City Life Magazine — Aug/Sept 2015

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PERFECT PARADISE TRAVEL & STAYS IN PUGLIA

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SEX AND THE CITY’S CANDACE BUSHNELL ON HER NEW BOOK

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MATT ALBERTS AND HIS SOULEXPLORING LIFERS PROJECT

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BILL MARSHALL TALKS 40 YEARS OF TIFF

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THE CITY’S BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN IN UNIFORM

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FORD DOUBLES THE FUN WITH TWO SPEEDY NEW RIDES

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COSY HOTELINSPIRED HOME DECOR IDEAS

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INSIDE THE MINDS OF VAUGHAN’S TATTOO ARTISTS

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IT’S NOT JUST ANY CITY. AND THIS IS NOT JUST ANY WEBSITE. City Life Magazine has found a new digital home. Clean, beautiful and informative, MyCityLife.ca builds on the striking original photography, entertaining writing and modern design of the city’s leading lifestyle publication to create an online hub for all things Vaughan. This exciting new platform will connect citizens to events, businesses and more in and around the city. With our new integrated streaming feature you, the reader, will be able to utilize your social media to shape how Vaughan is seen and experienced. This isn’t just any city. It’s your city, at MyCityLife.ca.

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VOLUME 13 ISSUE 4 | AUG/SEPT 2015

66

CONTENTS

WOW, WOW, WOW #CityLifer Jaclyn Genovese gives Toronto a makeover

ON THE COVERS

48

UNDER THE GUN City Life investigates Vaughan’s recent string of gun violence

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44

FEATURE STORIES

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26 CITY’S BRAVEST

Meet the brave men and women in uniform keeping Vaughan safe

29 GREAT ESCAPES

Five days in the Italian paradise of Puglia

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38

38 LIFE’S A BEACH Breezy attire that’s prime for sunset walks along the shore 44 FORD’S BIG AND LITTLE BROTHER OF SPEED From a turbocharged compact to V8 muscle, Ford impresses with speed 55 SUITE TALK How Stéphanie Coutas brought Paris to New York

60 10

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Aug/Sept 2015

64 LIFER Matt Alberts and the pursuit of pure, unadulterated happiness More stories inside …

www.mycitylife.ca

IT’S OK TO DREAM. IF ANYONE UNDERSTANDS, WE DO.

We’re proud members of a family business who are very thankful to our parents for taking the chance to IXOƓOO WKHLU GUHDPV Founded 36 years ago by three brothers, the Policaro Automotive Family has grown into a community-based business in two of the region’s most dynamic markets and we proudly accept the opportunity to build on their success.

Employing four-hundred staff and hiring more in preparation for the arrival of BMW Brampton this fall, we’re as excited as ever for a very bright future.

From our family to yours, keep dreaming.

The Policaro Automotive Family

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www.policaro.ca

Aug/Sept 2015

City Life Magazine

11

PUBLISHER’S NOTE PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michelle Zerillo-Sosa • michelle@dolce.ca

“Where there is not community, trust, respect, ethical behaviour are difficult for the young to learn and for the old to maintain” — Robert

I

K. Greenleaf

have lived in Vaughan ever since I was a teenager — when there were no buses connecting communities like Woodbridge to Maple, when there were no streetlights north of Highway 7, when Jane Street was a single lane.

This was a time when there was only one baker, one supermarket and one doctor’s office in all of Maple. As foreign as all of this might sound to new residents of Vaughan, the upside was that you knew most of your neighbours on your street. Most importantly, you knew their names and their stories.

You might be surprised by our cover story (see page 48) since you have come to know us as the leading publication in Vaughan that delivers empowering stories of individuals that inspire you to live a life you can be proud of — a publication that reminds you of the beauty in people and places, of exciting developments that are the fabric of our wonderful city. However, with this issue, we could not ignore the recent tragedy of a mass shooting in Vaughan that took away two lives and caused fear and confusion for many. In the wake of the Moka café shooting, we, along with many of our readers and Vaughan residents, are questioning the safety of our city. And these questions have yet to be answered. I know you will all agree that progress is inevitable and although we may not know the names of all our neighbours, as residents, we share the same interests and desire to live in a safe and caring community.

We all hope for a community where we do not fear gun violence in the middle of the day and in a public place! This is not the city I want for my family and I am sure this is not what any of you want for your families. We value the freedom of leaving our houses in the morning, kissing our kids and spouses goodbye and never once having to worry about whether this is the last time we ever see them. We all strive for a community with people who look out for each other, a community where we thrive on each other’s successes and triumphs and mourn together when we hear of someone else’s misfortune or loss. How can you help to combat this, you ask? Simple: do not become disheartened or desensitized when you hear about violence in our city. Be vigilant and willing to help police and the authorities with any information that may be important and potentially lead to an arrest.

We cannot become fearful and disengaged if we want to safeguard our community. We hope you find this story and the rest of our content in this issue inspirational and empowering so that you may always strive to be that neighbour we all wished we lived next to.

Until next time, stay curious and involved in what matters to you the most!

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

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DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL Simona Panetta • simona@dolce.ca MANAGING EDITOR Michael Hill • michael@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca ART D E PARTM E NT CO-FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Fernando Zerillo • fernando@dolce.ca WEB PROJECT MANAGER Steve Bruno SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Christina Ban, Luay Saig WEB DESIGNER Yena Yoo WEB DEVELOPER INTERN Johnson Ta E D ITO R IAL D E PARTM E NT FASHION & HOME DECOR EDITOR Michelle Zerillo-Sosa BEAUTY & TRAVEL EDITOR Angela Palmieri-Zerillo COPY EDITOR Simona Panetta PROOFREADERS Nina Hoeschele, Simona Panetta CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Justin Mastine-Frost, Michael Hill, Alessandra Micieli, Amanda Storey EDITORIAL INTERNS Daniel Calabretta, Bianca Ricci CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Matt Alberts, Maria Eberfors, Jesse Milns, John Packman, Sal Pasqua VI D E O D E PARTM E NT VIDEOGRAPHER Sal Pasqua PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING T: 905-264-6789 info@citylifemagazine.ca DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Susan Bhatia SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Mario Balaceanu ACCOUNT MANAGER Julio Ventura SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Sarah Kanbar OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Alessandra Micieli FRONT COVERS Under the Gun / Illustration By Christina Ban Jaclyn Genovese / Photo By John Packman City Life Magazine • Volume 13 • Issue 4 • AUG/SEPT 2015 City Life Magazine is published bimonthly by Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont. L4H 3H9 T: 905-264-6789 • F: 905-264-3787 info@citylifemagazine.ca • www.dolcemedia.ca Subscribe online at www.citylifemagazine.ca or by calling 905-264-6789. City Life Magazine’s yearly subscription fee is $24.00.

We accept Visa, MC & AMEX. Send cheque or money order to Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd. #30, Vaughan, Ont. L4H 3H9.

Publication Mail Agreement No. 40026675 All rights reserved. Any reproduction is strictly prohibited without written consent from the publishers.

DISTRIBUTION AND CIRCULATION City Life Magazine reaches 342,342 readers per issue through household distribution, newsstand sales and event partnerships across Canada. City Life is also available to over 100 million digital consumers of Magzter Inc. and Issuu.

Inquiries about where City Life Magazine is available for sale should be directed to Dolce Media Group: info@dolce.ca or 905-264-6789.

ISSN 1206-1778 Next Issue: Oct/Nov 2015 The opinions expressed in City Life Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. Dolce Media Group does not assume liability for content.

The material in this magazine is intended for information purposes only and is in no way intended to supersede professional advice. We are proud to be a Canadian company that has successfully published magazines for the past 19 years without any government funding or financial assistance of programs to cover editorial costs. It has all been possible thanks to the wonderful support of our readers and advertisers. ©2015 Dolce Media Group • www.dolcemedia.ca • Printed in Canada

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FEEDBACK | A collection of comments made by our readers and advertisers on the latest issue of City Life Magazine “I have been a longtime reader of City Life Magazine and have always appreciated the interesting and informative articles each issue contains. Having been a part of the past issue of City Life, I now have a deeper respect for the magazine and its team.”

Pam Leudke

“City Life Magazine is the Vogue Magazine of Vaughan. The quality and presentation of the magazine as well as the distinguished advertisers make it our number 1 source for promoting our clinic.”

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“Working with City Life was an absolute pleasure! The City Life team welcomed me with open arms. I’m so happy to be a part of the City Life family and will continue reading it for years to come.”

28

“WHO I AM, WHAT I FEEL” — JULIAN FANTINO ON HIS REBOUND

38

VAUGHAN TEACHERS ARE ON A MISSION TO GIVE BACK

52

THE PAN AM GAMES TAKE OVER THE CITY — ARE YOU READY?

56

RISE & SHINE, TORONTO! THE LATEST CONDOS HAVE EDGE

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WE SADDLE UP FOR AN EQUINE ADVENTURE IN CALEDON

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LITTLE LUCA’S LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY INSPIRES

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Always full of great content!” @itsacakethingcanada VIA INSTAGRAM

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THE OPEN HE ART OF CANADIA N ACTRESS

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A BLAST FROM THE PAST WITH ’80S-INSPIRED FASHION

“The innovative ideas that City Life has developed have helped me successfully grow my business within the City of Vaughan. With the help of City Life advertising, I am proud to say that I am currently leading Ontario stores in sales.”

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Your feedback is important to us. We welcome you to share your thoughts and opinions to be included in our open forum.

Reach us with your comments via Twitter, Facebook, email, Instagram or telephone and tell us what’s on your mind today! @citylifetoronto | www.facebook.com/citylifemagazinevaughan | info@citylifemagazine.ca | @citylifemag

editor’s note

— John Lennon

Michael Hill, Managing Editor

D

id I just quote John Lennon? How pretentious of me.

But hey, things sure look a whole lot different from 356 metres up — especially when the only things between you and the rest of the world are two industrial-strength cables and shaky legs.

They say perspective is everything, but things have a way of becoming much clearer, and cloudier, while you’re staring down at Canada’s largest city from the CN Tower’s EdgeWalk.

Who am I? What’s my purpose in life? Why didn’t I bring an extra pair of underwear before doing this crazy thing? These 14

City Life Magazine

Aug/Sept 2015

Michael Hill Managing Editor

Let us know what you think of this issue by sharing your thoughts on Twitter at @citylifetoronto www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO BY JESSE MILNS

“THE MORE I SEE, THE LESS I KNOW FOR SURE”

questions and more raced to mind while leaning out into the open air 116 storeys above Toronto.

I have to thank American automaker Ford for inviting City Life Magazine to experience this adrenaline-surging attraction as part of a media event around its redesigned midsize crossover SUV, the 2015 Ford Edge. The vehicle itself was a nice drive, and its driver-assist tech works nicely, even in realworld settings. I used the active park assist to reverse into a really tight spot with faded parking lines, no problem. Which was nice, because my insurance, equally as shaky as my legs on the EdgeWalk, couldn’t handle another mishap. So, thank you, Ford, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and for keeping my shoddy driving record from collapsing.

So while this issue of City Life may bring more questions — like the ones that swirl around the periodic gun violence here in Vaughan over the past two years (see page 48) — and we may know less with the more we see, know that we’re all along for this ride called life together. And hopefully that helps put things into perspective.

Until next time,

www.mycitylife.ca

Aug/Sept 2015

City Life Magazine

15

city guide FOR EVERYTHING VAUGHAN & BEYOND YOND

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1. 9ROUND 30 MIN KICKBOX FITNESS

2. CONFETTI EVENT DESIGN INC.

De-stress while you kick some butt. Featuring highintensity workouts developed by founder/CEO Shannon Hudson, this kickboxing fitness studio helps you have fun while you tone and shed unwanted pounds. With a focus on highintensity interval training to build strength, 9Round brings a zap of energy to the standard big-box gym routine. And with a 9Round studio recently opened in Bolton, a never boring, rigorous workout is now close to home. Receive 10% off your membership at the Bolton location when you present this listing. Valid until Sept. 30, 2015.

12612 Hwy 50, Unit 17, Bolton 905-857-7622 www.9round.com

Whether you’re preparing a wedding reception or a small get-together, Confetti Event Design specializes in customized events that reflect your personality. Need help coming up with a theme or require a full planning service?

Owner Krysta Jo Peticca — a graduate of the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada — has the tools to professionally plan and execute your special day down to the very last detail.

Present this listing for 10% off the Full Wedding Planning package or the Wedding Day Management package until Sept. 30, 2015.

16

City Life Magazine

Aug/Sept 2015

By Appointment Only 416-859-0684 www.confettieventdesign.com

3. ACCOUNTS IN LINE Need help with accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, government filings, record-keeping, consulting, banking or creating financial reports? Accounts In Line takes the guesswork out of all your accounting needs. Owner Viktoria Moshevich has years of experience in all aspects of accounting and works with individuals and businesses across the GTA. Receive $50 off your first month’s service(s) and a free consultation until Sept. 30, 2015, when you present this listing.

85 North Park Rd., Unit 1408, Thornhill, 647-999-3919 www.accountsinline.com

4. HAUTE COUTURE ACADEMY OF FASHION, FINE ARTS & DESIGN Have a passion for fashion, styling, sewing or art? Learn from the best at Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design. This award-winning institution is equipped with instructors that will provide personalized mentoring to help students reach their goals in design-focused programs. Learn from founder and owner Joanne Dice, an industry professional teaching since 1994.

Receive 20% off any program for the entire first term of enrolment when you present this listing.

8099 Weston Rd., Unit 10, Woodbridge, 905-264-9341 www.hcfashionarts.ca

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LIFE ISN’T BLACK AND WHITE. ENJOY EVERY

For over 25 years, we’ve provided the entire GTA with colour through wallpaper, fabrics, stains, lacquers, and so much more. Let our decorating consultants help brighten your life with the right colours for you.

