Experience Tri-Cities Summer 2019

T H E T R I -C IT I ES COMMU NIT Y LI F E STYL E M AG AZIN E SUMMER 2019 F R EE

outdoor life, your style Also inside: STAYCATION IN THE TRI-CITIES No passport required! 12

NINO’S WAY A rescue dog saves his guardian 34

SIMPLIFY YOUR SUMMER MENU Local chefs share their recipes 44

Summer 2019 | Volume 1 | Number 2 PUBLISHER

Laurel Publications

EDITOR / ART DIRECTOR

Laurel Ettinger

Alex

ADVERTISING / GENERAL MANAGER

Alex Whittaker

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rory Green Alex Whittaker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Natalie Bruckner Robin Brunet Lacey Forsyth Rory Green Michelle Hopkins Laurie Jones Christina Martyn Lea Morrison Hafez Panju

Simplify your summer!

T

ransitioning from spring to summer in the Tri-Cities is a beautiful sight to behold. The sights and scents are picturesque and beautifully fragrant. Now that summer is here, we want you to get the most out of it. With our theme, ‘Simplify your summer’ we will help you to vacation in your own backyard and enjoy everything that the Tri-Cities has to offer, enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients with some kick-ass summer salad recipes, manage your family budget through the summer and beyond, and take care of your most important asset, your health!

Enjoy this summer in the Tri-Cities, it’s going to be a memorable one! n

ELECTRONIC IMAGING Laura Michaels

Loomo Marketing Luke Taylor Jeremy Whittingstall

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ALL INQUIRIES Alex Whittaker | 604.760.7553 alex.whittaker@experiencetricities.ca Please visit our website: experiencetricities.ca experiencetricities experiencetricities exptricities

Published under license from Community Clicks Media Group Inc.

– Alex Whittaker

ALEX WHITTAKER

TECHNOLOGY ADVISORS

Renovations Interior Decorating Finishing Carpentry

Don’t move...

IMPROVE! millerinteriors.wordpress.com miller.co.interiors@gmail.com millerinteriors

Home and Health Care Services for Seniors For your family’s peace of mind, we will take care of your loved one’s needs, just so they will be able to grow old, in their own homes, healthy and happy.

Just Like Family is a local company, servicing the Tricities, Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge areas. We provide Home and Health Care services for seniors, including: •Personal care services for daily living activities •Overnight and 24/7 live-in services •Companionship, meal preparation and housekeeping •Dementia (Alzheimer’s) care, palliative care, cancer care •Post-operative care and more . . .

•Bonded and insured caregivers •Services in several languages

For more information please call us (24/7) at 604.704.5115 or visit our website at www.justlikefamily.ca

ON THE COVER

A comfy and chic extension to the outdoors. Read more about musthave pieces and accessories. Increase your home’s value, save money and staycation right here at home – simply!

SUMMER 2019

Contents

HOME & FAMILY

12

Backyard vacations

17

Real estate myth buster

19

Simple financial groundwork

HEALTH & WELLNESS

OUTDOOR LIFE YOUR STYLE

6

Al fresco expansion of indoor creature comforts

20

Senior home care made easy

22

Simplify your summer

27

Tooth tech

31

Body after baby

IN THE COMMUNITY

14

Your Tri-Cities park listings for young kids and older – and of course, for your furry friend

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RORY GREEN

Explore your ‘hood!

32

Olive the best

35

Nino the rescue dog

37

A new way – Rick Glumac, MLA

38

Check out the Tri-Cities heritage organizations

FOOD & CULTURE

42

The new Canada Food Guide

44

Chef’s secrets

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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HOME & FAMILY

OUTDOOR LIFE IN STYLE AL FRESCO EXPANSION OF INDOOR CREATURE COMFORTS

by Laurie Jones

T

he trend to outdoor living has grown steadily, incorporating furniture, cooking options and relaxing décor styles that come straight from the pages of upscale magazines.

And in today’s hot real estate markets, selling features of many homes include expansive decks that draw homeowners and guests outside for entertaining or relaxing by a brick fireplace. Teak or oak dining sets and comfortable chairs with colourful throw pillows and matching rugs set the stage for the new normal of chic lifestyles.

Indoor/outdoor design, your style Miller & Co. Interiors in Port Coquitlam offers services for homeowners to create living spaces that relax, rejuvenate and inspire. “I provide interior decorating and home styling, and my husband, Tim Miller, is a finishing carpenter,” says Lynda Miller.

One unique option from Miller & Co. Interiors is eDecorating. “This is an online decorating process where the customer fills out an email questionnaire to indicate their preferred style. They can either send me photos of their space, or I can go for an in-home consultation,” says Miller. “Then I create a mood board which conveys the general feel for the space, from throw pillows to art to furniture. Clients also get a shopping list indicating where to buy all the items. It’s a great option for DIY’ers who need a little direction on how to create a space they love.”

To reach Miller & Co. Interiors for decorating advice, contact them at Miller.co.interiors@gmail.com or find them at facebook.com/ millercointeriors and Instagram @miller.co.interiors. >

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EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

7

From our greenhouses to your garden.

Celebrating 40 years serving our community!

Custom Indoor & Outdoor Container Gardens

50,000 sq ft of Garden Shop

Amsterdam is YOUR family-owned and operated, year-round garden centre, offering homegrown, organic vegetable plants, bedding plants, hanging baskets and more!

Hanging Baskets, Bedding Plants, Organic Vegetable Plants, Trees & Shrubs

Ask our team about FREE landscape consultations and custom-created container gardens!

AMSTERDAM GARDEN CENTRE

fun and Sign up for d Seminars an educational r all ages! workshops fo

19100 Old Dewdney Trunk Road, Pitt Meadows Open 7 days a week: 604.465.6614 | amsterdamgreenhouses.com

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Zen, steps away Creating a living visual with colourful plants can encourage people to step outside and breathe, pushing their own reset buttons.

Adding garden walls, trees, pergolas or privacy screens make for a truly calming oasis at home.

