GoodLife Barrie July/August 2015

| A U G U S T 2 0 1 5

J U LY/AU GU S T 2 0 1 5

J U LY

LIVING GOODLIFEMAGAZINE.CA

IN THE

LARGE BACKYARD

Oasis

GoodLife BARRIE Edition

L I G MHETR SUM DISHES

SERVING BARRIE | SPRINGWATER | ORO-MEDONTE | MIDLAND | INNISFIL & AREA

Get creative with Colin Springgay, president of Aboda Decor offered tthese responses to the ffollowing questions.

Colin Springgay, Michael Miller, Sue Springgay

Staff offer a wealth of decor experience and expertise, and can source countless more products and design ideas through their many suppliers.

Where did the name Aboda Decor come from?

Colin: “Back in 1999 when we were planning to open up a new furnitur furniture store in Barrie, I started making a list of names that would capture a definition of what we were about. I was trying to come up with the meaning, or the name for your favourite, most comfortable relaxing space in your abode. I wanted a name for our store that would describe that special seat in front of the TV, by the fireplace, or a view out the window. It’s exactly the same feelingthatthecharacterSheldon Cooper in the Big Bang Theory

expresses when he is seated in his spot on the sofa, where he declares “this seat is perfect!”

Aboda is the name I created as a definition for this comfort zone in your abode. Anyone who has sat in an Ekornes Stressless chair and ottoman would know the feeling of finding this aboda space for example. Stressless make the most comfortable chairs in the world. That’s the idea, that’s the feeling, that’s what aboda means in my definition...”it’s being in your comfort zone”! We can help you get into this zone with furniture from Aboda Decor.”

Could you summarize what Aboda Decor is about in one sentence?

Colin: “Providing millions of quality furniture choices for decorating every room in the

home: dining room, living room, bedroom and office furniture.”

If you could tell our readers one thing about Aboda Decor what would that be?

Colin: “It’s free. It’s hassle free.

It’s free to look. It’s free to visit on line. It’s free to call; Our decorating consultation is free.

It’s a good experience that’s free.”

What makes you stand out as a furniture store?

Colin: “Experience, a dedication to customer service, very competitive pricing, and a source for some of the best furniture made in Canada.”

Colin Springgay has been working in the furniture industry since 1975.

31 Commerce Park Drive Barrie, ON L4N 8X1

705.735.1825 www.abodadecor.com

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Advertising Manager Kim Harrison Director of Production Kent Feagan Graphic Design Nick Bornino LuAnne Turner Jennifer Dallman Advertising Representatives Angelika Crisp Debbie Booth Christine Murray Mary March Stacy Rand Stacey MacDonald Debbie Halikas Carolyn Brayiannis Shannon Dunlop Vic Dellamora Sue Hammond Photography Contributions Ellie Kistemaker Bart Card Stan Howe Mike Guilbault Photography Louise Ferguson Editorial Contributions Katherine Elphick Patti Vipond Bart Card Leigh Blenkhorn Gordon Stimmell Dawn Ritchie

21 Patterson Road, Barrie, ON L4N 7W6 Phone: 705-726-0573 for advertising inquiries please email goodlife@simcoe.com or call 705-726-0573 ext. 250 DIGITAL EDITION: www.goodlifemagazine.ca follow us twitter.com/goodlifebarrie

First Place

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Jason Teal, Senior Director & Regional Manager

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Statements opinions and point of view expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or GoodLife.

GoodLife Barrie edition is published six times per year: January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November/December (Holiday Edition) For further information regarding all our products we invite you to call us at 705-726-0573

4 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

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contents 12

33

39 12 Into the Woods 20 In the Kitchen 33 Backyard Oasis 39

Rustic Opulence

An executive estate on the shoes of Lake Simcoe

Explore this Collingwood dream property

Ketan Patel of Taj Bistro

Outdoor rooms to inspire your next big project

6 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

49 Keep it Light This Summer Portfolio 56 Hop to It 59 Fore-ward Living 68

Local fitness and nutrition expert offers tips and recipes

Reflecting on life as an artist - Jo Appleby

Craft beer-infused summer recipes

Wine room is showcase of golf course home

contents 78 84 96 98

Events

Music, events and entertainment for the whole family right here in Simcoe County

Travel

Scenic tours the newest

Oh What a Night Curb appeal Spring 2015

In the Crowd

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49

56

59

96

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editors note

W

hen I was growing up, I always thought of beer as something your dad drank.

This manly beverage was a summer favourite in our home, often accompanied by tossing horseshoes on the beach, and it was the drink of choice while barbecuing on a hot, sunny day.

Beer companies have quickly garnered the attention of a female audience offering endless variety.

They have also made their way into the chef’s kitchen. Whether it’s a stout, pilsner or ale, each concoction offers a unique flavour profile to recipes, elevating the ‘anything but simple’ brew to compete with fine wines. As a tribute to summer, and dads, we bring you a variety of mouthwatering recipes courtesy of executive chef Anne Sorrenti, Chopped Canada winner.

#

And since I believe summer tends to revolve around food and entertaining, food writer Katherine Elphick found some delicious menu items to keep things on the lighter side from local fitness and nutrition expert Michelle Hannan. Along with tips for healthy eating, she also included a tequila cocktail to serve alongside these easy-to-follow recipes.

Editors

GoodLife loves to go inside local properties and give you the best of what is on the market.

Whether you are looking to make a move, or simply want to get some ideas from the finest interior designs in Simcoe County, this issue will not disappoint. From a lakefront estate to a retreat in the woods and an elegant property situated on a golf course, each property is well worth the tour.

Finally, plan your summer vacation with our calendar of family-friendly events, concerts, and outdoor festivals offering something for everyone and right here in our own backyard.

Enjoy your summer edition, thanks for reading.

Watch for us back in September,

6 Extr

$2

ELISEALLAIN

General Manager

goodlife@simcoe.com

Elise Allain

follow us@goodlifebarrie | www.goodlifemagazine.ca

4 Rem

$1 Real estate has always been a passion of mine. I pay attention to what’s on the market at what price and how fast it is selling. I find it fascinating when a buyer takes a diamond in the rough and turns it into one of the best homes on the street. What a rewarding way to make money and improve the community!

It should come as no surprise then that I envy the role writer Dawn Ritchie fulfills for GoodLife. It is Dawn who acts as a guide on many of the home tours we take you on. Through her discussions with the owner, builder or designer, Dawn unlocks the door for us and tours us through some of the most amazing homes in our region.

Combined with spectacular photography, Dawn’s attention to detail leaves me feeling like I was at the house, sitting on the sofa and looking out at the picturesque natural setting. For a real estate junkie like me, GoodLife home tours is a great way to learn more about the market, catch up on the use of design and architecture in making a house a home, as well as keeping track of what’s for sale.

In this issue of GoodLife, you can join Dawn on several home tours – 5 Warbler Way in Oro-Medonte, 11 Forest Drive in Collingwood, and 122 Landry Lane in Lora Bay.

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home tour|Oro-Medonte

STORY BY DAWN RITCHIE PHOTOS BY OVERSTREET PHOTOGRAPHY

P

ass through the iron gates of 5 Warbler Way in Oro-Medonte and the sound of crisp gravel underfoot soon gives way to the trill of birds flitting through the trees. Ahead, a covered wraparound stone porch encircles a two-storey residence uniquely designed to blend in with its rustic surroundings.

The exterior cedar wood siding rising above the lower stone façade was brought in from Muskoka Lumber.

It harmonizes perfectly with the cedar porch columns and decorative trusses in the gables, crafted by Port Carling framers, The Cutting Brothers.

Make the journey around the porch, lit by 17 traditional coach lights (Trans Globe Lighting) and a flagstone pathway leads you past a much-loved fire pit down to 155 feet of lakefront. Here the crystal waters of Lake Simcoe buffet the rocky shoreline. You have arrived at what Phil Ribeiro calls “the cottage,” but what, by any other standard, would be considered an executive residence.

The home rests on 1.9 acres and claims 5,400 square feet of living space with six bedrooms, 4-1/2 baths, crown moulding, California shutters, crystal chandeliers and sconces in nearly every room, including bathrooms and the stairwell, and a second storey catwalk overlooking a vertigo-inspiring 25-foot drop to the great room below.

Despite all this opulence, Ribeiro wanted to bring a “cottage-y” feel to the home and hired Steenhof Stoneworks to install the rare black Muskoka granite for the wood-burning fireplace that soars floor-to-ceiling in the great room. It agrees with the tasteful Revere Pewter walls and creamy Cloud White (Benjamin Moore)

12 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

Rustic

tic

OPULENCE GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 13

home tour|Oro-Medonte

14 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

In 2012 The North moved into its existing larger two-storey Victorian building with private party rooms for catering and special events.

For large scale catering Chef Marco has opened The West Event Centre, suitable for any event or corporate function for up to 250+ people. Still offering his signature dishes in banquet style menus, Marco and his team assure the highest quality of food, awesome presentation, and impeccable service.

britis� gift�&tearoo� casings and baseboards that dress the main floor.

The red oak hardwood floor beneath was laid raw, then sanded, stained Antique Brown and varnished the old fashioned way to accomplish the “smooth look” the owners prefer.

“We didn’t cut any corners,” says Ribeiro, whose primary business is construction. “I hired top tradesmen. I’m a big fan of the wow factor.”

Notably, even his house painter, Serge Demertchian (All Art Inc.), has a second career as a fine artist working in oils and acrylics. The spectacular two-tiered iron chandelier hanging from the vaulted ceiling was also custom-made by a local artisan, Lino Barbosa from Northern Iron.

LMT Millwork skillfully trimmed out the residence with detailed moulding, elegant wainscoting and built-in shelving in the great room that accommodates an 80-inch flat screen TV. The immense walnut-stained decorative exposed beams that rise mid-wall to roofline were the work of The Cutting Brothers. They dramatically frame the floor-to-ceiling arched windows they mimic.

Beyond the Pella architectural windows, one encounters the million-dollar view of Strawberry Island – a wistful vista also visible from the chef’s kitchen and the two master bedrooms found on the first and second floors.

“We bought up here for my mother. She loved the outdoors but didn’t like the three-hour trip to Muskoka. This is only an hour from Toronto but we see deer standing in the yard all the time.

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home tour|Oro-Medonte

And there are wild turkeys in the driveway.”

Sadly, the Ribeiro family lost their nature-loving matriarch shortly after they purchased the land, but the love of all things wild was instilled in her brood and the traditions rage on. “We’ve had as many as four families up here at the same time,” says Ribeiro. “Roasting marshmallows, bike riding up the trails. In the winter, there’s snowmobiling. It’s a private street … so no traffic.”

Fortunately with all this company, the home is equipped with a Noritz ‘Always Hot’ Tankless Water Heater supported by a Pentek Intellidrive Water Pressure Control Center.

16 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

“There’s never a water shortage. We also added a reverse osmosis system for drinking water.

A significant kitchen is required to sustain a crowd this large and the chef’s kitchen in this home accommodates.

A 13-foot island topped with blue veined “Elegant Brown” Quartzite seats four comfortably at the breakfast bar. Three custom pendant lights, also from Northern Iron, brighten the area. A large dining area seating 10 is just steps away to handle the overflow. It too is lit by a sizeable custom chandelier from Iron Works and surrounded by windows that offer a scenic lake view.

RENOVATION

Workflow in the kitchen is a breeze. Both the prep sink in the island and the double basin Mekal sink on the main counter have Touch faucets. The pleasing Anatolia Travertine tumbled subway tile backsplash repels spirited rinsing and all appliances are top of the line Viking.

There are two ovens in the range, six burners and a griddle. A handy pot-filler fills pasta pots with ease. Over the range, a Brigade professional vent hood takes care of any fumes. If two ovens weren’t enough, additional wall ovens next to the built-in fridge, bun warmer and microwave allow several cooks to work simultaneously as partygoers enjoy chilled wine from the built-in wine fridge in the island. The cabinetry is endowed with built-in lighting, soft closing doors and drawers, as well as extra goodies such as spice rollouts, which help to speed the plow for busy chefs.

Both the kitchen proper and the dining area have large planking porcelain floor tiles in a gold S. Wood rectified finish to manage high traffic.

Behind the island, a walk-in pantry is ready for additional supplies to nourish hungry guests.

During formal occasions, a French pocket door slides closed to hide the kitchen from view of the foyer. Move through that access door, past the main floor powder room with its Honed Travertine subway tiles in Latte finish and you’ll cross the foyer’s Marmi Evoluzione porcelain flooring as you travel onward to the east wing where the spacious main floor master is found.

Inside you will find 10-foot coffered ceilings, built-in speakers and a variety of lighting options: recessed, wall sconce and chandelier, all on dimmers, to effortlessly set any mood. A walkout to the patio overlooking the lake is a perfect spot for a late nightcap. “The house lights, HVAC and speaker system are controllable by smart phone via WiFi,” says Ribeiro. “We can turn things on and off from anywhere in the world.”

The master is serviced by a five piece en suite with a freestanding Maryland soaker tub from Alcove that utilizes an Aqua tub filler. A spec-

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home tour|Oro-Medonte

18 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

tacular Apothecary Crystal Candelabra dangles crystals over the tub. His and hers double sinks are set in a Bianco Antiqueco granite countertop with Zendo faucets from Riobel. The floor, bedecked in Silver Shadow porcelain tiles, matches the tile wainscoting on the walls and in the shower enclosure. There, a Riquradi Cabana Shower system in chrome finish washes away the day’s adventures. A discreet toilet closet is secreted off to one side.

Exit the master and ascend the iron-railed stairs (Iron Art Inc. and Sterca Stairs respectively) to the five bedrooms on the second level and en route you can’t miss what may be the most impressive of the many chandeliers in this “cottage.” Stretching 31 inches in height, the boxed Candelabra Chandelier is an art piece worth lingering a moment on.

The second floor catwalk, which has the makings of an art gallery, bridges the east and west wings. The journey across it delivers a bird’s-eye view of the lake through the wall of windows in the great room below.

