.

It will be open from the Victoria Day Two new events are planned to extend weekend to Labour Day and will have summer fun. A Taste of Port Stanley will parking and public washrooms. It will be held from September 21 to 23 and will be staffed by a Tourism Elgin summer be a food truck and music festival. Gates student to help visitors to the village says that a grant from Celebrate Ontario with maps and information. n “made it possible to launch this event.”

Planning is still in the works.

A women’s shopping weekend with FOR MEN ● FOR MORE INFORMATION workshops on finances, wine and coffee www.portstanley.net tasting, yoga and music will be held from

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Lifestyle 45

bestlife

wheeling your way to good health THE BENEFITS OF BIKING

By Jill Ellis-Worthington

Trails or paths, there is a bike to maximize your experience, says Sheri Laidlaw, of To Wheels.

46 Lifestyle May/June 2018

Lee Ann and David Berlet bike three times a week nine or 10 months of the year.

The couple formerly ran together, but Lee Ann’s joint issues caused them to switch to bikes. The London couple, who are 58 and 61 years old respectively, feel the hour they spend riding is a physical and mental boost that they value.

“We go hard and do about 20 kilometres in that hour,” says David. They love London’s paths that wind along the river, covering the city from east to west and north to south. According to Andrew Macpherson, manager of Environmental

and Parks Planning for the City of London, there are 42 kilometres of pathway, most of which is off-street.

St. Thomas couple Mark Fagan, 58, and Rachel Chandler, 53, are enthusiastic road cyclists, riding to work in London two or three times a week during the good weather months. They also participate in road cycling events, such as MS Bike. They have ridden in events or on vacations in England, Italy, Michigan, Colorado and Texas, as well as much of Ontario. They clocked 5,000 kilometres on their bikes in 2017.

According to Fagan, they would like to ride to work more often but are discouraged by the danger. “Texting and distracted

St. Thomas couple Mark Fagan and

Rachel Chandler are enthusiastic road

cyclists, riding to work in London two or three

times a week during the good weather months.

driving are huge problems. Having paved shoulders on the roads would solve a lot of the problem,” he explains.

Both couples agree that along with the wellness benefits, having the shared activity is a boon to their respective relationships.

Dr. Harry Prapevessis, director of the Exercise and Health Psychology Lab at Western University, agrees with Fagan and hopes that city planners will plan for enhanced road spaces for those who want to pursue the active transportation option that a bike gives them.

“Europe has set the bar so high for what a cycling community looks like,” says Prapavessis, adding that the infrastructure there for biking is very advanced when compared to

INTO BIKES Now in its fifth year, the Big Bike Giveaway was started

by Monica and Shayne Hodgson. The London couple accepts donated bicycles, fixes them and gives them to those who need/want a bike. Since 2014, they have given away 750 bikes. This year’s event will be held on September 30 at the Boyle Community Centre.

Financial support comes from the City of London, London Police Association, Tricar Group and Two Small Men with Big Hearts Moving. They welcome more sponsors and are also in need of expertise in helping to fix bikes, as well as volunteers to help on event day.

To celebrate Big Bike Giveaway’s anniversary, they are promoting a new bike registry service in London. “We hope to improve the responsibility of bike owners, decrease the number of bike thefts and increase the number of recovered stolen bikes,” says Monica Hodgson.

To donate bikes, events are being held in and around the city: June 10 at Ingersoll Community Centre, July 8 at White Oaks Mall, on August 12 at Boyle Community Centre and on September 9 at Argyle Mall.

To claim a free bike, you must be at the September 30 event. Each person can only receive one bike and volunteers size bikes to recipients. The first lot of bicycles are reserved for those who are currently working with community agencies. The others are given away on a first come, first served basis so arriving early is advised.

that of North American cities, which are focused on automobile transportation.

Besides casual and road cyclists, there are those who love the rough terrain they experience when doing the 20-kilometre bike trail around Fanshawe Lake. Others are road racing cyclists who crave competition.

There is a different type of bike to enhance the experience no matter what style of cycling suits you. From fat bikes (those with wider tires for rough terrain) to road bikes for endurance riding to highbred bikes, which Sheri Laidlaw, owner of To Wheels, says are the most popular, there is the perfect ride for every cyclist. ● FOR MORE INFORMATION “Bikes are better now. For instance Bike Bike Giveaway • 519-200-5496 women’s bikes aren’t just smaller and donate@bigbikegiveaway • www.bigbikegiveaway.ca pink; they areDrlighter with better  Moore.pdf 10/30/11 12:52:07 PM

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Lifestyle 47

WHEELING YOUR WAY TO GOOD HEALTH ~ Continued from page 47 Because Londoners love their bikes, the City is increasing the length of the Thames Valley Parkway in late May.

