Ancaster
NICOLE AND CHRIS CREATE AN EXCEPTIONAL LIFE
Cover Photo by Donna Waxman Photography
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PUBLICATION TEAM
PUBLISHER: Cecilia Tripp CONTENT COORDINATOR: Allison Dempsey DESIGNER: Rainy Whittaker CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Donna Waxman, www.donnawaxmanphoto.com
ADVERTISING
To advertise in Ancaster, Dundas, Flamborough, Stoney Creek, Waterdown, Hamilton Mountain or City of Hamilton, please contact Cecilia Tripp. Email: ctripp@bestversionmedia.com
CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES:
Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month for the following month’s issue. October 1 deadline for November issue.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Emergency (Fire, Police, Ambulance)..........................…911
Hamilton Police (non-emergency calls)….......905-546-4925
Ontario Poison Control….............................1-800-268-9017
Domestic Abuse Help Line….......................1-888-743-5754
Crime Stoppers Hamilton…905-522-8477 OR 905-522-TIPS
MEDICAL & HEALTH NUMBERS
Hamilton General Hospital...........................…905-521-2100
McMaster University Medical Centre Hamilton 905-521-2100
St. Josephs Hospital Hamilton.....................…905-522-4941
St. Josephs URGENT CARE Hamilton…..........905-573-7777
LOCAL COMMUNITY NUMBERS
City of Hamilton General Inquiries..............…905-546-2489
Hamilton SPCA.............................................…905-574-7722
Animal Control Dispatch..............................…905-574-3433
Hamilton Wentworth District School Board…905-527-5092
Hamilton Wentworth Catholic District School Board….............................................................905-525-2930
Ancaster Community Services..........................905.648.6675
*Please note that these numbers are subject to change without notice.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, ratepayers or homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability
Dear Residents of Ancaster,
Welcome to October, Ancaster! It’s no secret that autumn is my favourite time of year, and there are plenty of events to help celebrate it.
Whether it’s the Dundas Studio Tour, the wonderful annual Rockton World’s Fair, or the Little Wiggler’s Halloween event at Battlefield House, October offers plenty of events to help residents get out and get involved.
Check out the open house at UROSPOT Ancaster, the Indigenous Cooking Workshop at Dundurn’s National Historic Site and, as a special treat, local — and world-renowned — pianist Valerie Tryon’s special performance on her 90th birthday. You won’t want to miss it!
This month you can read about adding adult children or family members to bank or investment accounts from Wendy Tompkins of RBC Dominion Securities; honouring a loved one courtesy of Jim Panoff from Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home; how to treat magnolia scale with tips from Arborwood Tree Service, and important information for women from UROSPOT.
There's also some great advice from Mehdi Motevalibashi of Bashi Homes on renovations, expansions and second-storey additions you don't want to miss.
We also have a spectacular feature story about local residents Nicole Rakowski and Chris Sulowski, their lives and numerous incredible accomplishments.
As always, we want to remind Ancaster residents about sharing your thoughts, suggestions, and what you'd like to see more of in the upcoming issues — we can’t do this without you!
Thank you to everyone for being a wonderful part of the Neighbours of Ancaster community. Welcome the final month of summer, and join us here in November!
Cecilia, Allison, Rainy, and Donna
Neighbours of Ancaster
MEET OUR EXPERTS
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Home Renovations
MEHDI MOTEVALIBASHI BASHI HOMES 416-854-4566
mehdi@bashihomes.com www.bashihomes.com
IG: smileymehdi
Certified Arborist ANDREW HORDYK
ARBORWOOD TREE SERVICE INC
ISA-CA-0218A, TRAQ 1582, CUVM 007 Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton & Niagara 905-957-5663 info@arborwood.ca
Funeral
JAMES (JIM) PANOFF
Managing Director
DODSWORTH & BROWN FUNERAL HOME
ANCASTER CHAPEL | 378 WILSON STREET EAST jpanoff@arbormemorial.com
905-648-3852
Funeral
ROBERT CSELE
Advanced Planning Funeral Director
DODSWORTH & BROWN FUNERAL HOME
ANCASTER CHAPEL | 378 WILSON STREET EAST rcsele@arbormemorial.com 905-648-3852
Financial Planner
WENDY TOMPKINS RBC WEALTH MANAGEMENT Investment Advisor 905-312-2909 wendy.tompkins@rbc.com
Fitness
PAUL BEATTIE ORANGETHEORY FITNESS
905-304-8300
ancaster.orangetheoryfitness.com Orangetheoryfitness Ancaster @OTFAncaster
Auto and Residential Window Film Solutions
YAN ILIC ELEVATED FILM SOLUTIONS 289-527-1393
www.elevatedfilmsolutions.ca info@elevatedfilmsolutions.ca
Pilates
DEBORA HUME, OWNER
CLUB PILATES ANCASTER 905-547-7785
www.clubpilates.com/location/ancaster ancaster@clubpilates.com
Jewellers
JEAN-PIERRE VERBUNT ANCASTER JEWELLERS 905-648-6011
88 Wilson St. W, Ancaster ON L9G 1N2 jp@ancasterjewellers.com www.ancasterjewellers.com
Jewellers
RUSSELL VERBUNT ANCASTER JEWELLERS 905-648-6011
88 Wilson St. W, Ancaster ON L9G 1N2 Russell@ancasterjewellers.com www.ancasterjewellers.com
Pelvic Health Clinic
LORI ROBINSON UROSPOT ANCASTER 1280 MOHAWK ROAD 289-443-2200 ancaster@urospot.com urospot.com/ancaster-lpc/
Realtor
CINDY MURRELL-WRIGHT REMAX ESCARPMENT REALTY INC.,BROKERAGE 905-807-2073
cindymwhomes@gmail.com www.cindymwhomes.com
“Feel free to call anytime to discuss”
Photographer DONNA WAXMAN DONNA WAXMAN PHOTOGRAPHY 905-536-2705
www.donnawaxmanphoto.com donnawaxmanphotography@gmail.com
Tax & Accounting Services
PETER LEMMOND
PETER'S ACCOUNTING & BOOKKEEPING 35 Honeysuckle Crescent, Ancaster 905-572-7675
peter@petersaccounting.ca www.petersaccounting.ca
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By Wendy Tompkins
Should You Consider Adding Adult Children or Family Members to Your Bank or Investment Account?