Two of the five bedrooms upstairs have double bunk beds with full-sized lowers and built-in staircases to the upper berths, taking the daunting task of climbing a ladder out of the equation.

“The kids just love them,” says Ribeiro. The two north side bedrooms share a full bath that dazzles with marble tiles from floor (Marble Grafite) to rain shower (Dolomite White Honed finish) to countertop (Grigio Carnico).

The master on the south side has a private en suite with Dark Emperador Marble tiling and a lovely lake view through the trees. Move down the hall past yet another bedroom, bathroom and the mechanical room and you will encounter a spacious finished room with a barn roofline profile that sits directly above the three-car garage. It is large enough to be a dance studio, gym or a home theatre, which Ribeiro currently calls it. “It’s fully wired for sound.”

Clearly, no detail has been left unaddressed in this upscale cottage. “The door systems have a double pin lock to ensure they are strong and sturdy floor to ceiling. Closets have sensor lights that light up with movement. The house even has a trench foundation three feet wide. Eighteen inches is code. I doubled it. This house isn’t going anywhere.” Perhaps true, but it will be soon moving on to a new owner. The Ribeiro family recently purchased a larger lot in the same rotunda. They’ve decided to build an even grander cottage on this one and have placed 5 Warber Way on the market. The listing is with The Faris Team, Royal LePage First Contact Realty.

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home tour|Collingwood

20 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

INTO THE

Woods

BY DAWN RITCHIE PHOTOS BY MIKE GUILBAULT

The first thing that strikes you about 11 Forest Drive in Collingwood is the light. The expansive open concept kitchen, living and dining space is illuminated with a southern exposure from floor-to-ceiling windows on two adjoining walls. The result is a restful view of grazing deer edging their way through the hardwood forest that encircles this 3/4-acre property. Âť

w The tempered glass inset of the stairway’s balustrade allows light from the front of the house to flow unobstructed to the rear.

To ensure the home was comfortable Becker installed infloor raidant heating on all floors.

22 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

he light was the very thing that drew homeowners Chantal and Anne Lavoie to purchase the home in 2012. “Even on a cloudy day the house is bright,” says Chantal.

A remarkable feat given that the property lies right inside a forest. This magic was achieved by the numerous little details that builder, Jeff Becker of Redwood Homes, incorporated – the tempered glass inset of the stairway’s balustrade that allows light from the front of the house to flow unobstructed to the rear; the Mennonite-crafted cedar front door with its curved transom and sidelights; oversized bedroom windows, recessed lighting, white cathedral ceilings that bounce light and double skylights in enclosed areas.

Becker wanted to keep as many trees on the property as possible. He lives in this highly desirable community – aptly dubbed The Forest – and has a vested interest in preserving the land’s integrity.

“A high-efficiency septic system that is a quarter size of the standard septic is why there are so many trees left standing,” says Becker. “A standard septic would have meant dead trees.” And isn’t it true, that it’s often the unsexy rudiments of construction that most impact what is truly valued.

Becker, winner of the 2003 National SAM

Award for New Home Construction, also chose to use insulated concrete forms (ICF) as the chief structural component. “We were one of the first in the area to use it,” says Becker. ICF are Styrofoam forms you fill with concrete. As the concrete cures, it sits right inside its own insulation. “It’s soundproof with an R50 insulation rating. The drywall nailing phalanges are built right into the Styrofoam so you can drywall right on top of it.

No drafts.”

Chantal, a senior level mining executive who values his quiet moments, speaks highly of the soundproofing aspect. When French doors are open to the patio, the sounds of the forest drift in, but once closed, all is a soothing silence.

Upon entering this serene home, you encounter the home office on the right. “The wife is an artist,” says designer Catherine Staples of Staples Design Group in Barrie who handled the millwork and design. “She wanted a space that was bright and energetic.”

Staples ordered two custom chairs in “Jumper Red” from Lee Industries to liven things up.

The room, which doubles as a sitting area, has a charming built-in desk and bookshelves but the showstopper is the unique coffered tongue and

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411 Bayfield St. Barrie 705-737-1195 www.simcoeav.ca 24 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

groove ceiling with exquisite detailing. To the left of the office lies the mudroom and laundry with direct access to the insulated and fully finished double garage.

Down the hall you arrive in the great room where the focal point is the spectacular polished limestone fireplace surround extending from floor to a soaring 18-foot ceiling. The limestone was sectioned with a three-dimensional cut to provide visual interest. » The firebox is gas-fired but allows for real wood burning. Since the Lavoies are active people they chose to use volcanic logs for instant on/off convenience. The beamed ceiling above is tongue and groove, with a dramatic rust-coloured iron chandelier in a twig motif from Arteriors hanging at the apex. The big upholstery pieces, rug and artwork are all custom by Staples Design Group,

which also sourced most of the furnishings, including the rustic console table behind the leather sofa, appropriately named Walk The Plank, from Caracole, and the Lower East Side museum tables with wood top and iron base from Stanley Furniture. The iron mirror above the buffet hails from Arteriors. Draperies are a “Sculptured Cream” cotton/silk blend fabric with a subtle pattern.

To ensure the home was comfortable Becker installed in-floor radiant heating on all floors. The main level has scraped espresso oak hardwood that imparts a contoured look. The second floor is carpeted and each level employs separate thermostats. Homeowners can save on energy by lowering the temperature for a level not in use. The master bedroom, situated on the main floor – a growing trend that enables retirees to age

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home tour|Collingwood

“

I love that everyone’s together while I cook. We often have twenty or more people here.”

comfortably in their own home – also boasts a dedicated thermostat that allows the residents to set a temperature different from the rest of the house as they cozy into their Caracole mahogany sleigh bed dressed beautifully with bedding from Legacy Linens. “It’s a far more efficient system than forced air,” says Becker.

Off the bedroom, a spa adventure awaits in the master bath. “It’s the one change we made,” says Chantal, who downsized a gigantic shower stall to allow for a freestanding therapeutic tub. The spa shower still remains (large enough for two) and the on-demand hot water system accommodates all.

Another major selling point for the Lavoies was the massive kitchen. “I cook a lot,” says Chantal. But no one likes to be isolated in a kitchen when the party’s happening. An open concept floor plan was the answer. “I love that everyone’s together while I cook. We often have 20 or more people here. The doors are open in the summer, the fire is roaring and even though everyone’s doing different things, it feels like we’re all together.”

The gourmet kitchen is sleek and orderly with all appliances tucked into cream Merillat cabinetry that contrasts perfectly with the espresso-coloured island. A convection oven, separate warming drawer and large microwave are embedded in the cabinetry, as is the »

The gourmet kitchen is sleek and orderly with all appliances tucked into cream Merillat cabinetry that contrasts perfectly with the espresso-coloured island. A convection oven, separate warming drawer and large microwave are embedded in the cabinetry, as is the professional Frigidaire refrigerator.

The massive granite-topped island that spans nearly ten feet in length with a luxurious three and half foot depth.

Above the dining suite hangs the very stylish Beatty Chandelier by Arteriors.

26 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

home tour|Collingwood

The Mennonitecrafted cedar front door with its curved transom and sidelights help the light move through the house from front to rear.

professional Frigidaire refrigerator. The induction cooktop is nearer to the dual basined Kohler sink making the transfer of pots of water to range top a painless operation. The backsplash is a creamy Marfil mosaic marble chosen by the designer.

A series of bronze industrial pendant lights illuminate the massive granite-topped island that spans nearly 10 feet in length with a luxurious three-and-a-half foot depth. The granite is by York West in Toronto. The pendants have a nautical style. “We wanted to bring that element in, since we’re so close to Georgian Bay,” says Staples.

A prep sink is convenient in the centre of the island enabling multiple cooks to work at the same time. Storage is no issue here. The island itself has so much storage that the Lavoies dedicated the walk-in pantry to wine bar status. A built-in wine cooler and storage rack keeps everything tidy and accessible.

28 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

The Lavoies very much wanted a modern look with just a few rustic elements thrown in to reflect their home’s location. The chrome-legged dining table by Regina Andrews of California seats eight comfortably. It had a rough wood surface but was layered with a custom glass top by RCM Glass in Barrie to add ease to elbows. Above the dining suite hangs the very stylish Beatty Chandelier by Arteriors.

Up the stairs to the second level we find two more full-sized bedrooms, each large enough for queen beds, and the ever-popular media room that sports a generous lounging sectional in Vienna Café fabric from Lee Industries. “Just the other day, there were eight of us sprawled out on this watching a movie, “ says Lavoie. “And no one felt cramped.”»

The flat screen TV is a 65 incher, but ample wall space means it could be bigger. Both levels are fully wired for sound and on independent sound

systems so music can be enjoyed downstairs while a surround sound action flick thrills all upstairs.

Through the door off the media room, the artist’s studio is to be found. Originally planned as a storage area accessible through a dropdown ladder in the garage, it was repurposed as a full-sized working studio with a three-sided see-through vented fireplace, two skylights, cork flooring, dedicated air conditioning system and ample wall space for the artist’s renderings.

This is a home built for all the senses and creature comforts. While the Lavoies deeply love this home, they recently put it on the market after purchasing a new lot just around the bend in The Forest and plan to build a new custom home for their retirement with this same builder.

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494 Veterans Drive Barrie www.irvinecarpetone.com | 514 Bayfield St., Barrie ON 705.728.5566 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 29

EST

FU

1978

R NIS HING

S

Carrying on the

Family Tradition Since 1978

Bill Munro

Co-founder of Munro’s

Munro’s Furnishings takes pride in the fact that the fundamental concepts have not changed throughout the years.

Jill and Bill

It was love at first sight when Bill Munro and Janet Curtis met on a train travelling to Montreal. “We were strangers in the night across a crowded train car. It was just one look and we knew,” Janet said. “He was fun, made me laugh.”

They met during the 1978 recession and both were unemployed. The couple rented a home together in Maple, Ontario and soon after began constructing small woodworks. A hard worker, Bill put all his energy into everything he did. Munro’s Furnishings had flourished into an Innisfil landmark at Hwy. 400 and Innisfil Beach Road since its early beginnings. Bill, 74, died surrounded by family May 26 in Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre after a brief battle with lung cancer. Bill did survive to enjoy his birthday May 15 this year.

Bill and Janet built Munro’s Furnishings from scratch. “We had a couple hundred dollars and a few tools,” Janet said. They sold small pieces, including shelving, at flea markets. The first piece sold for $15 and rent was $20. “I

Jill and Family

thought, ‘uh oh,’” Janet said. But the response from shoppers was positive and the couple kept going. “When we got to the end of one year, it was growing steadily, so we said OK we’ll keep doing it. It was probably five years before it really started taking off,” Janet said. Building furniture came natural to Bill; his father was a cabinetmaker/carpenter. The couple opened their first store, Pine By Munro, in Maple. They opened Munro’s Furnishings in Innisfil in 1986.

Munro’s Furnishings began in 1978 in Maple, Ontario Munro’s Furninshings manufactures pine, rough sawn pine, oak, quarter sawn oak, maple and wormy maple furniture. Jill has now taken her creativity one step further by introducing custom kitchens to the incredible lineup of solid custom wood furniture. Jill wants you to truly appreciate the most lived in room within the home by combining both functionality and beauty!

Beautifully crafted, custom solid wood furniture

Worth the wait!

Munro’s Furnishings takes pride in the fact tha that the fundamental concepts have not changed throughout the years. Those core essentials include: that all items are built from solid wood and quality constructed.

Drawers are dovetailed front and back and have double fronts. The backing is tongue and groove construction (even the unseen backing) and is made out of the same wood as the item. Mortise and tenon joints are used in the assembly of all their case goods. Table posts and pedestals are made of solid wood and are solid right through not hollow. Their table skirts are steam bent to fit the table and are solid wood. Munro’s Furnishings custom makes all products to order to meet budget and lifestyle and design choice. Customers really value this attribute with each piece especially made to suit their customer’s specifications including

Solid Wood Construction style, stain, and hardware! There is generally a wait time of 6 to 8 weeks but is absolutely worth the wait!

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In

In the Kitchen in the kitchen|Taj Bistro

• WITH

IN THE

Ketan Patel

BY KATHERINE ELPHICK | PHOTOS BY ELLIE KISTEMAKER

“Three different cuisines under one roof,” is how Ketan Patel, the owner of Taj Bistro, describes his downtown Barrie 40-seat restaurant. “We specialize in Indian, continental and oriental food — and it’s all delicious,” says Patel who recently sat down with this GoodLife reporter to talk about his year-old eclectic bistro.

Wearing a crisp white shirt and a friendly smile, the local restauranteur opened up about his chef’s training, why he chose Barrie and why adventurous diners make him happy.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 33

In the Kitchen in the kitchen|Taj Bistro What led you to open up Taj Bistro in Barrie?

Ketal Patel: I’ve lived in Barrie with my family for over 10 years, and I’ve been planning Taj for the last three years. I was just waiting for the right time and location. Last year, everything fell into place and we opened up Taj in April 2014.

I’ve worked in the restaurant industry for years, both as a chef and in management in England, Canada, India, France and Switzerland. Back home in Gujrat, India, my family runs several successful restaurants — so the food service industry runs in my veins.

Why the name Taj? KP: Taj means crown in Indian. At Taj Bistro, we wear the crown of pride and specialize in serving delicious cuisine. Everything is made in-house and from scratch.

You’ve done a nice job with the interior.

The decor is modern, yet still pays homage to India with a wall mural of the Taj Mahal and Indian glassware.

KP: An upscale atmosphere combined with great food and service is very important to me.

I want people to say: ‘wow’ when they see the dining room and say ‘wow’ when they eat my food. Even though our prices are very economi-

34 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

cal, I’d like diners to feel like they are eating in a high-end restaurant and our modern interior reflects that.

Why specialize in three cuisines?

KP: The idea is to keep everyone happy by covering all the bases. Take a family, for example, the parents might love Indian food, but the kids find it too spicy. Or, the same might happen with groups of adults who can’t decide what food they want. By offering authentic Indian, continental and oriental foods, we appeal to everyone’s taste buds.

