HH&F Magazine

Wi Wint nte er r 2012

HA LT ON

...but the parade is outside!

yep...

Winter Fashion - Holiday Decor SAD in Winter Real Estate - Cars >>

TURN the page

PLZ!!

FREE ISSUE

NOTLAH

2 1 0 2 r e t n iW

!retteB

!xnaht

EERF EUSSI

page 2 winter 2012

...pey

roceD yadiloH - noihsaF retniW retniW ni DAS >> sraC - etatsE laeR

SMOOTH SOLUTIONS IS WISHING YOU

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For that special someone who truly deserves a

ME

moment GIFT CERTIFICATES

Laser Treatments Electrolysis Waxing Manicures Pedicures Tinting Facials Body Treatments Massage

519.853.4SPA (4772) smoothsolutions.ca winter 2012 page 3

I

6 14 Holiday decor themes. . . . . . . . . .16 Real Estate: Moving to the country. . . . . . . 20 Corporate restructuring. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 inside: Honda Accord 2013 . . . . . . . . . . .26 Cars: European motoring. . . . . . . . . . . . .30 BAO Lifestyle in action . . . . . . . .38 Shopping local or online for glasses?. . . . 42 SAD and ways back to smile. . . . . . . . . . .

44 WINTER FASHION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Eyelash secrets revealed. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A

ED ND N D !

E T EX E E K E LL W

EVENING SPECIAL:

BUY ANY 3 BIG SUBS GET 1 BIG SUB FREE

5 PM TO 10 PM WEEK DAYS

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212 Guelph St. Georgetown page 4 winter 2012

Winter Wi n ter 201 2 01 2

HALTON

HEALTH

HOME

&

FAMILY F

H A LT ON Win te r

20 12

parade ...but thetside! is ou

yep...

ge TURN the pa

PLZ!!

Decor ion - Holiday Winter Fash ter SAD in Win - Cars >> te Real Esta

FREUEE ISS

Photography: Allison Clark Photography “Talking snow men” supplied by: Dini & Co Cover concept: Sei Wynn Media

Amore Mia BISTRO 395 Main St. East, Milton reservations: 905-875-3305 amore.mia.bistro@gmail.com www.AmoreMiaBistro.ca

Materials and professional suggestions contained in this magazine are provided by the Associate Editors and represent only their opinions.

Readers are advised to consult with their own health-care provider BEFORE attempting any of the health treatments described in this issue.

Caution and DUE DILIGENCE is advised for all ¿nancial matters presented to readers.

Reproduction of editorial content, graphic materials, advertisements in whole or in part, is expressly prohibited.

Illustrations and photographs courtesy of: Associate Editors, Allison Clark Photography, Shutterstock. com and Sei Wynn Media.

Produced by: Sei Wynn Media Trading Co. Comments: sei_wynn@hotmail.com Advertising:

416.206.0161 winter 2012 page 5

W

winter...warm up to it!

As the chill in the winter air takes hold, we look forward to the cozy warmth of winter fashions and the sparkle of holiday attire.

This season choose from some of the most beautiful coats, cardigans and sweaters to keep you fashionable and well wrapped for winter.

Warmth can be beautiful too!

page 6 winter 2012

Look for glitzy sweaters, sparkly tops and shiny pants to take you through the holidays. Sequins, lurex, brocade patterns and various textured fabrics are adding an interesting touch to holiday fashions.

COATS Don’t be left out in the cold when the temperature drops.

Cover up with the coolest coats of winter 2012! It is often said that your winter coat is the most important investment of the season; your choice of winter coat speaks volumes about your style and personality. With all the hours you’ll log wearing it, invest in a coat that offers bang for your fashion buck. Depending on your lifestyle you may want several! This season, look for classic styles, fur jackets, bold and military style coats, cool capes and fur trimmed down ¿lled parkas.

FASHION Dressy For evening, you can’t dress to the nines and then throw on a parka. Elevate your evening coat to match your best after dark out¿ts. For a dressier look try a sleek and ¿tted style that makes you look long and lean. Look for luxe details in the form of embroidery, leather and fur as well as unique touches like baroque embellishment that can funk up a classic coat. Leather is always an edgy option and a natural match for any bold style inclinations. Faux fur is once again on the top trends list; in black or gray it’s a glam accent that goes with everything. A cropped faux fur jacket looks great with everything from jeans to a party

Classic A great classic for everyday and especially for work is a tailored double or single breasted reefer style in a solid colour or luxurious texture. It’s a timeless go-to that works anytime.

Look for sharp tailoring and re¿ned fabrics like wool or tweed that mean business. This is the coat you’ll wear the most often so its worth investing in one you love. The most popular length of women’s classic coats is to the middle of the knee. Feminine and chic is in. If you like to stay on trend, stand out from the crowd in a colour of the season like beautiful deep burgundy or cobalt blue.

It is guaranteed to get you noticed.

Optical prints and patterns are bang on trend and will lift even the plainest of out¿ts. Also military styling with epaulettes and brass button detailing is back as a key trend for winter.

DownFilled Sometimes you just want to be comfortable, and nothing is better than a down jacket. When the mercury really plunges, serious insulating is a must. For a relaxed weekend look, go for a comfy, down-¿lled coat with a fur trimmed hood. Moxxi has some beautiful Rudsak coats that are both stylish and warm. With tons of pockets and a removable fur collar these coats are incredibly functional. No need to worry about looking bulky these days.

With details like a cinched waist and vertically seaming as well as zippered pockets and other fun details, these coats are surprisingly sexy.

J

E W E L L E RY

E

M P O R I U M

905.873.4405 310 Guelph St.

Unit5, Georgetown

fall2012 2012 page page 7 winter

CHUNKY KNITS Ranging from sweater dresses to knitted capes, this season’s collections feature styles perfect for casual layering.

Knits are always a fall must have but this time around, edgier versions of the classic pullover are fun and interesting. This season, graphic print sweaters are an essential and add a fantastic focal point to an out¿t. Animal motifs, paisley, Àoral patterns and ikat on tops and sweaters are playful and add a whimsical feel. And… when it comes to colour combos, the quirkier the better. Wear with jeans or pair with a pencil skirt for surprising polish. It’s a look that will make a statement but is still practical.

Cocoon yourself in an oversized sweater for premium warmth and style. Its comfy, casual and cozy.

The relaxed ¿t will work perfectly with the season’s sleek skinny jeans or leggings and a pair of ankle boots or pumps. Or, dress up a slouchy knit by pairing it with a basic pleated skirt to lighten up. A Àouncy skirt, heeled booties, a little clutch and scarf bring polish to the relaxed sweater. Oversized sweaters not only keep

dress. If you don’t have a fur coat and don’t want to invest in one, simply add a fur collar, shrug or scarf over your jacket or coat and you’ll instantly look more stylish. Rock it on vests, jackets or accessories to add instant luxe to any look.

Bold and graphic prints on coats are also very trendy right now especially in black and white combinations. For example, hounds-tooth is a pattern we are seeing on numerous styles.

It makes anything and everything look extra interesting.

And of course, animal prints are fun and chic at the same time. You can’t go wrong with leopard for an evening look.

Weekend Casual For a casual and cozy look, try a blanket coat in a large striped pattern. This coat is the clothing equivalent of a throw. Pair with solid chunky knits and comfy leather pants.

Capes The cape is all the rage this season. For not so cold days or if you are just dashing about, the style is versatile and fresh.

For evening, a cape adds a touch of elegance and ups the glamour of prints and sparkling extras. Sweater coats are another great option for milder days and can take the place of a car coat. page 2012 page8 8 fall winter 2012

you cozy, they can be worn as substitutes for coats.

Pay careful attention to ¿t with this type of sweater: oversized does not mean gigantic or sloppy. Be focused on your best features when combining elements for an out¿t.

Make a statement: wear the new hi/lo versions layered with a tee underneath. Watch the proportion; make sure the front of the top is not too short in relation to your torso or you will look like you are all legs. At the back make sure the top is not too long in comparison to your height. Keep in mind the style of pants you are wearing. For example an oversized crop sweater is the ultimate addition to complement higher waisted pants.

Layering is a winter fashion must do– this season’s return to major texture has us all craving knits and jackets with a bit more edge. Be sure to play with a mix of jackets, vests and sweaters to add interest to your look. Choose pieces that show off your ¿gure and don’t add bulk. Flatter your ¿gure by making your ¿rst layer tightest and darkest in order to de¿ne your shape. Then add Àowier, lighter coloured or busier pieces on top. Combine textures by wearing contrasting fabrics. Try knits with silk and leather. It’s all about mixing it up. Be sure to add a nubby cardigan to your wardrobe as an effortless layering piece you’ll wear constantly. For fuss free cozy, comfy, chic, you can’t beat the ease and adaptability of such classic pieces.