As part of the estate planning process many clients consider adding a secondary holder to their accounts. If this is your spouse, no income tax implications exist in transferring ownership to include them as joint with the right of survivorship. However, if they are your adult children (must be over age 18) or other family members, CRA considers this to be a deemed disposition, even if you are not selling the underlying investments to accomplish this. So there may be income tax implications in accomplishing the joint ownership.
We see many clients requesting to add family members to a bank account, or investment account to make it easier for them to assist with paying bills and making decisions. What clients do not understand is you are changing the ultimate ownership of these funds to be joint with right of survivorship! You are giving up control of these assets once you pass away, and the ownership changes to the survivor! Your Will does not take precedence.
CRA has now changed the rules around joint ownership with adult children or family members. If the joint owner, does not transact on these accounts on their own behalf, is it really a joint account for ownership purposes? With these changes, CRA is considering these accounts to be “Bare Trusts.” There is a new tax filing requirement, and you should consult a tax professional to see if you have created a “Bare Trust” without realizing you have done so! You will need to file a trust income tax return, in addition to your regular tax filing. CRA will charge penalties if you do not file on time.
RBC Dominion Securities has a new Estate Planning Investment Account. It is a Joint-Gift of Beneficial Right of Survivorship (JGBRS). This account facilitates the retention of the primary accountholder of legal and beneficial ownership of the account, including the assets of the account, during their lifetime, while gifting the beneficial entitlement to the right of members named as successor accountholder(s). The terms of the RBC Dominion Securities client account agreements governing the JGBRS account expressly state that the intention of the accountholder at the time of account opening is to make an inter vivos gift at the time of opening, of the beneficial entitlements to the right of survivorship in the account.
Neither the account nor the assets therein are gifted at the time of opening. This means that the successor account holder (s) does not have any entitlement to or control over the account or the assets until the death of the primary accountholder. The successor accountholder(s) is not permitted to provide any instructions in relation to the account while the accountholder is alive or to withdraw funds from the account. The accountholder retains sole control of the account during their lifetime. No deemed disposition occurs by moving assets into this type of account In kind. Please reach out to ask any additional questions you may have.
It is important that you discuss this matter with a qualified legal advisor before opening a JGBRS account..
The content in this article is for information purposes only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. It is imperative that you obtain professional advice from qualified tax and legal advisors before acting on any of the information in this article. This will ensure that your own circum-
stances are properly considered and that action is taken based on the most current legislation.
This information is not investment advice and should be used only in conjunction with a discussion with your RBC Dominion Securities Inc. Investment Advisor. This will ensure that your own circumstances have been considered properly and that action is taken on the latest available information. The strategies and advice in this report are provided for general guidance. Readers should consult their own Investment Advisor when planning to implement a strategy. Interest rates, market conditions, special offers, tax rulings, and other investment factors are subject to change. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable at the time obtained but neither RBC Dominion Securities Inc. nor its employees, agents, or information suppliers can guarantee its accuracy or completeness. This report is not and under no circumstances is to be construed as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. This report is furnished on the basis and understanding that neither RBC Dominion Securities Inc. nor its employees, agents, or information suppliers is to be under any responsibility or liability whatsoever in respect thereof. The inventories of RBC Dominion Securities Inc. may from time to time include securities mentioned herein. RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2022 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved.
Creating retirement income
Investment Advisor Wendy Tompkins specializes in working with retirees to create more income in retirement. Her personal approach to planning allows individuals to understand what their future will look like.
Wendy Tompkins, PFP
Investment Advisor & Financial Planner
RBC Dominion Securities wendy.tompkins@rbc.com | 905-312-2909
RBC Dominion Securities Inc.
© Best Version Media
DODSWORTH & BROWN FUNERAL HOME
By Jim Panoff
Honour a Loved One for All Time
The Wall Of Memories
Create a lasting tribute to your loved one by inscribing their name on our new Wall of Memories at Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home — Ancaster Chapel.