Indian, continental and oriental are currently the world’s most popular cuisines, and we have skilled chefs who are trained in all of these cooking techniques.

Is Indian cuisine your main focus?

KP: The majority (about 70 per cent) of the menu is Indian food, specializing in the most popular dishes from regions within India.

Along with Indian (including various curries, etc.), we’ve got several popular and authentic Cantonese dishes (such as prawns in hot garlic sauce and various noodles) and a variety of continental items (such as chicken volute, lamb cutlets or vegetables and cashew nut croquettes) on the menu.

Taking a closer look at the menu, it really is quite eclectic. It’s not often that you see items like dim sum, prawn fried rice, chicken Manchurian, crispy fried chicken strips, creamy Alfredo pasta, Greek salad, masala dosa, vegetable korma or gosht vindaloo all on the same menu.

KP: We offer dishes to please every palate.

With so many items available, how do guests decide what to order?

KP: Ordering is super easy. Our staff has the menu on tablets to show diners what the meals look like. Our staff is also very happy to make recommendations. I love it when our guests want to try new dishes. Adventurous diners always make me smile.

What are your most popular dishes?

KP: From our Indian menu, the most popular items are chicken Tikka Lababdar, Gosht Razala (a lamb dish) and our samosas. From the oriental menu, the top sellers are the chicken or vegetable egg noodles and chicken fried rice.

Finally, the most popular continental dishes are chicken veloute (a French dish), lamb cutlet, buttered broccoli and the in-house made crispy fried chicken strips.

What’s the biggest misconception about Indian food?

KP: Many people think that Indian food means spicy, but that’s just not the case. We are happy to adjust the spice level for individual diners without changing the authenticity of the dish.

We can do spicy and not spicy [smiles].

Spicy, or not, Indian cuisine is just so darn good.

KP: I agree [smiles]. It’s interesting because right now in India, the food scene is becoming really innovative. There are lots of regional cooking competitions going on these days, and it’s amazing to see the creativity. Everyone from home cooks to professional chefs are getting involved in these culinary contests and it’s changing Indian food culture. Even though most of my dishes are traditional, I’m trying to incorporate some of these new Indian recipes into my menu.

Who’s in the Taj kitchen?

KP: My wife, Vaibh, is the head chef and she’s amazing in the kitchen. We also have chef Ketul Mahida, who is a master of tandoori cuisine. Before he moved to Canada, he was the chef at a seven-star hotel in Bangalore, India. I’m also a chef and was trained in Switzerland at the worldrenowned Swiss Hotel Management School.

What’s your food philosophy?

KP: I believe in keeping dishes authentic by remaining true to traditional recipes and cooking techniques. I also insist on making everything from scratch. »

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In the Kitchen in the kitchen|Taj Bistro What about specials?

KP: We offer a ‘daily deal for two’ lunch special (from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) for $19.95. It’s a fivecourse meal, and guests can choose from over 60 items on the menu. There are two starters, one side dish, one main dish and two desserts plus coffee or tea. It’s a great way for guests to try new types of dishes. We also offer other lunch specials for single diners with prices ranging from $6.95 to $13.50 per person.

What about diners with special dietary needs?

KP: All curries are gluten-free and most are lactose-free. We also have many vegetarian items on the menu.

Do you do take-out?

KP: We do tons of take-out. It’s a big part of our business.

Beyond Taj, what’s your favourite foodie destination?

KP: Edison, New Jersey (New York) has a very vibrant Indian community and restaurant scene.

There is incredible Indian food there and the city is definitely worth checking out. Oh, my gosh!

It’s so good [smiles]. Anything from breakfast to the dinner — there’s nothing you can’t find there. It’s the North American epicentre of amazing Indian food!

What’s your favourite meal to cook at home?

KP: I’m very spoiled because my wife is such an amazing cook. But when it’s my turn to make dinner, I make noodles and Indian curries. We have two children, a four-year-old daughter, and a 12-year-old son. My son is a big fan of Mediterranean food, so I enjoy cooking that for him.

You’ve got the ear of thousands of local diners, anything else you’d like to add?

KP: A big thanks to our regular customers who have been so kind to recommend Taj to their friends and family! When our guests are happy, I’m happy!

TAJ BISTRO 140 Dunlop Street East, Suite #101, Barrie 705-252-TAJ7(8257) www.tajbistro.ca

36 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

HANDMADE SAMOSA

SAMOSA FILLING

recipe courtesy of Ketan Patel of Taj Bistro

4 Tbsp unscented oil 1 medium onion, diced 1 tsp turmeric 1/2 tsp cumin seeds

SAMOSA DOUGH

1 to 2 tsp ground cumin

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp dried mango powder

2 tsp whole ajwain (bishop’s weed, or carom seeds)

1/2 tsp garam masala

1 tsp salt 4 TBSP unscented oil warm water, as required

METHOD: 1. Sift the flour, ajwain seeds and salt into a large bowl, and make a well in the centre. Rub the oil into the flour. Add the warm water, a little at a time, and knead into the flour adding more water as required to make a soft and pliable dough (the amount of water will vary each time you make the recipe). Knead dough for 4 to 5 minutes, until smooth.

4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped 3-1/2 cups water 1 cup fresh or frozen peas Juice of half a lemon Salt to taste Large handful coriander, chopped

METHOD: 2. Heat oil in a sauté pan, add the onion, and fry for 5 to 7 minutes, until the onion is soft, but not coloured.

3. Add turmeric, cumin seeds, ground cumin, mango powder and garam masala.

Fry together for a couple minutes, then add the potatoes. Sauté the potatoes

in the onion-spice mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes, until they begin to fray around the edges. Add enough water to cover the potatoes, then simmer for about 15 to 25 minutes, until the potatoes are very tender.

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4. Add the peas, and cook for a few minutes.

Season to taste with the lemon juice and salt.

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5. Take off the heat, and mash coarsely. Stir in the cilantro. Let the filling cool completely before stuffing into samosas.

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METHOD: 7. Carefully cut the dough into 12 equal pieces.

8. Take one piece, and gently shape it into a ball. Dust your counter with a little flour, then using a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a very thin, translucent oval shape. Cut the oval in half width ways. Make a cone shape, using the straight cut side of the oval, pinching the edges together with a little water to help seal the sides.

9. Take a lemon-sized ball of potato stuffing, and place into the cone. Gently fold over the rounded side of the cone, using it almost like a flap, and making it into a triangle. Seal all edges well, using a little water, then using the tines of a fork, press a decorative pattern into the edge. Pinch the top and side edges of the triangle. Assemble 2 samosas at a time.

10. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a deep pot to 350F. I like using a deep frying thermometer to give me accurate and consistent results. Gently lower in the samosas, one at a time. Deep fry them for 4 to 5 minutes, until they are golden brown.

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11. Remove them from the oil, carefully, using a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.

12. Serve warm or at room temperature with various chutneys.

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feature|Backyard Oasis

Oasis

Backyard

STORY BY DAWN RITCHIE

Tranquil sounds of cascading water relax your muscles. Radiant views of blossoming hibiscus thrill your eyes. Smoky aromas of grilled delicacies tickle your taste buds. No, it’s not a luxury holiday in Punta Cana. This paradise is only steps from your door in your own private backyard oasis.»

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 39

feature|Backyard Oasis

Home

renovations are

no longer an inside job. The landscaped,

waterscaped, hardscaped backyard is the fastestgrowing vacation retreat in the land, and contractors and suppliers are busy conceiving every possible way to tweak your outdoor living experience for optimum enjoyment.

What’s on their tempting menu of products?

Read on and try to resist!

Connoisseur Kitchens Forget that quaint hibachi teetering on the back porch. The new trend in grilling is the rambling barbeque island, complete with builtin refrigerators, griddles, rotisseries, deep fryers, prep sinks, side burners and grills that attach directly to your gas and plumbing lines. There’s even the option of a warming drawer to keep your rolls toasty.

Big box stores are now offering starter outdoor kitchens for around $3,000, but it could very easily reach into the double digits if you want top-of-the-line appliances that include refrigeration, says Vince Cassidy of TA Appliances.

But that’s only your starter kit. Increase your recreational quotient with a bar caddy and built-in ice bucket, under-counter lighting and kick stand for guests cozying up to the bar. And

what is a backyard retreat without music? Get your custom stereo system installed right inside in your island’s structure and enjoy your favorite tunes as you dispense your beloved microbrew from your built-in kegerator. ($600-$5,000.)

For those who need even more bells and whistles, enter the wood-burning pizza oven.

Pizza ovens are starting to flood the market, but they come at a price. While they can be handbuilt from rustic cob (clay and straw) for mere dollars or added as non wood-burning insert to a BBQ, higher-end buyers are shipping in hand-tiled ovens direct from Old World artisans in Naples. The cost? Up to $9,000 for the top-of-the-line oven with a vent system, builtin thermometer and powder-coated steel stand.

For those who value the smoky goodness that a wood-burning oven imparts to a crust, price is of no object.

Friendly Fireplaces EEveryone is looking for the next new item, and now it’s outdoor fireplaces. Hop out of that refreshing pool, plunk down in front of a

Cedar Springs Landscape Group

40 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

welcoming fire and unwind. Outdoor fireplaces provide both ambience and a heat source to help extend the season – a beneficial feature for shorter Canadian seasons.

Len Hordyk of the award-winning Cedar Springs Landscape Group out of Oakville points out that while everyone enjoys the smell and crackle of a wood-burning fireplace, code regulations require that chimneys extend beyond the roofline of your house. This is just one of the reasons why his company is getting more requests for outdoor gas fireplaces now. “Out of five requests for fireplaces, four will be for gas today,” says Hordyk. “It’s simpler. Instant heat.

No smell, no smoke, no mess.”

Luxurious Living Rooms The newest fashion in furniture is the outdoor living room with soft, deep seating and midheight “chat tables” that allow for casual dining.

“There’s no doubt there has been a major shift to conversation pit arrangements within the last five years,” says John Hannon of The Patio Collection in California. All-weather wicker is now de rigueur for seating with cast aluminum welded internal framings preferred. “They don’t get rickety over time like grandma’s stuff, which was made out of wood,” says Hannon. Just remember to stand your cushions up when not in use so the rain will bead off.

Chat tables (measuring 22–24 inches in height) find their roots in continental European designs and are taking the industry by storm.

The introduction of fire-tables (gas fire pits that double as chat tables) were the inevitable progression in design and are very hot items this season. “It’s all gotten more extravagant,” says Michele Perone of D.O.T. Furniture and Patio in Barrie. Her company carries 11 different styles of fire-tables.

What’s next on the horizon?

Day beds and cabana loungers of course—now arriving in showrooms everywhere near you.

Debonair Dining The days of plastic chairs are also over. Fine outdoor dining is the new norm. “Entertaining outside has really stepped up over the years,” says patio specialist, Perone. “People are putting full kitchens outside. Your tables and seating have to reflect that.” But elegant al fresco dining

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Robotic Farming Oasis feature|Backyard

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Protective Pavilions The simple patio umbrella used to be all the shelter needed before outdoor furnishings went wild. Not anymore. Gazebos, heated pavilions and covered porches are trending as larger furnishings and kitchens demand greater protection from the elements. Len Hordyk of Cedar Springs reports a huge upsurge in requests for pavilions and, of course, most have a built-in gas fireplace and now flat screen TVs as well.

Wondrous Waterscapes No backyard sanctuary is complete without some element of water. An invigorating swimming pool with embedded waterfall, an exotic grotto, koi pond or gentle trickling fountain can 42 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

instantly transport you to another world.

There are two schools of thought on how to add water features to your backyard oasis – natural elements that bring in birds and butterflies, or architecturally constructed elements that are low maintenance.

Shallow streams that flow gently into ponds provide opportunities for tiny bridges and secret gardens along their path, but masonry walls with scuppers and sheer descents or pools with weirs also deliver a calming cascade of water that can kick those worries to the curb.

Hordyk believes ponds are on the wan and finds his clients are seeking a more modern look. His company is building more sheer descents these days. Sheer descents are long thin openings (often installed in the mortar joints of a masonry wall) that deliver a sheer waterfall of water, which streams into a reservoir (a swimming pool or reservoir tank). You can usually see right through a sheer descent, unlike a rainfall, which is constructed with numerous pinhole openings in a single line to create a waterfall with more turbulence.

On the other hand, Simon Ackles-Dold of Genus Loci Ecological Landscapes reports a new consciousness is starting to take hold and his customers want to reduce their exposure

Cedar Springs Landscape Group

doesn’t have to mean high maintenance.

D.O.T.’s extendable cast aluminum “Breeze” table, for instance, offers hidden butterfly leaves that fold right inside the table so you never have to worry about storing them. Collapse the top down to create intimate seating for four or extend the hidden butterfly leaves for a gathering of 10. After the party just hose it off. “Your leisure life shouldn’t be complicated,” says Perone.

“Cast aluminum is low maintenance. It can stay out year-round.”

to chemicals by installing ecologically natural swimming pools with rockscapes and flowing water filtered by nature. Natural pools are a huge trend in Europe and England right now.

Plants, natural bacteria and aggregate from river rock to pea stone help filter the water, just as nature intended.

Depending on your vision, water features can run you anywhere from the low hundreds for a basic fountain into the high double digit thousands for an in ground pool with sheer descent but the rewards are many. Flowing water relaxes your senses, masks the din of traffic and neighbour noise and invites the daily song of birds into your sanctuary, free of charge.

Hedonistic Hot Tubs For extra pampering, don’t overlook the health benefits of a year-round hydrotherapy

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spa. With jets strategically placed for maximum therapy, Arctic Spas are hot tubs made specifically for our cold weather climates. Their Coyote line could strike fear into a professional masseuse’s heart with 114 jets targeting major muscle groups to service aching muscles and joints.

