Fine Lifestyles Halifax Volume 4 Issue 3 2015

FineLifestyles Fine Lifestyles FALL 2015 | VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3

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first word

FineLifestyles HALIFAX

With Fine Lifestyles editor LoRi MCKAy

“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.”

—F. Scott Fitzgerald

F

all is my favourite season — pumpkins on doorsteps, autumn colours, fresh air, warm sweaters and local produce.

A trip to the Annapolis Valley is the perfect way to take in everything fall has to offer, from scenery to entertainment to food.

Find out more in our special section, Explore Annapolis Valley.

As grapes are harvested across the region, it’s the ideal time to try new fine wines and cocktails. In this issue, Fine Lifestyles interviews Canadian actor Dan Aykroyd and The Tragically Hip’s guitarist Rob Baker about their involvement in the exciting business of wines and spirits.

This year’s coveted host city for the CCMA Awards and Country Music Week went to Halifax for the first time in more than 30 years. Read about country music’s biggest names in our article on the 2015 CCMAs. Planning a vacation? You might want to check out our Top Five Ways to Discover Australia. Also in this issue, we sit down with Nova Scotian singer Dave Gunning to find about his latest album, and television personality Scott McGillivray is back with a column on high-end appliances.

www.finelifestyles.ca Fall 2015 Volume 4, Issue 3 Editor Lori McKay

lorim@finelifestyles.ca

Art Direction Lisa Redden Design Candace Haiko, Ghislaine Moffitt, Shanna Joudrey, Amber Moon Staff Writers Trina Annand, Henny Buffinga, Melanie Furlong, Tobie Hainstock, Tonya Lambert, Tori Stafford, Courtney Tait Cover Photography Stephen Jess Photography Bruce Jollimore, David Elliott, Stephen Jess, Brent McCombs Contributing Writers Cheryl Doherty, Lisa Drader-Murphy, Angela Campagnoni Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

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Tracey Wallace Sales Manager 902.441.4456 traceyw@finelifestyles.ca

Suzana Cabrita 902.817.7897 suzanac@finelifestyles.ca

Jeremy Mott 902.670.9922 jeremym@finelifestyles.ca

Boyd Wolstenholme 902.410.2693 boydw@finelifestyles.ca

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FineLifestyles Halifax is published four times a year by FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada Ltd. publications are copyrighted 2015 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to FineLifestyles Halifax, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada Ltd. or its writers. The name FineLifestyles Halifax, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of FineLifestyles Atlantic Canada Ltd. or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Canada Post Publication Agreement #41818060 Return undeliverables to: 3440 Balsam Grove; Regina, Saskatchewan; S4V 1H1

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CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS STYLE ..................................................... 9 HEALTH & WELLNESS ......................24 ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ...47

54

WHEELS ...............................................66 BUSINESS ............................................ 72 SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL.... 90 SPECIAL SECTION: FINE HOMES ..... 115

FEATURES Halifax Hosts CCMAs .............................47 Celebrity Wines & Spirits..................... 54 Feature: Women of Achievement ..... 72 COVER STORY: Halifax Dental Studio ............................. 74 Feature: Explore Annapolis Valley.. 102

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It’s not uncommon to associate the rich and famous with the world of fine wines and high-end cocktails, but it seems celebrities across the globe are becoming more connected to the industry than ever before.

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hat’s because the number of A-list actors, musicians and athletes producing, partnering in or endorsing wine and spirits is growing all the time. Whether they’re the beautiful bottles behind the bar of your favourite cocktail lounge or wine bar, or the go-to favourites holding their own in homes and restaurants, celebrity liquors, wines, champagnes and even beers are everywhere. And chances are, you’ve tried one.

From David Beckham’s partnership with Diageo to create Haig Club single grain scotch whiskey, to Brad Pitt and Angelia Jolie’s Miraval Rosé produced at the French vineyard where the couple

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FL

STYLE

ATLANTIC

FASHION WEEK New Things in Store for 2015

By Angela Campagnoni Photos Brent McCombs/AlterEgo Photography

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a little later in the season, but I promise it will be well worth the wait! Stay up to date with those developments on our website, www.atlanticfashionweek.com.

It’s always a thrill to see who is new to our runways and how those returning have evolved over the seasons.

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Angela Campagnoni Photo by Jenn Gregory

t is hard to believe we are coming up to the ninth season of Atlantic Fashion Week. This exciting week is a time for the public and the fashion industry to focus on our local talent and see some of the amazing new pieces they are creating.

Just like our designers strive to bring you fresh new looks, we strive to make Atlantic Fashion Week a beautiful celebration. Last season, our shows were sold out both nights. We stay successful by constantly tailoring the event. This season we will have three smaller nights, with no more than 200 seats available each, and shows geared to the designer category. This will allow the ambience to reflect what is showcasing on the runway.

It will also bring Atlantic Fashion Week

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Over the previous eight seasons we have featured more than 100 different collections, ranging from student work to established designers. Every year I am excited to see who will be returning and who the new faces will be.

What amazing work will the students of NSCAD and da Vinci College send our way? Will Donn Sabean’s latest work grace us with flowing silk gliding down our runways? Will Anthony El-cid amaze us with his beautiful couture gowns, fitting each model as if it was specifically built for her? Will Veronica MacIsaac help us connect with the Scottish heritage that Nova Scotia is known for through her modern take on tartan designs?

Each year I feel like it’s Christmas morning getting to open my shiny new packages as each designer applies or confirms to AFW. Be sure to find event details for Atlantic Fashion Week Fall 2015 at www. atlanticfashionweek.com.

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Q&A with Kim Munson The transition of designer Kim Munson, of Orphanage clothing, has been a joy to see every year at AFW. This season, Munson has introduced new fabrics to her line that have truly allowed her draping and tailoring techniques to flourish.

No longer is she bound to work within the parameters of a deconstructed/ reconstructed garment for which she was once known.

I had the chance to pick Munson’s brain and find out her latest design philosophy and where she sees herself in the future.

Angela Campagnoni: Please tell our readers a bit about Kim the person. Where are you from? Where did you study?

Kim Munson: I was raised by women who sewed. My grandmother is my greatest inspiration because she made clothes out of necessity. I feel sad for all of the girls growing up who don’t know the importance of the sewing machine.

I studied design in Toronto at The International Academy of Design and Technology. After I graduated, I started working at Preloved as a cutter. I moved to Halifax to get Orphanage off the ground in 2003. It is a hard gig, working to get a line started. I struggled a lot. I managed and I got smarter, better, faster.

I am also teaching in the fashion program

at da Vinci College in Halifax. I teach pattern drafting, draping and sewing. I love my role there. I think it makes me a better designer.

AC: What does the concept of fashion mean to you? And how do you find inspiration for your designs?

KM: Fashion is the interaction between your inner and outer selves. Some people think fashion is flighty. It is the exact opposite. It is serious business. It cannot be faked. Inspiration comes from graffiti, band posters, sounds of the city, the feel of your feet in the ocean, relaxed silence, the pull of the tide, certain scents, a perfect curve.

AC: What are some of accomplishments as a designer?

your

KM: I produced all of the gear for Hawksley Workman’s national tour. He is an amazing musician and I worked for a long time to get to him. I would go to his concerts and leave shirts I had made for him with the girl taking tickets, hoping they might get to him. A little while later I saw his national tour poster and he was wearing one of the shirts I had left for him.

I couldn’t believe it! I contacted his tour manager and asked if I could meet with him regarding wardrobe for the upcoming tour. She agreed; I flew to Toronto and got to meet with him and his manager and together we came up for a concept for the entire band for the upcoming tour.

AC: As you mentioned earlier, it was a struggle starting out. What matters to you most in this industry?

KM: Fast fashion is a disturbing trend that must be reversed. In the beginning, I fought hard with Orphanage to promote recycled fabrics; but as my business grew, I realized I had to forgo the upcycled nature of my clothing if I wanted to make a dollar. I think most

people think it would be cheaper to make garments from recycled clothing.

In fact, it’s a very expensive advent. The seeking of the garments, the washing and cleaning, the drafting techniques that apply to previously made garments, and all of the deconstruction that has to happen before you can even cut. It was expensive and hard to produce. Although I had to leave the deconstructed nature of the original line, I only create in small runs, and maintain a high standard of local production.

AC: When fashion week ends we always try to encourage guests to buy local designers’ goods. Where can our readers find your amazing pieces?

KM: Last year I pulled the line from my retail stores to allow time to rebrand and breathe. Since then I have been selling to my private clients and that has been keeping wood in the stove. My personal clients are dedicated and loyal. I can be found through my website at www. orphanageclothing.com.

Angela Campagnoni has worked in the fashion industry for more than 25 years and is the creator and director of Atlantic Fashion Week.

Kim Munson

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STYLE Diary

Blossom Shops

“I love shopping at Nygard! The product is Canadian and it fits my body type and style. I’ve been shopping at the Sunnyside Mall location for years. Their Slims are the best.”

“Every time we have Blue Imperial Orchids we have customers that walk by and say ‘OMG those are gorgeous!’ We carry them year-round from Thailand and New Zealand.”

Nygard

Presto Pastaworks Stokes

“I am a sucker for Presto’s Caesar Salad.

I love it so much. I actually buy a tub of the dressing weekly and make my own at home. You know you’re a regular when the staff start making your order even before you even get to the counter.”

“Recently, when I was on my way to a wedding shower for a bride whom is a kitchen gadget gal, the ladies at Stokes took me around the store and wowed me with lots of great items. Did you know they even offer a bridal registry? I settled on the Triple Swiss Raclette. Thanks ladies, I will be back for a few items of my own.”

Second Cup “Have you had the Carrot Cake at Second Cup? It’s so delicious and even made locally! What a great treat to have on my way home from work with a nice decaf coffee.

Yummy!”

“The ladies at the Sunnyside Mall location make getting your size so easy. If they don’t have it in stock they will have it brought in from another location.”

“O

Soft Moc

nce you have three shops what’s another one going to hurt?” That’s what Blossom Shop owner and floral designer, Penny Taylor, thought when bringing her brand to Sunnyside Mall. Little did she know that this mall was very different from her other locations.

This Blossom Shop is a European style store that has buckets of fresh flowers and blooms from around the world that you can choose from. While you wait, their staff can create you a unique and beautiful bouquet!

The Sunnyside Mall location, Taylor says, is what everyone dreams of when they dream of wanting to own a flower shop.

“The trained staff take extra special care of the internationally sourced flowers. Every day the flowers change from bright colours, to new varieties of roses, big fluffy hydrangeas, fragrant lilies and spring bunches of tulips to make your floral dreams come alive.”

JOIN US

Now leasing- G. Mark Allen 902.456.2575

Made in the Maritimes

STYLE Diary

“We are excited to be the exclusive representative in Nova Scotia for New Brunswick charcoal artist Natasha Miller. Natasha creates dramatic Maritime scenes using charcoal from a wood fired pizza oven and acrylic paints.”

Cristall Wine Merchants

Pete’s

“You can’t get more local than a bottle of Nova 7 by Benjamin Bridge. This white wine is made with 100% Nova Scotia grapes.”

“We are always in Pete’s buying locally produced items.”

Bedazzled “Bedazzled has beautiful silver wax seal jewellery by local jewellery design company, Plum and Posey. This anchor pendant is one of our favourite designs.”

“We love Indigospirit because you can always find a local treasure such as The Secret Life of Squirrels by Bedford author, Nancy Rose.”

Indigo Spirit

Liquid Gold

World Tea House “World Tea House carries beautiful one-of-a-kind tea cosies. We love the whimsical designs from this talented local artist.”

“We love stopping

by Liquid Gold for beautiful oils and gift baskets.”

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t Made in the Maritimes Artisan Boutique in Sunnyside Mall, Bedford, we strive to increase awareness of the exceptional high quality products that are made right here in the Maritime Provinces. During your visit you will discover a unique collection of fine art, a range of pottery, a large selection of beautiful homewares, glass art, an assortment of unique pieces of indoor and outdoor artisan furniture, wood work including cutting boards, serving trays and bird houses, fibre art, folk art, jewellery, gifts for baby, wedding gifts, a large selection of Seafoam lavender products and photography and prints just to touch on a few. For the connoisseur, we also offer gourmet edibles including Rousseau Chocolate, Juliette & John Dressings, Prince Edward Island Preserves and a variety of infused honey products including a customer favourite, Peanut Butter Honey.

JOIN US

Now leasing- G. Mark Allen 902.456.2575

STYLE Diary “My favourite product is the Moroccan Oil Body Buff that is also offered in our Signature Moroccan Spa Pedicure.

Infused with a trio of argon, sweet almond and grape seed oil and just the right amount of orange peel, the body buff leaves your body revitalized and luminous.”

Made in the Maritimes “Representing Maritime Artisans at their finest.”

Bedazzled “I can’t just pick one item or line.

I’m like a kid in a candy shop.”

Village Green “I love Eileen Fisher! It’s a beautiful clothing line.”

“Kameleon jewellery; beautiful and versatile”

Limoncello Lifestyle

Shades Hair Salon

Finbars

“Best pub in HRM and the service second to none.”

Silken Lingerie

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riginally from New Brunswick, Eve Arsenault now calls Bedford home. Opening its doors in 2011, Shades (a full service salon) prides itself on a professional, welcoming environment and excellent customer care. Everyone deserves to be pampered which is why Shades caters to women, men and children.

“Whether I’m walking through the salon chatting with our clients, tending to their needs or spending time with our wonderful staff members it’s very important to me that clients see that I’m a hands-on owner. I love this industry and more than that, I love this business.”

JOIN US

Now leasing- G. Mark Allen 902.456.2575

“Sexy silk lingerie and wonderful personal service.”

“Our number one selling brand is Chantelle. We love the fine embroidery details of the 1908 Vendome.”

STYLE Diary

Chantelle: Vendôme

Shades Nail Salon

World Tea House

“Their service is impeccable, and the OPI colours are always vibrant and new.”

“We are always in need of a cup of tea! Our favorite for a busy day in the shop is After Ate; an energizing wintertime treat blend. Also, we adore Coconut Cocoa Pu-erh, an enchanting infusion of chocolate and coconut, it just makes us happy.”

SILKEN LINGERIE

Il Mercato The Village Green “Step into Italy, authentic flavor and the best gelato.”

“The only place we go for our favorite brands like Eileen Fisher, Tommy Bahama, Ralph Lauren and Saint James.”

People’s Turbine “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend” The staff will find you the perfect stone!

“Creations are colorful, fun and inspiring.”

orva Castellani opened Silken Lingerie in 1980 to offer women affordable and well-fitting lingerie.

Not just bras and panties, but stylish sleepwear, sexy bridal items and the latest in swimwear and accessories. “Fit is everything, it is the cornerstone of our business. Most women are wearing the wrong size in their bras. Wearing the wrong size can lead to back, shoulder and neck pain. A proper fit will relieve pain and boost confidence.” Morva and the ladies at Silken Lingerie, including store manager Debbie Chisholm who has been with the store since it opened, will work with you to find the right bra to compliment your figure. Therefore, you always look and feel your best.

JOIN US

Now leasing- G. Mark Allen 902.456.2575

AmAndA EliAsch Life of a Celebutante Photo Inesa De La Roche

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“The real things in life, you cannot touch. Anything you can touch is replaceable. Happiness is the real thing.

And nobody’s going to put a shadow on my sunshine.” ~ Amanda Eliasch’s opening line in her self-written and produced docudrama, The Gun, The Cake And The Butterfly.

By Lisa Drader-Murphy National Fashion and Celebrity Columnist, Fine Lifestyles magazine.

Photo Sue Siri Photography

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first met Amanda Eliasch while presenting my collection in Hollywood at the 2011 Golden Globe Awards celebrity lounge. She appeared confident and stylish, and had a playful, mischievous presence. She was introduced as an actor and writer from England who was researching for her column for Genlux Magazine, as their fashion editor.

A few weeks later I received an email containing her media coverage of her experience in our lounge and was thrilled to see her complimentary mention of our brief encounter. What intrigued me moreover, was her command of language and her wit and intelligence.

This prompted me to research her and what I discovered was a treasure trove of writings, including poetry and plays, as well as numerous interviews and stories highlighting her dramatic life as a bon vivant celebutante in Britain, New York City and Hollywood.

Our paths crossed again this year in Hollywood at a red carpet event during glamorous Oscar Week, where Eliasch enthusiastically described her recently released docudrama (a hybrid of documentary and directed drama).

The Gun, the Cake, and the Butterfly is an emotional rollercoaster account of Eliasch’s perception of events from her life, woven into a tale of truths, allegory and dreams. Eliasch has a larger-than-life persona and socializes with influencers

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“Vivienne Westwood and Pam Hogg are both shown because for me they are the true British designers. The rebels. From a child I have loved clothes, as a fashion editor I work with clothes, but I look like a punk nun,”

— Amanda Eliasch

In The Gun, The Cake, And The Butterfly, Amanda takes her viewer on a journey, beginning with recollections of her childhood, as a bright private school student, though often sad, teased and lonely. She bravely exposes early insecurities and her own abuse as a child.

She goes on to share her feelings and experiences around her often tormented relationships with men, including her own father and the father of her two grown sons, Johan Eliasch. To meet Eliasch, her presentation immaculately curated, dressed to couture perfection, it would seem in stark contrast that her alter ego allows for the darker, more intimate secrets of her life be exposed in such a public medium.

ABOVE Liberatum & Amanda Eliasch James Franco event- Tomas Auksas, Amanda Eliasch, James Franco, Pablo Ganguli

“When a woman confronts her loneliness, she’s free,”

—Amanda Eliasch, in The Gun, The Cake, and the Butterfly

including royalty, artists and celebrities.

Her movie alludes to and even appears to detail some of these encounters.

Born in Beirut, Lebanan, Eliasch was raised in Wiltshire Downs by her mother, Caroline Brown (Gilliat), an opera singer and teacher. Her father, Anthony Cave Brown, who was largely absent during her childhood, was a writer and foreign correspondent for The Daily Mail in Beirut, and penned the novels Bodyguard of Lies, Willliam J. Donovan, and Treason in the Blood. As the daughter of a writer, her “double-threat” literary and film-making talents come honestly as she is also the granddaughter of famed filmmaker

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Sidney Gilliat, best known for his work with Alfred Hitchcock.

After studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts, the Black and White Photography School and the Moscow Arts Theatre, Eliasch went on to assist fashion editor Rushka Bergman at L’uomo Vogue.

Considered one of Britain’s most fashionable, Eliasch is rarely seen not wearing couture designer clothes, almost exclusively in black. Among her favourites are famed British designers Vivienne Westwood and Pam Hogg, who make cameos in her movie.

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Eliasch’s glamorous, fashionable life, writings and the jarring transitions and imagery in her movie are fascinating.

What is more interesting, though, is her self-awareness and ability to weave anecdotes of her personal comedy and tragedy into a story that reminds us that things are not always as they appear; at our core we all feel pain and we all hunger for love.

Lisa Drader-Murphy is a Canadian fashion designer. She has been the creative and driving force behind the celebrated Turbine label, as well as the new and exclusive Lisa DraderMurphy limited edition collection, for almost 20 years. Her collections are sold at her four posh retail stores as well as select boutiques across Canada. Drader-Murphy is the founder of philanthropic efforts The Turbine Fund and Turbine India Project and has been invited to present her collections during numerous international events such as the Oscars, Golden Globes, Cannes Film Festival and TIFF.

Precious Artistry Bishop’s Landing | 6A-1477 Lower Water Street, Halifax 902.492.2947 | www.frida.ca |

Clearing the Fog and Bringing a Ray of Sunshine to

Mental Health Sufferers

By Melanie Furlong

M

ost people have experienced situations they have no control over. Sometimes illness, relationship issues, addictions, stress and other problems can lead to anxiety and depression — or what some call a mental fog.

Eastern Passage entrepreneur Tim Henneberry believes no one should have to go down a foggy path alone. He created Fog Off Clothing Co. in June 2014 to help raise funds for the Mental Health

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Foundation of Nova Scotia and bring awareness to mental health issues. The Fog Off Clothing Co. line includes men’s and women’s t-shirts, hoodies, hats, toques, pants, gym wear and accessories all featuring the easily recognizable Fog Off logo that was designed by Henneberry himself.

The company’s name is a play on words, which Fog Off Clothing Co. manager Anna Fryday says allows you to express yourself without being vulgar. “It also

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means to gain clarity and allow yourself to deal with foggy things in life like stress, anxiety and depression,” she says. “It seemed fitting since Eastern Passage is so foggy, too!”

In addition to the Eastern Passage store, the clothes are available online as well as at Guardian Pharmacy locations in Bedford and Elmsdale and in retail locations in Cavendish Beach, P.E.I. Five dollars from every purchase of more than $50 before taxes is donated directly

ABOVE Wyatt Sanford, National Reigning Champion Boxer

to the mental health foundation in the province where the sale took place. To date, Henneberry’s been able to donate more than $2,000 to the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia and $1,500 to the Mental Health Foundation of P.E.I. A new store opening this October in St. John’s will support the Canadian Mental Health Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Henneberry’s personal connections to those suffering from mental health issues inspired him to start Fog Off. “He realized how many people suffered and wanted to raise awareness, banish the stigma and help support some of the unique programs the Mental Health Foundation offers,” says Fryday.

The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia is a registered charity dedicated to improving the lives of Nova Scotians

living with mental illness and their loved ones, and increasing access to mental health education and awareness for all Nova Scotians. They raise funds for vital programs and services that help make this possible province-wide. Two of the many programs that need the foundation’s support include Paws Fur Thought, which provides service dog training and matching for first responders in Nova Scotians living with post traumatic stress disorder, and the Back to Our Roots Urban Farm.

To see the complete clothing line, visit www.fogoffclothing.com.

Fog Off Clothing Co. also supports various athletes in the community and beyond. These include Eastern Passage’s Fire Combat team and Wyatt Sanford, a champion teenaged boxer from Kennetcook.

As he works with these positive groups and athletes, Henneberry is building a network of people who support each other — and those in need.

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Fog Off Clothing Co. 24 Government Wharf Rd. Eastern Passage 902.221.2340 www.fogoffclothing.com

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Personal Image Hair Studio

New Owner, Exciting New Changes

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ast November, Elizabeth Roop became the new owner of Personal Image Hair Studio, an established salon in the Tantallon Plaza. It turned out to be the perfect setting for her to evolve as a business owner.

Having spent 24 years in the hair industry, doing everything from styling to teaching in cosmetology schools and even educating for Redken, Elizabeth says becoming a business owner felt like the right next move.

“Personal Image always had a very special feel about it,” she says. But why? Was it

the clients? The team? The services? The location? The answer, Elizabeth says, is simple: “All of those things and more. You get the same level of service, style and hair care you expect in any top city salon but without having to pay top city prices or fight for a parking space. Ours is very much a salon with a top class professional service and a local, intimate feel.”

Personal Image is evolving with client need and expectation, as well as with advancements in industry technologies.

Keeping up with these changes keeps things fresh and modern. Yet, respecting traditional client need is a key part of Elizabeth’s new ownership ethic. Regular Elizabeth Roop

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specialist training sessions ensure she and her team are always able to give clients the best of “the traditional” and “the new.”

The team brings warmth and experience to the salon. “It’s so wonderful to be surrounded by such talented and experienced super stylists every day,” says Elizabeth. What she and her team want most is to make a difference to their clients’ day. “Their support and loyalty go a long way to making the salon a true success.”

An exciting new offering from Personal Image is the Express Colour Service.

“Redken specifically chose us to be the first salon in the province to offer this,” says Elizabeth.