Pair with smooth leather for an intriguing mix of textures and your’ve got an out¿t that lives forever. A long sweater vest can be layered over almost anything. So get creative.

Layering a sweater over a silky, Àowy dress will not only make you warm but also look effortlessly chic.

Consider proportion if you’re top heavy. Create a balanced look with layers that emphasize your hips.

If you’re pear shaped layer up more on top.

Sweater Dresses Sweater dresses come in an endless variety of styles, colours and ¿ts and easily go from a relaxing weekend getaway to a day in the of¿ce and then out for dinner. Sweater dresses also give us opportunities to accessorize with beautiful bright and rich details. Wear a fun pattern or textured sweater dress with a scarf, bright tights and knee high boots for comfy weekend look, or build a single hued look from a gray or

FASHION black sweater dress, belt, tights and pumps for a business environment. Remember that professional wear does not have to be boring. If you choose to build a single hued out¿t, use one element for a pop of colour or interesting pattern or a textured element. For example a soft knit scarf and a leather bag in rich burgundy are trendy accessories and beautiful accents to a charcoal gray ensemble.

BOOTS From updated classics to embellished statement makers, there’s a pair to suit every style. The winter season is all about dark shades and luxurious rich materials with glamorous features. Colours such as black, browns, greys, are classic trends that return year after year but colours like reds and deep purples are a fresh update. You will ¿nd lots of suede, snakeskin, and textured styles. Winter 2012 trends include ankl ankle booties, biker styles, equestrian boots, lace up eque styles, wedges as well as st sstyles with fur trim and sequin details.

This winter the king of boots is the ankle bootie.

There is no doubt that the ankle boot is one of the major winter 2012 fashion trends whether sporty and ccasual or feminine aand dressy. They are a great addition to a woman’s wardrobe wo because they look bec classy and trendy at class the ssame time. Hitting generally just at or genera slightly above the ankle the bootie hhas become a style mainstay; so whether you’re comfortable in high stilettos or prefer something Àat, this season’s booties will offer something for everyone.

No matter what type of clothing you have in your wardrobe, booties are Àexible and can be easily worn with a variety of out¿ts. Originally worn with trouser style pants, the bootie is now a fashion statement that looks great with all skirt lengths and cropped pants. winter 2012 page 9

Tall dress boots are great with skirts and tights during winter and it’s up to your own personal sense of style to determine just how high you like your boots to be whether that’s just below the knee or just over it. Its all about what you feel most comfortable wearing. Thicker heels reminiscent of the 70’s and platforms are the norm for dress boots. Also look for details like back zippers, cap toes and two tone colours.

Lace up styles with fur like those by Michael Kors are practical and sexy. With a stacked heel and rubber sole they provide stability and look chic at the same time.

Western styles and Chelsea boots are cool and casual with a hint of rock chic. With chunky low heels these boots look great with skinny jeans as well as casual skirts and dresses.

H O L I D AY WEAR

Coloured booties are fantastic in jewel tones. Give black a break and make your go-to boots a great burgundy colour, the seasons hot new neutral pair.

It coordinates well with black, grey, navy, brown as well as this season’s popular colours like hunter green, royal blue and plum.

Combined colour boots are very trendy this winter, especially the two toned riding boot in black and camel. Check out the Bandolino style at Moxxi. Knee high equestrian inspired boots continue to make a strong style statement. Wear them with your favourite jeans and leggings. page 10 winter 2012

This his is the time off year to bring out ut the bling!

Show how a little skin in n shimmery tops and skirts; glam m up with jewelry, luxe clutches and dressy heels.

Embellishment is everywhere!

For formal events, vents, dresses are usually the attiree of choice. Black is a tried and true rue reliable fallback, but this season, n, why not go for some sparkle? Sequin dresses are once again popular; ular; this season try a metallic colour like ike silver or gold. A sequin dress and strappy stilettos are playful and eye-catching. catching.

Feminine and vintage intage style dresses with lace and brocade details in jewel tones are also popular..

This year, the waist is having a major moment in dress designs with peplums being the trendy new feature. Although not for everyone, the peplum does help de¿ne a waist and create an hourglass shape.

Also, the ever popular shift dress continues to hang tight in popularity. It’s an easy dress to throw on and go. With inÀuences from stretch textiles and ¿gure Àattering jersey, dresses ¿t with body hugging simplicity. Printed dresses look especially good in this style. In graphic patterns or bright colours this silhouette is both stylish and easy to wear. For maximum Àattery choose above the knee styles and pair with strappy heels.

Colour blocking with strategically placed panels on dresses can be very Àattering. The contrast panel in dark shades downplay the appearance of the body

Happy NewYear!

TRENDZ A

cton 519-853-5300

HAIR STUDIO

G

eorgetown 519-877-9229

style and gifts

for men

J.V. CLOTHING 280 Guelph St. Georgetown

905.877.1598

jvclothing.com

winter 2012 page 11

styles. It’s all about looking chic, not overdone. Here are some easy pieces to help you put together an easy but stylish new look….

Pants Statement pants are so hot this season!

They should play a big part in your wardrobe by now. Think wild patterns, Àashy colours, bold embellishments and decadent textures. Coloured and printed pants have become a staple in any stylish girls wardrobe.

If you don’t already have some, a must have for this season is a pair of burgundy skinnies. Dressed up or down, they’ll give your out¿t a cool pop. For some glam, create a notice me mix of colour and texture with a pair of burgundy skinnies, a sparkly top plus a metallic clutch and pumps in luxe snake print.

If you are more conservative, get a pair of black jeans in a skinny cut as they can go with everything. There’s nothing cooler this season than versatile go-to denim. Try the Fidelity Ace; you’ll love the sucked in feel you get from these jeans. A hem that falls at or just below the ankle is both leg lengthening and versatile. Wear them well – for the of¿ce pair with a blazer and pumps for weekends, slouchy tops and booties.

part they cover while the lighter shade emphasizes your assets. Narrower hips and tummy Àattening are instant results.

Black vertical panels down the sides of the body are slenderizing. Also, all over prints distract. So not only is a busy background of the moment, it also camouÀages lumps and bumps.

Sure a little black dress is always on par for the party scene, but who says holiday dressing has to be so cut and dry. Switch it up this season – get glammed up and a whole lot more interesting with some new holiday page 12 winter 2012

For a night out, a silky tank and sexy stilettos. If you want to make a statement, opt for a pair with a subtle animal print and top off the look with a luxe sweater in a bold colour. Since the out¿t is bold, add simple nude heels and a statement necklace. With new textures like velvet brocade and designs like lace print, the options are endless!

If you are entertaining at home you may want a more casual chic look. Since chunky knits are all the rage, look for one with a little subtle sparkle in the form of lurex or a few sequins. Dress up the knits with silk pants to balance the texture and weight of the fabric.

Tuxedo-style blazer If you don’t already own one, a tuxedo style blazer will take you many places.

The tuxedo style blazer is the perfect way to infuse chic into any out¿t. Pair with this season’s cropped black trouser – forever a staple in your wardrobe; it lengthens your leg and shows off your sleek pumps or ankle boots . If you’re looking for something more funky, try some of this the season’s dramatic opulence of luxe metallic shine and rich brocades. This ornate fabric is perfect for dressing up but on more casual

FASHION

pieces or paired with jeans and Àats, its chic and unexpected.

Choose one piece, either a pant or jacket in a brocade fabric and pair it with an edgy piece such as a sheer shirt or tee.

Try a textured pair of Fidelity brocade jeans in black velvet for the holidays. A tuxedo jacket, sparkly top and brocade pants are bold yet elegant.

Blouses The sheer silky blouse is essential this season and so right for work and beyond. Think Àowy, feminine and sexy- not crisp and proper. Something to keep in mind: get loose – the fabric shouldn’t pull especially at the bust; opt for the next largest size when in doubt. With this season’s decadent metallic fabrics, fashion is going for the gold on everything including opulent gowns and jewels . Try a gold hi/lo blouse

by Javier Simora at Moxxi boutique.Temper the top’s look with dark denim and burgundy accessories. Depending on the style, you can tuck your loose top into sleek bottoms such as skinny jeans or if it’s the latest hi/lo style, wear it over your pants. Try a multi-strand necklace under the collar to dress it up.