Leif Crawforth of Arctic Spas says you can get into a quality hot tub for as little as $4,000 or indulge yourself with their fully loaded “Epic” model (up to $25,000) complete with stereo, lights, self-maintaining salt system, waterfall and self-regulating heat system. “It’s the most hydro efficient hot tub on the planet,” says Crawforth. “With remote connectivity OnSpa, from anywhere in the world you can turn on your spa and control every aspect via your smart phone.”

Low on yard space, but still want a daily dip?

The swimspa may be your answer. Expect to pay $20,000 to $40,000-plus for these heated units depending on options. Good-sized swimspas run around 14-feet long by 8-feet wide

and are heated just like a hot tub making them usable year-round. Water depth is generally around 3-1/2 feet, which enables comfortable swimming (against a flowing current) to help melt off those calories. The best part of owning a swimspa is that you won’t lose your investment when you move. For approximately $1,500, you can hire a crane and take your pool with you.

Luscious Landscaping All these delightful bells and whistles are bound to enrich your experience in your backyard retreat, but you shouldn’t ignore the subtler elements that make your outdoor space a sanctuary. It’s really all about the garden.

Landscape designer Debra Lidstone of Barrie’s Garden Centre says there are four things to keep in mind when designing your oasis: lifestyle, functionality, visuals and budget. A big fan of perennials, Lidstone suggests planting perennials that provide “sequential interest.” Just as the

blooms fade from one plant, another will come into flower. “This is where a landscape designer is useful, bringing that knowledge base to the project,” says Lidstone. “I think of it as an orchestra. If all the players play their parts, you have a symphony. If it’s just a random gathering of plants, it’s a cacophony.”

Exterior-design consultant Carleen Reinstein recommends taking your home’s style into account before finalizing every detail, from flowerpots to birdbaths to fountains. Landscaping designer Scott Flammer advises diversity in your plantings with “contrasting colours, forms, heights and textures” to add depth and dimension to your yard’s overall environmental design.

Ground-level landscape design is not your only playing field either. Vertical sightlines are equally crucial to your visual enjoyment. Think of walls and fences as an empty canvas begging for greenery. Whether used as decorative element or as a way to feed your family with a vegetable or herb garden, vertical gardens are revolutionizing the landscaping industry. They cool down a hot deck, improve air quality and create a habitat for beneficial insects.

ELT Easy Green is one living wall system that uses modular panels for exterior applications.

Genus Loci Ecological Landscapes have used their panels to turn an ugly cement wall into a verdant haven of greenery. Today, “planting up” is a way to make use of all of that precious real estate you are paying property taxes on.

A front yard’s curb appeal may be for the neighbors to enjoy, but the backyard is still all yours. It’s the place where you can privately kick back with friends, centre yourself in a peaceful setting and truly live large.

Dawn Ritchie is author of “The Emotional House: How Redesigning Your Home Can Change Your Life” (New Harbinger Publications).

Cedar Springs Landscape Group

44 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

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Visit us at 526 Bryne Drive, Barrie (705) 735-0639 www.martincentre.ca GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 45

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46 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

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n the tranquil Kingsmere Village, you’ll hear songbirds, splashing water from a nearby fountain and the laughter of friends. The idyllic community, located just outside historic downtown Alliston, is made up of residents 50-plus years old who are ready to live simply and with ease.

Just outside your charming bungalow-style home, a lit pathway surrounds a pristine blue pond highlighted with a flowing fountain and tall grasses. It’s the perfect home for birds and growing ducklings and goslings.

Take a stroll and take in the serene environment, sit on a park bench with a good book, or chat with your like-minded neighbours. Kingsmere Village is pet friendly, so your furry friend is more than welcome to enjoy the surroundings too.

At Kingsmere Village, you are in the heart of it all. Explore downtown Alliston’s unique specialty shops and enjoy casual and fine dining eateries and cafes. Spend a delightful afternoon at the Gibson Cultural Centre, the Museum on the Boyne, or take in a sports game at the nearby New Tecumseth Recreation Centre. Play a round of golf just five minutes away at The Nottawassaga Inn and Resort, or walk across the street and swim a few laps in the New Tecumseth Recreation Centre.

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Take a stroll and take in the serene environment, sit on a park bench with a good book, or chat with your like-minded neighbours.

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Kingsmere Village is minutes from grocery stores, banks, churches, Stevenson Memorial Hospital and medical clinics. You’ll enjoy the nearby bicycling, hiking and walking trails. And the community is just a 45-minute drive from services and entertainment in Toronto.

At Kingsmere Village, you can take advantage of the paid services offered by the on-site retirement home including: a games room, dining room, community room, on-site movie theatre, hair salon and outdoor patio all just steps from your front door. The retirement home offers an easy transition as your needs in life change.

Kingsmere Village is a small, friendly community made up of semi-detached bungalows and townhome bungalows. The Cambridge model opens into a bright and sunny living room. You’ll enjoy teaching your grandchildren

wood flooring in the living room, paved driveways, fully sodded yards, garage door openers with keypad and remote, crown moulding in the living area and ceramic tiles.

At completion there will be 118 quality homes in Kingsmere Village. The houses are freehold, which means you own the property.

Phase one construction is well underway and phase two will close in 2017. The community is located off King Street and Industrial Parkway near Highway 89 in Alliston.

To learn more, visit kingsmerevillage.ca or email sales@kingsmerevillage.ca. To book your private showing, call 705-250-5005.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 47

feature|local food

BY KATHERINE ELPHICK PHOTOS BY ELLIE KISTEMAKER

T Local fitness and nutrition expert offers tips and recipes

he summer entertaining season is back. And that means al fresco parties, barbecues and summertime vacations. While the times are fab, summer entertaining and getaways can also mean plenty of extra calories. From fruity cocktails and poolside chips and dip, to burgers and beer, it’s easy to pack on a few extra pounds during the warmer months. 

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 49

KEEP IT LIGHT

feature|local food

TOP 10

TIPS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

to keep it

light

DINING ON THE LIGHT SIDE Courtesy of personal trainer and nutrition consultant Michelle Hannan of the Training Studio in Barrie, here are some tasty low fat recipes perfect summer entertaining.

this summer

Plan your meals ahead of time and pack a picnic basket with healthy foods for vacations and when travelling on the road.

Healthy diets can be derailed on summer road trips by eating at highway fast food stops. Be prepared with a packed cooler of healthy snacks like fruit, raw veggies and sandwiches from home, and then restock your picnic basket along the way at local grocery stores or farmers’ markets.

Try a new sport. From basketball to tennis, adding variety to your exercise program helps to keep you motivated and interested.

Volunteer to bring healthy dishes to barbecues and parties.

The party buffet table can be tough to navigate when there are few low-fat or low-calorie options. Bringing a healthy dish to share with others will help keep your diet on track.

But there are strategies to battle the bulge over the dog days of summer. “Staying slim and trim over the summer requires planning, regular exercise and healthy eating,” says personal trainer and nutrition consultant Michelle Hannan of the Training Studio in Barrie.

Along with serving up some of her favourite healthy recipes, the local fitness and nutrition expert offers top 10 tips for keeping summer fitness, nutrition and weight loss on track. The tips are in no particular order.

Exercise outside. Along with fresh air and better scenery, simply spending more time outdoors – versus in front of the TV screen or computer monitor – equates to an overall increase in physical activity.

Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables. Take watermelon, for example. It tastes great, is low in calories (only 92 calories per 2-cup serving), provides vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and it fills you up because it’s over 90-per-cent water, which helps keep you hydrated.

Watch what you drink. High-calorie beverages like soda, juices and sugary energy drinks can add unwanted and unnecessary calories. Instead, drink water with lemon or mint. Add soda water to alcoholic beverages to reduce calories

SPICY GRILLED SALMON

Choose lean cuts of beef. A barbecued steak is a popular summertime hit, but some cuts are marbled with fat. Tenderloin, and cuts from the hip, such as round steak/roasts, and sirloin tip, are usually the leanest choices.

4 portions (1-inch thick) salmon fillets (about 2 lb/900 gr total)

Make fitness a part of your daily routine. Just like eating breakfast, doing the dishes, or picking up the mail — ensure that exercise is scheduled into your daily schedule.

Avoid adding butter, salt, creamy sauces and dips to main dishes. These simple changes will go a long way to reducing fat, calories and sodium.

Reduce portions sizes and stay away from empty calories found in chips, pop and desserts. Weight loss comes down to simple math. You have to eat fewer calories than you burn.

50 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

Salmon is a flavourful and healthy barbecue favourite. It’s also a known source of heart-healthy and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.

1 tsp olive oil Montreal steak spice

PREPARATION: 1. Preheat barbecue to medium temperature.

2. Lightly brush flesh side of fish with olive oil and sprinkle (about 1/4 tsp per fillet) with Montreal steak spice.

3. Place the fish skin side down on oiled grill and cook until crispy, flip and cook until fish flakes easily with fork (about 8 to 10 minutes per side).

4. Garnish with lemon slices.

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feature|local food

TEQUILA SPLASH A refreshing and light summer cocktail.

Adding the soda water will cut back calories.

1 oz white tequila 1 oz Campari 5 oz soda water PREPARATION 1. Mix all ingredients together in martini shaker.

2. Stir and strain into rock glass filled with fresh ice or a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with orange and lemon slices.

52 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

BARRIE LASIK CENTRE

Providing leading vision correction procedures since 2007

The Barrie Lasik Centre opened in 2007 and has been providing leading vision correction procedures to an increasing number of patients throughout Barrie and Northern Ontario ever since.

Dr. Tayfour, who originally founded the Windsor Laser Eye Institute (WLEI), saw the need for high-level eye services north of the GTA and chose Barrie as the optimal place to provide the They are kind of quality patient care committed to he had already provided in over 50,000 eye surgeries providing the highest quality throughout his career.

“Barrie has the of care and infrastructure of high quality understand the eye care professionals experience of including optometrists and ophthalmologists so their patients that patients receive the and are there entire cycle of care within to provide them Barrie. They no longer with whatever need to travel to Toronto,” they need. said Dr. Tayfour. His CoManagement Program with optometrists throughout Ontario allows patients to have pre and post-operation care with their own eye care professional.

The care provided includes an initial complimentary, no obligation consultation with Barrie Lasik, pre and post operation care with their existing eye care professional, and the highest level of care available in the industry. Dr. Tayfour draws patients from throughout North America based on his reputation as a leading-edge laser surgeon and his drive to stay on the forefront of laser technology

Barrie Lasik Centre

5 Quarry Ridge, Suite 106, Barrie 705-797-1700 • 877-230-2020 www.barrielasik.com

and the many benefits it provides to his patients.

“The base laser technology has been around for some time but it keeps changing,” said Dr. Tayfour. “It is important to stay on the forefront of the technology to provide the best care and results for my patients.”

Once at the Centre, the entire vision correction process takes between 60-90 minutes and has patients resuming normal activities the following day. Patients who currently wear glasses no longer require them the day after their operation.

Dr. Tayfour and his caring, professional staff make the entire process from initial consultation to post-operative care easy and comfortable.

They are committed to providing the highest quality of care and understand the experience of their patients and are there to provide them with whatever they need.

Barrie Lasik has brought a level of vision correction and consultation to Barrie that rivals services anywhere else in North America. Many ophthalmologists and optometrists believe WLEI and Barrie Lasik set the standard for eye care in North America. Barrie Lasik provides the best services and procedures that can be found anywhere and is located on Quarry Ridge Road with easy access to Highway 400.

For more information on Barrie Lasik and how to book a complimentary consultation see www.barrielasik.com.

feature|local food

GRILLED VEGETABLE MEDLEY This colourful and flavourful dish is the perfect side for any summer barbecue.

1/2 bunch fresh asparagus 2 zucchini, peel on 1 large eggplant 10 to 15 whole button mushrooms 2 bell peppers (any colour) 2 cloves chopped garlic 1 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar salt and pepper to taste

PREPARATION: 1. Preheat grill to medium. Slice all vegetables, (except mushrooms) place in a medium bowl, mix together with garlic. Place veggies on tin foil, or on grilling tray.

2. Sprinkle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

3. Place on preheated grill, stirring occasionally. Cook until vegetables are slightly browned, about 12 to 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serves 4.

54 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

FRESH KALE & ARUGALA WALNUT SALAD This fresh summer salad is perfect for any occasion. It’s also the perfect plate partner for the spicy grilled salmon.

3 bell peppers (red) 1 tsp olive oil 1/2 tsp salt black pepper, to taste 4 cups kale, chopped 4 cups arugula 1 medium onion, chopped 1 cup chopped walnuts 150 grams blue cheese, crumbled 3/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

PREPARATION: 1. Preheat oven to 350F degrees.

2. Slice bell peppers and place in a bowl. Lightly toss with 1 tsp oil and season to taste with fresh black pepper. Spread on foil lined baking sheet, and place in oven. Mix occasionally.

3. Meanwhile, in a salad bowl mix together kale, arugula, onion and chopped walnuts, salt and pepper.

4. When peppers are ready (cooked until soft approximately 15 to 18 minutes), place them on top of the salad. Toss in olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste. Top with crumbled blue cheese.

Serve and enjoy. Serves 4.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 55

portfolio|Jo Appleby A rt i s a n i n t e g r a l pa rt o f J o A p p l e b y ’ s l i f e

Reflecting on life as an

artist

By Leigh Blenkhorn

jo appleby Artist

56 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

SATURDAY AUGUST 1

1-8 PM

W

hen working on a piece, the Barrie artist is completely engaged in the process from beginning to end.

As an artist, Appleby has created pieces in oil, acrylic, watercolour, pastel and graphite.

She frequently gets the urge to experiment with different mediums and techniques.

“I like my work to stay fresh and exciting so changing my approach and media keeps it that way,” she said.

A common thread of her work includes reflections, particularly water reflections and the interplay of light and shadow.

“I am drawn by certain colours or colour combination particularly in abstracts, and along with the drama,” she said. “I try to have at least one quiet area in my painting.”

Growing up in the seaside town of Poole in Dorset, England instilled in her a love of the water – from the way it moves and flows to how it interacts with nature.

