Robert Simmonds Fall 2014

A C H R O N I C L E H E R A L D C U STO M P U B L I C AT I O N

The Great Investment Fredericton Community Foundation making a difference

Looks Pay Off Business attire can help you get ahead at work

Start Me Up Fredericton’s outstanding entrepreneurial ecosystem

It’s France in North America Joie de vivre in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon

ISSUE 14

FALL 2014

MADE WITH PRIDE IN CANADA.

coppley.com

MICHAELKORS.COM

CONTENTS 006 WELCOME 008 UPCOMING EVENTS Check out our exciting lineup of in-store events!

010 FALL 2014 & WINTER 2015 FEATURE BRANDS Apparel, shoe and accessory collections for men and women available at Robert Simmonds 012 SERVICES One-stop shopping for the well-dressed man and woman

STYLE 014 LOOKBOOK 018 THE SHIRT FORMALLY KNOWN AS PRINTS Print shirts are in for men and they can be worn with anything, including a suit from Robert Simmonds 022 LOOKS PAY OFF Business attire can help you get ahead at work

4 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

024 LADIES FASHION Leather dominates fall/winter fashion scene 030 THE SHOE MUST GO ON When buying shoes, seek comfort first, then go for fashion 033 THE TIMELESS WATCH For centuries, watches have been making the man

LOCAL

FOOD & DRINK 040 OF GLASS AND WHISKY Maximizing the whisky experience 041 COOL FOOD Cool-weather cooking’s cool 042 GOOD EATS Downtown Fredericton has so many great places to eat, it can be hard to choose

PROFILE

034 START ME UP Fredericton’s visionary spirit one reason for city’s outstanding entrepreneurial ecosystem

044 THE GREAT INVESTMENT Fredericton Community Foundation making a difference

CULTURE

TRAVEL

036 SILVER WAVE The spotlight’s on NB & Indie filmmakers worldwide at Silver Wave

045 IT’S FRANCE IN NORTH AMERICA Experience “joie de vivre” in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon

038 MUST-READ BOOKS Don’t pass up on these one-sitting reads

AUTO 048 ZERO COMPROMISE BMW i8 boasts beautiful design, eye-popping power, superb fuel economy

PHOTO: CURAPHOTOGRAPHY / 123RF

PHOTO: NEJRON / 123RF

WELCOME For many, fall is the best time of year to get out and explore our beautiful province. It’s also a time to appreciate the work of Mother Nature as she sheds the sun’s light earlier, cools the evening air for tranquil sleeps, and turns our landscape into splendid hues as her trees begin the process of shedding leaves for the promise of future growth.

Fall is also a time of growth in the world of fashion as it’s when we expand our wardrobes with the latest cool-weather styles, while shedding the clothes that kept us comfortable and in vogue through summer.

Here at Robert Simmonds, we welcome fall by stocking our shelves and covering our hangers with the latest offerings from new and classic brands created by the foremost clothiers from here in Canada and around the world.

And once again, we are proud to offer our loyal customers another edition of Robert Simmonds Magazine, where we showcase not only the latest fashion trends, along with helpful clothing tips and advice, but we also offer a glimpse of some of the great things happening in and around our city.

Check out our story on page 14, ‘The Greatest Investment,’ and read about how the Fredericton Community Foundation is making a real difference, while our ‘Start Me Up’ story on page 32 tells how our city’s visionary spirit has made possible an outstanding entrepreneurial ecosystem.

We again offer palate-pleasing reads on wine, whisky and food and we also travel to the wonderful French overseas collectivity of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. Find some ‘Must-Read Books’ on page 36 and drive over to page 48 for a spin in the fast, futuristic BMW i8.

We hope you enjoy this, the 14th edition of Robert Simmonds Magazine and, as always, we thank you for continuing to let us help dress you in the world’s best fashions.

See you soon!

Paul

HUGO BOSS CANADA INC. Phone +1 905 739 2677 www.hugoboss.com

EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS Check out our exciting lineup of in-store events

MADE-TO-MEASURE EVENT

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION NIGHT

Wednesday, October 1 – Wednesday, October 8, 2014 Experience how a custom fit can enhance your look at the Coppley and Samuelsohn Made-toMeasure event. Our specialists will assist you with the fabric selections and fit specifications, so you will fall in love with a garment that is perfectly suited for you.

Celebrates the cocktail hour Thursday, November 6, 2014, 5-7 p.m.

The season of Galas, Award Ceremonies and Tasting Events is upon us. Celebrate all that is elegant about the cocktail hour with Jewelry from Karen McClintock’s latest collection, Occasion dresses from Adrianna Papell and men’s tailored goods from Canali, Hugo Boss, Coppley and Samuelsohn.

CANADA GOOSE NIGHT Friday, October 17, 2014 See the latest silhouettes and colours in Canada Goose along with the warmest boot styles from UGG, Sorel, Michael Kors, Sam Edelman, Cole Haan, Stuart Weitzman and more.

*Cocktails, small plates, mini fashion show, gift with purchase, complimentary style consults

BLACK FRIDAY Friday, November 28, 2014 See in store or online for details

Have your goose one way or another — enjoy Grey Goose cocktails and chat with our Grey Goose representative about the latest trends in mixology. *Door prizes, appetizers, complimentary style consults

Robert Simmonds Magazine Editor-in-Chief: Paul Simmonds Published by: Herald Custom Media Chairman and Publisher: Sarah Dennis President and CEO: Mark Lever Director, Herald Custom Media: Jeff Nearing Editor: Todd Gillis Project Manager: Billy Chambers Graphic Designer: Julia Webb Director, Sales: Nancy Cook Account Executives: Wanda H. Priddle, Brian Gardner Lookbook: Art Direction: The Vital Group Stylist: Gregory Lalonde Photography: David Wile

PHOTO: ALESSANDRO ZOCCHI / 123RF

8 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

Photographers: Adrien Veczan, 123rf.com, Joy Cummings, Eton, Allen Edmonds, Ted Pritchard, Scott Munn, Jean-Christophe L’Espagnol Max’Images, BMW North. America 2014

Contributors: Gary Wollenhaupt, Heather Laura Clarke, Diane Merlevede, Tom Mason, Kelly Taylor, Carol Dobson, David Pitt, Graham MacKenny, Mark DeWolf, Todd Gillis © The Chronicle Herald 2014 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission from the publisher.

The Chronicle Herald 2717 Joseph Howe Drive PO Box 610, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2T2 902-426-2811 TheChronicleHerald.ca Printed by: Dollco Printing www.dollco.com Cover Image: Adrien Veczan

DINE!

STAY!

PLAY!

VE DOW NT E LO O TH

W

BR IN

N

G

shop!

TO

BR

I

NG

WN

OWN

WNT #BRINGITDO THE

W L OV E D O

N

WWW.DOWNTOWNFREDERICTON.CA @DOWNTOWNFRED DOWNTOWN FREDERICTON

BRANDS

FALL 2014 & WINTER 2015

FEATURE BRANDS Apparel, Shoe and Accessory Collections for Men and Women Available at Robert Simmonds Clothing

Adrianna Papell Alberto Alice+Olivia Allen Edmonds Alternative Apparel Andrew Marc Armani Jeans Axes Simo Bella Luxx Boot Rescue Branta Brave Leather Brax Bugatchi Bugatti Calvin Klein Canada Goose Canali Chaser LA Cinzia Rocca Circle of Gentlemen Citizens of Humanity Codello Scarves Cole Haan Coppley Davek Dion Donald J. Pliner Eileen Fisher Eton Gillian Julius Hue Hugo Boss Hunter James Perse John Varvatos Judith & Charles Karen McClintock Klauss Boehler

Lacoste Lafayette 148 Le Salon Des Femmes Love Quotes Luisa Cerano Mackage Marcoliani Maui Jim’s Mavi Michael Kors Nougat London Paige Peter Millar Rainy Sunday Rebecca Minkoff Rebecca Taylor Robert Graham Robert Talbott Saint James Sam Edleman Samuelsohn Sanyo Sarah Pacini Saxx Smythe Sorel Spanx Stenstroms Stuart Weitzman Suzi Roher Tateossian Tea Forte Theory Tokens & Icons Tommy Bahama Tsovet Tumi Uggs Australia We are owls White+Warren

PHOTO: KONRAD BAK / 123RF

10 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

Office Suite Rentals In Prime Downtown Location www.taymax.ca 2PUN :[YLL[ -YLKLYPJ[VU 5 ) , ) , P c F

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 11

SERVICES

SERVICES We offer one-stop shopping for the well-dressed man and woman

R

obert Simmonds Clothing is noted as the place to shop in downtown Fredericton for the latest styles in high-end fashion.