Our team is currently accepting names for our inscription ceremony planned for Fall of 2025. If you would like to honour a loved one with an inscription, offered free of charge, we invite you to fill out the form on our website to schedule an in-office appointment to confirm the details of your inscription.
*No purchase necessary. Actual wall may not be as shown.
Request an Inscription
Complete the Request an Inscription form on our website at www.dbancaster.ca to request a free inscription for your loved one on the Wall of Memories. We will contact you shortly to arrange a time to confirm the details of your inscription. Please note that inscription spelling must be confirmed and signed for at Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home — Ancaster Chapel. For more information call us at 647-797-9334.
New Funeral Home Coming In 2025
This new home will offer modern facilities, innovative options and a caring service. We believe you and your family deserve ev-
JAMES (JIM) PANOFF
erything we can offer to ensure you a uniquely meaningful goodbye that’s more personal and comfortable.
Find A Timeless Place To Remember At Our Sister Cemeteries
Being a part of Arbor Memorial means we have both local funeral homes and cemeteries which can help simplify making arrangements. Our sister cemeteries offer family, friends, and future generations the invaluable benefit of permanent commemoration spaces, for connecting and reflecting.
White Chapel Memorial Gardens
Proudly serving Hamilton and the surrounding area, White Chapel Memorial Gardens will help you customize your arrangements, while respecting your faith, taste and budget. Some of our offerings include:
• Cemetery grounds set against the magnificent backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment
• Traditional burial gardens, with beautiful features and ornamentation
• Cremation Services at City of Hamilton's only crematorium
• Many cemetery memorial options, such as above-ground columbarium and indoor glass-front niches
1895 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 1J2
Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens
At Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, we share a proud heritage serving Stoney Creek, Hamilton and the surrounding area. You can feel confident putting your trust in our com-
passionate professionals, whether planning ahead or at a time of need. Some of our services include:
• Traditional burial gardens, with beautiful features and ornamentation
• Cremation services
• Tranquil cremation gardens
• Above-ground columbarium niches
• Memorial benches and trees
• Many gardens including The Christus Garden, Muslim Garden & All Faith Garden
Chapel Hill Road, Stoney Creek, ON, L8J 0B5.
Funeral
Managing Director
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Ancaster REAL ESTATE
Raymond Road, Unit #31
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent's ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
“Cindy Murrell-Wright was recommended to us recently and we ended up buying and selling with her. Amazing, hard working woman who works very hard to meet your needs. Very efficient and professional always quick to keep you updated and respond to all your questions and concerns. Cannot say enough about her expertise and knowledge and would recommend her as a real estate agent without question. One of the best!”
~Val & Tony, Stoney Creek, Ontario
Wed, Oct 2
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Calendar
UROSPOT Ancaster Open House
@UROSPOT Ancaster
Come visit the business located at 1280 Mohawk Road where they’re having a draw for a free treatment valued at $2,000. If you book a consultation that evening you will receive one free maintenence valued at $300. Light refreshments will be provided.
Time: 5:30-8pm www.urospot.com/ancasterwww.rbg.ca
Sat, Oct 5 to Sun Oct, 6
Ancaster Mineral, Bead & Jewellery Show
@Ancaster Fairgrounds
Ancaster Gem, Mineral, Bead and Jewellery Show is perfect for rock hounds and rock collectors with a wide range of minerals and lapidary equipment. Check out original hand crafted jewellery. Visit the demonstrations and seminars. Free parking.
Time: 10am-5pm www.ancastergemshow.com
Sat, Oct 5 & Sun, Oct 6
Dundas Studio Tour
@Dundas Studio
This year’s theme of community explores how we, as artists, acknowledge, experience and celebrate community. As artists our ongoing associations with groups, guilds and schools ignites the creative process as art is a living thing that grows and changes over time, constantly evolving and changing through community inspiration.
Time: 10am-5pm | Cost: FREE www.dundasstudiotour.com
Wed, Oct 9
Little Wiggler’s Fall Pumpkins
@Battlefield House Museum & Park
Join Hamilton Children’s Museum staff at Bat-
The Portable Feast at Home
Personalized culinary coaching and consultation taught by a career chef and teacher in the heart of old Ancaster. A new venture from The Portable Feast at Home. Contact us at Mistyingraham@sympatico.ca to begin the conversation and let your culinary adventure begin, or soar to new heights!
Fiddler’s Green Road, Ancaster Mistyingraham@sympatico.ca
tlefield House Museum to explore pumpkins. Connect, learn and create through adult-facilitated and child-led activities. This themed program provides hands-on experiences to support expression, exploration, and social development for children including story time, songs, movement and discovery centres.
Time: 10-11am
www.hamilton.ca
Thurs, Oct 10 to Mon, Oct 14
Rockton World’s Fair
@Rockton Fairgrounds
Get the family together for a good old-fashioned time at the fair when the Rockton World's Fair returns this Thanksgiving weekend. With everything from amusement rides, fair food, livestock shows, craft sales, and a demolition derby, there is fun to be had throughout the entire weekend. Make Thanksgiving memories to last a lifetime at the Rockton Fair this year.