Time and money are two resources everyone wishes they had more of; now Personal Image can help you maintain professional colour longer between regular

appointments. An Express Colour visit offers five menu options all at $40 or less with an appointment time of less than an hour! You can schedule a touch-up appointment to have areas of concern taken care of by your favourite stylist, using the exact colour formula you always have.

What’s more convenient and cost effective than that? Say goodbye to athome touch-up kits that never quite match your colour and come in for some professional fast treatment — your sinks and walls will thank you.

Being part of this wonderful community means so much to Personal Image. They give back by helping local charities, such as The Marguerite Centre for Women in Timberlea and Adopt a Family in St. Margarets Bay. “Last year was our first annual Christmas fundraiser and it was a fantastic success,” says Elizabeth. “This

STYLE

year is set to be even better. With help from our caring clients we will be able to help make the holidays better for even more families in need.” They also support many other local charities and schools in their fundraising efforts.

If you have never been to Personal Image or it has been a while since you did, now is the ideal time to come and check out the salon. If you are already one of their valued clients, they would like to thank you. “We appreciate your business. It’s clients like you who make us love what we do,” says Elizabeth.

Personal Image Hair Studio 3650 Hammonds Plains Rd. Upper Tantallon | 902.826.1300 www.personalimagehairstudio.ca

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FL

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Restore &

REVITALIZE With Bio-identical Hormone Therapy

By Henny Buffinga

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s we age, we face the inevitable deterioration of mental and physical health that accompanies that. It’s natural, and it happens to all of us. But, there’s a way to alleviate some of the symptoms of aging and make you feel younger, refreshed and energetic.

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy replaces deficient hormones in your body with biologically identical ones.

As we age, our hormone levels decrease.

It’s the decreasing hormone levels that cause many of the health problems associated with aging. By topping up your hormone levels, you can potentially

avoid some diseases associated with aging, such as dementia, heart disease and stroke, as well as alleviating the symptoms of menopause in women and andropause in men.

Although the terms are similar, “bioidentical hormone replacement therapy” should not be confused with “hormone replacement therapy,” which was performed for many years. Hormone replacement therapy actually used chemicals, premarin and provera, that acted like hormones but were in fact synthetic alternatives. Because they were different enough from natural hormones, they could be patented with the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), and because the synthetic chemicals acted similarly to hormones in the body, they helped with the symptoms of menopause.

However, because they weren’t identical to the hormones that occur naturally in our bodies, they had side effects, such as

an increase in the risks of breast cancer, heart disease and stroke.

After realizing the negative effects of synthetic hormones were having in their patients, anti-aging doctors realized they should instead be using the exact, biologically identical hormones. In doing so, they found this new biologically identical hormone replacement therapy didn’t cause an increase in the risk of heart disease, breast cancer and stroke.

Further, they found when you have your hormones optimized up to the healthy physiological levels, it actually reduces the risk of all the diseases of aging.

Most people notice the symptoms of perimenopause, the period before menopause or andropause, in their 40s and 50s, which includes fatigue, low energy, trouble sleeping, loss of libido, weight gain, anxiety, depression and night sweats. When you measure the

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hormones of people experiencing these symptoms, the hormone levels are often lower than they would have been when they were at their physical peak.

When a client comes in for bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, anti-aging experts will assess, with saliva, urine or blood tests, the exact levels of each hormone at different times of the day and discuss how to optimize the levels of each hormone to bring the body back into balance. Within two to four months of treatment, many patients will notice a change in their symptoms of menopause and andropause, their energy levels, their skin tone and their overall appearance.

If you’re interested in learning more about bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, consult your doctor to see whether it’s right for you and seek out an anti-aging physician who specializes in this treatment.

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CAN YOU ANTIAGE? “Yes,” says Dr. Christian Hackshaw MD, owner of AdvanceMD Anti-Aging Medical clinic, “both on the inside and the outside.”

By Dr. Christian Hackshaw MD, AdvanceMD

W

e are the only clinic in Atlantic Canada specializing in AntiAging Medicine, a comprehensive program of health improving and age-reversing methods that include Bio-Identical Hormone replacement, nutrition and fitness, key supplement optimization and aesthetics.

“The results speak for themselves,” says Dr. Hackshaw. “Our patients are thrilled with how much more energy they have, how much weight they’ve lost, how much better they are sleeping, and how much younger they feel and look!”

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“My husband was skeptical at first, but when he saw what an amazing difference it made for me, he became a patient too!” J.L. Come see for yourself what a difference we can make, both to your inner health and outer look.

BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES Replacing and rebalancing your missing hormones with the same hormones you always had in your body (not conventional HRT) improves the health and disease resistance of your cells. This leads to resolution of hot flashes, improved sleep, more energy, better libido, reduction of anxiety and depression, improvements in hair and skin, less brain fog and a whole host of other benefits!

Botox/Facial Fillers – Soften wrinkles and replace volume loss without surgery.

Practically painless and with beautiful results.

NUTRITION/WEIGHT LOSS At AdvanceMD, we can help you lose the weight you want and keep it off! With multiple options to chose from, all utilizing the latest in medical knowledge, our patients have been able to meet their weight loss goals, whether the goal was 10 or 100 lbs.

FITNESS TRAINING At AdvanceMD you can get personal (one-on-one) fitness training in a private studio from an expert with a masters degree in kinesiology, for only $49/hour. Professional training with phenomenal results!

ANTI-AGING PRODUCTS AND SUPPLEMENTS AdvanceMD has a wide array of ‘industry best’ anti-aging products, nutraceuticals and supplements.

BEFORE

AFTER Exilis Elite Skin Tightening – An industry leader in radio frequency skin tightening, the Exilis Elite creates visibly smoother, tighter skin, with less wrinkles by stimulating new collagen production.

BEFORE

AFTER Vanquish – A revolution in body contouring. Vanquish literally melts fats cells around the mid-section and back to rid the body of those stubborn areas. It’s like liposuction without the surgery. Patients regularly see one to three inches of circumferential fat loss!

MEDICAL AESTHETICS With an array of options and an expert hand, I can guide you in reversing the signs of aging, helping you feel as good as you did many years ago. Come in for a free consultation and see what everyone is raving about.

AdvanceMD Anti-Aging Clinic 210 Waterfront Dr. #105 902.832.6000 www.advancemd.ca

BEFORE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

AFTER

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Natural Immune Boosters

2.

Dr. Tasia Lazaros B.Sc.(H), D.C. Healthy Link Chiropractic Wellness Ctr. Inc. 201–362 Lacewood Drive, Halifax 902.446.5465 drt@healthylinkwellness.ca Visit our new updated website! www.healthylinkwellness.ca

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all is upon us and for many that means cold and flu season. The body functions as a system; when one thinks of strengthening the immune system, one should think of adopting a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few helpful tips to optimize your immune system to help prevent colds and flus from taking hold.

1. Get adequate rest and sleep. Try to sleep at least seven to eight hours a night and try to maintain consistent times for going to bed and waking up.

Even though sleeping in on Sundays may be what you’re looking forward

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3.

4.

5.

to, it’s best if you get up at your regular waking time. If you tend to wake up frequently, try not to drink any fluids for at least an hour before bedtime and try to use your bed for only sleep and intimacy. TV watching, studying, reading etc. can all be done away from the bed in order to keep your mind less stimulated.

Wash your hands frequently with soap. Even though you may have used hand sanitizer, if you have access to soap and water — use it. Try not to rub or touch your nose and eyes without washing your hands. Also, many viruses are airborne so you may want to consider spritzing natural air sanitizers and using air purifiers.

Receive chiropractic adjustments.

Having an aligned spine actually helps your nerves and nervous system function better, which in turn helps your immune system. Also, stop ignoring your aches and pains.

Laugh, laugh and laugh. Having a positive attitude and making time to laugh and play actually is a powerful tool for boosting our immune systems and making us feel good. So go ahead, share a joke or two, or tickle your special someone.

Eat a healthy, unprocessed diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and low in saturated fat. A diet free of processed, refined sugars, additives and dyes is huge when it comes to looking at the immune system. The gut has a major immune relationship and taking

HEALTH & WELLNESS

probiotics helps to maintain normal gut flora. Garlic, organic honey, ginger and cayenne pepper are all known to help the immune system fight bacteria and viruses. Drink lots of water.

Water — not coffee, tea, pop and juice — is necessary to help flush the body of toxins. Try to drink enough water throughout your day.

6. Ensure you have enough vitamins and minerals from your diet. If not, you may want to supplement your diet, especially with zinc, B12 and vitamin D. A chiropractor, naturopath and/or other health care practitioner may be able to help determine what is best for you. A naturopath may recommend herbs and supplements such as oregano oil, astragulus, Japanese mushrooms, elderberry, Echinacea, ginseng and spirulina.

It’s best to talk to someone before taking supplements, as there could be restrictions on how long you can take them and possible interactions with other medications.

7. Try to be smoke and vapour free, alcohol free (or at least in moderation), get regular exercise and manage stress.

I have noticed patients who believe they always get sick in the fall really do get sick.

So, I would recommend following the above to adopt a healthy lifestyle and affirm to yourself daily that you are healthy, and cold and flu free.

WORLD’S MOST EFFECTIVE SHOCKWAVE TREATMENT

now at Bloom Laser Clinic

B

loom Laser Clinic believes everyone should have access to the science of beautiful skin.

At Bloom, they use the latest in technology to deliver affordable and noninvasive skin treatments.

What Causes Cellulite? The causes of cellulite are not well understood, but several theories exist: • Hormonal Factors: Many believe estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process.

• Genetics: Genes may predispose an individual to particular characteristics associated with cellulite, such as gender, race, a slow metabolism, the distribution of fat just underneath the skin and circulatory insufficiency.

• Diet: People who eat too much fat, carbohydrates or salt and too little fibre are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite.

Shock wave for pain management: Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a modern and highly effective treatment method for cellulite. Highenergy sound waves are introduced into the painful areas of the body.

With this innovative therapy approach, pathological alterations of tendons, ligaments, capsules, muscles and bones can be eliminated systematically. This painless method is the most successful way to eliminate pain for conditions such as frozen shoulder, golf and tennis elbow, muscle pain, tendonitis, shin splints and many more. *Health Canada and FDA approved. Pain management covered by most insurance companies Shochwave Cellulite Treatment Areas • Upper arrms • Stomach • Gluteal region • Thighs Dr. Amr Fathy

• Lifestyle Factors: Cellulite may be more prevalent in smokers, people who do not exercise and those who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time.

Aesthetic Laser consultant/instructor Board of Integrative Medicine (Canada & U.S.) American Board of Aesthetic Medicine Fellow of American Society of Laser in Medicine & Surgery

• Clothing: Underwear with tight elastic across the buttocks (limiting blood flow) may contribute to the formation of cellulite.

Bloom Laser clinic 902.488.7764 www.bloomlaserclinic.com bloomlaser BloomLaser

*Only machine of its kind in Halifax HEALTH & WELLNESS

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Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins and Venous Disease

Dr. Dion Davidson MD FRCSC FACS

Vascular and General Surgery, Critical Care Valley Medical Aesthetics 66 Exhibition Street, Kentville 902.678.2121 Toll Free: 888.471.8346 Fax: 902.678.0859 valleymedical@bellaliant.com www.vmedical.ca

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hronic venous disease affects millions of people, causing problems of the legs and feet — from little spider veins to painful large varicose veins and, at its worst, venous skin ulcers. Most patients come to our clinic somewhere in the middle; they have noticeable varicose veins and pain, and are rightfully concerned about the health of their legs.

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A combination of “weak” veins and the effects of gravity cause venous disease of the legs. Veins in the legs are supposed to conduct blood upward toward the heart, aided by one-way valves. Usually a family trait, many people develop weak vein walls and valves. Gravity causes venous blood to reflux back down the legs, which leads to even more venous pressure, dilating the veins further and worsening this vicious cycle. This all leads to enlarging varicose veins, pain and swelling, unhealthy skin and, for some, skin breakdown and venous ulcers.

The worst of the problem is usually lower in the legs and the ankles, since this is where gravity exerts the most pressure.

It makes sense that to treat this, one could try to physically redirect the venous blood from the legs back toward the heart the way it’s supposed to be going. Compression stockings are helpful because they accomplish just that.

The idea behind compression stockings is they apply graduated compression.

This means they are designed to be the strongest at the foot and ankle and less so as they go up the leg. This results in pressing the venous blood from the skin and weak superficial veins into deeper and healthier veins and back up toward the heart.

There are many studies showing that proper compression stockings improve circulation, reduce toxins in the blood, reduce swelling and improve pain and other symptoms. Patients in many studies report significantly improved quality of life.

We certainly find this to be true in our clinic where we’ve helped thousands of patients with venous disease of varying severities.

Graduated compression is almost indispensable in healing and in preventing

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recurrence of venous ulcers. The stockings are helpful after leg venous procedures in reducing problems such as bruising and improving the effectiveness of the treatment. Compression stockings also likely reduce the risk of deep vein clots (which can embolize to the lung, among other problems) after surgeries and during travel.

Varicose veins and other venous disease symptoms can be particularly severe in pregnancy. As the uterus enlarges, it applies more and more pressure on the large veins of the pelvis, which in turn leads to more blood pressure in the leg veins. Hormonal changes of pregnancy also weaken leg veins. Many pregnant women find compression stockings helpful to reduce swelling, varicosities and pain.

Compression stockings have a bit of a bad reputation among those less knowledgeable. Some people remember their grandma’s heavy, ugly stockings, which were almost impossible to get on and seemed terribly uncomfortable. But compression socks have come a long way. Modern stockings are designed to fit your particular leg dimensions — this is why getting measured and fitted by a true stocking expert is important and partly why the stockings feel better and are more effective than in the past. Newer engineering and materials make them much more breathable and comfortable.

There is also a variety of colours and designs available to suit everyone.

Modern graduated fitted compression stockings are the cornerstone of treatment for chronic venous insufficiency of the legs and, along with vein procedures, help many people with this disease.

This isisyour This your life… life…

make make it beautiful it beautiful

Locations in Locations in Kentville, Kentville and Greenwood Greenwood and Wolfville

At Light Touch Laser, we find the products and At Lightwe Touch we find products and services love Laser, and share themthe with you. services we love and share them with you.

• Laser Hair Removal • Laser Hair Removal • Weight Loss • Weight Loss • Professional Lash Extensions • Professional Lash Extensions • Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup • Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup • Silkpeel Dermalinfusion Skin Treatment • Silkpeel Dermalinfusion Skin Treatment • EndyMed Skin Tightening • EndyMed Skin Tightening • Skincare • Skincare

Skin and Bodycare

Why Wouldn’t you!

902.678.2829 | 50 A Webster Street, Kentville 902.678.2829 Webster Street, Kentville 902.765.BODY || 50 780ACentral Avenue, Greenwood 902.765.BODY Central Greenwood 902 697-2829| |780 Suite 22-360Avenue, Main St, Wolfville www.lighttouch.ca www.lighttouch.ca

ABOVE: Dr. Erin McLeod, Dr. Toby Mandelman, Dr. Erin Sheppard and Dr. Avila Cox

BEDFORD EYE CARE Takes the Lead in Dry Eye Disease Introducing Lipiflow Technology to the Maritimes

D

ry eye disease affects more than three million people in Canada. Symptoms include burning, watery, gritty eyes and fluctuating vision. Historically, dry eye was not taken seriously and was usually treated with lubricating drops. These drops provide some symptomatic relief, but do not address the root cause of dry eye or stop the progression of the disease.

The doctors at Bedford Eye Care have used numerous treatments for dry eye patients in the past, but found many patients continued to worsen, finding it uncomfortable to enjoy activities such as using computers and reading.

“We were getting frustrated with our current therapies and were looking for a treatment that would actually treat dry eye disease and prevent the

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patient from getting worse,” says Dr. Mandelman, who first discovered that new technology was on the horizon.

“We watched the development of the Lipiflow technology with interest and decided to invest in the instrumentation after Lipiflow was approved by the FDA and Health Canada and was proven to benefit almost 90 per cent of dry eye patients.”

What is Dry EyE DisEasE? Dry eye can develop from either a deficiency in the watery (aqueous) layer of the tears and/or a deficiency in the oily layer of the tears. Aqueous deficiencies are treated with a variety of treatments, including Restasis drops.

However, 86 per cent of patients with dry eye have a deficiency of the oily layer of the tears. The oily layer is produced by glands in the eyelid called meibomian

HEALTH & WELLNESS

glands. Over time, the meibomian glands can become blocked, resulting in a deficiency of oil in the tears.

This is known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, or MGD. Without oil, the aqueous layer constantly evaporates, causing a never-ending cycle of irritated and even watery eyes. The condition is chronic and progressive.

“Eventually, the glands can shrink and disappear entirely, leaving the patient quite miserable with limited treatment options,” says Dr. McLeod.

According to Dr. Cox, who led an in-depth investigation of the Lipiview instrument before making the purchase, they are excited to have the Lipiview technology that allows them to document the gland damage and measure the amount of oil in the tears to see if the patient is not blinking fully. “Determining if patients

“The results I’ve had following the Lipiflow treatment have been tremendous. I am no longer suffering from dry eye, feeling like I have sandpaper in my eyes and having to blink several times just to get a clear image.

I didn’t realize how much more comfortable I could feel.

Thank you.” – Patient

are partial blinkers is quite important as the oil in the glands can only be released during a full blink.”

“I had the LipiFlow treatment three months ago and what a marvelous difference it has made. Before, my eyes bothered me all the time, even though I used lubricating drops, and now they don’t bother me at all.

They just feel good. They are so much better.” – Patient

“The treatment is comfortable and only takes about 12 minutes to administer.

It’s amazing how much better your eyes will feel once the treatment has taken effect,” says Dr. Sheppard, who suffered from dry eye disease and had her own eyes treated.

trEatiNG MGD With LiPiFLOW Once we determine that a patient has MGD, the patient is treated with Lipiflow. This instrument unblocks the meibomian glands, restoring gland function over time as the patient begins to naturally expel their own oil again.

Bedford Eye Care 36 Duke Street 902.835.2020 info@bedfordeyecarecentre.ca www.bedfordeyecarecentre.ca Follow us on

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Normal Eyelid (meibomain) Glands Meibomian glands produce the oils needed for a healthy tear film

Gland (oil) Dropout MGD occurs when the meibomain glands become blocked. if this blockage is left untreated the glands will drop out entirely.

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25 Years of TRANSFORMING SKIN Photos Bruce Jollimore and Mike MacKinnon

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he Summit-Skin Care & Hair Removal, known to many as The Summit Spa has been transforming skin of locals, celebrities and visitors for 25 years! This anniversary is a milestone in today’s everchanging service/retail environment and a huge accomplishment. It’s a testament they are doing something very, very well.

When recently asked what has been the secret to their long term success, Susan Alward, The Summit’s owner and founder, states an unwavering commitment to education for both the staff and clients. “Our mission statement is Professional. Educational.

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Results. Relaxation and we take this to heart.” She also acknowledges that skin care has always been the main focus and specialty of The Summit for all 25 years. Browsing around their retail store is certainly evident of their focus on skin care with five professional skin care brands, plus two brands specifically for the skin on your feet! Even for body skin they get serious with products for every issue.

Be prepared to get exactly what you want and need for great skin!

When it comes to professional skin treatments. The Summit offers a huge array of advanced treatments for every

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skin concern imaginable. “We work hard to keep up with the latest ingredients and equipment. Education is essential to us for developing and delivering the best results safely. We love to develop new treatments and each new treatment has to meet our strict standards of safety first and results second,” says Alward.

One of their treatments that has been getting a lot of buzz and great reviews is their “Signature Skin Transformation Treatment” launched on their birthday last year. “We are very excited about this treatment. The results are amazing for so many skin concerns. It was developed by combining five treatments, whose results

Signature Skin Transformation Treatment The five combined treatments are: Cavitation uses sound waves to spin water very quickly to loosen and remove dead cells, dirt and oil. It’s a gentle and soothing way to treat blackheads, acne, rosacea and enlarged pores.

LED (Light Emitting Diodes) uses wavelengths of light energy that are proven treatments for inflamed skin, acne, wrinkle reduction and pigmentation reduction.

Sonophoresis is a device that uses ultrasound to penetration deeply using ingredients that normally cannot effectively reach the skin layers needed. It creates pathways for safe delivery for longer lasting results.

we loved, into one mega skin treatment!” explains Alward. “Combining pieces of equipment or treatments can be tricky.

For our Signature Skin Transformation Treatment the special sequence of devices, techniques and ingredients actually enhance the results of each separate treatment!”

With the success of 25 years in the skin care industry behind them and the momentum that passion, education and continued development brings, The Summit is surely the company to watch for the next 25.

ABOVE: Katie Bell, Master Clinical Esthetician, demonstrates the treatment above and has provided the panel to the right.

The Summit-Skin Care & Hair Removal 5495 Spring Garden Rd., Suite 101 902.423.3888 www.summitspa.ca

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Micro Current uses a very mild electrical current to restore skin cells natural charge.

When a cell has been damaged due to environmental causes, its electrical current is adversely effected, restricting the flow of nutrients into the cell and waste products out. This Micro Current phase promotes repair and healing, making it exceptional for tired, injured and aging skin.

Chemical Peels used in this treatment are highly effective, customized acids that are gentle on the skin when combined with the other treatments. Chemical peels are excellent skin therapy treatments for acne, brightening, pigment spots, rosacea, rough skin and wrinkles.

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Unwanted Facial Hair Concerns For Men For back or chest hair, you can simply wear a shirt if it bothers you; ear and nose hair is more difficult to hide. No matter how much you loved your uncle with the hairy ears, you don’t want to start looking like him when you’re 30 or even 65.

Susan Alward Master Clinical Esthetician, Electrologist & Laser Technician The Summit - Skin Care & Hair Removal 5495 Spring Garden Road, Suite 101 Halifax, Nova Scotia 902.423.3888 www.summitspa.ca @1MarliBrown

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any men have concerns about losing their hair as they get older, but they are often caught off guard when they start to notice unwanted hair growth. For many years when men developed unwanted hair in their ears, nose, eyebrows, back and front of their neck, they simply did nothing or trimmed/ shaved it. The trends are changing quickly; more and more men are seeking the permanent solutions women have been using for decades.

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For many, the trend toward permanent hair removal for beard lines, back and front of the neck is about keeping a well-groomed appearance. A beard line that creeps too close to the eyes or too far down the neck is something some men don’t like the look of. Shaving for these hirsute men does not solve the problem, as you can still see the dark shadow of the beard no matter how close the shave. The problem with ingrown hairs has also created a move toward permanent hair removal. For the nape of the neck, scraggly hair growth means either visiting your barber on a weekly basis or becoming adept at safely and effectively using electric hair trimmers to create a nice even line.

Here are some of the most often asked questions about treating these areas permanently.

What methods create a permanent solution that really works? Laser, if the hair is dark enough but the skin colour is not too dark or tanned. Electrolysis works for everyone, but particularly for hard to reach areas of the ear, white or light coloured hair or darker skin tones. Often a combination of the two

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methods is used. For this reason, it is best to go to an Electrologist who also specializes in laser hair removal.

How long will it take? On average, treatments are once a month and take 15-30 minutes depending on the method, area and amount of hair. Most areas take approximately a year of regular treatments to complete.

What is the process like? During each treatment, most of the visible hairs are removed with either laser or electrolysis.

This consists of heat applied to the hair root to destroy hair-growing cells. Each treatment gets easier as there are fewer hairs each month.