JS Boutique dress Kenneth Cole Nine West Anne Klein Mexx Sandwich Part Two and many more

This season all that glitters is in and that goes for clothing as well as accessories. So indulge in the opulence and enjoy the fashion this great season has to offer!

B O U T I Q U E Joanne Smith Moxxi Boutique

70 Main St. South Downtown Georgetown 905.877.0111

hair and spa treatments ... updos ... colour ... perms ... manicure ... pedicure ... facials ... makeup ... waxing ... threading

Halton Hills Shopping Centre

369 Mountainview Rd. South, Georgetown South

905.873.2296 winter 2012 page 13

E

eyelash secrets revealed

The good, the bad and Many women are unhappy with the FABULOUS! their short, pale, thin and hard-

to-see lashes. With professional eye lash extensions, they can have lush, thick lashes that create that dramatic look all women crave; lashes that eliminate the need for mascara or even eyeliner. No matter what type of lash extensions you choose, the intent is to make your eyes look bigger and more interesting, drawing attention upwards and away from dark circles, wrinkles or puɤness under the eyes.

We all have seen celebrities like Paris Hilton, Madonna and the unforgettable Marilyn Monroe flaunting their lash extensions for years.

They would not be caught on camera without them!

Why?... Three of the most common types of

lash extensions on the market today are: Semi-Permanent Eyelash Extensions, Flares & Clusters and, the old fashioned Strip Lashes, otherwise known as False Lashes.

They all create a diɣerent look and choosing the one that suits you best can be confusing, but really it depends on the purpose, your style, time and of course, budget.

SEMI-PERMANENT EYELASH EXTENSIONS One of the newer trends to reach the public from the fashion runways and Hollywood elite is SemiPermanent Eyelash Extensions.

The Good No need for mascara anymore! This type of lash extension is safe and

page 14 winter 2012

BEFORE

AFTER will not cause damage to your own natural lashes nor to your eyelids, if done by a well-trained expert.

Semi-Permanent Eyelash Extensions have a natural look and simply feel like they are your own lashes.

Best of all, they are long-wearing, water-resistant, and comfortable as they are virtually weightless!

The application procedure is painfree and relaxing…performed as you lay down (most people fall asleep).

One by one, a single synthetic silk, or mink lash is adhered to each one of your own individual natural lashes adding length, thickness and colour to the lashes you already have.

Depending on which lash package you choose, with proper application and after-care, SemiPermanent Eyelash Extensions will last inde¿nitely! This type of lash requires maintenance visits or ¿lls every 2, 3 or 4 weeks, and is determined by each individual’s lash growth cycle as well as time and budget.

The Bad Semi-Permanent Eyelash Extensions, if not applied correctly, can cause damage to the natural eyelashes. In order for natural lashes to remain healthy, each (natural) lash needs the freedom to shed and drop oɣ independently of its neighboring lash. This helps to avoid excess weight and visual clutter on the lash line. As these types of lash extensions must be applied one by one, they are more time consuming than other types of lash extension applications and also more costly.

STRIP LASHES Strip Lashes, otherwise known as False Lashes or Falsies, have been around since 1916. Falsies have been worn by many leading ladies and celebrities, some of whom wore them well and others, unfortunately, not so well (i.e. Tammy Faye Baker!). Strip eyelashes can be fun and Àirty but can also be a recipe for disaster if you aren’t sure of what you are doing!

The Good Strip Lashes are inexpensive, quick and easily applied by some, and can be found at local drug stores.

The strips, can be cut to size and come with glue. Strip Lashes are safe and a great way to instantly glam up your eyes for a night out on the town!

The Bad Strip Lashes can be itchy, heavy and uncomfortable. More so, most fear the lash strip coming undone

as the inside and outside corners never seem to adhere to the lid margin properly! Not being waterresistant, is a de¿nite downfall, therefore, no crying, [no laughing too hard either!], no swimming, and no steam…as you can see, their use is extremely limited. Since Strip Lashes are basically one-nighters only, they are to be removed at bedtime and thrown away. Some of the more expensive Strip Lashes such as Authentic Mink can be washed after each use and worn many times thereafter.

FLARES & CLUSTER LASHES Flares & Cluster Lashes mean the same thing. Each is a group of 3 or more synthetic ¿bers tied together with or without a knot at the bottom to form a lash grouping.

The Good Flares & Clusters are faster to apply than the new Semi-Permanent Eyelash Extensions and less expensive. It is important to note that Flares & Clusters are meant for “occasional” or “long weekend wear” only! They can be safe on your lashes if they are applied neatly and properly to your lash line.

The Bad If worn for more than a few days, Flares & Clusters can cause premature fallout of the existing natural lashes.

Adhering a Flare/Cluster to a group of natural lashes prevents each natural lash from shedding independently from the group, creating excess weight on the natural lashes. Each natural lash is at a diɣerent growth cycle than its neighbor, adhering a Flare/Cluster to a group of natural lashes creates a pulling

BEAUTY and tugging eɣect on the dormant lashes, causing them to fall out prematurely. Flares & Clusters are only meant for short term wear and are not water-resistant.

Since the adhesive bond and knots used in this process can often be seen at the base of the lash line, the end result is not as seamless or natural looking as Semi-Permanent Eyelash Extensions.

Whatever your reason for wearing lash extensions, they are a useful fashion accessory, making your eyes look FABULOUS! However, they must be worn the right way.

If applied incorrectly, they can be esthetically unappealing, drawing attention to the eyes for all the wrong reasons!.

Marcie Rushlow Certi¿ed Lash Extension & Micro-Pigmentation Specialist

Geo wn - Milton - O Oakville lle - London Georgetown

Helping women look beautiful far beyond just one day...

winter 2012 page 15

H

holiday themes

Can’t decide on a holiday theme this year?

Keep your family tree and place other smaller trees around your home which allows you to decorate on a smaller scale with new and exciting themes.

Here are some tips...

I have to admit, there is a diva in me who goes crazy for sparkle, dazzle,

glitz and glam,

but how can you resist

Woodland

theme our Canadian heritage and not embrace the that is throughout our vast land? Perfectly crafted ornaments made by hand from my son Mitchell from his younger years and many memorable craft nights spent with my sisters and Mom sets the scene for a proud holiday home for the

Traditional theme. Last but not

least, my favorite theme this year is the

whimsical

vignette we showcase as soon as you walk into the store with Àocked pink and green trees, cupcakes and girly things!

page 16 winter 2012

glitz and glam

DECOR

Small white lights are perfect for a glamour tree and a good starting point for your glitzy holiday tree.

Collect the materials you’ll need, strings of pearls and feather boas are a good choice. Don’t forget broken jewelry, old mascara wands and lipstick tubes, and some silk ribbon to tie everything on.

Vintage baubles from Àea markets and rummage sales are perfect sources for sparkling accessories. Infuse a bit of Hollywood glamour with crystal chandelier ornaments and dazzling icicles that will pull your glamorous Hollywood style together.

Have a small space? Use two mini trees about 4’ in different colours, say white and silver, and elevate one by placing on a small table to create some drama. Don’t forget the rhinestone tiara for the top of the tree!

Tip: Add some more sparkle to your wreaths,

centerpieces and mantel displays (when an extension cord is not going to work) with battery operated LED lights!

Silver balls, beads and baubles, snowballs and even lighted ribbon are available with built in timers for 6 hours on and 18 hours off!

Woodland The woodland collection features warm soft tones and textured surfaces with icons, such as owls, hedgehogs and moose made with nature inspired ¿nishes of birch bark and twigs. Woolly felts and perfect plaids are seen throughout this theme and adorn these creatures that ¿nd their place amongst nature. With all these textures, layering them gives added depth to your décor and evokes a warm feeling that just makes you feel like grabbing that hand knitted throw and sitting next to a cosy ¿re on a blustery day.

Tip: Candles create a

feeling of warmth and are a major accessory to this theme. Replacing wax candles with the popular Reallite battery operated

home decor events fashion gifts

REALTORS, STAGERS & INTERIOR DESIGNERS welcome!

289-891-9135 w w w.diniandco.com 56 Main St. South, Georgetown winter 2012 page 17

types in all colours. One step fancier? you may use programmable candles that you can set for how long you would like them to stay on and remote control candles that are perfect for that rustic chandelier that is hanging over your reclaimed wood dining table!

Traditional Once again as in the olden days ... the traditional tree in parlor, along with greens and red balls on the mantel, make it an inviting place to gather family and friends.