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shifting and braking systems,” the lifelong biking enthusiast explains.

According to Laidlaw, it’s important to be aware of how the bike feels at contact points when being fit for a new one. Besides the position of the hands and comfort of the saddle, she says that wearing biking shorts – because they have extra padding and avoid chafing – will enhance your riding experience.

The Berlets favour the south branch of the path system – because it’s a less busy, quieter, scenic stretch – which runs from near their home downtown to the Meadow Lily area. According to Macpherson, “In Kiwanis Park, the addition of three bridges and 1.7km of pathway (2018) will link the park to the Thames Valley Parkway.”

He adds that it’s due to open at the end of May. Planning is underway to extend the western and northern legs of the path, as well.

This will give fitness seekers new areas to explore on their bikes because it’s good for mind, body and spirit. “Evidence shows that there are mental health benefits about moving your body in a nice environment while connecting with nature. You feel good that you’re outside in the sun and enjoying the vegetation,” says Prapavessis.

And it’s as “easy as riding a bike” to get back on two wheels, according to Laidlaw. “It’s a great way to get back into fitness routine. It’s not jarring or too taxing on your cardiovascular system for anyone who includes moderate activity in their lives. Just do it; it’s fun.”n

● GET ON THE PATH TO BETTER HEALTH http://www.london.ca/residents/ Roads-Transportation/Transportation-Choices/Pages/Bike-and-Walk-Map.aspx

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1

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VISUAL ART 1. See the next generation of emerging artists at the Bealart Student Showcase II. This 100-year-old program is the largest and most innovative in Canada. The members of one recent class received $650,000 in scholarships and bursaries to continue their art education. Works from the class of 2018 are exhibited June 16 to 18 at H.B. Beal Secondary School. www.bealart.com

culturelife

DANCE 2. The Harris family loved to throw a good party. Keeping that tradition alive at their home, Eldon House, is the Lemon-Yellow Party June 23. It’s back to the Roaring ‘20s with a dance to ragtime and jazz music on the lawns. Dip into the theme with yellow drinks, food and costumes, and get ready to do the Charleston. www.eldonhouse.ca

3

MUSIC

FILM

3. Gustav Mahler was a “go big or go home” kind of guy and his Symphony No. 1 requires a double orchestra.

Conductor Len Ingrao combines his London Youth Symphony and London Community Orchestra for a rare performance of this piece, nicknamed the Titan.

“The full extent of experiencing the work can only be achieved by hearing it live because Mahler plays with the physical and acoustical space,” said Ingaro. May 13, 3 p.m. Dundas Street Centre United Church. www.lco-on.ca

4. Colonel (Retired) Mark Gasparotto described his experiences in Afghanistan, serving with the Canadian Combat Engineers between 2006 and 2007 in a collection of 10 stories called Clearing the Way. Based on his book, the Old Oak Audience Choice Award-winning film shows how the 23 Field Squadron overcame obstacles, both physical and emotional, to tame the harsh terrain and construct Route Summit.

May 24, 7 p.m. at Wolf Performance Hall. www.ticketscene.ca

THEATRE 5. The adage of timing is everything is applicable in several ways to the American farce Sex Please We’re Sixty at the Arts Project. Set in a B and B, the plot revolves around repeat business, romantic liaisons and aging to create a saucy, senior scandal. Maybles’ Productions presents the play May 16 to 19 at the Arts Project. www.artsproject.ca

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Hit the highway

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for a taste of health

GRAND BEND BUSINESS OFFERS ALTERNATIVES

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

E

ating out is one of life’s pleasures.

But for people with food allergies or sensitivities, it can be a challenge.

Now a café in Grand Bend is answering this challenge with a variety of delicious, healthy choices. Highway Girl – A Finer Food Shop offers a range of menu items to suit all lifestyles and includes options for vegan, raw and gluten-free diets.

“I really want to provide an opportunity for people to eat well and have healthier options,” says owner Rebecca Towns, who launched the business last September.

For Towns, who is unable to eat wheat, dairy or sugar, understands this challenge from personal experience. She’s also a single mom of six children who have a variety of food sensitivities.

“My children and I can’t just go and eat anywhere. I’ve always made our meals from scratch and I’m incorporating that into the shop here. This is something I’ve wanted to do for many years.”