As a local independent retailer, our mission is to provide an “Excellent Experience, Every time with Engaged Employees.” We pride ourselves on excellent customer service and fashion knowledge. We offer one-stop shopping for the well-dressed man and woman.

STORE INFORMATION Robert Simmonds Clothing 400 King Street Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 1E3 Corner of King and York under the Black Canopy

Store Hours Monday – Wednesday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Thursday – Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 506-455-2500 Fax: 506-455-4550 Email: info@robertsimmonds.com www.robertsimmonds.com

facebook.com/Robertsimmondsclothing

@robert_simmonds

STAY IN TOUCH We want to let you know about special events, sales and promotions. Whether it is by mail, email, Facebook, or telephone, make sure your contact information is updated in our computer system. See a sales associate next time you are in or email info@robertsimmonds.com and we will get you connected.

TAILORING Your purchase will be custom tailored to suit you in a timely manner by our Master Tailor, Tony Dableh. Tony can adjust your older items so that they can be worn and enjoyed anew.

His work is done to perfection every time.

12 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

FASHION EMERGENCY

LEGAL ATTIRE

Have a last minute interview, airport lost your luggage, spilled coffee on your tie before your big meeting, or found a run in your hosiery?

We have all been there. Call us and we will help.

We can deliver to your office or book an appointment. No need to stress.

Prefer by appointment. We are an agent for a legal wear company. You will be measured by qualified Robert Simmonds staff. Your legal garments will be custom made for you. There is a six- week turnaround time. Please call our store at 506-455-2500 or email info@robertsimmonds.com to schedule an appointment.

WARDROBE CONSULTATION This service, for both men and women, is tailored to your particular needs and budget and is offered at no additional cost. Our sales associates will assist you with your wardrobe planning, closet purging and offer suggestions for any occasion. We help you make style decisions that you won’t regret and that you’ll enjoy for years to come. For an appointment for a private session, please call 506-455-2500 or email us at info@robertsimmonds.com

TUX RENTALS

OUR RETURN POLICY

MEN’S MADE-TO-MEASURE

We offer a complete refund or exchange within 10 days of purchase on all regular priced merchandise in original condition, with proof of purchase. Please review your sales slip for details. All exchanges are final sale. Merchandise on sale is not refundable or exchangeable.

The following lists of items are not refundable or exchangeable for hygienic reasons: beauty products, jewelry, hats, hosiery, sunglasses, watches, or undergarments. Canada Goose is also final sale.

For men who find off-the-rack garments a difficult fit or who enjoy expressing their individual style by selecting exclusive patterns and fabrics, made-to-measure suits, blazers, trousers, and dress shirts may well be the answer. Appointments preferred.

We are an agent for tuxedo rentals from Freeman Formalwear who provide a large selection of tuxedos. Our tuxedo prices are the same as every agent across Canada, but we provide the services you’ve come to expect.

Our in-house tailor can make any last minute alterations to your rental. Please call our menswear department to book appointments or email us at info@robertsimmonds.com

FUR STORAGE Keep your fur looking new by storing it in Robert Simmonds Clothing fur vault. The vault is a specially-designed environment with carefully controlled temperature and humidity.

GIFT CARDS The perfect gift is the one that always fits.

Robert Simmonds Clothing gift cards can be purchased in any denomination and they never expire.

GIFT WRAPPING If you are buying for any special occasion, Robert Simmonds Clothing offers gift wrapping.

Just mention it is a gift and we will be happy to wrap it for you.

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES This is Robert Simmonds Clothing’s 14th issue.

We would like to thank all of our advertisers for contributing to the growth of Robert Simmonds Magazine. If you would like to advertise in our magazine, please contact Robyn Stevenson at 506-455-2500 or robyn@robertsimmonds.com Named “Best boutique for head-to-toe style for any season, budget, or person” by magazine.

Circle of Gentlemen

Available at Rober t Simmonds

400 King Street, Fredericton Te l . 5 0 6 4 5 5 2 5 0 0

LOOKBOOK

LOOKS BY

Available at Robert Simmonds

14 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

LOOKS BY

LOOKBOOK

Available at Robert Simmonds

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 15

LOOKBOOK

LOOKS BY Available at Robert Simmonds

16 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

ROBERT SIMMONDS C

L

O

T

H

I

N

G

'RZQWRZQ )UHGHULFWRQ

robertsimmonds.com

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 17

STYLE

THE SHIRT FORMALLY KNOWN AS PRINTS Print shirts are in for men and they can be worn with anything, including a suit from Robert Simmonds

By Gary Wollenhaupt PHOTOS: COURTESY ETON

ixing and matching patterns might seem like advanced calculus.

After all, we all learned the rules as youngsters: don’t mix stripes and checks, don’t wear a patterned shirt and patterned pants, and don’t forget to carry ‘the one.’

But those old rules are made to be broken.

From micro polka dots to, well, pretty much anything you can imagine, print shirts are in for men and they can be worn with anything, including a suit from Robert Simmonds.

Thankfully, a sense of personal style is more welcomed than it used to be, even in the stuffiest of offices. There’s recognition of individuality and creativity that’s reflected in bold, confident choices.

18 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

rk an wo c t r i h ts “A prin sual setting in a ca ess setting, the usin or a b down d n a p g on gu movin m dependin d.” u e spectr tion you ne ua the sit

To give yourself a little comfort, look for style icons that embody what you want to present.

Of course, you won’t dress for the office like Robert Downey Jr. dresses for the red carpet.

But he has a knack for blending a printed shirt with a formal suit that’s both daring and safe for work.

A print shirt can work in a casual setting or a business setting, moving up and down the spectrum depending on the situation you need.

A gingham or plaid dress shirt adds oomph to your wardrobe while creating a new classic look.

Get creative and play with some patterns.

The old rules wouldn’t have accepted a plaid dress shirt. Now few would pay it any attention, except in admiration.

STYLE

When you’re ready to take the plunge into prints, try these combinations and come up with your own. Before you go big, start with a simple pin dot print to build your confidence in your own sense of style. a gingham shirt with a pinstripe suit Pair to add some levity. a stodgy grey suit come to life with a Make colourful shirt, pinstripes, checks, florals, you name it. A colourful accent will enliven the dull corporate palette. a traditional navy suit a little less Make so with micro-stripes in a complementary shade of blue, accented with a patterned tie.

20 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

a navy or grey suit, look for prints in With combinations of blue, white, and maroon.

The colours are safe and the prints will set you apart from the crowd. Then complement that combo with a tie that either coordinates with the suit or brings out the tone of the shirt. fall and winter, reflect the season with During richer, muted tones. When the sun returns and the temperature rises, turn up the heat on your shirt selection, too. Live a little and pull out the lime green, pink, or lavender gingham to brighten your days.

mixing stripes with stripes or checks When with checks, create a difference in amplitude.

A pinstriped shirt works better with a chalkstriped suit than with a pinstriped suit. Big checks work better with small checks.

Of course, some traditions are worth keeping, or at least updating. For instance, when mixing patterns among a suit, shirt and tie, one of the elements should be solid or plain. But that’s more of a guideline than a rule. You may be able to pull off a striped suit, a polka dot tie and a striped shirt. The key is to wear it with confidence. Let your spirit be at least as bold as your shirt.

w w w. s te n s t ro m s. co m

STYLE

LOOKS PAY OFF Business attire can help you get ahead at work

By Gary Wollenhaupt PHOTO: NYUL / 123RF

ot only do you have to excel at your job, you have to look good doing it.

Despite the lingering specter of business casual dress, savvy business people know that a traditional suit is still key for getting ahead. A recent survey confirms that instinct.

Dress for success

Ninety-three per cent of managers polled said a person’s style of dress at work influences his or her chances of earning a promotion; one-third 22 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

t age abou d a ld o e “Th sition or the po f g in s s e e dr you aspir to which s true.” still hold O MEYER

DIANE D

PHOTO: WAVEBREAK MEDIA LTD. / 123RF

Climb bin ng the e corpo ora ate la adder takes th he riight tools

said on-the-job attire “significantly” affects an employee’s advancement prospects. Only seven per cent said dress had no influence at all.

The survey was developed by Office Team, a leading staffing service specializing in the placement of highly-skilled administrative professionals. It was conducted by an independent research firm and includes responses from 150 senior executives at 1,000 large North American companies.