Does it hurt? Yes, a little or a lot depending on the area and the individual’s own tolerance.

For those with lower pain tolerances, topical anesthetics can be applied.

Will I have to mortgage my house to get it done? No. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to quote an exact cost as each person has a different amount of unwanted hair. A good guide is the cost of a 30-minute electrolysis treatment, which is $60.

To learn more about electrolysis and laser and what is right for you, visit a professional Electrologist and read more at summitspa.ca/articles/permanenthair-removal-which-method-choose and summitspa.ca/articles/electrolysis.

In the Flow: Elements of

VINYASA YOGA

By Courtney Tait

I

f you have taken a yoga class of any style, you likely noticed the repetition of the Sanskrit word “vinyasa.” Broken down to its roots, “vi” means “in a special way” and “nyasa” means “to place.” Literally, vinyasa is “to place in a special way.”

In the context of yoga, what you’re placing in that special way is your body, of course. While all forms of yoga take care to position the body in specific postures, Vinyasa Yoga is a style that emphasizes the flow of these postures. Each movement connects to the next, creating a dynamic sequence that moves in cohesion with the rhythmic flow of breath.

At the heart of a Vinyasa class are sun salutations. These sequences, which include a standing pose, forward bend, lunges, and downward and upward dogs, warm up

the body in preparation for more intense postures. Upward movements are paired with inhalations, while downward movements are done on exhale. An energizing way to start the day, “saluting the sun” invigorates the body, calms the mind and gets you breathing deeply.

While many styles of yoga feature dynamic sequences such as sun salutations, some of these — such as Ashtanga and Bikram — stick to a specific set of postures that are repeated in the same order, every class. Vinyasa Yoga, by contrast, varies from class to class and teacher to teacher. The pace could be slow or fast, include time for meditation or chanting, feature a couple sun salutations or a set of ten, or emphasize alignment along with breath. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys a little variation, Vinyasa will help you find your flow.

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Your Partners in Vision West Halifax Optometry

New patients are always welcome at West Halifax Optometry! Open for four years in the beautifully restored Windsor & Almon Building on Windsor Street, with free parking across the street at The Halifax Forum, West Halifax Optometry and Optical is a full-service optometry clinic. Our three doctors — Jeff BuchananDorrance, Mike Duffey and Laura McMullen — have a combined 60 years of experience and use state-of-the-art refractive, diagnostic and imaging technologies and techniques to ensure your eyes

and vision are thoroughly examined and expertly treated. We deliver personalized solutions and recommendations for your vision and health concerns in a friendly and communicative manner.

The opticians at West Halifax Optometry are experts at helping you find eyewear that suits your vision needs, as well as your lifestyle and personality.

See your best and look your best this fall with your partners in vision, West Halifax Optometry and Optical.

2828 Windsor St., Halifax | 902.406.2020 | www.westhalifaxoptometry.ca |

See and Look Your Best this Fall

aside in the bliss of the warm summer season. It’s time to take stock, as well as stock up, on harvest goodies and drink in the autumn colours.

Dr. Jeff Buchanan-Dorrance Optometrist & CEO West Halifax Optometry Group 2828 Windsor St., Halifax 902.406.2020 www.westhalifaxoptometry.ca

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lthough there are many exciting things to see and do around Halifax in summer, fall offers a new slate of opportunities. Interspersed amongst your fall sights and events are the inevitable chores and errands that come with the change of season. In the coming months, we will get kids off to school, wrap up the gardens, prepare homes and cottages for winter and firm up plans for travel and gatherings.

Time to catch up! Fall is a time for lists and taking care of the little details pushed

Be prepared. Take some time to think about your vision this fall. We take our healthy eyes and clear vision for granted, but a routine checkup is always a good idea.

For growing children, an eye examination can uncover potential vision problems that can stand in the way of their learning process. Up to 80 per cent of learning in school is visual or has a significant visual component. As younger kids and most elementary school-aged children have no frame of reference to know that their vision isn’t clear, vision changes can manifest as behavioural problems and feelings of inadequacy for many learning tasks. If vision correction is prescribed, we also need to catch up with expected changes as kids grow and change throughout their school years and through young adulthood.

As children get older, begin to drive and contemplate post-secondary education and careers, demands on vision increase.

In some universities, class sizes can dictate large classrooms where a student may be further away from lecturers,

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projected lecture notes or note boards.

Increased computer and smartphone use and night driving can also cause comfort issues, as well as highlight the need for fine-tuning glasses or contact lenses.

As we get older, we become more susceptible to eye disorders and diseases related to ageing and other medical conditions. With the state of imaging technologies available to your optometrist, it is possible to detect and act upon problems before you ever experience vision changes or loss.

Persistent irritation, redness, pain, inflammation and sudden vision changes or loss are more obvious reasons to see an optometrist and, if necessary, be referred to an ophthalmologist. Please don’t leave these sorts of symptoms until the end of summer!

Just like seeing your dentist or family physician, a visit to your optometrist is a useful and essential health checkup.

So, we wave goodbye to summer and slide into the season of fall with all its colours and checklists. But when it’s time to shift gears and take care of ourselves and our own, consider checking up on the eyes that allow you to take in everything the coming season has to offer. Enjoy!

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Get the

Royal Treatment When You Shop For Your Baby

By Melanie Furlong Photos Bruce Jollimore

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hether you’re a new or seasoned parent, grandparent or family friend, nothing compares to the excitement of expecting a new baby.

The experienced and knowledgeable staff at The Royal Diaperer share that excitement with customers every day, and no one is better prepared to help you welcome that bundle of joy than they are.

From helping you choose the perfect stroller and showing you how to install your new car seat to fitting you in a nursing bra in your third trimester or providing you with the top selection of nursery furniture in Atlantic Canada, the staff at The Royal Diaperer has the training and experience to do it all.

Owner Joyce McCully opened The Royal Diaperer 26 years ago and has seen many changes in the industry in the last two and a half decades. Some of the most dramatic changes have been in strollers.

“A big-wheeled jogger-style stroller like we have from Bugaboo was unheard of in my day,” she says. “They can go through anything from sandy beaches to snow.

And with their beautiful designer fabrics they’re much more fun.”

Bugaboo, the brand Princess Kate — one of the world’s most famous moms — uses, is just one of the high quality and innovative brands The Royal Diaperer carries in its three-level Sackville store.

Others include Canadian-made furniture lines Natart, which is Greenguard Gold Certified, and Dutailier, with its top-ofthe-line gliders that will help get baby to sleep in minutes. The award-winning Canadian-made car seats from Clek and stylish bedding from Sweet Kyla are popular with new parents too.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

“Our goal is to help customers buy the right products for their lifestyle,” says Corie McCully. “We ask them questions to find what best fits their budget and way of life. We want all our customers to leave knowing they made the best purchase.”

Whether you’re at home or out and about, their Italian-made line of Peg Perego car seats, strollers and highchairs are personal favourites.

“We don’t carry a product in here that we don’t stand behind,” says McCully.

Customers appreciate the personal service staff give them no matter if they’re trying to find three car seats to fit across their vehicle or buying their child a comfortable pair of shoes.

Store manager Corie McCully recently

had a customer whose daughter liked drinking from a sippy cup with a straw, but either tipped it up to drink and couldn’t get anything from the bottom or spilled liquid everywhere. “She needed a weighted straw that moved,” she says.

“We found that for her and the customer emailed later thanking us.”

Getting to know their customers, watching their children grow and knowing they’ve helped people find the best products they could ever need or want is satisfying for the McCullys.

The Royal Diaperer delivers across HRM and specializes in custom gift baskets.

Gift registry for baby showers is always a great idea so friends and family can choose from a list of what you need or want. Gift cards are also available. Visit their website or Facebook to view the great selection of products before you come into the store.

The Royal Diaperer 425 Sackville Dr., Lower Sackville 902.252.3780 sales@royaldiaperer.com royaldiaperer.com

TOP RIGHT L-R Joyce McCully, Elena Keeping, Ann Stewart, Rayna Bonang, Corie McCully HEALTH & WELLNESS

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THE HALIFAX ANIMAL HOSPITAL THAT’S

LEADING THE PACK

By Melanie Furlong Photos Stephen Jess

S

itting in the waiting room of Carnegy Animal Hospital, you’re bound to meet some of the charming clientele that frequent the place: cats, dogs, rabbits, birds and small animals of every stripe and feather. The owners chat amiably with each other and the welcoming reception staff while they wait to see one of the talented veterinarians or groomers.

Owner Dr. Eric Carnegy is celebrating 20 years with his busy animal hospital and says the waiting room is one of his favourite places. “It’s like the UN,” he says. “We get all walks of life here and no matter who they are, they love to talk about their pets.”

Working with a wide variety of people and animals has always been important to Dr. Carnegy. He came to Halifax in 1977 after graduating as a veterinarian from Guelph University. At the time, he was looking for a multi-practice and worked with both small and large animals, including the horses in the Standardbred industry, detecting lameness both at the former Sackville Downs and the Cape Breton raceway.

He opened Carnegy Animal Hospital in 1995 to pursue a quiet practice on his own. But the hospital grew over the years and

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now he has four talented veterinarians and a support staff of 20 working alongside him.

Dr. Carnegy’s aim has always been to make his patients and their owners feel like they are part of a warm and caring family. He is thrilled so many of the hospital’s clients tell him what a great experience they have with his staff. He says, “I get so many compliments, we must be doing something right. I’m very fortunate to have hired people who make me look good.”

The entire staff at Carnegy Animal Hospital has worked hard to achieve AAHA accreditation, putting it in the top 12 to 15 per cent of all animal hospitals in the United States and Canada. To be eligible for AAHA accreditation, hospitals must be evaluated on approximately 900 standards that assess safety protocols, equipment, veterinary knowledge and other key areas. The organization makes an on-site visit and goes through every aspect of the hospital’s function.

“The standards are evolving all the time,” says Dr. Carnegy, “and they are getting more difficult to meet. But applying for AAHA accreditation keeps us on our toes and forces us to continually rise to higher standards.”

HEALTH & WELLNESS

In 2015, Carnegy Animal Hospital also achieved accreditation as a Cat Friendly Practice, meeting the standards of the American Association of Feline Practitioners to demonstrate their dedication to increasing the quality of care felines receive.

One of the hospital’s newest services is www.myvetstore.ca/carnegy, a website where clients can refill pet medications and shop from their selection of more than 2,000 products including pet food, toys, treats, supplements and more.

Some of their most recent equipment upgrades include new software for digital imaging, which has enhanced the quality of imaging and increased their ability to transfer images for review or certification.

They’ve also upgraded their mobile cold laser therapy, which can be used for any kind of inflammation, ear or skin infection, for example.

Until recently, Carnegy Animal Hospital had patients come in for laser treatment.

But when an animal is in an acute situation, the cold laser is more effective when used

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several times a day. The hospital now offers a Rent My Laser program. Pet owners can be taught to use the laser in a prescribed treatment protocol so their pet’s condition is resolved more quickly. Some of the benefits include: no medication is introduced to the animal, it’s non-invasive, side-effect free and easy to use.

Seeing an animal recover from an illness or injury, especially when the prognosis is not good, is the most fulfilling thing for Dr. Carnegy and his staff. He recalls a cat that was sent in by another veterinary office for a second opinion. It was extremely sick and could hardly move due to a perforated bowel. “Within 30 minutes we had the cat in surgery and put everything back together, although I cautioned the owners before and after that the prognosis was not good,” recalls Dr. Carnegy. “They were so excited to come in and visit him every day and see his progress.”

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That kind of success is so exciting it gives the entire hospital staff a huge shot of adrenaline. “It’s like a super boost,” he says. “It just makes our day.”

Since he started practicing in Halifax 38 years ago, Dr. Carnegy has enjoyed many such positive experiences. And in the process, he has also enjoyed getting to know many families through their animals. In some cases, he is now looking after the third and fourth generations of families and their pets.

“Whether it’s skill or good luck, I have been able to practice good veterinary medicine and get along well with the pet owners too,” he says.

Dr. Carnegy and his staff are passionate about animals and want the pets and their owners to remember the hospital in a positive way. “We like to get to know our families and have a chat at every visit. It makes the whole experience more meaningful.”

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Hospital manager Mary-Clare McLaren has worked with Dr. Carnegy for 31 years and says several of their staff have been with them for more than 25 years.

“I think this says a lot about our practice,” says McLaren.

One of the biggest challenges Dr. Carnegy has faced in his career has been leaving the hospital, and his patients, for extended periods of time. After growing up on a farm, where caring for animals and family life are inseparable, it has taken him many years to become comfortable with the concept of taking vacations that don’t involve courses or meetings.

But when he is at work, he’s passionate about looking after the most important animals in the world: yours.

Carnegy Animal Hospital 7 Langbrae Dr. Halifax 902.457.1575 carnegyanimalhospital.com

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EXPERT ADVICE Is Your Child Thumb Sucking?

Dr. Magda Barnard B.Sc., D.D.S. (with distinction), M.Sc. (Orthodontics), F.R.C.D(C) Bedford Orthodontics Suite 206, Sunnyside Mall 1595 Bedford Highway Bedford 902.835.6531 www.bedfordortho.com

Changes in bite and position of teeth can be irreversible to a variable degree after the age of six and once the permanent teeth are in. Children who continue to suck their thumbs past this age tend to have a large overjet, where the top front teeth are a significant distance in front of the bottom front teeth. The top front teeth tend to be tipped forward, the bottom tipped back. Also, the upper jaw may become narrow and a crossbite can develop on one or both sides of the back teeth. A crossbite is when the top teeth sit inside the bottom teeth. The crossbite of the back teeth develops from the negative pressure the thumb sucking causes as it constricts the upper jaw.

Why do children suck their thumbs? It is a comforting, soothing habit based on the suckling instinct, and it can be genetic. We have seen several families where children suck their thumbs and the parents admit to doing the same when they were kids. The oldest patient I know who sucked their thumb was 42!

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f your child is sucking their thumb, you are not alone. Some babies are even seen sucking their thumbs in the womb during an ultrasound! But over time, this persistent habit can cause changes in the bite and teeth. When should you worry, and what can be done about it?

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I would suggest starting to “wean” your child from thumb sucking early, around age three or four. If you have success earlier that’s great, but it is typical for weaning to be difficult before age three.

Positive reinforcement works well; we suggest rewarding children whenever they do not suck their thumb, and then explain why it’s a bad habit. After all, it affects the teeth and jaws and the thumb brings a lot of germs into the mouth.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Sometimes a reward program can help with weaning. You and your child can decide together what the reward should be. It could be a game, toy or an activity — anything your young one is excited about and wants. You can then make coupons out of paper; this alone can be a fun activity with your child on a rainy afternoon. Whenever your child is sucking their thumb they lose a coupon and whenever they do not suck their thumb, at a time when they usually do, they receive a coupon. A certain number of coupons and voila, they get the item/ activity they want and are on their way to forgetting their habit.

For a lot of kids we find the reward program works great, but it is still important to be supervised by an orthodontist. That way if the habit goes on too long, other help can be implemented. One such option is a habit breaker. A habit breaker is a fixed orthodontic appliance with a ring on one upper right and one upper left molar and a little smooth wire that passes across the roof of the mouth from each ring.

The wires connect to loops that prevent the thumb from seating completely.

Habit breakers need to be temporarily glued to the teeth and can be removed approximately three months after the habit ceases. They are a comfortable way to stop a stubborn thumb habit.

Before you know it, thumb sucking will be a thing of the past!

FL

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

CCMA

AWARDS

RETURN TO THE EAST COAST

By Trina Annand CCMA Awards photos courtesy of Grant W. Martin Photography

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

ABOVE Dean Brody

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O

n a continent often dominated

by American culture, the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) has been a leader in promoting Canadian music. This year, the coveted position of host city to the CCMA Awards and Country Music Week went to Halifax for the first time in more than 30 years. On Sept. 10, the city will welcome country music’s biggest names and labels for a star-studded celebration.

“Since our founding in 1976, our goal has been to educate, elevate and celebrate Canadian Country music,” says CCMA president Don Green. “The industry has produced some huge stars and we are always looking for new ways to further bolster our community.” With 1,600 members, the CCMA is an ever-growing force in the industry.

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Forty-one awards will be handed out during Country Music Week, eight of which will be at the televised gala hosted by Jessi Cruickshank of Canada’s Smartest Person. “I am so excited to be hosting the CCMA Awards. I have long admired country music artists and secretly wish I was one,” says Cruickshank. “I guarantee a wild night filled with laughs, surprises and men in tight jeans.”

New this year to the CCMA is their regionalization of the popular Discovery Program for up and coming talent.

This year the association rolled out the Discovery Program for Atlantic Canada as a pilot endeavour. During the program, six competitors are selected from a field of hundreds of rising stars. At the end of the rigorous competition, Jason Benoit from Newfoundland was announced this

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year’s winner. As part of his prize, Benoit will perform two shows at Country Music Week. “The Discovery Program is as much about discovering new talents as it is about introducing the next generation to the association. The CCMA is an important support system for artists at all levels,” says Green.

A relative newcomer to the CCMA, Jess Moskaluke has received a great deal of recognition over the last year, starting with her 2014 CCMA Female Artist of the Year win. At just 25, she already has a gold record under her belt and is the first female Canadian country solo artist to achieve gold record status since Shania Twain, an impressive feat for an artist who started as a YouTube sensation.

Moskaluke is nominated this year for multiple CCMA awards, including Female Artist and Album of the Year for her latest

OPPOSITE TOP LEFT Jessi Cruickshank THIS PAGE TOP Jess Moskaluke

release Light Up The Night. For the singer, community is the best part of the CCMAs. “More than anything, I am looking forward to the reunion, Canadian country music is a big family. It is exciting to get together and celebrate our victories.”

This fall, Moskaluke will be touring with Paul Brandt and Dean Brody across the country. By comparison a veteran of the CCMA, Brody has travelled internationally, even producing work in country music’s mecca, Nashville. The artist is a perennial favourite at the CCMA Awards. “I can be really hard on myself, so it is encouraging to be nominated by people in the industry.

I have been very fortunate to have worked with some amazing people and be recognized for my work,” says Brody.

According to the multi CCMA and Juno award winner, the CCMA serves a vital role. “We are so close to our neighbours, we are inundated with American cultural influence. It’s important that we celebrate our differences.”

A blend of pop, rock, folk and everything in between, Canadian country music has a different flavour from coast to coast.

“Country music has a lot of branches and appeals to a lot of people because of it; it’s a very relatable genre,” says Green. “On the East Coast, there is a rich songwriting tradition with figures such as Hank Snow, Anne Murray, Rita McNeil and the Rankin Family.” This year’s Country Music Week will see a return of the kitchen party with performances from Tim Hicks, Wes Mack and many others.

After country music celebrities stroll down the green carpet on the final night for the CCMA Awards Show, fans will get to enjoy performances by Johnny Reid, Jess Moskaluke, Dean Brody, Kira Isabella, Paul Brandt and Autumn Hill to name a few. “Performing is really where I started, even before I was writing. I love being able to connect with my fans in such a real way,” says Moskaluke. Whether country music fans are in the audience or glued to the TV at home, this year’s CCMA Awards show promises to be better than ever.

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Bordeaux An International Endeavour Creates a French Treasure

By Cheryl Doherty

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WINES TO TRY

The wines of Bordeaux are among the most valued and valuable on the planet, and Bordeaux connoisseurs have been known to spend a lifetime studying the region. Many people don’t realize, however, how the rise and success of Bordeaux was a truly international process, beginning as many things in Europe did, with the British.

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hen Eleanor of Aquitaine married the soon to be Henry II in 1152, Bordeaux wines were served at the wedding. The British public felt if Bordeaux was good enough for the king, it was good enough for them, and Bordeaux became a sensation in Britain as shiploads of claret were imported. By the 1600s, this rise in trade developed the need for infrastructure, with négociants moving wines throughout Europe. Many of these middlemen were Dutch, who realized by draining the very swampy land of Bordeaux they could create not only shipping channels, but also additional rich, arable land perfect for growing even more grapes.

After the defeat of Catholic James II by William of Orange in 1690, many Irish fled their homeland for Bordeaux and became involved in the wine trade, first as négociants and later as wine makers.

Fourteen wine Chateaux are attributed to the settlement of the Irish in Bordeaux, where they are now known as the “wine geese.” These include two of the most notable Chateaux, Leoville Barton and Chateaux Lynch-Bages.

Browsing the shelves of any French section of a wine store can be intimidating, Bordeaux in particular.

Many of the high-end wines are out of financial reach to the average consumer.

A bit of knowledge, however, can assist

you in choosing a good Bordeaux without taking out a loan.

The region is mainly divided in two by the Gironde River. The gravelly left bank of the river grows primarily Cabernet Sauvignon based wines, with smaller amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and a couple of others. The great appellations of the left include Medoc, Margaux, Pauillac and St. Julien, the historical claret of Britain. The right bank of the river is primarily clay-based, perfect for growing the most expensive Merlot-based wines in the world. St. Emilion and Pomerol top the list of left bank appellations.

Though famous for reds, Bordeaux also produces Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon Blanc wines — known simply as white Bordeaux — as well as a heavenly nectar called Sauternes, a costly but well-worththe-money sweet wine. Unlike its cousin Burgundy, the cost of a good Bordeaux tends to be based on the estate rather than the vineyard where it is grown. An exception to this is the label “Bordeaux Supérieur AOC.” This designation is awarded on a yearly basis to any red or white Bordeaux grown of superior quality.

Though not considered prestigious, these wines are often a terrific value to the consumer and tend to be easily available.

A couple of fine selections are listed right.

Cheers!

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Chateau Lagnet 2012 Bordeaux Supérieur AOC Brilliant ruby in colour with aromas of cassis and strawberries. Modern in style with a supple mouth feel and a long, fruity finish.

60 per cent Merlot, 40 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, 13 per cent vol Harvest Wines & Spirits, $16.99

Chateau Castenet 2011 Bordeaux Supérieur AOC On the nose it releases vivid hints of red berries and spices. On the palate, this fruity freshness is still present and in good balance with the tannins.

70 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 per cent Merlot, 13 per cent vol Harvest Wine & Spirits, $19.99

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Food & Wine Pairing BOEUF BORDELAISE

Its proximity to the sea makes Bordeaux famous for fish and shellfish dishes, but at its heart, Bordeaux is a carnivore. A simple dish of roasted beef and bone marrow, with a sauce made with local wine, shallots, butter, fresh herbs, some steamed floury potatoes, fall vegetables and, of course, more Bordeaux, makes for a hearty and satisfying autumn meal.

2 8oz rib steaks 2 beef bone marrows 10 fl oz Bordeaux, or other strong red wine 2 large shallots sliced thin into rings 5 tbsp butter 2 fl oz. rich beef broth 1 tbsp fresh thyme, minced Salt and fresh ground pepper Take the steak meat out of the refrigerator 20 minutes in advance. Dry meat and season liberally with salt and pepper.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Put bone marrows, cut side up, on a foil-lined baking sheet or in an ovenproof skillet.

Cook until marrow is soft and has begun to separate from the bone, about 15 minutes. Stop before marrow begins to drizzle out. Keep warm, but set aside.

Pour the red wine into a pan, bring to boil and let it reduce for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Peel the shallots, chop finely and let them sweat over low heat with a bit of salt in another saucepan with two tbsp of butter without browning; salt; pour the red wine; add the beef broth; bring to a simmer and cook five minutes over low heat; add thyme; season with salt and pepper and set aside.

Cook the steaks in a hot pan with a bit of butter until done to likeness and leave to rest for 10 minutes while finishing the sauce.