Time/Cost: See website for details www.rocktonworldsfair.com
Sat, Oct 12 to Sun, Oct 13
Annual Thanksgiving Herb Giveaway @Dundurn National Historic Site
Don’t miss your last chance to visit the Historic Kitchen Garden before it closes for the year. Drop by to enjoy the fall colours and pick up a free savoury herb bundle to use for your Thanksgiving celebrations (while supplies last).
Time: 12-4pm
www.hamilton.ca/dundurn
Thurs, Oct 17
A Life in Music: Valerie Tryon at 90 @Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Join Daniel Vnukowski, the host of Classical Jukebox 96.3FM, as he engages in conversation with Valerie Tryon, renowned international concert pianist. Experience Tryon’s memories and
musical selections from her illustrious career as we celebrate her 90th birthday!
Time: 7pm
www.memorialarts.ca
Thurs, Oct 17 to Thurs, Nov 28
Expression Through Colour
@Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Each student will select a landscape subject that emphasizes a dramatic use of colour. The student's 16" X 20" acrylic painting on canvas will be created with special attention being paid to good composition and colour-mixing. All materials will be supplied during this 6 week course.
Time: 6:30-8:30pm | Cost: $180 www.memorialarts.ca
Wed, Oct 23
Little Wiggler’s Halloween
@Battlefield House Museum & Park
Join Hamilton Children’s Museum staff at Battlefield House Museum to explore the imagination of Halloween. Connect, learn and create through adult-facilitated and child-led activities. This themed program provides hands-on experiences to support expression, exploration, and social development for children including story time, songs, movement and discovery centres.
Time: 10-11am
www.hamilton.ca
Sun, Oct 27
Soupreme! An Indigenous Cooking Workshop
@Dundurn National Historic Site
Mohawk Chef Tawnya Brant returns to our historic kitchen for another incredible hands-on experience, taking us on a journey preparing traditional and inspired Indigenous soups! Recipes include a traditional white corn soup (gluten free/ contains pork), Pickerel and Wild Rice Chowder (contains dairy/gluten) and her own “Haudenosaunee Minestrone” (vegan/gluten free).
Time: 10am-12:30pm | Cost: $75 www.hamilton.ca/dundurn.
M© Best Version Media
By Allison Dempsey
Volunteering for Good: Notes from Merrill Carmichael
errill Carmichael — a local Ancaster resident who has volunteered at the Dzikwa Trust Learning Centre in a very poor township outside Harare called Dzivarasekwa — has not only visited all seven continents and 97 countries, but was asked to teach world geography to Grade 8 and 9 students there. She made a commitment to go every two years, and in June 2024, the Canadian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Adler Aristilde, heard about her volunteer work there and wanted to meet her, taking her out to lunch.
Merrill’s work and volunteerism has expanded — in 2018 she was financially supporting only one little girl, but since then, her financial support has increased greatly.
She was particularly touched by the plight of senior students who had worked so very hard to achieve the marks for university or college entrance. Several of them had received acceptances, but had no hope of ever attending university/college without a benefactor. Their families live in a very poor suburb of Harare where families subsist on $3 USD per day so of course, there is no funding from families. There is no such thing as a student loan and unemployment of young people is very high so they have no hope of working and saving up money. Many of them simply give up hope and go into the military or take a minimum wage job.
Merrill decided to do something about it. She financially supported Tendai Mikioni and helped put him through four years of law school at the University of Fort Hare in South Africa. She is also financially supporting other Zimbabwen university students: Livingstone Mazovere (studying at the India Institute of Technology); and Tatenda Nyamangoda (studying at the University of Zimbabwe). She continues to financially support Tendai Mikioni as well, as he pursues a PhD in Intellectual Property law at the University of Cape Town in South Africa. She has financially supported all of these students without benefit of a charitable tax deduction.
Merrill decided to do something about it. For the past several months she has worked with Myriad Canada to set up a Donor Advised Fund, to provide funding for worthy Zimbabwen senior level students who have been accepted into university/college but are not able to go without funding. Myriad Canada is a registered Canadian charity with a number of
projects, with each project providing a CRA tax receipt for donors. Merrill has endowed the Myriad Canada Educational Support for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Zimbabwe project with $100,000 of her own money to get it started. The project has been vetted by Revenue Canada and all donations of $10 or more will receive a charitable donation receipt from Myriad Canada.
Myriad Canada and Children of Zimbabwe Society are pleased to be working together. You can support this project here: www.myriadcanada. org/en/project/educational-support-orphans-vulnerable-children-zimbabwe/ where you will receive a donation receipt from Myriad Canada.
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COVER FEATURE
By Allison Dempsey | Photos by Donna Waxman
Escape the Ordinary:
NICOLE AND CHRIS CREATE AN EXCEPTIONAL LIFE
Living in the heart of Ancaster where Jerseyville meets Fiddler’s Green meets Lovers Lane meets Wilson Street, Nicole Rakowski and Chris Sulowski — along with “Fur Babies” Akeela, an eight-year-old King German Shephard, and two-year-old Titan, a Presa Canario — have created a life filled with travel, work, innovation and enjoying plenty of time together outdoors.