For over 40 years Amsterdam Garden Centre has been providing a wealth of options for residents to create their own retreat, especially for those with a green thumb.

“Clusters of pots allow for a variety of plants to be grown and can allow for a mix of ornamental and edible plants such as grasses, small trees or shrubs, and tasty produce including lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, herbs, and strawberries,” says Jennifer Kok, horticulturist and sales associate. “We can help people build beautiful mixed container gardens using a thriller (focal plant), spiller (training plant), and filler (smaller, bushy plants).”

SIMPLE TIPS FOR DIY EXTERIOR ELEGANCE • B efore choosing furniture, decide what your outdoor space will be used for – an eating area for family dinners and entertaining, or a comfy lounge area for relaxing and casual get-togethers • C reate privacy by adding items like bamboo blinds, curtains, or privacy planters • C reate ambiance with your lighting. Outdoor string lights, hanging lanterns and a propane fire pit make the most of summer nights • B ring the indoors out! Add decor items like outdoor rugs, throw pillows, candles, and decorative trays for serving drinks and snacks.

Add an element of coziness with a basket of throw blankets 

Focusing on detail can be calming and Amsterdam Garden Centre offers seminars to create Fairy Gardens, perfect for adding some magic to the back yard.

Water delights

For more information go to amsterdamgreenhouses.com, or call 604.465.6614.

Water features can bring a fun addition to the home, or create another layer of calm to the day. Many garden centres stock multi-level fountains that work with a small patio or back yard. For larger properties, adding a pond with lilies and ornamental grasses can create a colourful wow factor. n

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EXPERIENCE DELTA | SPRING 2019

9

At Port Moody Refillery, we are passionate about helping our community get closer to zero waste!

Join us in refilling locally made soaps and cleaners for your body and home.

Metaphysical Healing Boutique, Port Moody

Port Moody’s 1st Soap Refill Store!

Transformation begins with a thought

Find your Inner Peace

SAVE $5 off your purchase of $ 25 or more!

Expires Aug. 30, 2019

229 Newport Drive, Port Moody (located inside Tea & Paper Nook)

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HOME & FAMILY

BACKYARD VACATIONS

NO PASSPORT REQUIRED!

by Laurie Jones

RORY GREEN / @TRICITYPARKS

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V

acationing at home, or staycationing, is not only easier on the wallet it is a chance to see our surroundings through a new lens. Pretend you have out-of-town company coming and make a list of things you think they would like to see, then do them yourself.

Trekking the trails

PHOTO COURTESY (AND ABOVE) ROCKY POINT ICE CREAM INC.

While the Tri-Cities are only 30 kilometres from downtown Vancouver, the area is a hiker’s paradise with over 90 kilometres of hiking trails. From serene strolls through the forest and scenic lakes to the steep Coquitlam Crunch for those who want an intense workout, the region offers something for the whole family. For more information go to vancouertrails. com/regions/tri-cities.

COURTESY ROCKY POINT KAYAK

Fun on the water

The Rocky Point Sailing Association is a membership based club that offers lessons to the public to get CANSail certification. “With a minimum of CANSail 2, people can join our club as a member for $65, then for $180 per year they have full usage of boats for the entire season,” says Gabrielle Savage, sailing director. Membership ages range from 4 to 70s.

Every Thursday night the club has sailing races, with instruction for anyone who wants to learn that part of the sport. Youth sailing programs at summer camp develop a love for sailing at an early age. For more information go to rpsa.ca.

Rocky Point Kayak in Port Moody also offers fun on the water with kayak rentals, paddleboarding, a Kids Camp Program and tours. For more information on all the Rocky Point Kayak activities, go to rockypointkayak.com.

Who wants ice cream?

After outdoor adventuring in the Tri-Cities, the perfect way to finish the day is with a scoop of heavenly delight from Rocky Point Ice Cream. Whether you visit the store at 2800 Murray Street or the roving ice cream trucks, your taste buds will be singing. Check out the flavour details at rockypointicecream.com. n

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EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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Tri-Cities park listings

by Rory Green / @TriCitiesParks

Queenston Park

T

he Tri-Cities has some fantastic parks worth checking out this summer! Be sure to visit each of the Tri-Cities signature parks: Rocky Point (Port Moody), Town Centre Park (Coquitlam) and Lion’s Park (Port Coquitlam).

Each have amazing play grounds, spray parks, trails, bathrooms and are close to food, fields and more.

out active older kids. Both Rochester Park and Queenston Park need to be on your radar! Looking for a place to have birthday parties? Blue Mountain Park has a great playground, a rope playground, shade, a splash park, a wading pool and trails – and best of all lots of covered picnic tables to rent.

New parks have opened in Coquitlam recently that feature innovative design that challenge and absolutely tucker

If you have younger kids and toddlers, shady parks like Glen, Sun Valley and Evergreen Park may be right for you, or consider the Community Centre Tot Lot or Como Lake Park for fenced-in parks with age-friendly equipment and soft rubber ground.

Pajo’s at Rocky Point Park

Whatever makes your perfect park, be sure to visit @TriCitiesParks on Instagram, and check out the link in the bio for a full park directory.

TOP PARKS TO GET FOOD

Rocky Point: Pajo’s, Rocky Point Ice Cream, food trucks, breweries Town Centre Park: Rocky Point Ice Cream, food trucks, concession stand Lion’s Park: Bombay Sweet, Si Senior Taqueria Fiesta Mexicana

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SHADY PARKS Glen Park, Coquitlam (sky train accessible) Galloway Spray Park, Coquitlam Good Neighbour Park, Coquitlam (swings) Routley Park, Port Coquitlam Rocky Point Park, Port Moody Lion’s Park, Port Coquitlam

Photos, this page, clock-wise: Lion’s Park; Panorama Park; Porier Park; Rochester Park

PARKS FOR KIDS WITH DOG AREAS Glen Park, Coquitlam Mundy Park, Coquitlam Maple St Off-Leash Park (between Lion’s Park and Gate’s Park), Port Coquitlam

ADVENTURE PARKS FOR OLDER KIDS

Port Moody Off-Leash Dog Park at Rocky Point, Port Moody

Rochester Park, Coquitlam

Westhill Park, Port Moody

Queenston Park, Coquitlam

Bramble Park, Coquitlam

Blue Mountain , Coquitlam

■

Visit Coquitlamʼs Tourism Booth Today!

