MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
Contents Magazine - Vol. 1 No. 1 Summer 2017
7 Vacation Bound! 10 Happy Birthday Canada!
As Canadians celebrate 150 years as a nation we take a look back at some of our history throughout the decades.
Whether you are heading off on a cross-country excursion or not even crossing a provincial border, you need to prepare carefully and make sure your home, your family and your finances are ready for the trip.
22 Healthly Living
Several studies have looked into the physical and mental health benefits of regular running with encouraging results.
12 Listen Up! If kids think you are
listening when they talk, they will place more trust in you and be more likely to disclose things they otherwise might not.
Also Inside:
OpeningLines.................... 6 Tech................................ 14 Food & Nutrition............ 20 Money............................ 22 Travel.............................. 30
28 Whats New in RVs
Travel trailers are back in a big way with more conventional trailer offerings than in the past 10 years. We look at what`s new in all classes. GRiP Magazine is published twice yearly by RPM Media Inc. Mailing Address: 2460 Kingsway Ave, Port Coqutilam, BC, Canada V3C 1T4 Canada Post Mailing Agreement #40050183
MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
GRiPOpeningLines
The Many Benefits of Watermelon Watermelon could very well be the favourit fruit of the summer. Its high water content keeps your body hydrated and the high nutrient content confers many benefits. Here are some we bet you didn`t know of the ways watermelon helps your health. It’s a Good Source of Hydration Watermelon is 92 percent water, making it easier to meet your daily water intake requirement. In contrast, its sugar content is only 6 percent, so it’s a healthy alternative to most fruit juices, and a good thirst-quencher during summer. It’s a Good Source of Vitamins Watermelon is packed with vitamin A -- 569 IU (International Units) per 100 g -- which aids in sebum production, which moisturizes and waterproofs your skin. It also contains vitamin C -- 8 mg per 100 g -- which increases collagen production, aiding in the healing of most wounds and decreasing the likelihood of infection and irritation. It can Help Control Blood Pressure Stressful situations cause increased blood pressure. Research indicates that watermelon extracts can help decrease blood pressure in the middle-aged, especially if you’re overweight or
suffer from pre-hypertension. It also improves arterial function, which improves your heart health. It’s Low in Calories For every 100 g of watermelon, you only consume 30 calories. It’s easy to fill up on the fruit without worrying about high calorie content. Watermelon has many benefits, both for weight loss and general health maintenance. It’s easy to come by during the summer months, and it’s more refreshing and healthier than most commercial fruit juices.
Labatt 150 hits shelves ahead of Canada’s big celebration
Fans of Labatt 50 are in for a surprise when they go to purchase their favourite alcoholic beverage between now and Canada Day. The beer has been rebranded ‘Labatt 150’ in recognition of Canada’s 150th birthday this year. According to Labatt’s Director of Marketing, Andrew Oosterhuis, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau actually beat them to the punch. “He released a photo of Labatt 150, not knowing that we were actually planning on releasing this as a rebranded product. So he helped start the conversation early.” Oosterhuis went on to describe the experience of seeing the prime minister make reference to the iconic beer. “It was a special moment as a marketer when the leader of our country is recognizing his favourite brand and pitching an idea that we already had in the pipeline, so we look forward to sending him the actual produced product as a gift.” The brand was first launched in 1950 by John and Hugh Labatt – grandsons of founder John K. Labatt. It was named Anniversary Ale and was created to denote the anniversary of the partnership of the pair. It was later renamed Labatt 50. The beer has been shipped to stores nationwide and will be available in six and 15-packs of 355 ml cans, and 24-packs of 473 ml cans. They’ll be available throughout the summer in Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, British Columbia, Alberta, and Newfoundland.
MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
Book Review
The Old Spice Guy Online Marketing Campaign:
Secrets to the Social Media Success Story
How Dogs Love Us: A Neuroscientist and His Adopted Dog Decode the Canine Brain
By Maggie Park How Dogs Love Us: A Neuroscientist and His Adopted Dog Decode the Canine Brain, Emory University Neuroscientist, Gregory Berns, uses layman’s language to describe a study of functional MRIs of canine brains, the first study of its kind. The study is initially driven by the grief caused by the loss of Berns’ longtime canine companion, Newton. After the adoption of a new puppy, one who is nothing like Newton, Berns begins to wonder about the inner workings of the canine brain. Anyone who has adopted an energetic new puppy that seems nothing like the imminently trained, longtime companion we expect has had questions. Do dogs really love us? Or do they actually love the treats and scratches we give them? InHow Dogs Love Us, this question prompts hours of training and, eventually, some testing. The study is unorthodox, so the book includes much discussion about the bureaucratic gymnastics involved in gaining permission to perform the scans. It turns out that while the dog brain differs from human brains, there are enough similarities to conclude that dogs know their family. While even functional MRIs cannot quantify love, the study does conclude that dogs and humans are ancient companions for reasons other than table scraps and hunting skills.