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Aug/Sept 2015

City Life Magazine

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City guide FOR EVERYTHING VAUGHAN & BEYOND

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5. VAUGHAN FAMILY VISION CARE Dr. Vishakha Thakrar, Dr. Angela Peddle and the team at Vaughan Family Vision Care offer a comfortable environment with many services that include eye exams, specialty contact lens fittings and vision therapy. With an emphasis on complete family vision care, the comprehensive eye facility also provides pediatric eye care for children as young as six months old.

Buy one pair of glasses and get the second pair 50% off* (equal or lesser value) exclusively with this listing until Sept. 30, 2015.

Restrictions apply. See store for details.

9565 Weston Rd., Suite 100, Vaughan, 905-303-9775 www.vaughanvision.com

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Aug/Sept 2015

6. JAAN CHOXI Launched at the spring 2015 World MasterCard Fashion Week, this Toronto-based brand is the epitome of luxury and functionality. Garments are expertly hand-stitched and designed for the modern man who treasures the details of a made-to-measure ensemble.

Featuring functional cuffs and pockets with a loop for your glasses located under the lapel, Jaan Choxi’s customizable options and professional fittings are the key to impeccable style.

Arrange a private fitting and receive 10% off your order with the promo code VIP10 until Sept. 30, 2015. info@jaanchoxi.com 416-271-3738 www.jaanchoxi.com

7. VAUGHAN LANDSCAPING

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Isn’t it time Giuseppe Agrippa and the Vaughan Landscaping team create a dream-cometrue backyard oasis for you?

Whether you want a private English-style garden or a resort-style entertainer’s delight, the team at Vaughan Landscaping has the experience and expertise to bring your fantasy outdoor space to life.

Services include landscaping, irrigation, pools, masonry and outdoor lighting.

Call today for a free consultation and receive 10% off any complete project when you present this listing until Sept. 30, 2015.

Luxurious furniture at a fraction of the cost. Outfit your home with the finest in style, comfort and design with unique modern pieces made on-site. Alta Moda’s showroom will have everything you need for every room in your home.

Whether you need a special piece of décor to update your space or a completely new look, have Alta Moda create a custom piece just for you.

Receive 10% off all regularly priced items until Sept. 30, 2015, when you present this listing.

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680 Rivermede Rd., Concord 416-636-5495 www.altamodafurniture.com

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Surrounded by Nature Filled with Luxury at Pine Valley and Major Mackenzie

A Lifestyle Worth Living Capo di Monte will elevate, liberate, and celebrate your lifestyle.

With an abundance of social and recreation amenities, Capo di Monte will allow you to spend more time entertaining family and friends instead of spending time maintaining a large home. Capo di Monte will free up your lifestyle for traveling, offering a real sense of security. Introducing the ultimate in luxury, Capo di Monte will offer carefree living at its finest.

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WOODBRIDGE

Visit our Presentation Centre at 9970 Weston Road (Major Mackenzie & Weston) All renderings are Artist’s concept. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

Aug/Sept 2015

City Life Magazine

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Inspiration

REDEFINING “DIFFERENT”

Quebec teen Jeffrey Beausoleil has lived with a prosthetic leg his entire life. This year he impresses the world as he takes on his biggest challenge yet Written By Amanda Storey

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City Life Magazine

Aug/Sept 2015

Jeffrey Beausoleil takes part in the Spartan Race at Le Massif de Charlevoix ski resort in Quebec City

Race together. As fate would have it, earlier this year Shriners approached Beausoleil and asked if he would be interested in becoming their patient ambassador for the races and help them raise money.

“Shriners helped me find my way of doing things — it is because of them that I can prove to everybody that I’m not different, I’m only differently abled,” says Beausoleil. “So I jumped at the opportunity.”

The two friends braced themselves for their first race on May 23, 2015, and not only did they complete the course (a feat in itself ), but they raised $100 in the process. Sirois has since raced alongside Beausoleil each time.

Fundraising isn’t the only good thing that’s come from Beausoleil’s successes on the obstacle course. On top of supporting the hospital to help other kids with conditions like his, Beausoleil’s lifting the stigma that surrounds those living with physical disabilities. Some people are quick to judge someone with a prosthetic leg, assuming it’s too difficult or impossible for them to reach the same physical goals. But Beausoleil’s story follows the same course as any hero’s: he felt

inspired to send a message and help a good cause. So he set his mind on a goal — to succeed at as many Spartan Races it would take to raise thousands for a good cause — and worked hard until his dream became a real possibility.

“Fear is psychological: if you believe you can do it, you will do it,” says Beausoleil, who prepares for each race by running and working out three or four times a week. “It’s all about the mindset you put yourself in.

If you do a Spartan Race, you will find out who you really are at the finish line.”

Next on Beausoleil’s agenda is the 5K Foam Fest in September, followed by the Total Zombie race in October.

Having raised over $500 for Shriners so far, he’s aiming to raise the $10,000 within the next year, and he’s on his way to achieving that goal for the place he considers his second home.

It’s too perfect an analogy: Beausoleil is a living example that no matter what obstacle course a person finds themselves in, they can in fact make it through — and even enjoy the bumpy way out. shfcmh.convio.net/goto/ spartanjeffrey www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO BY EPIC ACTION IMAGERY

A

16-year-old just taught me a lesson I will never forget: outrunning your fears is a lot more possible — and fun — than you might think.

Hailing from Saint-Jean-surRichelieu, Que., Jeffrey Beausoleil loves a good challenge. He’s completed five Spartan Races since May of this year, and he’s planning to tackle even more of the infamous obstacle courses as 2015 progresses — and he’s doing all this on his prosthetic leg.

When Beausoleil dives into the details of his condition and Spartan track record, I am instantly inspired.

He was born with a congenital malformation of his right hand and right foot, preventing the two limbs from forming properly. Since he was five months old, he’s been cared for at Shriners Hospitals for Children in Montreal, where he had his first surgery at just over a year old and continues to undergo treatments (the growth spurts call for newly moulded prosthetics on the regular). Shriners is a place that’s close to Beausoleil’s heart, and the reason why he decided to pursue these races in the first place. And he doesn’t plan on stopping until he’s raised $10,000 for the hospital that helped give him back his childhood.

A few years ago, Beausoleil and his friend Michel Sirois vowed they would one day participate in a Spartan

DISCOVER YOUR MAXIMUM POTENTIAL THROUGH THE STUDY OF MARTIAL ARTS.

43 YEARS

201 14 READERS’ CHO OIC CE AWARD WIN NNER, 7 YEA ARS IN A ROW

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Aug/Sept 2015

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PHOTOINREWIND 07-08-2015

PHOTO BY SAL PASQUA

Toronto FC striker and City Life cover man Sebastian Giovinco signs a jersey for a fan at the TFC II home opener at the Ontario Soccer Centre. The Atomic Ant was greeted by hundreds of supporters at the autograph session before the Toronto FC’s USL-Pro affiliate took the pitch against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Catch our story on the Italian soccer star in our June/ July issue or at MyCityLife.ca.

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A DV E R TO R I A L

Owner of North Park Cleaners Rick Lamanna

A CUSTOMER-FIRST PHILOSOPHY North Park Cleaners owner Rick Lamanna on building a successful dry-cleaning enterprise

W

hen Ernesto Lamanna got into the dry-cleaning business in 1954, he exhibited precision and a scrupulous attention to detail like few others in the industry. “He was always in the trenches, making sure that each garment had his personal attention. He wasn’t going to neglect anything that came into his shop,” says his son, Rick Lamanna, owner of North Park Cleaners.

Similar to the clothing he would handle, Ernesto applied his detail-oriented approach to his customers. “He always preached to me the importance of quality care in respect to each and every garment — to treat every garment and look after your clientele as best as possible.”

Rick, 46, adopted his father’s philosophy to develop a paragon business model that has North Park Cleaners celebrating a quarter century in the industry this year.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s been 25 years that I’ve been doing this,” says Rick. “I enjoy dealing with the people within the area and friends associated with the business.”

Rick’s affable and courteous nature toward his customers has enabled North Park Cleaners to grow. He currently has more than 30 employees and two locations that exceed 10,000 square feet. www.mycitylife.ca

Placing a premium on customer service and satisfaction is what Rick deems the most valuable business lesson he learned from his father. “Never neglect the customer,” Rick says, “the customer is first.

Whatever the customer wants is what you need to do.”

However, Rick, a modest individual, will not take sole credit for his company’s success. “It starts with our front counter.

The customers always tell me that our front-end employees always make them feel welcomed and that their service and commitment to them is off the charts.”

Since the company’s inception in 1990, Rick has strived to have his staff and company uphold a certain standard of commitment, respect and quality service.

“I like to look at what I do as representing me. Everything that comes out of my location — it reflects North Park Cleaners.”

www.northparkcleaners.com 630 Aberdeen Ave. Woodbridge, Ont. 905-851-9953 4101 Rutherford Rd., Unit 6 Woodbridge, Ont. 905-851-1818 Aug/Sept 2015

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23

YOU YOU O U KNOW K N O W US U S FOR F O R LUNCH LUNCH …

PAN AM TORCH RELAY IGNITES VAUGHAN City Life follows the Pan Am Games Torch Relay throughout Vaughan as it visits Kleinburg Public School and city hall Written By Daniel Calabretta

GET TO KNOW US FOR DINNER! Trimani is now open for dinner Fridays & Saturdays

Come home to Trimani Ristorante.

Treat your palate to world-class chef Domenic Colacci’s fresh, simple, European style with every dish executed to perfection. Celebrating 15 years in Vaughan, owner Robert De Zorzi ensures the satisfaction of every guest. Enjoy live music by singer/pianist Mellow Dee as you indulge in a glass of wine from our extensive collection.

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8555 Jane Street, Unit 6, Concord, ON L4K 5N9 905.660.7474 City Life Magazine Aug/Sept 2015 | www.trimani.ca

On

June 24, the Pan Am Games torch passed through Vaughan, the 25th stop on the 41-day torch relay.

Woodbridge, Kleinburg, Maple and Thornhill were a lucky four of more than 130 communities on the tour to see the flame before it made its way to the Rogers Centre for the opening ceremonies on July 10.

Hundreds of students of Kleinburg Public School gathered on the school’s front lawn, fervently waving their handcrafted flags of the 41 countries that would be participating in the games as the torch arrived. When torchbearer Caroline Grech passed the flame to Kiara Leber, a Grade 8 student at Kleinburg Public School, the crowd erupted in jubilation.

“We have a very highly supportive community and parents as well as great kids and staff, and you can tell by the energy out there,” says the principal of Kleinburg Public School, Greg Morandi.

In the afternoon, the torch made its way to city hall, where guests enjoyed musical performances by Samba Squad, Jordan Mowat and Manitou Mkwa Singers. Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, MPP Steven Del Duca and MP Julian Fantino were also in attendance. After hockey broadcaster Andi Petrillo lit the cauldron at city hall, she offered advice to the youth in the crowd. “Always chase your passion. Never let it burn out.” www.mycitylife.ca

www.mycitylife.ca

Aug/Sept 2015

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Faces of Vaughan

CAPT. JACQUELINE RASENBERG, VAUGHAN FIRE AND RESCUE

ANDRE CLAFTON, FIRE PREVENTION INSPECTOR, VAUGHAN FIRE AND RESCUE

HELEN GALANIS, PLATOON LEADER AT YORK REGION EMS

CONST. ROB RUFFA, YORK REGIONAL POLICE

CITY’S

JORDAN KACHUR, CAPTAIN/LEAD PARAMEDIC AT YORK REGION EMS

BRAVEST

PHOTOS BY SAL PASQUA

City Life Magazine sits down with some of Vaughan’s most notable men and women in uniform who put safety and community above all else Written By Daniel Calabretta 26

City Life Magazine

Aug/Sept 2015

www.mycitylife.ca

JACQUELINE RASENBERG

I

t wasn’t until firefighter Tracy Bradt participated in a FireFit event in 1996 that Jacqueline Rasenberg believed a career in firefighting was possible. “I had never actually seen a female doing it, especially at that time.

When I saw her I thought, ‘okay, you know what? I can do this.’”

Rasenberg, 48, was recently promoted to captain at Vaughan Fire and Rescue. She is in charge of Station 73 at 325 Woodbridge Ave., where she has nine firefighters working out of that hall.

Like Bradt, Rasenberg has participated in events that test all firefighters’ skills, winning the Firefighter Combat Challenge nine times on the world stage and eight times at the national level, where she holds the record for fastest Canadian female over 40.

“I always saw people avoid situations or walk away from them.

I was never that person.

I always went toward it” — Const. Rob Ruffa

ANDRE CLAFTON

W

hen Vaughan fire prevention inspector Andre Clafton was a child growing up in Yorkshire, England, food was scarce at times in the family household. It was then that his mother would tell him, “Don’t think that there isn’t any person doing worse than us.” From a young age, Clafton learned the principle of being kind and empathetic toward others.

The idea of helping people, in any form, is one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a fire prevention inspector, says Clafton. “We’ll come to your house and check your smoke alarms. If you don’t have one or if it’s not working we’ll put in a smoke alarm free of charge because we’ll never leave you unprotected.”

Clafton, who is currently in his 13th year of service with Vaughan Fire and Rescue, was awarded by the City of Vaughan with the Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 for his work with senior safety in the community.

Clafton’s duty to help also extends to his volunteer work at the Vaughan Food Bank for the past 13 years — a decision undoubtedly influenced by his childhood. www.mycitylife.ca

C

ROB RUFFA

onst. Rob Ruffa is having his picture taken at the York Regional Police station in Maple when a fellow officer walks by and jokingly says, “He’s already a celebrity here. What more does he want?”

Ruffa has expressed a desire to help people since he was a teen. He recalls taking the TTC home from school one day and witnessing a 77-year-old man collapse. He immediately performed CPR on him and saved his life. “I always saw people avoid situations or walk away from them,” says Ruffa.