While the couple has resided in Ancaster for two years, Nicole grew up in the Ancaster/Dundas area, appreciating all the quaint town had to offer, including stunning conservation areas and the numerous trails and waterfalls “unlike any other city.”
“We found the perfect home for our family, with a big secluded backyard and many lovely neighbourhood trails to walk through,” says Nicole. “Whether we’re walking our dogs or riding our bikes, we love how connected Ancaster is to nature as well as its small-town feel. We met several neighbours this summer at our massive garage sale, and hope to meet even more in the months to come!”
The couple is just getting to know their new community, she says, adding they have been to the Goodlife on Wilson and the Crunch Fitness on Main Street, but Nicole trains mostly out of Pure Muscle and Fitness in Burlington.
“We’re looking to join other like-minded athletic couples in the community, so if you see us walking our dogs and have a nature-focused fitness-friendly community activity you are a part of, please come and share it with us.” She says. “We would love to say hi! We have also enjoyed getting to know many local businesses, such as the Creations Gallery, Ancaster Laser Medispa and the Ancaster Mill.”
Married at the beautiful Ancaster Mill on August 11, 2023, Nicole and Chris met while both working for Hamilton Health Sciences. Chris, who graduated high school as the top graduate in Toronto from the Toronto Catholic District School Board, went on to do his Bachelor of Science in Human Biology at the University of Toronto (U of T), followed by medical school there, and a pediatric residency at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, where he also completed his Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship. He then started his medical career at McMaster Children’s Hospital as an assistant professor, going on to become the Deputy Chief
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academia to train both locally and internationally — in Switzerland, Turkey, and South Korea — in aesthetic medicine, and is a clinical trainer for various companies. He’s also a medical director for several nurse injectors throughout Ontario and currently works at a medical spa in Port Credit.
Nicole, a visionary entrepreneur in the field of wellness, has emerged as a prominent figure at the age of 32. Graduating top of her class during her McMaster undergrad in Life Sciences she completed her Master of Global Health as valedictorian with a specialization in healthcare management and is currently pursuing her PhD through the McMaster DeGroote School of Business in Health Policy and Administration.
of the Pediatric Emergency Department there, followed by Associate Professor at McMaster, and finally Medical Director of Pediatric Emergency Medical Services at Hamilton Health Sciences and Division Head of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at McMaster Children’s Hospital.
Most recently, Chris has stepped away from
As the co-founder, Chief Fitness Officer, and Strategic Industry Expert of Fitsentive — a groundbreaking fitness app — Nicole has made unparalleled contributions that have earned her a coveted spot on NYC Journal’s prestigious Top 40 Under 40 list for 2024.
Through Fitsentive, Nicole’s visionary approach to wellness has revolutionized many industries, completely transforming the way individuals approach their wellness journeys.
“Fitsentive is the only free fitness platform
that not only motivates users but also provides a source of income for trainers,” she says. Developed to help motivate and empower individuals to “get off the couch” and start becoming more physically active, to date, the app has more than 6,000 users, 300+ workouts, 20+ exercise categories, and 85+ certified trainers.
As a competitive athlete, accomplished bodybuilder, and woman of influence, Nicole has also graced the covers of prestigious international publications such as STRONG and Muscle Memory Magazine. She’s an internationally recognized keynote speaker, is part of the Speakers Bureau of Canada, has given two TED Talks this year, and spoke at the United Nations Peaceful Co-Existence Summit this past June.
(Continued on page 12)
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Entrepreneurs Herald ranked her among the Top 20 Women Entrepreneurs to Take Inspiration From in 2024, recognizing her as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Today, renowned as a world-class speaker, Nicole has become an inspiration for the next generation of leaders worldwide, with her passion for academia evident as she pursues a PhD in Health Management at McMaster University, and continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in her field.
“I’ve been an avid gym goer for years, and have competed and won at several bodybuilding competitions,” she says. “We both spend what little free time we do have at the gym. A typical date night involves a healthy meal, a workout, and an escape room — we’ve done more than 30 already!”
They also love spending time with their two beautiful — and very big! — dogs Akeela, and Titan.
“They are gentle giants so feel free to come up and say hi!” Nicole says. “They do, however, struggle with making other furry friends, so best to approach without your own fur baby if you have one.”
Nicole and Chris work very closely with each other, growing a private aesthetic medicine practice that includes skin care, neuromodulator treatments, dermal fillers as well as skincare machines to help clients achieve a healthy, refreshed look, available via mobile services, which truly differentiates themselves from hundreds of businesses.
“We are truly each other’s best friends,” Chris says
“And even though Chris is more than a few years older than I am, we had very similar upbringings," Nicole adds. "Both of us are only children, born to immigrant Polish parents who instilled in us a hard work ethic from the beginning.”
They both play classical piano, although Chris took it further and won the Ontario Provincial Piano competition three years in a row before deciding not to pursue piano performance as a career. They are also both athletic, although Nicole takes the lead as a well-known athlete and in addition to bodybuilding, she loves to wakeboard and is sponsored by major companies such as PVL.
“We also love to travel,” says Nicole, who has visited more than 66 countries herself, and together have travelled to South Korea, Turkey, Switzerland, the Dominican Republic, and the U.S.A. as well as more rural northern parts of Ontario. “We don’t have an annual trip just yet but we’re always looking for our next adventure. In December 2024, we plan on travelling to Dubai.”