This spring she added a salad bar with homemade dips and dressings and items like nuts and vegan cheese, as well as other varieties of locally sourced cheeses.

Using local ingredients is a major focus for Towns.

“We try to make sure everything we use is local and of the highest quality.

Our grains and meats are all locally farmed. So we know where they come from and what’s in them.”

This also supports local small businesses throughout the region, including communities like Stratford, London, Ailsa Craig, Mount Brydges and Strathroy.

Supporting local entrepreneurs is also an integral focus for another element of Highway Girl. The retail boutique sells unique items from jewellry and pottery to skin care products and hand-knits, as well as foods such as gluten-free pastas, olive oils and vinegars, hot sauces and chutneys.

Highway Girl has drawn an enthusiastic welcome from the community and area cottagers.

“From the day we opened our doors, the response in the area was far more than I expected,” Towns says. “It was overwhelming, but in a really good way.”

Even in the slower winter months, she is seeing new people every day. b

● FOR MORE INFORMATION HIGHWAY GIRL • 15 Ontario Street, Grand Bend • 519-539-1741 www.facebook.com/Highway-Girl-152848021582948/

TOP Rebecca Towns in her Grand Bend store. MIDDLE Carrying locally sourced food products and gift items is important to Towns. ABOVE Town offers a range of menu items, including options for vegan, raw and gluten-free diets.

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Playhouse II Kings & Queens of Country | June 13 to June 30 Cinderella: The Panto | July 5 to July 22 Out of Order | July 25 to Aug 11 The Birds and the Bees | Aug 15 to Sept 1

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Lifestyle 51

bestlife

memory

matters

UNRAVELING THE MYSTERIES OF REMEMBERING By Jill Ellis-Worthington

Memory, how it works and how we perceive it is a mysterious thing. So much so that Bob Gray, of Memoryedge Corporation, has spent 35 years coaching others how to improve theirs. For audiences in 23 countries around the world, the in-demand keynote speaker’s most popular talks are on memory techniques.

52 Lifestyle May/June 2018

“

Distractions after a memory is made interfere with the formation of the memory or prevent consolidation – part of the encoding process – this can include not paying attention or not completely processing the information.”

People have real issues around remembering names. Gray says this is often “because we don’t hear the name when we’re introduced. We’re often too concerned with ourselves – thinking about how we will add to the conversation – to tune in to them when someone is saying his/her name,” he explains. Often a symptom of our overly busy society, memories don’t implant in our brains when we are thinking of two things or trying to do two things at once, according to Dr. Stefan Kohler, a professor of psychology at Western University and at the Brain and Mind Institute.

“Distractions after a memory is made interfere with the formation of the memory or prevent consolidation – part of the encoding process – this can include not paying attention or not completely processing the information,” he explains.

Why do some people remember certain things better than others?

Kohler says that if we can relate something we hear to something we already know it is more likely to stick.

He gives this example: “I love and am knowledgeable about baroque music, so I could remember something that relates to this.”

He adds that how we approach the world is also a factor in how we remember things. “Some people are more detail oriented, while others are oriented toward sensory features of their environment. This factors into how we remember things.” If something doesn’t mean as much to us we’re not likely to remember it.

Where memories live has been an area of research for a couple of decades, according to Kohler, with brain imaging being the primary tool. “We know that we don’t have one place in the brain

~ Dr. Stefan Kohler

BOB GRAY’S TIPS FOR REMEMBERING NAMES AT SOCIAL OR BUSINESS EVENTS Hear the name; pay full attention when it’s said.

that stores memories. They are distributed over many parts of the brain in a network structure, and not all parts of the brain play an equal role.”

Knowing that distractions can impair implanting memories, Kohler discourages multi-tasking, saying that “staying actively engaged in what you are doing is key to remembering.” Other factors that can help memory are sleep, exercise and general good health.

“Sleep plays an important role in influencing how long our memories last because it protects the information,” Kohler explains. When we sleep, a process called memory consolidation happens. He adds that rest periods or naps during the day can also aid memory consolidation.

Exercise has an effect on brain function by creating new brain cells.

“It keeps our brain tissue in a healthy state.” And a healthy brain also requires good nutrition.

While drinking water is important to overall health, Kohler rejects popular claims that drinking a lot of water is directly beneficial to the brain.