The advertising department at Old Spice has earned its stripes with the online hit, the Old Spice Guy. How did they successfully use social media to their advantage when the world of online marketing is constantly changing? First it was AIM, then it was Myspace, now it’s Facebook and Twitter. Even TiVo has made advertisers think twice about how they market their products to consumers who can just fast forward through their million dollar ads. YouTube has even been going through legal battles over intellectual property and copyright infringement, as millions of daily viewers watch ad-free video clips and music videos. So what did Old Spice do right? YouTube Mustafa is a former football player who plays the Old Spice Guy, “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like.” Besides being very attractive and ripped, he has a buttery voice that makes women melt. His sex appeal certainly attracted a huge online following. The “Old Spice Guy” video clips on YouTube has over 50 million all time views. Toyota tried a similar approach earlier, posting witty commercials on the popular media website, but did not encounter the same overwhelming response. Interactive Social Media The Old Spice Guy isn’t just a pretty face. When people comment on the Old Spice Guy’s YouTube videos, he responds to them. This interactive approach is cutting edge for traditional marketing techniques. He also responds to Yahoo Answers, and Twitter. In an interview with The Age, Isaiah Mustafa claims, “It’s a really old brand and they’ve done a fabulous job of updating it, making it relevant to a younger market in a cute and interesting way.” A-List Success Not only has the Old Spice Guy utilized popular forms of social media, he also enlists the unofficial famous sponsors. Since 2007, when Facebook launched Facebook Ads, no advertising campaign has ever reached the level of marketing success that the Old Spice Guy has. Another method has been uploading video responses to A-list celebrities like Ellen Degeneres and Perez Hilton. The Old Spice marketing team used already famous celebrities to their advantage without even paying endorsement or sponsorship fees. The Old Spice Guy campaign is a great example of how a well-known company can use social media as a powerful marketing tool. With a little creativity, you too can captivate an online audience using free tools like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. The key is to keep things interactive, and your business could get unprecedented exposure. MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
Vacation Bound! 10 Tips to make your holiday safe and enjoyable! by Ben Conrad
The family vacation is an annual right of passage and a great deal of fun. Whether you are heading off on a cross-country excursion or not even crossing a provincial border, you need to prepare carefully and make sure your home, your family and your finances are ready for the trip. The right preparation now can help you avoid lots of problems later on. No matter where you are off to, here are 10 things you must do before you pack your bags and pull out of the driveway.
1. Stop the mail, or ask a trusted friend to pick it up for you. An overflowing mailbox is a sure sign that no one is at home, and it’s a big welcome sign for would-be burglars.
2. Make advance payments on your credit cards, utilities and other routine bills. If your vacation will coincide with the due dates on your bills, go ahead and pay them now. It will give you one less thing to worry about when you get home.
3. Let your credit card issuers know you are going on vacation. A sudden change in location or spending patterns could trigger fraud-protection services, and lock you out of your credit card. Letting the issuers in on your vacation plans will help you avoid such unpleasant scenarios.
4. Make sure your cell service will follow you. If you will be traveling outside the United States, make sure your cellular carrier can provide service for your chosen destination. You may need to buy an international plan to get service and avoid costly overages.
5. Download walking and driving maps for your destination. Even if you plan to rely on GPS and traffic apps, having hard copy maps will be a big help. If you plan to use public transportation to get around, download a basic map of the system, and be sure to download their smartphone app as well. continued on next page MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
continued from previous page 6. Set your house lights and TV on timers. You want your house to look as occupied as possible, and timers can create the illusion that someone is at home. Look for systems that turn the lights on and off at random times; these are more likely to fool a would-be burglar.
7. Take extra batteries and charging cords. You will need lots of battery power for your cameras and other devices, as well as a spare charging cable or two. It can be difficult to find these items on the road, so it pays to have a few spares.
8. Plan your cash flow. You will need various forms of money for your trip, so plan how you will get cash, where you can use your ATM or debit card and which credit cards you will use to pay for hotel rooms and other essentials. Create a vacation budget to manage your cash flow, but build in flexibility to account for unexpected expenses and impulse buys.
9. Check the weather. You do not want a last minute surprise to ruin your vacation fun, so check the weather forecast before you leave and make sure you add the destination to your favorite weather app.
10. Search for your favorite hobbies and activities. Whether you are an avid golfer or a dedicated hiker, indulging in your favorite hobbies can make vacation time even more fun.
Vacation time is right around the corner, and now is the time to make your plans. Whether you are planning a big summer road trip with the kids or flying solo to your favorite overseas destination, the 10 preparation tips listed above can protect your home, eliminate vacation hassles and make managing your money easier.
MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
Getting Ready for Summer Driving u and your car summer road trip ready?
by Jackie Anderson
roads. By doing this you are guaranteeing a better, safer wear and use of your tires. Don’t forget to check your tire pressure, including the spare! Wiper Blades – Make sure your wiper blades are in good shape. Your car can get pretty dirty and dusty and the bug level increases greatly, so having a good wipers to clean those windows is important. You don’t want to push the dirt around, you want to clean it off! Lights – make sure all your lights are working! Air Conditioning and Heating – Definitely make sure these are working properly. Having the air conditioning break down in hot weather is no fun! Check your Brakes, Belts and Hoses – You don’t want any surprises! Some Non-Maintenance items to remember Before You Leave: -Make sure your trunk has a jack, lug wrench, and other tools you’ll need to change a tire. -Pack a vehicle tool kit and additional emergency items including a flashlight with extra batteries, emergency reflectors and sunglasses. -Vehicle First Aid kit.