All things beautiful! We carry a wide selection of delicious teas, quality paper goods, pens and gifts.

229 Newport Drive, Port Moody 604.492.0101 | teapapernook.com

Monday to Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm, Sunday 11:00am-5:00pm

1116 Brunette Avenue Coquitlam, BC 604-516-6151 info@coquitlamheritage.ca

Monday Tues, Wed, & Fri Thursday Saturday & Sunday

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HOME & FAMILY

Myth Buster – three misconceptions about real estate investment

by Hafez Panju

H

ave you thought about investing in real estate?

Perhaps you have friends or know of people that own investment properties and it seems like a great idea. Or you own your own home and you know how much it has increased in value!

Real estate is an excellent long term investment. It appreciates, someone else (the tenant) helps to pay the mortgage and you own it. What more could you ask for?

Then . . . the thought of becoming a landlord sinks in. You think of all of the stories you have heard. What you thought was a great idea no longer seems that great.

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Myth 1: You can purchase a rental property with only a five percent down payment. Although this is true for your principle residence it is not the same for an investment property. The mortgage rules in Canada require a minimum of 20 percent down payment for a rental property.

Myth 2: Two bedroom condos are better than one bedroom condos.

Yes, a two bedroom home will command more rent, but it will also cost more. Think of all the first-time renters, young couples or people moving into the city. There is a demand for one bedroom rentals.

If there were not, developers would not be building them.

Myth 3: Being a landlord is too difficult. If you feel that way, hire a property manager. The cost is not very much and they will deal with all aspects of finding a tenant, screening the tenant and dealing with any problems that arise.

Don’t let these three common myths keep you from investing in real estate. ■

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

17

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Proudly made in British Columbia | goodtimesdrinks.com

HOME & FAMILY

LAYING THE GROUNDWORK PLANNING FINANCIALLY FOR THE FUTURE IS EASIER THAN ONE MIGHT THINK

by Robin Brunet

W

ith the high cost of housing, onerous taxes, and rising prices across the retail spectrum, it’s no wonder young families complain that their disposable income is next to nothing – and that planning financially for their future is near impossible.

But Alireza Fadaie, president of Westlife Financial Services, never fails to be amused by the fact that these very same people can afford regular dinners out and holidays, among other perks. He says, “Sure, everyone deserves the fun things in life. But they need a better balance between the money they spend on fun stuff and the money they set aside for their financial future.”

pertains to the fact that of the families that rely on Westlife for advice, most of them have home mortgages.

Fadaie says, “The goal should be to pay off your mortgage as quickly as possible, and you can start by

“The sooner you start saving [for retirement], the easier the process will be.” – Alireza Fadaie

Fadaie, who is also author of the book Personal Finance Mastery: how to get a black belt in managing your money , offers simple advice for any family that hasn’t yet planned for retirement. “The sooner you start saving, the easier the process will be,” he says.

The best was to start is to examine one’s budget.

“Determine the amount of money you can set aside weekly without affecting your lifestyle,” he says. “If it’s $100, then fantastic. But even if it’s only $30 or $40 and you still have 30 or so working years ahead of you, that weekly savings ultimately adds up to a lot” – especially if the money is invested in retirement savings or other financial plans.

Two other strategies are essential to consider. The first

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paying weekly instead of monthly – which will help achieve shorter amortization – and also adding perhaps $25 per week to your mortgage payment: because anything you pay extra will go directly to your principal.”

The second strategy addresses the fact that many families are under insured – or not insured at all, whether it is life, medical, or disability. “Obtaining insurance may be a lot easier than one might think,” says Fadaie. “For example, term life insurance is dirt cheap, as little as $30 per month in some cases.”

The Westlife president concludes, “You have tremendous obligations to your loved ones as well as yourself and you never know what might happen to you down the road – so start the financial planning process.

And don’t worry: you won’t need to give up the fun things in life.”

Setting aside money for the future helps ensure they will continue to be able to afford life’s material pleasures well into old age. n

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

SENIOR HOME CARE, MADE EASY JUST LIKE FAMILY HOME CARE ELIMINATES THE CONFUSION OF SENIOR CARE SERVICES

by Robin Brunet

H

ome care is rapidly becoming the desired health care delivery model in North America for seniors. But how can the elderly or their family ensure that their needs are met efficiently and effectively, with qualified professionals doing the work?

For seniors in the Tri-Cities, Pitt Meadows, and Maple Ridge at least, they can rely on a new provider: Just Like Family Home Care, owned

by Coquitlam-based Debby Shen and Daniel Hong.

Just Like Family offers comprehensive services related to in-home senior care throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, and the way it works is deceptively simple. “Essentially, clients contact us and state their specific needs, and we match them with the appropriatelyexperienced caregivers in the region,” says Hong.

The services provided by Just Like Family are arranged under four

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broad categories: personal care (including palliative care, and care for those with Alzheimer’s); companionship (walks, reading, medical appointments, grocery shopping); home support (laundry and ironing, waste disposal, gardening, meal preparation); and overnight/live in care (which encompasses all of the services offered in the other three categories).

Although Just Like Family has been operating in Vancouver for over 10 years now, Shen, 36, and Hong, 31, represent the business’s first wave of franchisees. “The need for home care is exploding across the province, and for people such as my wife, who previously owned a daycare and wanted to do something to benefit our community, it’s the perfect business,” says Hong.

Franchises such as Just Like Family are also a solution for family members who are often obliged to navigate the confusing and time-

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consuming seniors’ care system, a system that is poised to become even more complex as B.C.’s senior population grows.