The holiday ¿nds our homes dressed in full glory: candles lit, silver polished, your favorite centerpiece pulled from the boxes and linens pressed to crisp perfection.

And what about those glittery rare baubles that no one else could ¿nd... It gives us the rare relaxed moment to focus on the blessings we’ve received in the past year and to welcome family and friends for the sheer pleasure of their company.

Tip:

As easy as 1-2-3, holiday greens are the base for this seasonal décor and can be achieved with our collection of life-like faux greenery of wreaths, garlands and teardrops from long needle pine, cedar, eucalyptus and some even adorned with real pine cones! page 18 winter 2012

photos courtesy of : Allison Clark Photography

DECOR Polka dots, stripes and swirls contribute to the style. Look for ornaments with these shapes on them in a variety of colors.

If you’re big on tradition but would love to bring some whimsy into your holiday décor, try decorating a second tree in your child’s room or as we did in Jane’s kitchen in the Georgetown’s United Way House Tour, which looked absolutely scrumptious!

Tip: Add another dimension to

your whimsical tree by using mesh (sometimes referred to as sinamay) which is a large Àexible decor ribbon which comes in a variety of colours and widths that can transform your tree from fun to fabulous in minutes...

I have put many more ideas on display and if you’re curious, then come on in for a look and a chat.

whimsical

Warm wishes to all my friends and guests of Dini & Co – there’s no place like home for the holidays. vignette

So what exactly does ‘whimsical’ mean?

Whimsical is derived from the word ‘whimsy’, which essentially means, playful or fanciful. Whimsical conjures up colorful, animated images that are creative and nontraditional.

Shapes also play a big role when using a whimsical decorating style.

In closing, I would like to thank all the “elves” (Alicia, Louise and Barb) for contribuƟng their Ɵme and eīort to transform the store into the amazing winter wonderland it has become.

Also, a special “Thank You” to Allison from Allison Clark Photography who created images that inspired all of us to dream of this magical Ɵme.

Dini Lamers Dini & Co. 289-891-9135 winter 2012 page 19

M

moving to the country

Recent years have seen a growing awareness in the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Many people now feel that a rural environment has the potential to provide a higher quality of life for their families.

In addition to the low crime rates and For many, being freed of these tradiincreased safety aspect, there is also the tional time restrictions has allowed perception that a non-urban environ- them to contemplate purchasing real ment fosters a strong sense of commu- estate in areas that were not previously a consideration. nity, promotes mutual Other advances, such help and support, and as home theatres, provides a greater entertainment systems, potential to form close The first thing e-commerce, express bonds with neighyou should do shipping, and healthcare bours. These percepbefore purchasing remote sensing, all faciltions have, in many a rural property: itate rural living without ways, reversed the trend of urban migra- seek professional facing isolation from advice from mainstream culture. tion and increased the a REALTOR速 demand for country experienced in the Halton Hills and the living. purchase and sale Town of Erin are blessed Small town living of rural real estate. with a large number of appealing real estate is especially attracoptions, ranging from tive to buyers who subdivisions on the edge were raised in a rural setting. Many want to recapture the of town, to quiet, remote family homes lifestyle and security of their childhood with acreage in farming and forested and preserve it for their own children. areas. The natural environment in these The possibility of owning more land areas offers scenic beauty, fresh air and clean living. also provides great appeal.

With the evolution of communication technologies, many people now have the option of working from home, no longer having to endure the time and 多nancial demands of commuting.

page 20 winter 2012

Before You Buy Purchasing real estate of any kind requires potential buyers to consider a multitude of factors, and becomes even more complicated when buying rural

REAL ESTATE

property. While many of the same variables are at play, they must be examined in a different context. This article outlines some of the most important things to keep in mind when considering buying property in a rural setting.

The ¿rst thing you should do before purchasing a rural property is to seek professional advice from a REALTOR® experienced in the purchase and sale of rural real estate. This trusted, valuable resource will be able to answer all of your questions about country living, and has usually lived either in a rural environment or the community of interest. If you plan to use the same realtor to sell your house in the city and purchase a rural property, exercise caution as this individual may not have rural real estate expertise. A rural REALTOR® can provide you with a wealth of valuable information that will enable you to make an informed purchase decision.

To determine if rural living is suitable for you and your family, take the time to visit several potential areas of interest to get a sense of the community and the lifestyle.

The Rural Checklist

Relocation

Purchasing a home in a rural area can be a big adjustment for those unaccustomed to it. Making a list of the qualities you want in a property will help you to determine which elements could potentially satisfy your requirements.

Some considerations might include commuting distance from work and the nearest urban centre, availability of schools, facilities and amenities, type of climate year-round, and desired aspects of the property itself, such as size, rooms and land.

Map out the location of and distance to hospitals, grocery stores, banks, schools and other places of interest.

Keep in mind that many rural areas do not have city road maintenance, or water and sewer pipes, so make sure you’re ready to be responsible for those

Water, Septic Systems...

Will the system supply enough water to meet your needs? When visiting a property of interest, check for well pressure by running several faucets simultaneously while Àushing a toilet.

Most urban homes have a municipal water supply, but rural properties do not. You will need to understand what type of well is serving the property and whether it is shared or private.

If the water is drawn from a dug well, is it potable? What’s the depth of the well and the age of the water system?

Rules govern how cisterns and septic systems are installed and maintained to ensure a safe water supply. Water quality testing and inspection of these systems are important considerations during the purchase process. Find out the age and location of the septic tank,

aspects of a country home. If you live in the city, these may be entirely new considerations for you.

winter 2012 page 21

especially if you envision installing an in-ground pool or circular driveway in the future. It’s important to know whether the property’s systems will work for you, both now and in the future. Your rural REALTOR® can provide you with a wealth of information in this area.

The potential valuation of rural real estate is usually much more varied than it is for urban properties, as no two properties are the same. A rural REALTOR® who specializes in your area of interest will know how to evaluate and compare values.

Potential Development?

Accessibility When viewing a property, check roadways for accessibility in all seasons.

Ask about any rights-of-way or easements. Consider the maintenance costs of any outbuildings and fences. You may also want to ¿nd out if there have been any disputes over property lines or other situations that could impact property value. Finally, when visiting any rural property, be sure to dress appropriately and wear closed-toed shoes or boots.

Find out whether your desired piece of rural real estate is equipped to support your vision. The farm next door may be slotted for a subdivision. If you want to keep horses or livestock, will the town’s by-laws permit it? Find out if you can build a shop, cut down trees, or put up a solar panel on your property. With so many variables, you need to do a bit of research before you purchase a rural property. You rural REALTOR®can help you with that.

Property Value

Anticipate Agricultural Impacts

Is the Property Under- or Over-Valued?

This is obviously something you would consider regardless of what type of property you want to purchase, but it takes on a whole new level of importance with rural properties.

City homes are not usually purchased with the intent of raising animals or running a small business, but these are often considerations when purchasing acreage or property in the country. How a property may be used is governed by

county rules and regulations and varies from town to town. Rules govern issues such as the number and type of animals you can keep, the kind of business you can operate, and the type of equipment you can use on the property.

It is also important to familiarize yourself with local regulations about your rights and responsibilities regarding your potential farming neighbours.

Many areas have “right-to-farm” regulations that protect farmers.

While there are standards farmers must legally comply with about certain types of pollution, regulations concerning odour and other issues can vary by location and are designed to allow for reasonable farming activities. Not only can this impact your satisfaction with the property, but it can also inÀuence your resale value.

Unique Cost Considerations While real estate tax rates tend to be lower in the country due to fewer amenities, keep in mind that you may end up paying more because of the increased size of your property and due to less pending tax credits. Be sure to factor in added gas costs for driving to shopping, work and entertainment. Heating a country home can also be costly, especially if alternative heating fuel is outside natural gas lines. Insurance for rural properties can run high as well.

City homes don’t have barns, workshops or tractors. All of these contribute to the value of a rural property and should be weighed carefully both at the time of listing and again when an offer is presented.

Conservation Authorities It’s important to note that many rural residential properties are subject to the jurisdiction of a regional conservation authority. This body may impose severe restrictions on any construction on, or alterations to, the land. A page 22 winter 2012

letter of enquiry must be sent to the appropriate conservation authority for the area to see if any such restrictions apply. Consult your rural REALTOR® for more information.