“The old adage about dressing for the position to which you aspire still holds true,” said Diane Do Meyer, executive director of Office Team.

“A polished appearance lends credibility and may help employers envision the staff member in a role with greater responsibility.

“Attire is not the only thing workers are judged on, but it is part of the equation. While a proper wardrobe alone won’t earn you a promotion, dressing inappropriately could cost you one.”

STYLE

PHOTO: PATRICK CHAI / 123RF

Clothes questions

Office Team advises professionals seeking advancement to ask themselves the following questions when selecting work attire:

Would managers at my company wear this?

If the answer is “no,” it’s probably not a wise choice for you, either.

Is it a distraction? Unless you’re in the

fashion, entertainment or another creative industry, flamboyant or overly trendy attire can detract from your credibility.

Does it give me confidence? When you’re

dressed sharply, you’ll be more self-assured.

Look for attire that is flattering and makes you feel good about yourself.

Is it clean and in good condition? Even in

casual work environments, avoid clothes that are torn, wrinkled or messy. Sloppy attire may prompt your manager to question your attention to detail.

Is it comfortable? Clothing that fits well

and allows you to move freely is especially important when you’re interviewing for a job.

Avoid wearing a new suit when meeting with potential employers. You want to look good, but you don’t want to be distracted by clothes you’re not used to.

The Men’s Apparel Alliance, a group of clothing manufacturers and retailers says male executives should almost always wear a dress

shirt, necktie, sport jacket or blazer and dresscasual business trousers to work.

A classic suit is always appropriate, no matter how the rest of the office occupants dress. Even the most casually attired employees should don business trousers, business shirts and leather shoes when necessary.

Wearing a suit to the office, even if the dress code at your workplace is casual, may boost your professional image, according to a recent survey from TheLadders.com, a job site that lists executive-level openings.

Respondents included about 2,000 of the site’s members, with incomes of $75,000 or more. Around 70 per cent of the respondents said employees dressed in suits are perceived to be more senior level, while 60 per cent said these folks are taken more seriously.

Casual backlash

In today’s economy, it’s clearly out of style to be cavalier about being employed. Even if you try to atone for your crimes of fashion by wearing a herringbone jacket, you may be seen as arrogant if you wear jeans and tennis shoes in a “white collar” environment.

“The trend of casualization has gone too far,” said James Amen, president of the Men’s Apparel Alliance, in a released statement. “CEOs who were originally pressured by their management to institute a casual dress policy to attract new employees and retain existing ones are now

trying to figure out how to repeal this so-called ‘perk’ in order to increase professionalism and productivity.”

Even with years of business casual under our collective belts, it’s disconcerting to walk into a meeting not knowing what the dress code is. It’s no problem when you’re the only one in a suit.

No one would question that you dressed professionally for a meeting. But the reverse can be nerve-wracking if you’re the only one in a golf shirt and khakis. You doubt others’ perceptions of you: Do they know how good I am at what I do? Will they take my recommendations seriously? A suit pre-empts all those questions and puts you in the position of authority.

Traditional business dress is becoming more and more common, especially in the extrovert professions that deal with the public. Clients and customers want to do business with someone who presents a smart, polished appearance that inspires confidence. They want to be able to tell the attorney from the intern, the CFO from the junior accountant.

If you’ve been wearing the casual uniform for the last few years, this year’s classic styles represent an opportune time to update your business wardrobe. It’s an investment in your performance and your future that will pay dividends for years. The best counsel for staying ahead in the corporate world: ask your clothier for advice. You want to make sure the statement you make is the right one to put your career on the right path.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 23

STYLE

LADIES FASHION Leather dominates fall/winter fashion scene

By Heather Laura Clarke PHOTOS: ADRIEN VECZAN

eather has been creeping up on us for the last three seasons, and it’s officially a major staple of fall wardrobes.

Robert Simmonds co-owner, Linda Mayhew, says customers can’t get enough of the butterysoft texture.

“Leather pants and jackets are always strong, but now we’re seeing leather dresses, leather skirts, leather tops — and leather accents and embellishments on everything from blouses to leggings,” says Mayhew. “It’s everywhere!”

Hugo Boss Black, Mackage, Judith & Charles, Hue, Theory, and Smythe are all leather-crazy this season. Colour-coated leather is making a big splash, too. Brands like Michael by Michael Kors, Theory, HUE, Paige Premium Denim, Luisa Cerano, and Alice & Olivia often use faux leather — sometimes called vegan leather — in their collections, which is popular with fashionistas who are passionate about the humane treatment of animals.

Armani Jeans Collection + Handbags, Sam 24 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

le of peop t lo a seeing -low with “We’re ng e high combin hey’re doing lo , so t est or layering ith a shorter v .” it tunics w layered over r sweate ON

EVENS

ST ROBYN

Edelman, and UGG are fans of eco leather, which is made from animal hides but manufactured to have less of an impact on the environment. Eco leather is made using natural dyes, biodegradable wetting agents for soaking the leather, and non-synthetic tannage systems.

Quilted leather handbags have been popular for several seasons, and now the quilted look is coming to clothing and footwear, too — like Mackage’s Rosa bomber jacket, Cole Haan’s Raquel bootie, and the Hallmark flat from Stuart Weitzman.

Leggings continue to be strong this season — right up there with skinny denim — and store manager Robyn Stevenson says leather leggings are an inexpensive way to get the look of leather pants, without the steeper price tag.

“You can get that leather look with leggings that run $45-$65, rather than buying leather pants that start at $300,” says Stevenson.

Ponte leggings are made from a heavier fabric that neatly conceals imperfections, and Steven-

WWW.SARAHPACINI.COM

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 25

STYLE

son says many women love their slimming fit.

They range in price from about $45-$55 for a pair

by Hue, up to $250 for a pair by Paige Denim.

“You can also get ponte riding pants or skinny pants, and Paige Denim does a five-pocket ponte pant that looks just like a pair of jeans. They look great with tall boots, or short booties,” says Stevenson. “We have women in their 20s who love ponte, and women in their 50s and 60s who love it. It really crosses all ages and styles.”

Plaid continues to be strong for fall/winter, particularly as embellishments on skirts, dresses and tops. The high-low trend is back in full force, where hemlines are higher in the front than in the back, or short pieces are worn over long pieces.

“I like high-low because it works for so many different body types and age groups,” says Stevenson. “We’re seeing a lot of people combine high-low with layering, so they’re doing long tunics with a shorter vest or sweater layered over it. Bella Luxx, Theory, Eileen Fisher, Sarah Pacini have some great pieces for high-low.”

Leather backpacks were huge in the 1990s, and they’re making a comeback two decades later — except this time, they’re equipped with pockets for your smartphone and laptop.

Backpacks by Hunter, Tumi, and Mackage have distinctive hardware to give them an edge.

Athletic styling — sometimes called Fashion Fitness — will be continuing into 2015, as we see dress pants with tracksuit bottoms, leatherembossed or calf hair sneakers and zippers galore. Canada Goose and Michael Kors Shoes are leading the charge, with pieces that are effortlessly comfortable and stylish. Many of Canada Goose’s jackets are slimmer and sexier than years past, with different pockets and interesting hardware.

Footwear has been fairly understated for the last four to five years, but Stevenson says she’s happy to be stocking fun, sparkly shoes this season. You’ll also see lots of glitter in handbags and belts. Stuart Weitzman has a beautiful, glittery low pump, and simple loafers are glitzed up with graphite chains or ornaments, while a number of UGG boots are adorned with a Swarovski crystal button.

There’s something about fall that brings out the desire for a new pair of boots, and Stevenson says there’s already a clear winner this season — booties.

“Ankle buckle boots are the new flats for fall,” declares Stevenson. “They can be worn with skirts of all lengths, leggings, boyfriend jeans, skinnies, anything.”

She suspects society’s collective love of boots is partially responsible for the decline in classic suits and dress pants — everyone just wants to show off their cute boots!

26 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 27

STYLE

As trendsetters continue to pick up pieces for the season, Mayhew says many of them rely on Robert Simmonds’ Facebook page for updates and trend tips, as well as to find out which items are nearly gone.

“If we have one size left of an item, we try to post a photo, and it’s often scooped up immediately,” says Mayhew. “I think customers find it kind of exciting to know they’ve nabbed the last item.”