Indeed, in March of this year more confusion arose when media reported that private contractors in the Tri-Cities would be phased out as Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health shifts to in-house delivery for the majority of home support services they provide.

However, these are contractors associated with the two healthcare organizations and not private companies such as Just Like Family, which is expected to flourish in the Tri-Cities and many other regions.

As for how many clients Shen and Hong’s franchise is able to accommodate, it appears the sky is the limit. “Instead of retaining an in-house staff, we access a network of caregivers who are very experienced across all fields and carefully select them,” says Hong.

“Because this network is so large, we’re also able to match clients with

caregivers that speak Mandarin, Spanish, and other languages.”

Given that the senior care industry in B.C. is booming, Just Like Family is in expansion mode and seeking potential franchisees with a passion for assisting the elderly.

These franchisees in turn are provided comprehensive training assistance, help with set-up, health compliance, municipal and federal compliance guidelines, on-going health related reports, sales and marketing advice, and paperwork.

Already well experienced in people care, Shen and Hong are excited about helping Tri-Cities seniors.

“We love being part of a business model that eliminates bureaucracy and gives clients complete control of what they want,” says Hong. “We’re just a phone call or email away.”

For more information about Just Like Family, phone 604.704.5115, view justlikefamily.ca or email tricities@justlikefamily.ca n

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fiction, cartoons or autobiographies, find some time to feel the pages between your fingers, feel the sun on your face and get cozy wrapping yourself up in another life.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Simplify your summer EMBRACING THE ART OF BOREDOM

by Lea Morrison

T

he suburban struggle is real. Living within the parameters of a family centred city, busy to the seams of self-destruction and competition of self.

Business, busy-ness, the busy of all the mess. It seems like there are these differentiating aspects of life; the desire to prove we are more than we are, and the desire to prove that we have the capability to pile on more as the time consumes our days. Ugh. So here we are riding our bedazzled surfboard of life (mine is pink) as we try to stay on the wobbly board coasting into the season of summer. As a single mother to two boys, an entrepreneur with little to no family support and a summer to schedule, I realized that simplifying is the only road to survival.

How to simplify your summer begins with a refusal to do anything other than implement relaxation, joy and sitting within the moments where you can wrap yourself up in the softness of the season. Here are my go-tos to keeping it easy: 1. Reading for fun Whether you enjoy flipping through magazines, reading

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2. Get your body into nature with adventure Forest, beaches, your backyard, a walk down the street can turn any hectic day into a mini-vacation with the right mindset. Find your footing outdoors by shutting off, shutting down and removing electronics. Take yourself back to the basics of being one with the stillness. Go high-five a tree or allow the water to hug your body.

Find your ‘aaahhhh-yes’ moment.

3. Don’t over-schedule Just say no. Say no to all those events. Say no to over-scheduling your days. Your summer will not only last longer this way, but it’ll be a lot less stressful too.

4. Be bored This goes for adults just as much as it does for kids. Find yourself some boredom. Book a day, (an hour even) a week where you do nothing. When we allow our mind to rest we actually increase our productivity and creative levels. You can get more done when you force yourself to do nothing.

5. Easy meals Gone are the days of winter comfort food, enter the days of barbecues and salads. This is a great time to teach your kids how to throw their own meals together (for example, salad creativity!), allowing you some time to rest too. No kids? The why not prep some salads, yummy bowls and pre-made meals for the week, so when it’s time to sit down and eat, you’ve already taken care of the hard work.

6. Drop all expectations of grandiose vacations I don’t know about you, but every time I go on vacation, I have high expectations of how relaxed I’m going to get, how much FUN my kids will have, how much bonding will happen with friends and family. (Insert image of

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my palm over my face.) Let’s be real here. Vacationing with kids can be exhausting, and for the most part we need a vacation from our vacation because there is so much to plan, so much already planned and so much to do to decompress afterwards. Challenge yourself to go with the flow. Release the need to have the PERFECT vacay and live in the moment as it comes.

7. Prepare yourself for what’s coming Planning a few things out in advance, while monotonous, can actually help streamline and simplify your summer with a bit of grace. Now, don’t go crazy and hyper-plan every minute as that defeats the purpose. But getting things ready ahead of time instead of a mad-rush in the moment can help you de-stress.

8. Adopt an attitude of wellness This is an overall guide to living life, not just living in the summer – but being mindful of your feelings, your thoughts your emotions. Being mindful of what you’re eating, what you agree to do/not do, where you go and who you spend your time with can have large impacts

on how relaxed you actually are. We create our own environment. So if you’re wanting to simplify your summer, create an environment of wellness.

Summer’s cancelled folks Do you want to know what I did to simplify my own summer? I cancelled it all. I have a bucket list of books that I am eager to start, I refused to sign my kids up in day camp so they can experience outdoor boredom like we did back in the 80’s. I even high-jacked a friend’s vacation and will tag along at the end of their stay on Savory Island, negating the need to book anything for myself. I took all the craziness that usually surrounds my early spring planning a wicked summer for myself and my children and just said no to it all. Our staycation will have beach days, lazy afternoons with books when I’m not working, sprinkler fun in the backyard and day trips with great car dancing music.

Happy summer my friends, may you be awesomely bored. n

September 6 – 9, 2019

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ELECTRIC RANGE GAS POWER WITH OVER 900 KM RANGE OF

“ARE WE THERE YET?!”

The 2019 Pacifica is perfect for the whole family with many rewards including: Consumer Guide Best Buy for three years in a row • IIHS Top Safety Pick • Car and Driver Best Minivan for 2019

Visit us today! Stop in for a coffee and stay for a test drive.

2960 Christmas Way, Coquitlam, BC V3C 4E6 | coquitlamchrysler.ca Sales: 604.409.8606 | Service: 604.265.7841 | Parts: 604.359.5997

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IN THE ‘HOOD WITH COQUITLAM CHRYSLER, PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1976

Thanks for joining Coquitlam Chrysler at the May Day Parade. We hope you got to witness Tex, our fleet manager get “arrested” for a Cops for Cancer fundraiser! You’ll find us also at the Pitt Meadows Day Parade and the Teddy Bear Picnic Parade in June and of course, the Saturday Dealership BBQs all summer long.