They’ve also experienced many memorable moments including skydiving together over the Welland Canal, scuba diving in the Dominican Republic, and conquering numerous escape rooms.
“There are truly too many to list! We truly love travelling together and just got back from South Korea!”
Embracing their motto of “Comfort is the enemy of being exceptional at something,” Nicole and Chris have truly created a life together that stands out. If you happen to see them around town, be sure to introduce yourself.
“We’d love to meet you,” Nicole says. “Come over and say hi and don’t be afraid of our dogs!”
INC. By Noah Frigault ON-2759A | Images supplied by Noah Frigault
All About Magnolia Scale (Neolecanium cornuparvum)
Magnolias are an exceptional show stopper in the urban landscape. In Southern Ontario, they are a small to medium sized tree, ranging from 10 to 30 feet tall, depending on the variety. They are most recognized for their beautiful flowers that range in different colours and sizes. Their foliage is a light shade of green and their bark is gray and smooth. Unfortunately, owning these trees may come at an extra cost, as they are the host species for Magnolia Scale.
FACTS
The Magnolia is the only host species for Magnolia Scale. Most common types of Magnolias in southern Ontario are Saucer, Lily and Star. There are many other varieties or hybrids that are less common but all are still equally at risk of Magnolia Scale.
The Magnolia Scale is one of the largest scale insects in Southern Ontario. There are two categories, soft and armored or hard shell scales. The easiest way to compare the two is the presence of a sticky substance called honeydew. This is only produced on soft-shelled scales. Soft scales are also larger than armored scales.
Heavy infestations will cause a decline in the host tree. Multiple years of infestations will cause complete fatality of the host. The honeydew left from soft scales can also grow a black sooty mould. This will stain the tree in black and can create a mess underneath the canopy. The honeydew is sweet and will attract other insects. The most common nuisance is wasps.
INSECT LIFE CYCLE
Per season, there is one complete life cycle or generation of the Magnolia Scale. Starting with the nymph, this is when they
are overwintering in branches of the host tree. They will overwinter here from September to July. Depending on the weather, they will emerge in the month of July. The males and females will mate, continuing the cycle. The males die soon after mating while the females remain a short while later to give birth to our next stage which is referred to as the crawler stage. This takes place in August - September. The crawlers will again find branches that are typically 1-2 years in age and overwinter till July of the following year.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
In small infestations, where the Magnolia scale is found on select branches, pruning and removal of these branches will help cut the cycle of the pest. In moderate to heavy infestations, pesticide sprays are an option. A Dormant Oil in the Spring will help reduce infestation. A Insecticidal Soap or Dormant Oil may also be used in the early parts of the crawler stage from August to September. ARBORWOOD TREE
At Arborwood, we’re a team that’s passionate about tree care. From tree pruning and feeding, to safe removal and planting. If we aren’t up in a tree, we’re learning more about them.
Armored Scale on Magnolia. Burlington ON
Infested Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). Soft shell scale at maturity.
Spooky Halloween Eyes
It’s almost Halloween! If you’re looking for an easy – and affordable – craft to do on your own or with your kids, we have your covered.
We’ve personally done this craft every year for the past four years and it always garners attention and admiration. Just collect your paper towel/toilet paper rolls and you’re good to go.
What You Need:
What to Do
• Paper towel or toilet paper rolls
• Sharp scissors or knife
• Glow sticks
Meals on Wheels
• Hot & nutritious lunchtime meal delivered by volunteers up to 5 days/week (Mon-Fri)
• Each meal consists of a soup, entrée, and dessert for $8
• Specialty diets (eg diabetic, celiac) may be accommodated
• Daily visits provide peace of mind FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER FOR THE PROGRAM
• Take those paper towel/toilet paper rolls and carve “eyes” into them with scissors or a sharp knife.
• Insert glow sticks – shaken or cracked – and position in bushes.
• Enjoy while scaring trick’er treaters!
Please call 905-648-6675 or
or
T© Best Version Media
By Zig Misiak
If You Grew Up in Ancaster, You Remember When…
his is the title of our Facebook site dedicated primarily to those who attended what was then called Ancaster High and Vocational School (AHVS). It has morphed into being more inclusive with specific rules of membership.
Our family on this site is over 5,700. Ken Goodings has been a friend since the ‘60s and a wonderful partner maintaining the integrity of this site which is daily under attack by trolls. With many alert and helpful members we’ve been able to repel all of them unless there are “sleeper cells” among us (LOL).
I moved to Ancaster in 1961 two years after AHVS opened. Coming from Brantford I was not a part of any circle of friends that moved into Grade 9 as a group from their respective schools. I meandered around pretty much being invisible trying to melt into, and blend into, a huge student body adjusting to a new academic system as well as a very different social demographics.
Principal Davidson and Vice-principal Leader where at the helm of our academic vessel. I think all of the teachers have named and characterized by our members. It’s so delightful and rewarding to read the individual memories and experiences we had not just with them but between ourselves.