Are you and your car summer road trip ready? The weather has been less than stellar this year, and the rain seems to be a little relentless, but summer WILL come, and it will be here before we know it. That also means time off and summer road trips! So, what should we do to get our vehicles ready for some fun summer cruising and get away from home? Vehicle Preventive Maintenance: Fluids - Make sure all your cars fluids are topped up and there are no leaks. This includes your engine oil, transmission, brakes, power steering, coolant and a summer washer fluid (for the extra bugs). Make sure you have plenty of water in the car - to drink as well. It can get hot and it’s important to stay hydrated! Tires - Please make sure the winters have been swapped for your Summer or All Seasons! The winter tires are meant for cold, wet and icy conditions. The summer ones are for the warmer weather and hotter
-Carry some essential road trip items for the car and keep all together in a box or bag. ie. TP, paper towel, moist wipes, hand sanitizer, lotion and sunscreen, lip balm, plastic bags, dental floss, lens cloth. -Carry a spare set of keys. -Make sure you have a copy of your driver’s license, vehicle registration, plus auto and medical insurance info. -Depending on where you might be driving, carrying extra gas would be helpful. -Plan your route, and leave a copy of your itinerary with a relative or neighbor. -Pack food, water, and fun activities for the car. -Phone charger. MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
By the Numbers...
As we celebrate the 150th Birthday of this great country we take a look back through the decades at some of the significant events since confederation.
1937
1867 Confederation. Britain’s North
Air Canada is founded & passenger flights begin with roundtrip from Seattle, WA to Vancouver, BC. $14.20.
American colonies are united by means of the BNA act to become the Dominion of Canada. Sir John A. Macdonald is Canada’s first Prime Minister. Ottawa becomes Capital of the Dominion.
1947
Dominion of Newfoundland (became a province in 1949) switches to driving on the right hand side of the road from the left.
1877
The provincial legislature creates the University of Manitoba, One of the oldest University’s in Western Canada. Granted its first degree in 1880 .
1957 Canadian Parliament proclaims
Thanksgiving to be observed on the second Monday in October from its original November date.
1887
The first provincial Premiers conference takes place in Quebec City.
1897 The Klondike Gold Rush is fully under way.
1967 Expo ’67 opens in Montreal with 1917 Income tax is introduced as a “temporary” wartime measure, which of course still exists today!
1927 The Old Age Pension Act is introduced.
1907
Jasper Forest Park was established, granted “National Park” status in 1930. First bottle of “Canada Dry Ginger Ale is patented and bottled. 10
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a live broadcast in color via satellite to an estimated 700 million viewers.
Canadiana Facts 1884-Marcellus Gilmore Edson of Montreal was the first person to patent modern peanut butter. 1891-James Naismith, a Canadian-American physical educator, physician, chaplain, sports coach and innovator. Invents the game of basketball at age 30.
1977
All Canadian road signs are converted to metric units.
1919 - The government owned Canadian National Railway is formed out of a number of failed private rail corporations.
1987 The one dollar bill is replaced by
1952-Hockey Night in Canada begins airing on Saturday nights on CBC Television.
1997 A 13km bridge connecting PEI
1964-A new Canadian flag, white background with the red maple leaf and two red bars, gets the approval of Parliament. Also distribution of the Canadian social insurance card begins.
a one dollar coin called the “loonie” for the bird that is depicted on it.
to the mainland is opened. Known by locals as “Fixed Link” it is officially named Confederation Bridge.
1969-While working for the Westin Hotel chain in Calgary, Walter Chell was asked to develop an original drink to celebrate the opening of a new Italian restaurant. The Caesar was born. 1979-The “blue box” recycle program is launched in Kitchener, ON. Which shortly thereafter spreads across to all provinces. 1970-The Vancouver Canucks join the National Hockey League. 1980-Terry Fox begins the Marathon of Hope. He raised over 24 million dollars for cancer research before his passing just one year later. 1982-Constitution Act, a landmark in Canadian history. It enshrined the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in the Constitution.
2007
Census data collected the previous year puts Canada’s population at 31,612,897. 10 years later …it is 35,151,728.
2017 253 work days, 52 Saturdays, 53
1985-Toronto-born rocker Neil Young joins Willie Nelson and John Mellencamp in the First Farm Aid concert. 1992-Roberta Bodar is Canada’s first female astronaut in orbit. 1996-Canada’s new $2 coin, dubbed the “toonie” is introduced.
Sundays and 9 public holidays…the biggest day being JULY 1st.
2005-Same sex marriage becomes legal in Canada.
We wish every Canadian a very Happy 150th Birthday!!
2010-Canada was the first host nation to win the gold medal count at a Winter Olympics since Norway at the 1952 Winter Olympics MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
11
How to Listen to Your Kids The most effective parents are parents who listen – really listen – to their kids. Children who believe their parents listen tend to have a stronger bond and an overall close relationship. If they think you listen when they talk, your kids will place more trust in you and be more likely to disclose things they otherwise might not. When you listen to children, it conveys the fact that they are inherently valuable, important people. They develop a healthy sense of selfworth and confidence. What really matters to kids is not that you listen with rapt attention 100 percent of the time, but that you usually listen; that they can count on you to listen when it matters, and especially when it matters most. Try these techniques and see if they improve your ability to listen – and to hear what your kids are really saying.