At Coquitlam Chrysler, we believe in the community we serve. Since opening in 1976, Coquitlam Chrysler has been a pillar of the community through sponsoring local events and organizations. As trusted members of the Coquitlam business community, local sports teams – such as the Coquitlam Express and Port Moody Panthers – are just a few of the sponsorships we’ve built deep connections with.

Don’t miss the HUGE Canada Day Celebration at Lafarge Lake on July 1 and the Hard Rock Car Show on July 20. These events and more to come, show that we’ve always been heavily involved in our community.

We would love to see you at our dealership for one of our weekend BBQs. Coquitlam Chrysler knows how to have fun! We’re at our best when we’re at our busiest, so let our friendly staff and knowledgeable experts help you relax and enjoy the experience. We have everything you need, whether you’re looking for a new or used vehicle, servicing the one you already own, or just want to stop by and say hi. Have fun, stay local and love the beautiful city we call home.

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TEAR UP THE TERRAIN

HEALTH & WELLNESS

TOOTH TECH

FINDING BETTER TREATMENT FOR PEACEFUL DENTISTRY

by Christina Martyn, RDH, BHSc

T

eeth. Smiles. Confidence.

Eating. All important aspects of our daily life, and definitely a side of healthcare that can be easily neglected. Without a healthy mouth, our social and professional lives can be affected, not to mention our overall health and ability to eat healthy, nutritious food. Luckily, technological advances in dentistry have grown at an exponential pace, making for an easier, less invasive and calmer dental visit.

early detection of cavities and prevention of larger issues. In addition, Port Moody Station Dental finds most patients tolerate the size and feeling of digital x-ray sensors better when compared with traditional films. Overall, the development of digital radiography reduces patient radiation exposure, allows detection of cavities sooner and leads to less invasive, shorter treatments for your teeth.

Another great improvement in dentistry is the introduction of digital impressions and 3D mouth scans. This technology creates a reproduction of your mouth and gums, allowing dentists to create mouth guards, crowns and orthodontic appliances with unparalleled ease. Instead of messy impression materials that tend to gag most patients, the iTero scanner is used instead.

This has been truly revolutionary for Invisalign treatment, and

Digital x-rays are another great advancement. With our modern lifestyles we are constantly exposed to radiation and many people prefer to reduce their exposure wherever possible. Dental x-rays are fairly low dose to begin with, however, digital x-rays have 70 per cent less radiation than traditional film.

Dental x-rays are a critical part of a thorough exam – to ensure no infections, cavities or disease go unseen. Early detection is key to reducing the risk of any condition, including cavities and infections in your mouth. The ability to enlarge digital x-rays on a fullsize TV screen vastly improves

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Most dental offices also have small pen-like cameras that are used in the mouth to take large images of your teeth, to capture images of old fillings, cracks and other issues that need to be addressed. This technology is important to continue to diagnose issues early, and enables the patient to see exactly what is happening in their mouth.

A dental team can also check for oral cancer with a non-invasive blue light that can detect tissue changes below the surface, another proactive way to assess your tissue health.

The changing trends and dramatically new technology in dentistry lead to less invasive and more comfortable treatment for patients, with a higher level of care! n

COURTESY PORT MOODY STATION DENTAL

The trend in dentistry is towards digital and paperless processes.

Most offices you walk into now, will greet you with a smile and an iPad to collect your medical documents.

getting a better understanding of your oral health.

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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IN THE COMMUNITY

BODY AFTER BABY

WHY PELVIC FLOOR HEALTH IS KEY TO YOUR RECOVERY

by Lacey Forsyth, BA(Hons); MA; MPT

T

In recent years, pelvic floor health, fitness and education has become much more mainstream. Fellow mamas are talking openly about the changes to their bodies in pregnancy and the postpartum period, and are acting as a resource for one another by sharing their tips and tricks that have helped them navigate the transition.

However, we still have a long way to go to help mothers heal their bodies safely and in an empowered way.

Talking openly about pelvic health is a positive step in the right direction, however changing the social discourse will take more time.

For example, here are two common myths circulating around what’s ‘normal’ after childbirth: Myth 1: It’s ok to leak a little when I sneeze, cough, run or jump. This is normal after having a baby.

Myth 2: The first time you have sex with your partner after childbirth, it’s ok for it to be painful. Have a glass of wine and relax, it will get better with time.

These are two very common perceptions of what’s ‘normal’ after childbirth, however they are far from the truth. Both scenarios are examples of common pelvic floor dysfunctions, and, in most cases, are easily treatable. So, who do you turn to for help?

Today, more and more women are seeking out the specialized services of pelvic floor physiotherapists to guide to support their pelvic health needs. A pelvic floor physiotherapist is a Registered Physiotherapist who has specialized expertise and has taken additional

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COURTESY BUMP PHYSIO & CO

he postpartum journey is HARD. Many women often struggle with taking care of a newborn, managing the household, chasing around toddlers, all the while trying to heal their bodies from birth with very little postpartum education and support.

coursework in internal pelvic exams, pelvic floor dysfunction, pregnancy, bowel dysfunction and gynecological conditions; they have the ability to assess the pelvis from the inside-out to get a 3D understanding of the root cause of your pelvic concerns. Common conditions treated by a pelvic floor physiotherapist include persistent low back pain, hip pain, abdominal separation (diastasis recti), SI joint pain/dysfunction, pelvic girdle pain, pubic symphysis pain, incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, scar tissue, C-section rehabilitation, menopause, bowel conditions such as Hemorrhoids, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) amongst others.