“I was never that person. I always went toward it.”

Ruffa, 36, has been on the force since 2006. He is now a school resource officer for various high schools within Vaughan where he conducts comprehensive presentations about drugs, anti-bullying, “sexting” and social media. “I’m trying to give students life skills so it’s more of a proactive approach, not reactive,” says Ruffa.

“It’s amazing.”

F

HELEN GALANIS

or York Region EMS platoon leader Helen Galanis, becoming a paramedic was a wise decision.“The dynamic of it, the compassion and making a difference — it really was just a perfect fit for my personality.”

Since joining the paramedic service in 1998, Galanis says the most rewarding aspect of her job is making a difference in someone’s life. That can be fulfilled even through the smallest of acts, such as “holding that little old lady’s hand on the way to the hospital when you’re doing a transfer.”

Galanis became a platoon leader at York Region EMS in 2014 after working as a road paramedic for 17 years.

In 2007, Galanis and her partner, Paula Woolsey, started The Nanny Blanket Drive, a charitable initiative that donates and distributes blankets at various hospitals within York Region during the Christmas holidays. Since its inception, the drive has received more than one thousand blankets from donations.

T

JORDAN KACHUR

he unforeseeable nature of the job is what York Region EMS paramedic Jordan Kachur, 30, finds most exhilarating.

“You could be doing a basic lift assist and then delivering a baby or going to a serious car accident — it’s just totally unpredictable. But it’s exciting and every day it’s just totally new.”

Kachur, an eleven-year veteran and current captain with York EMS, says turning a patient’s negative experience into a positive one is the most gratifying part of his career.

“It might just be another shift to us, but that day, that call, could be the worst day of someone else’s life, and to be able to make an impact is something I don’t think a lot of people could say that’s what their job entails.”

In 2014, Kachur received the Compassionate Care Award for setting extraordinary examples of kindness and understanding in his daily duties.

Aug/Sept 2015

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27

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PUGLIA

A scenic vista in Santa Maria di Leuca captures the beauty of Puglia

see page 38

City Life Magazine photographer Jesse Milns embarks on a ďŹ veday adventure with The Thinking Traveller for a picture-perfect getaway along the heel of Italy’s boot Photography and Text By Jesse Milns www.mycitylife.ca

Escapes

reat

Aug/Sept 2015MilnsCity Life Magazine Photography and Text By Jesse

29

great escapes

P

uglia has a diverse landscape and an abundance of architecture that’s soaked in thousands of years of heritage.

Located where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian, olive trees sprout from the rich red soil up to the conical stone roofs of the trulli. The southern region is still low-key in terms of tourism, which makes it ideal for those wanting to experience a quieter vacation away from the typical Italian hot spots that include Rome, Venice and Milan. My Think Puglia adventure was jam-packed with picturesque vistas, amazing food and luxury accommodations that made for an unforgettable experience. Here’s my daily rundown of things to do and see in this untapped destination:

From top to bottom: a tasty pasta and seafood dish highlights the region’s culinary strengths; lunch at Villa San Vincenzo includes fresh ricotta drizzled in honey

PU

GL

IA

DAY 1 Masseria Cisterna Rossa Located in Ruffano, Masseria Cisterna Rossa is one of The Thinking Traveller’s “Think Exquisite” villas. This gorgeous stay sleeps eight in four bedrooms, has a turquoise outdoor pool, multiple common areas and daily maid service.

The perfect little oasis is an easy drive to small towns like Gallipoli and Otranto, and minutes away from sandy beaches.

This villa was my personal favourite because it was casually elegant — the pool area and surrounding olive grove seemed to glow at dusk, and the rooftop terrace was perfect for watching the sunset while sipping some locally produced wine.

city.” Its town centre is formed on a tiny island surrounded by defensive walls and accessed by a bridge. Inside those walls is a series of restaurants, churches and buildings with a fish market next to a bustling harbour.

DAY 2 Villa San Vincenzo and Gallipoli Also a Thinking Traveller “Think Exquisite” villa, the secluded estate of Villa San Vincenzo accommodates 10 guests in five luxury-appointed bedrooms and has a 24-7 concierge on-site. The enormous garden is full of apricot and olive trees that wrap around the multiple houses on the property, which feature traditional Salento architecture and a stunning pool. Nearby is the Ionian coast town of Gallipoli, which means “beautiful

DAY 3 Masseria Curti Vecchi and Otranto From the outside, Masseria Curti Vecci looks like an old fortress. Inside is a huge courtyard with the villa itself wrapping around it. The stone walls keep a very rustic feel but are accented beautifully by the mix of modern and antique furniture. The kitchen is a dream for anyone that loves cooking.

Otranto is situated on Italy’s most eastern tip and is known for the “martyrs of Otranto.” The bones of the martyrs — 800 people killed by

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www.mycitylife.ca

The sun rises over Masseria Cisterna Rossa, a perfect oasis close to small towns like Gallipoli and Otranto

From left to right: Trulli — distinct and ancient round stone huts with conical roofs — abound at Trullo Terra Dolce, as well as at Casa

Romigi in Valle d’Itria; ancient architecture and spectacular cathedrals are abundant at Otranto, located in Italy’s most eastern tip; the sea crashes up against the rocks for an atmosphere like no other at Marina di Novaglie’s Ristorante Lo Scalo

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great escapes Islamic Turks over religion — are still displayed in the walls of the town’s cathedral. The cobblestone streets wind past ristoranti and heritage sites to seamlessly blend the ancient architecture and new businesses that inhabit it.

DAY 4 Santa Maria di Leuca On the southernmost tip of Puglia is Santa Maria di Leuca, which is where you will find Villa Blanca. Inside are five bedrooms that sleep 10, as well as numerous living areas that make you feel at home as soon as you set one foot inside. The pool with a Jacuzzi corner and view of the town is breathtaking.

Some of the best seafood you can have in Italy, let alone the region, is at Ristorante Lo Scalo in Marina di Novaglie. Its view of the crystal-clear water crashing up against the rocks creates an atmosphere like no other.

Fresh lobster, octopus and white anchovies are served alongside pasta, house-made bread and local seasonal vegetables.

DAY 5 Casa Romigi and Trullo Terra Dolce West of Brindisi is Valle d’Itria, the native land of trulli (ancient round

stone huts with conical roofs). These unique structures are specific to the region and can be found converted to restaurants, stores or homes.

Casa Romigi is a renovated series of trulli with four bedrooms and a beautiful pool. With huge windows on one side and sliding doors on the other, the kitchen is bright and spacious and has a beautiful dining table. This is perfect for enjoying an espresso and friselle for breakfast while watching the sunrise.

Trullo Terra Dolce is another lovely home restored from a series of trulli.

It keeps the rustic feel in every room with lots of reclaimed wood furnishings and East Indian-style accents. The kitchen and wood-fired pizza oven just outside are perfect for creating authentic Italian meals.

Photographer Jesse Milns’s “Think Puglia” trip was organized by The Thinking Traveller, a villa rental company that assists and supports travellers looking for stays in luxury villas and seafront properties throughout Puglia and across the Mediterranean. For more info, visit www.thethinkingtraveller.com

From top to bottom: Byzantine, early Christian and Romanesque elements fill the Cattedrale di Otranto; the town of Scorrano’s Palazzo Ducale Guarini is a historic palace with six bedrooms that walk out to an enormous courtyard; the island town of Gallipoli attracts history buffs and sea lovers alike with its storied past and pristine coastline

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A DV E R TO R I A L

Cerilli HAIR SALON

The specialists at Cerilli Hair Salon bring the client experience to a whole new level Loredana Cerilli, owner of Cerilli Hair Salon, and the salon’s co-founders, her mother Maria and father Tony

C

erilli Hair Salon owner Loredana Cerilli knows the importance of a thorough client consultation. She listens closely to her customers’ desires and always asks how they liked their latest style and colour.

“It’s about building rapport and ensuring that clients are 100 per cent satisfied,” says Loredana, a second-generation hairstylist with over 25 years of experience. “You’re not going to get that unless you ask the right questions.”

For more than 50 years, Cerilli Hair Salon has combined this customer-first attitude with expert knowledge to fulfil the hairstyling needs of clientele across

Canada. It’s made Cerilli, which was founded by Loredana’s parents, Maria and Tony, the go-to salon for customers looking for unrivalled service from caring professionals who can tackle any request.

“As specialists in our field, there isn’t a cut, colour job or repair we can’t do,” explains Loredana, who also holds a degree in trichology, the study of hair and scalp disorders, and provides specialized scalp treatments as well as wig and hairpiece fittings.

A key to Cerilli’s success is continuous education. Loredana and her qualified team regularly travel the world to stay on top of emerging trends and techniques,

and Maria and Tony also use their decades of experience to mentor new stylists.

With this depth of knowledge, it’s no wonder that Cerilli won the Top Choice Awards for Top Hair Salon in 2012 and 2013, and the 2014 Readers’ Choice Award for Top Hair Salon and Loredana for Top Hair Stylist in Richmond Hill.

“We’re equipped with the knowledge and tools to complete any challenge,” says Loredana. “We take what we do very seriously, and that’s what sets us apart.” www.cerillisalon.com 10520 Yonge St., Richmond Hill, Ont. 905-508-9400

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A DV E R TO R I A L

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When signs of aging start to appear on your skin, a visit to Freedom Medi-Spa for a complimentary consultation is in order. Founded by Daniela Hofmann, the state-of-theart facility boasts medical-grade technologies and specializes in both the prevention and reversal of fine lines and wrinkles. Its spa menu includes a variety of services that include facials, microdermabrasion, peels, laser hair removal, spider veins, sun damage and skin resurfacing, as well as Botox and fillers delivered by a stellar team. “I finally took a friend’s advice and went to Freedom MediSpa,” says a client. “The difference in their knowledge and my results was incomparable to other places I’ve visited. You really do get what you pay for!”

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A DV E R TO R I A L

Dr. Andrew Scott, owner of Scott Family Chiropractic

SCOTT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC ROPRAC RACTIC CTIC How a Woodbridge family practice guides patients toward a healthy, all-natural life

D

r. Andrew Scott knows how powerful the human body is. Over his 20-year career, he has seen it heal itself in miraculous ways — when given the right opportunity.

“At Scott Family Chiropractic, we specialize in getting the body to do what it was supposed to do,” he explains. “We provide natural solutions to health issues, but also educate patients on what lifestyle will enhance health so they are empowered to be their own best doctor.”

Dr. Scott’s focus is to detect and correct tiny misalignments in the spine called vertebral subluxations. These subluxations, often caused by physical, chemical or emotional stress, can put pressure on the delicate nervous system and interfere with the transmission of vital communication from the brain to the body.

He explains, “When this happens, all manner of health challenges emerge. If left uncorrected, pain, tissue damage and organ breakdown result. With gentle release of such interference, the brain is able to heal the body through the nervous system.”

This approach may be atypical in the industry, but it’s allowed numerous families to regain health in ways they didn’t think were possible. As Dr. Scott notes, “We strive to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques of spinal correction, exercise, physiology and nutrition to remain clinically excellent.”

Passionate about helping children grow up healthy, Dr. Scott fosters a caring, family-oriented environment that caters to all ages. Most challenges that adults face actually begin in childhood.

By identifying problems at a young age, parents can steer children toward a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Scott asserts, “We’re about taking care of the spine early, so individuals can benefit from a healthy, active life — no matter their age.” Scott Family Chiropractic provides dedicated service for kids and adults, ages zero to 99.

8 Lansdowne Ave., Woodbridge (Enter at 5220 Highway 7, near Kipling Avenue) 905-264-KIDS (5437), www.scottfamilychiro.com 36

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Aug/Sept 2015

www.mycitylife.ca

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DIP INTO THESE VERSATILE VACATION ESSENTIALS THAT WILL MAKE PACKING FOR YOUR NEXT GETAWAY A CINCH

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA EBERFORS / PHOTO ASSISTANT: TANJA LUNDIN STYLIST: ISABELLE OLANDER / HAIR/MAKEUP: ISABELLE OLANDER MODEL: JOSEFINE KARLSSON/STOCKHOLM MODEL GROUP / LOCATION: SONG SAA PRIVATE ISLAND, CAMBODIA WWW.SONGSAA.COM TEXT BY SIMONA PANETTA

LIFE’S A BEACH

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Easy, breezy, blue. The midnight blue hue of this collared dress with Swarovski details adds instant sophistication to any beachside affair www.tommy.com

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The ruched panelling and cascading details of this elegant evening gown are softened by its light blue hue — a dreamy look for a candlelit dinner next to the splashing waves of the ocean www.adriannapapell.com

BOARDWALK GLAMOUR NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD

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LOVELY LINGERIE B R A F I T T I N G , S W I M W E A R & M A S T E C TO M Y S P E C I A L I S T

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beauty

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bold or neutral look, Too Faced has you covered | www.toofaced.com

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As summer comes to a close, it’s time to shake up your beauty routine. Local makeup artist and beauty expert Rita Stirpe shares her fave products that will perfect your look without weighing you down

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Fight summer-sun breakage and split ends with Alterna Haircare’s Caviar CC Cream for Hair. Simply apply the leave-in treatment to your clean and towel-dried tresses and watch as the formula’s nourishing benefits bring manageability and shine to your beach waves | www.alternahaircare.com

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The groundbreaking formula of BareMinerals’ Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream flips traditional foundation on its head. The perfectly blendable product looks naturally radiant on the complexion while protecting your skin with SPF 30 | www.bareescentuals.com

ABOUT RITA STIRPE From educating aspiring makeup artists to hosting her own show, Cosmetic Art, on Rogers TV, Vaughan-based makeup artist Rita Stirpe has been making the world a more beautiful place since the year 2000. In 2014, she was one of five top finalists for Makeup Artist of the Year at the Contessa Awards, and this year she made it to the finalist round for Makeup Artist of the Year at the prestigious Canadian Mirror Awards. Along with rouging the faces of celebrities and well-known personalities, Rita is also a top choice for local brides-to-be searching for expert makeup application on their big day. @MakeupArtByRita www.makeupbyritastirpe.com

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auto review

FORD’S BIG AND LITTLE BROTHER OF SPEED

The recently redesigned Mustang GT and the feisty Fiesta ST prove the Ford family is serious about performance Written By Justin Mastine-Frost

The 2015 Ford Mustang GT

F

ord’s performance division has been taking great strides over the last few years to improve its position against the competition. Between the huge improvements of its compact hatches with the Focus and Fiesta ST, and the recent redesign of the iconic Ford Mustang, the brand is in a better position than ever to take over a significant chunk of market share. I’m the first to admit I’ve never been a huge domestic car fan, but after spending a reasonable amount of seat time with both the Mustang and the Fiesta ST, I’m convinced that Ford has the chops to keep up with the pack.