Zoning Perhaps your daughter wants a pony, or you envision a need to park a tractor trailer. Make sure that whatever you want to do or own is permitted by the

town’s zoning. Weight restrictions are imposed on some municipally-maintained roads and the Manure Density Spread (MDS) can be a factor on how many animals you can keep on your property. Zoning can also limit building plans and renovations while for properties zoned seasonal, municipality does not maintain the roadways and may not provide emergency services in winter.

The Importance of Planning The process, transactions and mortgages of rural real estate differ in many ways from urban properties. Financial institutions vary on how much land they assess to determine the value of your mortgage, and on what the current and future use of the property will be.

As a general rule, rural estate homes on less than ¿ve acres enjoy similar ¿nancing privileges as urban properties

but the terms and conditions of an Agreement of Purchase and Sale on a rural property can be very complex.

Work with a rural REALTOR® to ensure you are protected, and to learn whether your potential property quali¿es for a conventional mortgage.

While you may want to relocate quickly, taking time to do research could save you from a costly mistake.

REAL ESTATE Be realistic about the time investment, and remember – peace and quiet has the potential to turn to boredom if you allow it. Before looking at rural properties, do your homework. Speak with others who have moved to rural locations. Follow the suggestions and considerations outlined in this article, and above all, work with a trusted rural REALTOR®.

About The Author Denise Dilbey is a REALTOR® with Royal LePage Meadowtowne Realty, Brokerage in Georgetown, ON who specializes in country & farm real estate properties and relocation in the Region of Halton, Caledon and Town of Erin area. She is an Accredited Senior Real Estate Specialist. Denise Dilbey also works with real estate investors and home sellers. winter 2012 page 23

C

corporate restructuring

Business expansion usually entails a modification of your initial objectives with regards to ownership whether you presently operate as a sole proprietor or as a corporation. Change in ownership may encompass other shareholders such as family or key employees.

Sole proprietor to corporation The conversion to corporate form may be based on tax or on non-tax reasons.

Non-tax reasons may include limited liability which is not available to a sole proprietor or the possibility that other businesses will only do business with a corporation.

As a sole proprietor, your self-employment income is reported on your personal tax return, taxed on the basis of graduated tax rates. If your taxable income is over $132,406 but below the $500,000 taxable income level, your marginal rate is at 46.41%. Effective July 1, 2012, the top rate in Ontario has increased from 46.41% to 49.53% if your 2012 taxable income is over $500,000.

For corporations resident in Ontario, the ¿rst $500,000 of active business income is taxed at about 15.5% and excess is taxed at about 26.5%.

If you retain the pro¿ts in the corporation, there is a tax deferral of about 30.91% if active business income is under $500K and you are personally at the top marginal rate. If the corporation annually pays out most of its corporate after-tax pro¿ts as salaries/dividends, there is no real tax bene¿t of incorporating because there is no tax deferral.

To incorporate you need to determine a name for your corporation and who will be the shareholders.

Will they be entitled to voting rights?

page 24 winter 2012

Will they participate in the growth of the company or just be entitled to discretionary dividends? In order to avoid adverse income tax implications, the issuance of shares has to be properly implemented.

You may be transferring your business assets including unrealized goodwill and liabilities to the corporation.

In order to avoid adverse tax implications, it is suggested to have your lawyer prepare a purchase and sale agreement and you should timely ¿le prescribed CRA election forms that will exempt the asset transfer from HST and from personal tax on any potential unrealized appreciation.

Income splitting opportunities Structured properly, dividends may be paid on one class of shares at the exclusion of another class. If you are in the top marginal tax bracket and your adult child needs to pay $10,000 in tuition, you have to draw $18,700 in additional salary or about $14,800 in dividends to ¿nance the tuition.

If you’re adult child, held a non-voting class of special shares and had no other income, he or she may receive up to $37,000 in dividends without tax payable (all ¿gures are approximate).

A discretionary family trust is often utilized where a parent wants to provide the bene¿ts of stock ownership, but

does not know who will ultimately control or manage the company.

A corporate bene¿ciary named in the trust indenture, will provide a cost and tax effective way to transfer excess cash to a holding or sister corporation. There may also be bene¿ts from a family law perspective in utilizing a discretionary family trust.

shareholder where there are other shareholders. In addition to provisions relating to the general operations of the business, the agreement will have key provisions with respect to triggering events including death, disability and the lifetime transfer of shares.

Retaining your QSBC status & creditor prooÀng

A discretionary

Corporations that accumulate excess cash or investments not needed for working capital requirements may not entitle common shareholders to utilize their capital gains exemption if 90% of the fair market value of the company’s assets (including unrealized goodwill) are not used in an active business.

Owners should consider transferring non-business assets on a timely, taxdeferred basis to another corporation.

This type of transaction may insulate these assets from the active business operations and from potential creditors.

Often, clients are in receipt of an offer from an unrelated party to sell their shares when the shares are not qualifying for the capital gains exemption. The tax-deferred transaction will generally not be effective if it is implemented within two years prior to the sale.

If you utilize a family trust as an ownership vehicle, each bene¿ciary of the trust may be entitled to their available capital gains exemption. Therefore by utilizing a trust, the combined available capital gains exemption (maximum $750K) is multiplied by the number of bene¿ciaries as opposed to one capital gains exemption if there was only one direct shareholder.

If structured properly, the trust may not have to own the shares for 24 months for a bene¿ciary to be eligible for the capital gains exemption

TAX MATTERS Key employees The most popular method is to utilize a stock option agreement for the key employee to have the right to purchase common shares at a predetermined purchase price over a short period.

This is generally done where the employee can’t afford a fair market value purchase price.

family trust is often utilized where a

An alternative is to freeze the company and issue new shares for a nominal amount to the employee with the present shareholder holding both (i) ¿xed value shares equal to the value at the time of the freeze and (ii) controlling voting shares.

parent wants to provide the benefits of stock ownership, but does not know who will ultimately

At some later date, the employee may acquire the funding to purchase the ¿xed value shares held by the controlling shareholder.

control or manage the company.

Without a properly drafted agreement, the door is open to potential shareholder disputes and unforeseen adverse income tax implications.

Structuring properly the acquisition of an employee buy-out is critical as a poor structure could cause signi¿cant adverse implications to the vendor.

Larry Stolberg CA, CPA,CFP

Disclaimer to readers: Contact your professional advisor prior to implementing any of the outlined strategies.

Practice restricted to Canadian & U.S. taxation Unaudited financial statements available By appointment only

Larry Stolberg Shareholders’ agreements Shareholder agreements outline in detail the wishes of the controlling

CA, CPA, CFP

TAX SPECIALIST

647-298-1339 lstolberg@lnsca.com

245 Commercial St., Milton, On L9T 2J3 winter 2012 page 25

T

the new 2013 accord

Looking at the new 2013 Accord, there are many new things to be excited about but most importantly is what this car will bring into your driveway.

First thing ¿rst: what you see is what you’ll get when driving this new Accord, a sedan that is satisfying your ego and its main purpose getting you there (comfortably and safely); and you get to choose which one of these two is more important.

With more Àattened steel, matching glass contours, and just a hint line in the side panels, the 2013 Accord We’ll have a gives you a feel of solid that purlook at the things posely avoids to attract looks with you can see and unnecessary details.

at some of the things under its skin that make a good car, a great one worth having.

The folks from Honda understood you have to have the “3 comfortables” when driving this sedan: comfortable with the driver’s space, comfortable with the car’s responsiveness and comfortable with overall vision and safety and the 2013 Accord, delivers on all of them.

From the new features crammed in this generation Accord, the most important improvements when it comes to the DRIVER SPACE that you should know more about are: the dashboard, driver’s comfort and

page 26 winter 2012

the steering wheel.

THE DASHBOARD is a mix of analogue and digital displays, base Accord models having an 8” LCD screen above the center console while the upgraded models boast a second LCD (instead of the push buttons and dials). So what all these extra screens will show to the busy driver? Basically 3-things: 1- Connectivity to planet Earth, [through HondaLink™, a cloudbased system that connects you to Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, Pandora® internet radio, SMS text message function and all your favorite digital music content without hassling with your mobile phone.

HondaLink™ featuring Aha™ compatibility gives you access to personalized restaurant searches, Facebook audio feeds, audiobooks and more via the audio system interface and voice recognition]; 2- Dual zone AC control + settings, and 3- Live view of the parking space behind the car, through a rear mounted camera, [something that

CARS

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page 28 winter 2012

will become mandatory in the near future], PLUS, The Lane View feature: a second camera placed below the passenger-side mirror that points downward and to the rear which you can choose to leave it on (a bit dizzying for occupants who might be watching it), or set it to activate when you use the right turn signal.

signi¿cantly the noise while within legal speed limits, a technology pioneered and perfected successfully in Acura models.