Remove beef fat from the pan while leaving the brown bits from the steaks intact. Pour in the red wine and shallot mixture and warm to a simmer. Remove from heat; add in the juices from the rested meat and whisk in remaining two tbsp of butter in small pieces until well integrated. Sauce will be shiny and smooth.

Put the meat on warm plates, add salt, pepper and the sauce. Serve with boiled or steamed potatoes and autumn vegetables.

Wine Pairing: Chateau de Pitray Cotes de Castillon - Bordeaux A nose of cassis and kirsch.

Rounded, fruity, full, long and elegant with fine tannins, this is the top wine of Pitray. An outstanding value.

Cristall Wine Merchants $22.43

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Le Bistro By Liz Le Bistro not only offers fresh delicious dishes, but our friendly, knowledgeable staff members go out of their way to ensure you have the best experience possible.

An inviting, cosy restaurant, Le Bistro features many Parisian café favourites. Chef Paul Pike prepares sumptuous comfort food with a French flair in an open style kitchen.

Our menu consists of classic favourites such as Croque Monsieur, Crepes Florentine, Poulet Moritz and much more.

Le Bistro is the place for any occasion, whether you are planning a romantic evening, a business lunch or a party.

We customize menus and room setup to suit your needs.

For quick lunches, great brunches and evenings that never end... Le Bistro By Liz

Weekend brunch menu 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Check out our delectable three styles of Eggs Benedict, Banana Bread French Toast, Crepes Florentine and so much more. Each brunch entrée includes a complimentary brunch beverage — mimosa, caesar or bloody Mary!

1333 South Park St. Halifax 902.423.8428 www.lebistrohalifax.com

“UnWined” Wednesday is a must for anyone who loves great wines and a fabulous deal! Every Wednesday night from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. you’ll find our 8oz glass of wine at the 5oz price.

Le Bistro is proud to support local musicians by providing live entertainment

four nights a week: Wednesday and Thursday evenings 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday evenings 7p.m. to 10 p.m.

Open Daily Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Brunch: Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Casual Fine Dining Liz Ingram-Chambers, owner

RAISING THE BAR CELEBRITY WINES AND SPIRITS WORTH

Celebrating

By Tori Stafford Photos courtesy of Crystal Head Vodka and David Bastedo

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It’s not uncommon to associate the rich and famous with the world of fine wines and high-end cocktails, but it seems celebrities across the globe are becoming more connected to the industry than ever before.

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hat’s because the number of A-list actors, musicians and athletes producing, partnering in or endorsing wine and spirits is growing all the time. Whether they’re the beautiful bottles behind the bar of your favourite cocktail lounge or wine bar, or the go-to favourites holding their own in homes and restaurants, celebrity liquors, wines, champagnes and even beers are everywhere. And chances are, you’ve tried one.

From David Beckham’s partnership with Diageo to create Haig Club single grain scotch whiskey, to Brad Pitt and Angelia Jolie’s Miraval Rosé produced at the French vineyard where the couple married in 2014, star-studded wines and liquors have become some of the most reputable and sought-after alcoholic beverages the world over. Fine Lifestyles caught up with two of Canada’s

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It’s the latter element that is the “wild card” in the wine, which is from the 2012 vintage.

biggest celebrities to find out more about their ventures within the industry.

Released last year and available for order online, The Tragically Hip Grand Reserve Red – Fully Completely was launched in connection with the band’s re-release of their album of the same name. Guitarist Rob Baker explains the band had kicked around the idea of creating its own wine for a while, but it was connecting with the right wine, vineyard and winemaker prior to the re-release that made the idea come to fruition. After tasting a number of different wines, the band found one from a vineyard in the Niagara Peninsula that was “pleasing to all of our palates,” says Baker.

Working closely with Stoney Ridge Estate Winery, the band developed The Tragically Hip Grand Reserve Red – Fully Completely. The band members spent quite a bit of time at the vineyard with winemaker Jeff Hundertmark to decide on the perfect blend, Baker explains.

The result is a robust blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

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“The Cab Franc is the one that gives it an intensity and a depth… it’s got those crazy notes likes anise and tar and tobacco,” Baker says, noting the luscious, fruit-forward Merlot helps to balance the blend. “I think it goes with everything. I’m a red meat kind of guy, but it pairs really well with a lot of things. It’s also a great wine for when you just want to open up a bottle of red and kick back and watch a movie or enjoy a summer night.”

For actor Dan Aykroyd, getting into the alcoholic beverage industry was something that just made sense.

“I’ve always been a collaborator throughout my creative life… So when I turned my attention to the questions of leisure, I just wanted something better to serve my guests,” he says.

Aykroyd met J.P. Dejoria, the owner of Patron Tequila, in 2007 and brought the traditionally manufactured premium tequila line to Canada. Not long after, Aykroyd invested in Niagara winery, Diamond Estates, and began producing signature wines. He also founded Crystal Head Vodka in 2007, which remains his main focus in the industry today.

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

“When it came to vodka, I simply wanted to make something better… Something to rise above the less-expensive products,” Aykroyd explains of the inception of Crystal Head. “When trying different vodkas a few years ago, I noted an over viscosity and an artificial sweetness in many products. I thought surely we could achieve a better, more naturally smooth taste and mouth feel.”

With the help of three partners, that’s precisely what Aykroyd did. Additivefree and boasting a palatable pureness, Crystal Head Vodka offers an unmasked flavour and “a clean slate, a virgin canvas” for building the perfect martini.

“Crystal Head is distilled in Canada from peaches and cream corn and blended with pristine Newfoundland water,” Aykroyd says, noting the vodka is filtered seven times, including three filtrations through Herkimer diamonds. “Our product is of the highest quality and this makes us a premium brand that people genuinely enjoy drinking.”

And when it comes to appreciating the premium quality vodka, Aykroyd says he’s “a simple guy.”

“The ’54 Bar Car is a simple and delicious way to enjoy Crystal Head: Crystal Head with a splash of vermouth, olive brine and an olive and pearl onion for garnish,” he says.

Seafood Dining Excellence at Fisherman’s Cove

By Melanie Furlong Photos Bruce Jollimore

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or the last 20 years, Eastern Passage’s Wharf Seafood Restaurant has been the place to go for fresh, delicious seafood.

The Fisherman’s Cove restaurant, owned

by Tim and Sharon Henneberry, is best known for its award-winning line-caught haddock and chips. The impressive dish features their unique crispy batter and comes with tasty coleslaw and tartar. Many of their most popular dishes include local line-caught haddock, Digby scallops, PEI mussels, fresh lobster and more. Try their creamy seafood chowder, Atlantic seafood fettuccini or Sambuca sea scallops. They also offer a wide selection of other foods.

At Wharf Seafood Restaurant, the staff members take pride in the quality and

presentation of all their meals. Every dish has been created and perfected by Tim and is cooked to excellence by their chefs.

With three outdoor patios and indoor seating for 120 guests, Wharf Seafood Restaurant is a great place to go with a crowd or for an intimate, candlelit dinner for two.

Come to Wharf Seafood Restaurant and try something new!

Wharf Seafood Restaurant 104 Government Wharf Road Eastern Passage 902.465.3476 wharfseafood.ca OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

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LIFTING OFF

By Trina Annand

Q

uiet and unassuming as he enters a room, Dave Gunning has a presence that blossoms on stage. With 11 albums under his belt, numerous ECMA Awards and two Canadian Folk Music Awards, the Juno nominee’s latest album Lift is a celebration of authenticity. The album is meant to echo the feeling of his live performances with the honest acoustic sound for which Gunning is best known.

“Lift didn’t start out as an album, I was originally recording demos by myself,” says Gunning.

“These songs are not overly produced, there is a genuine feeling to them; they came together very organically.” During a brainstorming session with J.P. Cormier and Thom Swift, Gunning realized he already had his next album, courtesy of some encouragement from the musicians. Gunning’s first entirely self produced album, Lift is a stunning achievement for someone who picked up a guitar at age 12 and had his first paying gig at 15.

“As a kid I took piano lessons, I didn’t really take to them, partially because I was very shy and our piano was in the middle of our home. A guitar

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was something I could retreat into my room and experiment with,” says Gunning. This shy demeanour melts away while Gunning is on stage, lost in a conversation with the audience as the performer launches into his storytelling style. “I spent a lot of time playing for other people and it helped me develop my style. I even played some rock, but folk was like a magnet always pulling me in.” The musician’s first brush with folk was at the age of eight when he saw his first live concert with John Allen Cameron and Stan Rogers, an experience Gunning says stayed with him over the years.

Just outside of his hometown of Pictou, Gunning lives with his wife, Sara, and their three sons, Jud, Will and Gus. The songwriter is taking his success in stride.

“I honestly never thought I could make music for a living. I had some amazing breaks, such as working with Stompin’ Tom, but I assumed my music was too regional. I write about what I know, stories and people from home,” says Gunning. The performer follows a proud tradition of Atlantic writing. “I’ve been inspired by people like Stan Rogers and J.P. Cormier who’ve never tried to hide where they’re from. They aren’t worried about being sexy,” chuckles Gunning.

For Gunning, the true test of music is longevity and resonance, creating a song that stays with people, something they can carry with them.

When asked whether his sons are interested in music, Gunning notes they like writing songs, but he doesn’t want to force them into the business. “There’s no parenting book for how to raise a kid when you’re a musician, all you can do is give them the tools and see what happens,” says Gunning, recounting the story of a friend who placed a banjo under his son’s bed.

Touring internationally, Gunning has swiftly become a symbol of Atlantic and Canadian folk music, whether he would agree is another thing all together. “We have some amazing talent in the Atlantic provinces and I am just proud to work with so many people who are defining folk for the next generation,” says Gunning.

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SEPTEMBER 25 Melissa Etheridge – This is M.E. Solo Tour Casino Nova Scotia SEPTEMBER 26 NHL Preseason Islanders VS Hurricanes Scotiabank Centre

events HALIFAX

FALL 2015

OCTOBER 2 – 3 Symphony Nova Scotia Presents Buck 65 Rebecca Cohn Auditorium OCTOBER 3 The Wiggles Rock & Roll Preschool Scotiabank Centre OCTOBER 16 Godsmack Scotiabank Centre

OCTOBER 17 Nocturne: Art at Night Various Venues

OCTOBER 19 – 20 Billy Connolly “High Horse” Tour Rebecca Cohn Auditorium OCTOBER 20 – 24 Halifax Pop Explosion Various Venues

OCTOBER 24 Road Trip Tour: Dean Brody and Paul Brandt Scotiabank Centre OCT. 30 – NOV. 1 Hal-Con World Trade & Convention Centre OCT. 31 – NOV. 1 Symphony Nova Scotia Presents Sci-Fi Symphony Rebecca Cohn Auditorium NOV. – DEC. (VARIOUS DATES) The Importance of Being Uncle Roscoe CentreStage Theatre, Kentville

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Delicious Caramel Apple Cider RECIPE • 2 oz Smirnoff Kissed Caramel flavoured vodka • 5 oz Apple cider Fill shaker with ice and ingredients, shake, strain into mason jars and garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.

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Farmer’s Best Café Opening sOOn On BedfOrd HigHway

By Melanie Furlong

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magine overlooking the beautiful Bedford Basin, watching waves lap the shore with a steaming cappuccino and mouthwatering pastry in front of you. This winter, it will be a reality at the new Farmer’s Best Cafe on the Bedford Highway. With its breathtaking view and delicious baked goods, this café is sure to be your favourite new meeting place.

market, it’s now progressing and will be open for business at the end of 2015.

The new addition to Farmer’s Best will serve a variety of coffees, teas, desserts, pastries and breads. You’ll also find some savoury dishes such as moussaka, stuffed tomatoes and peppers, Mediterraneanstyle cabbage rolls, souvlaki and authentic Greek salad perfect for lunch. Smoothies and fresh juices will also be served.

Although the harsh past winter delayed progress on the new building behind the

For local developer Peter Giannoulis, owner of Farmer’s Best, the bakery and

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café present another way for him to share the comforting taste of his favourite foods from Greece. He started by bringing in oranges, lemons and mandarins from Greece because he loves these products himself.

Giannoulis purchased the former Farmer Clem’s on the Bedford Highway at the beginning of 2014. It has been magnificently transformed to Farmer’s Best, which is also home to the best fresh products Nova Scotia has to offer. Making

peter giannoulis, owner

local products a priority and being loyal to Nova Scotian farmers, Giannoulis decided to further expand the market’s selection to include the world of citrus fruits.

“These products are the best in the world,” says Giannoulis. “The reasons are the landscape, the weather and the production methods in Greece. It was frustrating to only be able to find these products in Montreal or Toronto.” Now that they’re here, he’s discovered the local community is thrilled with the store’s quality, selection and reasonable prices.

It’s easy to see how Giannoulis decided on the name for this business when you realize he’s also offering his own brand of 100 per cent organic extra virgin olive oil, Kastania. Made from his own olives grown in the rocky soil of the mountains of Taygetos in two of the southern provinces of Greece, Lakonia and Mesinia, which are believed by many to be the finest sources of olive oil in the world, the oil tastes beautifully fresh.

This is Giannoulis’ way of bringing his best to Halifax.

Farmer’s Best 389 Bedford Hwy, Halifax 902.443.4391 Open seven days a week 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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Eat Healthy,

EAT LOCAL

By Tonya Lambert Photos David Elliott

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t Meadowbrook Meat Market in Somerset, owners Jimmie and Margie Lamb and their staff are committed to providing you and your family with premium Nova Scotia pork. Every slice of bacon, every link of sausage, every rack of ribs comes from grain-fed, antibioticfree pigs raised on Meadowbrook Farm.

The use of flax and other omega-rich grains in the feed means Meadowbrook pork contains high levels of omega-3 and omega-6. With every mouthful, you can taste the healthy, hearty homemade goodness.

also. The flavour is spot on with just the right amount of spice, which doesn’t overshadow the beautiful flavour of the pork. And the best part is you are getting a locally raised product that is fed without the use of antibiotics.”

“I can’t say enough about how great their products are,” says customer Pierre-Luc Lebel. “Best bacon I have ever had. The pork breakfast sausages are amazing

Meadowbrook Meat Market also sells fresh Atlantic beef and local free range chickens and turkeys. On their shelves you will find locally made products,

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At Meadowbrook, they are proud to produce pure pork products. “Our Jimmie dogs, smoked bologna, deli salami and deli pepperoni are made without gluten, animal by-products or MSG,” says Margie. “There are no fillers in our sausages, just meat and spices. We also have a line of ‘No Salt Added’ sausages for those with dietary restrictions.”

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ranging from chocolates and cheese to jams and juices and much, much more.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are available in season. “It is a pleasure to shop in this clean, well-organized market,” says Rosalie Chymist Fredericks. “The staff is so pleasant and helpful.”

Another service Meadowbrook offers is their Pork on Wheels pig roasts. They also barbecue beef and chicken. Customers can order a selection of locally made salads and baked goods, as well. A party favourite, they can provide meals for any size event.

Jimmie has been in the hog industry for nearly 40 years. Starting out as a commodity producer in 1978, he and wife Margie transitioned into direct marketing during the 1990s. Today, Meadowbrook

LEFT Margie and Jimmie Lamb, owners.

takes 50 to 70 pigs each week from farm to processing to plate. “We have a saying at Meadowbrook,” notes Margie, “’Once upon a time there was a little market that grew and grew... thanks to you.’ We are blessed to have the support we have. We live in an amazing place.”

At Meadowbrook, they believe in giving back to the community. They frequently donate pig roasts to help raise funds for local projects and will provide a barbecue and $150 of products for charitable events. They also have a customer appreciation card that allows customers to collect stamps toward free products, and a program whereby organizations can collect receipts and return them for three per cent back in gift cards.

Meadowbrook Meat Market products may be purchased at their store in Somerset or from their shop at Alderney Landing in Dartmouth. Their products are also found in markets and restaurants throughout the province. In addition, some products are available online.

Meadowbrook Meat Market: Locally grown, locally delicious. Eat Healthy.

Eat Local.

Meadowbrook Meat Market 318 Pleasant Valley Road Somerset (north of Berwick) Office: 902.538.3623 Store: 902.538.1106 Alderney Landing, Dartmouth (enter at Casaroma Wellness Centre) 902.464.2272 meadowbrookfarm@ns.sympatico.ca www.meadowbrookmeatmarket.com

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The Lincoln MKX: R E D E F I N I N G L U X U RY

CROSSOVERS

By Trina Annand Photos courtesy of Lincoln Motor Company

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est known for an understated elegance and unsurpassed quality, Lincoln Motor Company is entering a new phase of development.

They have recently redesigned four of their vehicles for a more modern audience. One such vehicle is the 2016 Lincoln MKX, which is being manufactured exclusively in Canada for drivers around the world.

Since the creation of its first car in 1920, Lincoln has been known as the pinnacle of American luxury brands. Part of the Ford Motor Company, Lincoln embraces technology while striving for a unique experience. “Luxury at its best is about simplifying and quietly exceeding expectations, rather than being the loudest statement on the road,” says Mark Fields, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company.

As part of the automotive company’s redevelopment, the MKX is the brand’s most luxurious crossover to date. It’s inspired by flight, with kinetic lines and a sense of continuous movement inside and out. The newly minted MKX offers drivers and passengers a sense of ‘personal luxury.’ The vehicle is a full sensory experience, with supple Bridge of Weir leather trimmed seats and a more spacious and quiet cabin that makes the ride more enjoyable for all. Active noise control cancels out unwanted noise while enhancing the Revel Sound System, which comes in 13 and 19 speaker options for a truly immersive surround sound musical experience.

“We wanted to design a car that feels like it takes you away from your everyday life. We wanted to create a sense of harmony and dynamic tension; for it to be both stunning and serene,” says Jim Smithbauer, interior design manager.

This intangible feeling drove Lincoln to create a MKX that features class leading dimensions inside and out, with a more intuitively designed cabin and a vehicle that embraces all the senses.

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With a 360-degree camera and ultrasonic sensors, the Enhanced Active Park Assist ensures hassle-free parallel parking. An added safety feature in the MKX is the inflatable rear seatbelt, which, in the event of a crash, will evenly distribute the force and minimize seat belt injuries. Outside, the MKX delivers an unrivalled experience with features such as coloured door handle lights and the signature Lincoln Welcome Mat that illuminates the ground in front of the door as the driver approaches.

As always, the Lincoln MKX designers were dedicated to performance as well as luxury and safety with an available 2.7L

EcoBoost® V6 Engine, Adaptive Steering and of course Lincoln Drive Control for an exceptionally smooth ride. A dramatic modern silhouette and well-balanced proportions ensure the MKX is set to redefine the luxury crossover market.

Of course, the MKX is available with personalization from the Lincoln Black Label brand, which exudes fine craftsmanship.

“Craftsmanship sits between the worlds of engineering and design,” says Stacy Swank, Lincoln craftsmanship supervisor.

“Our role is to bring those worlds together to enhance the experience for the customer. We like to think that if you don’t notice what’s been done, then we’ve done our job.”

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Luxury Car Dealer

to open Doors on WinDmill roaD this Fall

By Melanie Furlong Photos Bruce Jollimore

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fter months of planning, Carson Exports will finally open the doors at its new location this November at 550 Windmill Rd. The dealership, which specializes in bringing hard-to-find luxury vehicles to Nova Scotia, will now have a 20,000-sq.-ft. indoor showroom that will hold 60 vehicles inside and up to 70 vehicles on the exterior lot — making it twice as big as their original location.

Carson Exports has many vehicles in store that will draw looks of admiration, and ones that are just plain fun to drive.

At the time of writing, Carson Exports had everything from a show-stopping gold 2012 Lamborghini Supperleggera LP570-4, the only one of its kind in the Maritimes, to a top-of-the-line 2012 Dodge RAM Sport they gave a boost with a six-inch suspension lift and 37inch tires.

Another is their yellow and black 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T, featuring a Mopar Supercharger. With a pistol grip shifter and over 500 horsepower, this classic car will appeal to a seasoned driver.

“I get more looks when I’m out in that truck than almost any other vehicle,” says sales manager Richard Paul.

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One is the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, or Evo, listed for $45,000. Sent to Texas by its former owner for a 750 “X” Package, the four-door sports car, featuring flashy front and back spoilers, is loud and proud. Paul says the engine sounds like two chainsaws fighting.

The beautiful 2010 Audi S5 Coupe is the fourth of its kind Carson Exports has had in this year. With its luxe leather interior, panoramic sunroof and sleek look, it’s another fun-to-drive sports car that won’t be in store long.

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Carson Exports also has a great selection of very lightly used BMWs and high end pickup trucks by Ford, Chevy and Dodge.

These trucks would normally go for more than $75,000 apiece brand new with their high trim levels, but Carson Exports is offering a wide selection for a fraction of the price. Local car enthusiasts are excited to discover exotic and high end luxury vehicles like these with the same warranties and financing found at any car dealership.

Owner Carson Way travels frequently throughout North America to locate fantastic inventory he can ship home.

Way and Paul constantly study the market to ensure their higher end vehicles are competitively priced. “If consumers compare us nationally,” says Way, “they’ll

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see we strive to be on the lower end of the price range.”

a really good team of people who want happy customers.”

Some of Carson Exports’ customers are from as far away as Vancouver. “That speaks to our pricing, that they would buy from us and still pay to ship their cars across the country,” says Way. He says his pricing expertise stems from being a wholesaler by nature.

“When you’re selling cars to other dealers, you have to be on the money. Although we offer unique cars and indoor car shopping, we still have a large wholesale operation.”

Way’s second location, in Greenwood, N.S., also prices aggressively and brings in some interesting models. From BMWs to Fiats and antique Ford Coupes, the inventory is constantly being updated.

No matter what price bracket you are shopping in, the staff members at Carson Exports treats everyone they deal with like their very best customer. The staff — including sales, service and detail — is very passionate about Carson Exports and about the industry. Way says, “I have

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At Windmill Road, they plan to offer customers the same excellent service, more inventory and easier access. The facility will allow for a five-bay service department that will offer motor vehicle inspections, oil changes and more.

Dave Roberts, Carson Exports’ service manager, says their Red Seal licensed mechanics have many years experience working with the specialty cars that come through their shop, including European,

BELOW Carson Way, owner

Asian and domestic vehicles. No matter what you’re driving or where it came from, the service department at Carson Exports will be able to provide top-of-theline service to your vehicle.

As the business continues to grow and succeed, Way is now using his leverage to support Nova Scotian families dealing with autism. Carson Exports was the title sponsor of the Walk the Walk for Autism fundraiser, which took place in nine cities and towns across the province on June 13 to raise money for Autism Nova Scotia. It surpassed its fundraising goal of $207,000 by $5,000, making it the best year yet.

“So much of the work Autism Nova Scotia does goes unnoticed,” says Way. “Autistics of all ages are some of the most brilliant minds in our society, yet they face a variety of struggles. We look forward

to being involved in future Autism Nova Scotia events.”

If you want to see some of the gorgeous cars Carson Exports has in store right now, visit them at 11 Pettipas Dr. in Burnside. Check out the Facebook pages for Carson Exports and Worldwide Auto Sales Greenwood to see some of the vehicles currently available and for the opening dates of their new Windwill Road location.

Carson exports 11 pettipas Drive Dartmouth 902.468.7804 carsonexports.com Greenwood auto sales 830 Central ave.

Greenwood 1.888.720.3229 greenwoodautosales.autotrader.ca

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WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

I n s I g h ts I n to

Women of Achievement

By Henny Buffinga

“People don’t take opportunities because the timing is bad, the financial side unsecure. Too many people are overanalyzing. Sometimes you just have to go for it.”