To keep tabs on the season’s hottest fashions, follow Robert Simmonds Clothing on Facebook: www.facebook.com/robertsimmondsclothing 28 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

Top 10 fashionn must-ha aves for fa all/winter 1. All things leather (pants, skirts, blouses, dresses, leggings, jackets and even quilted leather jackets, booties and flats)

6. Plaid

2. Colour-coated leather accents and embellishments

8. Footwear that sparkles

3. Getting the high-low look in layers 4. Bonded lace tops and leggings 5. Animal print

7. Athletic styling (Fitness Fashion) with plenty of zippers 9. Ankle booties 10. Chic leather backpacks

© 2 0 14 E I L E E N F I S H E R I N C .

400 King Street, Fredericton, NB www.robertsimmonds.com

Fall/winte er fashion tips Blazers aren’t just for business meetings. There are so many silhou ettes — a long riding jacket, a cropped blazer, a jacket with bracelet sleeve, a tuxedo-style jacket — and they’re a simple way to dress up a pair of jeans.

The idea of a business suit is fading fast, as more women prefer to pair dresses and jackets for a mix-and-match look. are an inexpensive accessory to add colour, volume, texture Scarves and style to an outfit. You can also use a scarf to cover exposed skin if you feel a necklace is too revealing.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 29

STYLE

THE SHOE MUST GO ON When buying shoes, seek comfort first, then go for fashion

By Kelly Taylor

f the shoemaker’s son goes barefoot, maybe the kid knows a thing or two about the shoemaker’s work.

Which is to say the No. 1 consideration in any shoe — comfort — is also what can make a good shoe so hard to shop for. You can have the flashiest style in the hottest colour, but it will stay in your closet if it makes your feet scream out in agony.

The foot is an incredibly complex appendage, with 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 ligaments, tendons and muscles. It comes with high arches and low arches, high insteps and low insteps, wide balls and narrow balls.

30 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

“The best way to know if your choice of shoe is working with what you’re wearing, is if you’re comfortable,” said Erin Grafenauer, inside sales co-ordinator at shoe giant Allen Edmonds.

That comfort isn’t just with how it pairs, Grafenauer said, although that’s an important consideration, too. At Allen Edmonds, shoemakers have two lace styles and a dozen different lasts — mechanical representations of feet used to form shoes — to help customers get the perfect fit.

“We have several models that are better for a long, narrow foot or for a wider foot. We make

recommendations for the lasts based on the look and feel of the shoe the customer would like to have,” she said.

The bale cut uses a V-shaped lace opening that works well with lower insteps, she said.

“It helps snug up the fit for better support.

The blucher cut is a more rectangular opening.

“This cut is optimal if you have a high instep or high-arched foot. The lacing is open all the way down, allowing more room to slide your foot in and out more easily.”

Allen Edmonds’ cork bed — between the insole and outsole — is an important consideration for ensuring a custom fit, she said.

©2014 Allen Edmonds Corporation.

A T I M E L E SS CLASSIC YOU ’L L SAVO R C A R LY L E

PHOTOS: ALLEN EDMONDS

“The besst way to o know w if your choic ce off shoe e is work kin ng witth whatt you’re e wearin ng, iss iff you’’re e co omforrta able e.””

ERIN GR RAFE ENA AUER R

#BASEUNDERGROUND ROBERT SIMMONDS / 31

STYLE Once you know which shoe works for you, it’s time to talk fashion, and here’s where it can get fun.

Colours are all the rage, Grafenauer said, from walnut brown to black to more adventuresome choices as bourbon, red, navy and olive.

“Black is still a solid go-to for dress, but trends are more toned down and office casual,” she said.

“Specifically, walnut is great with every colour except black; it’s too great a contrast. But we did come

out with a new brown last season called bourbon that is a great match for every colour out there, black included.”

Creativity in contrasts is also a relatively new trend. Grafenauer pointed to Allen Edmonds’ Neumok which, in navy and brown, are two of the company’s best-sellers. As a custom shoe, the Neumok can also be had with contrasting eyestays, tongue, vamp, foxing and stitching for a truly customized look.

Accessories will always complete the look. Pairing shoes with clothing isn’t difficult, but an eye for detail can make the entire combination pop.

“The best accessory to complement your shoes is a great matching belt,” Grafenauer said. “If you do not have an exact match, we recommend to stay within a shade or two of the shoe itself.”

Then, have fun with ties, socks, pocket squares and cufflinks. Look

for a tie that, obviously, complements your shirt and jacket, but add to that consideration a hint of the shoe colour.

“The best way to know you’re complementing and not clashing is to tie colours together,” she said.

“If you have a walnut shoe and belt, look for a tie with a hint of the walnut or more tan colour in the design.”

Allen Edmonds shoes, manufactured in North America, are available at Robert Simmonds.

Allen Edmonds’ Neumok Collection

32 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

STYLE

THE TIMELESS WATCH For centuries, watches have been making the man

By Carol Dobson

ot so long ago, a good watch was a symbol of major rites of passage in a person’s life. When you were six or seven, that first watch was a sign that you were growing up. In certain professions, such as nursing, a good, reliable watch with a second hand was a requirement for daily work. Then, later, as a person’s working life came to an end, a gold watch was a reward for a job well done.

Now, with the advent of smart phones, watches are more prized as a fashion statement than as an indicator of minutes and hours. With today’s technology, having different watches to suit different outfits is economically possible.

A visit to any store that sells watches will give you options, from a classic, every-day watch that can be worn with a business suit or a pair of jeans and will never go out of style, to a high-tech chronometer, or to a more formal watch that can easily be described as a ‘tuxedo

PHOTO: WINDU / 123RF

PHOTO: SINISA BOTAS / 123RF

for the wrist.’

Plus, watches can be found in so many different materials, from gold and silver, to gun metal, to ceramic, to plastic, and can be as traditional or whimsical (think cult watches from Hollywood classics) as your personality will allow.

A quality name-brand watch from the stars of the watch world is jewelry’s equivalent of owning a Porsche, Jaguar or Ferrari. They have a timelessness to their style, reliability that can be enjoyed in the present, and can turn into an heirloom that can be passed along to future generations.

And for style, there’s just something about an old-fashioned pocket watch on a chain, tucked into a vest pocket to add sophistication to your wardrobe. If it’s old enough that it has to be wound, then that’s just an extra little bit of added cachet.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 33

LOCAL

START ME UP Fredericton’s visionary spirit one reason for city’s outstanding entrepreneurial ecosystem

By Tom Mason

PHOTO: ANDRIY POPOV / 123RF

ark it down in the why-didn’t-Ithink-of-that column. A deceptively simple idea that uses smartphone technology to pay for parking meters and allows retailers to tap into the same app for the benefit of their customers is changing the way people park in downtown Fredericton.

HotSpot Parking is the brainchild of Phil Curley, a University of New Brunswick student who pioneered the technology and is now marketing it to other cities across Canada and beyond. He’s projecting $600,000 in sales this year.

Curley is hardly alone. The startup scene in Fredericton has been burgeoning in recent years, making the city a centre for technology in the region. It’s an impressive list. A small company called Resson Aerospace has been using futuristic-sounding technologies such as swarm robotic drones and large-scale, cloudbased data processing to develop an aerial surveillance system that will help farmers manage their operations.

Radian 6, now one of the stars of the local tech scene, emerged a few years ago to become a pioneering social media monitoring company.

34 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

And new on the scene, Hyton Innovation was founded by two young Fredericton entrepreneurs who have created a new technology that will provide wastewater treatment solutions for commercial clients.

Nathan Armstrong is Hyton’s CEO. He developed the product with his industrial engineer brother Greg, along with support from the University of New Brunswick and the local startup community. He credits the city’s startup milieu for making the collaboration work. “It would be almost impossible to do what we do if we weren’t in Fredericton,” he says. “There are some extreme collaborations happening here and a lot of support.”

“Maybe it’s something in Fredericton’s DNA, something that causes the city’s business community to want to nurture entrepreneurship in a way that doesn’t happen in other places,” says Krista Ross, CEO of the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce. “If a young, smart university student has a great idea for a startup here in Fredericton the opportunity for growth is exponential. There are so many opportunities to collaborate, so many agencies and organiza-

tions that are in place to help young entrepreneurs get their ideas off the ground.”

Planet Hatch is one of those organizations — an entrepreneurial hub centre that’s the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada. Planet Hatch operates ACelR8, a program to provide earlystage startup companies with access to coaching, mentoring, funding and working space to allow them to commercialize their ideas. Currently, the organization has 11 startup companies working out of their business incubator — each one of them gaining energy and experience from the others, according to Planet Hatch executive director, Sally Ng. “Instead of each company working in a basement, they get to work every day with 10 other like-minded companies,” she says.