It works like this: a microphone in the cabin picks up road noise, and the stereo emits frequencies that cancel it out so we hear less of it, hence a quieter cabin, not having to yell the things that you just wanted to talk with the others in the car.

THE STEERING WHEEL in the 2013 Accord, is more driver friendly with fewer buttons and controls so you have less to worry where they shifted when you follow the road’s twists-and-turns.

All these added up, make up for the 3-comfortables of your driving experience; task accomplished!

It displays [on the larger screen above the center console] whatever is beside and behind the right side of the vehicle. On the highway, this allows you to change lanes con¿dently while in the city, it helps you to keep an eye on cyclists that might sneak up alongside when making a right turn. Same Lane View is useful when parallel parking, allowing to maintain a perfect distance from the curb [no more dented rims or scratched wheels].

DRIVER COMFORT is improved in 3-aspects of its own: • better front seating, redesigned to accommodate North American dimensions, [rear seating also have been improved for more legroom]; • more trunk space, and • quieter ride than its previous model, using the active noise reduction system that will reduce

The interior has been revamped to an upscale modern look and actually is roomier than the previous model, despite that the car is 3.6” shorter. The leather trim gets you close to the feel of an Acura, without the badge.

Under the skin, 2013 Accord offers two power plant choices: 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V-6.

The 2.4-liter engine makes 185 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of

torque [8 more horsepower than the previous 2.4-liter, but 19 more pound-feet of torque which you’ll feel it most]. The 3.5-liter V-6 may

CARS sound familiar from the current Honda lineup, but this engine now includes i-VTEC technology, which controls valve timing and lift to deliver better ef¿ciency. This engine

makes 278 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque, plenty for the Accord, and a better fuel ef¿ciency with an actual gain of up to 4 mpg over the previous V-6 Accord.

Transmissions choices are: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and a CVT. If you are not familiar with the CVT, basically you will not feel any longer the up-down shifting making the drive a perfect smoothie, regardless the gear you ought to be in. It does come with a cost: a bit less oomph but let’s face it, you are not buying a sedan with the intention to launch it at each stoplight in the neighbourhood.

The body choices are 4 door or 2 door coupe, LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L with Navi, Sport, and Touring trims to suit your heart’s desires.

Way more to say, but all in all, the 2013 Accord is a great package worth a test drive.

Rob Leggat Team Honda Powerhouse of Milton

winter 2012 page 29

M

motoring in europe

If we don’t see these cars on our North American roads for sure it’s not our fault...

Enthusiasts here would work harder, longer hours just to enjoy one of these beauties in their driveways. We are not talking of Aston Martin richer than North Americans so One-77 or Bugatti or Koenigsegg or top end Lamborghinis which all go over the million dollar mark. The automobiles I’d like to see on our roads sell well under $200,000 and even if above that benchmark, that’s nothing extraordinary. So why don’t we see these cars advertised for sale here?

The rational of this situation is that crossing the big pond (the Atlantic) is such a big business handicap that the bottom line for the manufacturers of these cars doesn’t make sense.

I am not saying that Europeans are page 30 winter 2012

they can afford them while we can not. They are simply lucky to live nearby these shops so getting parts and service is less of a problem than it would be here. And this is just one of the obstacles.

A typical North American car plant churns out between 500 to 1,500 cars daily, or about one car for every 50-55 seconds. Chrysler, at Bramalea plant, not the largest plant on the continent, is maxing out at 1,400 units per day. The small European manufacturers make 10-50 cars per month, that is 2-12 per week which

CARS

winter 2012 page 31

means counting on them in seconds, is ridiculous. So if the large volume European manufacturers, the likes of Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, FIAT, don’t find it feasible to set up new dealership networks (with all the distribution support necessary for service and parts), then is not likely an option for these tinny super-talented shops, to attempt to sell their cars here.

technical challenges and lots of pa- It wouldn’t be fair to call these asperwork in need for approvals, and sembly shops simplistically, body you get the picture as to why slim shops, but more like performance chances of happening. coach builders of 60-70 years ago, reborn. By the way, on the roads, Engines, trannys, brake systems, all Duesenbergs are one of a kind control systems, suspensions, all despite that actually only two base are available to small production skeleton models were manufactured ventures, off the shelves, like in a gi- by Duesenberg. The unique part of ant custom parts catalogue. So why each one, was the art and craftsmanship of the coach builders. should they reinvent them?

European safety and emission standards are generally less strict than what we got accustomed with here, so for them it means a need to redesign everything, a mountain of

These shops that thrive in Europe, buy performance sub-systems for generations, from the likes of BMW, Mercedes, Siemens or Ford (yes, the big blue oval).

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Wiesmann, Morgan, McLarren come to mind for their distinct designs, all British labels intertwined for the past 50 years with teutonic suppliers and not surprisingly, the cars made by these craftsmen, usually surpass the performance of similar cars offered directly by their big suppliers. Strange world, but somehow it seems to work. McLaren car geeks went as far as establishing new automotive sciences, so advanced and ahead of the pack that they were at times, banned from the race tracks, unless they supplied all the F1 teams with their technology; (if you may hear Microsoft mentioned here don’t be surprised because they were partners with McLaren on their revolutionary Formula 1 electronic management project). Yet, Mclaren over the years used engines supplied

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As BMW, who has an established dealership thinks that it is not feasible to bring here their Wiesmann hand made cars, then what would be the chances that others, without partners like BMW to show up here? Collectors? well, that’s a different story as they don’t have to drive them with emission and safety certifiications; they park them or take them for a spin on closed tracks...

Few years ago, FIAT, had bought Chrysler who has a larger dealer network than BMW, yet the group

CARS MF4

MF5

winter 2012 page 33

page 34 winter 2012

CARS still tests the waters only with the smallest car in their lineup: “FIAT 500”, basically a quarter size of a Chrysler “300”, priced at almost half the money of the gorgeous full size sedan...I don’t expect FIAT, who beside Chrysler, also owns Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Ferrari, to import these Maseratis (see page 34) just to satisfy my cravings but I have seen on three different occasions Maserati “Quatroporte” passing me by on 401, so, good news > someone here is selling them.

Nowadays FIAT, is considering producing at Chrysler’s Jeep plant the new Maserati SUV “Kubang”, based on a Jeep Cherokee platform.

A nice addition to the selection of what we’ll see on our roads from the bunch of “foreign cars made here”, but a Maserati poncho over a Jeep?

The car would have to be flawless off the gates, as they intend to pin it against none other than the king of the SUVs: Porsche Cayenne.

Lucky for us, the driver/consumer, BMW, Volvo, Toyota, Honda, Volkswagen, all have set up local assembly shops so by now we are having some variety of “foreign cars made here”, but when it comes to design, I have to admit that I still am frustrated that Europeans have far greater selection than us to the type of wheels they can buy, regardless the price range.

McLaren, coming through their third company rebirth, plans to make US market the prime target for its new lineup, with cars not intended for lazy drivers. M4 is their re-entry on the street and fast tracks, with P1 to follow soon, including the shades of orange and winter 2012 page 35

P1

F1 F1

M4 page 36 winter 2012

their Formula1 technology.

About McLaren technology: it’s a system that monitors vehicle behaviour when in a turn, to supplement the braking or the power wheels receive separately, based on gazillion metrix and calculations made in milliseconds which keep the car on the intended speed and travelling direction.

It doesn’t replace the steering wheel, gas and brake pedals the driver still have to use to get to the destination, practically, it’s more like laying down custom rails - only for yourself- to defy side G-forces and skidding, to bring you there faster, ahead of your competition(?) if only by a nose... and that’s what matters when you drive one of these marvels: keep the others in the rear mirror... get there FIRST. No glory for second place!

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E E

xercising their options

exercising their options

When challenged When challenged by adversity, by adversity, these Georgetown residents refused these Georgetown to take it lying residents refused to down. take it lying Theydown. got up, got physical, They got up, and got got physical, their lives back. and got their lives back.

When you meet Georgetown resident Sharon English, you're likely to notice the cut of her hair, the colour of her eyes, the way her wardrobe favours blue.

But you're not very likely to guess English's age--a shocking 51, for she looks almost a decade young- er--nor the fact that, from the age of 7 until very recently, Sharon was quite overweight.

Except for a brief period in her 40s, that is. “I just stopped eating,” she admits, “and it worked... for a while.”

Other things that worked for a while: Slim Fast. Weight Watchers.