– Michelle Zatlyn, co-founder of CloudFlare

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ntrepreneurship was once considered a man’s game, but more women are starting their own businesses and excelling in business than ever. After all, these are the “lean in” times, where women are encouraged to lean into their careers and where campaigns like #banbossy are taking over the conversation, encouraging everyone to avoid using the word bossy around young girls to encourage their ability to lead and narrow what has been termed the confidence gap between young boys and girls.

According to Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey there were 950,000 selfemployed women in Canada in 2012, which accounts for 35.6 per cent of all self-employed persons (up only 4.4 per cent since 1990). Yet, the proportion of women-owned businesses that plan to expand is generally higher than men.

And when a woman does decide to open her own business she tends to stay in business longer, meaning her survival rates are higher.

Success often begins with education, and the percentage of young women with a postsecondary degree or diploma has

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“Dear optimist, pessimist, and realist — while you guys were busy arguing about the glass of wine, I drank it! Sincerely, the opportunist!”

- Lori Greiner, inventor and television personality

increased from 43 per cent in 1990 to 71 per cent in 2013. However, while significant leaps in women’s education and business success have been steadily on the rise, there are still many barriers facing women in the workplace. Women-owned startups often receive significantly less investor funding, and fear of failure is listed as one of the biggest concerns among women starting their own business. Women also have to deflect the perception of many employers that family responsibilities will interfere with their competence at work.

Women are still learning to use what are perceived as feminine qualities (nurturing, relationship focused) to their advantage

in the workplace, while others are fighting the idea that they need to “act like men” to succeed.

Despite the many challenges women face in business, there are great role models to look to for motivation. These women range from Arianna Huffington, co-founder and editor-in-chief of the Huffington Post, who is frequently cited as one of the most influential people in the media today, to Sheryl Sandberg, the chief operating officer of Facebook, whose work in the male-dominated tech field with Facebook and Google has proven inspiring to many, to J.K. Rowling, author of the best

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selling book series in history and who was originally told to write under her initials because boys wouldn’t want to read books written by a woman.

But what does it take to get to the top?

Some of the common traits of successful women are assertiveness, confidence, strategy, opportunity recognition and the ability to handle stress. While there’s no one recipe for success, Fine Lifestyles plans to ask women about their motivations, success habits and interests to see what helped them get to where they are. Our Women of Achievement series is sure to inspire.

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Dr. Jenine Arab O’Malley Accredited Cosmetic Dentist Uses Artistry to Create Healthy Smiles

By Melanie Furlong Photos Stephen Jess

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n her studio, surrounded by tools, tints, finishes and materials, Dr. Jenine Arab O’Malley is truly an artist at work. Her smock: a lab coat.

Her medium: cosmetic bonding. Her canvas: teeth.

Dr. Arab O’Malley could be a sculptor or painter, and in a way, she is both. She colours and shapes each tooth with the confidence and expertise required to

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create healthy, natural-looking teeth.

Through advanced clinical training, Dr. Arab O’Malley, owner of Halifax Dental Studio, has mastered an artistic skill set that enables her to combine restorative composite resin materials in layered applications to beautifully simulate a natural looking tooth structure.

After completing work on a few front teeth for her patient, Sherry, she shows

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her the finished outcome with a mirror.

Sherry is close to tears she is so happy with the restoration of her worn and discoloured teeth. “It’s not every day I meet someone like you,” she says to Dr. Arab O’Malley. “You’re an angel is what you are.”

Seeing the impact her work has on a patient’s self-esteem is Dr. Arab O’Malley’s biggest reward. She meets a

“With today’s advances in technology and mastering an artistic skill set, we now have the capacity to preserve tooth structure, and teeth in general, with cosmetic bonding.” lot of patients who are unhappy with their teeth, making them reluctant or even embarrassed to smile. They may have worn down teeth from grinding, spacing, discolouration or poor symmetry.

“As an accredited cosmetic dentist, I look at the big picture, which is creating balance between teeth, tissue, function and esthetic,” says Dr. Arab O’Malley.

“The final cosmetic outcome should emulate natural dental morphology, which integrates seamlessly into the rest of the dentition.”

Dr. Arab O’Malley performs all aspects of dentistry, from basic restorations to full mouth reconstruction, advocating a bio-aesthetic approach, which is to try and achieve the desired results in the most natural, non-invasive way in order to preserve the tooth structure.

For many procedures, such as bonding, patients are thrilled to discover there is usually no freezing and the work is often completed in one visit. What’s also surprising to many patients is cosmetic bonding is typically much more affordable than crowns, depending on the situation, and many dental insurance plans cover the work.

This spring, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry honoured Dr. Arab O’Malley as the first dentist in Atlantic Canada with accreditation status. She is distinguished as one of only 14 dental professionals across Canada and 348 worldwide to have achieved accreditation status in the AACD. She joined eight other international dental professionals at the 2015 AACD Conference in San Francisco this May to be formally awarded the accreditation honour.

BEFORE

This prestigious designation requires the highest level of technical skill and competency in cosmetic dentistry and usually takes years to complete. The process was both an empowering and humbling journey for Dr. Arab O’Malley, who is also a married mother of four children, aged 20, 19, 15 and 12.

“I depended a lot on support from my husband, Greg O’Malley, who was remarkable,” says Dr. Arab O’Malley. “All the kids were into hockey, in addition to running his own business, he spent 20 hours a week in the hockey rink. The kids were also very understanding of me going through this process and quite proud and moved by my accomplishment.”

The family support she received also came in the form of inspiration, which Dr. Arab O’Malley took from her father,

AFTER Artistic application of cosmetic bonding to rejuvenate a smile

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Joseph Arab, who she lost last fall. “The challenges of difficult case selections, the rigorous AACD protocol coupled with the personal and time commitments required a perseverance that I attribute to my father, whose hard work and determination inspired me throughout my educational endeavours,” she says. “It is indeed sad that he could not be here to witness this achievement. He would have been very proud.”

Her father, who immigrated to Canada with his six siblings in 1949, was an intelligent man with a strong affinity for mathematics and engineering. He taught for many years in Lebanon, but never had the opportunity to further his own studies. “He was a very hardworking and dedicated man who taught us to be the best we could be at whatever we did and fearlessly reach for our highest goals,” says Dr. Arab O’Malley.

Those lessons hit home early for Dr. Arab O’Malley who graduated from St. Mary’s University, summa cum lauda, with a BSc. and was awarded the University Gold Medal for highest standing in her graduating year. She then completed her postgraduate studies at Dalhousie University where she received her Doctor of Dental Surgery and the Dr. W.H.H. Beckwith Award for greatest proficiency in Operative Dentistry.

Dr. Arab O’Malley has always loved being creative in many facets of her life: having a passion for sewing and designing, a flair for interior decorating, creative cooking and now, of course, designing a smile.

When she was considering her career, she knew she wanted something health related because she had a focus and drive to help others and saw an opportunity in dentistry for being very creative and artistic. Working for more than 20 years, Dr. Arab O’Malley has transformed the way she practices.

“With today’s advances in technology and mastering an artistic skill set, we now have the capacity to preserve tooth structure, and teeth in general, with cosmetic bonding. Tooth preservation has become the ultimate progression in the profession,” she says.

Dr. Arab O’Malley has recently launched the Give Back A Smile program and

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works with the YMCA to restore smiles and confidence to women in need. Many of these patients present teeth that are extensively decayed, often broken at the gum line. Many women come in fearing the teeth will be extracted, but often Dr. Arab O’Malley is able to restore them and create a beautiful smile.

Abroad, Dr. Arab O’Malley also advocates the importance of tooth preservation.

She recently provided humanitarian aid through a Global Brigades mission to needy communities in Honduras. Dr. Arab O’Malley brought her own dental material and taught many restorative techniques to mission workers as an alternative to extraction, paving the way for positive, sustainable change. Both her eldest children, Keelan and Brianna, have since volunteered on the same mission and witnessed the transformation in the communities as they are now restoring teenagers’ teeth instead of extracting them.

Inspired by his mother’s vision, Keelan had the opportunity to shadow her in her office and learn more about what she does. “When I am working with her and am up close watching her do her magic, I often forget that she is performing dental work because she looks like an artist creating a masterpiece,” he says.

“Patients are either speechless or crying of happiness after being handed the mirror and checking out the results. I couldn’t imagine how rewarding it would feel knowing you changed someone’s life by putting a brand-new smile on their face, and my mom does this every day. I am so proud of my mother and what she has accomplished. She is hardworking, dedicated, passionate, and most importantly, my role model.”

Halifax Dental Studio 255 Lacewood Dr., Suite102 Halifax 902.443.4111 appointments@halifaxdentalstudio.ca halifaxdentalstudio.ca

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WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

Jennifer Gillivan CEO Leads the IWK Foundation Down An Innovative Path

By Melanie Furlong

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hen Jennifer Gillivan was offered the role of IWK Foundation president and CEO three years ago, she took it. She knew the position fit with her passion for the rights of women and children, and her belief that great societies put them at their centre. She faced the job of raising millions of dollars for the IWK Health Centre head on and has already won multiple awards for her accomplishments.

Gillivan says she is often asked how she goes out and asks for money. “I can’t ask for money for just anything,” she responds. “But I can ask for the IWK because I passionately believe in it and why it exists for our region.”

She’s also a person who sees the end goal before the beginning. If Gillivan can see potential and opportunity, she is committed. And she certainly sees that for the IWK Foundation.

“One of the things that encouraged me to take on this role was the idea of being able to run a foundation that supports such an important cause in our region,” she says. “It doesn’t matter where you go in this area, everyone has a connection to the IWK. If it weren’t here, many families would have to go to Montreal and Toronto for care and they would endure so much hardship. It’s a great, worthwhile cause.”

The IWK Health Centre services all three Maritime Provinces and is the region’s

ABOVE IWK patient, Blake Boudreau, received open-heart surgery in the Ron Joyce Operating Suites when she was an infant.

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attributes much of her leadership success to service. “You have to be in service to develop followers,” she says. “A title alone won’t do it. You have to have humility, service, compassion and decisiveness.

Those are the characteristics that create a more dynamic and subtle way of leading.”

And if Gillivan is ever at a loss, she doesn’t have to look far for encouragement or support. Her husband of 33 years, Joe Gillivan, is an executive coach who works with many top CEOs in the region. “He’s an amazing guy and the love of my life,” says Gillivan. The two met as teenagers growing up in Ireland. “All of our family is in Ireland except for us and our daughters, Claire and Katie. But I have a real partner and a best friend as well as a husband in Joe. That’s how I manage to keep it all together. He keeps me straight.”

The couple also has an extensive library with some of Gillivan’s favourite motivational books, such as Simon Sinek’s Why Inspiring Leaders Lead and Daniel Pink’s In Your Right Mind. Gillivan has read every kind of book on leadership from The Five Dysfunctions of a Team to Game-Changing Advisory Boards and says she is a big believer in understanding the why of your organization and team as well as yourself. In fact, it was Sinek who coined one of her favourite phrases, ‘People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it.’

leading health care and research centre dedicated to the well-being of women, children, youth and families. The IWK Foundation is a private, non-profit organization that works in partnership with the IWK Health Centre to raise funds to support quality care in the Maritimes and beyond.

The IWK Foundation team raises millions of dollars each year thanks to the generosity of donors, people that Gillivan says humble her. “I can’t believe how much people in this region love the IWK and what they will do for it,” she says.

“Working with an amazing staff, board of trustees and patients and their families who want to give back is so motivating.

It just crystallizes why we should be here

on this planet and why we should care about each other.”

Now more than ever, donor support is critical to the continued evolution of the IWK Health Centre and Gillivan is leading the IWK Foundation using a business model to help them reach their goals. “I’m big on innovation,” she says, “and was fascinated by the question of whether or not you can run a social profit organization like this one the same way as a for-profit organization and be successful. Based on the awards we’re getting from the business world, the answer is yes.”

Gillivan has always been a believer in giving back to her community and

When mentoring young women, either people she meets in the MBA classes she talks to or in the formal mentoring programs she participates in, Gillivan always recommends they find out what their personal “why” is. “Look back at yourself at age three or four,” she says.

“You’ll actually find some of the traits you had then and haven’t lost.”

Once they’ve discovered that, she hopes they will give back to their community and help inspire other women in the workplace. “If you don’t pay it forward and help bring younger women along, we’ll never make a dent in the glass ceiling,” says Gillivan. “That’s a role every woman can play.”

IWK Foundation B220-5855 Spring Garden Road, Halifax foundation@iwk.nshealth.ca 902.470.8085 Iwkfoundation.org

CENTRE IWK patients, Ben and Jiesheng Boutilier WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

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WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

Carrie Yeo Helping Reveal A More Beautiful You

By Trina Annand Photos David Elliott

C

arrie Yeo discovered her business by chance. It was a lucky turn of events that she embraced, changing her life forever. Working as a receptionist for an ophthalmologist who was looking to diversify, Yeo was trained as a laser hair removal technician. She soon discovered a passion for helping women feel more confident and beautiful. Yeo bought the business, and Light Touch Laser Inc. was born.

“Every entrepreneurial book tells you not to buy your job, but that’s exactly what I did,” says Yeo. After starting small in 2003 with one Lightsheer Diode laser

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and only Yeo on staff, the business has since flourished into three locations in the Annapolis Valley. “In this intimate one-on-one setting, the business was really built by maintaining the highest quality service. I built a reputation; clients trust Light Touch,” says Yeo. “It was very important to me to develop a relationship with my clients so they were truly comfortable with me and their laser hair removal experience.” This approach has clearly worked, as clients travel from around the province to Light Touch.

Being a single working mom carried extra motivation to succeed. “I really needed the choices I made in business to

WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

work,” says Yeo. “I love that I was able to create a business in my hometown that supports me, my children and itself. And, now as we grow, I am able to add even more to my community by employing amazing people!”

This drive to succeed for herself and her family has led the entrepreneur to some epiphanies along the way. For Yeo, there are three keys to success: offering high quality solutions that work, developing a relationship with clients by helping them realize everyone is working to be their best selves and, most of all, great staff. “Having great employees makes all the difference; to truly be successful

you need people who have a natural way of caring for others. You can’t force a genuine connection,” says Yeo. When speaking of her success, Yeo is modest. “I honestly didn’t feel like an entrepreneur until I had opened my third location; it’s not something I had even really thought about. I found taking that first leap into owning my own business was the most challenging. I certainly know a lot more about the business world now than I did before,” says Yeo. This knowledge and drive has led Yeo to expand not only her business size, but also the services Light Touch offers.

In 2012, Light Touch introduced the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program to their menu after Yeo tried it herself and lost 30lbs. “It enabled me to get in control of my weight very quickly. I decided it was something I could offer my clients.

Everyone has areas of themselves they want to improve and this has been an excellent addition to our existing services,” says Yeo. Providing more than simply a weight loss product, the staff of Light Touch provides a valuable support system for those who are working to change their lives. “It’s rewarding to be able to help people get something under control that they never thought would be possible. It’s empowering for both them and us as coaches. I know from experience that gaining control of your weight is life changing,” says Yeo. The business is also expanding their esthetics services, while still staying true to their clinical roots, by offering

services such as pedicures that are safe for diabetics and facials tailored to those with skin problems or sensitivities. “I only bring in things I would tell my sister or best friends about,” says Yeo. “People are looking for solutions that work and often they have been frustrated with results provided by over the counter products, low grade equipment and uninformed technicians.”

concerned about appearing vain, but caring for your body is an important part of health and wellness. Beauty isn’t just about how others perceive you; it’s about how we care for ourselves. How you care for the outside shows how you care for yourself on the inside; and it can really affect your mood and confidence, which trickles into so many areas of your life,” says Yeo.

“I have worked in this industry for a long time and there is so much the public needs to know to make good decisions,” says Yeo. “Even something as simple as whether a clinic is using a true laser or an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) system can make a difference in the quality of the treatment and the results.” Yeo’s philosophy is to use the best system for the job and swears by the Lightsheer Duet, a medical grade diode laser specifically designed for laser hair removal. “A technician is only as good as her equipment, and the equipment can only perform its best in the hands of an educated technician,” says Yeo. She emphasizes that specialized systems excel at one type of treatment and outshine a multi-service unit every time.

When reflecting on what she has learned most as a business owner, Yeo says, “Owning a business shines a spot light on all your strengths and a magnifying glass on all your weaknesses. When we have to look at ourselves through the lens of our business and the eyes of our clients, that’s where we can learn and grow.”

If the last few years are any indication, growing is an area in which this female entrepreneur excels.

Still working in each of her clinics, Yeo is currently working on a fourth location with the same intimate feel and supportive environment as the other three. Being hands-on ensures Yeo and her staff maintain the caliber of service for which they are best known.

Light Touch Laser Inc. 50A Webster Street, Kentville 902.678.2829 kentville@lighttouch.ca Southgate Court, Unit 5, 780 Central Avenue, Greenwood 902.765.2639 greenwood@lighttouch.ca 360 Main Street, Wolfville Accessed through Pure Hair Design 902.697.2829 wolfville@lighttouch.ca

Certain elements of the beauty industry can carry a stigma. “People are often

WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

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WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

Gina’s Passion

THE ART OF WINEMAKING

As a fine artist blends colour and form to evoke emotions, Gaspereau Vineyards’ winemaker Gina Haverstock combines aroma, texture and hue to create remarkable wines.

“I love being a wine maker.” says Haverstock. “It’s the best combination of science, art and soul. Ninety-eight percent of the time, I am in work clothes, slinging hoses, pumping wine and trying to capture the true character of the grapes that our climate provides and that our vineyard team so painstakingly nurtures. Two percent of the time, I am dressed up and get the opportunity to describe the passion, love and hard work that goes into every bottle. If you come to the winery to talk wine, I’ll more likely be wearing steel-toed boots than high heel shoes!”

Nova Scotia-born Haverstock’s lifelong ambition to become a doctor was sidelined by a summer job at Jost Vineyards. A Bachelor of Science graduate of the University of New Brunswick, in 2000 she took a job at the vineyard and soon discovered that learning about wine captivated her.

Haverstock returned to Jost in 2001 to learn hands on how wine is made. She went on to take sommelier training and then to the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University in St. Catherines, Ontario, receiving a Bachelor of Science with an honours in Oenology and Viticulture.

Upon completion of her studies, she worked at wineries in Germany, Austria, France, and New Zealand.

Haverstock returned to Nova Scotia in 2006 to become the winemaker at, what was then, the newly established Gaspereau Vineyards.

Her wines, especially Riesling and aromatic whites, have received international awards and accolades. This August Haverstock’s 2013 Gaspereau Riesling was a recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Nova Scotia Wines.

Wine lovers are encouraged to visit Gaspereau to chat with Haverstock and to taste some of the wines that she and the winery team create.

Gaspereau Vineyards is just 3km from downtown Wolfville. Located at 2239 White Rock Road, the winery is open 7 days a week May through December. They offer wine tastings, vineyard tours, a licensed patio overlooking the vineyard, shopping in the winery boutique, locallyinspired menu, picnic baskets, bike rentals, in-store wine specials, and wine education seminars. Visit gaspereauwine.com to discover more.

Winemaker, Gina Haverstock

YOUR ROAD TO FINANCIAL

FREEDOM

Are you serious about the financial security of your family and your business? What about future guarantees and reducing the stress and uncertainty of our volatile markets? We believe time is our most valuable commodity so we promise not to waste your time.

And respectfully, if you are not serious about the items in this first paragraph, you should turn the pages. If you are, please read on and we would love to hear from you.

Halifax NS Edmonton AB Summerville NS St. Albert AB 902.683.1010 780.945.1010

www.charterwealth.com

Vancouver BC 780.945.1010

North America TF 877.460.6460

The Company to Call to Save Tax

THE RIGHT APPROACH TO FINANCIAL PLANNING Photos KTB Photography

A

n accessible world has many advantages. There is an intimidating amount of information and advice available online and in print and sifting through it can be a daunting task. And so much is offered for free. How do you value something that is free?

Investing in your future should never be an emotional gamble. To know that you are on the right track when it comes to minimizing tax, protecting your incomes and growing your assets without risk, you need an unbiased,

educated professional who can help you make calculated decisions.

Charter Wealth Management is an independent financial advisory firm offering comprehensive financial advice to help you manage the wealth you have worked hard to accumulate. “It’s about understanding,” says Gordon Malic, certified financial planner and founder of Charter Wealth Management.

“When you know what’s important to someone, you can offer advice and make suggestions that get to the heart of what really matters. And when you know what

really matters to your client, you can provide personalized advice at a much higher level.”

A DISCIPLINED APPROACH TO FINANCIAL PLANNING Together, Gordon and long-time associate Dave Faulkner, a senior financial planner, create a personalized tailored document for each client.

It shows you where you are today, recognizes your future goals and plots out the lowest risk route to get you there. And it will be organized in a

TOP L–R Gordon Malic, Sr. Planner/President; Amanda Sinclair, Operations Manager; Dave Faulker, Sr. Planner; Dustin Lamontagne, Advisor; Scott Bokenfohr, Advisor; Wei Woo, Advisor; Heather Majeau, Client Care

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way that allows your lawyer and accountant to work cohesively with you to accomplish your goals.

Financial Minute Book TM is a s o p h i s t i c a t e d , p e r s o n a l i ze d tool created by Charter Wealth Management for their clients. It contains the financial plan and every piece of financial information needed to bring transparency and clarity to the family unit. “Our clients appreciate the organization and simplicity of having all their personal financial information in one place,” says Gordon. “We take a lot of pride in being the first wealth management firm to offer this type of approach to financial planning.

A TEAM APPROACH TO WEALTH MANAGEMENT At Charter Wealth Management you have access to more than 100 years of financial planning and wealth management experience. In addition to the relationship with your primary advisor, you will also benefit from the experience of the entire team. Each team member is highly qualified and specializes in various aspects of financial advice.

“You have to learn the rules of the game.

And then you have to play better than anyone else.”

– Albert Einstein

Whether you need advice on complex tax issues faced by many self-employed and small business owners, or financial planning for your family, Charter Wealth Management can help. As Gordon puts it, financial planning can best be summed up by this quote from Albert Einstein: “You have to learn the rules of the game.

And then you have to play better than anyone else.” This is one reason Charter Wealth Management is referred to as “the company to call to save tax.”

The Company to Call to Save Tax

Charter Wealth Management Halifax Summerville 902.683.1010 gord@charterwealth.com www.charterwealth.com

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Charting

FUtUrES

Charter Wealth Management’s independent roots date back to 1987. Our foundation was based on the belief that we had to know everything there was to know about our client so we could offer the best advice. In addition to our planning services, we offer our clients access to all major Canadian Life Insurance products, full service Money Management Services and Corporate Executor and Trust Services from a major Canadian Bank.