AHVS, and Ancaster overall, was to me a Shangri-La (dictionary definition: a remote beautiful imaginary place where life approaches perfection). At my tender age of 77, now back in Brantford again, I still think that to be
true. I drive through Ancaster on my way out of town as often as I can. It energizes me.
I was not an athlete, though I tried, nor was I a socialite, though I tried, nor was I a good student in which case I did not try. AHVS was a turning point in my life. Teachers such as Mr. Rumball became role models. He introduced me to the military, RHLI in particular, and this affected me in a myriad of positive ways all my life.
Those of my generation will remember that our passing grade was 65. We also had to pass every subject in order to move forward. Well, I failed chemistry one year and I was held back. I went to summer school but I was distracted by Paddy Greens on the other side of the street and I had to repeat my entire year. I can’t even explain to you how humiliating that was. My classmates moved forward and I sat with students who, on the first day of school, thought I was their teacher.
Ken and I are so pleased to that our/your site has developed into a “bridge-building” experience. To see hundreds of friends find one another and to forge the years that separate us from 1959 to the present into one large family with a common background, experience and goals.
Even though I was ranked among the worst of academic students I was inducted to Ancaster’s Wall of Distinction. I am truly, and I mean truly, humbled being among others that I know deserve to be there more than I. Well, being mature now I’ll close by saying “so ha ha.”
ANCASTER HISTORY
In Partnership With The Ancaster Township Historical Society
The Cost of Living in 1910 Ancaster
This is the Copetown Store on Governors Road circa 1910. The automobile in foreground belonged to proprietor David Lawson. As can be seen in the other photograph, this was also a local post office.
A sign in the window promotes Salada Tea. The Salada Tea business was founded in Toronto in 1892 by Montreal-born businessman Peter Charles Larkin. His main innovation was to replace tea sold loose from tea chests with a product packaged in foil.
You could purchase coffee beans for 34 cents per pound, tea for 37 cents per pound, maple syrup for 34 cents per quart, cheese for 10 cents per pound, you could mail a letter with a two-cent stamp and the most inexpensive automobile cost approx. $825.
By Daryl MacTavish, Programme Co-ordinator,
Fieldcote Memorial Park &
Museum/Griffin
MUSICIAN'S CORNER
VHouse National Historic Site. Photos supplied by Daryl MacTavish.
By Allison Dempsey
Quartetto Gelato — Tasty Tunes is Here!
irtuosic showpieces and romantic ballads, blazing Romani tunes and forgotten chestnuts, all brought to life with multiinstrument mastery: this is Quartetto Gelato—a popular and highly unusual classical quartet.
With sold-out performances in New York, Washington, L.A., London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and elsewhere, this dazzling ensemble has enchanted audiences and critics worldwide with its exotic blend of musical virtuosity, artistic passion and humour.
With a performance repertoire that spans the globe and includes classical masterworks, engaging vocals, and the sizzling energy of tangos, Romani and klezmer songs, the group’s theatrical stage presence and relaxed humour establish an intimate rapport with audiences worldwide. Quartetto Gelato would like to acknowledge the generous support of FACTOR & the Canada Council for the Arts. To view this amazing group for yourself, be sure to check them out on October 10, at the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre.
Pelvic Health Clinic
LORI ROBINSON
UROSPOT ANCASTER
urospot.com/ancaster-lpc/
LBy Lori Robinson
The One Word Every Woman Should Know
adies, we‘ve been let down. Women have not received enough education about pelvic health.
For most women, the first time they hear the word prolapse is AFTER it happens to them. This must change.
WHAT IS PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE?
When one (or more) of your pelvic organs (bladder, uterus and rectum) have fallen out of place inside your body. When the organ falls out of place, it takes up space inside your vagina. Most women describe it as a "bulge." Are your eyes bulging right nowt
HOW COMMON IS THIS?
Prolapse affects 30% of women between 2059 years of age and more than half of women over 50 years of age. When something affects more than 50% of the female population, we deserve to be more educated about what it is, how to treat it and how to prevent it.
HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN?
The pelvic organs are supported by a critical "shelf" or "hammock" of muscles called the pelvic floor. If these muscles are not able to do their job efficiently, prolapse can be the result. Prolapse can be mild or severe. When it‘s mild (stage 1-2), the bulge is higher up inside the vagina. When it's severe (stage 3), the bulge can go all the way down to the vagina opening. At stage 4, the bulge is external to our body. I know. shocking right?
WHAT SYMPTOMS WOULD I FEEL IFI HAVE A PROLAPSE?
Most women report a heaviness or pressure
inside their pelvis. It can feel like something is going to fall out of you. It can happen gradually, or it can happen out of nowhere, like in the middle of a high-impact workout or while you are doing the dishes. Those are true stories from clients UROSPOT has helped.
THERE ARE 3 TYPES OF PROLAPSE:
1. Uterine Prolapse —The uterus actually descends into the vagina or the cervix ends up sitting lower in the vagina than normal.
2. Rectal Prolapse is called Rectocele — The rectum creates the bulge in the vagina but the vaginal wall still covers the organ.
3. Bladder Prolapse is called Cystocele — it means the bladder creates a bulge in the vagina with the vaginal wall covering the bladder as it bulges. Some women call this a "dropped bladder."