As we age, he adds that challenging one’s brain is important to preserving memory. Learning new skills – like how to play an instrument or how to play chess – reading and doing puzzles and “actively figuring out new things while enjoying new challenges and activities” all aid in keeping our brains healthy.

But some things are better forgotten.

When people are haunted by negative thoughts prompted by memories of past bad experiences and it’s hampering their lives, they often turn to practitioners such as Vonda Morrison. She uses Neural Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques to “disconnect memory from emotion. We are able to release the bad feelings around that

Spell the name in your head.

Remark on the name. If it’s an unusual name, ask the person to spell it.

Use it once or twice in the conversation.

Use the name when leaving the conversation.

When at an event in which you meet several people in succession, Gray says try thinking of something ridiculous to associate with each person. For instance, the name Lisa rhymes with pieces so imagine Lisa juggling enormous puzzle pieces to implant the name in your memory.

memory and brighten up the good times.”

One of the modalities Morrison uses aids in the release of phobias and fears.

In your mind, picture various times in your life that have produced fears or phobias, then run them like scenes in a movie forward and backward several times. At the end of each forward sequence, white them out. At the end of each backward sequence, black them out. She says that this can be effective for people who wake in the middle of the night and have trouble getting back to sleep.

To implant good feelings associated with successful or happy times, use a trigger – like lightly pressing on your knuckle – when you’re experiencing them. If you’ve thrown a lively party and are a social person, she advises locking in those good feelings by implanting a trigger. Or if you’re having a moment of success at work following a powerful presentation you’ve just delivered or the like, then implant those feelings of confidence.

Both of these triggers can be used later to re-live the good feelings when you’re at a low point and need a boost. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION: BOB GRAY • 905-430-3115 • www.memoryedge.com VONDA MORRISON • 519-474-1113 • www.awakeningstechnique.com May/June 2018

Lifestyle 53

homestyle

A HOME ON HURON VIEWS, VISITORS AND VAST SPACES

By Kathy Mueller

P

aradise: an ideal or idyllic place or state, according to the dictionary. In reality, it’s a lakefront property in Bayfield that offers million-dollar views of Lake Huron and its stunning sunsets.

“This house was originally positioned to take advantage of the 190 feet of waterfront views,” said Justin Konikow, a broker with Grogan Konikow Real Estate in London.

“When you walk through there are views of the lake from every single portion of this house. It feels like you’re outTOP Enjoy sweeping views of Lake Huron’s famous sunsets from one of several outdoor venues: a wrap-around patio, a spacious deck and a beach-level viewing platform.

54 Lifestyle May/June 2018

side on the beach while you’re cooking in the kitchen.”

Located at 77419 Bluewater Highway, this one-anda-half storey custom home, designed and constructed

by Oke Woodsmith, is tucked away on 3.25 acres.

“Getting that much acreage and lakefront at the same time is epic,” said Konikow. “You usually get one at the expense of the other.”

Built in 2006, this four-bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom house features vaulted ceilings, heated floors and an 

LEFT The house includes a two-car garage, with additional space to park several guests’ vehicles.

MIDDLE The 3.25 acre property features 190 feet of lakefront property.

RIGHT This custom-built Oke Woodsmith home was constructed in 2006.

LEFT With wrap-around windows, the large lakefront home presents views of spectacular lake vistas from each room of this luxury property, according to listing agent Justin Konikow. “It has a cottagey feel.”

BOTTOM LEFT The large, well-equipped chef’s kitchen offers views of Lake Huron sunsets as the homeowners entertain dinner guests.

MIDDLE Calling it a “creative use of space,” Konikow says the smallest bedroom, tucked under the eaves, is popular among visiting grandchildren.

RIGHT With four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms, this Bayfield home is able to accommodate visitors who are eager to experience lakeside life and cottage hospitality. 

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Lifestyle 55

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open-concept second floor perfect for entertaining and accommodating overnight guests. “There’s a very cottagey feel to the upstairs, with enough amenities for you and your guests to enjoy without feeling crowded,” said Konikow. There are three additional bedrooms, including the cedar room with its knotted pine ceiling.

A personal oasis welcomes the homeowners in the main floor master bedroom. One can imagine waking up to seemingly endless panoramic views or enjoying the walkout to an outdoor shower - perfect for hot summer mornings or for cooling off at the end of the day - under the natural awning provided by the many trees surrounding the property.

Outside, a two-car garage awaits occupancy, while a vast parking area accommodates guests. A heated workshop calls out to the handyman or woman, a wraparound patio allows enjoyment of the entire vista and a rustic boardwalk directs you to a spacious deck where, from the comfort of a Muskoka chair, you can wind down the day with one of Lake Huron’s storied sunsets.