Ng says that her organization works well in part because Fredericton is an entrepreneurial-friendly place. “The community at large in Fredericton really cares about entrepreneurs.

That’s vital to a lot of these companies. If an enterprise is going to be a success, the community really needs to own it.”

“We’ve gotten into this mindset in Atlantic

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

G

SALLY N

Canada that sees entrepreneurship as a dirty word,” says Rivers Corbett, a self-described “startup geek” who has started a number of companies over the last two decades including his latest — Relish Gourmet Burgers — that now has locations in three Atlantic Provinces. Corbett is a founding board member of Startup Canada, a group that supports startups across the country. As further evidence of Fredericton’s commitment to the startup community, Corbett serves as Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of New Brunswick. “Being an entrepreneur can be a lonely business,” he says. Even though entrepreneurs are that basis for economic growth, they don’t get a whole lot of respect most of the time.”

Fredericton seems to be bucking that trend.

Krista Ross says the city can trace its tech startup renaissance back to a 2004 initiative that first put it on the tech world’s radar. That year, Fredericton established Fred-eZone, a broadband Wi-Fi network that allowed free mobile broadband access virtually anywhere in the downtown core.

With Wi-Fi technology still relatively unknown in those days, Fred-eZone was the first Wi-Fi network of its kind in North America and a huge competitive advantage for tech startups in the city; a carrot to attract the high-tech companies that would make Fredericton the centre of the IT industry in New Brunswick.

It’s a visionary spirit that continues on a decade later, says Ross.

“Fredericton has an entrepreneurial ecosystem that is outstanding. It’s a combination of smart businesspeople, the presence of the university and the quality of our stakeholders who facilitate new startups. It’s really a perfect storm.”

three-2-one.com

rge in ity at la n u m out m “The co cares ab y ll a e r a lot of ton Frederic . That’s vital to ise is eneurs enterpr n a If . entrepr s nity mpanie commu o e c h e t s , s e s h t ce be a suc n it.” going to lly needs to ow rea

www.alberto-pants.com

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 35

CULTURE

SILVER WAVE The spotlight’s on NB & Indie filmmakers worldwide at Silver Wave

By Heather Laura Clarke

riters, producers and directors can spend years pouring themselves into a film — only to have the actors swoop in and command the spotlight for their contribution.

But that’s not the way things happen at the Silver Wave Film Festival, which is hosted by the New Brunswick Film Co-op.

Co-organizer Cat LeBlanc says filmmakers from all over the world love to submit their shorts to Silver Wave because of its commitment to respecting, supporting and promoting their efforts.

“It’s become a very popular event because it’s all about the filmmakers. We treat them like gold,” says LeBlanc. “With a lot of the bigger festivals, the focus is only on the celebrities that come out. But we always make a really big deal about our filmmakers — whether they’re from here in New Brunswick, or around the world — and they appreciate that.”

The grassroots event dates back to 2000, when the NB Film Co-op staff and board decided there needed to be a better way to showcase their work. At the time, the only other New Brunswick festival accepted only French films 36 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

PHOTO: KTSDESIGN / 123RF

primarily — forcing many New Brunswick filmmakers to submit and, if accepted, travel to other provinces to screen their projects in front of an audience and participate in panels and workshops.

The festival was originally called the Tidal Wave Film Festival, but changed its name to Silver Wave in 2005 after the upsetting tsunami disaster. LeBlanc says “Silver Wave” suits the festival perfectly because it fits with the history and romance of Hollywood’s silver screen.

The 14th annual Silver Wave Film Festival runs November 6-9 in Fredericton. Open to films in all languages, the festival focuses primarily on shorts, with just three to four slots for feature films. The festival has also included French, Iranian and Aboriginal screening showcases. LeBlanc says they’re very open to all kinds of films, as long as they have English subtitles.

“When you reflect back on our beginnings and consider the market here in Atlantic Canada, it really is terrific to see how we’ve grown to become an important cultural event in New Brunswick and the Atlantic region,” says Tony Merzetti, executive director of the

CULTURE

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

Top: Filmmaker John Mick ( from left), film enthusiast Andrew Warren, actress/filmmaker Leah Warren, and filmmaker Jillian Acreman celebrate at last year’s Silver Wave Film Festival.

PHOTO: KTSDESIGN / 123RF

New Brunswick Film Co-op.

During the four-day event, Silver Wave will screen more than 100 films across three locations; the Charlotte Street Arts Centre, University of New Brunswick’s Tilley Hall, and Le Centre communautaire Sainte-Anne. There’s a free youth program screening shorts created by young people throughout New Brunswick and beyond, and a special midnight screening of horror films that’s developed a cult following.

Over 20 awards will be presented at the highlight event, the Silver Wave Awards, and guests will get to channel their inner Hollywood star on the red carpet — posing in front of a stepand-repeat.

“It’s pretty jam-packed, and it all goes by in a wave — no pun intended,” says LeBlanc. “There’s a lot of excitement in the air.”

Friday’s industry summit will include workshops and panels with prominent and emerging producers, directors and writers. Silver Wave attracts many industry personnel from both the independent and commercial film community in Canada — and LeBlanc says it’s a great opportunity for the two worlds to network.

“A lot of times, people are so busy working

Bottom: Filmakers JeanPierre Desmarais ( from left) and William Beatty discuss the industry with two festival attendees at last year’s Silver Wave Film Festival.

that they don’t get a lot of chances to get together with other creatives and talk about new projects,” says LeBlanc. “This is a wonderful opportunity for them to come together and chat and perhaps form new partnerships.”

Actor Billy Campbell — best-known for appearing on The Killing and Dynasty, as well as opposite Jennifer Lopez in the film Enough — was a special guest one year at the Silver Wave Festival Film.

“He was in one of the films, so he came out to support it and he was wonderful about speaking at our events,” says LeBlanc. “We presented him with a Lifetime Membership to the New Brunswick Filmmakers’ Co-op and he was so nice about presenting awards and talking with everyone.”

One of Silver Wave’s other notable guests has been Joe Medchuck, who served as executive producer on Ghostbusters. He was presented with a special mask to commemorate his visit and he spoke at length with many aspiring producers, filmmakers and actors.

The festival also serves as a way to introduce aspiring filmmakers to industry professionals.

Volunteers of all ages travel from around the

Maritimes to take tickets, organize lines and shake hands with the people who could launch their film careers.

“It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the film community,” says LeBlanc.

She says it’s exciting to see the works of upand-coming talented filmmakers and wonder where their careers will take them. At last year’s festival, two hometown favourites — Gia Milani (writer/director) and Tony Whalen (producer) — presented their first feature film, All the Wrong Reasons. The film stars the late Cory Monteith — who played Finn Hudson on Glee.

“They worked so hard with their team for five long years to get it written, prepped, shot and edited, so it was a huge deal for them and all of us,” says LeBlanc. “It opened our festival and it did really well. There was such a big demand that we had to put on a second screening of it.”

“It was a proud moment for everybody.

‘Local people make good’ — and we all were there for it.”

For more information on the Silver Wave Film Festival — including show times, event information and to purchase festival passes — please visit www.swfilmfest.com ROBERT SIMMONDS / 37

CULTURE

MUST-READ BOOKS Don’t pass up on these one-sitting reads

By David Pitt PHOTO: NYUL / 123RF

couple of summers ago, the Big Thing in fiction was Daniel H. Wilson’s Robopocalypse, a novel about an artificial intelligence’s plot to wipe out mankind. Now here’s the sequel, Robogenesis (Doubleday), which is in every way a superior book. It’s better written (the first chapter alone is more frightening than the entirety of the previous book), with an even scarier story and nastier violence. The first book took a while to get moving, because Wilson had to spend some time convincing us that his idea (robots taking over the world!) wasn’t mind-bogglingly ridiculous; here he just jumps right in, which means the book is faster paced and more streamlined. And here’s a warning to take seriously: don’t even start reading the book unless you’re prepared to finish it in one sitting.

38 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

Here’s another one-sitting book: The Skin Collector (Grand Central),

by Jeffrey Deaver. A nutjob tattoo artist is murdering people by injecting poison into them while he creates beautifully complex artwork on their bodies. Quadriplegic criminalist Lincoln Rhyme has to find the killer before the bodies pile up any higher. But when Rhyme figures out the wacko is covering his tracks by using tricks he learned from studying Rhyme’s old cases, he wonders: how do you catch a killer who’s learned how not to get caught from the best criminalist in the business? Deaver’s trademark is right-angle, neck-wrenching plot twists, and this book is full of ’em.

Any John Wayne fans out there?