“It seems I spent a large part of my youth peering in rock pools and was more fascinated by the water playing on the stones than any sea creature that might be lurking there,” she said.

Appleby moved to Barrie in 1986 with her family. “The city is in such a great location, not far from Toronto and equally not far from Georgian Bay where we enjoy exploring the

beautiful islands and inlets in our sailboat.

Water you see … can’t get away from it.”

Her subjects range from traditional to abstract. “If I am working on a more realistic subject or one of my illustrative pieces, I take great care with the planning. The base is the most important, then everything else seems to follow. My approach with abstracts is slightly different. I still aim for good structure and composition but it’s more fluid and things can change on the fly. A lot of happy accidents can lead to something totally different.”

A lifelong artist, Appleby fell in love with art in high school. “My art teacher gave me the tools and permission to do my own thing. It was very liberating,” she said.

Appleby eventually studied art at Georgian College. “My tutors, in particular Marlene Hilton Moore and John Hartman, were very enthusiastic and encouraging,” she said.

Appleby is a member of the BaySide Artists.

The artists have a permanent wall at the Edge Gallery on Dunlop Street and exhibit together at many locations in and around the Barrie area.

You can also catch her work on display at Mom’s Restaurant and the Barrie Art Club. For more information, visit jo-appleby.artistwebsites.com.

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 57

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre

������ ��� ����� ���� ����� �� �����

J

ust two days after Kari and Ken Smith found their 17-year-old son Cody ���� �� ��� ����� ��� ����� ���� ������ came that might have saved his life.

It was the counselling agency ��������� �� ��������� �� appointment for the teenager who had been struggling emotionally.

What angered Kari most about this tragedy was the fact she tried to get Cody help. What she discovered was help for children and teens struggling ����������� ��� ���� �� ��� �� Simcoe Muskoka. ���� ��� ��� ��� ����� ��� ���� ����� ���� ���� ��� ����� “Had he gotten some help, would that have changed this outcome? Nobody can tell me that it wouldn’t have,” says Kari, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) in Barrie does not currently have a specialized program for children and youth with mental health issues.

“Simcoe Muskoka is the only region in the province without a specialized child and youth mental health program,” says Crystal Bell, manager of RVH’s Inpatient and Crisis Mental Health Services.

“We know that 70 per cent of people

with mental illness experienced it as a child or youth and that is why early intervention and treatment is key.” ��� ���� ���� ���� ��� ������������� ������ �� �������� ���� ��� ����� �������� �� ������� �� ��������� ��������� ���� ��� �������� ��� ������ �� ���� �� ���������� ��� ������ ������� �������� ��� � ��� �������� �������� The RVH Foundation’s Hearts & Minds campaign is raising money to equip this desperately needed unit.

“The statistics are shocking. We know that suicide is the second leading cause of death among teens and that one������ �������� ��� ����� ��� ������� by mental health issues and that’s a heartbreaking tragedy,” says Eric Dean, CEO, RVH Foundation. “We also know that last year 1,700 young people came to Emergency departments in this region facing a mental health crisis. Like RVH, many of them were not equipped with a crisis program or inpatient unit to provide appropriate care. Hearts & Minds is focused on raising $3 million to equip a program at RVH. When young people come here seeking help, we will be there for them.

We aren’t right now.”

��� ����� ���� ���� �� ����� ����� ��� ����� ������ ������ �������� ������ �� �����

THE NEED IS NOW

�� ������� ����� � ����� ������ ������ �������� �� ���� ������ �� �� ���������������������������� �� ����� ����� ��������

Help ���� ���� ���� ������� ���������

feature|craft beer

Hop to it

Craft beer-infused summer recipes

A

Anne Sorrenti “I like cooking with beer because it’s versatile and there are so many different flavour profiles- and so much creativity. Now more than ever, it makes cooking and pairing beer with food a lot more fun.”

BY JOSH HAYTER, BEERSNOB.CA

ll the hard work is done. You have opened the cottage, put the dock in the water, and braved the gridlock of Highways 400 and 11. Now it’s time to grab a few brews, sit back and relax with your family and friends, and enjoy the beautiful Ontario summer.

With visitors on their way, it’s time to fire up the grill and make entertaining the name of the game. There really is nothing better than sitting out on the deck and seeing your guests truly impressed and satisfied with their meal.

On the flip-side, there is nothing worse than missing hours of daylight prepping for that meal.

While there is nothing wrong with the classic sausages and burgers, they do get a little tiring. In an effort to find something new that will impress your favourite foodie without losing a day in the sun, I have turned to the Chopped Canada winning Executive Chef of Morgan’s on the Danforth, Anne Sorrenti.

Sorrenti’s love for food and experimenting with flavours began at the age of 12 when she started helping with her mothers catering

company. While sustainable and local sourcing of ingredients may be very trendy right now, Sorrenti’s family, first generation Canadians from Italy and Germany, instilled those values in her at a young age.

When possible, they would grow their own vegetables, and use locally sourced meats. As a child, Sorrenti would help create preserves and smoked meat for the winter. These experiences helped her to appreciate the skill and effort that goes into cooking.

Sorrenti’s passion for experimenting with flavours, coupled with her respect for the process of creating a quality product for people to enjoy, fits in perfectly with the Ontario craft beer movement that values flavour and quality above all else.

“I like cooking with beer because it’s versatile and there are so many different flavour profiles- and so much creativity. Now more than ever, it makes cooking and pairing beer with food a lot more fun.”

Here are some of Sorrenti’s easy-to-make, craft beer-infused summer dishes. » GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 59

METHOD 1. Preheat an oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Mix, then press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake until the crust is lightly toasted, about 5 min.

Spearhead Belgian Style Stout S’more Bars A grown-up take on a campfire favourite.

(If these are for kids, increase the cream to 1 cup and let the adults enjoy the beer alongside the dessert.)

3. Place the chocolate into a medium bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring just to the beginning of a boil. Remove from the heat immediately and pour over the chocolate chips; whisk until smooth. Stir in the beer. Pour evenly over the graham cracker layer.

4. Preheat the oven’s broiler and set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.

14 whole graham crackers, crushed

5. Place a layer of marshmallows on top of the chocolate. Broil until the marshmallows are lightly toasted, about 1 min. Refrigerate until chocolate has hardened, about 45 min.

½ cup butter, melted

6. Cut into squares and serve.

INGREDIENTS

¼ cup white sugar ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon 9 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips ¾ cup heavy cream 1 (10 oz) package marshmallows ¼ cup Spearhead Belgian Style Stout

60 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 61

WELLINGTON COUNTY DARK ALE STICKY BARBECUE BACK RIBS Start these ribs in the oven the night before and finish them on the grill at the cottage ...or under the broiler if the weather won’t co-operate.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

3 lbs baby back ribs

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread onion slices and crushed garlic evenly on a rimmed baking sheet, and place ribs, bone side down, on top. Pour one can of beer over ribs, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cover tightly with foil.

Bake 3 hours or until tender. (After this step you can cool ribs down and put in the fridge.)

2 cans Wellington County Dark I medium onion 3 cloves of Ontario garlic 2 cups of your favourite barbecue sauce (recipe for Anne’s can be found at www.torontogarlicfestival.com) 1 tsp of Dijon mustard 2 tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp Kosher salt Freshly ground pepper

METHOD

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

½ cup, plus 3 tablespoons, water

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, beer and salt and bring to a slight boil.

Once the mixture reaches the boil, immediately turn the heat off and pour in the flour; vigorously stir with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Continue mixing until the dough dries out and pulls away from the pan, about 2 min.

1 ½ teaspoons salt ¼ tsp cayenne 5 ounces all-purpose flour 5 large eggs

Also known as Gougéres, these cheddar and beer puffs are a great quick and easy snack to make at home or up at the cottage.

3. Brush both sides of ribs with Wellington CDA Maple Barbecue Sauce. Grill over medium heat, meat side down, 10-15 min or until slightly charred and crispy, basting several times with sauce. Flip ribs over, and baste cooked side liberally. Close grill lid, and cook 10-15 min more, basting often. Remove from heat; let rest 10 minutes. Cut individual ribs apart, and serve warm with your favourite sides. (You can bake the ribs (step 1) up to a day ahead, but you’ll need to leave them on the grill a few minutes longer to make sure they’re heated through.)

INGREDIENTS

½ cup GLB Canuck

GREAT LAKES BREWERY CANUCK PALE ALE CHEDDAR PUFFS

2. Open the other can of beer -drink half- then pour the other half along with the barbcue sauce, Dijon and maple syrup in a saucepan.

Simmer for 15 min on low heat.

1 cup finely shredded sharp white cheddar cheese Freshly ground pepper

3. Transfer the dough into a bowl, allowing it to cool, slightly, for 2 min. Crack the eggs into a bowl and add eggs one at a time into the dough and mix using a wooden spoon or a mixer. At first, the dough may seem too wet for the egg to incorporate, just keep going ... it’ll eventually come together. The dough should appear shiny, smooth and should fall back on itself, creating ribbons when you lift the wooden spoon. Lastly, stir in the finely grated cheese.

4. Use a 2-inch ice cream scooper, spacing the mounds of dough about 1-inch apart.

5. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 min, or until lightly golden brown. Decrease the oven’s heat to 350°F and open the oven so it sits ajar; bake for an additional 10 min.

62 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

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CANUCK PALE ALE Canuck is west coast style pale ale. It’s got a hoppy aroma with a slightly bitter finish that is well balanced with a soft malt flavour. Light enough for sitting on the dock with a strong enough flavour to satisfy the most discerning craft beer enthusiast in your crowd.

Great Lakes Brewery ABV: 5.2% IBU: 35 Pale ale

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STEAM WHISTLE PILSNER Steam Whistle utilizes light floral hop and sweeter malts for a balanced crisp finish that is perfect for relaxing outside on a hot day.

Steam Whistle ABV: 5.0% IBU: 22 Pilsner

WELLINGTON COUNTY DARK County Dark Ale is a rich malty ale. The roasted malts deliver a smooth, flavour balanced with English hops. This is the perfect beer to enjoy with grilled meats or on the slightly colder, rainy days.

Wellington Brewery ABV: 5.0% IBU: 24 Ale

39 OWEN ST., BARRIE, ONTARIO L4M 3G9

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BELGIAN STYLE STOUT Belgian Style Stout is a very dark brown colour almost black, capped by a rich mocha coloured head. Brewed with Demerara sugar, Curaçao orange peel, coriander and Trappist Ale yeast, this unfiltered stout has a creamy texture. The notes of chocolate and espresso with orange and tropical spice make this a perfect beer for paring with deserts.

Spearhead Brewing Company ABV: 5.8% IBU: 35 Stout

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 63

MIXED GREENS WITH BABY NEW POTATOES, AKIWENZIE’S* SMOKED WHITE FISH AND STEAM WHISTLE VINAIGRETTE * Natasha and Andrew Akiwenzie are First Nations locals who catch and smoke their fish on Georgian Bay. You can find out more at akiwenziesfish.blogspot.ca

INGREDIENTS

DRESSING

800g baby new red and white potatoes, unpeeled, cut in half

Whisk all ingredients below in small bowl.

½ teaspoon salt

2 tbsp whole grain mustard

½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tbsp red wine vinegar 2 tsp dill, finely chopped 1 tbsp capers drained and rinsed 1 small red onion thinly sliced 4 cups of mixed greens 175g smoked white fish or trout flesh broken into chunks

64 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 tbsp Steam Whistle (drink the rest with the salad) 1 tsp honey Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper

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705-728-5211 DOG DAYCARE • GROOMING • BOARDING

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 65

on the market

THE SPENCER COUNTRY ESTATE NATURAL GAS SUBDIVISION 6 models to choose from 1.4 acre - 2 acre treed lots. Easy hwy 400 commute in the Georgian Triangle over Gloucester Pool. Prices start from $399,500 and up. All have triple car garage and some water views. Walkout bsmts available.

Choose your upgrades to customize your dream home. Madden 1890 sq. ft. bungalow starting from $459,500. Dylan 1625 sq. ft. bungalow starting from $419,500. Alexander 2548 sq. ft. 2 storey starting at $475,000.

Many models to choose from.

Christine WOODS Office

721-9111 Direct 321-0365 B.J. Roth Realty Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

Sales Representative

$535,000

ID# 184978 • $1,695,000

UPSCALE & BEAUTIFUL “South Barrie Beauty” Incredibly beautiful 5 BR, 3 ½ Bath 3100 sqft home. Upgraded kitchen w/granite counter, SS appl. & breakfast area.

FamRm w/Hrdwd, FP & built in shelves. Dble door master bedroom w/5pc ensuite. 2- 3pc family baths.

Walk to schools & park. Sought after neighbourhood. MLS 1502541 www.barriehomehunterteam.com

Donna hunter Office

739-1300 Direct 623-9907

B.J. Roth Realty Ltd. Brokerage

Sales representative

$1,100,000

7 BARRIE TERRACE

THE EPITOME OF STYLE & LUXURY!!

Deborah wootton Office

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Direct

Sales Representative

Barrie’s finest waterfront condo with only 8 exquisite suites. 2 b/rms both with ensuites, gourmet kitchen with top of the line appliances, hardwood, ceramics, marble.

3 walkouts to Terrace overlooking the city and waterfront. 2 indoor secure parking spots. Over 2,600 sq ft of superb living space!

Call Todd & Lynn mls 1503688 Todd GUERGIS & Lynn GUERGIS Sales Representatives Office

705-728-4067 First Contact Realty Inc. Brokerage. Independently Owned & Operated

66 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

David weeks Office

735-2525

sales Representative

www.davidjweeks.ca

www.sutton.com INCENTIVE REALTY INC., BROKERAGE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

$2,399,000 Stunning Executive 7 year old 3.1 bdrm custom built waterfront home. Almost 6,000 sq feet of finished living space, ICF foundation, beautifully landscaped with 80 ton of armour stone, newer stairs and dock, plus engineered concrete break wall. Inside the home is a dream, top of the line kitchen and appliances,3.1 baths, solid maple floors, great room with 27 ft ceiling, gas F/P and floor to ceiling windows, heated floors in the lower level. Only minutes to downtown Barrie with Oro taxes.