More and more women are not accepting light bladder leakage as a normal part of being a mom and are taking their pelvic health into their own hands. Yes, seeing a pelvic floor physiotherapist during your pregnancy and again six-to-eight weeks after birth is very helpful, however, postpartum lasts forever; it’s never too late to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist to make a change in your pelvic health. Often times a few visits can make a big difference to your overall quality of life, regardless of what stage you are at. ■

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS IN DANIELA HAMMOND’S BLOOD From designing kitchens to stocking them with premium products

by Michelle Hopkins | photography by Alex Whittaker

W

hile her peers were playing with dolls, Daniela Hammond was already manning the cash register and stocking shelves at her familyowned general store in the West Kootenays – she was 11 years old.

“Both sides of my family have a deep-rooted history of private enterprise,” says Hammond.

“Back in Germany, my greatgrandparents on both sides had businesses.”

Growing up in an entrepreneurial home would come to benefit Hammond in more ways than she knew. She gained invaluable realworld business experience that would serve her well.

After years in print advertising, then as a co-owner of a loyalty card program company, Hammond opened her own award-winning interior design firm. However, last fall this modern-day renaissance woman was thinking of retiring.

Retirement was not to be in her cards.

Instead, Hammond went from creating stunning kitchens to stocking kitchens with ultrapremium artisanal olive oils and vinegars from across the globe.

“One night, my husband and I were visiting friends who own three olive oil stores on Vancouver Island, and it got us thinking … maybe, we should explore the idea of my own store,” says Hammond.

After extensively researching the industry and educating herself on the health benefits of olive oil, she founded Olive the Best in Port Moody’s Newport Village.

“I looked at several locations but felt that Newport Village was a great district,” says Hammond, who lives in Coquitlam with her husband.

“We provide different olive oils from farms all over the world to ensure we would carry only the freshest ones we could source. We also carry aged balsamic vinegars, which are aged up to 12 and 18 years.”

From its inception, her brick and mortar location has been busy.

Besides carrying a curated selection of Ultra-Premium extra virgin, fused and infused olive oils and specialty vinegars, Hammond’s shop sells teas, food products, health and beauty products made from olive oil, gifts and more.

“NOTE TO A YOUNGER SELF” Trust your instincts Believe in yourself when others don’t Be willing to jump out of your comfort zone

“After 15 years in kitchen and bath design, I was looking at winding down towards retirement,” she explains.

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Find a mentor you trust and be willing to listen and learn Find and live your passion



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The savvy businesswoman also offers a sensory experience for the consumer. Olive the Best’s features a free, interactive and educational olive oil and vinegar tasting room. In addition, the shop hosts in-store events, like food

pairings, recipe demonstrations and book signing.

“It’s been a huge learning curve and I’m still absorbing information into the health benefits of these products,” says Hammond. “As

an entrepreneur, I reflect how as women, we often second guess ourselves. I’ve trusted my gut instinct.”

It’s fair to say, Hammond’s instincts were right. n

OLIVE THE BEST 259A Newport Drive, Port Moody, BC, V3H 5C9 604.492.0898 info@olivethebest.ca | olivethebest.ca Store Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm, Sun: 10pm-5pm OlivetheBestPortMoody olivethebest_port_moody

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EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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IN THE COMMUNITY

HOW CANCER MADE A DOG AND HIS GUARDIAN INSEPARABLE

NABINA SHAH

NINO’S WAY

by Robin Brunet

W

hen hair stylist and personal trainer Nabina Shah obtained a chihuahua 14 years ago from a woman who cared for strays, she only knew that she had helped save the dog from abandonment: he had been rescued from a dump site in Mexico. She never suspected that Nino, as she named him, would be instrumental in saving her husband’s life.

Shah, 32, says, “Eric and Nino bonded early on when Nino became ill and Eric slept on the floor with him – after that, the dog wouldn’t leave his side.”

Two years ago, during their television viewing routine, Nino began burrowing his head under Eric’s shirt and licking the left side of his stomach. “At one point Nino even licked his stomach while asleep,” Shah recalls.

The habit was so bothersome to Shah that when her friend Darla Harankowski paid her a visit in her Port Moody salon, Shah asked her if she sensed anything was wrong with her husband.

Harankowski, a psychic who had never met Eric, hesitated, pointed to the left side of Shah’s stomach, and replied, “He has something wrong. Take him to a doctor.”

Eric, 53, a 6’ 4” bodybuilder/powerlifter and warehouse worker, rejected the warning out of hand – but Nino maintained his licking routine, and eventually Eric could no longer ignore a growing pain near his ribs.

On May 10, 2018, Eric was diagnosed within an

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aggressive form of stage two colon cancer; one month later surgeons removed a length of his intestine to prevent the disease from spreading to his lymph nodes.

Shortly after the operation, Nino ceased licking and lay contentedly on Eric’s chest.

Shah had always known that Nino was special: prior to meeting Eric, the three-pound Chihuahua had fearlessly tried to defend her from the physical abuse of a boyfriend. But the events that led to Eric’s diagnosis left her speechless.

It’s not something that would surprise medical experts, however. Dogs sensing disease in their human companions is well-documented; tests have proven they can detect different varieties of cancer, diabetes, and narcolepsy, due partly to their 220 million scent receptors being able to detect odors in parts per trillion.

Also stunning to Shah was how the bond between man and dog intensified after the 2018 surgery. “Frequently, I find Eric staring at Nino teary-eyed: my huge husband has been rendered completely vulnerable at the realization that Nino, while healthy and happy, is nearing the end of his own life.”

Struggling to maintain her composure, Shah says, “Eric has now been cancer-free for a year, and he’s switched jobs at his warehouse so he can spend as much time as possible with Nino in his final years. He makes gourmet meals for him. And I know if it were possible, he would do anything to have Nino with him forever.” n

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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IN THE COMMUNITY

A NEW WAY OF DOING GOVERNMENT

by MLA Rick Glumac

F

ostering a free and equal society doesn’t stop after election day. Good government is about enabling open dialogue between the public and elected officials while providing avenues for community engagement.

We’re taking a novel approach toward this at my constituency office, which is equipped with a variety of resources to assist locals to connect to their community.

I invite anyone to follow their curiosity through our doors and experience how we are doing government differently.