Scott Eyman’s new biography, John Wayne: The Life and Legend (Simon & Schuster), might change the way you think about the man who was pretty much the iconic big-screen tough guy. This is a book about two men: Marion “Duke” Morrison, the kid who parlayed a job on a movie lot into an acting job, and John Wayne, the movie star. In one way they were the same guy (Wayne was Morrison’s professional name) but in a lot of ways they were different people (the tough guy the world saw on the screen was a made-up persona, right down to his physical mannerisms).

Read the book, then watch one of Wayne’s classic movies — The Searchers, say, or Sands of Iwo Jima — and see if Wayne doesn’t suddenly seem like an entirely different man.

Pop quiz: what do the novels about James Bond and his Austrian counterpart, superspy Malko Linge, have in common? Oh, wait — you probably don’t know who Linge is. Gerard de Villiers, a French novelist, wrote a couple hundred books about him, but The Madmen of Benghazi (Black Lizard), with a nimble translation by William Rodarmor, is Linge’s first English-language appearance. His assignment: seduce the girlfriend of a man who wants to be the next king of Libya and find out what who’s trying to kill the man. The seduction goes exceedingly well (the sex scenes are so explicit you almost want to read the book with the lights out) and Linge winds up risking his own life to protect a stranger’s. The book’s got all the same stuff as your typical Bond novel — sex, violence, villainy — but it’s also got a gritty realism that the Bond novels often lacked.

Seriously, don’t miss this one.

True story: in the years immediately after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the CIA put together an elaborate covert operation to nab people who were selling American-made explosives technologies to enemy foreign nations. John Shiffman’s Operation Shakespeare (Simon & Schuster) has got everything you want in a story like this: despicable, slightly largerthan-life villains; an ingenious sting operation; heroes who assume false identities and put their lives on the line to protect their country. The book has already been optioned by Hollywood — the similarly-themed Argo and American Hustle did pretty well at the box office — but don’t wait for the movie.

Welcome to Coldbrook: top-secret scientific research facility, miniature self-contained community…oh, and ground zero of the zombie apocalypse. Tim Lebbon’s Coldbrook (Titan Books) is a brilliant mixture of horror and SF in which a bunch of researchers, trying to do one thing (create a bridge between this universe and another), wind up doing something entirely different (unleash the walking dead upon the planet Earth). Zombie novels are a dime a dozen these days and, let’s face it, most of them aren’t too good. But if you ignore this book, if you think “Aw hell, here’s another one” and leave it sitting on the shelf, you’ll be making a huge mistake.

If you’re a golfer — not a casual weekender, but a guy who’ll wade through a zombie apocalypse to get in a quick 18 holes — you probably know the name Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Considering Jones designed or rebuilt about 500 courses around the world, including several in Canada, if you’ve been golfing long enough, and if you’ve done a fair amount of traveling, you might have played on one of his. A Difficult Par (Gotham Books), by James R. Hansen, is a big, meaty biography of Jones, focusing mostly, of course, on his hugely influential — and occasionally controversial — contribution to the modern evolution of golf. This is the kind of book that, if you call yourself a golfer, you’re pretty much obligated to read.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 39

FOOD & DRINK

OF GLASS AND WHISKY Maximizing the whisky experience

By Graham MacKenney

PHOTO: HANNA SLAVINSKA / 123RF

n recent years, whisky has entered into a boom period of popularity and it’s not surprising that people look for ways to maximize their enjoyment of the whisky experience.

With such a diverse range of aromas and flavours, one common question I am often asked is: what kind of glass should I use to drink or taste whisky? Like so many questions based on preference, the answer is always: “It depends.”

If you are a whisky-on-the-rocks type of person, then I always recommend a glass that will allow you to fit bigger ice cubes, or even one big ice ball as this will melt slower, reducing the rate of dilution of the whisky (same goes if you are just looking to have ‘a drink’).

On the other hand, if you are looking to assess a whisky, to nose and taste it, discovering all of the subtle nuances and aromas, then you want to be sure to have a tulip-shaped nosing glass.

The shape of the glass is very important, as the goal is to focus all of the aromas to one small area. You will also want to leave the ice in the freezer and have a little non-chlorinated spring water on hand so you can add a few drops to help open up the whisky.

40 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

The Copita

The Neat Ultimate Spirits Glass

This is a time-honoured sherry glass that is widely used by whisky makers, blenders and connoisseurs alike. It is a stemmed glass allowing for ease of visual analysis, swirling and sipping.

According to the makers, the Neat Glass is designed to enhance the sensory experience by putting your nose closer to the spirit while the flared rim allows the volatile alcohol vapours to escape, leaving only the subtle aromas of the whisky itself. A relative newcomer to the world of whisky, the Neat Glass has been gaining popularity and is the official glass of many competitions, including the San Diego International Spirits Competition.

(www.scotchwhisky.com/english/tasting/how_to/ tasproc.htm).

The Glencairn This is popular the world over as a purposebuild Scottish crystal whisky glass used by the whisky industry, competitions and those who enjoy whisky. It has a nice squat base to hold onto without being too tall. The shape focuses all of the aromas up to the narrow rim. Winner of the Queen’s award in the UK, it was developed over 25 years with input from experts in the Scotch whisky industry. (www.glencairnwhiskyglass.com)

(www.theneatglass.com)

Spiegelau Premium Whisky Snifter A stemmed whisky glass that offers many of the same functional characteristics found in the glasses listed above, but for some reason appeals just a little more to my sense of elegance or reverence. That reverence can be just as important when sitting back with that special bottle you have been holding on to for just the right moment. Having the right glass can make a good experience great! (www.spiegelau.com)

FOOD & DRINK

COOL FOOD Cool-weather cooking’s cool

By Mark DeWolf

PHOTO: GIORDANO AITA/123RF

Seasonal Soups: As warm summer nights become cool fall evenings, our cooking routine also changes from light and fresh to rich and robust. You don’t need to be fussy to make a great fall soup. Roast seasonal vegetables such as squash, parsnips and carrots with a little olive oil and seasoning. Combine the roasted vegetables with some chicken (or vegetable) stock and purée until smooth. Soups on! It’s that easy. If you want to ramp up the flavour, add some roasted garlic or bacon.

Braise It: When it is too cool to barbeque, braise. Braising is a wonderful way to bring a lot of flavour into a meal and there is nothing more comforting on a cool evening than the richness of braised meats or stews. When you are choosing the perfect cut of meat to braise, look for tougher cuts that have a lot of inherent flavour and that will also become tenderer via a slow cooking process. Typically, these cuts are from the most worked parts of the animal, such as the shoulders and legs (shank) or, in the case of brisket, the chest of the cow. Brown off some diced onion, carrots and celery, add your choice cut of meat, brown it on all sides and, finally, add a can or two of diced tomatoes, a woody

herb such as rosemary or thyme and enough stock (and red wine) to cover the meat. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer and let the flavours infuse for hours.

Late-Season Barbeque Tips: Don’t forget the vegetables. As we enter the end of the traditional barbeque season, you can keep your barbeque routine seasonal by market-fresh vegetables. Just about everything can be grilled. Fall vegetables such as sweet potatoes and squash are great grilled. Slice them into 1/4-inch pieces and toss them with extra-virgin olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt and pepper. Grill them for three to four minutes per side.

Next Day Smoked Salmon: New Brunswick is home to some the country’s best smoked salmon producers, including Wolfhead Smokers Ltd., Oven Head Salmon Smokers and Miramichi Smoked Salmon, to name just a few. Many local fall celebrations will start with the classic combination of New Brunswick smoked salmon served with creamed cheese, shaved red onion and capers, but what do you do with the leftovers? Add

a little pizzazz to brunch by incorporating smoked salmon into quiche, scrambled eggs or serve savoury pancakes topped with crème fraiche and your favourite smoked salmon.

If you missed breakfast, you can still make something new with smoked salmon for dinner.

Any creamy pasta will love being adorned with some chopped smoked salmon and fresh dill or add the leftovers to creamy mashed potatoes for a unique side dish.