Call for your personal viewing.

MIDHURST ESTATE

This stately Ian Malcolm designed architecturally significant home is arguably the most memorable estate on the most prestigious street in Midhurst.

Set on a 1.7 acre cul-de-sac lot. Quality is not skin deep here with 7600 sq/ft of the finest materials, design and equipment.

Soaring ceilings and stunning rooms, amazing windows and industrial skylights in an stunning open plan. Please visit www.davidjweeks.ca and enter ID#184978 to view the numerous luxury features of this home.

B.J. Roth Realty Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

B.J. Roth Realty Ltd. Brokerage

$599,900 1630 BIG BAY POINT Beautiful property with over 2 acres of mature trees & privacy. Minutes to Barrie, Go Station and Hwy access. Well maintained home with newer windows/doors, furnace & central air. Enjoy summers in the inground pool surrounded by manicured hedging. Huge barn (2 floors) in great condition. 4 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths. Special one of a kind property!

Robert & Karen

JOHNSTON Sales Representatives

Direct 705-795-4107

First Contact Realty Inc. Brokerage. Independently Owned & Operated

I

MEMORABLE ESTATE ON PRESTIGIOUS STREET

f you’re looking for a home that leaves a lasting impression, 4 Midves Court in Midhurst may be just the address for you. The stately Ian Malcolm designed architecturally significant home is arguably the most memorable estate on the most prestigious street in Midhurst.

This five-bedroom, six-bathroom home has 7,600 square feet of designed space finished with the finest materials and equipment. Every detail has been designed to impress including the indoor pool’s dedicated HVAC and Dectron Dryathon dehumidification system that eliminates odours and humidity. This is the same system that can be found in major recreation centres. The pool also has lock-off doors to restrict entry and camera surveillance, plus a change room and full shower.

Features and flow create grand living spaces inside and out with many walkouts to patios and balconies that take full advantage of the private and beautiful natural setting on a 1.7-acre cul-de-sac lot. The setting impresses immediately.

Your senses will come alive as you drive up the street. The grand drive with light pillars, framed by trees, outstanding architectural impact and the well-planned custom windows with transoms to capture the surroundings from inside create

a level of expectation that will be surpassed when you enter the solid wood front door with water glass.

Once inside, you have a chance to absorb all of the details – the welcoming portico, industrial grade skylights spanning grand rooms, Brazilian Chestnut custom designed stairs, soaring cathedral ceilings and uniquely designed ceilings with up-lighting in many other rooms.

Gourmet cooking is a delight in the large, well-planned kitchen with a twolevel granite counter centre island – perfect for breakfasts or shooting the breeze with the food enthusiast. Separated by a four-sided gas fireplace, the island matches a large granite table that provides the perfect setting for family meals while admiring the floor-to-ceiling view of the outdoors.

One of the most impressive architectural details of the home is an open second-floor walkway, framed with metal and glass railings, that sits above the fireplace. It is the perfect spot from which to admire your family, your life and all you have accomplished.

Q U I C K • • • •

FA C T S

7,600 sq. ft 1.7-acre cul-de-sac lot Five bedrooms, six-bathroom Indoor pool with a dedicated HVAC and Dectron Dryathon dehumidification system

This home is listed with David Weeks at Century 21 for $1,695,000. For more information, contact David at 705-735-2525.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 67

home tour|Lora Bay

68 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

FORE-WARD

LIVING

by Dawn Ritchie Photos by Mike GuilbaUlt

G

ulls take wing along the shoreline of Georgian Bay, banking across emerald green fairways of a championship calibre golf course. This is Lora Bay, an upscale planned golf community and four-season playground that Steve Garrow now calls home. “I can see the water from my laneway,” says Garrow, who was seeking a refuge when he built this exquisite home on Landry Lane in 2011. “We had a house on the east side and the road noise was terrible. We didn’t want to leave Lora Bay but we wanted a quieter spot. So I bought the lot and we built for ourselves.

Now, instead of staring out at a roadway, we have long visual sightlines of uninterrupted green space and someone else is cutting the grass.”

Garrow is the owner of Dezign 2000 and his team of carpenters, along with 65 tradesmen, constructed 14 custom properties in the same enclave of luxury homes. This one was for his family though, and he was pulling out all the stops.

“It was never a spec home, but I did want it to be a showcase property. My customers, who always tend to end up becoming friends, can come in and see what I’ve done for myself. »

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 69

home tour|Lora Bay

“

Now, instead of staring out at a roadway, we have long visual sightlines of uninterrupted green space and someone else is cutting the grass.”

70 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

“

At night when you look up at the wine room, everyone thinks it’s a painting. Because of the indirect lighting, you don’t see any glare off the glass. They have to literally walk upstairs and go inside to be convinced it’s authentic.”

It gives them ideas of what is possible and what we can do for them.”

As you walk through the front door with its ornate caning in the sidelights, “what is possible” is immediately apparent. The first thing you encounter is the floor to ceiling see-through gas fireplace with a 17-foot high Eldorado stone surround. The hearth is at waist level and Tuscan lighting sconces are mounted on both sides of the firebox.

Turn right and dead ahead is the dramatic view of the kitchen with a nine by four foot un-

der lit island and ornate embellishment on the stove’s range hood. Look up and straight above that sits the extraordinary glassed-in wine room situated one floor above in the loft. The tableaux could easily be the setting of a Tuscan romance novel. “It’s like one big mural,” says Garrow. “Classic country chic. At night when you look up at the wine room, everyone thinks it’s a painting. Because of the indirect lighting, you don’twsee any glare off the glass. They have to literally walk upstairs and go inside to be convinced it’s authentic.” Maintained at a constant 58 degrees, the wine room is fully functional and undoubtedly the home’s most unique feature. “It’s a conversation piece, for sure,” says Garrow.

Garrow’s company specializes in wine rooms.

Typically situated in a cellar, Garrow insists that no one really likes to hang out in basements.

“You spend all this money and you never get to see the beautiful wine. You have to do the flight of stairs either way. So why not go up.”

The wainscoting on the stairwell up to the wine loft is milled in place like the rest of the architectural details in this home. The staircase

has espresso oak treads and railing with painted wood spindles. Every fourth spindle in the staircase is iron mixed in with the painted wood to “eliminate heaviness,” says Garrow. “It’s the details.”

Downstairs, panelled off-white walls with routered patterns guide you across the handscraped hickory flooring into a spacious kitchen where inevitably everyone gathers. The ceilings are coffered from the entrance right into the kitchen with recessed lighting and an embedded audio system controlled by wall-mounted controllers.

Two plush leather chairs greet you at the kitchen’s entrance. Perfect for lounging with a glass of wine while dinner is being prepared.

Or to watch the flat screen television flushmounted in the cherry cabinetry above the GE Monogram refrigerator. “We’ve had 14 people in the kitchen and the way it opens up you can handle that number comfortably,” says Garrow.

“Yet it’s still small enough for two people so that you don’t feel like you are sitting in a gym.”

The granite top on the island is heated so that chilly elbows won’t trouble anyone using »

Redfox kitsune

Chalk Paint™ 101 Workshop now available, call to reserve your spot!

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 71

home tour|Lora Bay

“

We’ve had 14 people in the kitchen and the way it opens up you can handle that number comfortably,” says Garrow. “Yet it’s still small enough for two people so that you don’t feel like you are sitting in a gym.”

ABOVE: The pantry has its own prep sink, quartz counters, ample cherry cabinetry and cookbook storage with under cabinet lighting valence.

Rollouts inside cabinets create access ease.

RIGHT: The ceilings are coffered from the entrance right into the kitchen with recessed lighting and an embedded audio system controlled by wallmounted controllers.

72 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

a laptop. The dimensions of the island were also fabricated with entertaining in mind. It accommodates a proper tablecloth.

While the island is granite, the 40-inch deep countertops are deliberately quartz to eliminate monotony. The GE Monogram range has six burners, two ovens and a griddle — a chef’s dream. Dual basin stainless sinks and a reverse osmosis water filtration system support kitchen duties. The home is also equipped with a water softener.

Just off the kitchen, through glass French doors, is the walk-in pantry. The pantry has its own prep sink, quartz counters, ample cherry cabinetry and cookbook storage with under cabinet lighting valence. Rollouts inside cabinets create access ease. Eldorado stone dresses one wall, echoing the fireplace.

In the winter months, the Garrows find they tend to eat at the island, but come summer, once greenery returns, they cross through the arched doorways into the dining area off the kitchen to enjoy forest views of poplar, spruce and native cedar trees. A second gas fireplace flickers warmly in here, brightened by a stunning copper surround.

Down the hall, just off the foyer, is the cozy den where adults can retire for a quiet drink after dinner. Built-in cabinetry holds media equipment and the flat screen TV and the oak coffered ceiling and decorative caning in the windows extends a distinguished air for business meetings.

The adjacent Great Room is arresting with its exposed beams and floor-to-ceiling fireplace. It holds a built in entertainment unit with bead board backing (cabinetry by Exquisite Wood Designs out of Owen Sound) and a wall of windows topped with a curved transom. Just outside is the armour stone-landscaped yard and patio with a gas hookup for the BBQ. The vaulted ceiling with exposed beam ceilings and hickory flooring continue through to the main floor master bedroom, which enjoys the same vistas as the great room. The master bath ensuite has a toilet closet, heated floors, luxurious Air Tub, glass spa shower with rain showerhead and designer blinds that allow residents to see out, but ensures privacy from exterior prying eyes. Cabinetry is again cherry in espresso finish keeping the theme consistent. A fan mounted in the vaulted ceiling keeps moisture moving. Tiles are porcelain with a Corian counter. A purple velvet bench brings a punch of colour to the space. On the second level two more bedrooms can be found with another full »

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705-728-5567 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 73

home tour|Lora Bay

The master bath ensuite has a toilet closet, heated floors, luxurious Air Tub, glass spa shower with rain showerhead and designer blinds that allow residents to see out, but ensures privacy from exterior prying eyes.

bath and a powder room ensuite. The basement level offers two additional bedrooms with yet another full bath with marble flooring. Both basement bedrooms have extra large 42-inch windows with window wells that provide light, air and egress. The basement has in-floor heating to eliminate dampness.

Laundry is on the main floor with quartz counters, stainless steel utility sink, porcelain tile, ample storage and top of the line stacked GE electric appliances. The dryer offers steam settings.

74 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

Aside from the many features of this luxurious home, the real draw may be the community itself. Lora Bay has a private beach with a community Clubhouse where neighbours connect in games rooms, a library, boardroom, fitness centre, pool and sauna and at the popular Friday Night Meet n Greets. “You could move up here as a single,” says Garrow, “and always have a place to go Friday nights. People bring a glass of wine, and inevitably plans are made. Some go to dinner in town, others arrange spontaneous BBQs. Everyone’s friends.”

122 Landry Lane is now on the market. With 3,600 square feet of living space on the first and second levels alone, the Garrows have decided to transition to the next stage in life and downsize. “We’ll definitely stay in Lora Bay”, says Steve Garrow. “We enjoy it here, but we’d like to travel more and have a little less house to maintain.”

For design/build enquiries email Steve Garrow at steve@dezign2000.com

FI

BE

swim wear by. b Whether you aree spending the summer here or going away for a beach vacation‌it is time to think about your beach look.

Jane DeCola, owner of Brabary offers the latest in swimwear that really fits. Jane along with her staff realizes that not every swimsuit is perfect for every body and so they specialize in swimwear lines that accommodate different body types, hiding those little imperfections so you can focus on your best features. To find the perfect swimwear for your body visit Jane and her staff at Brabary.

F I RS T

STOP‌ B E FO RE T H E B E A C H

12 Commerce Park Drive, Barrie 705-792-9242 | www.brabary.com

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Featured Event

A R T I S A N S on the

45TH

EDITION OF KEMPENFEST

&

waterfront

T

he 45th edition of Kempenfest will bring hundreds of artisans and antique dealers to the Barrie waterfront from July 31 to Aug. 3.

The festival, which has been named one of Ontario’s Top-100 Festivals, features live entertainment, a midway, a children’s village and so much more.

The main attraction of Kempenfest is the arts and crafts exhibitors.

This year there are more than 350 of them located throughout the two-kilometre event site.

Kempenfest got it start as the Huronia Festival of Arts and Crafts by members of the Barrie Art Club and the Kiwanis Club of Barrie. Both clubs remain involved in producing the show today. From modest beginnings, the festival has helped Kempenfest grow into one of the largest in North America, with visitors numbering in the hundreds of thousands.

But there is much more to Kempenfest, including antiques.

78 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

A N T I Q U E S

Each year, members of the Barrie Optimist Club host a show of antiques and collectibles at the Centennial parking lot.

There’s lot for the kids as well – an exciting midway, a children’s village near Tiffin Launch, as well as arts and crafts demonstrations for kids. Youngsters will have a blast at Kempenfest but the festival is no place for a dog.

And if that’s not enough, check out the accessible playground at Centennial Beach and take the kids for a dip in Barrie’s popular waterfront beach.

And then there’s the music. Organizers say they have one of the best lineups of music headliners the event has ever produced, and are anticipating record crowds for the evening concerts as well.

Featured performers include April Wine on July 31, Trooper on Aug. 1, George Canyon on Aug. 2 and The Martels Farewell Tour on Aug. 3.

For more information, visit kempenfest.com or call 705-739-4216.

EVENTS

W

events|things to do

i

T w P

33

B h a C

THINGS TO DO in Barrie and surrounding areas J U LY | A U G U S T | S E P T E M B E R

1

Get sexy. Sexy Laundry, a comedy of unmentionable hilarity, is at the King’s Wharf Theatre in Penetanguishene until July 28. After 25 years of marriage, time, kids, stress – and gravity have all taken their toll on Alice and Henry’s relationship. Worried about their future, Alice decides to take charge of the situation by arming herself with a copy of Sex for Dummies and booking a swanky hotel room for a romantic getaway. Tickets start at $25. draytonentertainment.com.