For IndIvIduals…

For the BusIness owner…

§ RetiRement

§ Risk management

§ RRIF/LIRA § Portfolio Allocation Strategies § tax savings/efficiency § RRSP/TFSA/RESP § RDSP § Tax Efficient Investing Outside a Registered Plan § Risk management

§ Protection for the business in the event that a key person becomes ill, disabled or dies. § Protection for the business if a shareholder wants to exit or dies. § taxation

§ exit stRategies § Corporate Extraction § Retirement Strategies § Key-people/Retention Plans § shaRe stRuctuRe § Estate Freezes § Financing a Buyout

§ Risk Management § Minimizing Income Tax § RDTOH/CDA

§ Cash if there is an illness § Cash if there is a disability § Cash if there is a death

Halifax NS Edmonton AB Summerville NS St. Albert AB 902.683.1010 780.945.1010

www.charterwealth.com

Vancouver BC 780.945.1010

North America TF 877.460.6460

The Company to Call to Save Tax

FL

BUSINESS

The Cash Flow Freedom Plan

E

Wendy Brookhouse MBA, CCS, CHS President + CEO Black Star Wealth Partners T: 902.446.4661 F: 902.446.4662 M: 902.830.0533 wendy@blackstarwealth.com blackstarwealth.com

My husband and I make a healthy income between the two of us. We have saved some money for retirement, but we can’t seem to make headway on our debt, and I want to save even more. Is a better budget the answer?

radicate your budget! A bold statement and probably not the answer you were expecting. I find the world is increasing in complexity every day. There is a new app you need, another tablet you should have and now there is even a new currency (Bitcoin). It is becoming rather overwhelming, and simplifying your life where possible can lead to increased freedom from anxiety and less things for your “to do” checklist. Many people try elaborate budgets for detailing all the places they will spend money and how much. I have even seen fancy colourcoded ones. For most, the process of remembering how much they have left in a particular category, even with the help of software, can become an overwhelming mess of tracking, remembering and yet another system that you need to spend a great deal of time on.

The other element that comes into play here is human emotions. When we have a good or bad day, we often decide buying something such as shoes or a new toy is just what we need. And if we use credit or debit cards, the process by which we make the decision to purchase is different as well, according to studies.

So, how do you make sure you are spending your money where you mean to? How do we create a system where we can decide if a purchase is worth it in light of an overall plan? The answer is start using cash. Not only will retailers be happy to save the credit card charge fees they have to pay, but it will make your life

BUSINESS

simpler. You either have the cash for a particular purchase or you don’t. You can turn off your rationalizing brain and just follow a system.

The system we use is to set a weekly number for our emotional or discretionary spending. This would cover things like groceries, eating out, entertainment, clothing and things of that nature. Take out the cash every week the same day, whether you have run out or not. If you run out before cash day, then you have to wait to make those purchases.

What this does is eliminate/reduce any of your unconscious spending. It will force you to decide on a particular purchase instead of just getting something.

The end result is money left over for paying down debt and saving for the future. Also, it reduces anxiety and stress about money, as you set a limit it’s easy to know if you have gone over. So kill your budget and start planning your cash flow!

Wendy Brookhouse is President + CEO of Black Star Wealth Partners. She developed the Cash Flow Freedom Plan to help clients understand not only what they have to do to achieve their goals, also how to do it. This highly innovative product gives clients a written plan covering spending, debt repayment, saving for the future and protecting against unforeseen events.

Atlantic Canada’s first Certified Cash Flow Specialist

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THE HOME OFFICE is the Way of the Future

By Henny Buffinga

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W

ith most jobs needing only a computer, phone and Internet connection, more people are working from home than ever before. Work/life balance is a hot topic when it comes to business trends, with millennials and Gen-Y workers stating it’s one of their main priorities when choosing a job.

According to the WorkShift initiative, led

by Calgary Economic Development, there are about 4.3 million Canadians with jobs that are compatible with working from home. Allowing these people to work out of office, the report states, would have a bottom-line economic benefit of $53 billion across the country, as well as community perks such as reduced traffic and the resulting lower carbon-emissions. As an example of the savings for individual businesses, the report estimates a company that has 250 telecommuting employees would save $3 million a year.

Telecommuting saves employers more than just overhead and rent money; employees who work from home are happier, and thus more productive.

According to Globalworkplaceanalytics. com, 36 per cent of workers would prefer working from home to a pay raise, and 80

per cent of employees consider working from home a job perk. With more than two thirds of employers reporting increased productivity among their telecommuters, it’s clear telecommuting is the way of the future.

According to Smallbiztrends.com, 69 per cent of U.S. entrepreneurs start their businesses from home, and many have employees who work from their own homes as well. For entrepreneurs, starting a business costs an average of $15,000, and cutting the overhead by working from home allows more freedom for the business owner in those important first few years.

For all the telecommuters, planning a specific workspace in the home is a must, not only for productivity, but also to maintain the boundaries of work and home life. When it comes to planning a home office, Chris Medeiros, co-owner of Response I.T. in Kingston, advocates doing your homework before you commit to the electronics in your home office, since they are the most important tools you will need.

“Getting the proper foundation for the office is the most important thing,” Medeiros explains. “You need to make

BUSINESS

sure you cover the basics, such as the right computer for your needs, anti-virus software, surge protectors, that kind of thing. Pricing everything ahead of time is a good idea. You need to be careful that you don’t just buy the cheapest printer in the store, because the ink cartridges for that printer might cost $200. You think you’re saving, but you’re not.”

Software such as Skype, Microsoft Word and Google Docs are invaluable to creating a cohesive virtual work environment for employees. And for people just starting up, Medeiros recommends getting your own domain name to give a professional first impression via email. He points out that if you are using a provider’s email account and you switch providers down the line, you may lose out on important communications. He also recommends a good signature, stating that it’s the little things that can add up to a more professional image.

With a major hindrance to productivity being workplace distraction, working from home in an environment workers can control helps them raise productivity levels while giving them the work/life balance they crave.

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FL

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

DAYS DOWN UNDER

By Courtney Tait

Top 5 Ways to Discover Australia

While Australia’s cities are rich with culture and cuisine, exploring the country’s spectacular nature — from rainforests that grow out of sand to a sacred sandstone monolith — is an essential part of any trip down under. Here we share five highlights, including a tour that blends sipping with scenery.

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Drive the Great Ocean Road From the limestone rock stacks known as The Twelve Apostles to legendary surf breaks and seaside villages, the Great Ocean Road features the kind of spectacular scenery designed for road-trip loving travellers. Stretching 300 km along Australia’s southeast coast, the road offers dramatic views of the southern ocean and an array of activities. Explore the dormant volcano of Tower Hill, a wildlife haven with free-roaming koalas, emus, black swans and other species. Surf, dive and sea kayak all along the coast, replenishing with some of the country’s finest dining.

Prefer walking to driving? The Great Ocean Walk shadows the Great Ocean Road, passing through lush national parks and coastal landscape. Guided walking tours offer single or multi-day hikes, complete with historic shipwreck sites, deserted beaches, and from June through September, the chance of spotting whales.

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

Watch the Sunset Over Uluru

Explore the World’s Largest Sand Island

Rising 348 metres out of flat desert, this monolith sandstone formation is one of the most photographed sites in Australia, drawing people from around the world to capture its stunning beauty and shifting colours. Located close to the centre of the country, Uluru is a deeply sacred place to the local Anangu people, who consider it home of the Earth Mother. The best way to tour the site is with an Aboriginal guide, viewing caves at the base with petroglyphs taken over tens of thousands of years. At sunset, the rock transforms in colour as the light shifts, creating a dazzling natural display. Uluru is a World Heritage Site and the centrepiece of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which also features spectacular dome-shaped rocks.

Massive dunes, towering rainforests and more than 100 freshwater lakes make World Heritage Site Fraser Island a must-see Australian destination. The world’s largest sand island, Fraser spans 120 kms along the coast of Queensland and is home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife, including dingoes, snakes, bats, wild horses, sugar gliders and more than 300 bird species.

Named for its length, 75 Mile Beach features coloured sandstone cliffs, the famous Maheno shipwreck and Champagne pools, bubbling rock pools that, unlike the ocean, are safe for swimming.

Rocky outcrop Indian Head is a popular viewing spot for seeing turtles, dolphins, sharks and other sea life. Inland, explore freshwater lakes, creeks and rainforests that grow on sand dunes.

With no sealed roads, island excursions must be done with a 4WD, either on your own or with a guided tour.

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Know Your AUSSIE SLANG No trip to Australia is complete without learning the local lexicon.

Here, a guide to some of the slang you’ll hear down under.

BARBIE: Barbecue TOGS: Bathing suit PASH: A long passionate kiss MOZZIE: Mosquito SHE’LL BE RIGHT: Everything will be all right SWEET AS: Sweet, awesome.

Aussies often use ‘as’ at the end of adjectives for emphasis.

RIGHT Urulu

Take a Wilderness Safari in Daintree National Park One of the most ancient ecosystems on the planet, Daintree National Park is in the far north of Queensland, and like Uluru, sacred to the local Aboriginal people.

With more than 18,000 plant species and a variety of animal species — including the Bennett’s tree kangaroo, cassowary, crocodile, giant blue Ulysses butterfly and the eastern water dragon — Daintree draws nature lovers to its astounding biodiversity year round.

The park features two main sections: Cape Tribulation, where rainforest meets white sandy beaches, and Mossman Gorge, where rock pools, granite boulders and the clear waters of the Mossman River are surrounded by lush forest. Guided safari tours are the best way to experience Daintree, as your guide can share details of the park’s significance, both biologically and culturally.

Tour the Wineries South Australia’s wineries produce more than half of the country’s wine, with a wide range of varieties made possible by the area’s diverse climate and geography.

With 18 wine regions and a multitude of vineyards accessible from Adelaide, wine touring is an excellent way to discover what makes these wines world famous while experiencing the beauty of the south.

Vineyards such as Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and Coonawarra are highlights of South Australia, as well as the Barossa Valley, which boasts some of the world’s best Shiraz, and the Clare Valley, where you can follow the ‘Riesling trail’ by bike.

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SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

FOX HARB’R.

THE RESORT FOR THE INDEPENDENT-MINDED. A hidden treasure lies on Nova Scotia’s Northhumberland Shore. What was once 1,100 acres of untamed woods and five kilometres of shoreline, has now been sculpted into an oasis of luxury, peace and unimaginable natural beauty. The vision of Ron Joyce is the result of a man falling in love with a piece of land close to where he grew up. As Nova Scotia’s premier five-star luxury resort, the Fox Harb’r legacy was born.

Located about 90 minutes from Halifax Airport, you can arrive at Fox Harb’r by land, sea or air. The resort has a 5,000 foot private runway along with a deep-water marina.

WORLD-CLASS GOLFING Graham Cooke’s award-winning course design complements the natural beauty of the setting with stunning land and seascapes. Fox Harb’r has garnered a number of esteemed awards and designations that affirm its position as a world-class facility.

SUMPTUOUS SPA Reawaken your spirit with rejuvenating treatments for women, men, and couples in the Spa and Wellness Centre. Swim in the Junior Olympic pool or exercise in the fitness centre with state of the art equipment.

SUPERB CUISINE Dining in the Great Room is a culinary experience or choose the pub-style Willard. Chefs source locally-farmed produce, meats and the finest fresh seafood from local shores. Recently, 25 acres of vineyards have been added to create a unique wine destination.

Many guest fall in love with the resort on their first visit and return annually. A fortunate few now call Fox Harb’r home and live within the gated resort’s community of luxury homes.

THE SPORTING LIFE Avid Sportsmen and women can take advantage of tennis courts, fully stocked trout ponds with fly fishing lessons or the sport shooting range re-designed by world champion Ben Husthwaite. Stroll the seawall along the shoreline or cycle the trails. A four season resort, winter offers cross country skiing and downhill at Wentworth Ski Hill about 20 minutes away.

HOSPITABLE BY NATURE Many of the over 150 staff are local and share their Maritime hospitality with guests. Smiles and waves are genuine and the staff are known to go out of their way with personalized service.

Nova Scotia

Speak with us about our current exclusive promotions at: foxharbr.com • 1-866-257-1801 Nova Scotia

*Prices and specifications correct at press time. E. & O.E.

Fox Harb’r Resort for the independent-minded

The breeze rolls in off the ocean and lifts your approach shot clear of the trap. Three strokes to the green. From the woods a flash of red shows that you have an audience. It’s Friday morning at Fox Harb’r. Tomorrow, the house will be full - a client and your family – but how will you spend this afternoon? Shiatsu at the Spa? Or fish for trout in the private stocked pond? Tomorrow you’ll go seal watching and then a splendid dinner in the Great Room. But right now, it’s just you and an uphill dog-leg left, silently studied by the eyes of a sleek red fox.

Oceanview Golf Villas from the $500’s Homesites from $200’s

Private jet airstrip | Private deep water marina | 63’ Ferretti Motor Yacht | 5 km of oceanfront with views of PEI 18-hole Championship golf course | Superb cuisine | Tennis | Spa and Wellness Centre | Junior Olympic Pool Fly fishing in stocked trout pond | Sport Shooting Course | Vineyard

Retreat to Nature EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK

By Melanie Furlong Photos Stephen Jess

I

magine waking up to the serene view of a crystal clear lake every day of the year. Bird song, the forest’s stillness, woodland animals and magnificent speckled trout are all part of the appeal of life at the Villages of Long Lake. The community’s residents are thrilled with their new permanent homes,

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which offer both the amenities of the city and the joys of lakeside living.

The lake, which gets its name from its eight-kilometre length, has more than 40 kilometres of lakeside frontage and 35 tiny, secluded islands perfect for visiting on a canoe trip or weekend picnic.

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

While one side of the lake is protected Crown land, the other is being developed in stages to offer new full-time residences.

Located just 20 minutes from Bedford off East Uniacke Road, the Villages of Long Lake is a project owner Bruce MacDow has been working on for the last 25 years.

MacDow, who has completed 53 land development projects prior to this one, has developed approximately 5,500 properties in Nova Scotia and PEI during his career. He’s built more than 1,500 Circa 1816 Heritage Country homes and cottages out of New Ross and Windsor using Nova Scotiagrown lumber to create everything from the exterior structure, cabinetry, finishes and trims.

MacDow is proud of all his beautiful development projects, but calls this one his pièce de résistance. “We recognized Long Lake as a gem back in 1990,” he says, “and have been working ever since to ensure this community is created with the least impact on the land as possible.”

Residents can choose from one of more than 25 Circa 1816 Heritage Country cottage designs built by MacDow’s company, Cottage Country, or choose another builder. Most are choosing the Circa 1816 Heritage Country Homes that

combine the timeless beauty of natural wood, the strength and durability of timber post, conventional and beam construction with energy efficient designs and materials. The homes recreate the look and feel of homes from the 1800s and the effect is charming.

Many residents are moving to the Villages of Long Lake in order to consolidate both their cottage and condominium properties. Buyers are arriving from throughout the province, Newfoundland and Labrador and other parts of Canada too, fulfilling their lifetime dreams of lakeside living.

For MacDow, seeing the smiles on his customers’ faces when he hands them the keys is the greatest satisfaction. “It might sound hokey, but it’s true,” he says. “It blows me away every time.”

Take a drive to the Villages of Long Lake and explore this beautiful spot for yourself!

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

The Villages of Long Lake 874 East Uniacke Rd. 902.866.0202 1.800.565.5263 villagesoflonglake.com

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YOUR VENUE BY THE SEA

Shining Waters Marine offers professional event planning services — from small business meetings to full package weddings. Located on the beautiful St. Margaret’s Bay, our unique floor-to-ceiling windows provide a picture perfect view from inside our dining and events facility. A stunning sunset, viewed from our full length deck, can make every event more magical!

We can accommodate up to 200 people and cater to any specific need, no matter how big or small. Our expert events team offers clients choice of décor, menus, floor plans, bar, ceremony location, and any other arrangements required to make their event a huge success.

Our event manager, Carolyn MacKay, meets with clients to discuss, and prepare, a bespoke package for their event.

Carolyn, and the client, will tour the facilities, and explore the client’s aspiration. She will review available choices, and offer suggestions, using her expertise to create a stunning event that exceeds expectations.

There are dates available for fall 2015, and we are already taking reservations for 2016 and 2017. We are ready to host your wedding, conference, business meeting, Christmas dinner, reunion, birthday or event of any kind.

Treat your guests to a wonderful celebration they will remember for many years to come!

902.820.3627 | 902.817.1555 | shiningwaters.ca |

Shining Waters Marine

Sutherlands Lake Area A HOTBED OF RECREATION

I

n recent years, an active community of outdoor enthusiasts has built up in the snow-belt area of Sutherlands Lake. Just off Highway 104 near exit 10, the area surrounding the shallow, spring-fed lake — which measures about half a kilometre wide and a kilometre long — was once a popular hunting ground. Nowadays, it’s known for its heavy snowfalls, beautifully groomed snowmobiling trails and high-end seasonal cottages.

While there are approximately 30 fulltime residents in Sutherlands Lake, about 200 seasonal dwellers also have homes in the area. One of its key draws is the expansive trail system, which runs about 250 kms in total and covers the area from Bass River to Oxford to Wentworth. These trails are kept in top condition throughout the winter season for snowmobilers to enjoy safely.

By Melanie Furlong

Peter Nelson, president of the Sutherlands Lake Trail Groomers’ Association, says they purchased a state-of-the-art grooming machine from Holland, N.Y., late last year. The trail paver is used with a John Deere tractor with Soucy tracks to groom faster and better while consuming less fuel. The $30,000 machine arrived in December 2014.

Nearby resident Mike Eddy, of the Nova Scotia Snowmobile Association, says it did a great job last winter.

“For snowmobilers, groomed trails simply mean a smoother, safer trail that gives you a nice, defined area to ride,” Eddy says. “Personally, I’ve been all over the province snowmobiling on some great trail systems and Sutherlands Lake does a great job.

They’re right up there with the top trail maintainers for sure.”

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

Snowmobilers from across the region take advantage of the Sutherlands Lake trails as they travel from as far as Bathurst, N.B. all the way to Cape Breton on the interconnected trail system. During the rest of the year, ATV riders enthusiastically use the trail system.

Action on the lake is definitely increasing too, with boats and sea-dos growing in popularity. In the summer, it isn’t uncommon to see 15 to 20 pontoon boats on Sutherlands Lake.

Although there are not a lot of opportunities to buy lakefront property, more people are buying land in the area to build homes and cottages all the time. There’s also been talk of a new development to be located behind the snowmobile clubhouse with 100 lots made available.

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Go from Mild to Wild at THE CAT SHACK

By Tonya Lambert Photos Bruce Jollimore

W

hether you want to conquer the open road, seize some snowcovered trails or master the backcountry, The Cat Shack in Truro has everything you need for some serious adrenaline-pumping fun. The Cat Shack is Nova Scotia’s largest Yamaha, Suzuki and Arctic Cat dealership with an enviable selection of both new and pre-owned ATVs, side-by-sides, motorcycles and snowmobiles. No matter what you want in a machine — strength or speed, power or performance — owner Paul Blenkhorn

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and his knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect match.

sales staff and factory-trained technicians is extensive.

In business since 2008, The Cat Shack has become known as the place to go in Nova Scotia for sales, service, accessories and apparel. With 15,000 square feet of retail and service space spread over two stories, as well as additional displays outside, The Cat Shack has plenty of motorsport machines, accessories and parts from which to choose.

They carry everything from spark plugs and snow flaps to helmets and hoses. In addition, the experience and expertise of their superior

Massive Motorcycle selection New and pre-owned, The Cat Shack sells the best bikes from the biggest brands. Whatever your preference, be it cruisers, sport bikes or dirt bikes, their knowledgeable staff will help you find the bike you’re looking for, along with any helmets and other gear you might need.

So whether you are a lone latter-day cowboy or part of a brotherhood of weekend warriors, The Cat Shack has the bike you need to add an element of excitement to your day.

SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL

the UltiMate MUd Machines: atvs & Utvs At The Cat Shack, you will find the ATV or UTV you need to embark on the ultimate action-packed outdoor adventure. Feel the thrill of tackling some treacherous terrain in a new ATV. Discover the power and pleasure of whipping across your worksite in a new UTV. Whether your new ride is for passion or for a more practical purpose, the knowledgeable staff at The Cat Shack will pair you with the perfect mud machine. select yoUr sled Winter is coming. Will you be ready to plow through the miles of pristine powder and carve through the many mounds of deep snow? Grab some winter riding gear from The Cat Shack’s vast assortment. Select your sled from their full line of Yamaha and Arctic Cat high performance snowmobiles, touring machines and trail sleds. Finally, choose a Triton or enclosed Haulmark trailer, load your new sleds and head to the hills. The Cat Shack is ideally situated near one of the province’s longest trail systems, so you will be enjoying the beauty of Nova Scotia’s winter landscapes in no time. And remember, their excellent technicians are always available to see to all of your service and maintenance needs, ensuring you experience the maximum amount of fun and freedom this winter.

Winter or spring, summer or fall, visit The Cat Shack in Truro for an unmatched riding experience. No matter what your power sport preference, they have the service and selection to take you from mild to wild.

The Cat Shack 70 Juniper Street, Truro 902.464.6942 www.catshack.ca

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FL

EXPLORE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

EXPLORE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY EXPLORE THE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY THIS FALL. Take some time this season to explore the Valley at its finest, the fall harvest. With family-friendly festivals, fascinating museums and theatre, the Valley truly has something for everyone. Its local restaurants with farm fresh food, romantic country inns, antiques and gift stores make for a perfect day or weekend trip. Experience its breathtaking scenery by driving along the spectacular Bay of Fundy or through orchards and farmland, play at world-class golf courses, cheer at the Pumpkin Regatta or discover hockey's birthplace.

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Windsor A Town for All SeASonS The fall is a colourful, exciting time in Windsor. As you meander through the Avon Region, enjoy the “gourdgeous” fall foliage, or sample seasonal specialties at the bistros, cafés and restaurants. Check out the annual pumpkin weigh-off, the Children’s Wish Pumpkin Parade and the world’s first and largest pumpkin regatta, where seasoned and novice paddlers manoeuvre their PVCs (personal vegetable crafts) 800 meters across Lake Pesaquid.

A cosy night in one of their charming country inns or bed and breakfasts, their distinctive shops, and friendly folks makes Windsor a great destination anytime of year. www.town.windsor.ns.ca 902.798.6679

BIG PumPkIn CounTry Visit Howard Dill’s Pumpkin Farm and see where “Atlantic Giants” are grown. This pumpkin variety started the international craze of giant pumpkin growing and rowing. There are more than 100 sites globally that compete in the annual Giant Pumpkin Commonwealth weigh-offs in October. The Dill farm, at 400 College Road, is open daily, September and October, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.howarddill.com 902.798.2728

wIndSor - weST HAnTS PumPkIn feSTIvAl 31st Annual Pumpkin Weigh-off Oct. 3 The Dill Farm 400 College Road, Windsor 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Rain date is Sunday, Oct. 4

17th Annual Pumpkin Regatta

Prizes awarded for: Heaviest Pumpkin, Heaviest Squash Heaviest Field Pumpkin, Longest Gourd and Heaviest Tomato GPC Howard Dill Award: Presented to the best looking pumpkin

On Sunday, Oct. 11, join in the fun with the world’s first and largest pumpkin regatta. Festivities get under way with the Children’s Wishmaker Parade at noon. Take a ride on the Tregothic Creek Miniature Railway before heading to the pumpkin carnival around Lake Pesaquid for the regatta start.

www.pumpkinregatta.com

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Town of wolfville ALWAYS COLOURFUL

Wolfville offers the quintessential blend of academic culture and smalltown charm. Home to one of the top ranked undergraduate institutions in Canada, the town welcomes back Acadia University students, faculty and alumni who contribute to the sophistication that is Wolfville living.

Wineries bustle with aficionados eager to explore the prestigious wine scene and taste the best selections the Valley has to offer. Downtown Wolfville transforms into a vibrant, cultural centre where visitors can enjoy pedestrian friendly shopping, indulge in a sweet treat from a Fair Trade certified coffee shop, or explore local artisan exhibits — all while enjoying the crisp, fall air.

nAtURAL ChARm

There is also plenty for the active traveller, as Wolfville showcases picturesque views of the Bay of Fundy and the agricultural landscape of the Valley. Whether you explore the area wearing your worn runners or blast past the colourful and breathtaking scenery on your street or mountain bike, Wolfville has more than 20 kilometers of groomed trails within its town limits, with links throughout the region.