Make-ahead Meals: September ushers in the fall season, but it is also when kids return to school and afterschool programs turn parents into unpaid chauffeurs. A good tip for fall cooking is to make items that can be used later in the week or put in the freezer for those days when there simply isn’t time to cook. Chili, stews and lasagna all make great staple makeahead meals, but consider also making big batches of tomato sauce. Leave a couple of jars in the fridge for the week and freeze the rest. A plate of pasta with some homemade sauce and a simple salad is a nutritious meal that can be minutes in the making and just the right thing when time is tight.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 41

FOOD & DRINK

GOOD EATS Downtown Fredericton has so many great places to eat, it can be hard to choose

By Diane Merlevede PHOTO: DANIEL KORZENIEWSKI / 123RF

PHOTO: SUBBOTINA / 123RF

42 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

PHOTO: PRIMO PIANO / 123RF

hen you’re downtown, you’re surrounded by some of the best restaurants in Fredericton, with plenty of choices for every palate and occasion. Meet business colleagues or get together with friends and family. Grab a bite, linger over a meal, or just sip a coffee or drink.

Here are some of the fabulous places to experience and enjoy during the week or on the weekend.

The Pala ate Re esta aura ant at 462 Que een St. (thepalate.com) The creative food is both Canadian and international, with staples such as Lemon Meringue Salmon, Thai Chicken and a fall favourite — Lamb Osso Bucco, a braised lamb shank with fall-offthe-bone meat. At lunchtime, ask about the Blue Plate special — a melt of the day, such as tuna. The Palate also is known for its seafood chowders, and you can enjoy local beer or wine in the quaint and casual setting, where there are always flowers on the tables and candles at night. On Saturdays this is a popular spot for brunch, which is the only time you can’t make reservations, so it’s first come, first served.

FOOD & DRINK Vault 29 9, 426 Qu uee en St. (vault29.ca) This is one of the newest additions to the downtown scene, creating a lot of buzz since it opened in June.

The 1920s decor theme gives Vault 29 the feel of a speakeasy bar, and there’s even a booth named after Al Capone.

You can get 1920s cocktails, such as a Raspberry Collins or a Sidecar, wine by the glass or bottle, and draft beer featuring some local microbrews and some imports, including an Atlantic sampler and a Belgian sampler, each with three different beers. There also are imported beers by the bottle.

Offering food with flair, Vault 29 specializes in flatbreads, such as a chili and lime chicken or a vegetarian flatbread. You also can enjoy steaks, burgers and pasta, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. The burgers are made fresh, and your choices include not only beef but also chicken or a black bean veggie burger. At the end of your lunch or dinner, why not treat yourself to one of the mini-desserts, presented on a tray in little glass cups.

The King g Street Ale e House, dow wns stairs at 546 King g St. (thekingstreetalehouse.ca) This spot was opened last November by the owners of The Garrison District Ale House, which closed after a fire. Now you can go here for a great selection of craft beer, much of it from the Maritimes but also from across the country and all over the world. You’ll be impressed by the diverse choices on tap and in bottles.

There are also traditional-style cocktails with fresh squeezed juice, such as a Manhattan, Bee’s Knees or Sidecar, as well as a full wine list; including many available by the glass. With its upscale and casual decor, this is such a comfortable place for a drink, a bite to eat or a full meal.

The King Street Ale House has its own large smoker and you’ll be amazed by all the smoked food — beef brisket, chicken, pulled pork, pork belly, salmon, cheese, steak and more. On Thursday nights there is a smoked-steak special, which varies from week to week, depending on the cut — for example, an

PHOTO: WAVEBREAK MEDIA LTD / 123RF

entire striploin can be smoked, butchered afterwards, and then grilled to order.

Brewbak kers s, upstairs at 54 46 King g St. (brewbakers.ca) There are lots of exciting changes at Brewbakers, which has been under new ownership since April.

The menu has changed, the wine list has expanded and the décor has been updated.

The menu has moved toward a more Italian and Mediterranean style of food with New Brunswick products. It still offers some of the long-time favourites, such as thin-crust pizza, lots of pasta, seafood and steak.

With the reinvigorated wine program, the focus is now on mainly Italian and Canadian wines, by the glass or bottle. When it comes to beer on tap, you’ll find that the focus is on New Brunswick and Maritime craft beer. You can also get classic cocktails with fresh-squeezed juice.

Brewbakers’ updated décor, along with its exposed brickwork, helps creates an intimate, Tuscan feel.

The restaurant continues to offer private function space for business meetings or social gatherings for groups of up to 25.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 43

PROFILE

THE GREAT INVESTMENT Fredericton Community Foundation making a difference

By Tom Mason PHOTO: JOY CUMMINGS

Margie and Richard Clarke hether the goal is to supply band instruments for a school orchestra, support for the homeless, funding heritage projects, or feeding local school children who might otherwise go hungry, the Fredericton Community Foundation has been providing much needed community funds for more than half a century.

“We provide grants to around 100 organizations in the Greater Fredericton area every year,” says fund executive director, Tim Fox. “We try to focus our efforts on any area where there is a need, whether that is arts and culture, health, environment, education, youth, heritage, social development or recreation and sport.”

The Fredericton Community Foundation was established in 1956, the vision of Fredericton businessman and philanthropist, Alden R. Clark. “He heard about a similar foundation in Winnipeg and he modelled the Fredericton Foundation after that,” says Fox. “He started it off with a $10,000 donation. It didn’t take long for the community to really get behind it.”

Fox says that with only six community funds operating in New Brunswick, the Fredericton Community Foundation tends to extend its services beyond the boundaries of the Greater Fredericton area, supporting communities throughout central New Brunswick that aren’t serviced by their own community fund.

The organization also recognizes volunteers 44 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

and philanthropists through its annual Philanthropy in Action Award. Formerly known as the Philanthropist of the Year, the award began in 2010 as a way to honour local individuals, families or businesses who have contributed to the Fredericton community through their philanthropic and volunteer efforts.

This year’s recipients are Richard and Margie Clark. The couple has a long history of helping the Fredericton community as long-time volunteers with the YMCA of Fredericton and The Chalmers Regional Hospital Foundation.

Margie Clark has been an important supporter of the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Transition House and the Fredericton Public Library, and even finds time to volunteer with Meals on Wheels to deliver meals to clients throughout the city.

Richard has been involved with Fredericton Sports Investment for more than 30 years and has served as president of Provincial Artisans Inc., an organization to support employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. He has also chaired the United Way’s annual campaign.

The Clarks received a distinctive award designed and crafted by local artist, Michael McQuay. While the award is different every year, each one centres around a stylized hourglass shaped like an old-style globe. McQuay chose the design because it allows grains of sand to accumulate slowly in the lower sphere “just as a series of smaller acts achieves a greater result over time.”

“The Clarks have been involved with this community for a very long time,” says Fox. “Their whole family has been making a huge impact on the Fredericton community over the years. In fact, Richard Clark is actually the son of our organization’s founder, Alden Clark. They are an amazing couple in terms of what they do for this community, how they give so much of their time and how quietly they do it. They aren’t looking for any kind of recognition for their service. They just want to contribute as much as they can.”

Past recipients of the Philanthropy in Action Award include Fred Beairsto, Jason and Tina LeJeune, Bud and Peggy Bird, Edison and Lois Phillips, John Bliss and Dorothy McDade.

The annual Philanthropy in Action award ceremony and dinner is the Foundation’s only fundraising event. Other funds come mainly from charitable endowments donated by the New Brunswick community. Contributors can stipulate what areas they want their endowments to be used for.

Fox says the fact that those endowments will continue to make money available for worthwhile projects in perpetuity represents the true value for the Fredericton community. “That’s the great thing about it. We don’t know what the needs of the community will be in 30, 40 or 50 years. This fund allows us to be nimble. It allows us to respond to needs as they arise. That’s the greatest investment.”

TRAVEL

IT’S FRANCE IN NORTH AMERICA Experience “joie de vivre” in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon

By Heather Laura Clarke

PHOTOS: © JEAN-CHRISTOPHE L’ESPAGNOL - MAX’IMAGES

wenty-five kilometres off the coast of Newfoundland, the locals speak French. The baguettes and pastries are divine, the French flag ripples proudly in the breeze, and you’ll get a great deal on a bottle of Chanel No. 5.

You get to experience France ... without ever leaving North America.

The French overseas collectivity of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is an archipelago (a cluster of islands) that operates as a year-round destination for couples, families, and history buffs.

Just 622 km from Halifax — and 4,300 km east of Paris — the islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon have a population of less than 7,000 people. Tourists describe the feeling of “finally realizing what it means to be on an island,” and locals lovingly call their home “the most remote place on Earth.”

“This place is very unique, because it’s France in North America,” says Beatrice Lescoublet, executive assistant for Directrice Générale, Malika Halili. “There really is something for everyone. You can rent bicycles, go hiking, go shopping, or enjoy a romantic getaway.”

e escrib lly d s t s a Touri of “fin ans g n i l e e the fe what it m ing nd,” realiz on an isla call to be s lovingly cal most and lo ome “the rth.” h n Ea their lace o p e t remo

“The islands are an ideal setting to focus on just enjoying the moment.”