The infamous cabbage-soup diet. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.

It wasn't until English registered for a 12-week boot camp at a local fitness-andwellness centre that she finally started to produce lasting results, ultimately vapourizing 104 pounds in 14 months. (Editor's note: In the following sidebar, you can meet some of English's instructors.)

page 38 winter 2012

The boot camp attracted English for a couple of reasons.

First, it had a definite beginning, middle, and end, meaning she could see the light at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Second, the boot camp was specifically designed for people requiring fat loss, so there was common ground, peer support, and a supportive environment.

“What works for me is thinking about my children. I want to stick around for them!”

What did English learn from her experience? “Before, I made my mind up about what I could and couldn't handle before I even bothered trying.

Now I know I'm better off forming opinions after I've tried. And that's not just for exercise. That's for everything.”

Now, thanks to her hard work-and for the first time in her adult life--English can shop for new clothes in “normal stores and sections.” The compliments keep rolling in, and s h e h a s n ' t l o s t a ny o f h e r

bao..... .

SHARON ENGLISH, 51, lost 104 pounds of fat thanks to a 12-week-long boot camp at a local fitness-andwellness centre.

enthusiasm for exercise.

“Finding the right place, the right instructors, is key” she says.

She wants to lose even more, toward her goal weight of 150 to 175 pounds. “That's what's healthy for me. And that's what I want to be. Healthy.”

When it comes to exercise, 65-year-old married father of two John Day isn't in it for fat loss. He's already quite trim and, like Sharon, looks, sounds, even moves in a surprisingly youthful and sprightly manner.

This Mississauga native and long-time Georgetown resident is in it for strength: strength to manage day-today s t res s e s ; s tre n g th to recover from illnesses (oral cancer, and enlarged prostate,

JOHN DAY, 65, exercises as a means by which to prepare for surgeries, recover from illnesses, and manage the stresses of everyday life.

winter 2012 page 39

and an abdominal aortic aneurysm, all in just the past few years); and strength to recover from surgeries.

Day first joined his local fitness-and-wellness centre in 2005. Unlike most people, who stumble through years and years of self-directed exercise programs without much to show for it, he went straight for a trainer. (Editor’s note: To meet Day’s trainer, Jeff Babister, turn to the next page.)

Says Day, “I had never been to a gym before. I was more of an outdoorsy type. When I looked around, I thought, You're going to hurt yourself!

Get a trainer! So I did. It was the best thing I ever did for myself. The second best thing

was getting my doctor and trainer to compare notes before I started. That was helpful for everyone. I've kept a trainer ever since.”

“Success is when you fall down seven times and get back up eight.”

Recently, upon being scheduled for an operation, John actually intensified his training. He worked out until the day before his procedure. “I figured, the fitter I was, the quicker I'd bounce back,” he says. Three days after the very same procedure, he was back on a treadmill.

Today, Day keeps active in many different ways. A recovering alcoholic, he attends

12-step-program meetingsregularly. But that's only the tip of the iceberg for this busy, vital man about town. He recently became certified as a personal trainer and Nordic pole-walking instructor.

His next step?

“I may study to become a post-cancer exercise consultant. Exercise was such an important part of my recovery.

I want others to receive the same benefits I did.”

Additional reporting by SEAN PATRICK SULLIVAN.

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bao..... .

John and Sharon are both active members John and Sharon are both active members of The BAO Institute For Healthy of The BAO Institute For Healthy Living in Living in Georgetown.

We decided drop bymeet and meet their trainers and Georgetown.

We decided to droptoby and their trainers andsome instructors. instructors.

Here are highlightsHere fromare our some conversation. highlights from our conversation:

“When considering a trainer or instructor, the biggest mistake people tend to make is judging on the basis of superficial things like age, race, and gender.

What really matters is personality and connection. Is this trainer dedicated and knowledgeable?

Is this instructor engaging and effective? These are the questions you have to ask yourself.” JEFF N GUYEN

“People always tell me they ]hg m aZo^ mbf^ mh phkd hnm [^\Znl^ ma^r k^ mhh [nlr' Ma^r have jobs and kids and homes and so many other things to do.

Same here; I understand. But you know what? Sometimes, you have to put yourself first. When you take some time to work out, it never has anything but positive effects on your entire family.” EL AIN A BA HM

“The human body is predictable.

People who work hard see results relatively quickly. When my clients are diligent in their efforts at the gym and at home, they benefit, big time. Unfortunately, the opposite is also true. Those who simply go through the motions and make poor lifestyle choices don't progress quickly, sometimes not at all, and tend to become frustrated.” JEFF BA BIS TER

“I'm always amazed to see people paying a fortune for a trainer while refusing to change their eating habits. Food and fitness go hand in hand. It's like fueling a car: You can't put unleaded gasoline into a diesel tank and actually expect it to work. My advice is to follow the 80/20 rule. Eat what's right for your body 80% of the time, and the other 20%, allow yourself to be a little bit naughty.” TRUDY DIXO N

“I would say that everyone needs a trainer or instructor.

Even people who are very fit.

Even trainers and instructors!

We all have busy lives, and sometimes we don't feel like going to the gym alone. Having trainers keeps us from falling off the wagon. Appointments for set days and times mean fewer skipped work-outs.” REID PA RKER

“Being healthy—having a truly healthy lifestyle—is about so much more than eating right and working out. It's about using, feeding, and caring for all parts of yourself—your body, your mind, your soul, everything—so the way you're living is complete and fulfilled. Also: Please get plenty of SLEEP!!! It makes such a difference.” L I N A WI L L I A M S

winter 2012 page 41

L

local shopping or online?

For the price-conscious shopper, the advantages of shopping online can not be ignored.

You also have the convenience of shopping anytime, day or night with delivery right to your door.

So, a half an hour shopping spree, is just that, half an hour and we move on with the tasks of the day.

Lately, even eye glasses have become a popular item for the online shopper with some sites having thousands of frames to choose from. Who wouldn’t enjoy to save some money on a purchase that became necessary and shopping online seems to ¿t from all directions.

So,with all these conveniences available to you, why make the choice to shop at your local optical store?

Simply, here are the differences of shopping from a licensed optician, in person, versus on line buying from a remote entrepreneur that you will never meet, and at the end, draw your own conclusions.

PROPER FIT Although you may be able to up load a picture of yourself to the online eye glass store and see the glasses superimposed on your image, this is no substitute for trying them on in person. Being able to feel preliminary the product on your face and judge the comfort level for yourself, should be your main criteria in the “yes” decision. A quali¿ed optician or trained staff, will be able to assist you in picking a frame that ¿ts your face well, compliments it’s shape and suits the purpose for the long haul. They will also be able to recommend an appropriate eye size, bridge size, temple length as we all have a unique combination of these details.

MEASUREMENTS Some prescriptions can require up to 5 different measurements, all of which should only be preformed by a quali¿ed experienced professional. The most common measurement is called a P.D. which stands for: pupilary distance. Different pupilary measurements are required for different prescriptions (such as distance vs near ). This must be accurate as it dictates where the center of the lens must sit in order for you to see clearly and avoid undue eye strain. Printing a ruler off the web site and trying to measure it yourself is not an option if you are looking for optimal clarity and comfort of wear.

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ADJUSTMENTS In spite of having all the appropriate measurements taken, expect a ¿nal frame adjustment at the pick-up as part of the service provided by the store you purchased from. They will make sure that your new glasses are comfortable and aligned properly. If you should have to come back for minor adjustments over the months they will be happy to assist you.

Who will adjust the glasses you have purchased online?

Some optical store may agree to adjust them for you if you assume all risk of possible damage and it usually comes with an additional cost. But do not be surprised if you are refused all together.

REPAIRS / WARRANTIES Even for those of us who wear and handle glasses with the upmost care, accidents do happen and occasionally they are in need of repair. This is another opportunity you can bene¿t from the service of the nearby optician, or the store you purchased from. Most minor repairs come free of charge although replacement of parts may be done for a small fee.

Frames purchased at a reputable store will come with a warranty of at least one year. This will usually cover any defects with the product or breakage caused by normal wear and tear, not due to negligence or abuse. Horror stories on this topic are numerous, but outside the scope of this comparison on what to expect when to buy your next pair of glasses.

CHANGE OF PRESCRIPTION Sometimes a prescription may need to be re¿ned. A re-exam by your optometrist may be required. What if the doctor sees ¿t to modify your prescription? In most cases the local optician you purchased from will be able to replace the lenses in your glasses free of charge (within 60 days), option that may not be possible with an online purchase that sent you what you ordered, fair and square.