2

Make memories. Duck Soup Productions, a Young People’s Theatre Co., presents Cats on stage at the Orillia Opera House until Aug. 18. Based on the universally popular poetry of T.S. Elliot, Cats tells the story in song and dance of the annual gathering of Jellicle cats at which time one special cat is selected to ascend to the Heaviside layer. Tickets are $18. orilliaoperahouse.ca.

3

GABRIEL IGLESIAS JULY 24 AT 9 P.M. CASINO RAMA

and Word Crimes (Robin Thicke’s Blurred Lines) and many of his classics including Eat It and Amish Paradise. Tickets start at $30. casinorama.com.

5

Laugh out loud. Gabriel Iglesias hits Casino Rama July 24. His high-octane show is a sure-fire hit: a mixture of storytelling, parodies, characters and sound effects that bring all of his personal experiences to life.

Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $35. casinorama.com.

6

Experience Beatlemania. Replay – The Beatles Tribute hits the Orillia Opera House stage July 25 at 3 p.m. Listen to favourite songs like She Loves You, I Want To Hold Your Hand, A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, Michelle, Penny Lane, Get Back, Hey Jude and many more. Tickets are $26 for adults. orilliaoperahouse.ca.

Hear something new. The Budweiser New Music Fest takes over Barrie July 17 and 18. This live music festival features roughly 70 live touring artists of various genres, performing a series of concerts and showcases at the city’s live music venues. newmusicfest. ca or 1-866-312-9692.

Get pumped up. The second-annual GNC Live Well Natural Barrie Championships will be held at the Georgian Theatre July 25. Prejudge will begin at 9 a.m. and finals will take place at 5 p.m. Ticket prices vary. theatres.barrie.ca

4

Catch some classics. The Barrie Thunder Classics hosts the annual Classics in the Park Car Show at Heritage Park July 25 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 300 classic

Get weird. Weird Al Yankovic brings The Mandatory World Tour to Casino Rama July 18 at 9 p.m. Hear new hits like Tacky (Pharrell Williams’ Happy), Foil (Lorde’s Royals)

80 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

7 8

and collector car and trucks will be on display.

Admission is free. barriethunderclassics.com

9

Hear from a hall-of-famer. Five-time Grammy Award-winner and Canadian Music hall of Fame inductee David Clayton-Thomas has a unique voice that will stop you in your tracks. The former lead singer of Blood, Sweat and Tears will be accompanied by an 11-piece jazz band when he hits the Orillia Opera House on July 29. Tickets are $52. orilliaoperahouse. ca.

10

See a foursome. From July 30 to Aug. 8, Orillia Opera House welcomes Norm Foster’s Ladies Foursome, a female version of The Foursome, but with a completely different story. Four women share the greens and discuss life, love, men, sex, children, careers –everything but golf. Many surprises, secrets and confessions come to the surface during this hilarious and heart-warming round of golf. Tickets start at $29. orilliaoperahouse.ca.

11

Be Kool. Kool and the Gang ride into Casino Rama July 31. Known for their hits Celebration, Get Down on It, Ladies Night and Cherish. Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $30. casinorama.com.

W N W B

E m

F ja

WOMEN’S

inTUITION Transform the lives of women through the Power of Education Be one of the 250 female leaders to help raise $750,000 to support awards and scholarships for female Georgian College students.

We will celebrate our success on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2015, 5:30 p.m., at the Sadlon Health, Wellness and Sciences Centre, Georgian College – Barrie Campus.

Enjoy gourmet hors d’oeuvres, specialty cocktails, music, entertainment, networking and goodie bags.

For more information contact: janice.eales@georgiancollege.ca

ACCELERATE your success GeorgianCollege.ca/womensintuition

EVENTS

NEW MUSIC FEST JULY 17 AND 18 SHOWCASES AT THE CITY’S LIVE MUSIC VENUES, BARRIE

HOCKEY NIGHT IN BARRIE AUGUST 13 AT 6:30 P.M. BARRIE MOLSON CENTRE

12

17

13

Watch hockey, support RVH. The 8th Annual Hockey Night in Barrie, presented by Patrick Brown, is Aug. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Cheer for local hockey stars, former and current NHLers and local business folks at this charity hockey game that raises funds for the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre’s Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre and the development of a Child and Youth Mental Health inpatient unit. hockeynightinbarrie.com.

Get artsy and crafty. The 45th edition of Kempenfest brings hundreds of artisans and antique dealers to the waterfront from July 31 to Aug. 3. The festival, which has been named one of Ontario’s Top-100 Festivals, features live entertainment, a midway and children’s village. kempenfest. com or 705-739-4216.

Be serenaded. Casino Rama welcomes Neil Sedaka Aug. 1. Sedaka is best known for his hits Calendar Girl, Laughter in the Rain and Breaking Up Is Hard To Do. Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $30. casinorama.com.

14

Get cultured. Culture Club hits the Casino Rama stage Aug. 6. The band is best known for Karma Chameleon, I’ll Tumble 4 Ya, Do You Really Want to Hurt Me. Showtime is 8 p.m. and tickets start at $50.

15

Feel the rhythm. Barrie Rhythmfest takes over downtown Barrie Aug. 7 and 8. This multicultural and interactive festival features entertainment, food and merchandise from around the world with opportunities to grab an instrument and join in. barrie.ca

16

Hear something saxy. Kenny G hits Casino Rama Aug. 8. The best-selling instrumentalist of the modern era will perform the bossa nova classics and newly written originals from his latest album Brazilian Nights. Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $40.

82 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

Swim, run and bike. The Barrie Triathlon is set for Aug. 9 at Centennial Beach. The event also includes a duathlon and a Kids of Steel event. If you don’t feel like taking part, there are a number of spots along the route to cheer on the athletes. barrietri.com

18

19

Remember Vaudeville. The Orillia Opera House presents the story of Vaudeville, from its early beginnings, on to entertaining the troops and through Vaudeville’s ultimate demise with the advent of movies. The Vaudvillians is on stage Aug. 13 to 29. Tickets start at $29. orilliaoperahouse.ca.

Sunny Days. Tickets are $45. orilliaoperahouse.ca.

22

Celebrate song. Tony Orlando hits Casino Rama Aug. 21. He is best known for Knock Three Times, Bless You and Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round The Ole Oak Tree. Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $15. casinorama.com.

23

Get ready to laugh. Comedian Jim Jefferies brings The Freedumb Tour to the Georgian Theatre Aug. 21. Jefferies has performed at the Just For Laugh’s Comedy Festival in Montreal and has appeared in is own HBO special. Tickets are $45. theatres.barrie.ca.

24

Paddle up! The 12th-annual Barrie Dragon Boat Festival hits Kempenfelt Bay and Heritage Park Aug. 21 and 22. Bring the family to watch the boat

20

Feel blue. Bill Engvall, of Blue Collar Comedy fame, returns to the Casino Rama stage Aug. 15.

Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $35. casinorama.com.

21

Have a sunny day. Lighthouse, one of Canada’s best-loved fusion-rock bands and driving forces of the 1970s pop machine returns hits the Orillia Opera House stage Aug. 19 at 7:30 p.m. The band is best known for One Fine Morning and

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THE PERRY BAND AUGUST 28 AT 9 P.M. CASINO RAMA races and check out cultural and commercial exhibits, children’s activities and much more.

The event is a fundraiser for the Barrie Public Library. barriedragonboatfestival.ca or 705-728-1010.

25

Get happy. The Happy Together Tour rolls into Casino Rama Aug. 22. For the first time, the tour will feature the music of six groups: The Turtles featuring Flo and Eddie, The Buckinghams, The Association, The Cowsills, The Grass Roots, and Mark Lindsay. Showtime is 9 p.m. and ticket start at $30. casinorama.com.

largest selling comedy-recording artist in history, a multiple Grammy Award nominee and best-selling author of over 26 books. He is widely known for his redneck jokes. Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $47. casinorama. com.

30

Remember Queen. Queen – It’s Kinda Magic recreates Queen’s 1986 World Tour concert, featuring over 20 of the band’s greatest hits such as We Will Rock You, Bohemian Rhapsody, We Are the Champions, Under Pressure and Fat-Bottomed Girls. Showtime is 8 p.m. and tickets are $60. theatres.barrie.ca.

Head to the country. The 161stannual Barrie Fair hits the Essa Agriplex, 75-5 10th Line, Thornton, Aug. 27 to 30. The fair features farm animals, horse shows, arts, crafts, music and a midway with rides and games. barriefair.ca or 705-7373670.

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Have a date night. The Barrie Film Festival presents Dinner and a Movie the third Thursday of each month. Enjoy a film at the Uptown Theater and a special menu offered by participating restaurants. barriefilmfestival.ca

28

See a family band. The Band Perry hits Casino Rama Aug. 28. The band is best known for Better Dig Two, Done, Postcards from Paris and If I Die Young. Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $45. casinorama.com.

29

Explore your inner redneck. Jeff Foxworthy makes a stop at Casino Rama Aug. 29. Foxworthy is the

Flagstone . Armour Stone . Retaining Walls Aggregates . Salt . Sand . Trees . Shrubs . Plants Flowers . Topsoil . Triple Mix . Sod . Mulch . Installs

Devour something savoury. Savour Simcoe, showcasing the finest chefs and food/drink produced in Simcoe County and area, takes over the Simcoe County Museum Aug. 30. simcoecountyfarmfresh.ca Roll in the isles. Comedian and movie star Kevin James makes his Casino Rama debut Sept. 3. James is an Emmy award-winning comedian, producer, co-writer, and star of the hit comedies The King of Queens, Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Zookeeper and the recently released Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. Showtime is 8 p.m. and tickets start at $55. casinorama.com.

33

Hear some sweet sounds. Paul Anka is on stage at Casino Rama Sept.

4 and 5. Anka is best known for his hits Put Your Head On My Shoulder, Diana and Lonely Boy. Showtime is 9 p.m. and tickets start at $50. casinorama.com.

Professional Service. Competitive Pricing.

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 83

travel|Scenic Tours

SCENIC TOURS

84 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

BY NOW, IT IS A WELL-KNOWN FACT THAT I LOVE ALL THINGS SHIPS AND SAILING

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BART CARD

I grew up, in Bermuda, spending my spare time on sailboats and ships. Over the past few years I’ve noticed change in the commercial cruise industry; an increase in the popularity of the luxury river cruising industry. This emerging market is offering a slower pace and a smaller ship than the large sea-faring cruise ships. Popular among seniors and families alike, it is undeniable that luxury river cruising is on the rise. This past April, after a long Ontario winter, I had the opportunity to sail on the maiden voyage of Scenic Cruises’ newest luxury river ship – the Scenic Jasper. My voyage on the Jasper would begin in Budapest, visiting historic river towns along the Danube, and would end in Vienna where the Jasper would be christened. »

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 85

travel|Scenic Tours

Ben took me to the local market, where I spent time exploring all of the food stalls, with their beautiful and creative ways of displaying the food.

86 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

I flew from Toronto to Budapest and spent the first day exploring this fantastic city that I hadn’t been to in more than 30 years. Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is one of the European Unions largest cities and is home to more than 1.7-million people.

Often cited as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Budapest has an abundance of World Heritage Sites including the river I would be sailing on, the Danube. Since I was in Budapest for such a short period of time, I decided to do an indepth tour and hire a local rickshaw driver Ben. Ben took me to the local market, where I spent time exploring all of the food stalls, with their beautiful and creative ways of displaying the food. Ben also took me to the parts of Budapest that are not commonly seen by tourists. We explored small alleyways, historical buildings and churches, all providing me perfect opportunities to capture the city on camera.

After a great day in Budapest I arrived at the Jasper and was offered a warm welcome from the captain and crew. Founded in 1986, Scenic Cruises has become a leading provider of travel experiences around the world. Owner and chairperson, Glen Moroney, began operating coach tours in his native Australia. Scenic Cruises have become a global name synonymous with luxury river cruising. Unlike other companies, Scenic owns rather than leases its ships. Because of this, the company has complete control over the design and works with the best European shipbuilders to deliver only the best ships.

In addition to unique designs, Scenic also offers a truly all-inclusive experience. Passengers have no need for their credit card while on board, unless they need a massage, haircut or to buy a souvenir.

The ship I was sailing on was no exception to the Scenic standard. The Jasper is a third-generation Scenic ship and offers an array of new and unique amenities including some of the largest suites on Europe’s rivers, a front panoramic deck that can be enclosed with all-weather glass, an expanded fine dining restaurant and an upgraded fitness centre and massage/hairdresser salon.

In addition, Scenic cruises also offer six unique dining options, tailor-made GPS guided tours for every guest and electric-assist bicycles. I have to admit that one of my favourite features, one I am always critiquing, was the coffee. »

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705-737-0522 • www.thefarmhouse.ca GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 87

travel|Scenic Tours

Ben also took me to the parts of Budapest that are not commonly seen by tourists.

We explored small alleyways, historical buildings and churches, all providing perfect opportunities to capture the city on camera.

88 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

It’s a GREAT WAY to

Being somewhat of a coffee buff I tend to judge most of my experiences by the coffee served. Safe to say that the coffee served was excellent and made more pleasurable by the fact that it was also served by the butler that served my cabin, wonderful to wake up to every morning. Every cabin has butler service.

The first evening the Cruise Director gave a port talk, outlining all of the activities planned for the coming days. After the talk I enjoyed an evening of Hungarian Folk music and dance before heading to my cabin for the night.

After a full day of sailing our first stop was in Dürnstein and then on to Melk. When arriving in port. For Scenic offers multiple options for day trips, for those who need transportation, Scenic provides their own luxury coaches which are waiting dockside on arrival at every port adding extra pleasure to sightseeing. While in Melk the options included a bike tour from Dürnstein to Melk, making stops at several local villages or lunch and a Wachau wine tasting including visiting the magnificent Benedictine Abbey which was built between 1702 and 1736 and sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town.