Ask Questions When you ask someone a question it conveys interest. When people see that others are interested in them it reinforces the idea that they are worthy, valuable people. Kids know if someone asks them a question it signals interest. It will also help your child recognize you really are listening. Additionally, if you ask questions you will learn more about that child. Gently probing with questions will support the development of problem solving skills. Try not to lead them or hand them the answer. Just ask the questions you would ask yourself: What do you think you should do? What is the right thing to do? If I act in X manner what will the likely outcome be? After asking the question, stay quiet and just listen. 12
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by Anthony Lewis
Repeat what you think you heard There are times when people may appear attentive but fail to fully understand what is being said. For any number of reasons messages get skewed. Maybe through poor delivery, or the listener not paying close attention, what is said, is not what is heard. By repeating what you think your kid meant you will gain two benefits: First and foremost, you make it clear to him or her that you want to understand and that you care. Secondly, no misunderstanding can exist if you do so. (Sometimes parents need to decipher messages that kids obscure with stuff like plain English. By practicing this tip there’s no chance of the underlying message being obscured by pesky things like words.) If your child says she hates her brother because he won’t share the video game controller, perhaps she meant her feelings are hurt or she is frustrated because she can’t have what she wants right away. Just say something like, “it sounds like you are telling me that you’re frustrated because your brother won’t share when you think he should.” She may tell you no, she is mad because her brother is selfish and greedy. That’s okay; you will have made a point while getting more information.
Don’t formulate responses while they are talking An important skill of any good listener, whether listening to an adult, teenager, or a younger child, is to listen without preplanning what to say. Many people only hear part of what the other is saying because they are thinking of their response. Rather than deciding what to say while your child is talking, just listen – attentively. Don’t try to get your prematurely formulated 2 cents in. Just listen! You can decide what to say when she is finished. It registers with kids when you, as their parent, fully and carefully listen to their thoughts. Perhaps they are used to you interjecting an idea, opinion, or suggestion before they have finished. This can be frustrating to anyone, especially a child.
Sometimes the best way to facilitate this is to let them ruminate. Let them stumble upon their own solutions. Their solutions may not be the same as yours, and that’s fine. They will develop a problem solving skill-set and acquire confidence in those skills. When a child says something and you show interest, yet without speaking you just look at them with expectation, they will continue. That’s human nature too. Let them talk, and talk, and talk and talk. They will if you let them. Asking is always good, but telling isn’t.
Support whatever they are feeling, regardless of how you see it Is your kid hurt for a trivial reason? Maybe it’s even a silly reason. It doesn’t matter; he or she is still hurt. For children, any reason behind their frustration is a sound reason – “anybody would feel the same” and “you just don’t understand” – so leave logic out of it. This is especially true for younger kids. Why not offer proof that things aren’t really all that bad? Because no matter what you say, things really are that bad to them. How do you support without offering a solution? Just tell them you get it. When it’s your turn to talk, try saying something like, “wow that must hurt,” or, “yeah, I see why you’re feeling that way.” Then try offering an example of a similar situation you encountered as a young person. It’s about empathy, nothing more.
“What really matters to
kids is not that you listen with rapt attention 100
percent of the time, but
Resist the temptation to express your opinion It’s human nature to want to offer good advice, especially if you know the answer. But don’t do it. Let them talk without interruption, distraction, or direction. They can and will learn to sort through their problems if you give them a chance. All kids, regardless of age, can develop problem solving skills.