One of the things we do is host open houses on specific issues and invite discussion on things that matter most to the people of Port Moody-Coquitlam. These meetings allow me to take concerns directly from my constituents to my government colleagues. This avenue of communication was integral in how we delivered on the expansion of the emergency room at Eagle Ridge Hospital while reversing the previous government’s requirement of selling off surrounding hospital lands. Because of this style of engagement, we were able to determine that the community’s desire to preserve the lands for future hospital expansion.

Our government responded by taking this land sale off the table.

There are also many ways to share your thoughts. Through our MLA Cafe, a drop-in hour at a local cafe, people can casually chat with me over a coffee about what’s on their mind – no appointment necessary. This is just one of the ways we are making government more accessible.

If you come visit our office, you’ll get to meet my friendly and talented staff. They can help you learn more about government policies and services and assist with many

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provincial matters. You’ll also see that the physical office space is a great place for people to gather, discuss and be inspired. We have an all-purpose space including a separate boardroom that can be booked out by individuals or community groups. Providing free space for community use is an important way of helping community groups flourish, which is a good thing for all residents.

Our office is also an incredible gallery space. Local art work is proudly displayed and rotated regularly. You can view this artwork during the Port Moody Art Walk or Car-Free Days or any other day of the week during business hours. We value the collective imagination and hope to inspire and be inspired.

Our office at 2708 St. John’s Street is a place that welcomes you.

As your local MLA, I strive to always be accessible and looking for new ways to engage on important matters.

So why not drop on by, bring the kids (we have a play area for them too) and come chat with us about what matters to you. ■

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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Above: Naturally PoCo exhibit at the PoCo Heritage Museum and Archives. Right: kindergarten and grade one classes from Rochester Elementary School visiting the oldest apple tree in Port Coquitlam. Below: Making birdhouses at Coquitlam Heritage at Mackin House. Bottom right and inset: The Fraser Mills Station and beeswax candle making.

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IN THE COMMUNITY

DISCOVER YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD HERITAGE ORGANIZATIONS ARE A GREAT DESTINATION FOR ‘STAY-CATIONERS’

by Robin Brunet

T

he PoCo Heritage Museum and Archives and Coquitlam Heritage at Mackin House are two distinct entities with the common goal of using exhibits and events to give visitors an understanding of each city’s history and culture.

This is especially salient as the summer months unfold. “For a lot of residents, ‘stay-cations’ – meaning, staying at home for one’s vacation - are the only feasible holiday they can take, and we want to help them make the most of it not only with exhibits but also classes and other functions,” says Candrina Bailey, executive director for Coquitlam Heritage.

Kelly Brown, manager and curator for PoCo Heritage, adds, “We just launched a new exhibit, Naturally PoCo, that showcases our community through the lenses of local photographers and pairs their images with our camera collection, which goes back 100 years.” On the evenings of July 25 and August 29, some of these photographers will

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be on hand to discuss their craft and favourite locations.

PoCo Heritage will also host Heritage Walking Tours (Saturday, July 13, and Saturday, August 10).

“Local walking tours are a great way to explore one’s community, learn new things, and discover hidden gems,” says Brown.

Brown is particularly excited about Creating Art with Nature (Saturday, July 20, and Saturday, August 3).

“This is an art with nature workshop geared towards kids,” she explains.

Coquitlam Heritage has organized a host of summer events, including the Lacrosse: A Truly Canadian Sport exhibit at Poirier Sports Complex; and an exhibit at City Centre Library about Coquitlam’s involvement

in Japanese Canadian internment during World War Two. Bailey notes, “This is in addition to our train station being open for visits Friday to Monday from the end of June to Labour Day, as well as tours of Mackin House, whose garden recently saw the addition of a mason bee house.” The Fraser Mills station is a popular summer venue for story time sessions and crafts making.

Both Brown and Bailey are supportive of each other’s efforts and express admiration for their respective facilities. “Coquitlam Heritage has a wonderful Edwardian heritage home and amazing programming to share with visitors,” says the former.

Bailey enthuses, “PoCo Heritage has a terrific museum with flexible exhibition space. The point is, we both have a lot to offer people of all ages. As the summer of 2019 unfolds, I would urge locals and tourists alike to check our calendars and explore what’s going on.” n

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SUMMER 2019

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Have plenty of vegetables and fruits

Eat protein foods

Choose whole grain foods

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FOOD & CULTURE

WHAT’S ON THE MENU? THE NEW CANADA FOOD GUIDE IS OUT, AND THERE’S SOME SURPRISING CHANGES

by Natalie Bruckner | photo courtesy Health Canada

N

utrition can be so confusing.

One minute we are being told to drink more milk and avoid carbs, the next, to cut back on dairy and to include carbs as part of our healthy eating plan.

So before you start measuring your next portion size, stop! The all new Canada’s Food Guide is out and it hopes to provide some clarity on the do’s and don’ts of healthy eating. Released earlier this year by the Government of Canada, the latest guide waves goodbye to traditional thinking and has some surprises up its sleeve.

First introduced in 1942, the food guide (then called the Official Food Rules) has undergone a number of revisions as our understanding of nutrition science has evolved, however the latest update, released in January, is the first rewrite since 2007 and its findings are far easier to digest.

The interactive online tool is based on a rigorous scientific review and excludes industry-commissioned reports to maintain confidence of Canadians. Gone are the recommended serving sizes and the rainbow of the old four food groups, and in their place are

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recommendations for a plant-heavy eating plan that resembles diets seen across the pond.

So what’s new? “Meat and alternatives” have been scrapped, and in its place the guide suggests that half your plate is made up of fruits and vegetables, a quarter with protein (from plant-based sources such as beans, lentils and nuts) and the other quarter with whole grain foods. It also advises us to be aware of food marketing, to cook more often, eat meals with others, and ultimately, to just enjoy food!

“The shift away from animal proteins to plant-based proteins is huge and will have the biggest impact on health and wellness, and also on the environment.

It’s great to see the government factor sustainability into its recommendations,” says registered dietitian Jennifer Howker, founder of Apple Tree Nutrition Consulting who promotes nutrition education here the Tri-Cities.