There is 30 to 40 feet of beach at the bottom of the property suitable for the installation of volleyball nets, to soak up some sun in privacy or to just sit quietly and reflect. And the local marina is easily accessible for those who wish to spend time out on the water.

“In terms of lifestyle, most people are going to live in the house, enjoy the views, and, when craving a beach fix, they’ll hop over to one of the nearby Blue Flag beaches,” added Konikow.

Appealing to a wide audience, from young couples to retirees, this Bluewater Highway home has attracted viewers from as far away as Ottawa who are looking for a higher quality of life in a thriving community at a fraction of the cost of what a similar property would be even in nearby Grand Bend, said Konikow.

“With so much acreage and a large canopy of trees, this property really is your own little estate on the lake.” n

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homestyle Hiring a RenoMark renovator assures homeowners that they will be treated professionally by the contractor they choose.

Shown here, before and after photographs of a CCR Construction project.

REALLY GREAT RENOVATIONS START WITH TRANSPARENCY

By Jill Ellis-Worthington

E

veryone loves to save a buck and there are myriad ways to do so: stop buying coffee at the drive-thru and make it at home; clip coupons for the grocery store; buy in bulk. But these are ways to save a bit here and there. The temptation to save money on a major expense like a renovation is much greater.

Going with a fly-by-night contractor to work on your house may seem like a way to save money, but it can cost you more, much more. No one knows that better than Lydia Neeb and her family.

The Old South homeowner is now working with Brian Schon of Alair Homes to finish a renovation started three years ago. After working with two previous contractors – who were casual, non-RenoMark contractors – she knows the pain and expense incurred from making the wrong choice.

58 Lifestyle May/June 2018

Peder Madsen, of CCR Construction, is the president of the London Home Builders' Association, as well as previous chairperson that organization’s Renovator's Council.

“Some people think they can save money by going with a smaller, newer company,” he says, adding that may be true for contractors who are starting out but who “want to get all their certifications. Those who want to better the industry and themselves as a whole.”

As members of the Renovator's Council, contractors must sign an agreement to become a RenoMark renovator promising to abide by the LHBA code of ethics, provide written contracts, offer a two-year warranty, carry liability insurance and have Workplace Safety and Insurance Board coverage, carry all licenses and permits, maintain professional knowledge, maintain a safe worksite and return phone calls within two days.

BEFORE

According to Paul Guenette, of CertaPro Painters and the current chair of the Renovator’s Council, you could be paying two or three times for the same renovation – like Neeb – or even more if the contractor you choose doesn’t have WSIB or liability insurance. “Without WSIB, if someone falls off a ladder you are liable for medical expenses. If someone is painting your house and a gust of wind comes along and the spray covers your neighbour’s cars, it’s your liability if the contractor doesn’t have insurance.”

In Neeb’s case, she had witnessed her mother pilot several successful renovations of older properties and thought the time was ripe for her to follow suit on the century-old property that serves as the home for her family of four.

The first contractor she worked with was one her mother had used so she felt that he would do a good job. It turns out people change. “He kept asking for 

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May/June 2018

Lifestyle 59

REALLY GREAT RENOVATIONS ~ Continued from page 58

ABOVE Successful renovation by RenoMark renovator Alair Homes.

deposits for subtrades – framers, electricians, plumbers, deck builders – but no work was ever done and he kept cashing the cheques,” she explains.

She pulled the plug when she was out over $18,000 and started court proceedings to get her money back to no avail. Then a family friend and neighbour wanted the job. “He’s my husband’s friend and our kids go to the same school and play together, so we got an estimate.”

At the same time she got several quotes from reputable RenoMark Renovators but decided that loyalty was the way to go after being pressured by her husband, though she had doubts about mixing work and friendship.

After months of watching slipshod crews demo her home, working slowly and displaying many forms of unsafe worksite behaviours, she again pulled the plug but was out $168,000 this time with no receipts to show for it.

Very dispirited but determined to finally “move back into our home and get back to normal life,” Neeb began working with Alair Homes, a member of the Renovators' Council and a RenoMark Renovator.

The difference: she has a contract (neither previous renovator offered one) and regular reports about work done and costs incurred. “With Alair, everything was transparent; Brian (Schon) was very upfront about everything.”

Though it has cost her dearly – in mental and physical anguish as well as money – Neeb is now very pleased to be nearing the end of her long renovation journey. She has some rental properties that also need renovation work.