For the novice and seasoned rider alike, Reservoir Park in Wolfville offers newly installed mountain biking trails that push riders to their limit. The crew at TrailFlow has developed two beginner, five intermediate and one expert level trail, plus a skills park. These trails are smooth, fast flowing, single track rides with several optional features to challenge your biking skills.

DRAmAtiC LAnDSCApeS

Have you ever witnessed 160 billion tonnes of seawater disappear and reappear? The Bay of Fundy boasts one of the richest marine environments and has the highest tides in the world, which can be seen at Wolfville’s Waterfront Park. With changing tides every six hours, the landscape of the Minas Basin changes dramatically.

You can plan a day trip to catch the water coming and going with plenty of time in between to recharge and indulge at one of Wolfville’s 16 and counting pubs, restaurants and cafés in the downtown area. “Wolfville is a cultivated experience for the mind, body and soil!” Check out Wolfville’s website to plan your visit. www.wolfville.ca

Deep ROOtS FeStivAL

The Deep Roots Festival is the largest music festival in the Annapolis Valley, and truly is the heartbeat of the Valley. For a musical and cultural experience that will leave you buzzing with good memories, plan to be in Wolfville for the next Deep Roots Music Festival Sept. 25 to 27!

For more information, visit www.deeprootsmusic.ca

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kentville Enjoy Fall outdoors

Whether racing through mountain bike trails or strolling through a sanctuary — thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts are at home in Kentville.

Smack in the heart of Kentville are some of the best mountain bike trails in Nova Scotia. Mountain bike riders flock to The Gorge to experience downhill rides through wooded rocky trails that challenge and excite.

Kentville also features quieter ways to enjoy being outside, including a bird sanctuary, protected marshland and 30 kms of trail through hardwood forest along old rail beds and amongst green spaces. Enjoy a slower paced way to get up close and personal with nature.

PumPkin PEoPlE Kentville’s Pumpkin People Festival is a month long annual festival featuring more than 300 Pumpkin People in 16 major displays. This year’s theme is “Lego” and you can expect to see pirates, astronauts, ninjas, minions, dinosaurs and the Simpsons! Event activities will kick off on Oct. 3 in Kentville’s Downtown with Harvest Fest. and include live music, food, farm vendors, Pumpkin Person building, activities for kids and good family fun, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Centre Square.

Visit Kentville.ca to plan your trip. This year’s festival runs Oct. 3-30.

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The Fall harvesT Known as the breadbasKet

of Nova Scotia, the Annapolis Valley is the prefect destination for family-friendly activities. Enjoy world-renowned events, such as the annual giant pumpkin weigh-off and the pumpkin regatta, or a stroll among the pumpkin people. Get lost in a corn maze, pick the perfect pumpkin, sit back and savour a glass of wine in a local vineyard, purchase fresh, local produce from a u-pick or farm market as you meander through the Valley.

Renowned for its apples, the Annapolis Valley is home to many farms, u-picks and vineyards that are popular destinations for those who want farm-fresh food or to experience where their food comes from.

Locavore restaurants pride themselves on using the same ingredients from the land throughout the Annapolis Valley and the Avon Region.

Tourists, residents and families can explore the richness of harvest time in the Valley.

Farmers marKets Windsor Farmers Market

Wolfville Farmers Market

Kentville Farmers Market

Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1p.m.

Windsor Waterfront (until mid December) windsorfarmersmarket@gmail.com

Saturdays, year-around 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. www.wolfvillefarmersmarket.com

Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Centre Square www.kentvillefarmersmarket.com

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Wine SeaSon iS Here!

AUTUmN bRINgS SWEATER WEATHER,

a fresh bounty of produce and wine in the Annapolis Valley. With more than 70 grape growers and 11 established wineries, Annapolis Valley ensures a flavourful variety for wine experts and the uninitiated alike.

The region offers a wide range of robust red wines that hold their own, but it is the sparkling white wines that have thousands flock to the region in delight.

The cooler northern grapes that grow in the agricultural and fertile landscape of the valley boast a taste distinctly Nova Scotian; clean, crisp, and refreshing, these wines of the area taste like home to many Atlantic Canadians.

TIDES IN!

Hailed as Nova Scotia in a bottle, Tidal Bay became Nova Scotia’s first appellation wine in 2012 and perfectly captures everything that makes our northern white wines so spectacular. This mix of local grape varieties are held to strict standards to ensure it meets the Tidal Bay seal of approval. The end product must have a taste profile that can be described as “lively fresh green fruit, dynamic acidity and characteristic minerality,” which pairs perfectly with seafood or a beautiful backyard barbecue.

devour!

HEART OF WINE COUNTRY

Each winery makes the most of the fall season by offering various events to celebrate the splendour of wine culture, as part of the Nova Scotia Fall Wine Festival, which runs from September to October. Stomp grapes at Jost, celebrate garlic at Avondale Sky, listen to Bluegrass at Luckett Vineyards, take in Oktoberfest at Planters Ridge or enjoy any one of the many other unique activities of the region. For more information, or to book a tour, visit our website.

Devour! The Food Film Fest serves up the latest from the world of culinary cinema, paired with wine tours, tastings, pop-ups and industry sessions, Nov. 4 to 8 in Wolfville. For more information, visit www.devourfest.com!

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Celebrate our community.

Celebrate our game.

Coming to Wolfville, November 28 & 29 Bring the family to celebrate hockey in your community!

Meet Ron MacLean and NHL alumni, show your community pride on live national TV, and enjoy live music, games and more!

IT’S ALL FREE!

Learn more at your local Rogers store

hometownhockey.com

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Town of windsor A Hockey Lover’s Delight

By Melanie Furlong

T

he Town of Windsor is known for many remarkable events and people. It’s home to some of the world’s highest tides. It was home to internationally known author Thomas Chandler Haliburton, whose literary creation Sam Slick has become synonymous with the town. And it’s the birthplace of giant pumpkins developed by farmer Howard Dill.

But for sports fans, its most important claim to fame is it’s the Birthplace of Hockey. Windsor was recently named

by Sports Illustrated as one of the Seven Wonders of the Hockey World!

There is near-irrefutable evidence that the game the world now knows as ice hockey had its humble origins as early as 1800 on Windsor’s Long Pond. It is in Haliburton’s writings that the first known reference to a form of ice hockey can be found: “The boys of Windsor’s King’s College School adapted the Irish game of hurley to the ice.” And hurley-on-ice developed over time into the internationally popular game of ice hockey, considered by most Canadians as their national sport.

In 1995, the town opened the Windsor Hockey Heritage Centre in the historic Haliburton House Museum. Here, visitors can see original artifacts such as leatherstrap skates, Mi’kmaq hockey sticks, trophies and more. Visitors can relive the original hockey era from its beginnings by visiting the museum’s Hot Stove Room and its Starr Trophy Room. Then they can get to know the stars of the early leagues and contributors to hockey’s past in the Roots Room, and stroll through the Locker Room with its original equipment and the Attic with treasured gems from hockey’s past to present day.

With the development of Long Pond as the Cradle of Hockey on the Dill Farm, interest in Windsor as the Birthplace of Hockey has increased tremendously. Seeing these connections to our rich past make history come alive for hockey fans of all ages.

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IL DOLCE FAR NIENTE

ESPRESSO BAR

Dolce Far Niente is an Italian expression that means, “the sweetness of doing nothing.”

At IL Dolce Far Niente Espresso Bar, they guarantee that from the moment you walk through their door you will leave everything else behind you. It is a “no Wi-Fi, just conversation” café, providing a relaxing atmosphere through music, the sound of their fountain and the plush comfort of red leather furniture.

In 1933, Francesco Illy set out to make the finest coffee the world had ever tasted — IL Dolce Far Niente proudly serves Illy coffee and Damman Frere teas. Each of their beverages is made to exact standards, ensuring consistent taste and providing an authentic Italian coffee experience to be savoured over and over again. From their cucina, they serve exquisite croissants, desserts, pastries, sandwiches and soups. It’s increasingly difficult to find moments of quiet and time for oneself, so come experience IL Dolce Far Niente Espresso Bar!

IL Dolce Far Niente Espresso Bar 16 Elm St., Wolfville 902.542.5307

wickwire place At Wickwire Place Assisted Living Residence, residents focus on enjoying their

retirement knowing they are in a safe and supportive environment.

Nestled in the beautiful Annapolis Valley in the heart of downtown Wolfville, Wickwire Place is conveniently located with many amenities close by. Go shopping. Take in a play. Browse the farmers market. Enjoy a meal out. Sign up for a course at Acadia University. Tour the beautiful Valley sights.

Visit a winery.

Tenants have the option to customize their chefprepared meals to their particular diet and appetite, and can choose how and when they are entertained.

Thanks to an onsite generator, not even the worst

Nova Scotian weather can interrupt our lifestyle!

Wickwire’s professional and caring staff can offer personalized care as needed for every client, and the result is a unique and fulfilling experience unmatched in the province.

30 Wickwire Ave., Wolfville 902.697.3040 ext. 5 wickwireplace@eastlink.ca www.wickwireplace.ca

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Planters ridge Nova Scotia’s newest winery is housed in a recently renovated 150-yearold timber frame barn that combines historical features with some modern flourishes. As an artisanal winery, they have invested in state-ofthe-art equipment to produce highly acclaimed wines worthy of the Planters Ridge label. From individual temperature control tanks to a topof-the-line destemmer and press, they are able to treat their grapes with the gentle touch necessary to allow them to express their true character.

They have selected varietals with a natural affinity to the unique terroir of the Annapolis Valley, which allows them to create uncompromising wines with a true sense of place. With a focus on blends, Planters Ridge has developed a reputation for crafting aromatic whites and well-balanced, silky smooth reds — and that is just the beginning.

Planters Ridge welcomes connoisseurs and new wine drinkers alike to experience the beauty of the Annapolis Valley from their stunning vantage point in Port Williams. Nestle into a chair beside the fire or enjoy the view from their breathtaking patio overlooking the vineyard and embrace a slower pace of life with a glass of truly great Nova Scotia wine.

With portfolio tastings available year-round, a licensed patio with small snack offerings, customized educational tours by appointment only, Planters Ridge invites you to taste the tradition and passion in every bottle.

* Find them at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market or Halifax Forum Farmers’ Market on Saturdays, and at the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market on Saturday and Sundays *

1441 Church St., Port Williams Open seven days a week during peak season!

Monday to Saturday — 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Sunday — 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Kings Arms Pub With 30 years of history behind it,

The Kings Arms Pub is a landmark in the Kentville community and Annapolis Valley.

With an emphasis on “Just Good Food,” owner Joey Murphy offers some of the best feel good meals you can find, which you can enjoy in a relaxed pub style environment or on the beautiful Victorian garden style patio.

Emphasizing meals that are completely made inhouse (right down to the mayonnaise), The Kings Arms Pub should be high on your list of stops while exploring the Annapolis Valley!

Kings Arms Pub by Lew Murphy 390 Main St., Kentville 902.678.0066

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CENTRESTAGE THEATRE

THE LITTLE THEATRE WITH THE BIG HEART

Fall is the perfect time to visit CentreStage

, a volunteer based community theatre with plays in continuous production for more than 30 years.

For September/October, CentreStage is pleased to present The Women of Lockerbie by Deborah Brevoort. The story takes place seven years after the Pan Am crash in Lockerbie, Scotland and reveals how human strength and love can triumph even in the darkest of times. Also in September, the Upper Performance Centre will come alive with Much More Munsch! You will “fall” in love with these stories again.

The matinees are on Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m., Sept. 12 -27. The 2015 season finishes with The Importance of Being Uncle Roscoe, a holiday comedy

by Pat Cook. All the Main Stage shows are on Friday and Saturday evenings with two matinees for each show.

CentreStage Theatre 61 River St., Kentville Tickets: 902.678.8040 Info: 902.678.3502 www.centrestagetheatre.ca

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FineHomes FALL 2015

HALIFAX

HGTV’S

SCOTT MCGILLIVRAY MAXIMIZE YOUR ROI WITH NEW APPLIANCES

A ROOM OF ONE’S OWN: DESIGNING YOUR MA’AM CAVE STONE: THE NEXT NATURAL STEP IN LUXURY FLOORING

AnnapolisValley Renaissance

Melding old world tradition with modern day features in a town and country setting!

Viking Homes welcomes you to be a part of the new and exciting Annapolis Valley experience.Viking Homes specializes in lifestyle living. Our company is dedicated to superb craftsmanship and strict architectural controls. Viking Homes has created stunning homes that are warm and inviting with beautiful focal points that bring family and friends together time and time again.

www.vikinghomes.ca info@vikinghomes.ca | 902.690.7510

WOOD

Just SoulSatisfying

Wood speaks to people in many different ways, telling a story of timeless beauty and enduring quality.

Furniture Countertops Flooring Siding Mouldings

At Amos Wood, we transform humble into extraordinary.

What can we make for you?

The 100 Year Side Table The cracked rounds are side table height. They are made from a block of ash used by a blacksmith that lived from 1896-1995. It was sliced into 6 pieces ~ for his son and wife, and each of their 5 children.

AMOS WOOD design | millwork | furniture

2445 Agricola Street, Halifax, NS (902) 407-7772 agricola@amoswood.ca 944 Hwy 325, Blockhouse, NS (902) 624-8206 blockhouse@amoswood.ca

AmosWood.ca

FH

HOUSE & HOME

MAXIMIZE YOUR ROI WITH

New Appliances

By Scott McGillivray Photos Richard Sibbald

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FINE HOMES

open wide enough to even pull out the drawers properly because there’s a wall in the way. Double door (or french door) fridges require even more space, so keep that in mind. Other things like counter height and depth need to be considered (especially for dishwashers), as well as counter allowance for slide-in ranges.

A

ppliances can make or break the look of a room. Replacing ’70s appliances with shiny, stainless steel models can bring a kitchen into the 21st century more effectively than any other upgrade.

Go Pro Just because you’re not a professional chef doesn’t mean your kitchen shouldn’t be professional grade.

Lines like the new Frigidaire professional suite come in standard sizes (minimizing or even eliminating the amount of renovations needed to install them) and are priced so the average homeowner can afford them. The great part about the aesthetic of professional style appliances?

They have a truly classic look that can seamlessly fit into any kitchen style.

Last But Not Least Jumping the gun on appliance purchases can cost you in the long run if you haven’t properly planned the space. Make sure you extensively plan the layout of your kitchen. If an 18-inch dishwasher just won’t cut it, make sure you delegate space for a full 24-inch model. Don’t get stuck with appliances you don’t like just because you didn’t plan properly.

Do sweat the smaLL stuff There are many small details that can slip your mind, or you don’t even think of in the first place. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen fridge doors that can’t

FINE HOMES

It’s easy BeING GreeN Old appliances have a financial and environmental cost. A new, energy efficient fridge can save you up to $200 a year, meaning you recoup the purchase price in a couple years. ENERGY STAR compliant dishwashers not only use 50 to 75 per cent less energy than older models, but also much less water – as little as three gallons for a full cycle. If three gallons sounds like a lot, keep in mind you can use almost 10 times that by washing dishes by hand. Front load washers can cost as little as $20/year to operate, and since 90 per cent of the energy used to wash clothes is spent heating the water, switching to cold water can make a noticeable difference.

DoN’t Let the eLectrIc sLIDe Appliances eat up a lot of the electrical bandwidth in your home.

Laundry and kitchen appliances alone can take up a big portion of your panel, and when you add in things like air conditioning, it can get tight. This is especially true if you have an income suite in your home, which means two kitchens and often two washers and dryers.

We recently shot an episode of Income Property where the homeowners ended up having to upgrade their electrical panel to accommodate the addition of a dishwasher and upstairs laundry.

This was above and beyond what they had planned to spend because it never occurred to them that their current electrical panel wasn’t sufficient. If you have a newer home, chances are this won’t be an issue. However if you’re buying an older home (like many in the core areas of most major cities), it’s something you may need to consider.

Check out the new season of Income Property Thursdays at 9 p.m. & 9:30p.m. ET/PT on HGTV CANADA. /EverythingScottMcgillivray @smcgillivray @scottmcg @scott_mcgillivray www.scottmcgillivray.com

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INCOME PROPERTY NEW EPISODE

THURSDAYS HGTV is a trademark of Scripps Networks, LLC; used with permission.

START WITH OPAL INTERIORS

Are you struggling with what to do with your space? Do you ask yourself “Where do I start?” Opal Interiors can help. We take a practical approach to decorating projects, without compromising on style or beauty. We listen closely to our clients’ needs, taste, style and budget, and offer a variety of interior decorating services, including:

TRACY CAMERON, owner, Accredited Interior Decorator

§ § § § §

Colour consultation and colour scheme development Product sourcing and shopping services Lighting, flooring, artwork and furniture selection and placement Custom bedding, rugs Custom hard and soft window coverings, including installation

Opal Interiors is a full service, interior decorating company that works with both commercial and residential clients.

902.221.5439 | opalinteriors@ns.sympatico.ca | www.opalinteriors.ca

Shaw Brick:

A Legacy Built on Tradition and Innovation

By Tori Stafford Photos Bruce Jollimore

W

ith more than 150 years in the industry, Shaw Brick truly is an Atlantic Canadian tradition. It’s likely one of the company’s building products has even been used on a property owned by you or your family.

But that doesn’t mean the company has remained traditional in manufacturing and design. In fact, Shaw Brick has continually evolved, developing new and innovative building and landscaping

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products since it began as Robert Shaw’s Brick Works in 1862.

“We’ve been committed to providing the best landscaping and masonry materials in the Maritimes,” says Andrew Pepper, manager of the Shaw Brick Dartmouth Retail Outlet.

From the very bricks that build a home to the stone surround of a fireplace or the walls of a manicured flowerbed, Shaw Brick offers a wide array of options in

FINE HOMES

residential landscape and masonry. At the Shaw Brick Dartmouth Retail Outlet, contractors, designers and homeowners can choose from a huge selection of designs, finishes and aesthetic qualities in natural and manufactured stone, for both indoor and outdoor use.

“We work with some of the best contractors in Atlantic Canada, but we are also certainly able to service the retail market,” says Pepper. “We are DIYfriendly and we want to make it as easy

as possible for people to do their projects.

We offer the resources and the tools, and our staff loves to help people out.”

With the cooler weather upon us, Pepper points out fall is an ideal season to take on or finish up landscape projects you’ll want in place next spring. Shaw Brick’s new Ledge Wall garden wall offers a natural stacked-stone wall appearance, but is designed for those looking to create and install their own flowerbeds with ease. With design options available online, and the ability to build straight or curved walls, the Ledge Wall is one of many garden wall and patio stone options Shaw offers.

Shaw Brick’s K Block is another new design that’s changing the way retaining walls are not only built, but also how they appear. The natural-looking, lightweight big-block style block requires less

manpower and machinery than most big blocks on the market, and is designed to allow for airflow and drainage while retaining heavy materials.

If you’ve already completed your outdoor projects for the year, Pepper points out another project many take on during this season. Fall is the perfect time to install a fireplace — it’s not too hot, and the fireplace can be ready for use in the winter.

With the largest selection of thin veneer in the Maritimes, Shaw Brick can help make the fireplace surround and hearth you’ve always wanted, with both natural stone and concrete veneers available. Whether classic, modern, rustic or industrial, Shaw Brick can help you find products to suit your style, and point you in the direction of professional installers, if need be. It’s all part of continuing to help build a beautiful space for each client, the same way the company itself was built: ‘Brick by brick.’

Shaw Brick Retail Outlet 5 Ralston Ave. Dartmouth 902.468.7429 dartmouth@shawbrick.ca www.shawbrick.ca

ABOVE L-R Alex Taylor, Tim Hubley, Jennifer MaKay, Andrew Pepper (manager), Alex Maes FINE HOMES

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Windows to Walls

– Seeview Has You Covered

By Kari Mitchell Photos courtesy of Hunter Douglas

Y

ou are miles away on vacation and realize you forgot to close the blinds in your home.

Anxious? No! You smile, reach for the phone, press a few buttons and presto — the blinds are closed. Next, you program the window coverings in different rooms of the house to move at different times, giving the impression your home is occupied.

Is this for real? “Yes!” says Richard Coldham, owner of Seeview Blinds and Shutters in Dartmouth. “The future is now.”

Hunter Douglas designers are constantly surprising consumers with new, exciting and convenient innovations in window

fashions. The latest from Hunter Douglas is PowerViewTM Motorization — a completely new system of wireless communication. Window coverings can be controlled with the handheld Pebble Remote, the Surface Wall Mount Remote or the PowerViewTM app. All of these options come in a variety of stylish colours. These alternatives provide your home or business with enhanced light control, energy efficiency and a cordless operation system that creates a safer environment for young children and pets.

The Art of Window Dressing™ is supported by great design. PowerView Motorization is available on a multitude of products, including the Alustra®

Collection — an exclusive mix of window treatments with sophisticated design and unparalleled style.

“We have the opportunity to show our clients premium products only available through exclusive dealers,” says Coldham. “The Alustra collection has exclusive lifting systems, fabrics and finishes to coordinate with your unique home furnishings.” Materials and textures are handpicked from around the world and incorporated into the highest quality Hunter Douglas products.

The Alustra® Vignette Modern Roman Shades, for example, offer exclusive features such as fabric-covered head ABOVE LuminetteTM Privacy Sheers by Hunter Douglas

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and bottom rails, which combine the soft elegance of drapery with the function of a shade. The Alustra® Collection from Hunter Douglas provides discriminating buyers with the finest in materials, design and value — from fine woven textures to metallic to elegant sheers.

From windows to walls, Seeview Blinds and Shutters has you covered. Wallpaper is back in style and they are pleased to announce an exciting, new product.

High quality, luxurious wall coverings from Brewster Home Fashions provide superior collections that bring style and colour to life. Today’s wallpaper is easier to manage and selections include retro, mod, vintage, classics, wood, tile, and

rock textures. Whether for accent walls, stair risers or ceilings, just a little bit of wallpaper can make a big difference in your décor.

TOP LEFT SilhouetteTM window shadings; TOP RIGHT PowerViewTM control systems CENTRE RIGHT PirouetteTM window shadings, all by Hunter Douglas BELOW Courtesy of Brewster Wallcoverings.

Voted “Best Customer Service” by Houzz in 2015, Seeview Blinds and Shutters professionals are certified specialists who pride themselves in excellence. They offer high quality products and superior service. Contact them for your free inhome consultation.

Seeview Blinds and Shutters 50 Tacoma Dr., Dartmouth 902.422.1231

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Negotiating the Sale

Jonathan Ladha RE/MAX nova 6363 Lady Hammond Road 902.233.7059 jladha@remaxnova.ca

H

ave you ever been to a busy marketplace outside North America and wondered why everybody seems like they are arguing? Well, they may not be arguing or upset. They are negotiating every single item that is for sale. Vendors love seeing us Canadian tourists come toward them, and rightfully so, as we are so darn polite and kind that we won’t really negotiate with them, but rather pay what they want to charge.

Negotiating just isn’t engrained in our Canadian culture, but thousands of dollars can be saved or lost on one of the few items that is negotiated in Canada: houses. It’s imperative to have a good negotiator on your side in a real estate transaction.