that you usually listen; that they can count on you to listen when it matters”
Practice Perhaps the most important part of learning to listen well is to practice. As with any skill, practice leads to improvement over time. Listening is no different than any other habit. The more you practice the better you get at it. Listening to kids is one of those crucial things all parents should want to do well. It strengthens the parent-child relationship. It enhances kids’ confidence and it reinforces their intrinsic sense of self-worth. Parents should strive to be good listeners. If your kids ever say, “you never listen to me,” maybe you can do better. Listening is for too important to take for granted; it can make or break any relationship. If you believe you’re a good listener but think you can do better, you probably can. It just takes desire to improve, a little information, and some practice. MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
13
GRiPTechnology
by Ben Conrad
Choosing the Best Smartwatch for Your Needs and Lifestyle If you are a technology enthusiast and fashion fan, a smartwatch is an excellent addition to your wardrobe. These handy devices can do everything from check your email to monitor your heartbeat, and once you put one on you will wonder how you ever got along without it. The problem is that there are so many smartwatches on the market it is often difficult to choose the right one. Even worse, these devices are far from cheap, so buying the wrong smartwatch could turn out to be a costly mistake. The Apple Watch may be the most well known smartwatch out there, but it is far from the only one. There are some excellent Android-based smartphones on the market as well, so you can adorn your wrist no matter what kind of phone you carry in your pocket. Here are some practical tips for choosing the perfect smartwatch. Think about the kind of smartphone you own. If you love your iPhone, chances are an Apple Watch will be the best choice. If you can't live without your Samsung Galaxy, an Android-based smartwatch is the obvious choice. Make sure the smartwatch you are considering is compatible with your current phone. No matter how sophisticated the device, the smartwatch is designed to work in conjunction with your smartphone, so compatibility will be key. Look for a design that fits your taste and lifestyle. There are some elegant and stylish smartwatches on the market, so you do not have to settle for one that is large and clunky. Review the battery life ratings for the smartwatches on your shopping list. Your smartwatch is only as good as the battery that powers it. When that battery runs out of juice, all the fancy features in the world will not make a bit of difference. Check out the capabilities of the smartwatch you are considering. Some basic smartwatches are designed mainly for checking email and retrieving text messages, while others can also monitor your heart rate, keep track of your health and do a host of other things. Put your hands on the smartwatch and see how easy (or hard) it is to use. There is nothing wrong with shopping online and comparing prices, but there is no substitute for handling the watch and examining its features in person. Check the water resistance of the various smartwatches on the market, especially if you like to swim or plan to go diving with it. Some smartwatches are surprisingly water resistant, while others can break down quickly if they get wet. Review the online reviews and ratings. The opinions of other smartwatch owners can be very valuable as you shop. Choose a smartwatch that meets your budget. The prices of these tech devices vary widely, so you should be able to find one no matter how much or how little you have to spend. Smartwatches are among the most popular tech devices on the market today, and their target audience has stretched far beyond the initial early adopters. If you are thinking about adding a smartwatch to your own wrist, the tips above can help you get started. 14
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
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GRiPFood&Nutrition GRiPHealthlyLiving
by Charlie Betley
The Powerful Health Benefits of Running Running has become an increasingly popular form of exercise in recent years, with people of all ages looking for ways to get healthy and stay in shape. Running provides a simple, free and effective way to burn fat, tone the body and keep active. Several studies have looked into the physical and mental health benefits of regular running, with encouraging results for those looking to improve their longterm health and well-being. Here are five powerful health benefits of running. Stronger Bones Regular running increases bone mass and strengthens the bones, helping to prevent age-related bone loss and degenerative conditions, such as osteoporosis. While many people believe that running can damage the knees and other joints, studies have shown that running or jogging for just 10 minutes a day can actually help to strengthen the knees. Running outdoors also increases exposure to sunlight, which is needed for the production of vitamin D, an important nutrient for healthy bones.
Mental Agility Running has been shown to improve brain function and has a positive impact on memory, concentration and other cognitive abilities. Studies have found 18
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that vigorous exercise can increase mental agility and improve strategic thinking, particularly when combined with fresh air and exposure to sunlight. Going for a quick run in the morning is a great way to clear your mind, relieve stress and increase your focus for the day ahead. Regular exercise can also help to prevent age-related problems with the brain, such as poor memory, reduced thinking abilities and even dementia. Lift Depression Exercise has long been known to help prevent and reduce the symptoms of depression, chronic stress, anxiety and other mental health problems. Running is especially useful for those experiencing depression and low mood, as vigorous exercise releases endorphins and other
feel-good chemicals that help to boost your mood and lift depression. Running also helps to get rid of excess adrenaline and stress hormones that are released during periods of anxiety and stress. Cancer Protection Studies have shown a link between running and the prevention of some types of cancer. Running, jogging or fast walking for at least 10 minutes a day was shown to reduce the risk of colon, breast, prostate, endometrial, lung and some other types of cancer. Exercise, nutrition and relaxation are all key factors in maintaining a healthy immune system and helping to prevent disease, including cancer. In addition, regular exercise can help to reduce the side-effects of some medications used in the treatment of cancer.
Anti-Aging Running has an anti-aging affect on the body, helping to reduce the risk of many age-related problems, such as arthritis, bone fractures, mental decline and cardiovascular disease. One study found that running can also increase blood flow to the ears, resulting in improved hearing and a reduction in age-related hearing loss. Studies have also suggested that running or walking every day can add years to your life. Running is a great way to stay in shape, and it provides a wide range of other health benefits. These include stronger bones, greater mental agility, anti-depressant action, cancer protection and anti-aging benefits. Running for at least 10 minutes every day could also increase your life expectancy.
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GRiPFood&Nutritionn
by Jen Bergeron
onlyanapron.com
Greek Chicken Kabobs with Veggies Grilling season is upon us! If you haven’t already, it’s time to clean off your barbecue and get cooking outside. If you’re looking for a simple, delicious and healthy summer dinner, try these Greek chicken kabobs with veggies. Spend your next sunny evening with a cold glass of wine grilling up these kabobs for dinner, you won’t be disappointed.