BRANDS AND FAKES Well,well,well... that bargain you scored online may be just what you paid, a cheap look alike of the brand you wanted, hence the reluctance of experienced store technicians to make adjustments you might need. The materials used in such knockoffs don’t match the intricacies of the original design therefore those parts intended to allow for adjustments may be too brittle, too stiff or swing arms not reinforced to match the original brand you think you received.

Can you tell the difference between a genuine Nikon lens and a fake, after they are mounted?

Keeping an optical store available to cater to your needs is an expensive undertaking as the store has to be conveniently located in your neighborhood, accessible year round and a licensed optician, available at all times as stipulated by the College of Opticians of Ontario. No other person than an optician (or a student optician who works under the direct

HEALTH supervision of a licensed optician) can dispense eye glasses or contact lenses in an optical dispensary.

Websites will sell you vision glasses, without having to employ professionals to guarantee a proper ¿t, and make all the necessary adjustments.

Neither do they have to be responsible for measurements not taken accurately, defects with the product, or changes in your prescription. These websites can be anywhere in the world, replacing all the service details of a professionally ¿tted pair of glasses with a mere...courier service.

When selecting your new eye glasses from a local optician albeit more expensive than websites, you know you will be provided with proper service right from day one through the life of your glasses, making it a truly rewarding experience.

Purchasing your glasses with the help of a licensed optician, also assures you, beside the quality of service, that your choice of brand lenses and designer frames are exactly what you will receive for your money, not knockoffs from a... lucrative entrepreneur.

David Joseph Family Optical

EYE EXAMS GLASSES CONTACT LENSES SAFETY GLASSES

Family OPTICAL over 23 years in service Georgetown Bolton

905-873-3050

905-857-5556

winter 2012 page 43

S

seasonal affective disorder

Every autumn, with days getting shorter, and the amount of sunlight becoming scarce, about 20% of people in Ontario start to get the “winter blues”.

But 2% to 3% experience an even more severe depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

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There will be a few readers that will not accept everything about SAD, simply because they might be part of the larger group of people less affected by it. Understandably, they will have a hard time believing that the whole SAD-thing is not a fabrication, nor a quick attention-getter.

thing that distinguishes SAD from “winter blues” is that it repeats year after year, with the patient going through the same cycle of depression, and normalcy.

SAD difference from “holiday blues”

SAD difference from SAD also differs from “holiday blues,” which refers to sadness or “winter blues” SAD is usually confused with “winter blues” or “winter blahs” but the two conditions are different.

Typical to “winter blues”, people living in the cold countries, commonly complain of having less energy, feeling down, and putting on weight during winter. These symptoms characterize “winter blues”, but they occur at a much greater degree in people with SAD. For instance, SAD patients may extend their sleep by as much as four or more hours each day. Women with SAD also report worsening premenstrual symptoms. Another

depression during the holiday season. Holiday blues are caused by psychosocial factors such as decreased exercise, increased family obligations, isolation, expectations that one should feel happy during the holidays. In contrast, SAD has a more biological and genetic origin, and is a subtype of a major depressive disorder.

It’s much harder to cope with SAD than with “winter / holiday blues”, and there is even a potential risk of suicide among SAD patients. The distinguishing characteristic of SAD is that it occurs yearly at about the

same time, which is why diagnosis is more reliable if the patient has experienced symptoms for two consecutive years.

HEALTH

Other symptoms attributed to SAD could be: •

• • • • • • • •

change in appetite, in particular a craving for sweet or starchy foods weight gain decreased energy fatigue tendency to oversleep difficulty concentrating irritability avoidance of social situations feelings of anxiety and despair

SAD can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms are similar to other depressive conditions.

However, symptoms that occur for 2 consecutive winters, without any other explanation, indicate the presence of SAD. Usually the symptoms disappear when springtime arrives.

Who gets SAD? Children and teenagers can be affected by SAD, but primarily it occurs in those over 20 years old.

The risk of SAD decreases with age.

Studies revealed that similar to other depressive conditions, women are affected more than men.

Populations in northern areas of the world, such as Scandinavia, Alaska, Canada, and Ireland, are more likely to have symptoms of SAD.

reasons

...to make our pharmacy your pharmacy!

To see all the “included” services we perform for our patients,visit

www.youngspharmacy.com click on the “Dispensary” button and then click on the “Free Services” button.

Why so SAD? While there is research into the causes of SAD, there is no confirmed cause. SAD is thought to be related to seasonal variations in the amount of sunlight, and how they affect us.

47 Main Street, Downtown Georgetown 905-877-2711 winter 2012 page 45

For thousands of years, our “internal clock” responded to the changes in seasons and the corresponding length of the daylight hours.

In the past, our daily activities occurred when the sun shone, and we slept when it was dark. Nowadays that we have electricity and light all day long, our days have the same length throughout the year, regardless of shortened sunlight during the fall and winter.

Our daily schedules no longer change with the seasons, and our internal clock becomes out of synch with our biological circadian rhythms, resulting in the symptoms of SAD. Also, those who don’t have any exposure to natural light, such as those in dark apartments, indoor work environments, or shift workers, can also get out of synch. Other researches propose a theory that the chemistry of the brain may also become disrupted by SAD, affecting sleep, mood and appetite.

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Turn that frown into a sifies exactly the light spectrum that SAD sufferers need for the cure... smile... and for that matter, all of us!

Fortunately, there are treatments available for people suffering from SAD. Those with severe symptoms should see their doctor to ensure they are diagnosed and treated properly. Anti-depressant medicines are safe and effective in treating the symptoms. Counselling and therapy can also be beneficial.

For those with less severe symptoms, medicine-less treatments may be enough to improve their symptoms. Spending time outdoors and daily exercise can provide benefits, along with maximizing sunlight entering their homes. Opening curtains, installing skylights and adding lamps, and sitting by the window can also help.

Surprisingly enough, winter provides also an antidote for SAD: outdoor activity when white snow is on the ground, even on overcast days, y white snow reflects and inten-

Light up your life!

The most effective way to improve exposure to light is with Bright Light Therapy.

This photo-treatment administers copious amount of bright light to sufferers to simulate exposure to the sunrise, which helps to re-synchronize their circadian rhythms.

The bright light may also stimulate the brain’s production of neurochemicals responsible for positive moods. The lights may be purchased or rented at select pharmacies, or purchased from online retailers.

The recommended starting dose of light is 10,000 LUX (a measure of light intensity), for half an hour each morning shortly after waking up. The dosage can then be increased to a similar eveningg ses-

s sion or decreased depending on the d rresponse of the user. u A large study of sufferers SSAD using bright light u therapy, showed th clinical improvecl ment in 80% of m users, when adminus istered at the optiist mal early hour of the ma day. Sometimes the day improvement can be imp seen as early as a few see days of bright light day photo-treatment. pho If you are feeling “SAD” this fall and “SA winter, whether it’s wint a ffull-fledged case of SSAD, or just the “winter blues”, consider your doctor] if Bright [together with you will help to improve Light Therapy wil your well-being.

HEALTH Medical treatment equipment vary from each manufacturer, floor model lamps, desk tops, even travel lamps can be used, depending on patient’s life style.

If Bright Light Therapy is the final choice for treatment, be aware of lights claiming correctly “full spectrum” but with only a fraction of the 10,000 LUX output, as researches determined to be the optimal treatment level.

Read product labels and specifications to be sure you have an effective treatment light for the relief from Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Randy Carman Pharmacist

Our talented healthcare team is here for YOU! ... more reason to make our ur pharmacy your pharmacy!

47 Main St. South, Georgetown

www.youngspharmacy.com

905-877-2711

winter 2012 page 47

Easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback • Legendary fuel economy • Available Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) • Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) • Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines • Available voice-activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ • SMS Texting • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ with audio streaming • USB audio interface • Advanced safety The All-New CR-V. Yeah, it does that.

9.2 city/6.6 hwy/8.1 combined L/100 km. Fuel consumption for comparison purposes only and may vary with usage and accessories. See Dealer for latest EnerGuide results published by Natural Resources Canada (when available). Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines intended to provide assistance to the driver. Always exercise appropriate care while reversing. Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) available on LX and EX models and comes standard on EX-L and Touring models. Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with bilingual Voice Recognition and steering wheel controls comes standard on Touring models only. Compatible with select smartphones. Your wireless carrier’s rate plans apply. Only use texting feature when conditions allow you to do so safely.

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