2015 Ford Mustang GT The Mustang GT has been one of the best budget performance coupes on the market for quite some time, however, with recent changes to its chassis, the Mustang is now more potent a performer than ever. With

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Aug/Sept 2015

a price of entry starting at just over $33,000, and available limited-slip differential, Recaro seats and 6-piston brakes, the new Mustang ticks all the performance boxes. The new Mustang’s sport-styling cues are reminiscent of the classic Mustang from 1965 to 1969, but don’t let its looks fool you.

This 435-horsepower pony car isn’t just a straight-line quarter-mile racer, either. Ford spent a great deal of time working on the new Mustang chassis, most notably (and finally) updating the rear suspension to a fully independent setup. The previous generation wasn’t half bad when tossed around the bends but these latest changes, coupled with tight and responsive steering, make the new Mustang an absolute riot to drive enthusiastically. Whether you’re in the mood for carving down your favourite winding road or just going out and being a tire-smoking hooligan, the new Mustang will happily oblige.

Though the Mustang is a high-power

machine, it’s still quite well equipped to handle the daily commute. The welltuned 5-Litre V-8 engine will manage a respectable rating of 9.3-L/100 km on the highway and 15.2-L/100 km in the city. It can also be loaded up with plenty of creature comforts, including the latest version of Ford’s Sync touchscreen infotainment, push-button start, keyless entry and adaptive cruise control, to name a few. www.mycitylife.ca

2015 Ford Fiesta ST If big, bad muscle cars aren’t exactly your cup of tea, Ford has a few more tricks up its sleeve. It’s been quite some time since Ford in North America has dabbled in the hot-hatch game, yet both the Focus and smaller Fiesta ST have been winning over more compact performance enthusiasts since hitting the market just a couple of short years ago. The wee Fiesta may only put out a modest 197-hp and 202 lb-ft of torque, but with a curb weight of a little over 2,700 pounds, the ST is plenty quick off the line. Unlike much of its competition, the Fiesta ST comes with all the performance goodies straight out of the gate, including an awesome set of seats, a short-shifting 6-speed manual

The 2015 Ford Fiesta ST

gearbox, and an excellent and balanced sport suspension setup.

When it comes to hot hatches, looking fast is always part of the equation. Rather than going the ultraunderstated route we’ve seen from the Volkswagen GTI as of late, the Fiesta ST looks plenty loud and fast. Its bold front fascia, pronounced rear wing

and slick 17-inch alloy wheels leave no question that the Fiesta ST means business. On the inside, this go-fast esthetic continues with its slick and heavily bolstered two-tone Recaro seats. If your goal is to go fast and look great doing it, the Fiesta ST is worth the look. www.ford.ca

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Aug/Sept 2015

City Life Magazine

45

A DV E R TO R I A L

Top left: Industry professionals with decades of real-world experience teach students at Haute Couture Right: Students hone their skills in a variety of design-focused programs, including dressmaking, leatherworking and fine arts Bottom left: Joanne Dice, left, and a group of her talented students

DESIGN: PURE AND SIMPLE

W

hen Joanne Dice, founder and owner of Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design, meets a prospective student, she asks a simple but very important question: What are your goals?

“I ask because I customize every student’s individual program,” Dice explains, “and I’m constantly meeting with them over the year to make sure they’re on track and developing the skill set they need to excel in their chosen field of design.”

A fashion designer with more than 30 years of experience, Dice has used her expertise to mentor aspiring designers from her exclusive Vaughan academy since 1998. The advanced, university-level programs she provides give unparalleled preparation, allowing students to shine in even the most competitive university and college courses. It’s this superior training that’s established Haute Couture as the area’s premier design academy.

“We specialize in one thing: Design.

And we do it better than everybody,” says 46

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Aug/Sept 2015

How the individually tailored curriculum at Haute Couture, Vaughan’s leading design academy, gives students the advantages they need to excel

Dice. “We’re teaching the same programs that they’re teaching in university, so when our students get to that next level they are head and shoulders above the pack.”

Haute Couture’s students hone their skills in a range of design-focused programs, such as sewing, couture dressmaking, leatherworking, fine arts, fashion illustration and related arts, graphic and interior design and more.

Instructors are seasoned industry veterans who all work professionally in design.

And the results are beyond impressive: 100 per cent of Haute Couture graduates who follow Joanne’s custom tailored curriculum are accepted into university and college courses annually.

While portfolio preparation is key, Dice strives to do more than just get her students into the door. She uses her vast industry network to go above and beyond, arranging for students’ work to be featured in art galleries, connecting them with internships with designers in the Greater Toronto Area, using her vast array of industry contacts to help them find

employment and helping with tuition costs through a recently established $1,500 scholarship program.

“We also just secured 10 spots for my students to work backstage with designers at next year’s Rome Fashion Week,” says Dice. “These are the opportunities that will set my students up for success.”

Every July, Haute Couture also hosts an end-of-year fashion and art show gala that attracts well over 500 people. The evening allows students to showcase their beautiful work, and the audience — especially the parents — are always blown away. “They feel like they’re at a real, professional show,” says Dice. “They can’t believe the amazing work these children create,” especially considering how Haute Couture’s programs are so affordable.

“We’re all about design, pure and simple,” Dice concludes. “The kids love it, and when they leave, they’re confident and more than ready for the road ahead.”

8099 Weston Rd., Unit 10, Woodbridge, Ont. 905-264-9341 www.hcfashionarts.ca www.mycitylife.ca

Student: Paige Age: 11 Grade: 5 Favourite subject: Math Hobbies: Soccer and basketball What I want to be when I grow up: Professional soccer player

Student: Alivia Age: 12 Grade: 6 Favourite subject: Languages Hobbies: Dancing and singing What I want to be when I grow up: A job in the health & sciences field

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MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF KLEINBURG (MSK) is an accredited Montessori and ministry-licensed school educating children from 15 months to 12 years of age. Overlooking 13 acres of breathtaking greenery and the Humber River, MSK provides students with an academically rich, scenic and safe environment. MSK’s students are recognized for being respectful, responsible and resourceful citizens of the community. We look forward to welcoming your family into ours.

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-ON &RI AM PM 3AT 3UN AM PM

Aug/Sept 2015

City Life Magazine

47

UNDER

T

he black hatchback came to a stop out front of Moka Espresso Bar & Gelato at an angle that ignored the white parking lines, positioned for a swift exit. It was a clear June morning and the sun had just climbed above the towering trees that overhung the lofty concrete retaining wall across the street from the modest strip mall on Islington Avenue south of Highway 7, casting a long shadow from the feet of the hooded figure that emerged from the vehicle.

The man stood about six feet in height with a burly frame, his face hidden by a light-grey hood and a black mask pulled up and over his mouth. When he entered the café, he did so with coldblooded intent.

At 8:18 a.m., a time when most are heading to work, taking kids to camp or grabbing a quick breakfast, York Regional Police responded to a 911 call from inside Moka. The perpetrator

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had pulled out a gun and opened fire on the early-morning patrons and staff.

When officers arrived, “they found quite a scene,” Const. Andy Pattenden later explained to the scrum of media gathered behind the fluttering blackand-yellow police tape lining the strip mall’s parking lot. Long gone was the vehicle, a 2011 Nissan Versa, which police later learned was stolen from the Greater Napanee area, and four people had been shot, two of them fatally. Former Toronto mayoral candidate Rocco Di Paola was one of the injured victims. Among the deceased were Moka employee Maria Voci, 47, a mother of three, and café regular Christopher de Simone, 24, both Vaughan citizens.

The following day, on June 25, a backlog of traffic built up north and south along Islington as police stopped cars travelling by the strip mall.

They asked if the commuters knew anything about what had transpired the day before, if they recognized the

suspect or the vehicle in the photo they handed through driver-side windows.

Afterward Const. Pattenden would tell reporters that, after reviewing security camera footage, investigators “could definitely tell that the suspect entered the café with a purpose.”

The tragic shooting at Moka has once again sent ripples through a community that’s becoming all too familiar with open displays of premeditated violence. The Moka incident marks the fourth shooting in the area in 15 months, and comes in the wake of the bloodiest period that Vaughan has seen in a dec ade,

www.mycitylife.ca

York Region has been considered one of the safest communities in Canada for years, and Vaughan one of its safest cities. And yet, periodic bursts of targeted gun violence, often linked to criminal activity, have tainted the pristine image of a city on the rise.

In the wake of the Moka café shooting, the most recent daytime attack that’s left two Vaughan citizens dead, City Life Magazine asks: Why is this happening? And what’s being done to combat it?

THE GUN WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTINA BAN

where a string of targeted shootings left six dead.

It started with the shooting of suspected mafia hitman Salvatore Calautti, 41, and his associate James Tusek, 35, when the pair left

www.mycitylife.ca

a bachelor party at Terrace Banquet Centre in the early morning of July 12, 2013. Nine months later, on April 24, 2014, GTA mobster Carmine Verduci, 56, was shot dead in broad daylight outside the Regina Sports Café in the Highway 7 and Martin Grove Road area in Woodbridge. Two weeks after, on May 4, Ritesh Thakur was gunned down in front of shoppers outside the HomeSense at the RioCan Colossus Centre near highways 400 and 407; the 41-year-old Indian man had been previously charged in a $6.5-million drug bust. The following month, on June 6, a double shooting at Baggio’s Café on Woodstream Boulevard left Sarhad Sadiq, a 36-year-old Assyrian man who was also involved in a multimillion-dollar drug bust in 2006, dead and one other injured; Sadiq’s murder marked the fifth in Vaughan in less than a year. And near the end of September, on Wednesday the 24,

Ajax man Gul Mohammed Alakoozi, 32, was killed and another man injured in a second double shooting on Via Borghese Street, a quiet residential area by Major Mackenzie Drive and Weston Road.

By summer 2014, the words “brazen” and “shooting” had become common among newspaper headlines in the city and around the GTA. Many if not all of these shootings showed signs of connection to organized crime and, while terrifying when considering the bold and highly public nature of the attacks, were also targeted killings considered to be isolated incidents. With the equally as brazen Moka incident, this trend of sporadic gun violence has been ushered into 2015, leaving eight people dead over two years and a community speculating as to who’s behind it and why it’s happening in a city known to be one of the safest in Canada.

As it stands, police are still unclear as to the Moka shooter’s motivation.

“We don’t know motive. We don’t Aug/Sept 2015

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VIOLATIONS CAUSING DEATH 155

YO K REGI YOR REGI EG ON

NUM NUMBER UM MBER B R OF O VVIO OLA LATI TIO ONS N

1122 9 6

VAUG AU HAN AN RICHMO RIC HMO OND N HIL H L HI

3 M KHA MA MAR H M

0

200 2 007 00 07 07

200 0 8

20009

2 0 201

2011 20 201

201 2 012 0

20 201 2013 0 3

20 4 201

Y R YEA

2014 2010 2014

0.66

1.22

7 14

Increase of 85.5%

“When you want to learn about what you have here, you go somewhere else.

When you come back, you’ll kiss the ground.” But he’s also conscious of this violent problem and concerned about the ominous possibilities it presents.

“We’re moving to the negative side, little by little,” he adds. “And nobody wants to say that, but that’s happening.

It’s happening here.”

It’s certainly understandable why citizens may feel apprehensive under the cloud of these shootings, as periodic as they may be. But do the numbers support such views?

According to the YRP’s Statistical Report for 2014, over the past five years York Region has seen a noticeable drop in crime all around. Crime rates for sexual violations, assault and robbery have all dropped and the overall rate for crimes against persons has steadily declined from 2010 to 2014 by nearly 20 per cent.

In Vaughan, this trend is largely the same. The rate for total crimes against

TOTAL

2010

VAUGHAN

CRIME RATE

TOTAL

YORK REGION

CRIME RATE

know who was the intended target in this case,” says Const. Laura Nicolle, a spokesperson for the YRP, when asked about possible reasoning behind the Moka shooting. Police won’t speculate on the matter, either. But the Moka shooting does have a different feel than past shootings and, as Nicolle adds, doesn’t seem to “fit the pattern.”

Indeed, last year’s shootings showed a clear indication as to who the targets were — the executed individuals were the sole focus of whatever rage or vengeance or display of power motivated the assassin and his employer.

But what transpired at Moka appears to lack such cold, surgical precision. With two wounded and two dead, all having no obvious connection to each other outside of the café, the Moka shooting has all the qualities of arbitrary brutality, of desired attention, of a resounding exhibition of dominance.

And that’s perhaps what’s most frightening about the Moka shooting: the seemingly senseless, indiscriminate and intentionally conspicuous violence of it all.

Residents along Pioneer Lane, the quiet neighbourhood across the street from the crime scene, offer mixed reactions to the shooting. Many simply don’t want to talk, some because you’re the media, others because they’ve said their piece to police. Those that do will tell you that, yes, it’s tragic and a little unnerving, but they feel the community is still a safe one — and besides: What are people to do? Never leave the house?

“It’s a shame,” says one man, who asked not to be named, of the shooting.