WILL PROLAPSE GET WORSE?
Here are 4 steps you can take to prevent prolapse or stabilize an existing prolapse so that it doesn‘t get worse:
1. Strengthening your pelvic floor is a must. At UROSPOT (a private urological focused clinic in your neighbourhood), we accom- plish this rapidly with the Kegel Throne. While you sit fully clothed, this dignified medical device \ha\ looks like a futuristic chair does 11,000 kegels for you in just 28 minutes. We combine this with education and health coaching to empower you to understand your body and prevent/manage prolapse. The best part is that you can use your physio benefits to cover a portion of the cost.
2. Stay regular! Constipation can cause pelvic
organ prolapse, and it's also a symptom that happens because of prolapse (avoid straining).
3. Take a load off! Lifting, pulling and straining can make things worse. When you work out, try low-impact versus high-impact exercises.
4. Stop smoking and watch your weight. Smoking can make prolapse symptoms worse, and it weakens the tissues around your pelvic muscles. Extra weight also puts more pressure on your pelvic floor.
The key is taking action. Women typically put everyone else‘s health before their own. It is important to maintain your independence and live with freedom and confidence. If you want to rapidly strengthen your pelvic floor while remaining fully clothed, come in for a com- plimentary consultation at UROSPOT. Our intradisciplinary team of pelvic health experts can't wait to meet you.
O© Best Version Media
BASHI HOMES
By Allison Dempsey | Photos by Donna Waxman
Bashi Homes: Transforming Spaces and Improving Lives
ffering full renovations, home expansions, additional dwelling units, basement renovations, second-storey additions, and exterior renovations, Bashi Homes Inc., led by owner Mehdi Motevalibashi, strives to provide quality products combined with exemplary customer service.
“I have been in renovations and new construction for 21 years,” says Mehdi. “My dad built three houses that we lived in when I was in elementary and high school. He had to be at work every day and couldn’t be on-site during the day. When I was in high school, he asked me to do all the site coordination. I was like a site superintendent. I loved it! That was my first exposure to construction and project management.”
When it comes to inspiration and what he enjoys most about his job, Mehdi shares some thoughts.
Bashi Homes has been serving its clients for the last four years in Ancaster, Hamilton, Toronto, and St. Catharines, while embracing a company philosophy aimed at providing quality client care.
“We understand that renovations cost a lot and that clients trust us with their hard-earned money, often their lifetime savings,” says Mehdi. “We do not take this lightly. Our philosophy is to understand our clients’ needs, be their trusted advisor, and guard their budget and timeline as if it’s our own family.”
“My inspiration in life and in my job is to improve people’s lives by transforming their living spaces,” he says. “What I enjoy most about my work is bringing clients’ dreams about their homes into reality, being on their side throughout the process, and seeing the joy and smile on their faces when they walk into their improved homes after the renovations are done.”
Renovations are a mix of hard work and satisfaction, Mehdi adds. From seeing the structure of the house installed to the insulation being put in, to the creation of a new kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom, it is very satisfying and rewarding.
“To see the clients imagining a new space and watching in joy as we bring it to reality is the best feeling in our work.”
The couple enjoys a variety of pastimes, including traveling to new places whenever possible.
“I also love woodworking,” says Mehdi. “It’s been my hobby since I was three or four.”
The couple’s four-year-old son, Caspian, attends Montessori school and loves hiking with Mehdi on the beautiful trails of Dundas Conservation Area.
After living in Montreal for a couple of years when they came to Canada, they moved to Toronto for Mehdi’s MBA studies at the Schulich School of Business, before eventually settling on Lloyminn Avenue, Oakhill in Ancaster, to be closer to Caspian’s school and the fantastic conservation areas and trails. They’ve also truly enjoyed their wonderful neighbors.
As a family, the Motevalibashis have participated in several activities at the Rotary Club of Ancaster AM, the most recent being the community clean-up. They also hope to do more traveling, with the North Pole definitely on the bucket list.
“It’s the experiences we have that enrich our lives and create lasting memories,” Mehdi says. “Material possessions don’t bring lasting happiness.”
Making choices to create a good life is also important to the family, he adds.
Aside from keeping busy at Bashi Homes, Mehdi greatly enjoys spending time with his family — wife Sahar and son Caspian.
The couple met in 2003 in a French language class in Tehran, Iran, where they were both born and grew up, and were married three years later, on May 6, 2006, in Tehran.
Mehdi, who has a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iran and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University, has worked in the construction industry for most of his life. Sahar is a software engineer from a university in Iran and has been working at Next Stop Canada, a division of YMCA Canada.
“We chose to settle down in Ancaster because of the proximity to nature and trails, the warm, welcoming people, and because it’s a relatively small community that takes ownership and responsibility in caring for its neighborhoods and people.”
And that choice certainly did not disappoint.
“Ancaster is the greatest community to live in and raise a family,” Mehdi says. “Take a short walk on any street and you’ll see pride of ownership in every corner. Our duty, obligation, and responsibility is to improve this fantastic neighborhood by transforming living spaces, one home at a time.”
© Best Version Media
© Best Version Media