The next day we docked in Linz. After a quiet breakfast, I joined the group that was spending the day exploring the 13th Century town of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic. Located on the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was at one time a very important trade town. Modern day Cesky Krumloy is a small city in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic and is home to a castle of the same name. The city and castle have been around since the late 13th Century. The castle is unusually large for such a small city and boasts a large rococo garden and an impressive bridge overlooking the rock on which the castle has been built.

The city itself hosts a number of festivals and events each year, including the very popular Five-Pettalled Rose Festival and the International Music Festival Cesky Krumlov. After an amazing day I spend the evening at the gala dinner where the crew provided entertainment and the guests enjoyed the phenomenal food and entertainment.

The following day we arrived in Vienna, where we would spend the final two days of our voyage. The first day I decided to spend time quietly »

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Scenic truly offers a phenomenal cruise experience from the moment you step on the ship to the moment you depart.

90 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

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travel|Scenic Tours walking around and exploring this beautiful city.

I stopped and had a hot chocolate and pastry at the Café Hawelka – one of the best pastries I have ever had, and just enjoyed the sights and sounds of Vienna. After dinner on the ship, the guests headed out for an evening concert in the historic Arsenal, a former military complex built in the 1800s and still in use today for testing and research. The music provided a perfect ending to my quiet day.

The following day there were three tours offered; the first was to Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, the second was to the once home of Austria’s Imperial family, Schonbrunn Palace, and the third was to the Spanish Riding School to see the breathtaking Lipizzan horses. Being an avid horse lover, I opted for a visit to the world renowned Spanish Riding School. First named in 1572, the Spanish Riding School is a traditional school for Lipizzan horses and is a centre for classical dressage as well as a famous tourist attraction. In 2008 the School made history again by allowing the first woman to train as riders.

Our seats for the show were incredible and the horses were magnificent. I highly recommend a visit for anyone lucky enough to visit Vienna.

My final afternoon aboard the Jasper was spent at the christening of the ship. This was the first ship christening I had ever attended.

This was a very special occasion for the Jasper and I was thankful to have been a part of this celebration. In true ship christening fashion, a ceremonial bottle of champagne was broken over the bow in order to bring good fortune to the ship’s voyages. Afterward the guests, owner Glen Moroney and his wife, all celebrated with champagne and cake.

Overall my luxury river cruise on the Scenic Jasper was a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

There is no doubt that the luxury river cruise industry is quickly gaining in popularity and more than 1,300 team members worldwide, Scenic truly offers a phenomenal cruise experience from the moment you step on the ship to the moment you depart.

Bart Card is a food and travel writer.

905-251-1258 or bartcard@rogers.com www.scenictours.ca Being an avid horse lover, I visited the world renowned Spanish Riding School to see the breathtaking Lipizzan horses.

92 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

DINING GUIDE

RESTAURANTS - FOOD - ENTERTAINMENT DANNY’S FISH AND CHIPS We make the extra effort to hand-cut our chips and fillet our fish daily!

Our Fresh Alaskan Halibut and chips is hand sliced fresh, just minutes before it reaches your plate. Our English style fish and chips are made from an old secret recipe (thinly battered) and passed down through generations and served alongside our famous home-cut fries. Just one bite and you’ll be hooked!

We don‘t just claim to be the best, we prove it through honest workmanship and genuine caring. “Your Favourite Fish & Chip Restaurant” celebrating 40 years this September!

411 Huronia Road, Barrie | 705-721-8998

TOWN & COUNTRY STEAKHOUSE Located in the heart of downtown Barrie, the Town and Country Steakhouse has continued to bring a traditional steakhouse experience to residents and visitors for over 40 years.

From a delicious range of appetizers to our hand selected steaks and seafood or our famous Chateaubriand cooked tableside pared with a complementing wine, we have something to please every diner. We can accommodate private functions or meetings with WIFI and direct internet access including easily accessible free on-site parking.

76 Dunlop St. W. Barrie | 705.726.5241 | www.townandcountrysteakhouse.com

IL BUCO RISTORANTE Old world charm meets great tasting cuisine! Spectacular view of the lake!!

Relax and enjoy fine Italian Cuisine with a casual attitude. Enjoy vintage wine from our carefully selected wine list. Appetizers, Desserts, Italian, Mediterranean, Seafood, Steak, Tapas/small plates and Vegetarian.

31 Dunlop Street East, Downtown Barrie | 705.735.9595

KOHYANG HOUSE

KoHyang House is Barrie‘s First Korean Cuisine restaurant. Original Furusato owner Anna Kim is now at KoHyang House. It offers Korean cuisine as well as Japanese cuisine. It is located on Bayfield Street, just north of the Five Points. We recommend the Dolsot Bi Bim Bap, a dish of mixed vegetables and a choice of chicken, beef or tofu, served on a bed of rice. It is Korea‘s signature dish.

The restaurant has dishes from other parts of Asia as well. There are teriyaki and tempura choices and a sushi bar, along with bento box combinations.

Check us out on our website!

33 Bayfield Street, Barrie | 705.726.8989 | www.kohyanghouse.com GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 93

dining guide LIBERTY NORTH - LN TO GO

Liberty North, is more than just a deli for people who need to grab a quick meal.

While the business offers a fresh selection for lunch and dinner to go from Monday to Friday, LN to go also offers a catering service at your doorstep anytime.

Intimate private dinners – where a LN Executive Chef prepares the meal at your home – are becoming just as popular as the on-site service.

The Executive Chef can customize any meal for your guests.

Feeding a hungry crowd for special occasions like anniversaries or weddings is also not a problem, no matter where you live.

If you are pinched for time but still want fresh, spectacular food, call LN to go.

100 Caplan Ave, Barrie | 705.728.3877 | www.libertynorth.ca

THE FARMHOUSE The Farmhouse is a fun, fresh and family ready new restaurant, that is a must eat!

At the Farmhouse we use only sustainable fish and the freshest meats and vegetables.

We are animal lovers and tree huggers.

Open for Lunch & Dinner 7 Days BREAKFAST Now Open Sat & Sun 8:30 am Sunday Nights ROAST BEEF DINNER 2 sides with dessert for $22 HAPPY HOUR Everyday 4-6 Spectacular view of Kempenfelt Bay • Private rooms – Catering – Perfect for Weddings

268 Bradford St | 705-737-0522 | www.thefarmhouse.ca

C AND T CATERING We offer an extensive selection of menu options for both corporate and private functions from barbeques & weddings to corporate working lunches. We can confidently offer something for every taste, budget or occasion and we look forward to serving you. Owners Terry McNaughton and Chef Chris Buurs invite you to come and try their food at Scarpaccio’s Ristorante Bar & Grill ( 705-797-2507) or Wentworth’s Eatery Café ( 705-503-3287).

You can email your catering inquiries or bookings to : dining@scarpaccioristorante.com | www.scarpaccioristorante.com

THE NORTH RESTAURANT AND WEST EVENT CENTRE In 2012 The North moved into its existing larger two-storey Victorian building with private party rooms for catering and special events. For large scale catering Chef Marco has opened The West Event Centre, suitable for any event or corporate function for up to 250+ people. Still offering his signature dishes in banquet style menus, Marco and his team assure the highest quality of food, awesome presentation, and impeccable service. The West is ideal for baptisms, Christmas parties, Bar Mitzvahs, weddings, and any special occasion.

49 Mary Street, Barrie | 705.812.2192 | www.TheNorthRestaurant.com 146 Toronto Street, Barrie | 705.792.3411 | www.TheWestEventCentre.com 94 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

TARA AUTHENTIC INDIAN CUISINE Delighted to be considered Barrie’s finest, Chef Brothers Yar and Nur Mohammad have committed 25 years tantalizing the palates of their customers. Their culinary prowess makes Tara a most unique “palatal experience.

Open seven days-a-week the alluring aroma will bring you in.

Lunch Buffet available for $10.99.

128 Dunlop St. E. Downtown Barrie | 705.737.1821|

PAINTERS HALL

Barrie‘s best kept secret! Behind an unassuming doorway on Clapperton Street, just up from the five points in downtown Barrie, those in the know gather throughout the week at a little gem named Painters Hall Bistro.

A long hallway showcasing many of Barrie‘s best artists affords two options.

Candlelight mellows the refined rustic front dining room while the back lounge buzzes, offering a fantastic small plate menu and terrific wines by the glass or bottle from an unpretentious, approachable wine list. Stop by “The Hall” you will be glad you did, and so will we!

17 Clapperton St, | 705.797.8844 | | www.PaintersHall.ca

STICKY FINGERS BAR & GRILL Sticky Fingers is known for the best ribs and wings in town and we also have fantastic homemade pizza, pasta, burgers, pulled pork and more.

Stop in for lunch or dinner at either of our locations and enjoy live music every Friday & Saturday night at our Dunlop Street location.

Please check our website for our entertainment listings at: www.stickyfingers.ca

150 Dunlop Street W., Barrie | 705-721-8793 511 Bryne Drive, Barrie | 705-252-8793

PIE WOOD FIRED PIZZA PIE ... Wood Fired Pizza is “real food done well”. Featured on The Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here” so you know you’re in for some good eats. The open kitchen area is where the hand-spun pizzas take shape, creating tasty crusts. Walk in the frontdoor and you will find the wood burning oven, cooking your made to order pizza in a mere 90 seconds!

Barrie 34 Commerce Park Drive | 705.725.9663 11 Victoria Street | 705.728.7952

Collingwood 499 First St. 705.293.3900 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 95

Oh,what a night

O

n June 11, following the groundbreaking for Meridian Place, 150 people gathered for Curb Appeal – an outdoor dining experience like no other.

Five chefs, five courses, and one amazing evening unfolds as friends, colleagues and various members of the community, and supporters of Downtown Barrie sit down to enjoy this unforgettable meal. The Farmhouse, Kensington Burger Bar, Groovy Tuesdays Bistro, The North and Painter’s Hall each prepared a dish, complete with wine pairing. When you arrive, you grab a beer from Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery or a glass of wine from Canvas and Cabernet. Since there is no assigned seating, you simply pull up a chair with your guest and get ready to spend the evening with people who you may not know but will share a few laughs, broaden your horizons, or look forward to meeting again at the next Curb Appeal.

The weather was perfect with only a light sprinkle of rain for a few minutes, but that is just part of the fun. Catherine, Jason, Glen, John, Jeff, Craig, Jodi, Mike, Val, Steve, Kim, Jessie, Jim, Laura, Andrea and I, along with another 100 people, had the pleasure of enjoying a fantastic night together. Organizer Craig Stevens told me these events are so successful there is a waiting list for tickets. Watch for the next one in September where rumour has it they are planning a Tuscan theme. Contact participating restaurants to get your tickets early or visit curbappeal.downtownbarrie.ca.

96 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 ■

MENU Kenzington Burger Bar Vietnamese braised pork belly slider with mango papaya salad.

The Farmhouse Beetroot cured organic salmon with citrus horseradish and pickled fennel.

Groovy Tuesdays Blueberry ravioli, smoked chicken and ricotta filling, basil and mint pesto (done with sunflower seeds).

The North Rack of lamb with lobster potato cake and first-of-the-season sweet corn succotash, pesto jus.

Painters Hall Decadent chocolate cake, with espresso, chocolate ganache, shaved white chocolate, strawberry chantilly cream topped with caramel sauce.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 97

Lake Side in the crowd in the crowd

8th Annual Gilda’s Club Lakeside Party On June 7th, the community gathered for an afternoon of music, fine food and drink featuring a special acoustic performance by Canadian musicians, The Trews, at a stunning new waterfront property in Oro Medonte.

PHOTOS BY LOUISE FERGUSON 1. The Trews: Sean Dalton, Jeff Heisholt, Colin MacDonald, Jack Syperek and John-Angus MacDonald 1.

2.

2. Zeeshan Liaqat, Lisa Cimino and Paula McFadden (all from Gilda's Club Simcoe Muskoka)

3.

3. Karl Barnhart, Susan Haiplik and Bruce McCartney 4. Krista Richards and Tara-Dawn Winstone 5. Alicia Wilson and Jessica Makin 6. Mike Stollery and Lesley Stollery 4.

5.

6.

7. Tiffany Little, Adam Little, Tanya Drake and John Drake

7.

8. Dave Beardsall, Anne Beardsall, Veronica Bell and Dean Bell 9. Lesley Stollery, France Tremblay, Adrielle Tremblay and Gilbert Paquette 10. David Rolfe, Clowie Rolfe, Frances Skelton and Susan Long 9.

8.

11. Hudson Leavens and Deborah Loosemore, Executive Director of Gilda's Club Simcoe Muskoka

10.

12. 13.

12. Jimmy Richards and Stella Gan 13. Frank Raco, Andrea Raco and Natalina Raco (Gilda's Club Members and Honourary Guests)

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14. Mike McCarthy, Margie McCarthy, Helen Stewart, Chris Stewart, Greg Stewart and Deb Keep

14.

15. Mike Blois, Becky Fletcher, Nadene Milnes and Ryan Milnes 16. Bernie Still, Heather Still, Steve Periard, Chris Gariepy and Deb Gariepy 15.

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16.

18.

17. Julie Lorriman, Andrew Lorriman, Jennifer Lehman and Jeff Lehman 18. Alanna Crawford and Colton Hewson 19. Bob Gilroy, Joan Gilroy, Dwight Hesson and Beth Hesson 20. Howie Nichol and Mandi Nichol

20.

19.

21. Mary Lynn West-Moynes, Graham Fraser, Susan Fraser, Mike Stollery, Lesley Stollery and Graydon Oldfield

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22. Elise Allain and Kim Harrison 23. Grant Gibbons and Corrina Gibbons 24. Mary Lynn West-Moynes, Jeff Lehman and Chris Gariepy 25. Darlene Newnham and Beatrice Seguin 22.

23.

24.

98 | GoodLife Barrie Edition - July August 2015 â–

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