Total Time: 1 hr. 45 mins. Servings: 4 Ingredients:
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 4 cloves of garlic minced 1 tbs dried oregano juice of half a lemon salt and pepper to taste 1 zucchini 1/2 red onion half pint of cherry tomatoes
Directions:
Cut the chicken in bite sized pieces to put on the skewers, approximately 1-2 inches. Place them in a bowl with the 20
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minced garlic, lemon juice and oregano. Pop them in the fridge to marinate for about an hour. In the meantime you can cut up the veggies. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise then slice into 1 inch thick slices. Cut up the onion into similar sized pieces. These three veggies all seem to cook in relatively the same amount of time when cut to the same size. Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternate the meat and veggies on
the skewers and set aside (if you use wooden skewers you should soak them in water prior to putting the meat and veggies on them, so they won’t catch on fire on the grill). Season the skewers with salt and pepper. Depending on how big your chicken breasts were and how many veggies you have this will make about 6 skewers. Grill the kabobs for 10-12 minutes turning occasionally or until the chicken is completely cooked through.
Blood Orange Mojitos For many of us Mojitos are the drink of choice in the summer. Nothing beats that lime and mint combo on a hot day. They are also made with blackberry, blueberry and strawberry...but blood orange mojitos? If you’ve never made a drink like this before you need to make this one asap. They are probably some of the best homemade cocktails you’ll ever make!
Total Time: 5 minutes Servings: 2 Ingredients:
1/2 a lime 1-2 tbs sugar handful of mint leaves (about 12) 1 blood orange 2 1/2 shots of white rum club soda
Greek Salad with Chickpeas This salad is healthy, fresh and delicious. Throw some chicken on the grill and by the time the chicken is cooked you’ll be done making this salad and have an awesome dinner on the table.
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 generous sides
Ingredients:
Directions:
1/2 long English cucumber chopped 1 tomato chopped (about 1 cup) 1/2 can chickpeas rinsed and drained 3 tbs red onion finely chopped 2 oz feta crumbled (about 1/2 cup) 3 tsp dried oregano 2 tbs olive oil 1 tsp fresh lemon juice 1/2 tsp salt
Squeeze the juice of half a lime into a cocktail shaker. Add the sugar and the mint leaves and then muddle it all up to dissolve the sugar.
Add the white rum, a handful of ice and shake it all up! Divide the shaker between two glasses with ice and top them up with club soda. Garnish with slice of blood orange and serve!
Prepare all the ingredients and combine in a bowl. And you’re done! You can go ahead and serve it right away but it can sit in the fridge for a couple of hours if you need to make it ahead of time.
Total Time: 20 minutes of active time plus waiting and chilling time Servings: 1 cup
Cut one slice off the blood orange (after you cut off the very edge piece) to use for a garnish. Squeeze the juice of the blood orange into the cocktail shaker. It’s helpful to cut it up into a couple of pieces to make sure you can get all of the juice.
Directions:
Directions:
Tzatziki Ingredients:
1/2 of a long english cucumber, lightly peeled and seeded 1/2 cup greek yogurt 1/4 cup sour cream 1 tsp minced garlic 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp fresh lemon juice a pinch of minced fresh dill
Shred the cucumber with a cheese grater. Place the shredded cucumber in a fine sieve and sprinkle it with salt. Place the sieve over a bowl so the bottom of the bowl isn’t touching the the bottom of the sieve and leave it for about an hour, stirring it around occasionally. This will allow the excess water to drain out of the cucumber so your tzatziki won’t be watery. After the it has drained, combine the cucumber with the remaining ingredients. Refrigerate 2-3 hours before serving to allow the flavours to blend. MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
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GRiPMoney
by PAM PIKKERT
Make the Right Moves Before Refinancing Your Mortgage A lot can change in a year when it comes to mortgages. These changes can provide great opportunities for mortgagees to refinance their mortgage at the time of renewal in order to save money. Unfortunately, most people are under the impression that once they sign on the dotted line they are locked into their mortgage agreement for the specified term. One study found that a staggering 70% of people simply renew their mortgage every year without even looking into other options! Refinancing can give you the leverage to make your mortgage more affordable. Here are 5 tips to help you prepare for your mortgage renewal and save thousands of dollars! 1. Plan in Advance: Mortgage renewals are mailed out months before the renewal date. This gives you plenty of time to shop around for the best rate. Many mortgage professionals recommend a 46 month window to negotiate because that’s how long a lender may guarantee a discounted rate. By planning ahead you could find yourself a rate significantly lower with another lender or have a nicely discounted rate to fall back on. 2. Do Your Research: Mortgage research isn’t a one-time process you perform when buying you first home, it’s a topic you should revisit each year. The reason for ongoing research relates to the changes that occur in the marketplace. It is important to keep up-to-date with mortgage trends so you don’t get swindled into a higher rate than you deserve. The key thing to avoid when shopping for a new rate is signing with a bank’s posted rate. These rates are usually the highest the bank charges and all that extra interest will accumulate quickly, adding thousands to your mortgage total. Take the time and know what trends are doing so you can recognize a good rate when it comes along. 22
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3. Don’t Avoid the Switch: Some mortgagees are scared to switch lenders because of hidden fees and the paperwork that may be involved with the process. If you do your research and start early enough there is no reason to avoid switching your mortgage lender. When you make a switch at renewal time there is usually no monetary penalty. Switching allows you to take advantage of lower rates and save you money, so take the plunge if you find a better deal with a different lender! 4. Negotiate on Everything: Most people only negotiate the interest rate when they’re applying for or renewing a mortgage, but all variables are open to discussion! Make sure you know the importance of the amortization period, fixed versus variable rates, and payment schedule flexibility so your negotiation power is up to its full potential. All these variables can help reduce your payments, interest rate, and overall payment period. 5. Work with a Professional: Some mortgagees find all this information rather overwhelming and some simply don’t have the time to do the necessary research. If you find yourself fitting into one of these two categories then work with a mortgage professional. These brokers work for you and will handle all the shopping and negotiations required to make your mortgage more manageable. And the best part is there is no charge for this service. Whether you decide to work with a professional or not make sure to do some research for yourself. It’s always a good idea to have the basic knowledge fully understood before jumping into one of the biggest negotiations of your life. Pam Pikkert is an Accredited Mortgage Professional with Dominion Lending Centres based in Red Deer, Alberta.