He frequents the variety store next door to Moka and would see some of the victims from time to time. It’s hard to stomach, seeing as he has children and it’s so close to home. But he still feels the neighbourhood isn’t a dangerous one. “I think these are isolated incidents,” he says. “I still consider it a safe area.”

An elderly gentleman in the neighbourhood, who also asked not to be identified, felt the shooting was “intimidating,” but feels the answer isn’t to remain locked up in your home. As an immigrant himself, he understands how bad things can be in other countries. “We are lucky to have this type of police force,” he explains.

2010 2014

0.34

1.57

1

5 Increase of 361.8%

persons has declined by 15.4 per cent over the past half a decade, and what’s more, the crime rate in the city has been reduced by an impressive 27.4 per cent over the past decade. These numbers have consistently rated Vaughan, and York Region as a whole, as one of the safest communities in the country.

(See infographic for more in-depth statistics.)

But while crime in general is on the decline, these shootings have been part of an upward trend of what the YRP describes as “Violations Causing Death.” VCDs include all homicides, such as first-degree murder, seconddegree murder and manslaughter, and criminal negligence causing death. From 2007 to 2010, Vaughan averaged less than one VCD per year — meaning less than one homicide per year — with a rate that peaked at 0.37 per 100,000 people in 2008.

But since 2011, Vaughan has had no less than three VCDs each year, with four in 2011, three in 2012, three www.mycitylife.ca

CRIME

RATES YORK REGION

CRIME RATE

ASSAULT CRIME RATE

PER 100,000 PEOPLE 2010

2014

333.06 2010

19.6%

663.95

2014

14.2% 533.56

CRIME RATE PER 100,000 PEOPLE 2010

2014

15.4%

694.93

587.94

in 2013 and five in 2014. Those five homicides in 2014 — the four shootings plus a double stabbing at Canada’s Wonderland in October that left one dead — proved to be the most in the city since 2003. In fact, in the past four years, from 2011 to 2014, Vaughan has experienced a total of 15 VCDs — two more than the 13 from the previous seven years combined.

Which is what makes these recent shootings so puzzling and unnerving. In a city where crime overall seems to be on the decline, why are citizens seeing such open displays of fatal, purposeful violence?

A possible reason may have been uncovered in the aftermath of the Moka shooting. About two weeks after the investigation began, police released information that evidence of a “gaming operation” had been found at the café — things such as cards, card tables and electronic gaming machines.

Const. Nicolle explains that police are not calling it gambling, as that would www.mycitylife.ca

285.91

VAUGHAN ASSAULT CRIME RATE 305.45 349.66 2010

2014

12.6%

Information sourced from the York Regional Police’s annual Statistical Report

require evidence of the exchange of money. They’re also not speculating as to whether this links the shooting to criminal activity, despite obvious assumptions as to what these items mean. “We’re not speculating or going down that road right now, but obviously our investigators are going to look at every possibility,” she says.

But some reports have suggested that the café has a history of ties to criminal activity. One newspaper article noted that Doppio Espresso Bar, the business that occupied the space before Moka opened in March of this year, was known to be a place where organized crime members regularly congregated.

Even Carmine Verduci, the now deceased heavyweight in the Toronto mafia, was said to periodically appear at the former café. The police, however, have not confirmed whether organized crime members have ever met in the building.

For organized crime expert Antonio Nicaso, author of 28 books on the

subject, finding evidence of a gaming operation at the crime scene shouldn’t seem out of the ordinary. “York Region,” he says, “is traditionally known in the underworld for money laundering operations and gambling.” Nicaso explains that gambling is a major issue because of its profitability and lowered risk for criminals. Other illegal activities such as drug manufacturing, smuggling and selling have huge risks and involve much manpower to move and distribute product. But a gambling operation may only require a single individual recording numbers on a piece of paper. Debts can be collected afterward, making it difficult to detect.

“Sometimes it’s a problem that’s underestimated,” Nicaso says, “but it’s a phenomenon that generates a lot of money.”

While Nicaso acknowledges that the reason for the shooting is still unclear, he gives several reasons for its possibility — if, that is, the incident indeed has ties to criminal organizations. One possibility is that there is infighting within a criminal group in the area, perhaps a play at the “forced acquisition” of bars and cafés that are used for gambling.

Nicaso explains that in York Region the big name in terms of organized crime is the ’Ndrangheta, a Calabria-based syndicate of mafia families, but there are also emerging groups, such as the Albanians and Russians. Maybe even new players are trying to muscle for their spot at the table, given how the Moka shooting is quite different from traditional mob hits.

“Usually hired killers tend to choose their targets carefully rather than openly fire in busy spots,” Nicaso says. “It seems like the killer was not a professional one and seems that he shot randomly, and most likely the two victims were not the targets of his actions.”

The shooter, he adds, was possibly trying to send a message. But to whom?

One of the victims or someone else inside? The café? Another party? “That’s the big question,” Nicaso says.

Despite the conspicuous nature of these shootings, Nicaso doesn’t believe that citizens should panic. York Region, he says, is still a safe place to live and work, as the criminal organizations here will likely want to keep their interests Aug/Sept 2015

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PHOTO BY MICHAEL HILL

secure. “It’s the place where they invest the money,” he says. “So traditionally you keep safe the place where you invest the money.” Adding: “I don’t think there is an interest to ruin the balance.”

But Nicaso also believes gambling shouldn’t be just a law enforcement issue. It should be a political one. “I think everybody should be looking into fighting this problem in the proper way, not underestimating the consequences and effects of illegal gambling,” he says.

In an email interview, Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua explains that the city works closely with the YRP on a number of safety initiatives and that he has “complete confidence” in Police Chief Eric Jolliffe and his team. Safety, he adds, is a top priority for city council, as it’s one residents expect in a growing city.

“We understand the public’s concern over the shootings, but we should not be living in fear,” he says. “The City of Vaughan has consistently ranked among the highest municipalities in all of Canada when it comes to safety.

These tragic incidents appear to be isolated and not intended for the wider community.”

On the police front, Const. Nicolle explains that there are a number of initiatives underway to combat criminal organizations. For the sake of security and strategy, however, she can’t reveal specifics. But she points to the recent success of Project OPHOENIX, an initiative by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU), where 19 arrests of ’Ndrangheta members were made. This joint-forces investigation, which involved elements of the RCMP as well as Toronto, York, Durham, Peel and Ontario Provincial Police, began in May 2013 and involved drug importation and trafficking, firearms trafficking, extortion, laundering and more. Arrests were made all over the GTA in early June and included three Vaughan men.

In a released statement, Supt. Keith Finn, the officer in charge of the GTA CFSEU, says, “The presence of such organized crime groups brings an element of criminality to our communities that is unacceptable,” and that all the CFSEU members “are committed to ensuring people

A memorial laid by the roadside out front of Moka Espresso Bar & Gelato, where four people were shot, two of them fatally, in June

“

I THINK EVERYBODY SHOULD BE LOOKING INTO FIGHTING THIS PROBLEM IN THE PROPER WAY, NOT UNDERESTIMATING THE CONSEQUENCES AND EFFECTS OF ILLEGAL GAMBLING” — Antonio Nicaso, author and organized crime expert

committing these crimes are held responsible.”

For the rest of citizens here in Vaughan there’s not much else to do aside from bringing any pertinent information to police. At the time of writing the Moka investigation is still ongoing and the shooter, described by police as a six-foot black male with a muscular build, is still at large. The YRP has released a clear image of the suspect where he’s surveying Moka the day before the shooting, giving hope that exposing his face will help bring him to justice. His motivation, however, remains unknown, shrouding any answers in mystery, rumour and speculation. Who was the target of the attack? In what order were the victims shot? Why were two left alive while two were killed? Police don’t have an answer,

and if they do they aren’t releasing it.

The city is left with questions.

About a week after the shooting, it seems the city is back to its usual hum. People have returned to the strip mall — some drift in and out of the convenience store next door to Moka, others enter and exit the real estate office three doors down. An employee at Cross Convenience, the adjacent convenience store to Moka, explains that an individual working on the day of the shooting quit, but won’t say anything more. The only signs of that violent morning are the newspapers and blue tarp covering Moka’s windows and a small memorial of flowers laid by the roadside. Business, it seems, has returned to normal.

And why wouldn’t it? As the numbers show, the city, overall, is a safe one. The crime rate for homicides in Vaughan was only at 1.57 per 100,000 people in 2014 despite the shootings. And eight murders over two years, while brazen and unsettling and tragic as they have been, are not uncommon for larger cities. Mississauga had eight homicides in 2011 and seven in 2012. Last year Brampton too experienced seven, and even Richmond Hill, which aside from King had the highest average home prices in York Region last year, had five homicides in 2014.

But that doesn’t mean these acts should be ignored or accepted as the norm. The possibility of something can be less than one in a million, but none of that matters when it actually hits home, when it’s your family that’s robbed of a loved one. The shootings of the past two years don’t appear to be crimes of passion or spur-of-themoment incidents. They have planning and purpose and meaning, and a root that can be addressed.

Concerns will linger while this type of gun violence persists, and questions will always remain. Questions like: Will the city see more bloodshed in the future? Or will the work by police or the desire to maintain balance, as Nicaso noted, restrain that form of violence?

Only time will give answers. Until then, the city will carry on, as it must, with the possibilities of the past ever present, like long shadows cast from our feet on a sunny June morning. www.mycitylife.ca

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Thank yo DA ANI g eppenddencce The Princess Margaret Cancer - Michael Jamma Fou oundation The Olive Branch for Children Safehaven Project for C Community Living Vaaughan aSSince augh ine Mayor’s M Motion iona &Villa VGolf illaevents Chhave Charities ariitiraised ies more Foundation Found Seniors Associa Senio ssociation of Vaughan ce h 2011, 0an, the t in ayorostGala Ga thanation $3.4 million millio Initiative itiative tiroceedtiivhaveSAVI tiative SA Elspeth El th Heyworth H th Centre C t For Women RecAssist Program - City of Proceeds gone to help more than 100 not-for-profit & community organizations that play a vital role in shaping the City of Vaughan. www.mycitylife.ca Aug/Sept 2015 City Life Magazine Vaughan Humanity Firstwomen’s IC Youth Hospice Thornhill Maple 53Lions Youth, seniors, special education, centres,Organization arts & culture, and more.

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ho should you expect to meet when sitting down with Candace Bushnell, author of Sex and the City?

Would she come wearing Manolo Blahniks just like her most famous character, the eccentric Carrie Bradshaw?

Or would she appear in the silver sequined top hat of P.J. Wallis, the slightly temperamental and anxious lead of her newly minted novel?

As it turns out, neither.

“It’s interesting: as human beings we like to put things into categories. It’s how we understand the world,” says Bushnell as she sips her tea at the Ritz Bar. “I am best known for Sex and the City and Carrie Bradshaw — so people bring what they know to my work.

It’s natural that people make those comparisons.”

Bushnell, 56, is in Toronto as part of her book tour promoting Killing Monica, a sharp, witty novel that chronicles the life of prominent writer P.J. (Pandy) Wallis and her character, Monica, who surpasses her in terms of fame and fortune. Wallis is in an existential crisis, wanting to move on to other literary works while her fans and publishers request that she keep writing more Monica books.

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Bushnell has experienced her own form of mistaken identity when it comes to her most popular creation, Carrie Bradshaw.

Portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker in the HBO sitcom, which spawned two feature films that pulled in $700 million worldwide at the box office, it’s easy to see why readers and critics of the franchise see Bushnell and Bradshaw as one in the same.

Both wrote their own sex and lifestyle columns. Both were transplanted New Yorkers. Both have an affinity for fashion. And while Bradshaw may be her alter ego, they are not identical, with the former possessing much more commitment and emphasis on her craft.

And while she knows that readers will still draw comparisons between herself and her characters, she wants everyone to know that she is her own person.

She is still the woman who grew up in Glastonbury, Conn., with her parents and two sisters. She is still the woman who achieved her dream of moving to New York to become a successful novelist. That is her identifier — a novelist. “I always felt that I’ve written what I wanted to write and just really live my life as the novelist that I always would have been.” www.candacebushnell.com

Aug/Sept 2015

From the mind that brought you Sex and the City, international bestselling author Candace Bushnell chats with City Life Magazine about her new novel, Killing Monica Written By Daniel Calabretta

According to Bushnell, one of the most significant themes in Killing Monica is identity, more specifically, the mistaken identity, and how people often tend to create an infallible, idealized version of themselves. “In Shakespeare, the mistaken identity is a very big device,” says Bushnell. “When I started the book, I knew that I wanted to go in that direction.”

www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO BY SAL PASQUA

FINDING OUT CANDACE

SUITE TALK Home Décor

Fendi armchairs, ADL sofas and Larsen-Sumika-Silver curtains give the living room a relaxed, airy mood, while the Rico sculpture, vintage ceramic blue vase, Tom Dixon bronze vases and Stéphanie Coutas-fashioned coffee table add conversation-starting details

www.mycitylife.ca

Design darling Stéphanie Coutas brings Paris to life in the middle of New York City Written By Amanda Storey

Aug/Sept 2015

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home decor

téphanie Coutas has clients in high places. The American interior designer’s work is upheld with the same prestige as a Gucci purse — with its perfect synergy between beauty and expert craftsmanship, her style evokes the same allure. It might be her background in fashion, a field she pursued before launching her design firm 1001 Maisons in 2005 that aids this ability, which has transfixed elites across the globe.

She’s given new faces to luxury yachts and private homes in France and abroad. On her plate right now is an assortment of projects more colourful, and more enticing, than a candy dish: from furnishing a villa in Cairo to a palace in the Middle East, to decorating private apartments in Paris, to preparing for the launch of her own bespoke furniture, Coutas has won the heart of the luxury design world.

One corner of the designer’s talent is devoted to revamping hotel suites.