Even though Canadians don’t get a lot of negotiating practice, we still have to perform when it comes time to negotiate the most important purchase in a person’s life. Negotiating should not feel

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negative or argumentative. It should be done strong, but fair, and with purpose.

There will be an element of compromise on both sides of the deal, but both can get what they want!

Yes, believe it or not, it is possible to get a win-win situation even in the no-fly zone that is below what the seller wants to accept and what a buyer is willing to pay. If you pay your price, maybe it was more on their terms; but if you pay their price, hopefully it was on your terms. What about the deals where the buyer paid on or above the asking price and on the sellers’ terms? Sometimes houses are priced competitively, and if it’s an income property with positive cash flow, than it’s a win already for the buyer. There should be no party feeling like they have been taken advantage of, and there should be a strong element of collaboration between the real estate professionals representing the seller and buyer in order to find that common ground for their clients.

A Room of One’s Own Designing Your Ma’aM Cave

By Henny Buffinga

I

n A Room of One’s Own, Virginia Woolf wrote “a woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction.” This sentiment holds true for more than just writers. Having a refuge from the others in your home is a must; in fact, many psychiatrists recommend having a personal space where you can retreat to maintain healthy relationships. While the style and function of a home is usually dictated by the sum of its inhabitants, it is ideal to have a place to call your own, whether that be a small reading nook or your very own “ma’am cave.”

In 2012, the Merriam-Webster Dictionary added the term “man cave” to its pages, defining it as “a room or space (as in a basement) designed according to the taste of the man of the house to be used as his personal area for hobbies and leisure activities.” If this term was defined over three years ago in the dictionary, why is there still no official equivalent for women?

“Women are busier than ever, working full time, looking after loved ones and their home,” says Peggy Reid of Reid and Siemenson Design Group. “Now more

than ever we need a space in the house that we can call our own, where we can decompress and which provides our own sanctuary. It doesn’t matter the size. The important thing is that it becomes a place of joy and escape that we can call our own!”

A ma’am cave can be anything you want it to be, but most of all, it’s a place you can relax and pursue your own interests, from yoga to crafting to simply reading a book. Since it is a place to enjoy yourself, it is the ideal space to get creative and personalize it to your own style.

TOP Pippin wallpaper focus dps. Photo Sanderson

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When you’re planning your design, Reid suggests first deciding what activities you will be using the room for, since that will dictate how you use the space. If you practice yoga, you will need to allow yourself sufficient floor space. Try using soft, muted colours and candles. Reid loves the Mint Tisane/Meditation Room candle by LAFCO. If you plan to do a lot of reading or writing you will need the proper lighting, a task chair and a desk.

Because this room is all about taking some “me” time, comfort is key. Try to incorporate comfortable seating where you can read or listen to music. Surrounding yourself with pieces that inspire you will not only elevate your mood, but also reminds you of the good things in life. Reid suggests incorporating framed family photos, works of art, and favourite accessories into your design. Instead of the usual office supplies, try being creative such as using coloured glasses as pencil holders or painting an old cabinet turquoise for a hit of colour.

You can also try incorporating your favourite colour, either on the wall or with accents throughout the room. This room is also a great place for wallpaper to help you really define your style.

“If you love nature, try something fun like Schmacher’s A-Twitter which features a graphic branching tree with a flock of song birds,” Reid suggests.

Ultimately, this space is about what makes you happy. Make the design your own, and let the daydreaming begin.

TOP LEFT Poppies mauve ultramarine wallpaper with chair. Photo Sanderson TOP RIGHT Zanzibar Collection by Clarke & Clarke BOTTOM LEFT Wisteria Blossom WP Main_med Photo Sanderson BOTTOM RIGHT LAFCO Mint Tisane/ Meditation Room candle

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Locally Made Solid Wood Funiture Custom Built Options

386 Windmill road, dartmouth • 902.465.5000 • www.lakecitywoodworkers.com open Monday – Saturday 9–5pm, Sunday 12–5pm

Experience Halifax’s Finest

RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS

By Trina Annand Photos Stephen Jess and Bruce Jollimore

One of the best things about living in Nova Scotia is having the ability to enjoy and explore the province’s 13,300 km of coastline.

Imagine finishing a long day at the office and escaping to your own seaside oasis just minutes from downtown Halifax — this is the promise of Boscobel on the Arm. The luxury seaside development will provide 24 homeowners with the opportunity to enjoy a coastal lifestyle along one of the most visually stunning stretches on the east coast.

Originally part of an expansive estate, Boscobel has been developed by IMP Group Ltd. to feature a number of estate-sized lots that range from 8,000 sq. ft. to one acre, creating the perfect plot for a spacious dream home. This upscale community was planned with the utmost reverence to nature, with underground utilities to ensure an uninterrupted view from both the ocean side and ocean view lots.

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B

oscobel on the Arm is truly a community for those looking to embrace the natural splendour of Nova Scotia. Bordered by the sea, the development is surrounded by mature forests and a wetland area. Perfect for active nature lovers, the community offers parkland, a network of walking trails that connect to Sir Sanford Fleming Park and its most scenic feature, the Dingle Tower. Those looking for a more seafaring adventure can take advantage of The Armdale Yacht Club and The Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron and enjoy the province’s coastal beauty from the water or in a welcoming club setting.

The community of Boscobel on the Arm feels like a secluded enclave, providing the convenience of an easy commute to the city. Understanding that no one

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wants to delay their dream home, IMP has created pad-ready lots just waiting for a homeowner to take the space to new heights. With protective covenants, the community will offer unique luxury homes with their own style. The developer currently has one home for sale and has just sold the show home.

65 Boscobel Rd. $2,475,000 (including tax) Part of the original estate, this extensively renovated waterfront home features cedar cladding and approximately 100 ft. of waterfront, offering breathtaking views of The Arm from every room.

The incredible kitchen features granite counters, a large island and Wolf stainless steel appliances. Upstairs showcases a phenomenal master suite, including an ensuite with zen tub and stunning

FINE HOMES

natural light from large skylights. This three-bedroom, four-bath home features a theatre room and lots of storage with potential for a wine cellar.

“Imagine yourself where east coast sunrises paint the sky in a wash of watercolour, and little waves gently ebb and flow along the shoreline.

Where skiffs sail by on the tide leaving bobbing seabirds in their wake.

The quiet calm of your urban seaside hideaway will refresh your senses, and the aroma of salt spray air will guide you home. When you live here, every day is a wonder.”

Whether at work or play, life is within reach at Boscobel on the Arm, with schools, green space, downtown and coastal amenities all only minutes away.

When life becomes about more than deadlines and a long commute, amazing things can happen. With a luxurious dream home at Boscobel on the Arm, extraordinary adventures happen every day.

Boscobel on The Arm 902.489.4083 www.boscobelonthearm.ca info@boscobelonthearm.ca

In addition to the homes at Boscobel on the Arm, the developer has a spectacular waterfront home only a kilometre from Boscobel on the Arm. 382 Purcell’s Cove Rd. $4,750,000 (+HST) This newly built home with approximately 12,000 sq. ft. offers a sophisticated sense of style with a stone facade, attached garage and marble and hardwood flooring throughout. A true entertainer’s kitchen features six appliances and luxurious finishes. Each of the five bedrooms has an ensuite bath, with seven total in the home. With an extraordinary master suite that must be seen, a home theatre, library, spacious gym and a hidden wine cellar, there is no end to this home’s versatility and entertaining potential. top photo by Chris Dickson FINE HOMES

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The Art of Stone

New Location on Chain Lake Drive

By Melanie Furlong

A new collection of beautiful, exotic marble from Greece and Brazil is in store at The Art of Stone. The dramatic red, grey and black stones have varying amounts of white marble or crystal, giving each its own unique character.

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T

hese remarkable pieces of marble are part of the everchanging stone selection available at The Art of Stone.

The store, which opened in May, consists of a 20,000 sq. ft. showroom and workshop that sells and installs fabricated granite, marble, onyx, soapstone and other stones.

Natural stone can be used in an endless array of options. Marble countertops, back-splashes, showers and coffee tables make your personal style come to life. Use onyx to create stunning dining tables, feature walls and even place it in windows where its translucence takes on the appearance of stained glass. Consider

FINE HOMES

Photos on this Page by Bruce Jollimore

granite — in a myriad of colours — for kitchens, vanities and fireplace mantels.

Beautiful porcelain tiles from Spain and Italy are on hand as well as tiles in marble, granite, slate, travertine, quartz and onyx.

The skilled staff at The Art of Stone can make anything from dramatic interior and exterior stone steps to small pieces of polished stone for the kitchen — think cutting boards, cheese boards or decorative slabs for coffee.

Pricing is reasonable and inventory is moving quickly.

A variety of stone vanity styles made in onyx, granite, marble and engineered stone have been fabricated for display in the store and are ready to install. Stone

sinks and vessels, made onsite, as well as colourful glass vessels and an array of luxury faucets are also available.

Local sculptor Vasilis Vasili creates unique stone vessels, some of which are on display, and custom-made stone sculptures for home or garden can be ordered.

If you’re having trouble deciding what style and materials would look best in your home, The Art of Stone’s onstaff interior decorator will be happy to give complimentary consultations.

Bring in photos, paint chips and fabric samples and discover which stone suits your décor.

FINE HOMES

“Our store has a huge selection of colours and high quality products,” says owner Peter Giannoulis, “as well as the professionals and craftsmen to select, fabricate and install exactly what you need. Our mission is to give our customers the best product knowledge with excellent customer service, affordable prices, skilled workmanship and quality products.”

The Art of Stone 130 Chain Lake Drive Halifax 902.406.7338 admin@theartofstonehalifax.com www.theartofstonehalifax.com Open seven days a week 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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Stone

By Henny Buffinga Photos ANN SACKS

E

voking memories of rustic English farmhouse kitchens, stone tile has come a long way.

In a time when so many flooring materials do their best to imitate natural products, there’s something luxurious about having the real thing.

One of the most popular choices in stone flooring is limestone, whose characteristic colours include neutrals such as off-white, beige, tan, taupe and a light blue/grey. While it is a durable stone, it is relatively soft and can be susceptible to staining. A heavy-duty sealant can fix

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The Next Natural Step in Luxury Flooring

those problems, however, it will need to be reapplied every few years.

For a traditional and elegant look, marble is a great choice. What was once the choice of kings is much more accessible today, giving an old-world elegance to the home. Marble is a metamorphosed limestone, which gives it a hard surface that can take a high polish. This glossy surface looks especially pristine in a kitchen or bath where the tile can be continued on the wall.

Travertine is a luxury stone tile that, with the proper milling and sealing, can be

FINE HOMES

a gorgeous addition to any home. The characteristic colours of travertine are offwhite, beige, tan and yellow, and it makes a great choice for hallways, entrances and living spaces. Its matte finish provides a warm look and feels soft underfoot.

Stone tile flooring works well in any season, whether you’re looking for the cool touch of stone in the summers or the luxury of heated tiles in the winter.

Adding a touch of the old world and nature to your home, stone tile is a great investment.

Quality Craftsmanship and Great Design Within Reach

By Trina Annand Photos courtesy of Portland Custom Millwork

Home renovations can be a rewarding and stressful time for a homeowner. Challenges can increase dramatically when your project is a kitchen or bathroom, as restricted access to these rooms dramatically impedes everyday life. With so many steps involved to create any dream space, it pays to work with a project manager who can handle any chaos that may arise; ensuring your project stays on time and budget.

Dana Wright

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A

t Portland Custom Millwork (PCM), clients can rest assured knowing they will get exactly what they are looking for in both style and quality craftsmanship. “Our clients don’t need to worry about design, engineering, hiring plumbers or electricians, because we handle it all,” says owner Dana Wright.

“I am hands on. I am at every project reviewing progress, working with clients.

Communication is the key to success on any project.” With more than 25 years of combined experience and a network of highly trained and skilled plumbing, electrical and flooring subcontractors, PCM offers clients custom renovations that seamlessly integrate into the rest of the home and the homeowner’s lifestyle.

Upon entering a PCM space, visitors will immediately notice the fine craftsmanship

and extraordinary attention to detail, as well as the streamlined stylish design.

“We thrive on finding creative and stylish solutions for our clients, whether residential or commercial,” says Wright.

Working internationally with modern designers and architects, PCM has cultivated a unique sense of style all its own — an approach that has garnered them a strong word-of-mouth following.

“Dana and his team at Portland Custom Millwork Limited transformed our dark basement that we never used into our favourite room in the house. The only issue we have now is we want to redo our kitchen and bathrooms so they are as nice as the basement,” says client Tom Gilgan.

Regardless of budget, PCM is dedicated to maximizing the potential of clients’ spaces with innovative ideas. “Your

FINE HOMES

home is much more than where you sleep, and whether you are creating your dream space or renovating a transitional home, custom millwork can make all the difference in the world,” says Wright.

From custom bars and kitchens to unique walk-in closets and tailored baths, the extraordinary quality of PCM’s work is evident from the moment you enter a space. No project is too big or small for the experts at PCM. Call today to explore the potential of your space.

Portland Custom Millwork Suite 103, 101 Thornhill Dr. Dartmouth 902.405.4660 Fax: 902.405.4661 info@pcmltd.ca www.pcmltd.ca

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FRAMING | DECKS | GARAGES

When Thinking About Building a Deck, Think Blue Ridge Builders Specializing in Custom-Built Decks, Garages and Home Framing

For your FREE estimate, call Blue Ridge Builders Inc. at 902.209.9418

70 Karels Drive Fall River 902.209.9418 blueridgebuilders.ca

15 years experience

Akerley Blvd.

Burnside Dr.

Marketplace Dr.

Rainmaker Dr.

Wheelhouse Rd.

Windmill Rd.

Seapoint Rd.

Wright Ave.

ge Brid Kay Mac

200’s

Waterfront $ Village Condos

SALES OFFICE

HWY

111

from the mid

SALES OFFICE & MODEL: 50 Marketplace Drive, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 0K1

902-481-2300 HOURS: Monday - Thursday: 12-6pm Friday: Closed/ By Appt.

Weekends & Holidays: 12-5pm

For up to the minute information join us on

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Seapoint at Harbour Isle

F

NOW OPEN

ollowing the success of the first phase at Harbour Isle — a luxury residential building called the Hazleton — the second phase recently opened to the accolades of an excited public. Phase two is Seapoint Condominiums, an inspirational collection of luxury condos, lofts and town homes on Halifax Harbour, the first condo building at the landmark Harbour Isle Waterfront Village.

Developed by Elm Developments (Toronto) and local Halifax developer John Ghosen, Harbour Isle will eventually include four condominium buildings, four apartment buildings and a neighbourhood commercial sector.

According to David Osypowich, head of planning and development at Elm Developments, “Once you’re on the property, you shouldn’t have to go anywhere to do your grocery shopping or any of your personal needs. You could live, shop, work and play there.”

Harbour Isle is located on the Dartmouth waterfront, flanked by the Yacht Club and Burnside Business Park. According to Kourosh Rad, an urban planner with WSP who got involved in Harbour Isle a few years ago, the planning focus is on creating a community. He believes it’s an excellent location. With few residential options in the area, the 18,000 employees at Burnside Business Park will welcome an alternative to long commutes.

A brand new public transportation terminal is planned adjacent to Harbour Isle, providing residents with fast access to buses throughout Dartmouth and Halifax.

Seapoint Condominiums offer stylish suites, beautiful architecture and a full roster of active lifestyle amenities. You can choose from one-bedroom suites of 810-940 sq. ft. or 1,207-1,736 sq. ft.; two-bedroom suites, some with dens, between 1,274 and 1,712 sq. ft.; twobedroom townhouse lofts and 1,5201,687 sq. ft., three-bedroom townhouses.

FINE HOMES

Features include nine-inch ceilings, stylish gourmet kitchens with stainless steel appliances, gorgeous quartz countertops, glass backsplashes, spa-inspired bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows and wide plank laminate wood flooring.

Suites at Seapoint offer large balconies with glorious views of Bedford Basin, the city skyline and the neighbouring Dartmouth Yacht Club. “It’s set on probably the most breathtaking, picturesque cove in all of Halifax,” says Osypowich.

While the sizes and prices of the suites vary, most one-bedroom units fall into the $219,900 to $280,900 range, making them extremely affordable.

Seapoint will have a fully-equipped fitness centre, a heated underground parking garage for those cold winter months, a party room with full catering kitchen, a barbecue patio and a hotel-style guest suite for overnight visitors.

There are beautiful seaside pathways for walking, jogging and biking as well as a path that leads directly to the Dartmouth Yacht Club.

Denise Stevenson of dh Design and Keri Koch of Design360 have designed the interior of the stunning model suite.

Stevenson says they drew inspiration from the nature in the area, especially the water.

“It’s right at your doorstep,” she says. “Not many developments really have that.”

The Seapoint team is aiming to have construction started in fall 2016 and ready for residents by spring 2018. For more information, visit the presentation centre and model suite.

Seapoint at Harbour Isle 50 Marketplace Drive, Dartmouth 902.481.2300 Open Monday to Thursday: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Friday: Closed Or by appointment, weekends and holidays: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. www.gettheseapoint.com

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Seasonal Relocation Service Finds Snowbirds New Nests (Hybrid Seasonal Workplaces)

By Terrance Brennan

I

n the summer edition of Fine Life Style Halifax, I introduced a new real estate service to help Atlantic Canadians sell their homes and find winter accommodations south of the border. By all measures, Atlantic Canada has seen more than its fair share of ice and snow these past few winters. Unfortunately, according to global warming modelling, this is one trend that is not going away anytime soon. For most of us, winters were hard enough without the added burden of wild, unpredictable weather dropping record amounts of snow and freezing rain (often simultaneously), and leaving a sea of white concrete burying

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sidewalks, roads and cars. While there is little we can do in the short term to reverse this trend, we can look at lifestyle options which may spare us the brunt of winter’s discomfort.

BIRDS OF A FEATHER I know I am not alone in dreading what’s to come after fall, and the dilemma of what to do about it. For those who can’t afford annual winter vacations it can be a problem. After all, not everyone is getting ready to retire. Fortunately, technology has provided flexibility in today’s workplace. People can now work from

FINE HOMES

Terrance Brennan TOP Going to work, March 18, 2015 photo

by Tim Krochak of Catherine Fitzsimmons shoveling out her car on Hillside Avenue.

BELOW Coming home from work, Feb. 15, 2015 photo by Ryan Taplin of cars slowly making their way through a giant puddle on Robie Street in Halifax. Photos republished with permission from The Halifax Herald Ltd.

•

Looking for a hideaway retreat and a private beach?

• Looking for a fixer-upper and have family and friends who want to help out? There are still many deals in the offering (including repos).

• Looking for no fuss accommodations?

Perhaps a condo in a fitness park is right for you.

• Looking for your own little cabana next to a private beach?

• Looking for your own dockside hideaway?

• Looking for a Caribbean cottage or corporate condo?

Exit South Snow Bird Service can help make this happen! home, online and via cell phone, allowing them the opportunity to adapt to a hybrid, seasonal workplace environment. Like true snow birds, I suggest migrating to remote office locations (your winter home). Think of it as a working vacation.

This is something that can be adopted by individuals and corporations alike.

WINTER PRODUCTIVITY? Can we afford this? What about the lower Canadian dollar?

$249,000 Orlando, Florida 3 beds, 3 bath | Condo

$439,000 Key Largo, Florida 2 beds, 2 bath | 1166 Sq. Ft.

$995,000 Key Largo, Florida 3 beds, 3 bath | 2784 Sq. Ft.

One of the least mentioned downsides to winter working conditions in Atlantic Canada is the loss of productivity in the workplace. Were we to replace lost time battling inclement weather with (billable) hours, the conversation about affordability would dramatically be altered. In addition, through working with our southern associates, Exit South Snow Bird Services have cost cutting measures ranging from fractional purchase options (time share) to income from property management (rental during off season). To better target property suitability, email me at terrybrennanrealestate@gmail.com to request a survey that will help us identify the best fit for you. With hundreds of prescreened listings, we can find a solution that’s right for your lifestyle.

Exit Real Estate Professionals Terry Brennan, CNE | 902.452.5298 # 91 Sackville Drive, Suite # 206 Sackville, NS B4C 2R3 terrybrennanrealestate@gmail.com

TOP LEFT & BELOW At work in hybrid seasonal workplace FINE HOMES

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Is Your Kitchen Looking Tired & Outdated?

We Can Transform Your Kitchen By refacing your cabinets, we can completely transform the look of your kitchen in two to four days at half the cost of replacing them.

Call Cabinetworks today for a FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION.

902.468.8118

cabinetworks.ca |

| 75 Akerley Blvd., Dartmouth | info@cabinetworks.ca

RE/MAX nova

PROFILE

TOP ReaLtoR

Jonathan Ladha FIND YOURSELF A TOP REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL On Aug. 25 at 11:30 p.m. there were 3,765 single-family homes for sale on MLS in Halifax.

The average price was $363,018 and on average they were on the market for 142 days.

A small percentage of these homes — the best deals and smartest purchases — will sell in the first 24 hours of being listed. There are nearly 1,200 real estate agents in Halifax rifling through the listings to find the right ones for their buying clients, but there are thousands of tech-savvy buyers leveraging the mass of information available to them.

Real estate is a competitive marketplace, and the best REALTORS® in this business are sharp and on standby around the clock. I work aggressively to try to get my clients the first viewing on their desired homes, and know how to make a home for sale stand out above the pack.

JONAThAN LADhA RE/MAX nova 902.233.7059 jladha@remaxnova.ca

There are thousands of houses out there; and each one is unique in some way. When a great deal comes to the market there will most certainly be more than one buyer interested in that property, and so the race is on to see which REALTOR® can get all of the relevant information and data to their client first so they can make the most informed decision. It is better to have the choice to cross it off the list or make the winning offer.

There are some great REALTORS® out there that provide excellent value to their clients.

The biggest similarity between houses and REALTORS® is that once you find the right one, you just know it, and you should hang on to them. Top REALTORS® will make a busy and important time in your life enjoyable and profitable.

ON ThE MARKET 631 Main St., Mahone Bay $959,000

LISTING AGENT Rick Foster, Royal Lepage atlantic

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Valor Windsor Arch Gas Fireplace

www.valorďŹ replaces.com

No Power, No Problem During the next power outage ensure your family stays warm with the dependable, radiant heat of a Valor gas fireplace. By zone heating a specific space in your home, you create a central area for the family to remain warm, safe and comfortable.

Valor fireplaces are fully functional heaters that don't use electricity. Our products provide efficient warmth, designed to heat your home without a fan or power supply.

Engineered to circulate air through natural convection, Valor fireplaces are highly efficient without a fan - providing reliable heat, even during a power failure.

HERITAGE HEARTH

124 Chain Lake Drive, Bayers Lake Park

Where Warm Traditions Begin!

902.454.9512

PRODUC T S L I M I T E D

Mader’s Roofing Is More Than a Shingling Company If you want your residential or commercial flat-roofed building to be re-roofed properly — with the materials it needs to make it a viable, lasting roof system — Mader’s Roofing is the company to do it. The quality, flat-roof installers have more than 25 years experience installing residential and commercial roofing systems.

These include hot asphalt applied systems, two-ply, three-ply and built-up insulated systems, as well as Q-deck, mechanically fastened and insulated flat roofing.

No matter what your roofing needs, Mader’s Roofing is up to any job.

MADER’S ROOFING 902.830.4236 | Lower Sackville www.madersroofing.com info@madersroofing.com Larry Mader

Custom Renovations

www.jlclements.com | 902.406.4778

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