Coachmen Sportscoach 408DB
Home Away from Home!
Story & photos by Howard Elmer
2017 RV Preview
Each year at the dealer-only National RV Show in Louisville, I cover 30 to 40 kilometres of carpeted floor climbing in and out of every conceivable trailer looking for what’s new. Over those 2½ days, I can’t help but notice some common trends running through the construction and decor of the new units. This year I saw a few interesting things I’d like to share. First off, travel trailers are back in a big way. By contrast, fifth wheels were the overwhelming favourite of builders for a solid ten-year period, but starting about two years ago, I noted more conventional trailer designs on the floor. This year it’s obvious - but, within this group there is also another trend. Smaller, lighter weight and simple design. The entry-level end of the market is getting a lot of attention. By this, though, I don’t mean cheap. Instead, it appears to be an effort to push couples trailers and minimalist units that cater to people looking for an outdoor active lifestyle. The next innovation is not new at all. Bunkbeds. However, in family-type trailers, they are everywhere. The big changes are that they are being offered as double-bed bunks – some of which are motorized. Bunks are also found in slideouts. The bigger bathroom trend continues with more units offering one and a half baths, and the size increasing by placing the bath across the entire width of the trailer at the rear. Inside, I see more and more large showers – some up to 48-inches. Many include a built-in seat. A neat kitchen feature I saw in a few trailers was an elongated U-shaped dinette. This bench will easily seat six and the table is a longer rectangle, rather than square. Fifth-wheel builders continue to utilize air space more and more. By that I mean building the trailers taller. After all, commercial trailers MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
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2017 RV Preview have a height limit of 13-feet 6-inches, so why should a trailer builder hold to 12-feet? The extra height makes these units feel airy, and provides space for ceiling fans, hanging fixtures and more cupboard space. The number of motorized platforms continues to expand, with units now riding on chassis from Mercedes, Ford, Ram, Freightliner and GM. Diesel engines are now available in small displacements as well as large. The largest increase is coming in the Class B and B-plus models. On the other hand, Class C’s seem to be dying out, with almost nothing new at the show.
COACHMEN SPORTSCOACH 408DB
These are just some of the trends I noted on the Show floor in Louisville this year. Please enjoy this collection of what’s New for 2017 from the National RV Show.
Class A Coachmen Sportscoach 408DB This new Sportscoach features high-gloss finished woodwork and polished floors. Inside, it has more of everything. Two full bathrooms. Drop-down bunks in the slideout over the dinette. Three TVs and a massive double-sized refrigerator. Winnebago Vista 32YE This mid-range coach features a huge full-wall slideout, a cockpit drop bed, front swivel seats, a leather fold-out couch and large bath. Outside, there is also a kitchen and a TV.
WINNEBAGO VISTA 32YE
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Class B REV Group American Patriot Built on the Sprinter diesel chassis, it features a full wet bath, power rear bench for a bed, a raised roof, and TV and entertainment in the over-cockpit space.
REV GROUP AMERICAN Pleasureway Lexor TS This Pleasureway is built on the front-wheel drive Ram ProMaster chassis. Inside rear dimensions on this Lexor are wider than previously and it now offers a 2,000-watt inverter that will power the TV and the 110V plugs. It uses new lithium ion batteries.
THOR MOTOR COACH QUANTUM KM24
Class C Thor Motor Coach Quantum KM24 New Class C built on the Sprinter chassis with the 3.0L diesel engine. It features a walk-around Queenbed, a full-wall slideout, power awning, frameless windows and a built-in skylight over the cockpit.
PLEASUREWAY LEXOR TS MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
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2017 RV Preview
Travel Trailer PALOMINO 178 RK Palomino 178 RK Has a new molded nose with a large curved, tinted window. Inside there is a very decent sized bathroom and the rear kitchen features built-in fridge & microwave. The small slideout houses an unusually long dinette seat with a slim table. Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E141FK Small and compact, it weighs just 1,986 lb. Still, it’s well equipped with all the conveniences including shower, furnace, microwave, outside grille and roof-mounted solar prep.
FOREST RIVER FLAGSTAFF E-PRO E141FK
Jayco Hummingbird 17FD This is a two-person adventure trailer with raised floor built on a light aluminum frame. Its aggressive tires and short chassis earns it the title of Baja edition.