Recently, a New York-based actress discovered the work Coutas had done for some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and fell for the unique look she had created. The actress commissioned 56

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Coutas to design a pied-à-terre with the spirit of Paris, something that spoke the same language as the luxury hotels the actress frequented. It was a thrilling challenge for Coutas, who had just recently begun the redecoration of a 15th-century, four-star hotel in Burgundy, France.

For inspiration, Coutas looked to the Golden Triangle, one of the swankiest sections of Paris that’s tucked between Avenues Montaigne and Georges V. The result was a cosy, light-filled space that was true to Coutas’s signature blend of femininity and strength.

The designer assembled some of her most elite connections to complete the look, including Larsen, Rubelli and Lelièvre for curtains and fabrics, Tai Ping Carpets that she designed herself, Pouenat lighting and Bisazza mosaic tiles.

A tour of the revamped residence is like a trip into the heart and soul of Paris.

While the City of Light is a constant object of desire in the interior design world, Coutas effortlessly recreated a pocket of Paris in the middle of New York City. www.stephaniecoutas.com

A smooth black counter and Les Marbreries de la Seine wall detail juxtapose pristine flooring and an Aquamass-Stone One bathtub

“ THE RESULT WAS

A COSY, LIGHTFILLED SPACE THAT WAS TRUE TO COUTAS’S SIGNATURE BLEND OF FEMININITY AND STRENGTH

”

www.mycitylife.ca

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home decor

STÉPHANIE COUTAS, founder of interior architecture and decoration agency 1001 Maisons

In clockwise order: The dining area features a table, mirrors and ceiling lights designed by Coutas with a Tai Ping rug, ceramic items by Jean Girel and painting by Rico. The guest room is adorned with beds by Elite, bedcovers from Rubelli, photography by Lumas and a bedside table designed by Coutas. A celestial accent wall by Bisazza gives beautiful contrast to this clean, modern bathroom, which includes a sink and mirror from Cosmic and shower and taps from Gessi. Opposite the plush Elite bed, with its Brun de Vian-Tiran linen and cushions designed by Coutas, is this simple yet lovely seating area with Bomat rug, Boiler armchairs and ADL stool and desk

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www.mycitylife.ca

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1 HIGH SHINE There is something to be said about pure elegance stemming from simplicity. The Super White porcelain tile offers a high-gloss polish and full drama with its stark solid whiteness. Available in 24”x24” and 12”x24” www.mosconetile.com

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Style steal: get designer Stéphanie Coutas’ss signature look with these key pieces for your home 7

9 FLY ME TO THE MOON Traditional dark wood is juxtaposed by modern steel detail in this expertly crafted Crescent End Table www.modernsensefurniture.com 60

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2 SLEEK SURFACES URFACES Nero Assoluto Black’s polished slab countertop with undermount sinks and front apron is a popular pick for a modern setting www.mosconemarble.com 3 STYLE SQUARED The versatile, laser-cut Foley Cube bench can be used as an ottoman, a seat or a side table while adding a bold pop of colour to your space.

Available in red, black and white www.modernsensefurniture.com ALL THAT GLITTERS 4 AL Simple yet elegant, this 5-footSim by-3.5-inch Remy Floor Lamp by by-3 Arteriors for Prima Lighting features Arte textured brass finish that will a te brighten up any space brig www.arteriorshome.com / www.primalighting.ca www G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S 5G The upholstered velvet Glamorous Bench exudes regal elegance and Ben the glamour of old Hollywood.

A il bl in Available i six i b beautifully tif ll crafted ft d colours www.modernsensefurniture.com 6 EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY The gorgeous antique silver-leaf finish and four mirrored doors of the Borghese Buffet breathe timeless elegance into your dining area www.zillihome.com 7 JOIE DE VIVRE The giclée-style print of 1960s French model Nicole de la Marge in a Peter Shepherd velvet cap, 1965, is available in many sizes and instantly adds a dash of elegance to your surroundings www.art.com 8 OM SHANTI SHANTI SHANTI This one-of-a-kind “Enlightened One” vintage lamp by Austin Productions, 1962, features a reproduction of the Thai Buddhist temple sculpture “Serene Buddha” www.annexpawn.com www.mycitylife.ca

TEXT BY BIANCA RICCI

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EXCELLENCE IN HARDWOOD The floor is more than the ground we walk on — it’s the fifth wall in a room, the platform on which we live and work and play.

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hen the late for-profit organization.

John Lennon She’s an experienced was five his social worker and the coschoolteachers founder and former owner asked him what he wanted to of Adventure Valley Day be when he grew up. Rather Camp. Since the launch than “famous” or “frontman of her book five years ago, of one of the best bands Fishman has become a in history,” he wrote down sought-after inspirational what his mother told him speaker, travelling across was the key to life — to be North America to share happy. “They told me I didn’t her story of resilience and understand the assignment,” hope with audiences at he said, “and I told them they book clubs, high schools didn’t understand life.” and charity events.

Forty-five years ago, when “There are so many Lynda Fishman was an early triggers that happen teen, her mother, Rita, and throughout life when you two younger sisters, Carla and think everything is fine Wendy, perished in an airplane and then you get hit with crash just outside Toronto. a birthday or a special Lynda Fishman at home with Lexy, one of her three rescued dogs With three of her beloved occasion or Mother’s Day family members never or Father’s Day and returning home, you plummet again.

Fishman was left alone The message in my to cope as her father story is that we can plunged into the kind survive and thrive; of grief that steals your we can create a new spirit and will to live. normal.”

Like Lennon, Today, and every Fishman knew early day, Fishman makes on that happiness was a choice, and the choice to be happy.

Local author talks love, making that choice would be key to a www.repairingrainbows.com loss and making the full life — especially in the aftermath choice to be happy of great loss. “My mother always taught us that health and happiness were the LYNDA FISHMAN’S EIGHT Written By Simona Panetta most important things in life,” says HAPPY-INDUCING CHOICES: Fishman, author of Repairing Rainbows, a powerful book that details her fight to push forward after the deaths of Surround yourself with her mother and sisters in July of 1970. positive people.

“One of my favourite expressions is that Look ahead — don’t look back. we need contrast for clarity because I believe that when we see what we don’t Help others. want in life it becomes clear what we do want in life. Seeing my father go Express gratitude. through a state of non-existence rather Stay busy. than live his life was clarity for me. I knew that’s what I didn’t want. I knew Have faith and patience. it’s not what my mother would have wanted me to be.”

Spend time with animals.

Today, Fishman, 58, has been Choose positive thoughts. married for 36 years and has three Repairing Rainbows details author Lynda children, two grandchildren and Fishman’s journey after losing her mother and three dogs she rescued from a not- sisters in a plane crash

Lynda fishman

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www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO BY SAL PASQUA

REPAIRING RAINBOWS

THE VITA LIFE

Fine Dining.

Dr. Janine Bowring brings a healthy dose of well-being to Africa

WORLD-CLASS RESTAURANT. AUTHENTIC MEDITERRANEAN ITALIAN CUISINE.

Written By Daniel Calabretta

Since opening in 2004, Villaggio Ristorante has quickly become a mainstay of Vaughan’s competitive dining scene. Its award-winning Mediterranean Italian dishes feature only the freshest ingredients and are prepared with passion and imagination. Enjoy succulent Black Angus New York steak, Quattro Formaggi pizza and pappardelle in tomato lamb sauce, all in an upscale,

PHOTO PROVIDED BY VITATREE NIGERIA

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contemporary atmosphere in the historic village of Kleinburg.

ou may have seen her on the Shopping Channel or read her book, The Healthy Millionaire, but what you may not know about naturopathic doctor Janine Bowring is her endeavour to promote health and vitality in Africa.

During a recent visit to Lagos, Nigeria, Bowring, a formulator of VitaTree Nutritionals, launched her whole-food vitamin and supplement lines at the Lagos Oriental Hotel.

Bowring and the team of researchers associated with VitaTree Nutritionals received tremendous praise for introducing much-needed formulations in a country where rates of cancer, heart disease and stroke are on the rise.

One of the highest-selling items included VitaTree’s VitaDetox, a formula that works to improve internal health and detoxify internal organs. Bowring explains that this can be attributed to the fact that most Nigerians do not receive an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables within their daily diet.

One of the objectives of the visit was to advise individuals on how to partake in a nutritionally enriched diet. “It was a great opportunity for people to tune in and for us to educate and inform them how to be proactive about their own health,” says Bowring. www.vitatree.ca Janine Bowring is a naturopathic doctor who graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto in 1998. She is also a recipient of the Dr. Michael Rahman Award

www.mycitylife.ca

905-893-4888 110 Nashville Road, Unit 11, Kleinburg, Ont. Aug/Sept 2015 City Life Magazine www.villaggio-ristorante.ca

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Lifers

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PHOTOS BY SAL PASQUA

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LIFER |'līf r | e

Someone who has given their heart and soul and committed every ounce of energy to pursuing an activity like snowboarding, skateboarding or surfing ... anything inspired by pure, unadulterated joy and happiness Written By Amanda Storey

PHOTOS BY MATT ALBERTS

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att Alberts’ camera can see into your soul.

A few years ago, Alberts grew a bit bored of digital photography, craving a grittier, more hands-on way to go about his work. After finding some old photographs left by his grandfather, he decided to dabble in wet-collodion photography, a 19th-century technique known for its sensitivity to ultraviolet light, long exposure times and longlasting images. Some, like Alberts, say that it allows the lens to see beyond the skin and straight into the subject’s soul. Which is perfect for him, because he’s working on a project that involves capturing the very essence of a person on film.

The Lifers Project is Alberts’ baby — or more accurately, it’s his artsy, vivacious teenage kid. Since 2013, the photographer has been travelling America in pursuit of “Lifers,” people who have truly, wholly devoted their lives to pursuing their passions — most typically skateboarding, which Alberts says is the heart of the project. He snaps pictures of these adventurers, visually logging their lifestyles that all share common themes: boldness, optimism, power and pushing limits.

Alberts had been on the road meeting and documenting Lifers for two years when his project caught

the eye of Cadillac. In February of 2015, the photographer teamed up with the car company to work on a new initiative within the Lifers Project: the Seasons Collection.

“The idea was to create a unique and timeless collection of wet-collodion photographs that showcase and bring life to the spirit of Lifers — people who dedicate their lives to their passions,” says the 34-year-old. “The collection captures the adventure-driven stories of people from a variety of locations and backgrounds who live life to the fullest.”

The Seasons Collection is comprised of three sub-collections: Snow (which follows snowboarders, skiers and snowmobilers), Sun (skateboarders and cyclists) and Water (surfboarders).

Alberts just finished up the first two series, which led him to spots across the country, from Seattle to Los Angeles — and even let him point his lens at skateboarding legends John Cardiel, Ray Barbee, J. Grant Brittain, Tony Hawk and Steve Berra.

Water, the third and final instalment of the collection, is set to kick off this September, and once all of the seasons are complete, the entire project will be showcased at a viewing in New York City this December. Cadillac vehicles will be on display next to the original photographs — a sight that’ll make any appreciator of good art weak in the

knees. But before that happens, there’s a lot of work to be done.

“Each trip is about a month long, but there are months of planning before and months after for varnishing, framing and so forth,” says Alberts, who travels from place to place with his two custom Cadillacs, one towing an Airstream trailer and the other towing a portable darkroom, usually meeting his subjects as he goes and letting the whole process come together organically. “The Seasons Collection takes place over the course of this year — but the Lifers Project may never end.”

When Alberts talks about his work, his passion is clear in his words — he’s as much of a Lifer as his subjects. While he’s also an avid skateboarder and cyclist and says he’d spend a lot more time surfing if he lived closer to water, he’s shown that no matter what your passion is, be it sports or photography, if you pour your soul into it, the result is always a beautiful thing.

“The wet-collodion process is known for capturing images that see beneath the skin, thus exposing the soul and capturing the real person inside — a perfect medium for Lifers,” says Alberts. “I’m following my passion for photography, skateboarding and the documentation of this subculture. That is what it’s all about.” www.thelifersproject.com

1. An 11 x 14 Alumitype of Jim Thiebaud in the wash bath at Delux 2. Matt Alberts at the Berrics, Whitey the Escalade in the reflection 3. Alberts’ Chamonix view camera 4. Making Ray Barbee’s tintype in California 5. Danny Montoya, Frontside Slappy in Los Angeles 6. Blacky the Escalade in San Francisco 7. Camped out at the beach in Pacific City 8. Al Partanen, Noseblunt at Windells 9. Ray Barbee and the 11 x 14 Alumitype Alberts made of him

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WOW

WOW WOW TORONTO, ACCORDING TO JACLYN GENOVESE

WE WERE SO INSPIRED BY MATT ALBERTS’ LIFERS SERIES, WE DECIDED TO LAUNCH OUR OWN. MEET JACLYN GENOVESE, OUR VERY FIRST #CITYLIFER

Genovese’s weekly party at Lost and Found attracts big names including, from left to right, Toronto Raptor Patrick Patterson, Melinda Shankar and Alex Steele from Degrassi and singer-songwriter The Weeknd

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Photos Courtesy of Lost and Found

Written By Amanda Storey

www.mycitylife.ca

Photo By John Packman

Genovese’s work helped enable a paradigm shift in Toronto’s fashion landscape. She was only 22 when she first stepped onto the scene, opening her boutique Jacflash in the city’s west end and helping to reinvigorate a neighbourhood that had lost its shimmer

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Being a city lifer is great because “there’s not one day that I’m not

excited to jump out of bed for.

Every day I’m meeting new people, taking on new challenges and expressing my creativity through my work in the city

An icon in many different fields — fashion, arts and entrepreneurship among them — Genovese constantly has eyes on her. She manages to juggle her three passions by turning to her friends for support and love, by trusting her gut and by tapping into her perfectionist approach to business

”

Photo Courtesy of jacflash.net

verything Jaclyn Genovese touches turns to style. It’s like the 29-year-old was born with the ability to look at something or someone and instinctively conjure up a unique formula for remodelling the subject. As an entrepreneur in the fashion industry, event coordinator and interior designer, she’s performed this ritual for Toronto’s most polished elites, exclusive shindigs and soughtafter spaces. She’s even laid her magic touch on the city itself.