“I’ll definitely use a RenoMark renovator,” she says. n ● FOR MORE INFORMATION LONDON HOME BUILDERS' RENOVATOR'S COUNCIL www.lhba.on.ca/en/renovating/ what-is-reno-mark 60 Lifestyle May/June 2018

bizlife

Luxury, versatility and safety

LEFT TO RIGHT Brenda Kearney, Gary McKay, Paul Zubot.

Keys to Brouwer Plumbing’s offerings for five decades

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

W

hen it comes to London family businesses, Brouwer Plumbing and Heating is one that has definitely stood the test of time.

In 2017, the company celebrated its 50th anniversary serving the residents of southwestern Ontario.

Founded in 1967 by Hank Brouwer, later joined by his brother Dick, Brouwer Plumbing has built its success on integrity and quality customer service, says Paul Zubok, Dick’s son-in-law, who has headed the business for 20-plus years.

“The choices in product have expanded and that can be overwhelming for people,” Zubok says. “There’s more competition out there but people don’t feel that they’re being looked after. As a small business, we offer that.”

Consultant Brenda Kearney agrees, saying: “People have a need, and we drill

down to discover what they’re looking for to find something that suits their budget and lifestyle, with no pressure, just knowledge and honesty.”

Brouwer has been at its location on Central Avenue at Ontario Street since its inception. In 2010, it underwent a rebuild and opened a new 3,000-squarefoot showroom. They wanted to attract more retail customers and DIYers, in addition to contractors and builders.

Customers love the wealth of displays in the current showroom - from kitchen faucets with touch control to the steam shower and working shower display with traditional control valves, digital control valves, body sprays and water tiles. The showroom also displays a selection of luxurious free-standing tubs.

“We try to bring in the best quality products,” Zubok says.

In addition to carrying product from

more than three dozen manufacturers, Brouwer is the exclusive dealer in southwestern Ontario for American Standard’s DXV line. Launched to celebrate more than 140 years of its brand, the line features a portfolio of luxury bath and kitchen products that pay tribute to distinct eras from the late 19th century to modern, contemporary design. “It’s a timeless look,” Zubok says.

In today’s society, there’s also a focus on an aging demographic, says showroom manager Gary McKay. “Safety is important, and we assist people as they age with products such as walk-in tubs and grab bars,” he says. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION BROUWER PLUMBING AND HEATING 833 Central Avenue 519-672-1631 • www.brouwerplumbing.com

May/June 2018

Lifestyle 61

bizlife

Premier Porsche

Local dealership takes top award

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste General manager Steve Rempel.

L

ondon’s Porsche dealership has been named Premier Dealer 2018 by its parent company.

“It’s a pretty big deal,” says general manager Steve Rempel. “Porsche Canada recognizes just three premier dealers across the country each year.”

This is the first such award for the London store, which opened its doors in 2010.

Rempel explains that the award is based on an extremely detailed scoring system, ranking accomplishments in parts and service, sales, digital marketing and customer service and customer satisfaction.

“Absolutely every aspect of the business is graded throughout the year,” he says. “It gets quite competitive.”

Porsche issues a score card each quarter. At the end of last year’s first quarter, the London store was in the lead.

62 Lifestyle May/June 2018

“At that moment, I said if we really focus we can maintain this and we can win it. And we did,” Rempel says.

He attributes the success to the expertise and professionalism of the London staff.

“It’s the customer service and the knowledge that our team has. They know so much about the brand.”

He says everyone is committed to making sure customers have the information they need and their questions answered in a timely manner.

“We pride ourselves on the ease of doing business with us. It’s a great team and a great brand.”

Rempel came onboard as general manager in 2016, moving from a BMW dealership in Waterloo, and has been impressed with his co-workers and customers, as well as the brand.

“This is something I’ve always want-

ed to do. The Porsche brand is one of the best in the world as far as automotive goes, a very exciting brand.”

The customers are equally enthusiastic and passionate about their cars, he says.

And the dealership rewards their loyalty with some annual special events.

Summer track days at a racetrack in Grand Bend allow owners to get up to speed and appreciate the full potential of their cars.

In June, Porsche of London hosts a fun run, taking drivers on a designated 120-kilometre road trip, a day out to enjoy the cars and the Ontario countryside and get to know fellow owners. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION PORSCHE OF LONDON 600 Oxford Street West 519-601-1322 • www.porschelondon.com

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