“The biggest change is our understanding of gut health and the importance of the microorganisms [mostly bacteria] that live in our gut.

We are beginning to understand the huge effect these bacteria

have on our mental and physical health,” says Howker.

When it comes to drinks, water, hot or cold, remains the elixir of life and is recommended as your drink of choice, and to add some spice, the guide advises adding fruits and herbs like blackberries and mint, or raspberries and cucumber.

Unsweetened and lower fat white milk, soy and almond beverages are included as other healthy drink options, while soda, hot chocolate and those specialty teas and coffees we all love so much are on the “drinks to limit” list, as is alcohol, due to its links with liver disease and some types of cancer. Sorry, we didn’t write it!

And let’s not forget, that many of the foods listed are grown right here in our own backyard! “Eating local has so many benefits,” says Howker. “Local food is full of flavour and nutrients; it is less likely that the nutrient value has decreased when there is a shorter time between harvest and your table, especially for produce such as broccoli, green beans, red peppers, tomatoes, apricots and peaches.

Eating local is better for the environment and promotes a safer food supply as well.” n

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FOOD & CULTURE

CHEF’S SECRETS FOUR SIMPLY DELICIOUS SALADS FOR THE SUMMER SEASON

by Mark Barahona, Valentine Kitamura, Enrique Quiroga and Heather Taylor

F

resh, easy, and pretty enough for a party – these beautiful salads top our list of go-to recipes for summer meals.

Give your summer menu a colourful spin with these quick and easy salad recipes. Keeping it simple is what summer is all about! Just a few steps and a handful of fresh ingredients will wow your dinner guests or add a burst of flavour to any weekday lunch – preferably one eaten in your own backyard.

HEIRLOOM TOMATO & FIELD CUCUMBER SALAD Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 20 Heirloom baby tomatoes 1 Large field cucumber 1 sprig of mint 1 small bunch of watercress 25 ml raspberry red wine vinegar 50 ml extra virgin olive oil METHOD 1. Make sure the tomatoes are room temp before starting the salad. Tomatoes served room temp will make sure you get the full flavour.

2. Slice tomatoes in half and add them your mixing bowl 3. Slice the cucumber in quarters lengthwise. Remove the seeds with a spoon or a small paring knife. Discard the seeds. Cut the cucumber into a medium dice about the same size as the tomatoes.

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4. Pick the mint leaves off the stem, save a few for garnish.

Chiffonade the rest and add to the tomato mixture.

5. Season the tomato mixture with salt, fresh black pepper, raspberry red wine vinegar and olive oil.

6. Put your tomato mixture into your serving bowl, being careful to not add any of the liquor from the mixing bowl into your serving bowl.

7. Mix your watercress with the tomato liquor, then garnish the salad with watercress & mint leaves.  “This tastes like summer!” – Chef Mark Barahona, Crisp Cuisine

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SPRING FRESH SALAD Serves 4 It’s fresh, green, crispy, crunchy and flavourful with a hint of sweetness and spicy horseradish . . . everything to wake up your senses!

INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup of pine nuts 1 bunch of fresh green asparagus 1 tsp olive oil Salt and fresh ground pepper 4 cups of fresh arugula 1/2 fennel bulb 1/2 pomegranate, seeded Feta cheese (to taste) Springs of fresh cilantro For the dressing: 1/2 cup plain yogurt Balkan style 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp chopped chive or green onions 1 tsp prepared horseradish Salt and fresh ground pepper METHOD 1. In a frying pan, over medium heat, roast the pine nuts, for about 5 minutes, until they are all golden. Keep moving them around so they don’t burn. Set them on a plate to cool.

2. Slice the asparagus in little pieces, keeping the spears whole. Using the same frying pan, with 1 tsp of olive oil,

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fry the asparagus for 5 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper. Set them on a plate to cool.

3. Slice the fennel bulb as thin as possible. On each of the four plates, place the arugula in the center; top it up with the sliced fennel, the fried asparagus, spread around the pine nuts and pomegranate seeds and top everything with crumbled feta cheese and cilantro leaves.

4. Prepare your dressing: toss all ingredients in a bowl and whisk to combine.

Season to taste with salt and pepper – more horseradish if you want. Drizzle about 1 tbsp of the seasoning on top of each salad.  “Enjoy right away!” – Chef Valentine Kitamura, Tartine & Maple

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STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD Serves 1-2

RUCOLA PERE NOCE SALAD Serves 2 INGREDIENTS 100g arugula, washed and dried 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/2 Asian pear 1/4 cup walnut pieces 1/2 lemon, juiced Parmigiano-Reggiano shaved (to taste) Salt and fresh ground pepper METHOD 1. In a serving bowl, drizzle the arugula with the oil, squeeze in lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

2. Toss until well mixed with 1/4 of pear chopped, set aside the other 1/4. Add walnuts and taste for seasoning.

3. Slice remaining 1/4 pear.

4. Use a vegetable peeler to shave thin slices of parmigiano.

5. Place parmigiano and pear over top of salad.

6. Drizzle with balsamic reduction.  “Buon appetitio!” – Chef Enrique Quiroga, Doppio Zero Pizza

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INGREDIENTS 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tsp honey 1/4 tsp Dijon mustard 1/4 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp mint (minced) Salt and fresh ground pepper 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 cups arugula (or spinach or field greens) 1 cup strawberries (sliced or quartered) 1 tbsp toasted almonds 2 tbsp goat cheese METHOD 1. Mix together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, garlic powder, mint, salt and pepper, olive oil.

2. In a serving bowl, mix together arugula, strawberries, toasted almonds.

3. Add dressing to salad and toss.

4. Top with goat cheese and serve. n “Enjoy!” – Chef Heather Taylor, The Bennett Craft Kitchen

Got a question for one of our chefs? alex.whittaker@experiencetricities.ca Share your creation and tag us at #experiencetricities for a chance to have your photo featured in our next issue! @experiencetricities

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