Visitors can access the islands by flying out of Montreal, St. John’s, Halifax or Sydney, or from boating out of Newfoundland during the summer and early fall. Cruise ships dock in Saint-Pierre in June, September and October.

During their stay, many Canadians are interested in eating as much authentic French food as they can hold. The wine, cheese, baguette, foie gras, chocolates and pastries are all just as delectable as they would be at a sidewalk cafe in Paris.

“Our restaurants offer French cuisine enhanced by local products like scallops, snow crab, duck, foie gras and bakeapples — and the wine selection is fabulous, of course,” says Lescoublet.

Feu de Braise and Café du Chat Luthier are famous for pizzas and French meals, and Lescoublet says the Crêperie du Vieux Port, Cyber Poly Gone Home, Atelier Gourmand and la Revolution also offer outstanding French cuisine. Le Mandarin has Chinese fare, and Les Délices de Joséphine makes heavenly French pastries.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 45

TRAVEL

The French overseas collectivity of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is located just 622 km from Halifax, and 4,300 km east of Paris.

TRAVEL TIPS

Experience France without leaving North America.

The official currency in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is the Euro (€). Banking establishments will provide currency exchange services; however, Canadian (CDN) and American dollars (USD) are accepted by most merchants involved in the tourism trade. Major credit cards and traveller’s cheques are commonly accepted.

Canadian Citizens (and foreign nationals holding Canadian identification documents and entering directly from Canada) are exempted from passport and visa requirements for stays of maximum duration of three months within a period of six months.

Adults should bring a driver’s license, passport, citizenship card, or permanent resident card for ID purposes. Minors should bring a passport, social insurance card with a photo, student card with a photo, citizenship card, or permanent resident card.

46 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

TRAVEL

g ethin m o s cal e is “Ther yone: typi e r e lik for ev products nd h a Frenc perfumes ll as ry, jewel are, as we nal a tablew and artis d o o fine f roducts.” p ET

RICE BEAT

OUBL LESC

For those who love to shop on vacation, the islands have nearly a dozen fashion and accessories boutiques, and they sell mostly European brands.

“Visitors will wander the streets and poke around in our shops to find just the right souvenir to remember their stay,” says Lescoublet. “There is something for everyone: typical French products like jewelry, perfumes and tableware, as well as fine food and artisanal products.”

Located just off the coast of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, Lescoublet says L’Île-aux-Marins (The Island of the Sailors) is a popular half-day trip. The 1,500-metre-long island was once home to about 700 people, but it’s now a unique portal into the past with a church, cemetery and historic homes you can tour. It’s so authentic that it still does not have electricity. There’s even part of a shipwrecked ship, The Transpacific, that is accessible for photography.

The area has a rich and varied history. English explorers visited the islands in 1497, Portuguese

explorers came in 1500 and 1501, and French settlers arrived between 1534 and 1536.

“In the late 17th and early 18th century, France and England fought over the islands,” says Lescoublet. “Then on June 22 in 1816, the islands came back permanently under the French flag and are now a Territorial Collectivity.”

Today, the houses are painted in vibrant shades of yellow, pink, red and aqua, and many historic buildings have been turned into museums to share the history of the area. She says visitors are always amazed by the islands’ natural beauty and the warmth and positive energy of the locals.

“Our locals love to talk with visitors, and they’re proud to share our French art of living and our Maritime heritage and culture,” says Lescoublet. “Whether you’re alone or with a guide, you can explore the incredible biodiversity of our natural environment.”

“Share our joie de vivre (joy of living).”

For more information on visiting Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, please visit www.st-pierre-et-miquelon.com.

To call the Place du Général de Gaulle from Canada, dial: 011 (country code) and then dial 508-410-200.

ROBERT SIMMONDS / 47

AUTO

ZERO COMPROMISE BMW i8 boasts beautiful design, eye-popping power, superb fuel economy

By Kelly Taylor

n the surface, the BMW i8 might look like just another sports car. It might look like the most beautiful coupe you’ve ever seen, but the stunning design only hints at the innovation within.

You can’t see how the lightweight design and powerful eDrive powertrain allows a zero-100 time of less than 4.5 seconds. Or how it can be that quick yet have a fuel consumption rating (European cycle) of 2.5 litres per 100 km.

Hidden behind the paint is the carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell, aluminum safety frame and lightweight aluminum-CFRP door panels.

48 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

You have to look especially close to see the optional carbon-fibre wheels or the recycled content in the floor mats. You won’t be able to tell that the textile fabric in accent strips and trim pieces on seats and door panels are made using a unique process combining recyclable polyethylene terephthalate (PET) with virgin wool. Or how the case for the key is a glass fibre composite made from a biopolymer based on castor bean oil.

Invisible is how the carbon-fibre components are produced in an entirely CO2-free facility in Washington state using 100 per cent locallygenerated hydroelectric power. Or how the

assembly plant in Leipzig, Germany is powered entirely by wind.

“BMW long ago committed to being a leader in sustainable mobility,” said BMW Canada spokesman, Rob Dexter. “This commitment has been reflected across our lineup with increasingly fuel-efficient powertrains, emission-reduction technologies and ground-breaking lightweight construction.”

BMW calls it LifeDrive, which means the i8 is a plug-in hybrid, employing a tiny 1.5-litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged gas engine that itself generates a respectable 231 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. It sends that to

AUTO

Photo:s courtesy: BMW North America 2014

the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

The hybrid synchronous electric motor channels its 131 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque exclusively to the front wheels through a two-stage automatic transmission.

A sleek charging station mounts in your garage.

Combined, the two powertrains produce 362 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque.

As sports cars go, that sounds a little ordinary.

Perhaps even on the low side of ordinary. Until you factor in the i8’s featherweight 1,490 kg.

That is almost 300 kg (661 pounds) lighter than a comparably powered V-8 Ford Mustang. With

torque that is 30 pound-feet more than the Mustang, you can imagine why the i8 is so fast.

“The objective of the i8 is to demonstrate that sustainability solutions need not be restricted to compact city-oriented vehicles,” Dexter said.

Along with the BMW i3 “you could call it bookending the two extremes of mobility options.”

The lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor give the i8 up to 35 kilometres of electriconly range, with a top electric-only speed of 120 km/h. In hybrid mode, the electric motor not only shares the duty of propulsion with the gas engine, it also allows the car to share power between the wheels to enhance traction during

spirited driving.

BMW calls its move toward sustainability “Efficient Dynamics,” to convey the notion that lower fuel consumption doesn’t have to come at the expense of driving pleasure — the kick provided by a torquey, fast engine or the joy of tossing a well-handling car through twisty roads.

Key to that is a lightweight vehicle.

BMW says the i8 gets its lightness from the CFRP, which BMW says has similar rigidity to steel but at half the weight of steel and 70 per cent of the weight of aluminum. The wheels, normally aluminum, shed even more weight when outfitted as carbon-fibre units. The ROBERT SIMMONDS / 49

AUTO

aluminum chassis, as a distinct component from the passenger cell, encompasses both the suspension and powertrain components as well as crash protection and structural support.

It’s called LifeDrive because the car is actually two separate components merged as one. The Drive section might sound like something out of Star Trek, but it is the aluminum chassis and houses the motors, transmissions, power-control modules and serves as the structural and crash safety cage.

The Life module is the 2+2 (automotive shorthand for a two-seater with almost two extra seating positions (2+2 is not to be confused with a true four-seater)) passenger cell.

That design allows for a considerable degree of design freedom, BMW says. Which we can take to mean we shouldn’t be surprised to see the same chassis underneath other styles of LifeDrive vehicles.

The i8 speaks to a niche market, with a price tag of $145,000. But it does answer the question “What do I have to give up in beauty and driving fun to save on gas?” with a resounding “Nothing.”

50 / ROBERT SIMMONDS

Introducing the all-new 2015 C-Class.

The path to extraordinary is often the path of more resistance. But it can lead to great things, like the all-new 2015 C-Class. Learn more at AllNewC.ca Be the first to see and experience the C-Class in full panoramic 3D, right now. Download our free Augmented Reality app by searching ‘all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class’ through the Apple iTunes store or Google Play.

© 2015 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.

TriStar Fine Cars, 368 Rothesay Ave., Saint John, NB, 506.634.1940/888.992.7827, www.tristar.mercedes-benz.ca