The past decade has seen Toronto undergo a fashionable transformation worthy of an Anne Hathaway flick, and Genovese was only 22 when she helped play the role of stylist in this metropolis-sized makeover. Her first contribution to making this city shine a little brighter was opening Jacflash, a luxury boutique in the Queen and Ossington area — which at the time was much grittier than the hip ’hood it is now. By bringing her savvy in the fashion and business worlds to this corner of the city, Genovese was one of the many business owners to elevate it to the popular spot it is today (just ask Vogue Magazine, which voted Queen Street West the second-hippest neighbourhood on the planet in 2014).

Despite her authority on Toronto’s social scene, there’s a lot we don’t know about Jaclyn Genovese. But if you look hard enough, pieces of her personality can be found sprinkled throughout her work. Some artists use canvases to channel their expression, and that’s what Jacflash represents for Genovese: the boutique embodies the entrepreneur’s multi-dimensional personality, from her secret tomboy status (“I was into every possible sport growing up, and I love the outdoors”) to her love of opera (“I am a classically trained singer — I sing in an orchestra”). Her style spans the entire spectrum, from trendyboyish to red-carpet-worthy, and that’s exactly what Toronto’s shoppers find at Jacflash.

While Genovese’s life may look like a fairy tale to her Instagram followers, she says that when it comes to business, as rewarding as every breakthrough is, it’s rarely rosy — especially when you’re in your early 20s and running an operation on your own. In 2013,

www.mycitylife.ca

after eight years of Jacflash existing on Queen West, Genovese made the tough decision to close its doors and transition the boutique to an online fashion shop.

“I felt that I was no longer growing or learning anything as a person,” says Genovese. “The options I gave myself were to either open another store or move forward and expand the brand. As I love a challenge, I decided to expand Jacflash into a lifestyle brand to include fashion, spaces and events.”

And so began Chapter 2 of Jacflash, wherein Genovese not only digitized her brainchild but also introduced Toronto to her event co-ordinating services and her interior design firm, Spaces by Jacflash. It was a big step but a good call. In its online form, the Jacflash boutique continues to provide the balm to Toronto’s fashion-related aches, while the city has fallen in love with Genovese’s event co-ordinating skills. One of her most prominent projects is the weekly party she throws at Lost and Found on King West (Deadmau5, Karrueche and an array of major sports stars have all stopped by, and the bash even got a shout-out in one of The Weeknd’s latest songs). And while it’s less than a year old, Spaces by Jacflash has swiftly risen to the top of the city’s list of most-wanted interior design agencies. The proof is in Genovese’s schedule: right now she’s putting the finishing touches on a Queenand-Bathurst-based clothing shop, Untitled&Co.; redesigning the men’s boutique Get Fresh Company in the same neighbourhood; and snazzing up a condo that belongs to one of the Toronto Raptors.

Genovese juggles her to-dos with a grace that is signature to many millennials. She has intelligence about her that evokes respect without demanding it, and an elegance that has the city’s stylish circles swooning.

While she attributes her organizational skills to her sign (she’s a Virgo), she has some other secrets to surviving — and loving — a frenzied city life. She keeps her cool by working alongside her loved ones (happily ignoring the “don’t mix friends with business” rule) and smashes the stereotypes surrounding women in business by growing a thick skin and never taking no for an answer. And when you ask her for the staple that every young businesswoman needs in her life?

“Good friends,” says Genovese, who’s planning a birthday trip to Greece this August with some close chums. “As a businesswoman, you may lose superficial friends that don’t understand you not being available as often as they would like www.mycitylife.ca

The fresh interior design of Untitled&Co’s Queen Street location is courtesy of Genovese, whose design firm, Spaces

by Jacflash, has been a tremendous hit among Toronto’s stylemakers

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Photo By Jaclyn Genovese

Photo By Tanvi M

Photo By Tanvi M

you to be, but having good, supportive friends that you can talk to and get advice from about everything going on in your life is a lifesaver.”

Now the darling of Toronto’s fashion industry is bracing herself for the transition into another whirlwind of a season, during which she hopes to make her city even prouder by bringing her creativity to an international stage. And, of course, she’ll be doing it in her summer-to-fall ensemble of choice: the suit. #Slay.

But no matter where her business takes her next — and we know it will be somewhere great — Genovese’s heart will always belong to her city.

“Being a city lifer is great because there’s not one day that I’m not excited to jump out of bed for,” says Genovese.

“Every day I’m meeting new people, taking on new challenges and expressing my creativity through my work in the city.” www.jacflash.net

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While Spaces by Jacflash has been instrumental in orchestrating how many of the city’s businesses are presented to the public, Genovese is also bringing her sharp style to homes, including to the condo of a Toronto Raptor

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FLOURWORKS

For over 18 years, Mario has brought you quality & artisan artisan bakedd goods, goods ds, from his bake shop s to your table

Visit us at 13305 Hwy 27 Just North of King in Nobleton, Ont.

905-859-CAKE (2253) www.mariosbakeshop.ca

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faces of vaughan

Meet the steady-handed tattoo artists applying ink to skin in Vaughan Written By Michael Hill

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oronto may be the premier destination for tattoos here in the Greater Toronto Area — if not the country — but when it comes to gifted artists, Vaughan isn’t short on talent. City Life Magazine hops into the chairs of some of the most skilled and inventive tattooists in the city to find out what makes them tick.

JON JAJJO Artist at Addicted Tattoos & Body Piercing Despite a star-studded client list, Jon Jajjo isn’t one to brag — he prefers to let his artwork do the talking. While only tattooing professionally for five years, the soft-spoken, self-taught artist possesses a portfolio that could pass for a grey-bearded veteran’s. Join his 10,000-plus Instagram followers (@jtattoos) and you’ll find plenty of highly detailed, realistic pieces full of busy elements all blended beautifully in his preferred black and grey. You have to pry to get him to open up about working on Toronto Raptors’ Terrence Ross and James Johnson, as well as Stanley Cup champion Jamal Mayers.

And when on the topic, he remains modest, describing the experience as “normal” and each client as “just another person.” Growing up he was more likely sketching in class than jotting notes and started tattooing out of his basement after high school. But he really developed into an artist after landing at Addicted Tattoos & Body Piercing. When it comes to the most important part of the job, he says it’s all about giving clients the best tattoo they can get. “That’s it,” he says with a soft shrug and an easy smile. www.addictedtattoos.com

PHOTOS BY SAL PASQUA

LUISA PARISELLI Artist at Dreamworx Ink When Luisa Pariselli made the move into the tattooing industry, she wanted to apply the style she’d developed through her first artistic love: painting.

A life-long painter who formally trained at the Ontario College of Art and Design, Pariselli was drawn to the new-age style of trash polka, a www.mycitylife.ca

Left: Jon Jajjo, artist at Addicted Tattoos & Body Piercing, has tattooed high-profile athletes, including Toronto Raptors’ Terrence Ross Top: Dreamworx Ink artist Luisa Pariselli specializes in a form of tattooing called trash polka and has drawn clients from across Canada, the U.S. and Europe Bottom: Owner of Sakred Skinz and an accomplished wildlife artist, Shawn Legrow has tattooed all manners of people, from a millionaire businessman to a priest

trend that emerged from Germany and features loose applications of heavy black saturation and red highlighting.

She’s melded this style into her work for the past fives years she’s been working at Dreamworx Ink, combining the look of vivid brush strokes and paint splatter with static black lines to create an illusion of movement and the feeling of modern art. And while this upbeat, affable artist has drawn clients from across Canada, the U.S., France, England and the Netherlands, she’s a firm believer in the collaborative approach. She loves the one-on-one with people and the reasons behind their tattoos, but it’s “also the back and forth of them making me better with the creation process, because they’ll push me. If they don’t like something they’ll ask to change it and the piece gets stronger,” she says. “It’s not just me.” www.dreamworxink.com SHAWN LEGROW Owner/artist at Sakred Skinz Shawn Legrow has tattooed people from all walks of life. From the back of a millionaire businessman to red crosses on each palm of a priest, Legrow has seen it all — which is what he loves about the job: hearing the stories of unique individuals. An accomplished wildlife artist, Legrow opened Sakred Skinz in Bolton in 2011 after tattooing part-time for close to a decade. And while he’s got stories to spare, his most memorable client is a 63-year-old woman dying of cancer. The classy woman — not the type you’d picture with ink — wanted to rejuvenate her old pieces when she found out she had a disease that chemo couldn’t treat. Legrow has been making her two flowers, a hummingbird, a butterfly and a piece with her kids’ names bright and new again. “She’s the toughest woman that I’ve ever met, and she always has a smile on her face,” he says. Humble and reserved, Legrow explains he just loves seeing the smiles on his clients’ faces.

“As long as I do good tattoos and make people happy, and I’m an honest person, I should do all right in this business,” he says. www.sakredskinz.com Aug/Sept 2015

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FESTIVAL Bill Marshall, co-founder of TIFF and NIFF, says film festivals are a no-brainer Written By Bianca Ricci

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ven at 76, co-founding father of the Toronto International Film Festival Bill Marshall shows no sign of slowing down.

This past June, after the second annual Niagara Integrated Film Festival, his most recent venture, he told City Life Magazine that, despite having two festivals under his belt, he still has a few other projects in the works, including a secret undertaking that will “make an audience or a city happy.” He’s also tinkering with the idea that it may be time to return to creating his own films.

However, as TIFF clocks in its 40th year, Marshall explains that he always knew the now internationally renowned festival would eventually be as big as it is today — even though he doesn’t know why it took so long. “Its [success was] not because we did anything unusual, we just brought films from all around the world,” he says. Toronto is a highly diverse city, and yet, in those days, it lacked “ethnic television.” So when they began screening international films in 1975, the response was electric.

“We would put Greek movies on, or Italian movies, or Cuban movies, or Asian movies, or Bangladeshi movies, and [people would] come out in droves because they had to see that. So, let’s call TIFF a no-brainer.” tiff.net To read the rest of our interview with the TIFF co-founder, visit www.mycitylife.ca www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTO BY PAUL ALEXANDER

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People & Places

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A RUNDOWN OF LOCAL EVENTS LIGHTING UP THE CITY

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An incredibly juicy steak paired with a superb glass of wine is exactly what you’ll find at XXI Chophouse, located just inside The Doctor’s House in Kleinburg. This small-town hot spot hosted the steakhouse’s grand opening on July 7, 2015, attracting many guests from the surrounding area with a preview taste of a premier dining experience close to home.

Just a short drive north of the city, XXI Chophouse crafts firstrate meals with premium aged cuts of beef complemented by an extensive wine and scotch selection with vintages from all over the world. www.XXIchophouse.com

1. The Graci family: Ben, Benedetto, Chiara, Dante and Angela 2. Sous chef Phong Vang and executive chef Sam Khalil 3. Fernando Zerillo, Marc Graci and Ben Graci Jr. 4. Joe Ursini and fellow guest 5. The XXI Chophouse red carpet 6. Ben Graci Sr. and Bruna Graci 7. Guests attend the XXI Chophouse grand opening 8. Delicious dishes were served for the grand opening of XXI Chophouse on July 7, 2015 9. Marc Graci, Elisa Graci and Brandon Graci 10. Entrance to XXI Chophouse, located inside The Doctor’s House in Kleinburg

PHOTOS BY SAL PASQUA

XXI CHOPHOUSE GRAND OPENING

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Heatwave for SickKids 2015 served up some fun at Sports Village in Vaughan on June 20, 2015. As one of the GTA’s largest volleyball tournaments, the event benefited the SickKids Foundation in the fight against childhood cancer. Two teams from TD Canada Trust Collections and Recovery raised an impressive $6,000 in funds at the 10th annual event. www.sickkidsfoundation.com 1. From top to bottom: Dave Chilicki, Stephen Leslie, Egore Eshenko, Tatjana Deveau; Chris Kim, Brittany Lutes, Jean Taylor, Spencer Leslie, Patricia Trump, Adriana Evangelista, Joginder Kaur; Katherine Slomiany, Armeena Irani, Norma Baines and Stephen Kelesovski

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For sponsorship inquiries, please email events@dolce.ca. For more events, please visit www.citylifemagazine.ca/people_places

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PHOTOS BY ALEXIS SILVANI

HEATWAVE FOR SICKKIDS 2015 — VAUGHAN

People & Places 1

KORHANI COLLAB WITH JILLIAN HARRIS — VAUGHAN

Korhani Home’s creative director Kirsten Korhani hosted a champagne lunch with new collaborator Jillian Harris of Jillian Harris Design at the Korhani Gallery in Vaughan, where guests got a sneak peek at Korhani’s exciting line of upcoming carpet collections. www.korhani.com

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2. Volleyball players serve up a fantastic game while raising money for child cancer research

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www.wholisticbodybuilding.com Aug/Sept 2015

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SHAN GRAND OPENING — VAUGHAN

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The world-famous Canadian swimwear, resort wear and accessories brand SHAN now has a store in Woodbridge! Offering a wide assortment of luxurious swimwear pieces for both men and women, the Montreal-based company has been gaining success in Ontario since the debut of its Yorkville location. At the grand opening of its boutique at 7540 Weston Rd., store manager Nathalie Lévesque told City Life Magazine she expects plenty of foot traffic since it’s the only SHAN store north of Toronto. www.shan.ca

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1. Nathalie Lévesque and Gino Lévesque 2. Inside SHAN Boutique in Woodbridge 3. SHAN designer Chantal Lévesque with guests 4. Gino Lévesque, Nathalie Lévesque, Chantal Lévesque and Jean-François Sigouin at the ribbon cutting for SHAN Boutique 5. SHAN offers a wide assortment of luxurious swimwear and loungewear for both men and women 6. Model Hugo Boivin at the SHAN grand opening

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PHOTOS BY SAL PASQUA

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1. Gino Rosati, City of Vaughan Regional Council, and Domenic Gurreri of Forest Paving 2. Wayne Emmerson, Chairman of York Region, and team 3. Brian Bentz, Barb DiGiulio and Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua 4. John D’Ambrosio, Sandy Figliomeni, Fernando Zerillo of Dolce Media Group and Raffi Tokmakjian 5. Members of the Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Charity Golf Classic Committee

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PHOTOS BY VALERIA MITSUBATA

MAYOR’S GOLF CLASSIC — VAUGHAN

The 2015 annual charity golf tournament for Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua was held on July 7, 2015, at Eagles Nest Golf Club in Vaughan. The charity event, aptly named the Mayor’s Golf Classic, featured a round of golf as well as off-course competitions.