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MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
JAYCO HUMMINGBIRD 17FD
FOREST RIVER WILDCAT 28BH
Fifth Wheel Trailer Forest River Wildcat 28BH This mid-size fifth-wheel is all about family. It features a 40-inch shower with seat, double-bed bunks with storage setup and a privacy door. Kitchen is huge with a pantry and no carpet makes clean-up easy. Open Range 3X 387 RBS This trailer features a neat split pitch awning, handsome pointed nose and angled basement storage walls. The interior has a front lounge with three couches. Everything about this trailer is large – with five slides, 1½ baths, two entry doors and a dinette with windows on three sides.
OPEN RANGE 3X 387 RBS
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2017 RV Preview
ROCKWOOD HW A122BH
Pop-Up Trailer Rockwood HW A122BH Looks like a traditional pop-up, but it has hard walls which unfold electrically. A front dormer opens up more dinette space and on the hitch there is extra cargo space.
Truck Camper Lance 1172 The 1172 camper is for one-ton pickup trucks. It has two slideouts, a large dry bath and is actually very spacious thanks to that rearward slide and extra couch. Cirrus Nu-camp This lightweight camper is built for an 8-foot bed, but will be carried by a half-ton. Very modern looking with an aerodynamic nose and slick sidewalls.
CIRRUS NU-CAMP
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LANCE 1172
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GRiPTravel
by John Wilkinson
Mayne Island Mayne Island lies halfway between Vancouver Island and the lower mainland of British Columbia. With a land area of twenty square kilometers it is one of the larger southern Gulf Islands. Its population of around one thousand is a mixture of native islanders with an increasing number of newcomers, who have come for a more relaxed life-style. The climate is one of the mildest in Canada, with snow being rare. Summers are long and hot with an average temperature of 22°C. Winter temperatures average 8°C with an annual rainfall of 800mm. In the past agriculture was the dominant sector of the economy. This has been overtaken by tourism and the arts.
by the half or full day. Fishing boats can be chartered with rods and reels supplied for the excitement of fishing for pacific salmon.
Getting To Maine Island:
The island is very well served all year round by a variety of services. There are daily car and passenger boat ferry services operated by BC Ferries; with a ninety minute journey from Tsawwassen on the mainland, and from Swatz Bay on Vancouver Island with a journey taking fifty minutes. The island is also served by direct floatplane services into the island’s commercial centre at Miners Bay from Vancouver. These are run by Seair Seaplanes and by Salt Spring Air. The island is also serviced by the Gulf Islands Water Taxis. There is also a helipad on the island.
The delightful formal Japanese Garden at Dinner Bay with pond, bridges and waterfall were developed to commemorate the island’s former Japanese community which settled and farmed the island in the early twentieth century.
There are no marinas on Mayne Island, but there is a public dock at Miners Bay, which is often very busy with commercial craft, and a community dock at Horton Bay. There are sheltered anchorages in Bennett Bay, Campbell Bay and at Dinner Bay.
For shopping there are general grocery shops, trader stores, a hardware and builder’s store, a bakery and cafe on Village Bay Road, a seasonal weekly farmer’s market with local produce, a book shop with art supplies at Miners Bay, and the island’s large artist community supply gift shops selling crafts in glass, ceramic, wood and leather.
Attractions:
The island is one of nature’s gems, a scenic photographer’s paradise of native forests and rolling orchards, a place where time is slowed down and life can be lived at a different pace. It is part of the patch-work Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and will appeal to nature lovers with seals basking on its low cliffs, playful families of otters, frequent visits by orca whales to its protected waters and with over one hundred species of migratory sea-birds. There are also over two hundred species of wild flowers to be found on the island.
Activities:
There are beaches for swimming at Dinner Bay, Campbell Bay, Piggott Bay and Oyster Bay. Kayaks are available for hire to explore the sheltered waters around the island which are generally regarded as one of the best sea kayaking areas in the southern Gulf Islands. These operate out of Bennet Bay and can be guided or solo trips. Skippered cruising boats can also be hired 30
MAGAZINE - Summer 2017
Hiking on well mapped trails through lush, native forests of Douglas and Grand Fir, Western Red Cedar, Alder and Maple and walking through Mount Park Regional Park is a popular attraction. Bicycles and scooters may be hired for touring Mayne Island’s narrow and hilly roads. Several working farms are open to visitors with sheep, goats and pigs that the children will love. There are also two tennis courts on the island and a pitch and putt golf course at Dinner Bay Park.
Shopping and Dining:
There is water-front dining from restaurant terraces over-looking Bennet Bay and Miners Bay, with food ranging from pub grub to gourmet fare, and there are pubs with views over Navy Channel.
Services:
There is a combined primary and secondary school on Mayne Island with education to the 11th Grade. It also takes children of pre-school age. A doctor and nurse work from the Health Centre. The island also has a dental surgery. There is a public library housed in the island’s former lock-up.
Accommodations: There are a wide range of properties for rent on Mayne Island to suit all budgets. Houses, cottages and getaways are typically of wood frame construction or of log cabin style. Many will have attractive views of ocean and coves.
The natural beauty and unhurried pace of Mayne Island makes it an ideal destination for those looking to relax and enjoy all this destination gem has to offer!
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