Additionally, there was a barbecue lunch and a gourmet dinner in the evening. All proceeds from the event will help non-profit organizations in and around the City of Vaughan. www.vaughan.ca

People & Places

LEGENDARY CUTS + STYLES

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PHOTO BY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MARIO J. CALLA

COSTI GOLF TOURNAMENT — RICHMOND HILL

Since 1952, COSTI has devoted itself to helping immigrant families in the GTA and Toronto adapt to life in North America.

Some of the services COSTI provides include English as a second language training, housing support and settlement services. On June 15, 2015, supporters visited the DiamondBack Golf Club in Richmond Hill and put their PGA skills to the test while participating in the 14th annual charity golf tournament. The $20,000 raised will help COSTI’s Children and Youth Services. www.costi.org

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YOUNG INSPIRATIONS “SHINE YOUR TALENT” SHOW — TORONTO

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Budding musicians united for the 4th annual Shine Your Talent show, hosted by grassroots organization Young Inspirations on July 18. Hamilton’s Jessie Bower, 17, received the coveted first-place prize for professional recording time at Noble Street Studios in Toronto. A packed house at Toronto’s Tranzac Club was filled with song as 15 young finalists took to the stage and gave it their all for the judges. Founder Jessica Paiva started Young Inspirations with the intent for young aspiring musicians to find a creative outlet and start a professional music career. www.younginspirations.ca

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Jessie Bower, first-place winner of the 4th annual Young Inspirations Shine Your Talent show

Halo and TruLink are compatible with iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5, iPhone 4s, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini 3, iPad mini with Retina display, iPad mini, iPod touch (5th generation) and Apple Watch. Use of Apple Watch requires iPhone 5 or later. “Made for iPod,” “Made for iPhone,” and “Made for iPad” mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod, iPhone, or iPad, respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod, iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch may affect wireless performance.

Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple Watch is a trademark of Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

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Buy a pair of HALO i90’s or i110’s and receive a $500 Apple store gift card 8787 Weston Rd, Unit #7A, Vaughan, ON

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People & Places 1

FREEDOM MEDI-SPA ANNIVERSARY — VAUGHAN

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Daniela Hofmann and the team at Freedom Medi-Spa celebrated two years in the medical esthetics industry by hosting an open house on June 24, 2015. Freedom Medi-Spa, which opened in 2013 and offers innovative skin treatments, was buzzing with new and familiar faces as swag bags and refreshments were handed out to various visitors and clients. The celebratory event also featured door prizes and gave away special promotions. www.freedommedispa.com

EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS — VAUGHAN

Something new and refreshing has popped up at Edible Arrangements. Crowds gathered at 3255 Rutherford Rd. in Vaughan this summer to get a taste of five brand new fresh fruit smoothies inspired by cocktails and now available at Edible Arrangements. The mocktail event featured free drinks on a sunny Saturday afternoon from noon until 5 p.m. www.ediblearrangements.ca

1. Left to right: Sonia Klinger, Daniela Hofmann, Vanessa Budz, Nicole Simmons and Kim Spoorenberg 2. Freedom Medi-Spa in Woodbridge celebrates its second anniversary

Owner Tiziana Cannella and her staff at Edible Arrangements in Vaughan

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NORTH PARK CLEANERS — VAUGHAN

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In celebration of 25 years in service, North Park Cleaners is set to host a customer appreciation day on August 28 at both of its locations on Rutherford Road and Aberdeen Avenue in Woodbridge. Walk-in customers will receive 25 per cent off their next service while enjoying complimentary thankyou cupcakes and coffee at the long-standing dry cleaning company. www.northparkcleaners.com

1. North Park Cleaners’ customer appreciation day highlights 25 years in business 2. Plant manager Long Lor and owner Rick Lamanna

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HAUTE COUTURE FASHION SHOW EVENT — VAUGHAN

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Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design hosted its 9th annual fashion show at Château Le Jardin in Vaughan on July 15, 2015. The Vaughan-based school showcases budding talent in various areas of fashion and design from all ages and skill levels. This year’s show sold out within hours, with over 500 guests in attendance and proceeds going toward the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. www.hcfashionarts.ca

1. Jillian Grafe, Rose Kovarsky, Nicole Dice, Rachel Dice, Joanne Dice, Elissa Contino, Mary Duldouras, Jena Lopreiato, Ashley Grafe 2. Sabrina Capista

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People & Places

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CN TOWER

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PHOTO BY ALEX WEBSTER, PINPOINT NATIONAL

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CN TOWER

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City Life’s Michael Hill was invited to join select media for a day of test driving and fear conquering at Ford’s Living on the Edge event. On June 18, 2015, journalists pushed the redesigned 2015 Ford Edge to its limits and experienced how its driverassist technologies, including nifty Active Park Assist, performed in the field. To end the day, they headed up — way up — to test their personal mettle at a knee-shaking 356 metres above Toronto on the CN Tower’s EdgeWalk. www.ford.ca 1. A group of journalists, and a nervous Ford representative, survey Toronto from 356 metres up during the EdgeWalk 2. The 2015 Ford Edge at Polson Pier, where media test drove the redesigned midsize crossover 3. City Life’s Michael Hill enjoys his time on the EdgeWalk

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People & Places

A DV E R TO R I A L

REAL ESTATE SIMPLIFIED How Forest Hill Real Estate delivers a comfortable experience when buying or selling a home

Bryan Sloss, Managing Partner and Real Estate Broker of Forest Hill Real Estate Inc.

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uying a home is the biggest transaction most people make in their lives, and Bryan Sloss knows how daunting it can be. As a Managing Partner and Real Estate Broker of Forest Hill Real Estate Inc. Brokerage, Sloss aims to streamline the process of buying and selling a home, and make the experience a pleasant one.

“You have a product — a house that you are looking to buy or sell — and my job is to simplify the process, to take away all the stress and worry so you get from point A to point B as easily as possible,” he explains.

Sloss believes the best approach is through collaboration, working as partners with clients and continued agent education. “My big push has always been to make sure my agents are informed and up to date,” says Sloss, who has over 10 years of experience in the industry.

From being aware of developing neighbourhoods to more complex subjects such as legislation changes, market trends and forecasting interest rates, the Forest Hill Real Estate team strives to stay fully informed. This allows Sloss and his agents to find the ideal solution and best value for each client’s unique situation.

“Our job is to have the answer or find it for you,” he says.

“It’s about being true professionals in the field.”

With their current knowledge, accommodating attitudes and access to the resources of over 400 agents within the Forest Hill Real Estate family, Sloss and his team offer a reliable choice for buyers and sellers across the Greater Toronto Area.

From left to right: Danilo Pérez, Chizuko Nakayama, Ross Porter, Yasunori Nakayama, Joseph Manzoli, Halcyon Tan, John Patitucci, Christine Nakamura, David Nakamura, Marco Pignataro

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7787 Yonge St., Suite 201 Thornhill, Ont. 905-709-1800 www.myforesthillagent.com 82

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PHOTO BY NATALIE TOPOLSKI AND GLEN SISON

PANAMA JAZZ CONNECTION

Even during the busy month of the Pan Am Games, Liberty Village swayed to the smooth and seductive sounds of jazz tunes at the 2015 Panama Jazz Connection, hosted by Toronto’s own Jazz.

FM91 and Level 1 Collective. The musical talents of Danilo Pérez, Brian Blade, John Patitucci and the Berklee Global Jazz Institute serenaded festivalgoers. Proceeds from this year’s festival will benefit musical outreach programs in Panama and Canada. www.jazz.fm

People & Places

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PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTEL

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PHOTO BY INDIRA PERSAUD & RAMONA CANNEY

BPW LADIES ON THE LINK — BRAMPTON

The Business and Professional Women’s Club of Brampton teed up once again for its 20th annual Ladies on the Link golf tournament on June 11, 2015. The Caledon Country Club was brought to life by the likes of over 90 golfers who brought their very best on the course. In correlation with Scotiabank’s Bright Future Program, the event raised over $12,000 in the process to support several BPW community partners. www.bpwbrampton.com

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ANDY WARHOL REVISITED EXHIBITION OPENING — TORONTO

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Left to right: Heidi Bryans, Mary Baldisarre, Shirley Steele and Laurie Regan

The legendary Andy Warhol has been immortalized in Toronto’s new exhibit, “Andy Warhol Revisited: A Mirror For Today,” which opened its doors to the public on June 30 at 77 Bloor St. W. and runs until Dec. 30, 2015. The exhibit showcases some of the artist’s most famous pieces, including the Campbell’s Soup Cans painting and Marilyn Monroe portraits. Among the guests in attendance at the grand opening were Traci Melchor from CTV’s The Social, DJ Louie Vega and NHL hockey player Darryl Sittler. www.warholrevisited.com

1. Ron Rivlin, founder of Revolver Gallery 2. Vanessa Matsui and Meghan Heffern 3. Traci Melchor 4. Stacey McKenzie

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Maria Vitale, a resident of the long-term care home Villa Colombo, celebrates her milestone birthday in July with loved ones

www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTOS BY MATISSE HAMEL-NELIS

PHOTO BY MARIA COLUCCI-BATTISTA

CENTENARIAN CANDLES

Villa Colombo resident Maria Vitale celebrated her 100th birthday with family and a tiramisu cake on July 4, 2015. “She has an incredible memory and always thinks of others,” says Irma Morris, a Villa Colombo recreation aide. Born in Italy, Vitale immigrated to Canada in 1954 and has three children and four grandchildren. www.villacharities.com

KROWN RUST CONTROL’S WASH FOR A WISH

Krown Rust Control raised over $34,000 for the Children’s Wish Foundation while attempting to break the world record for most car washes in eight hours at its second Wash for a Wish event on July 18, 2015. Over 3,000 cars were scrubbed with suds at 200 Krown locations across Canada, but the company was unable to beat the 6,277 mark set by Repco Australia and New Zealand in 2012. Krown president Freeman Young, however, felt the company is trending in the right direction, having raised $4,000 more than it did during its first attempt the year prior. Young believes they’ll surpass 5,000 cars next year and is aiming for 6,000 the following year. “Watch and see,” he says. www.krown.com

1. Volunteers gather at Krown’s Markham location to wash cars for the cause 2. Krown Rust Control raised over $34,000 for the Children’s Wish Foundation

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People & Places 1

RIDE TO CONQUER CANCER

Dolce Media Group would like to thank its sponsors for their generous support at this year’s Ride to Conquer Cancer.

Thanks to their generous contributions, the Dolce riding team, which consisted of participants Fernando Zerillo and Sergio Sosa, raised a total of $9,000 in support of cancer research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation during the eighth annual Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer. The event was a success, with close to 5,000 riders raising over $19 million. www.conquercancer.ca 1. The Dolce riding team members Sergio Sosa (left) and Fernando Zerillo (right) are proud to support this year’s Ride to Conquer Cancer 2. Nearly 5,000 participants gathered for the two-day, 200-kilometre ride 3. Riders collectively raised over $19 million for the annual charity fundraiser

SPONSORS Sam Mizrahi Mary Strazzeri

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SANSAR MASQUERADE BALL 2015 — VAUGHAN

With over 300 guests in attendance and CP24’s Pooja Handa as the event’s hostess, SANSAR’s first-ever Masquerade Ball raised over $45,000 in proceeds to support cardiovascular health among South Asians. The ball, which recently took place at Bellvue Manor in Vaughan, had guests entertained all night with RS.Divas Entertainment and musicians playing ethnic drums and other instruments. www.sansar.org

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1. The Kothari family wit with SANSAR’s board of directors 2. An eclectic cast of enterta entertainers ainers bring bri excitement to the masq masquerade ball 3. Protibha Gupta, Bal S Sekand and Anup Kaushal 4. A perf performer fires up the crowd

www.mycitylife.ca

PHOTOS BY MARTIN DEMONTMORENCY AND SHERIAR HIRJIKAKA

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AN IDYLLIC SETTING Just a short drive north of the city, XXI Chophouse serves firstrate meals in the peaceful village of Kleinburg, one of the GTA’s most beautiful and coveted communities.

EXTENSIVE WINE AND SCOTCH SELECTION An ever-evolving wine program features vintages from Canada, France, Chile, the U.S. and beyond. A sizeable Scotch Wall boasts a rich selection of single malts, fine cognacs and specialty liqueurs.

PREMIUM AGED BEEF An in-house dry-aging locker ensures precise aging times of 35 to 50 days of the highestquality cuts of beef sourced from top purveyors, including Paradise Farms, the American Angus Hall of Fame’s Best Breeder of Aberdeen Angus in North America.

Located in The Doctor’s House in the village of Kleinburg, XXI Chophouse blends the area’s historical setting with contemporary design to deliver a premier steakhouse experience north of the city.

www.mycitylife.ca

www.XXIchophouse.com info@XXIchophouse.com 905 893 CHOP (2467) www.thedoctorshouse.ca 21 Nashville Road, The Doctor’s House Kleinburg, Ont.

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